Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
Leavenworth is the ideal choice for an overnight stay to explore the state’s history and appreciate modern attractions. From breakfast time until long after the sun goes down, the northeastern Kansas town has more than enough entertaining things to do including shopping, dining, and strolling the historic district.
There’s a lot to love about Leavenworth.
Located between Fort Leavenworth and Kansas City, the location was the first city of Kansas established in 1854. History runs deep in this part of the state. Buffalo Bill Cody spent time there as a youth.
Historic Fort Leavenworth is the oldest Army post in continuous existence west of the Missouri River. It played a key role in keeping the peace between Indian tribes and settlers heading west.
President Abraham Lincoln’s final speech in Kansas took place in Leavenworth during an overnight stay. (The steps are now located on the lawn of the Carroll Mansion.) 
Additionally, the Frontier Army Museum includes an exhibit about Lewis and Clark who made part of their expedition through Leavenworth. The gallery includes tools and military artifacts of the time. The Buffalo Soldier Monument is a must-see stop when tracing the history of the military.
Today, the town is a bustling community made up of welcoming folks. On a return trip to Leavenworth, I explored the best of the town’s attractions and overnight accommodations.
LODGING
Hampton Inn & Suites isn’t just another hotel chain. It is one of my top choices for places to stay for the price when searching out hotel accommodations. Not only do they have modern, clean facilities but they serve a full complimentary breakfast to guests. The Leavenworth location (405 Choctaw St.) also has some of the friendliest staff you’ll meet.
During my check-in, the front desk employee was kind and offered concierge services on the house. I was debating between a couple of restaurants for dinner and he helped make my decision an easy one.
My guest room was perfect. Spacious and comfortable, the in-room amenities included a refrigerator, microwave, and work center. Within walking distance of historic downtown, the view from my window showcased the town’s skyline.
The staff went above and beyond by gifting me a box of warm cookies, a welcomed surprise left in my room. I already felt at home in Leavenworth and I hadn’t even explored the town yet.
BREAKFAST
THE DEPOT
At the edge of the town’s 28-block historic downtown district is The Depot (781 Shawnee St.), an always-busy restaurant known for serving excellent breakfast and lunch classics. The eatery is located inside a beautifully restored Santa Fe train depot established in 1887. Voted Best Breakfast & Brunch, the place was filled with happy customers.
Walking the creaky wooden floors through one of several dining rooms, I eventually settled into a table. Tiffany lamps hung from the ceiling. Lace curtains flanked tall windows. Framed photographs of locomotives decorated the walls. It truly felt as if I was dining inside a train depot in the 1800s.
I ordered the Broken Yolk Sandwich made from eggs, bacon, and cheese from a menu listing hearty breakfast plates and a la carte items. As I looked at the plates of other guests, the portions were large. Satisfied with my choice, I knew I return to enjoy the Smoked Turkey Hash that I heard my server describing to another guest.
In the meantime, I snacked on the complimentary “duffin” before my meal arrived. The cinnamon and sugar breakfast bite is a part muffin, part donut, and all kinds of delicious.
They serve breakfast and lunch from 7 am-1:30 pm every day of the week. Like most businesses in Leavenworth, the family-owned restaurant offers a military discount. Go for breakfast, return for lunch, and if you’re feeling like a cocktail, ask about the drink special on the “Prohibition Ends at Last” card displayed on your table. Plan your visit and view The Depot’s hours here.
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
RIVERFRONT COMMUNITY CENTER
I discovered the Riverfront Community Center purely by accident when in search of my breakfast destination. The building once served as the Leavenworth Union Depot and was the center for transportation and commerce in town after its completion in 1888. Now, it’s where locals and visitors can use recreational facilities.
The lobby is a must-stop for history buffs who want to familiarize themselves with the town’s beginnings. A framed photograph of Colonel Henry Leavenworth hangs on the wall. He founded the town near the Missouri River and the military post known as Fort Leavenworth also known as “the post that opened the west.”
C.J. Gift Co.
Nearly all of the buildings located in downtown Leavenworth are historic architecture. C. J. Gift Co. (30 Delaware Street), a home decor boutique, is located in an old bank building.
While there are many boutiques and antique stores in the historic shopping district, I’m a repeat visitor of C.J. Gift Co. I never leave empty-handed.
If you’re in search of a gift for yourself or your best friend, stop here to pick up unique seasonal decor items, jewelry, or candles. Not sure what to buy the sports fan in your life? Their shelves are also stocked with collegiate gear. Because the town is the home of Fort Leavenworth, C.J. Gift Co. has home decor items specifically designed for military families.
The husband and wife team is incredibly friendly and helpful. During my visit, I wasn’t finding what I was looking for right away. Thinking she didn’t carry the particular item, she returned from the back of the store with exactly the kitchen decor item I wanted. Not only that, she packaged it up so it would travel home with me without breaking.
When in Leavenworth, make your way to the boutique to do a little shopping. Check their store hours and upcoming events here.
Z&M TWISTED VINEYARD & TASTING ROOM
Everywhere you turn in Leavenworth, there is a business or group that proudly supports the military. Z&M Twisted Vineyard & Tasting Room 620 Cherokee St.) is no different. They partner with Homegrown by Heroes and Farmer Veteran Coalition Kansas to produce locally sourced wine.
The veteran-owned and operated winery’s tasting room is centrally located downtown across from Hay Market Square. They are open for wine tastings and retail shopping. I chose a seat at the tasting room counter and ordered the Tasting of the Month, a flight of five selections.
The wines were tasty and worth trying, however, I appreciate the Mulled Wine the most for its spicy, seasonal flavor. All of the wines were unique, especially Hellfire, which is made with jalapeños providing surprising heat with each sip.
A flight lets you discover a wine that you appreciate the most – take home a bottle for your personal collection. They also sell jarred jellies and gifts for all of the wine lovers in your life. Plan a visit to the tasting room by viewing their hours here. Call head to book group visits and reserve space for events.
LUNCH
FIRST CITY CHEESE MARKET
If wine had a partner in crime, it would be cheese. Directly next door to Z&M Twisted Vineyard is First City Cheese Market (610 Cherokee St.). Walking into the shop is like stepping into heaven if you’re a cheese lover like me. Refrigerated cases are full of artisan cheese wheels, sausage, and samples ready for tasting.
Several business owners around town told me that I’d love the food at First City Cheese Market. Still feeling full from my mega breakfast, I ordered a grab-n-go charcuterie cup consisting of cheese, crackers, grapes, and nuts.
The staff makes gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches Tuesday-Saturday and serves a Soup of the Day. You can expect fine cheese stacked atop sandwiches like Gobble-Gobble made with smoked turkey or the Roast Beef Explosion prepared with cheddar cheese and spicy horseradish. Be sure to ask the staff about the monthly sandwich specials priced at $9.99/each.
Also a retail space stocked with top-of-the-line kitchen gadgets and specialty foods, shop First City Cheese Market for household essentials while waiting for your lunch to be prepared. They also sell 24 different whole bean coffees by the pound.
C.W. PARKER CAROUSEL MUSEUM
It’s been a long time since I feel the pure joy I experienced as a playful kid, but I felt it again at the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum (320 S. Esplanade St). Tucked away at the edge of downtown, a massive building is a home to a beautifully restored, fully operational carousel built in 1913.
With my feet kicked up and smiling with glee, I rode the carousel and felt like a kid again.
You can also take a ride on the carousel for the price of admission to the museum. Named one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, it has 24 horses, four chariots, and a Wurlitzer band organ donated by one of the town’s most famous residents and musicians, Melissa Etheridge.
Volunteers operate the museum and happily give guided tours to visitors. Parker started a career manufacturing amusement park rides including carousels. Also known as the “Carnival King,” he built his first carousel in 1892 and started the company two years later eventually moving it to Leavenworth. In fact, Leavenworth has produced more carousels than any other city in the world. He was a millionaire by age 30.
Perhaps you’ve ridden another one of his carousels at the Dickinson County Heritage Center in Abilene?
Opened in 2005, the museum tour begins with a 15-minute film in the theatre room to learn the history of Parker and his company. During my visit, a gracious volunteer took me on a tour of historical photos and pointed out the intricate work done by volunteers to bring the beauty of the carousel horses back to life.
The museum’s upstairs gallery is a showroom of historical photographs, carousel horses, and advertisements from 1850s amusement parks. (Pro Tip: Ask to see the woodshop where the work is down to restore each carousel horse.)
The facility is also home to two other carousels including the oldest known working American carousel. The Primitive Carousel (pictured below) is believed to have been made before the Civil War between 1850-1860. Each horse was made from eight pieces of wood.
I know you’ll smile ear-to-ear during your visit to the museum as well. The volunteers and I became instant friends. It’s a rewarding experience for the entire family.
Get a glimpse of what you can expect by watching this entertaining video or to plan your visit and view the museum’s hours, visit the Facebook page.
LEAVENWORTH LANDING PARK
Directly across the street from C.W. Parker Carousel Museum is the Leavenworth Landing Park (2 Cherokee St.). A quarter-mile parkway with beautiful landscaping along the Missouri River, visitors and locals can stroll the walkway with scenic views. If you’re lucky, you may spot an eagle in flight.
Symbolic sculptures reference riverboats, railroads, and wagon escorts. Scan the information kiosks along the trail to listen to an audio tour guide. Keep in mind, the park serves as the entrance to the Three-Mile-Creek Trail ideal for walking and biking no matter your skill level.
CARROLL MANSION
One of the top attractions in Leavenworth is the Carroll Mansion (1128 5th Ave.). The Queen Ann Victorian home is listed on the National Historic Register and is the oldest continuously operating museum in the county. Built in the 1880s, it is worth seeing up close for its beautiful stained glass windows, opulent furnishings, and hand-carved woodwork.
My guided tour was led by a member of the Leavenworth County Historical Society. Unlike some of the restored mansions I’ve toured in Kansas, this one was different because several families had lived in the mansion at different times prior to it becoming a museum.
The home itself had underground multiple expansions over the years. In fact, it was initially a farmhouse for the Foster family in 1858. Over the years each family added to its square footage.
Each room is filled with elegant antiques from the Victorian era. Large mirrors, long curtains that pooled up on the floor, and a Victrola are symbolic of the Victorian style of the time. I was silenced by the beauty of the study’s handcrafted built-in bookshelves and lavish fireplace. (Pro Tip: Look for the framed map of Leavenworth on the wall of the study.)
Guided tours take about an hour. Open Tuesday-Saturday, admission is $6 and worth every penny. Touring the mansion allows you to virtually step back in time when the town’s most prominent residents spent their wealth on lavish homes and furnishings. Be sure to ask about the dog statue situated on the front lawn. It’s a entertaining story.
Keep in mind that the town hosts a Historic Homes Tour at Fort Leavenworth in April if you want to combine both tours in one visit to town. Plan your visit to the Carroll Mansion here.
MELISSA ETHERIDGE’S CHILDHOOD HOME
Leavenworth is the hometown of singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge. She was born there and lived in the town until 1979. Many of her songs reference Kansas.
Out of curiosity, I drove to her childhood home (1902 Miami St.) to take a look at it. It was a modest middle-income neighborhood that included a nice park. If you decide to include the home as part of your Hometown Tour, download the brochure that details all 15 stops in Leavenworth here.
DINNER
LUIGI’S 418 ITALIAN RESTAURANT
After a full day of exploring Leavenworth, I was excited to dine at a restaurant that I had spied on social media and heard good things about, Luigi’s 418 (418 Cherokee). Even though I arrived during the onset of the dinner hour, the hostess was already greeting a short line of waiting customers. I opted for a seat at the bar for instant service.
The ambiance was sophisticated without trying too hard. Shelves of wine bottles decorated the wall near the bar. Seating encompassed the entire bar while patrons in the dining room sat at windows seats facing historic downtown.
All of your go-to Italian entree classics are available on the menu. I was warned the portions were big, and the bartender wasn’t kidding. Maybe I shouldn’t have eaten so much of the herbed garlic bread. It was irresistible.
The Picatta pasta arrived in an oversized bowl. Prepared with spaghetti and a white wine sauce, it was topped with copious amounts of capers, tomatoes, and a chicken.
I concluded my dining experience with a chilled glass of Lemoncello liqueur, which I’m told the owner makes herself. It’s essentially infused vodka. The traditionally Mediterranean drink is a staple in Italian households. I appreciated the smooth, authentic lemon flavor.
Sitting at the bar, I was privy to the hustle and bustle of the waitstaff. The phone rings constantly with to-go orders. Luigi’s 418 is a popular restaurant for a reason. The delicious food the courteous staff makes it one of the most highly recommended restaurants in town.
MORE PLACES TO VISIT
I retired to my hotel for the night all the while thinking of the places I look forward to visiting in Leavenworth given more time. Fort Leavenworth National Cemetary. Lewis and Clark Center. Leavenworth Antique Mall. Sis’ Sweets for a cupcake.
I certainly will return to Kansas’ “First City.” There are just too many things not to love about Leavenworth.
Made of Kansas limestone, the stunning hotel is where families stay when in town visiting students. KU alumni create memories on their wedding day at The Oread. It’s the premier hotel on the hill that Lawrence visitors should experience at least once.
The fourth-floor views from my 
The room amenities were equally as nice. The spacious room (400 sq ft) and walk-in shower were delightful. The fresh flowers and a personalized note welcoming me to the hotel were finishing touches that set The Oread apart from other hotels.
With a full day of exploration in store, I left The Oread and walked to the west side of campus in search of a bite to eat for breakfast. (Tip: When setting out to discover the perks of campus life, leave your car parked inside The Oread’s garage. Wear a pair of walking shoes and enjoy the surroundings.)
The menu features pastries, breakfast burritos and bowls, as well as snacks prepared fresh from an exposed kitchen space. I arrived between an influx of students so there wasn’t a line. With my order placed, I nestled into a comfy spot indoors with a view of the patio and passing students.
My Market Bowl was a healthy mix of scrambled eggs, shoestring potatoes, and sauteé vegetables. Topped with bacon and cheese, it hit the spot. If only I was still hungry, I would’ve ordered a cookie from the bakery counter. Next visit!
A long-time fan, I appreciated reading quotes from coaches and players displayed on the walls. Another exhibit worth viewing is “Game Changers,” which highlights the story of the game and the people who impacted its trajectory over time.
Why is a peach basket sitting next to him? “I showed them two peach baskets I’d nailed up at each end of the gym, and I told them the idea was to throw the ball into the opposing team’s peach basket,” he said. If I were you, I’d bring my camera to take a picture sitting next to the legend’s statue.
The Booth Hall of Athletics includes the KU Athletics Hall of Fame, artifacts from games of the past, trophies, and a historical timeline of moments in collegiate sports. For me, the best artifact on site is a section of the original center court floor from Allen Fieldhouse. The encircled “K” painted on wood planks marked and scuffed representing years of hard work and dedication to the game.
To fully understand the excitement surrounding Jayhawk basketball, you have to attend a game. However, the next best thing is touring Allen Fieldhouse named after “Phog” Allen, the program’s head coach for 39 years. To book a guided tour aka “The Jayhawk Experience” to gain access to the arena, call 785-588-4299.
An ideal place to listen to the jukebox between watching sports on TV, Johnny’s Tavern serves some of the best pizza in Lawrence. Some claim it is the best. They’re also known for serving the coldest pint of beer in town.
I ordered a slice of Great Bambino with pepperoni and a Blue Collar Lager by Free State Brewery made specifically for the restaurant. It’s the ideal collaboration since Johnny’s Tavern has been the go-to spot for hard-working folks for generations. The wedge salad came with crispy onion rings making it unique. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. The busy lunchtime crowd seemed to agree.
View Johnny’s Tavern hours and get a sneak peek of the menus 
As soon as you walk inside you are greeted by the early timeline of Dole’s life in Russell. From his early days working as a paperboy in Western Kansas to earning the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his military service, the museum’s collection includes notable artifacts. I enjoyed reading his personal quotes about his experience healing from war wounds and how it shaped his perspective on life.
You’ll also appreciate learning that the entire basement is the 
If you want to visit the Dole Institute of Politics located on KU’s west campus, check the hours of operation 
If you’re unable to travel to the museum, you can take a virtual tour of the 
The latest exhibition “Debut” showcases never-before-seen pieces of art. During my visit, a college class was given a tour by a docent who taught them about individual pieces.
Mammal skulls and taxidermy dominate much of the museum’s exhibits. Explore the glass cases to learn about the biodiversity of birds of prey and how they’ve adapted to life on the prairie. I imagine you won’t find a larger collection of waterfowl taxidermy elsewhere.
A high-quality museum, it is a place where visitors of all ages can explore nature from an indoor setting. Ask for Discover Guides at the front desk before starting your self-guided tour. They are ideal for families and each guide is tailored to a specific age group. To view the museum’s hours and plan your visit, check out their website 
I ordered the Charcuterie board that came with domestic and imported cured meats, olives, mustard, and crostini. Because it lacked artisan cheeses, I ordered a small plate of aged cheddar and soft cheese to accompany it. Paired with the Liquid Gold cocktail, it was delightfully appetizing. The rum-based drink was hand-crafted with pineapple, spices, apricot, and orange.
During my visit, I was met by the town’s top historian, Paul, who took me on a guided tour of Lecompton’s landmarks and businesses. It’s not every day that your tour guide is dressed as a reenactor or as the infamous Samuel Jones, a Douglas County sheriff who helped Lecompton play a role in the Bleeding Kansas conflict. This was going to be fun.
The meal was scrumptious and the menu prices were reasonable for the portion sizes. If you’re passing through northeast Kansas in route to Lawrence or Bonner Springs, stop by for a plate of pancakes, biscuits and sausage gravy, or breakfast sandwich. The lunch menu is just as appetizing. (View the cafe’s hours 
As Paul introduced me to the history of Lecompton, he pointed out the wall decorated with the town’s history “The Lecompton Swindle”. I quickly surmised that Lecompton was a town prideful about making its mark in history dating back to its founding in 1854.
Constitution Hall is listed as a National Landmark, Kansas Historic Site and was a finalist as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Built in 1856, it was the site where the Lecompton Constitution was written by pro-slavery advocates.
The famous document was rejected in the 1858 election. To learn more about how Kansas was eventually admitted to the Union as a free state on January 29, 1861, visit 
Of course, it was fitting that Paul had a key to the jail. He ushered me inside. After a few seconds of standing in the musty dark room, I was ready to exit. There was very little sunlit peeking through the iron window bars.
The story goes that Jones, a pro-slavery sheriff, was shot in the back by free state forces. He helped in the effort to burn down Lawrence, Kansas in 1856. His original tombstone was moved from Las Cruces, New Mexico, and sits on display in front of the jail.
The museum sits on the former 13-acre Lecompton capital square district and was constructed in 1855. The budget was $50,000, but eventually, the money ran out. When antislavery legislators gained control of the territorial legislature, the location of Kansas’ capital was moved to Topeka. This action was detrimental to the town. Later, the building became known as Lane University where reportedly seventy-five co-ed students studied there.
I’d recommend devoting about an hour of your time in town to tour the museum. Admission is free, but a $3 donation is kindly accepted. If you have questions about the artifacts in the cases, a volunteer is on hand to answer them for you. View the museum’s hours 
While Vickie prepped pumpkins for a future wine, Troy told that it takes six months from fermentation to bottling to produce a taste-worthy wine. Opened in January 2021, visitors can choose from four dry wines and 12 semi-sweet wines for a tasting flight.
Empty Nester’s Winery focuses on quality wine and excellent customer service. They host game night on Thursdays and invite a food truck to park out front on occasion. To view the winery’s hours and learn about entertaining events, view the 
Open since 2010, shoppers are greeted by Kathy and her employees with a warm smile and helped them find “goods for the journey.” It’s only appropriate that Kathy owns a store in the heart of Lecompton since she is a descendant of Albert G. Boone, one of the town’s founders. He was also a shopkeeper.
The store hosts flea market events on Elmore Street as well as Fabric Fridays. Kathy said she has plans to expand her business and bring in more sellers. Stay up-to-date on Bald Eagle Mercantile happenings 
Shoppers are surrounded by walls of colorful artwork and an abundance of handcrafted jewelry for sale. Rings resemble twisted metalwork. Earrings made from leather and beads dangle on display. Clay pots hold earrings and bracelets designed with care.
If you’re not able to make it to Lecompton, you can still shop the boutique online. C&C Clothing sells items live via Facebook every Thursday at 7pm. Never miss a moment of the shopping fun by following the Facebook page 
Completed last June, “Resilience” is a 60′ mural funded by donations to Lecompton Community Pride. Wright recently finished a painting of the former Lecompton High School, which is on display at the entrance to the building. Visit Wright’s 
Other visitors stop by to indulge in delicious burgers served fresh to order for each customer. When you visit, simply walk up to the counter meat counter and place your order. Once it’s finished, you can add burger toppings from the self-service salad bar nearby. My single cheeseburger was scrumptious. It alone was worth stopping at Kroegers to enjoy.
Did you learn something new about Kansas history? Perhaps you’ve already visited Lecompton? Share your comments below. I’d love to hear from you.
As I drove up to the building, I saw shoppers milling around a nearby business looking at furniture on display. Some people were exiting with full shopping bags while others were excitedly making their way inside. It was a thrift shop. Very cool.
The barista crafted the perfect chai latté for me. The cafe smelled of freshly baked peanut butter cookies while I sipped my drink and watched shoppers peruse the shelves. Quiche, homemade tarts, and cookies sat in the pastry case waiting for someone to enjoy. A line formed at the counter.
To my surprise, the cafe’s menu prices were quite reasonable. A brown sugar latte on the seasonal board was only $2. Considering they serve 
That’s a mission that I can get behind, and I’m sure you can as well. When in Topeka, consider driving to Judee’s Coffee for a breakfast treat before a morning of shopping. View the cafe’s hours 
The best way to appreciate the collections is to start in the Early People exhibit and work your way through to the museum to the Recent Past. Along the way, you’ll learn how Native Americans settled in areas of Kansas, the impact of the Civil War on the state’s people, and the tragic story of Bleeding Kansas.
The final exhibit features pop culture artifacts from the recent past. It’s an immersive experience. Sit down in the 1950s dinner. Gaze at the glass shadow boxes filled with fast food artifacts. Think back to the early days of Big Cheese Pizza and White Castle, NuWAY, and Pizza Hut. Which Kansas restaurant was your favorite as a child?
I started my tour of the historic district by ducking inside the 
Visitors also enjoy the quirky antique stores and inviting eateries that make up the restored neighborhood. You’ll likely need a couple of hours to truly shop the stores because each one is stocked full of collectibles and uniquely individual pieces. If you’re someone who drools over mid-century furniture, step inside of 
Street art and oversize murals make NOTO Arts & Entertainment District a must-stop. Notable murals include brightly colored scenes of animals, dreamscapes, and flowers. You’ll stop in your tracks when you see the building that doubles as a massive mosaic. It’s covered with intricately placed, tiny pieces of colored glass.
Famished from a morning of exploring the city, I dined on the Pennant Original Burger topped with everything with a side fries (don’t forget the truffle sauce for dipping). If you’re craving it, you’ll find it on the menu. Homemade chili three ways. Patty melts. Milkshakes topped with cupcakes and sprinkles. Most patrons leave the restaurant with a box because they don’t want to leave a bite behind.
The day Monroe Elementary School opened in 1927, it was was a racially segregated school. Parents of several students joined others in Topeka as plaintiffs in the Brown v. Board of Education lawsuit against the “separate but equal” doctrine, which was eventually ruled as a violation of the 14th Amendment by the United States Supreme Court.
Having been a product of the bussing system as a child in the 1980s and a high school teacher later in life, I felt chill bumps walking through Monroe Elementary School during my self-guided tour.
Visitors should start their tour inside the gymnasium to watch a 30-minute introductory film explaining the climate of the civil rights era and the case that ended legal segregation in public schools. Afterward, you can walk inside each classroom dedicated to the timeline of events. The upstairs is closed to visitors.
I was moved to tears as I watched videos of civil unrest. I imagined what it was like to be a student at Monroe Elementary School. A visit to the historic site is one that is well spent and it is certainly a memorable one.
If you have questions upon entering the school, I recommend asking the knowledgeable National Park Service ranger on site. To view the museum’s hours, plan you visit 
The building is over 100 years old, but you can’t tell from its up-to-date style. Hip furnishings with brass finishes are the backdrop for well-designed spaces throughout the hotel. My corner room had floor-to-ceiling windows that provided stunning views of downtown, especially at night when the skyline was aglow.
I found the in-room amenities to be exceptional. The interior design included built-in storage and an oversized desk. A frequent traveler, I appreciated the convenience of having a refrigerator, Keurig coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi access in the room. When it was time to retire for the night, I loved the luxurious bed linens. Cyrus Hotel considered every detail when designing a space for ultimate relaxation.
Hotels guests will appreciate the lounge with a fire pit in the courtyard. Ready for dinner and drinks? You don’t have to leave the hotel to find an excellent dining option. 
As I sat at the clothed table enjoying my meal and sipping on an espresso martini, I felt as if I had been transported outside of Kansas to New York City. To top off the experience, I indulged in an after-dinner drink, a classic Old Fashion. Swanky, indeed.
If you get the opportunity to choose your accommodations for an overnight stay in Topeka, I hope you’ll choose the Cyrus Hotel. Not only does it make for a comfortable stay in the heart of the city, but the amenities spoil you. Did I mention it is also pet-friendly and street parking is free from 5pm-9am? It just keeps getting better.
With more than enough to do in Topeka, an overnight stay is simply not enough time to experience it all. I look forward to visiting the 
PourHouse ICT has occupied much of the original Rock Island Train Depot building for the last four years. With 12 beers on tap brewed by 
But it gets better. Also a restaurant with a full kitchen, PourHouse ICT offers a full menu of delicious meal options. It’s the kind of place where the food is as good as the beer. My advice? Expect hearty portions but always leave room for another pint of beer.
A long-time fan of Walnut River Brewing Company’s beers, I look forward to drinking their year-round beers. During a recent visit, I couldn’t resist ordering a beer flight of four selections: Warbeard Irish Red, Teter Rock Kolsch, High Beam IPA, and a session IPA, Day Pass. What you’ll appreciate about their beer menu is that there is a lot of variety.
The chef-prepared menu at PourHouseICT is legit. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Start with an appetizing starter like the Sauce Flight. A cone of crispy fries or chips comes to the table surrounded by signature dipping sauces. The Coffee Porter Bacon Jam is the stuff dreams are made of. I could eat it with a spoon. Warbeard Queso comes in a close second for the top prize.
If you’re craving a burger, the Hatch Chile Burger is No. 1 in my book. The owners take the menu ingredients seriously often traveling hundreds of miles to bring hatch chiles to Wichita.
Add PourHouse ICT to your travel bucket list for its well-crafted beer selection and delicious food menu. The historic setting and view of Old Town make for the ultimate restaurant experience.
One of the perks of staying at the hotel is valet parking, which is the only way to park your car when at the hotel. It’s convenient and the valet staff works around the clock and always greets you with a smile. They’ll even give you advice about where to dine out in Aggieville if you ask. Don’t forget to tip the staff.
The rooms are well designed with plenty of room to enjoy one’s stay. My room included a couch (in KSU’s purple, of course!), a plush king bed, and in-room amenities including a refrigerator. With a view of campus, I could envision KSU families staying here when attending events on campus.
Other amenities you can expect while at Courtyard by Marriott include a fitness center open 24/7, a Starbucks coffee bar featuring small plate breakfast items, and an exquisite lounge with a gas fireplace. Order a cocktail or locally made craft beer at the bar and head to the outdoor patio for a pre-dinner drink.
A bit of nostalgia and a bit of class. the cafe’s interior transports you to aviation heaven. Navy blue walls, black and white prints of airplanes, and a cozy fireplace invite you to nestle up with a coffee in hand. Jazz music plays in the background.
I couldn’t leave without buying a gorgeous bracelet made with recycled magazine paper by women in Haiti. The owner of the company created the company after visiting the country and seeing poverty firsthand. Each purchase of Papillon jewelry supports at-risk mothers and fathers with full-time jobs in Haiti. How could I not buy it? View the store’s hours 
I was shocked at the reasonable prices. The racks, table, and shoe wall were stocked full of items I wanted to take home. You’ll appreciate the way the store is set up making selecting new apparel favorites easy. Start at the front of the store to peruse racks of new arrivals. But there’s more!
Make your way to the back to find everyday essentials and sale clothing. I can easily see why this store is popular with locals. It carries the latest looks perfect for women of every size and style. If you can’t make it to the store, you can shop online and ship it to you 
Shoppers on the hunt for home decor reminiscent of Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn will feel right at home at Furnish. The showroom is filled with neutral hues with black accents. Homeowners in search of lighting, chairs, and kitchenware are in luck.
The burning candle’s scent drew me to the shelf you see below. I was happy to see a candle that I’ve purchased many times in Wichita from Nectar Republic. Nearby, accessories ranging from picture frames to books completed the vignette.
The creaky floors and the perfectly illuminated framed artwork draws you in. Every wall of every room is adorned with artwork for sale that includes pottery. While some pieces deservedly command a higher price, I found many to be priced affordably for the casual shopper discovering new artwork.
As a native Kansan who spends countless hours driving across the state, I appreciate the works that featured the Kansas prairie. Landscapes by Kim Casebeer and Cristine Sundquist on display showed cloud-filled skies and the sun’s rays upon the flint hills. You’ll be impressed by the breadth and quality of the collections.
Since 1981, SNW Gallery has curated and displayed paintings, prints, drawings, mixed media, and more. Intricately designed jewelry is nestled near the register. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for someone else, you’re bound to walk away from SNW Gallery with a special piece.
Keep your eyes peeled during a visit to the brewery for tiny plastic dinosaurs. The mural on the back wall makes for a nice selfie backdrop. (Female Readers: During your self-guided tour of the brewing, make a point of checking out the bathroom. I’m going to leave it at that.)
As I sat at the bar and finished a Bodacious Blackberry Milkshake IPA, I learned that one of the top-selling drinks behind the bar wasn’t even a beer. It’s their house-made sangria.
Soon, Jake and I were joined at the bar. Brewers Garrett and Adam ponied grabbed a seat. Before I knew it, the four of us were walking a few doors down to 
The lunch crowd clearly loved El Patron as much as I did. They drew a good size crowd made up of downtown workers and tourists. Looking around the restaurant at the plates on the tables, people were devouring fajitas, burritos, and seafood entrees. El Patron is a solid choice for lunch or dinner. View their 
Under cloud-filled skies, I walked to the top of the gravel trail to peek out over the town. If you have time, I recommend making the easy drive only minutes west of Manhattan off of Kansas Highway 113. (Ask Siri or Google Maps to navigate it.) You get a 360-degree view of the college town. Dog walkers love it. Bike trails welcome cyclists. It’s a beautiful setting.
Visit the statue to stand in awe and read about the KSU professor, Dr. George Filinger who invented the fictional character to honor the town’s 100th anniversary of its founding. The park includes a swimming pool, splash pad, and playground equipment perfect for a family visit.
The football field was covered with marching band members moving in formation and playing an energizing song. The band’s director shouted from a megaphone “Remember guys, we could make it to the bowl game. Again!”
No matter what alma mater you hail from, you need to tour the beautiful KSU campus.
With the game on TV, I wanted chicken wings. They arrived piping hot. The sauce had a medium heat and the blue cheese dressing cooled it off. While it wasn’t an entree, it hit the spot. Kite’s Aggieville is a good place to visit for what I thought was the coldest beer in town. You’ll appreciate the cloth napkins and the elevated menu. View the location and hours 
