Dodge City Again Honored as Top True Western Town

By Dodge City CVB on January 26, 2023

Dodge City stands as an icon of the American west. It has been called home by some of the most legendary lawmen and outlaws. That pedigree resulted in one the most beloved western television programs in history, Gunsmoke, being set in Dodge City. That remarkable history has been kept alive, giving visitors a glimpse of what life was really like in the West. That is one of the reasons Dodge City is honored as #5 among True West Magazine’s 2023 Top Western Towns.

“Our industry partners create unforgettable experiences that connect visitors to our history,” said Megan Welsh, director of the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Whether honoring real legends of the west like Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson or the imaginary heroes of Gunsmoke their efforts to celebrate our heritage draws thousands of visitors to Dodge City every year.”

The criteria used by the editors of True West Magazine in making their selection of honorees include preservation of its history through old buildings, museums, and other institutions, events, and promotion of historic resources.

“Dodge City is one of the great names in Old West history—and one that lives even today,” says True West Executive Editor Bob Boze Bell.   “The local residents have done an amazing job in preserving this history and presenting it to the world. There’s no question: Dodge City is a Top True Western Town.”

Dodge City and other honorees will be featured in the February/March 2023 issue of True West available on February 14, 2023. This issue marks the 18th year True West has presented this annual award.