“Valkommen to the City of Lindsborg!” Consider this your warm welcome from ‘Little Sweden USA’ located right here in our home state of Kansas! Founded by Swedish immigrants in 1868, the town of Lindsborg is known for its iconic Herd of Wild Dala Horses ‘roaming freely’ throughout the town and its wealth of Swedish-inspired experiences.
One of Lindsborg’s most notable festivals, which occurs every other year is Svensk Hyllningsfest, and is next taking place on October 13-14, 2023. This biennial celebration honors the Swedish immigrants who settled in the Smoky Valley in 1869. Started in 1941, the festival features traditional arts and craft activities, ethnic music and folk dancing, entertainment, a parade, delicious food, and most importantly the famous smörgåsbord, aka Scandinavian feast!
For a small taste of Scandinavian culture a mere road trip away, enjoy perusing our top picks to explore this weekend getaway!
Where to Stay:
The Roseberg House: Located conveniently across the street from downtown, this charming Victorian home dates back to 1885 and serves as Lindsborg’s most colorful bed & breakfast, complete with modern amenities.
Local Eats:
Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop & Roastery: This historical, rustic coffeehouse transformed from a blacksmith shop offers locally roasted and delicious drinks, a warm ambiance, and breakfast and lunch menus to pair with beautifully packaged coffee beans to take home.
Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream: Oozing all the Swedish architectural charm and offering homemade flavors like Lingonberry Swirl and Snickerdoodle, take a break from your exploration and indulge in a few scoops of rotating flavors or grab an ice cream sandwich to go.
The White Peacock: Lindsborg’s organic, quiet, and ‘quirky’ coffee shop offers an extensive menu of caffeinated drinks and more, such as S’mores Mocha, Italian Soda, and Frozen Hot Chocolate. Pair with a selection from their delicious cafe breakfast and lunch menus.
Beer & Cocktails:
ÖL STUGA: This legendary local tavern established in 1977 is known for beer, wine, cocktails and deli sandwiches. The Ol Stuga is the gem of Lindsborg, Kansas with a rich history full of community and traditions.
Local Destinations:
Wild Dala Horses: One of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Customs, these creatively painted works of art are iconic to Lindsborg and make for the perfect photo opportunity. Each Dala horse is uniquely painted and can be found all around town.
Hemslojd: This Scandinavian gift store and workshop crafts and personalizes Dala Horse-shaped souvenirs along with handcrafting other Swedish-style glass and wood items, including custom etched glassware, plaques and ornaments.
Coronado Heights Castle: Receiving its name from Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, who visited central Kansas in 1541 looking for the Native American community of Quivira, it was here he was told "trees hung with golden bells and ... pots and pans were beaten gold."
