Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Wichita Park and Recreation. All opinions are mine, and I took the photos unless otherwise noted.
Discover the beautiful benches installed in many of Wichita’s parks. Each one, painted by artist Heather Byers, portrays one or more prominent community figures. As a Wichita native, I’m proud to see this beautification project added to the parks.
A prolific Wichita-based muralist, Byers approached the Wichita Parks Foundation with the idea of the benches. Located in multiple parks across the city, eleven benches enhance the parks and serve as a conversation starter about the city’s historical people.
NORTHEAST
CHISHOLM CREEK PARK NORTH N. Woodlawn Between K-96 and 37th Street
Background: This particular bench features known for his wildlife photography, Wichitan Bob Gress served as the former director of the Great Plains Nature Center. He is credited with also creating the Wichita Wild urban nature education program within the parks department, and his photos have appeared in over 60 books.
In 2015, Gress said, “If people at least understand what’s going on out there and how important it is, maybe they’ll come to appreciate it and want to protect it and maybe change their own behavior to improve the situation.” (Source: The Wichita Eagle)
Where To Find It: The parking lot to access the park is located west of Woodlawn and North of K-96. Take the far north trail from the west parking lot. The bench is located a short walk from the trail’s entrance.
FAIRMOUNT PARK 1647 N. Yale Blvd.
Background: Located near Wichita State University, the bench features Dan and Frank Carney, who were business students. The brothers founded Pizza Hut in Wichita with a $600 donation from their mom in a tiny brick building located initially at Kellogg and Bluff. The Original Pizza Hut Museum is open for self-guided tours on the WSU campus Monday-Friday.\
In 1958, the budding entrepreneurs grew the company from a humble start-up business to one of the world’s biggest, most well-known restaurant companies. Today, the company’s net worth is worth over $810 billion.
Where To Find It: Walk to the north side of the park near the splash pads and playground equipment.
SOUTHEAST
HARRISON PARK 1300 S. Webb Rd.
Background: The bench showcases Dr. Donna Sweet, Primary Care and Internal Medicine Physician at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita. At her clinic, she has an HIV program using federal Ryan White Parts B, C, and D funds and cares for approximately 1,300 patients with HIV.
She was awarded an honorary doctorate from Wichita State University in recognition of her 35 years of service to patients with HIV/AIDS and her contributions to health care as a clinical educator. (Source: KU Internal Medicine Wichita.)
Where To Find It: Near the playground equipment and the splash pad
BOSTON PARK 6655 E. Zimmerly St.
Background: William Lear, Sr., Clyde Cessna, Lloyd Stearman, and Walter Beech are the stars of Boston Park’s bench noted for their contributions to the Air Capital of the World Each one founded an aircraft company that helped Wichita become a dominating force in the aviation industry.
Located a short distance from Cessna Aircraft, Colonel James Jabara Airport, and Beechcraft by Textron Aviation, the park is an excellent spot to watch aircraft pass overhead.
Where to Find It: Near playground equipment and the splash pad
EAST CESSNA PARK 6115 E. Mount Vernon Rd.
Background: The McConnell brothers, Fred, Thomas, and Edwin, were born in Wichita and joined the United States Army Air Corps. McConnell Air Force Base, located near East Cessna Park, is named after them to honor their contributions while serving in the military during WWII.
The city was designated an American World War II Heritage City in 2022. Wichita was considered a “boom town” when it produced planes at an exponential rate during this time.
Where To Find It: Near the playground equipment
PLANEVIW PARK 2819 Fees St.
Background: Joyland Amusement Park, Chance Rides, and Ottaway Amusement Company are represented on Planeview Park’s bench because each added to the city’s entertainment factor. Whether manufacturing carnival rides or serving as a hub for fun, Wichitans can thank these companies for their contributions.
Today, Chance Rides is the only one of the three businesses still in operation, producing roller coasters, rides, and park trains.
Where To Find It: Near playground equipment
SOUTH
ALEY PARK 1803 S. Seneca St.
Background: The bench’s visuals were inspired by the Chisholm Trail since Wichita was part of the cattle drive route from Texas through Kansas in the 1860s. Jesse Chisholm, of Scottish-Cherokee ancestry, built trade relationships with the Wichita, Kiowa, Comanche, and Osage native tribes.
He laid out the trail between his trading post at the mouth of the Little Arkansas River to the Indian territory that extended northward to Abilene, Kansas. Cowboys pushed cattle herds through town and across the river near the Douglas Street Bridge.
His buddies, Buffalo Bill Mathewson, James R. Mead, and William Greiffenstein, were fellow civic leaders who helped establish the city of Wichita.
Where To Find It: Near playground equipment within walking distance of a Keeper on Parade, also painted by Byers.
WEST
BUFFALO PARK 10201 W. Hartner Ave.
Background: Former Wichita State University basketball player, Dave Stallworth, is highlighted on the bench in honor of his record-setting three seasons on the team. He went on to play for the New York Knicks and the Baltimore/Capital Bullets.
Stallworth learned he was selected by the New York Knicks the same day he was about to play a pickup game on the WSU campus.
Nicknamed “The Rave,” the 6-7 forward averaged 24.3 points in four seasons at WSU and helped lead the team to their first NCAA appearance in 1964.
Where To Find It: Near playground equipment on the west side of the park
WESTLINK PARK 736 N. Caddy Ln.
Background: Westlink Park’s bench honors Wichita-born Robert Gates, who served as the director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 1991-1993, secretary of defense for President George W. Bush from 2006-2011, and was retained by President Barack Obama.
The highly decorated leader earned the National Security Medal, the President’s Citizens Medal, National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal (twice), and the Distinguished Intelligence Medal (three times).
Where To Find It: Near playground equipment and water fountain
SOUTHWEST
OSAGE PARK 2121 W. 31st St. S.
Background: Wichita-born Jim Lehrer was a respected, award-winning journalist who earned his journalism degree at the University of Missouri.
Lehrer, who started working in newspapers and moved on to broadcast news, earned the distinction of Distinguished Kansan of the Year in 1990 and was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame in 1999.
He worked as a longtime PBS news anchor, moderated over a dozen presidential debates, and authored novels.
Where To Find It: Near playground equipment
DOWNTOWN
EMPORIA PARK 1143 N. Emporia Ave.
Carry A. Nation, a women-led Temperance Movement member, entered The Carey Hotel and began her saloon-wrecking brigade. Her plight on December 27, 1900? To keep people from selling and consuming alcoholic beverages.
Known for carrying a hatchet, she used a rock to destroy a $300 painting, Cleopatra at the Bath, on the wall of the hotel’s bar. Local artist John Noble painted it.
Her tirades continued for years. Eventually, she was jailed many times before dying in Leavenworth, Kansas, on June 9, 1911.
I appreciate that Wichita Park and Recreation, in partnership with Byers, decided to beautify the city’s parks with artistic benches that beautify the surroundings and showcase Wichita’s history makers. Byer’s use of vibrant colors, the Wichita flag, and the city’s abbreviated name, ICT, make them symbolic.
Join the fun! Track them down and tag @OneDelightfuLife and @wichitaparkandrec on Instagram when you post your photos. Use Wichita Park and Recreation’s bench directory to learn more about each.
If you’re interested in learning more things to do and see in Wichita, view my book page, which includes helpful guides to attractions and dining.
A blanket and velvety pillows gave the living room space a homey feel, which was delightful. Hotels are great, but sometimes you prefer a comfortable stay with amenities like home, and the Charlotte Retreat delivered.
Taking advantage of the flatscreen TV with access to streaming channels, we relaxed on the leather couch, watching the morning news with fresh coffee before departing for a day in the city. The bar included fresh ground coffee for the Keurig machine or French press.
The kitchen had all the utensils needed to prepare a basic meal, and the spice rack included essential seasonings. Although it lacked a dishwasher, it didn’t matter as we didn’t have many dishes to do because we ate our meals at area restaurants.
The bedroom included a pillowy-soft, queen-sized bed. Flanked by two reading lights and an end table, it was a great place to kick back and enjoy a book or admire nature from the sliding glass door view.
A full bathroom with a tub and shower included Tommy Bahama bath products. A nearby laundry room came equipped with basic laundry supplies for extended-stay travelers. The bedroom closet and dresser drawer provided enough storage for our belongings.
Although we saw neighboring homes’ residents come and go, they did not disturb the peaceful tranquility of enjoying the patio. We sat for hours watching the entertaining squirrels traverse up and down the trees while a cottontail bunny curiously checked out the neighbor’s garden.
Although the house was sandwiched between two more significant properties, it feels secluded because of its deep front yard and leading walkway. The neighborhood is well-kept and safe. We never heard the sound of traffic or neighborhood activity.
We enjoyed watching the sun’s rays move on the front lawn as the sun set overhead. A feeling of serenity and restfulness comes over us. Grateful for the calmness, we retired to bed.
I can’t recommend staying at Cozy in KC’s The Charlotte Retreat enough. It’s the ideal lodging for an individual’s or couple’s weekend stay. View the
Opened in 2020, the cafe delivered island vibes with brightly painted walls and decorations. The owners consider the space a “tropical coffee shop” where everyone is welcome.
We ordered bagels and steaming cups of espresso for breakfast – reasonably priced for the quality. If you’re seeking breakfast options, the menu’s Chori Pap, French Toast, Acai Bowl, or Egg Breakfast wraps are wow-worthy.
The whimsical mural outside the building and outdoor patio seating drew us to the cafe. Inside, the place was bustling with morning patrons ordering specialty coffee drinks and traditional drip espresso.
PRO TIP: Consider ordering a homemade menu of biscuits or a breakfast sandwich prepared with local ingredients. Gluten-free Hotcake Breakfast Sandwich is an option for those who require it.
The standard breakfast classics are served elevated with inventive ingredients. We shared the Kimchi Spice Bloody Mary while our Garden Harvest Omelet and Habanero Pork Belly Benny were prepared. The food was delectable, and there wasn’t a bite left when we asked for the check.
Known for its espresso concoctions and baked goods, the coffee shop stays busy serving customers who sit indoors and often opt to watch passersby from the outdoor patio.
We ordered a two-meat combo platter with ribs, brisket, burnt ends, and two southern-style sides, The Holy Trinity. Just as you would expect, the smoked meats were tasty, true to the city’s reputation for barbecue.
The place is wild. It’s where you dine when you’re in the mood for delicious non-traditional pizza, burgers, and wings prepared with inventive, extreme ingredients.
We enjoyed sipping craft beer while watching the clouds roll in from our perch over the metro. Music played indie rock, and the vibe was relaxed. Couples and small groups kept to themselves, soaking up the scene.
PRO TIP: Check the 
The shop smelled of freshly-made waffle cones. As I went to pay for my double scoop of Cereal Milk and Cinnamon ice cream, a friendly couple offered to buy it for me. Grateful, I resisted but thanked them for their kindness. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is as sweet as the customers there.
PRO TIP: While the flavor offerings often change, preview 
Note: This is a barcade, so only patrons ages 21+ are allowed.
Whether you’re hoping to buy artisan skin care supplies at Soap Bar, indie home goods from Mid Coast Modern, or colorful dinnerware at Pryde’s Kitchen & Necessities, you are sure to fill your shopping bags.
The sounds of falling water and birds are the only sounds you hear. However, you may notice one or two visitors sitting in shaded areas amongst flowering shrubs and vines; the setting’s tranquility envelopes you.
We felt like we had the gardens to ourselves, stopping only to say hello and thank a master garden for their hard work. Free to explore, the public is welcome as long as they appreciate the rules posted at the entrance.
Pause as you view 48 streams of water falling into the basin around the statuary representing firefighters at work. A nearby memorial displays the etched names of the fallen firefighters.
At Union Station, you’ll appreciate its Science City, 3-D movie theater, restaurant, shops, Gottlieb Planetarium, and gift shops. The building’s architecture alone is worthy of your time.
Historically known as the birthplace of female aviator Amelia Earhart, Atchison is a thriving town once home to Kanza Indians. Lewis & Clark explored the area in 1804. Later, it became a hub for steamboats, railroads, and manufacturing.
In 1870, the Atchison railroad served as a learning rail town in the state, but times changed. The last Santa Fe train left town in the early 1990s, but the museum’s inventory of authentic artifacts keeps history alive.
I started the self-guided tour by watching a computer-generated video of Amelia Earhart welcoming guests. The life-like pilot spoke in quotable phrases inspiring museum-goers to go after their dreams.
The Virtual Reality Flight experience was worth the added time and ticketed cost. Donning a headset and using an airplane’s yoke, I attempted Amelia’s historic 1932 flight across the Atlantic Ocean. I didn’t make it to Paris, but I did land the plane safely in a farmer’s field.
A gift to his wife, Evah, the mansion features 25 rooms filled with period antiques, including an 1893 World’s Fair bedroom set, elaborate stained glass windows, and high-quality furnishings.
Walking the rest of the home’s interior, you’ll discover a 200-year-old walking wheel winder used to spin yarn wool. The parlor’s upholstered, open-arm couches with dark wood and framed artwork showcase the luxury the Hetherington family enjoyed.
Outdoors, an elaborate driveway leads to a restored carriage house that begs to be photographed.
The Evah Cray Museum is more than another stunning home in Kansas. It’s a time capsule from the past when a family decided to settle in Atchison and live in the home for 80 years. Given their wealth, they could have chosen to reside anywhere. They chose Atchison.
My tour, led by the museum’s docent, was exceptional. Expect to pay a moderate admission if you go, and you’ll want to plan to spend at least an hour touring the home.
PRO TIP: Ask about the home’s small theater, where you can watch a film about Atchison architecture. Visit the gift shop in the carriage house.
The 14-room home served as a showroom to display the types of wood his business provided and the intricate ways it could be used. You’ll notice he combined oak, walnut, and mahogany into its design from floor to ceiling. He incorporated non-traditional wall materials like leather into the wallboard design.
The cafe is where locals meet to catch up about the latest happenings in town. Where travelers like me enjoy quiet time and peruse the internet using free Wi-FI. And where you can shop for gift items from kitchen towels to home decor.
You’ll find the comfortable cafe is just what you need to set the tone for the day. The menu features freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee drinks. Return mid-day for a Signature Cocktail like The Atchison Mule of Amelia’s Final Flight.
Between bites, I enjoyed learning about Ann’s heritage, which included the Lopez & Vallejo families’ tradition of serving the community delicious food and treating customers “like a part of the family.”
I took my friend’s advice and chose the carbonara prepared with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce over spaghetti. You can expect Italian pasta dishes, shareable plates (crab cakes, anyone?), and chef-inspired main dishes ranging from Steak Diane to Chicken Madeira on the menu.
PRO TIP: The restaurant does accept walk-in diners, but the restaurant is a popular place, so consider making a reservation.
You can count on our favorite bar and grill menu items. The list includes burgers and sandwiches to chicken wings and sirloin steaks.
I chatted with the manager, Steve, while enjoying a Chicken Club Salad. This restaurant location is one of two Willie’s Sports Pub restaurants in Kansas; the second is located in El Dorado.
Whether you are shopping for blue and white ginger jars, holiday decorations, or faux botanicals, you’ll find them at Presley Pierce Interiors. Every corner of the shop draws the eye, and the window displays inspire one’s creativity.
Shoppers so appreciate the store’s merchandise that the owner often hosts pop-up events off-site in people’s homes. To track new inventory arrivals and learn about upcoming events, follow the store’s 
PRO TIP: Collectors will appreciate Thorne’s House Hot Packs containing budget-friendly starter packs. View the store’s 
I was pleasantly surprised the store’s jewelry collection was reasonably priced for its quality. A decent inventory of hats, handbags, and shoes rounded out the accessory options.
To call the Backroad Atlas a store would be to underrepresent its size. It feels more like an antique mall. Staff members are eager to assist you if you’re hunting for a particular item.
Shopping for a unique item is all the more charming thanks to the store’s cat, who occasionally visits customers to say hello.
A physician and the front rooms once owned the house were his examination rooms. As the story goes, the doctor operated on a 6-year-old child, Sallie, before the anesthesia took effect, and she died in the house. Years later, renters reported mysterious happenings, and the man felt as if he was scratched.
You can tour or stay overnight in the home known for its paranormal activity. Items sometimes crash to the floor. Figures are seen in the windows. Doors slam in the night.
A highlight of my visit was standing in the shade of the Moon Tree, a Sycamore grown from a seed taken to the moon on Apollo 14. Underneath, the names of 17 astronauts who gave their lives are recognized in the memorial.
Manicured gardens and tree spaces dot the landscape. Find the gazebo to enjoy a shaded space of solitude. 
PRO TIP: Take note of Memory Lane inductees’ names paying homage to aviation greats such as the Wright Brothers and Eileen Collins.
Families with young kids will appreciate the state-of-the-art playground, then walk to nearby horseshoe pits to teach them how the game is played.
PRO TIP: On-street parking is available at no cost.
My visit was peaceful as I scanned the horizon made up of trees overlooking the Missouri River running from St. Joseph, Missouri, through Atchison, and toward Leavenworth, Kansas.
The dedicated marker remembers the Atchison man who was the victim of violence after accidentally injuring a white man while hunting.
PRO TIP: Earhart created her own fashion line, often wearing clothing from it. Learn more from 
PRO TIP: Visit the 
Final Thoughts
McClain’s Market
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
Blind Box BBQ
Paulo and Bill
Nick & Jake’s
Flying Cow Gelato
Indoors, the air conditioning was inviting. I watched professional volleyball on TV as 1950s music hits played from the speaker.
Land-based activities include equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, which appeared well-groomed and easy to navigate. I saw dog parents watching four-legged friends at the 44-acre off-leash area. Families ate lunch while admiring stunning lake views at picnic shelters.
To fully understand how Shawnee was established, tour the inside of an 1878 farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and chicken coop (live roosters and hens welcome you!). The reality of farmstead life becomes apparent when entering the Market Shed, where produce was washed and sorted for the market.
I found the botanical gardens, planted and maintained by K-State Research and Extension Center’s master gardeners, to be a highlight. The Typewriter Repair Shop was by far my favorite building for its authenticity.
The museum’s annual Bloody Mary Party is a popular fundraiser that uses the working farm’s tomato crop. You will want to attend their celebrations. Check their 
Are you following my Kansas road trips on social media? I post bonus content on 
Do you like to maintain a fitness routine while on the road? The hotel’s gym is designed to include exercise machines you’d expect to see, plus free weights. The room is large enough that several hotel guests can get in a workout and not get in one another’s way.
PRO TIP: Access a filtered water station in the fitness facility to refill your reusable bottle before departing for the day.
No matter the time of day, I always find something I love on their menu. If it’s the early morning, I opt for breakfast burritos and a drip coffee. In the evening, I order a creative cocktail from the seasonal menu. When unsure what to order, I leave it up to the staff to make something inventive, like a bourbon margarita.
I ordered mouth-watering burnt ends and mac-n-cheese, which tasted 100% delicious. You can’t go wrong with anything you order, from rings and smoked turkey to bbq nachos and Legend Mac Bowls.
With an extensive lunch menu of thoughtfully prepared appetizers, salads, and soups, my friend and I ordered Fried Goat Cheese Balls for starters. My only wish is that we had more of them.
Sandwiched between homemade bread, the chicken salad was scrumptious, and the salads served on the side or as a meal are unmistakably good.
The chef brought warm apple dumplings with vanilla ice cream adding to the delightful dining experience.
Since it was Friday night, I took advantage of the steak special and ordered a ribeye and all the fixings – the comfort meal I craved while away from home. When pressed for his menu favorites, the owner suggested the Pastrami Burnt Ends Sandwich and the Surf-N-Turf dinner.
My al-a carte taco with chips and salsa made for a perfect lunch. Known for South of the Border favorites, El Pollo Loco, enchiladas, and burritos add to expected sports bar menu offerings.
I ordered a lager from KC Bier Company Dunkel to keep with the theme of supporting area breweries.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Each hole can be played two ways from concrete pads. Only a couple of water hazards make it challenging. The course hosts five to seven tournaments a year.
It’s not a race but a chance to push yourself and support your besties. Obstacles like the Vertigo Bus gave me pause, so I left it to the ladies to show me how it was done. They ran the hamster wheel, crawled through muddy ball pits, and swung from ropes, cheering one another on.
If you’re interested in other events at Zip KC, the owners convert the landscape into a walkable haunted path at Halloween, complete with fright-inducing rein actors. At other times of the year, events like Ultimate Field Day and Family Timber Challenge draw a crowd.
In the air, attendees can sign up for aerial activities like the
The park is also home to sports fields, a basketball court, paved walking trails, three playgrounds, and a dog park. You may catch a baseball game or practice in progress if you’re lucky.
PRO TIP: Check the 
Did you know there are over 45K acres of farmland, which accounts for 87.5 percent of all Kansas land? You support families and communities by shopping locally from a farmer or area business.
PRO TIP: Be the first to arrive at the market when it opens for the best product selection. View hours and vendor details 
I found the items for sale reasonably priced for a Midwest market. They have several restored cabinets with drawers to choose from if adding furniture to a home’s entryway or living space. Additionally, you’ll discover many neutral-tone lamps, sit-abouts, faux plants, and framed artwork for sale.
PRO TIP: Take your photo in front of the store’s super cool neon sign.
The curated pieces resemble high-fashion styles you see in big-city boutiques. I found it hard to resist the latest KC gear, and I still regret not buying the beaded earrings calling my name.
PRO TIP: Ask the staff about recent mark-downs.
Keeping with their #stayvintage theme, shoppers can expect to find antiques for their homes and closet. Need a retro dress? They have it. Want a set of dishes? They have it. Hoping to find a cool chair for your office? They have it.
Woodland & Willow
But that’s not all! Home decor finds are tucked amongst racks of clothing and jewelry. The store’s owner is great about helping you find what you want.
The Small Hinge Boutique and Creative Studio
PRO TIP: If you lack time to attend a workshop, consider shopping the boutique space for a decorative sign to take home. From personalized door hangers to wall decor, you’ll find it there.
PRO TIP: Check the refrigerated cases for cheese samples.
The town is one that I’ll repeatedly visit for a plethora of things to do and people to meet.
