Arkansas City

This border town is famous as the main jumping-off place for the Land Rush 0f 1893, when the Cherokee Strip was opened for settlement.  The Cherokee Strip Museum displays artifacts and documents from that time in history.  Diverse architecture, a large arts community, historical buildings, and many festivals and events make Ark City a fun and friendly place to visit.  Natural Kansas at its best can be experienced at nearby Chaplin Nature Center, and over 17 parks and a large community swimming pool are enjoyed by many residents.

Atlanta

Founded as a railroad cattle-shipping point, this small Kansas town played a prominent role in the early oil boom.  Main Street Atlanta stands as an example of the resiliency and determination of Cowley County people.  Visitors should look for the Caboose museum and old stone arch bridges and barns.

Burden

The railroad gave life to Burden, a feisty community whose character also is rooted in its cowboy past.  Broad, fertile fields andlush green pastures helped make the small town a productive and prosperous agricultural community.  Burden honors the cowboy with the Eastern Cowley county Fair and Professional Rodeo.  They are proud of their historical State Bank building and other refurbished buildings.

Cambridge

Formed in 1880 when the railroad came to the area, Cambridge overlooks beautiful Cedar Creek, and the residents still reflect the pioneer faith that sustained early settlers. The Stockman's Cafe guarantees a good home-cooked meal, and residents come together annually for an old-fashioned Easter Sunrise Service held atop one of the lower Flint Hills.

Dexter

Dexter's graceful manner conceals its exciting past, including a bank robbery by the infamous Dalton gang, andthe discovery of helium in 1903.  Henry's Candy Factory now draws visitors by the busload.

Udall

Tragedy blew Udall to prominence when a devastating twister leveled the town.  A monument commemorates the storm and the lives that were lost.  The residents are proud of their collaborative efforts to rebuild and become even better.

Winfield

Rated number 56 in The 100 Best Small Towns in America, Winfield, the county seat of Cowley County, is a beautiful, prosperous town on the banks of the Walnut River in southern Kansas.  It has enjoyed  a rich history since Coronado camped here in 1542 looking for Cibola, the seven cities of gold.  Winfield is also known as the Mural Capital of Kansas, and is an exciting place to visit, shop and play.  The downtown shopping area is alive and flourishing, and special events draw people into this small town atmosphere for a chance to "get away from it all."  The world famous Walnut Valley Music Festival, held the third weekend in September, is just one of the many Winfield events held annually.  Whether it's the history,  antiques, art, or recreation that brings you to Winfield, once you're here you'll discover a relaxed and friendly town that you'll want to experience again and again.