Travel

5 Ideas for Exploring Wichita While Staying Active

June 23, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Updated May 2023

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! If you live in the Wichita area and would appreciate new ideas for exploring the city while staying active, I have a treat for you. My good friend, Jennifer Strong McConachie, and I decided to collaborate on a blog post that outlines a summer itinerary that gets you up and moving.

Jennifer is a native Wichitan who has recently authored “Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win At Life,” a book that provides an inspiring look at endurance sports and how they make us better, more successful people. Having grown up in the Riverside neighborhood, staying active on the Arkansas River was just one aspect of her lifestyle.

Today, she is a working mom who gets her workout in almost daily by biking, rollerskiing, swimming, packrafting, or kayaking. Name the sport, and Jennifer is ready to give it a try.

Even though I don’t exercise much (she inspires me to get moving!), Jennifer and I share quite a bit. We’re native Wichitans, and our pride for the city runs deep. We both appreciate making the most of each day and seeking adventure in everyday life. It’s that inner spirit that drives us to make life more delightful.

We hope that our ideas for adventure are ones that you can’t wait to seek out when exploring the city. We’ll identify how you can get in a workout while exploring a destination for each excursion.

BIKE RIDE ALONG THE ARKANSAS RIVER

Jennifer:

Riding along the Arkansas River is one of my favorite places to get in an outdoor workout. The best thing is that you stay out of traffic! This makes the paved trails a great place to bring kids along for a ride in your bike chariot.

Vanessa:

The 10-mile peaceful and scenic path runs along the bank of the Arkansas River, giving cyclists a view of the city’s downtown skyline. Cyclists have access to parks and attractions along the route, including the Museums on the River and the Keeper of the Plains iconic statue.

I suggest planning your route to end at Milkfloat (535 W. Douglas), the historic Delano District west of the river. The cafe is known for its long list of specialty coffees and drinks. After a long bike ride, why not try a Blueberry Lemonade Milkshake or iced coffee? Better yet, sit down and enjoy your beverage with one of their delectable baked goods. I recommend the classic chocolate brownie or homemade strawberry Pop-Tart. Plan your visit by viewing the cafe hours here.

RUN WITH AN EXPANSIVE VIEW

Jennifer:

Running to Elderslie Farm on an early summer morning for a treat gets you out of the city and gives you a way to celebrate after sweating bramble-side.

Vanessa:

Locals appreciate Elderslie Farm’s Bramble Cafe (3501 E. 101st St. North, Kechi) for its beautiful surroundings, a hard-to-resist menu of breakfast items, and flavorful drinks. Feeling parched after a run? Consider ordering a refreshingly tart blackberry lemonade with a scone. If you have extra time before setting out for a return home, don’t miss interacting with the goats roaming the grounds.

Prepare for your adventure before setting out on your run, view the cafe’s hours, and pack a cold pack to bring home fresh cheese from the creamery near the cafe.

SET OUT ON A SCOOTER

Jennifer:

Channel your inner kid and scooter (not the electric kind, but the good old fashion kick scooter kind!) around downtown Wichita. Don’t have a scooter? Try rollerblades, skates, or any other form of wheeled fun. Stop in Cocoa Dolce for an iced drink and a sweet treat.

Vanessa:

You can always find something delightful on Cocoa Dolce’s (235 St. Francis) menu. The downtown location is the perfect pitstop to relax and enjoy flavored iced tea, artisan chocolates, or made-from-scratch cookie. The friendly staff will suggest menu favorites or tell you about their latest specialty drink offerings. If you have a few extra minutes, step over to the glass wall to view employees making chocolate in the nearby factory. Plan your visit by viewing their hours here.

CYCLING AND SANDWICHES

Jennifer:

Why not bike or run to the Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine? You could pack a tasty sandwich from Tanya’s Soup Kitchen to take with you and enjoy a picnic under the trees. Go for live music, a program, or stroll the gardens. One of my favorite events is their annual croquet soiree.

Vanessa:

Tayna’s Soup Kitchen serves menu items made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients made from scratch daily. I love to order the City Chicken sandwich made with sliced chicken, bacon, provolone, romaine, and Caesar dressing on an onion kaiser. Jennifer’s favorite sandwich is described below: Delilah’s Light Lunch, made from sliced chicken breast, apricot relish, sharp cheddar, and romaine on an onion Kaiser roll. Ask about their seasonal soups. View their lunch hours here.

WATCH THE SUNSET FROM A KAYAK

Jennifer:

Another great idea is to take a kayak out to watch the sunset with cookies and snacks from J’Rae’s to nibble on while you’re on the water. Their frosted sugar cookies come in various festive shapes for any occasion.

Vanessa:

Always a supporter of dining locally, I recommend stopping for a sweet treat at J Rae‘s (2357 N. Maize Rd.). They make baked goodies ranging from cheesecakes and cupcakes to cookies and chocolate truffles. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply rewarding yourself for a high-intensity workout, it’s a win-win! Don’t forget to pack chilled sparkling water for your dessert session on the river! View the bakery’s hours here.

Did we inspire you to explore the city? Wichita is nestled between two rivers and linked by several bike trails. Building your own adventure and finding your favorite fuel around town is easy and fun.

Enjoy the outdoors this summer, and don’t forget to order your copy of “Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win At Life” for more ideas, global travel inspiration, and tools for living adventurously. My book, 100 Things To Do In Wichita Before You Die, is available in paperback or via Kindle on Amazon.

Summer Fun Activities in Derby, Kansas

June 20, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 6 Comments

Updated March 27, 2023

Disclosure: The City of Derby sponsored this post; however, all opinions are my own. All of the photos were taken by me.

It’s time you found your happy place this summer in Derby, Kansas! A 20-minute drive from Wichita, the town has many options for keeping the family entertained. I suggest adding it to your summer day trip bucket list.

I’m taking the guesswork out of travel planning for you and breaking down a full day of exciting things to do during your visit. From visiting area attractions to shopping and dining, I’ve created a list of must-have experiences for visitors of all ages.

FARMERS MARKET

Nothing makes my heart pitter-patter more than a stroll through a farmers market on a Saturday morning. At the Derby Farmers Market (512 E. Madison Ave.), you will find seasonal produce, tables stacked with honey and salsa jars, Kansas-raised meat, and hand-crafted gifts. The market operates from April through October on Saturdays from 8 am-12 pm.

Like me, I know you’ll appreciate the variety of vendors and the acoustic live music as the backdrop at the market. I introduced myself to the owner of Sargeant’s Berry Farm and chatted about the seasonal vegetables for sale. He was just the person I needed to talk to about zucchini. As a gardener, I learn the best tips about tending plants simply from conversing with farmers at the market.

Once you’ve stocked your reusable bag with Kansas-made products, I recommend taking a walk around Madison Avenue Central Park and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. If you’re a parent with kids in tow, visiting the like-new playground is a must.

Watch them as they gleefully cross a suspension bridge and crawl through jungle gym equipment. Before packing up the car with the kids, make sure they see the two-story waterfall and life-sized chess set located adjacent to the play area.

DERBY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

Let’s continue the fun! Our next stop is the town’s historical museum, a treasure of finds. Wait until you see what lies inside one of Derby’s oldest buildings, a school built in 1924 that is now listed on the National Historical Registrar! The Derby Historical Society Museum (710 E. Market) invites visitors to travel through time by touring classrooms converted into thematic exhibits. Fifteen rooms are stocked with contributed artifacts, and the hallways display special collections.

Even though school may be out for kids during the summer, they will get a kick out of rooms devoted to education (be sure to check out the report card in the case!). Adults will appreciate the historical value of the curated items in rooms celebrating 19th Century history, the military, and ancient artifacts.

Everyone will gain a new appreciation for how their ancestors lived from one of the finest collections of artifacts in the state.

What makes this museum special? It has more unique and hard-to-curate items than I’ve seen in a Kansas museum. For example, they don’t just have one antique typewriter or camera – dozens of all sizes and colors. I told everyone I’ve met since I visited the museum about its impact on me. And I must admit, the more I learned about the town’s history, the more I wished I had gone to school in Derby. “Go, Panthers!” I’ll return to the museum with friends and family in tow.

Open April through October on Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm, admission to the Derby Historical Society Museum is FREE. You better carve out at least an hour of your afternoon to tour it. The friendly volunteers (many of whom grew up in Derby) are more than willing to take you on an impromptu tour, or you can enjoy the museum at your own pace on a self-guided tour.

PARKS

It doesn’t truly feel like summer until you spend time exploring one of Derby’s picturesque parks. The town has more than 403 acres of parkland, 20 developed parks, and 14 green spaces. Their newest addition, Decarsky Park (1600 Line Drive), is worth the short drive to the edge of town.

The dog park and ballpark are in pristine condition featuring four playing fields, concessions, a dog agility course, a dock launch (watch dogs jump for toys into the pond!), and shade structures. Find out more about what you can expect at the park here.

During my visit, the park hosted youth softball and baseball tournaments. With every crack of a bat and roar of the crowd, the atmosphere erupted with a competitive spirit. It was a good day to visit the park for the first time. The energy was infectious, and it was certainly a place to enjoy the sounds of summer.

If you’d rather stay closer to town, a visit to Warren Riverview Park (321 W. Market) promises a good time. Opened in 2018 on the banks of the Arkansas River, it defies your expectations. The four-acre park features kayak/canoe access to the river, covered shelters, a 15-foot ropes course, rentable event space, and public art. View park details here.

LUNCH

By now, you’ve probably worked up quite an appetite. Locals know that Madrocks Restaurant & Sports Bar (1821 E. Madison Ave. #100) is a smart choice for lunch or dinner-goers searching for a tasty meal. They serve housemade steaks and burgers using Yoder Meats, fresh salads, deli sandwiches, and mouthwatering pizza.

I devoured tangy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders on King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls served with perfectly crispy tater tots. Seated in the cool air conditioning while enjoying a scrumptious meal was just what I needed to escape the summer heat.

An excellent place for groups to gather, play sports bar games or partake in karaoke on Thursday-Saturday, Madrocks is also known to host live music occasionally. Multiple TVs make watching the game easy, and the sports bar includes a pool table, Golden Tee, and pinball.

The restaurant and bar are locally owned and veteran-operated. Check their Facebook page for details.

FIELD STATION: DINOSAURS

With a new energy boost, you’ll be ready to jump in the car and drive to Field Station: Dinosaurs (2999 N. Rock Road). The adventure park is a world-class family attraction with limitless possibilities for fun. After purchasing tickets, visitors enter via basecamp to start the expedition. Upon check-in, you will receive a trail map and expedition schedule (shows), and each child in your group will be gifted a passport to have stamped at six stations.

You can expect to see over 40 full-size, animatronic dinosaurs on 10 acres of walking trails. You get access to 30 theatrical shows, games, and activities for one admission – no extra charge! Admission to the park also includes a round of Jurassic Golf on the 18-whole course, which is also sold separately if you’d rather only golf during a visit to the park.

Touring the park is an immersive experience. Where else can you walk amongst life-sized prehistoric creators and hear their natural sounds? Don’t miss visiting all of the activity stations. Each one keeps novice paleontologists learning and engaged.

Kids will love the Fossil Dig Site, where they can unearth prehistoric fossils and dinosaur skeletons. Bigger kids and adults will find the T-Rex Feeding Frenzy interesting as they learn about the Scientific Method to study the eating habits of the creature. Tip: Pick up a Scavenger Hunt at Dino-Bites and return it to Dino-Bites for a prize.

I was impressed by each employee’s enthusiasm for teaching others about science, and the employees that led the shows were highly engaging. Seeing families singing and dancing along at the Dinosaur Dance Party was refreshing.

To learn more about the park, its hours, and upcoming events, you can visit their Facebook page or Instagram page for details

DERBY PUBLIC LIBRARY GATHERING SPACE GALLERY

Let’s escape the summer sun and head indoors! Art lovers will appreciate the volume of talented work on exhibition at the Derby Public Library (1600 E. Walnut Grove). As you walk into the building, you immediately see prints and paintings.

During my visit, I admired abstract artwork, photography, and drawings by local artists of all ages. While all of the pieces were remarkable, I appreciated one, in particular, tucked away in the back of the library of the musician Beck. All of the artwork was for sale and modestly priced.

If you plan on staying in Derby for longer than a day, note their events calendar which often includes activities tailored for kids and teens. To view the library’s hours, visit this page.

ROCK RIVER RAPIDS

Just when you think you’ve experienced the best of summer fun in Derby, there’s one more place that promises excitement – Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park (1900 E. James)! More fun awaits just around the corner and down the street from the library. Families can dip in the Zero Depth Pool, relax on the Lazy River, or test their endurance in the Lap Pool.

Can you say it’s summer until you’ve launched yourself down a water slide? The aquatic center has multiple slides to select, and the newest one, the Green Slide, has twists and turns that get your heart racing.

Although outside food and drink are not allowed, attendees can purchase tasty treats from Ollie Snack Shack. If you want a place to store your belongings, you can use one of the lockers if you provide your lock. You don’t have to worry about bringing a chair, as the park has rows of available lounge chairs. You can also sun yourself on a towel on the grassy lawn like others I saw enjoying the space.I visited the pool on one of the hottest days on record in Derby. It was the best place to wind down and relax in the shade near the water. It made for great people-watching, too! Everyone was smiling and enjoying the day. If you want to learn more about Rock River Rapids Aquatic Center, the premier water park in South-Central Kansas, view their hours and events via their Facebook page.

Derby offers countless places to enjoy the summer. Whether you’re walking amongst dinosaurs, splashing in the pool, or enjoying a delicious meal indoors, it’s certainly worth the short commute from Wichita.

I’d love to hear if you’ve visited other places in Derby that promise a good time during the summer. Please leave your suggestions in the comments below.

Making the Most of a Day in Pratt, Kansas

June 17, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 16 Comments

Updated June 12, 2024

Disclosure: The City of Pratt sponsored this post, however, all opinions are my own. All of the photos were taken by me.

Kansas is dotted with charming small towns, but few are as fun to spend the day in as Pratt aka “The Gateway to the High Plains.” Upon arrival, the town rolls out the red carpet and welcomes you. Located a bit over an hour’s drive from Wichita, visitors will quickly discover that there are many must-see places to experience.

A large part of the appeal of visiting Pratt is getting to know its residents as you stroll in and out of local businesses. They treat you like they’ve known you for years! From unique boutiques and Western wear shops to art museums and restaurants, there is more than enough fun to be had in a day.

Making the Most of a Day in Pratt, Kansas

N’Cahoots Coffee & Shoppe

There is no better way to start your day than to stop into N’Cahoots Coffee & Shoppe (210 S. Main). As you walk into the café, you’re immediately greeted by the smell of delicious coffee and the sound of chatty visitors. The space is decorated with eclectic furniture, fancy chandeliers, and colorful artwork reminiscent of a big city coffee shop. Much of the N’Cahoots will remind you of the coffee shop from the TV show Friends.

After ordering my chai tea and a slice of Quiche Lorraine, I stepped into the back of the café into a Friends-themed lounge. While dining on my delicious breakfast, I scribbled my favorite cast member quote in chalk on the table and then read Friends trivia.

Visiting N’Cahoots is an entertaining experience unlike anything you’ll find in Kansas. It doesn’t stop there – it’s also a place to shop! Before you leave, check out the many retail items for sale, ranging from antiques to body care products.

N'Cahoots Meal — I highly recommend ordering a hot chai tea with the scratch-made quiche. That flakey crust is a must. Can you see the quote I wrote in chalk on the Friends-themed table? “We were on a break!”

After fueling up with caffeine and breakfast, it was time to step out onto Main Street and shop until my heart’s content. You get the sense of small-town pride as you walk up and down the sidewalk gazing into storefronts. Most stores that are open during the week open after 10 am.

Simply Southwest

If you’re on the hunt for whimsical home decor or a gift for someone, Simply Southwest (213 S. Main St.) carries it all and more. As soon as I walked inside the store, I immediately spotted a half dozen items I wanted, which is not typical for me since I’m a picky shopper. Let’s be honest, I wanted almost everything in the store. If you can’t find something you want to buy, you haven’t looked hard enough! I walked away with bbq-themed napkins, a hilarious greeting card, and designer socks.

Hello Beautiful Beauty Bar & Boutique

Hello Beautiful Beauty Bar & Boutique (205 S. Main St.) is the perfect stop for shoppers looking to add a bit of glam to their style. A ladies’ boutique store, you’ll find rows of jewelry, clothing, shoes, and cosmetics. Step up to the beauty bar and ask about their extensive line of LipSense by SeneGence while learning about upcoming events like Wine Walk Saturday. Shopping with a glass of wine in hand along Main Street? Yes, please! They also host a live style show every Tuesday at 9 pm on their Facebook group page for women wanting to shop virtually and have items shipped.

Joni’s Stitch by Stitch

I kept the shopping fun going at Joni’s Stitch by Stitch (108 S. Main St.), full of inventory to update your closet. Also, a place to have alterations done; the owner carries dresses and separates, ideal for semi-formal and formal events.

Memories Home Decor & Gifts

Next door, Memories Home Decor & Gifts (110 S. Main St.) has been in business since 1986, enticing shoppers with home decor, gifts for all ages, and women’s clothing. The owner also keeps essential oils, CBD hemp oil products, and Yankee products in stock.

The Flower Shoppe

A short jaunt away from Main Street, I encourage you to visit The Flower Shoppe (201 E. 4th St.). Florist Lou Lynne Moss has been designing silk and fresh floral arrangements for happy customers for years. After you place your custom order, cruise through the shop to select from the beautiful decor.

Every corner of the store has something that you’ll want to add to your shopping haul. It’s a delightful store! Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with puppy kisses from the story’s mascot, Louie, the pug.

Lisa’s Western Wear

But there is still more shopping to do! Save your spending money for Lisa’s Western Wear (1641 E. 1st St.) near the edge of town to stock up on leather boots and cowboy fashion. Need a particular order? She’s got you covered. Cowboys and cowgirls around the area shop here for rodeo gear.

You won’t find many independently owned stores like this one in the state. Ladies, don’t walk past the jewelry shelves without trying on some new bling.

Lisa' Western Wear — Visiting with your family? Look toward the front of the store to find boots for toddlers.

Legend’s Pub & Grille

No matter your style, Pratt has something for every kind of shopper. But when you’re craving something scrumptious to eat after a day of shopping, I recommend you stop into Legend’s Pub & Grille (109 Parke St.) When I told store employees that I intended to eat lunch at Legends, every one of them praised the restaurant’s menu and gave multiple recommendations on what to order. Settling on the Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer and Bourbon Burger, I devoured my lunch.

The residents were right. It’s the best place to eat lunch in town while watching sports or chatting with friends. I appreciated that every inch of the restaurant was decked out in memorabilia the sports-themed Tiffany lamps. Classic rock played in the background while I attempted to eat every last bite.

Vernon Filley Art Museum

But the day isn’t over yet! I suggest you head back into the central business district to make your way to the Vernon Filley Art Museum (412 S. Jackson St.), the home of rotating guest exhibitions and art classes open to the public. Adult visitors pay $4, seniors and college students $3, and youth $2 to tour the museum. They offer a 10% discount for groups of 10 or more.

I appreciated the work of two regional artists whose paintings were showcased in “Two Visions – One Prairie.” An avid art museum-goer, I was impressed with the sophistication of the museum and its knowledgeable staff. You’ll love the retail gift store filled from top to bottom with artists’ creative pieces for sale.

Green Sports Complex

There are so many reasons to visit Pratt. Did you know the town attracts thousands of baseball players and their families to the Green Sports Complex for youth tournaments? (The concession stand is known for having popular, non-traditional concession stand food.)

Traveling families enjoy the town’s many parks, notably Lemon Park, a great place to picnic or walk along tree-lined paths.

The town is also known for hosting The Miss Kansas pageant on the campus of Pratt Community College. For outdoorsmen looking to learn more about their surroundings, I recommend driving to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism (512 SE 25th Ave.), museum, and fish hatchery. Regretfully, I didn’t see it since I packed quite a bit into my day trip itinerary.

This impressive town needs to be on your Kansas travel bucket list. During my solo trek, I had a fantastic time getting to know the friendly residents and taking in the sites.

A short drive from Wichita, I’d recommend visiting Pratt as soon as possible. If you’re interested in day-tripping from Wichita, check out this blog post for eight more towns to visit.

Must-Visit Places in McPherson, Kansas for a Day Trip

May 23, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 12 Comments

Updated November 21, 2024

Disclosure: Visit McPherson sponsored this post; however, all opinions are my own. All of the photos were taken by me.

McPherson, Kansas, is one of those towns you wish you had visited sooner and can’t wait to return to again. A short drive from Wichita, the central Kansas town is the perfect getaway for a day trip. If you’re in search of Main Street shopping, diverse dining options, historic museums and buildings, phenomenal artwork, and fun outdoor activities, then McPherson is the ideal place to spend time exploring.

For me, the heart and soul of a town are its people, and the residents of McPherson are incredibly welcoming. Each business owner and employee made me feel like I was the only person in the room. Whether they were enthusiastically telling me about Main Street or the town, they wanted to ensure I enjoyed my visit.

Like me, it won’t take you long to realize that McPherson is not just another Kansas town. It’s exactly where you want to be, either for the day or perhaps longer. It’s time you discover what McPherson has to offer!

FOOD & DRINK

CRAFT COFFEE PARLOR

The best way to start your day in McPherson is to sip on a freshly brewed cup of coffee and enjoy a cinnamon roll at Craft Coffee Parlor (120 N. Main), a space that reminds you of a big city café. The interior of the coffee shop is designed with a modern, industrial aesthetic. They considered every detail in its design, from the restored wood floors to the artistic details of the latté art. I appreciated the paintings on display while enjoying my coffee in the good company of strangers who studied nearby or were chatting with friends.

I recommend asking the friendly employees about their high-end coffee selection and kombucha on tap. Visiting on a good weather day? Take your coffee outdoors to enjoy the view of Main Street on the front patio under string lights. View Craft Coffee Parlor’s hours here.

NOFFY’S SANDWICH SHOP & PUB

A fan of hoagies and charcuterie, I knew I wanted to eat lunch at Noffy’s Sandwich Shop & Pub (210 N. Main). Known for serving authentic east coast-inspired meals and cocktails, they use only the freshest, most flavorful ingredients. The menu has a selection of subs, salads, charcuterie boards, and beverages. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert as they serve Sweet Italian Cannolis – ask about the day’s flavor!

A takeout-only restaurant, we ordered the Traditional Italian 12″ hoagie and created a charcuterie board with a choice of three items: butcher’s choice meat (yummy salami!), smoked gouda, and assorted nuts. I’m still craving the artisan cheese! It made for a delightful meal at Lakeside Park (500 W. Lakeside Drive). What could be better than enjoying a delicious lunch surrounded by the picturesque landscape of a beautiful city park? View the restaurant’s hours here or see the menu here.

THREE RINGS BREWERY

You know you’re in the right place when you see the food truck chef delivering a hot pizza to customers seated inside a brewery. Three Rings Brewery (536 Old U.S. 81) is known for serving tasty craft beer and for having a visiting food truck on-site. Stop by to enjoy a beer on the patio or belly up to the bar inside the taproom.

During our visit, we swapped stories and learned more about the great people that make McPherson what it is while sipping on a Vertigo IPA and their latest recipe, Summer Breeze Lime Gosé. Already a fan of one of their flagship beers, Wanderlust, a Scottish Red, I had always wanted to visit the taproom.

Just as we suspected, we left with a growler and great memories of our time there. It’s easy to see why the brewery has a regular following of craft beer fans after five years of business. I recommend visiting Thursday-Saturday to experience it first-hand. View the taproom hours and food truck schedule here.

SHOPPING

Main Street in McPherson is a shopper’s paradise. The town’s storefronts beg for passersby to stop inside and discover the specialty shops. As I strolled along Main Street, I couldn’t resist checking out these stores:

TWICE TOLD TALES

Within minutes of your arrival inside Twice Told Tales (104 S. Main), you’ll pick up books to take home. The boutique second-hand store is stocked with a large inventory of gently used books, a small collection of new books, and gift-giving items ranging from journals to greeting cards.

The owner, Libby, and her friendly staff are always ready to help you find the book you’re searching for or even the unexpected selection – ask her about Blind Date with a Book.

You’ll quickly be impressed by the high-quality selections as you peruse the bookcases. Of course, my eyes darted right to the cookbooks and travel guides, but I also found myself gazing at the rest of the gently-used books. The backend of the story is dedicated to the littlest shoppers, while the rest of the store stocks books for all ages.

Not able to make it to the store? You can buy any book you see on the store’s Instagram page over the phone. View the bookstore’s hours here.

SUNFLOWER MERCANTILE

The Sunflower Mercantile (106 N. Main) offers shoppers a chance to purchase home decor items while paying it forward, a win-win! Its mission is to provide services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Every dollar spent at the store goes back to the non-profit to serve these individuals and provide job training and employment.

I quickly spotted several items that I wanted to take home with me, including hand-poured, scented candles and a bag of Buckskin Road Coffee roasted in McPherson, Kansas. I love supporting Kansas businesses, and the Sunflower Mercantile makes it easy! View their hours here or shop online.

THE COOK’S NOOK

By far one of my favorite stores in Kansas, The Cook’s Nook (219 N. Main) is the quintessential store for anyone who loves to live in the kitchen. Considered the “largest independently owned kitchen store” in the state, they stock everything from pots and pans to small appliances and specialty food items to home decor.

Operated by the daughter of the original owner, Jonna, and her staff are committed to helping you find just what you need to add to your home collection or as a gift for someone special. The Cook’s Nook is more than a retail store. It also provides cooking classes taught by a chef and access to specialty foods you won’t find easy access to, like the gourmet olive oils and vinegar made by Olivelle.

Jonna and her staff are accommodating and willing to answer any questions you have about their inventory. I left with a goodie bag full of ingredients to prepare fish tacos! Give in to your inner chef and shop until your heart’s content at The Cook’s Nook! View their hours here.

THE CLAYWORKS

A must-stop on Main Street is The Clayworks at Disability Supports. The non-profit sells one-of-a-kind works of art made by individuals with disabilities and by local professional artists. Each handcrafted piece for sale includes the story of the individual who created it.

Nestled inside a historic building, The Clayworks includes the artists’ work area, a gallery, and a retail shop.

They are committed to enriching the lives of their clients. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of their merchandise go to providing income, adding to their independence and self-confidence. Wait until you see the quality of the pieces! I was blown away by the craftsmanship. While shopping at The Clayworks, step inside their gallery, One Door North. View their location and hours here.

THE STONE CHIMNEY

Only a short drive from Main Street, shoppers who love home decor and silk florals will also appreciate visiting The Stone Chimney (1500 E. 1st Street). The ideal shopping spot for someone looking to purchase a housewarming gift or to create a custom gift made from botanicals, the friendly staff at The Stone Chimney is happy to accommodate shoppers.

I also enjoyed spending a few tranquil moments watching the waterfall and stocked koi pond outside the shop. It’s a nice place to take a photo while visiting McPherson. Inquire about their hours here.

MUSEUM & PUBLIC ART

MCPHERSON MUSEUM

To truly get to know a town, I always visit its museum. If I hadn’t toured the McPherson Museum & Arts Foundation (1111 E. Kansas Avenue), I would have never learned about the town’s first gold medal basketball team, the Globe Refiners, or viewed ice age fossils from Kansas dating back 40,000 years.

Where else would I have discovered the work of notable artists like Birger Sandzén or touched a 126-pound meteorite? All of these exhibits and more help visitors connect the town’s history to what it is today.

I appreciated learning about the boys that made up the Globe Refiners amateur basketball team in the early 1930s. They went on to represent the United States at the 1936 Olympic Games in Germany, where they played against Canada on a rain-soaked outdoor clay court. They played their hearts out while covered in mud and won the first-ever gold medal in basketball. The “tallest team in the world” made McPherson proud.

MURALS

The home to numerous murals, McPherson celebrates its history with a collection of paintings displayed around town. Using this listing, you can take a self-guided walking or driving tour. A few that caught my eye were All Schools Day Mural (123 S. Main) and The Globe Refiners (Ash Street and Kansas Avenue). Keep your eyes peeled and your camera poised to capture all six murals. View the brochure here.

OUTDOOR FUN

TURKEY CREEK GOLF COURSE

An 18-hole, golf course designed with native grasses and water features, Turkey Creek Golf Course (1000 Fox Run Drive) is just the place to polish your game. Each hole includes four sets of tees. Need to practice your drive before taking to the links? You’ll appreciate the 300+ yard driving range. Open since 1990, the course is manicured to perfection.

I hadn’t played golf since my early days when I played on the varsity team in high school. It didn’t take long before I knocked the rust off. I certainly appreciated having a golf cart, a slight rate upgrade. Perhaps the next time I visit, I’ll schedule a golf lesson! If you’re a golf enthusiast, book a tee time at the beautiful Turkey Creek Golf Course here.

TAKE THE TROLLEY

Another entertaining way to explore the city is by renting McPherson Trolley with a group or enjoying it during one of their themed tours. It’s a fun way to enjoy the town whether you’re interested in a holiday lights tour or want to take in the town during a private group tour. I’d love to include a trolley tour for my return trip to McPherson.

CITY PARKS

For a small Kansas town, McPherson celebrates outdoor parks in a big way. With 300 acres of city parks brimming with beautiful landscaping and sitting areas, the town has a park for every visitor. A dog-lover? Make your way to Bremyer Dog Park (1000 S. Centennial)! Visiting with the kiddos? Take them to Homeside Park for a game of t-ball or to climb the playground. To view all of the parks, visit the listing here.

No matter why you find yourself in McPherson, you’ll find it hard to leave. The people, the attractions, and the scenery make for a day trip getaway. I look forward to returning to the quaint town to chat more with the locals and refill my growler at Three Rings Brewery.

Trust me, the short drive to McPherson from Wichita is worth it – plan your visit!

5 Essential Resources for Planning Kansas Travel

May 11, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Are you planning a road trip through Kansas? As a native of the Sunflower State, I’ve spent endless hours traveling the state, and I often rely on five trusted resources to plan the ideal trip.

Which one will you use for your next vacation?

I’m the kind of traveler who appreciates having a “loose” itinerary that leaves room for spontaneous stops. How would I have ever discovered Big Brutus in West Mineral, Kansas, if it hadn’t been for taking a detour when I saw the road sign? It was worth it!

What do you use to plan your travel across the Sunflower State? Consider these five resources that I highly recommend from personal experience:

TOURISM GUIDES

Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) are the experts when it comes to the best places to explore and dine in a particular area of the state. Their free guides are available upon request. You can sign up to receive them electronically or by mail depending on the visitor center’s website. I typically opt for the snail mail option because CVBs will include extra maps and brochures featuring area attractions along with their guide.

Recently, I’ve planned trips to visit Manhattan, Pittsburg, and Olathe from the travel suggestions mentioned in their visitor guides. If the location you’d like to visit doesn’t have a convention and visitor’s bureau, search for the “City of (Insert Name)” and access their Community page or check the events calendar.

WORD-OF-MOUTH RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the best suggestions for dining or attractions have come from friends and family. Consider asking those you know about where they’ve traveled in the state to discover hidden away gems.

Are you interested in going fishing or checking out a lake you’ve never been to? Rather than logging time researching the options, ask your family’s best angler! If you’re lucky, they’ll even tell you the best bait to use to catch a fish.

Years ago we drove to Cottonwood Falls and stayed at a cabin on a farmer’s ranch. We knew we wanted to check out the Chase Lake Falls after visiting with friends who had been to the area. The waterfall was worth the trip!

FACEBOOK GROUPS

Why not join a local travel group on Facebook? Group members are the ultimate resource when it comes to asking specific questions about visiting an unfamiliar place and they often know just the websites to visits for more information. I prefer to follow the discussions in Midwest Road Trip Adventures, The Local Tourist and Kansas Tourism Industry group pages.

Additionally, group page admins often host daily themes prompting members to share images from their travels. If you explore a location and fall in love with it, the best way to entice someone else to visit is to share photos and videos.

TRAVEL GUIDEBOOKS

If I’m scanning the shelves of a local bookstore, you’ll most likely find me in the travel section perusing the guidebooks. Libraries and bookstores are treasure troves for excellent travel resources. I purchased The Kansas Guidebook 2: For Explorers by Marci Penner & WenDee Rowe and Secret Kansas: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure by Roxie Yonkey.

Are you planning to explore the state’s biggest city, Wichita? Purchase my books 100 Things To Do In Wichita Before You Die and Secret Wichita: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure.

MAGAZINES

A graduate of the University of Kansas with a degree in journalism, I’m a diehard fan of flipping through the glossy pages of magazines. The hands-down best tourism publication in the state is Kansas! magazine. You’ll find yourself entranced by its full-page guides, mesmerized by the gorgeous landscape photography, and impressed by its coverage of the people who make the Sunflower State great.

BONUS! I hope you’ll use my Kansas travel page as a place to discover new destinations. I give an honest account of my travel experiences.

How did you go about planning your last trip across the state? Leave a suggestion for a resource or destination in the comments below for others to use.

From the wetlands to the open prairie and urban areas to small towns, Kansas offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Putt-Putt to the Pizza Hut Museum

May 3, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 14 Comments

Do you have fond memories of dining at Pizza Hut as a kid?

Just thinking of hanging out at Pizza Hut brings back fond memories for me. I’ll never forget when my neighborhood friends and I were old enough to dine there without our parents. We pooled our money together and bought a pizza to share. We were living the dream.

Today, I still can’t believe that the internationally known pizza restaurant was founded in my home city, Wichita. In 1958, two Wichita State University students, Dan and Frank Carney, opened the first restaurant on the east side of town, staffed by family, fellow fraternity brothers, and friends. What started as a humble side hustle for a couple of college students has grown to 18,000 Pizza Hut restaurants in over 100 countries (Source: Yum! Brands, 2021).

Pizza Hut enthusiasts will get a kick out of visiting the Pizza Hut Museum on Wichita State University’s Innovation campus – the original “Home of the Hut.” It is the actual original Pizza Hut building! Open to the public and free to tour, the interactive museum showcases everything you love about the business, from authentic artifacts to chronological timelines.

How did it all start? The Carney brothers borrowed $600 from their mom to open the first restaurant on Kellogg and Bluff Streets. When they eventually sold the business to Pepsi Company in 1977, it was worth $300,000,000. Now, that’s how you build a business! As they say, “No one loves pizza more than Pizza Hut.” To read more about the company’s growth, visit their blog page.

Recognize the dining chairs and Tiffany-style lamp? Hessco Manufacturing, located in Hesston, Kansas, made the furniture for the restaurant chain from the 1960s to-1970s.

Over the years, the brand has evolved to align with pop culture trends. (Does anyone remember the commercials featuring celebrities?) They made history as the first company to deliver food to space. Additionally, they influenced children’s love of reading. I was a product of the BOOK IT program, a literacy initiative encouraging students to read, and helping kids access books.

After reading a book, a gold star sticker was placed on my Pizza Hut BOOK IT button. Once I completed all five stars on the button, I earned a Personal Pan Pizza®! Perhaps that explains my love of reading and why I eventually became a high school English teacher.

The Pizza Hut Story — What Pizza Hut merchandise did you own as a kid?

Pizza Hut’s influence is apparent as you tour the museum. You’ll appreciate the interactive space offering visitors a chance to walk down memory (pizza!) lane. You’re encouraged to experience the Tactile Library and take a selfie with the restaurant chain’s original mascot, Pizza Pete. Warning: When you exit the building, you’ll crave a slice of pizza. What will you order for dine-in or delivery?

Did you know that Pizza Hut delivered pizzas to The White House in 1989 after First Lady Barbara Bush decided to host a pizza party? A favorite meal choice of Americans, the company launched online ordering in 1994, making getting a pie delivered to your door much easier.

Pizza Hut Museum Exhibit — Pizza Pete, a one-time mascot for the franchise, was once made into a kids toy.

Don’t forget! The Pizza Hut Museum is open to the public, and admission is free. Review the museum’s hours and plan your visit to the original Home of the Hut. Do you consider yourself the ultimate Pizza Hut fan? Stay up to date to learn about product releases and campaign launches via their Press Room page.

Perhaps you can’t make it to Wichita to visit the museum? Take a virtual journey here.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a Meat Lover’s® pizza to order.

Travel

Making the Most of a Day in Pratt, Kansas

N’Cahoots Coffee & Shoppe

Simply Southwest

Hello Beautiful Beauty Bar & Boutique

Joni’s Stitch by Stitch

Memories Home Decor & Gifts

The Flower Shoppe

Lisa’s Western Wear

Legend’s Pub & Grille

Vernon Filley Art Museum

Green Sports Complex

FOOD & DRINK

CRAFT COFFEE PARLOR

NOFFY’S SANDWICH SHOP & PUB

THREE RINGS BREWERY

SHOPPING

TWICE TOLD TALES

SUNFLOWER MERCANTILE

THE COOK’S NOOK

THE CLAYWORKS

THE STONE CHIMNEY

MUSEUM & PUBLIC ART

MCPHERSON MUSEUM

MURALS

OUTDOOR FUN

TURKEY CREEK GOLF COURSE

TAKE THE TROLLEY

CITY PARKS

TOURISM GUIDES

WORD-OF-MOUTH RECOMMENDATIONS

FACEBOOK GROUPS

TRAVEL GUIDEBOOKS

MAGAZINES

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