Quiet streets and leafy parks surround a lively downtown in Lamar
Lamar’s historic town square is anchored by a brick courthouse built in 1856 and surrounded by rows of old storefronts. With plenty of local shops, eateries and events, it’s a central gathering place for the town’s 4,300 residents. “The square is pretty quiet during the week, but it fills up when there’s an event, and there are a lot of local events,” says Pauletta Orahood of the Barton County Historical Society, a longtime city resident.
Outside the downtown district, walkable, leafy streets are dotted with early- and mid-20th century homes, community parks and local monuments and memorials. “It’s a friendly town. Not too big, not too small. And it’s full of history,” Orahood says. “Wyatt Earp started his law career here. President Harry Truman was born here. We had three military admirals who were born here. For a small town, it’s really something.”
Older homes with large lots near downtown
Lamar is laid out on a traditional, flat street grid lined with sidewalks, mature trees and lots with generous setbacks. Ranch-style homes, cottages and Craftsman houses can all be found here, most of which date back at least 50 years. Some older homes may need fixing up, while others have been well maintained and upgraded. Lots are typically large, offering plenty of privacy and space for gardens. Large farm properties, newer homes and rural homes are found farther out from the town center. Prices range from around $100,000 to $320,000, depending on size, age and condition.
Historic theaters and hometown favorites for dining out
The city has more than a few shopping and dining destinations, so residents won’t have to travel for the essentials. Tractor’s BBQ and Grill is a local favorite for smoked meats, sandwiches, sides and fixings, while El Caballo De Oro offers up Mexican staples like tacos, burritos and enchiladas. Those searching for something sweet can make a pitstop at Daylight Donuts or pick up coffee and pastries from The Grind Coffee Shop. Worden’s Meat offers a wide selection of meats, from beef and bacon to brats, chicken sausage and pork chops. There are two historical movie theaters in town — the Plaza Theater, built in 1934, and the Barco Drive-In, a rural drive-in theater built in 1950. Groceries and everyday essentials are available at Walmart and Dollar General.
Truman Day and Fallfest honor Lamar’s famous residents
Annual events celebrate holidays and history. “We have Wyatt Earp Fallfest in October. He was the town constable before he headed west. And there’s Truman Day in May when we celebrate Truman’s birthday,” Orahood says. Among the largest events is the Lamar Free Fair, billed as the state’s largest, which takes place in the town square every August. It brings out thousands of visitors for carnival rides, parades and a livestock show.
City parks offer lakes, trails, playgrounds and ball fields
Parks are a major perk for Lamar locals, with two lakes and plenty of green space. The largest is Lamar City Park, a sprawling park surrounding a popular fishing lake with walking trails, playgrounds, a dog park, picnic areas and baseball diamonds. Wyatt Earp Park sits near the center of town, across the street from the courthouse, and hosts local events like the annual Christmas Parade and Christmas lighting. Thiebaud Auditorium is right up the street, a public event venue that holds holiday events, pageants, banquets and reunions.
High school football brings the community together on game nights
Young students start at East Primary School, which serves kindergarten through second grade, West Elementary School, which serves third through fifth grade, and Lamar Middle School. All three schools earn B-minus ratings from Niche. The last four years can be spent at Lamar High School, which gets a C-plus. The high school’s championship-winning football team brings the community together for home games. The team has won the state championship more than 15 times, most recently in 2023 and 2024. “We’ve got some great schools. The football team has a pretty big following here,” Orahood says.
Driving is essential for errands, commuting and medical care
Lamar’s residential streets, especially those closest to the town square, are walkable and bikeable. The city doesn’t have public transportation, however, so residents will need a car for errands and commuting. Interstate 49 runs along the city’s western edge, offering a route to Joplin, about 40 miles south, while Pittsburg, Kansas, is about 28 miles west. Mercy Hospital Pittsburg, about 30 miles away, is the nearest medical center. The Joplin Regional Airport is 35 miles away.
