To the Curious,
What is it that sets us apart? From friendly faces to unexpected places, we invite you to explore the Friendliest Small Town in the U.S.! To the movement, to the culture, to the courageous, to the service, to the entertainment, to the past, to the artistic, to the seekers, to the stories…come and see.
Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, in the center of North Central Kansas, Concordia is rich in attractions and stories untold.
The National Orphan Train Complex Museum tells the story of a nationwide movement that changed the lives of more than 250,000 children riding Orphan Trains across the U.S. from New York. Their lives are remembered through a Statue Stroll encompassing over 45 bronze statues scattered around Cloud County.
Colonel Napolean Bonaparte Brown had a vision of community that grew into a cultural centerpiece called the Brown Grand Theatre. The rail lines brought traveling troupes and visitors from near and far. Today the facility is fully restored to its 1907 grandeur.
The stories from WWII German POW Camp Concordia give insight into the courageous, conscripted soldiers, who found an unexpected peaceful home during a time of atrocities in Europe. Over 4000 soldiers found safety and opportunities working for local farmers, while expressing artistic talents. Some completed college degrees.
Religious women, dedicated to service wherever there is a need, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia, Kansas, call the historic 5 story Nazareth Motherhouse home. When welcomed into the Motherhouse, one feels the love and compassion the Sisters have for people throughout the world.
The Concordia Broadway Plaza, located in the heart of downtown, is our premier entertainment venue. A giant LED screen, greenspace, picnic tables, concession stand, and a splash pad for those hot summer days, provide a space for the community to gather.
Authentic stories about Concordia and people who touched a nation are preserved at the Cloud County Historical Society Museum, a former Carnegie Library. Immerse yourself in history retold. Ma Barker gang’s bank robbery, a troubled conspiracist who shot President Lincoln’s assassin, a female journalist who stood among legendary giants, and people at the forefront of flight, bring the past alive!
The Whole Wall Mural, created using 6,400 twenty-six pound bricks, is the largest hand carved brick mural in the U.S. and is a 140 ft. artistic masterpiece. Created by 2 female artists, telling a story of Cloud County, there’s much to discover on this “Queen Mother” of murals.
The Frank Carlson Library is the place for seekers of knowledge. Aside from its stacks of books, you’ll find engaging children’s programs, events, and a room dedicated to the life and service of Senator Frank Carlson, the 30th governor of Kansas, Kansas State Representative, United States Representative, and United States Senator from Kansas. Carlson is the only Kansan to have held all four offices. His stories, stories to spark imagination, and a wealth of information, are kept alive inside the Frank Carlson Library.
The Friendliest Small Town in the U.S. welcomes you!
To the Stars,
Concordia, Kansas
Published on the Travel, Taste, & Tour website 12/2023
Concordia, Kansas is the Friendliest Small Town in the U.S. – Travel Taste and Tour Magazine
