We have a lot of large roadside attractions to see around Kansas, but not usually attractions that are part of the town or including streets. Today’s destination isn’t something flashy like a billboard or giant easel, but it’s historic and full of color. After all these years, this small town in Kansas still holds the title of the largest town square in the US is here in Kansas, hopefully to stay that way forever. Let’s go check it out!
Welcome to Iola, a small town in southeast Kansas with just under 6,000 residents that’s one of our favorite towns to visit. Even during a visit, you might not know that this unique attraction has been hiding in plain sight all along.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
What you see here is the largest downtown courthouse square in the country, all in one piece and surrounded by beautifully colored historic buildings.
City of Iola, Kansas Facebook
Local businesses, restaurants, and plenty of other shops line this historic and large town square, with buildings painted in every color. Iola was founded in 1859.
Thrive Allen County/Wikimedia Commons
Although there have been other large town squares, none have been all in one piece, with no roads bisecting them until Iola. During your visit, enjoy the informational plaques around the square as well as all those shops on either side.
Gregory Pennett/Google
They used to have trolleys running through the town up until the 1920s, and you can imagine how busy the square must have been in its heyday. We’ve heard tales of a very fun “Fearless Fred Trolley Tour” that runs through the town retelling local history, if you’re inclined to. To check avaliability and schedule, they ask that you call 620.365.5252. Trolley or not, keep Iola in mind for your next road trip!
Jasperdo/Flickr
You’ll find Iola in southeast Kansas, east from El Dorado, or south from Lawrence.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
City of Iola, Kansas Facebook
Thrive Allen County/Wikimedia Commons
Gregory Pennett/Google
Jasperdo/Flickr
Kansas may be home to the largest downtown square in the country, but did you know it’s also home to the largest mural (by a single artist) in the whole world?
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