Disclosure: The Willa Cather Foundation and Visit Red Cloud sponsored my trip. All opinions and photographs are my own.
In Red Cloud, Nebraska, literary history meets community spirit, creating a visit-worthy town only six miles beyond the North-Central Kansas border.
Known as the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather, its downtown is a hub where community is truly felt wherever you go. Even if you’re not visiting to dive into Willa Cather’s history, Red Cloud offers something for every kind of traveler, from shopping to dining and museums. And the town’s boutique hotel is positively charming.
Luxury Lodging
Hotel Garber
Hotel Garber (346 N. Webster) is a stylish boutique hotel worthy of an overnight stay. Featuring 26 guest rooms, including a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite, it is a beautiful addition to downtown Red Cloud.
Developers revitalized a historic building, restoring it to its three-story grandeur. Initially built in 1902, guests feel at home amid modern furnishings in spacious lounges and high-ceiling guest rooms.
My Standard King Room was perfect for me as a solo traveler and included the in-room amenities I seek when booking a stay.
After a day of exploring Red Cloud, I spent my evenings reading a Willa Cather book by lamplight from bed or watching television. Thanks to high-speed Wi-Fi, I was able to get some work done on my laptop.
Guests have access to a complimentary continental breakfast buffet served in the Creative Hub, which includes self-serve eggs, bacon, muffins, toast, oatmeal, yogurt, and drinks.
You’ll definitely want to grab a drink and dinner at Forrester’s Restaurant & Lounge, when it’s open in the evening.
Choose from seven signature cocktails, many of which are a nod to Willa Cather’s book characters, like the O-Pioneers Paloma. Eight wines are available by the glass or bottle, and they have a short list of whiskey, bourbon, scotch, and craft beers.
I relaxed with a smoked old-fashioned cocktail before savoring braised beef served with a squash-corn salad from the chef’s seasonal menu. The dining room stirred with small groups of local families and friends who dropped by for cocktails and conversation.
Paired with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, the chef’s creation was scrumptious and well-suited for a fabulous fall evening dinner.
Check Forrester’s Restaurant and Lounge hours in advance, especially if you’re interested in dinner service.
Hotel Garber’s staff exceeded my expectations by ensuring my comfort during my two-night stay, often asking whether I needed anything and offering tourism advice when requested.
There is a reason Hotel Garber receives 5-star reviews. View guest rooms and reserve your stay.
Must-Have Experiences
National Willa Cather Center
Esteemed novelist Willa Cather wrote, “I would rather go home to Red Cloud than any of the beautiful cities in Europe where I used to love to go.”
She truly loved her childhood home, and Nebraskans early welcomed her back when she visited as an adult.
At the National Willa Cather Center (413 N. Webster), the writer’s legacy is honored through a museum, guided tours, and a bookstore. The non-profit foundation keeps the writer’s legacy alive by maintaining historic sites and hosting events, such as an author series.
I explored the American Bittersweet: The Life and Writing of Willa Cather exhibit, highlighting the author’s personal and professional life by reading the displays in chronological order, starting with her formative years in Red Cloud.
Situated in a restored 1887 building, the exhibit’s photography brings Cather’s story to life. She worked tirelessly as a magazine editor for years, a job that honed her skills and accelerated her book-writing career.
A visit to the National Willa Cather Center isn’t complete without stepping into a bonus room located beyond the exhibit. There, I discovered a full-scale, bronze statue of the author by Omaha artist Littleton Alston. It’s similar to the one situated at the U.S. Capitol.
PRO TIP: Take the elevator upstairs to view another Cather statue and a gallery of historical photographs taken of Red Cloud residents during the 19th Century.
Guided Seven-Building Tour
I immersed myself in Cather’s life story by taking the 90-minute Guided Seven-Building Tour around Red Cloud, following my guide in my car.
At each stop, from the Burlington Depot to Cather’s childhood home, an expert guide explained the significance of each location in Cather’s upbringing.
Burlington Depot
The morning sunshine warmed the exterior of the Burlington Depot (437 W.Welsch) as my guide pointed out its architecture. Technically, this is the town’s third train depot building, built in 1897.
The depot is mentioned in Cather’s short story “The Sculpture’s Funeral.”
Cather, who revisited Red Cloud many times, traveled to and from her hometown by train.
St. Juliana Falconieri Catholic Church
If you’ve read Cather’s book, “My Ántonia,” then you’re familiar with Cather’s main character, who her real-life friend, Anna Pavelka, inspired.
St. Juliana Falconieri Catholic Church (425 W. 3rd) is where Pavelka’s first child was baptized and where she was wed.
J.L. Miner House
A tour of the J.L. Miner House (241 N. Seward) reveals the personality of the family who once lived there, including Cather’s childhood playmate, Mary Miner.
She also befriended Carrie Miner, the same woman to whom her book “My Ántonia” is dedicated. The family inspired Cather’s characters, the Harling family.
As you tour the home, it’s clear it was considered one of the nicest in the community when it was built in 1878. Large rooms, gold-plated dishware, and oversized windows impress.
Grace Episcopal Church
Cather joined the Grace Episcopal Church (546 N. Cedar) at age 50. Inside the Gothic revival-style structure, beautiful hand-painted windows are illuminated on a blue-sky day.
The church held a memorial service for Cather in 1947, including two windows that the author had made and dedicated to her parents.
Willa Cather Childhood Home
For me, the most anticipated visit on the tour is the Willa Cather Childhood Home (245 Cedar). The family resided there from 1884-1904.
A tour of the National Historic Landmark includes descriptions of original furniture pieces, artwork, and prints.
The most interesting room in the house is Cather’s childhood bedroom, which visitors are allowed to peer into but not to explore because of its delicate original wallpaper.
Cather installed the rose-colored wallpaper in the attic bedroom.
Farmers & Merchants Bank
Visitors to the Farmers & Merchants Bank (338 N. Webster) will likely be awestruck by its architectural beauty. Constructed by Silas Garber, the founder of Red Cloud, its Colorado stone façade and marble steps make a statement.
Elaborate teller cages shipped by rail from Chicago anchor the main floor of the 1888 bank building. Downstairs, visitors have access to interpretive panels about Red Cloud’s history.
The Garbers inspired Cather to develop characters in “A Lost Lady.”
Red Cloud Opera House
The final stop on the guided tour is the Red Cloud Opera House (411 N. Webster), which sits adjacent to the National Willa Cather Center. Visitors can view the stage where Cather once delivered her high school commencement speech, and where the signatures of performers are scribbled on the backstage walls.
Built in the 1890s, the Red Cloud Opera House continues to host theatrical and musical performances.
PRO TIP: Taking a self-guided tour of town? Download the National Willa Cather Center mobile app.
WPA Mural Panels at the Red Cloud Post Office
During the Great Depression, the WPA’s Federal Art Project commissioned artists to paint murals inside public spaces.
The WPA mural panels at the Red Cloud Post Office (310 N. Webster) by artist Archie Musik depict the white settlement of the town and the Indian tribes’ westward movement.
These stunning works of art are available to view year-round in the lobby, which is open 24 hours a day.
Red Cloud Community Center
I stopped by the Red Cloud Community Center (142 W. 3rd Avenue) during the town’s annual Light the Night Holiday Market to shop from vendors selling hand-crafted art and photography. Carolers sang as local artisans chatted with shoppers creating a delightful holiday setting.
The venue often hosts public events, so check for upcoming activities.
Webster County Historical Museum
Open April through October, the Webster County Historical Museum features exhibits on local history and has recently added a new permanent exhibit about the Starke Round Barn.
Visitors can also expect to view Victorian-era clothing, military artifacts, and collections supporting exhibits about the people and places of Webster County.
I wasn’t able to visit the museum during its off-season, but I was able to admire the home’s exterior and grounds, which includes the original water fountain that once sat at the intersection of Webster and US Highway 136.
Delicious Dining
On the Brix
Open Thursday through Saturday in the evening, On the Brix (437 Webster) serves wine, classic cocktails, craft beer, and small bites in a relaxed setting.
I arrived in Red Cloud on a Monday, and the owner of On the Brix went above and beyond, preparing a beautiful charcuterie board with an array of cheese, sausage, and fruit for me to enjoy in my guest room at Hotel Garber.
Served with a small bottle of rosé Prosecco, I felt pampered during my first evening in Red Cloud.
On the Brix also serves delicious soups and desserts, which pair nicely with seasonal cocktail menu selections, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
The Palace Lounge
If you’re craving a stacked, juicy hamburger, there’s no better place to dine than The Palace Lounge (125 W. 4th Street), and the daily lunch and dinner specials keep locals coming back.
The day’s burger special, a Mushroom & Swiss CheeseBurger with a side salad, was prepared fresh to order from an open kitchen. A lounge bar resembling something you might see in an old-school supper club served locals.
I struck up a conversation with the owners, who are die-hard live-music fans and often travel for concerts. The walls of the restaurant are covered with framed albums and guitars signed by bands like The Eagles and Def Leppard.
Sports memorabilia signed by some of the best in their sport, like Mike Tyson’s boxing gloves, adorned the walls.
The food alone is well worth stopping at The Palace Lounge, and the owner’s collection of music souvenirs makes it a true hidden gem you have to see.
PRO TIP: View the Daily Specials menu before planning your visit. Prime Rib brings a crowd on Thursday nights.
Sure-Win Shopping
Village Pharmacy
Village Pharmacy (317 N. Webster) is much more than a place to shop for your medicine cabinet needs. It offers a wide selection of gifts, from home decor to clothing and body products.
The pharmacy also sells flavored coffee and caffeinated cold tea drinks.
Mark Dahle Art Gallery / Red Cloud Film Club
Red Cloud has a vibrant artist community. At Mark Dahle Art Gallery (333 N. Webster), you’ll discover over 300 color-saturated abstract paintings and photography in an 8,000 square-foot space.
Originally from Alaska and raised by an art teacher, Dahle’s artistic style sometimes focuses on a theme, but always includes vibrant color and varying brush strokes on canvas.
PRO TIP: Also a cinephile, Dahle runs the Red Cloud Film Club at the gallery, which offers free weekly public screenings.
The Corner Nook
Stop by for a flavored latté or frothy coffee drink at The Corner Nook (345 N. Webster), and while you’re there, shop the cafe’s retail store featuring clothing, jewelry, and home decorations.
Comfortable couches and sun-drenched tables by the windows invite you to cozy up with a latté or smoothie to read a book or watch downtown traffic go by.
I met the friendliest locals when ordering a coffee, so we sat down and talked about all things Red Cloud, including what makes the town so welcoming. It’s the kind of people who look out for each other and want the best for the community, a real sense of community spirit.
Abundant Life Honey
Stop by Abundant Life Honey (209 W. 4th Avenue) to shop for locally sourced honey products run by a local family. From pocket-sized honey jars to larger bottles and individually packaged honeycomb, Abundant Life carries it.
PRO TIP: If the retail location is closed during your visit, you can find their honey for sale at Hometown Market (426 Webster) or Main Street Mercantile in nearby Lebanon, Kansas.
The Wackee Cactus Boutique
The newest store to open in Red Cloud is The Wackee Cactus Boutique (309 N. Webster), and I had the pleasure of shopping at the home decor and floral store on its grand opening night.
The owner has curated a vast selection of seasonal gift items, and the upstairs clothing racks feature women’s and children’s on-trend apparel. You’ll be shocked at the bargain pricing for the new shirts and jackets.
Events To Plan Your Trip Around
Light the Night Holiday Market
Red Cloud looks like a Hallmark greeting card during their annual Light the Night Holiday Market held in late November.
Downtown store windows are decorated, families enjoy horse-drawn carriage hayrack rides, the stores are open late, and Santa makes an appearance at Hotel Garber.
Willa Cather Spring Conference
The town’s most famous resident and award-winning author’s life is celebrated at the Willa Cather Spring Conference in June, which draws literary fans and writers to listen to speakers and attend programs.
Other tourism-worthy events include the Webster County Fair & Rodeo, located in nearby Bladen, Nebraska, and Red Cloud Street Car Days. View a complete list of upcoming Red Cloud events.
Bonus Things To Do In the Area
Alley Cats
I never miss an opportunity to lace up a pair of rental bowling shoes and take to the lanes.
Unfortunately, Alley Cats (129 E. 4th Avenue) was closed during my stay in Red Cloud, but I’m told its lanes, billiards, and restaurant meals keep the good times rolling.
View the Alley Cats Facebook page to glimpse the week’s restaurant specials.
Bison Mural
On a quest to find public art, I asked a local who passed me on the sidewalk downtown how to find the Bison Mural, and I was told to drive to the southern edge of town and look for a towering grain bin.
Sure enough, it appeared from the horizon as I traveled along Highway 281, an unmistakable point of interest. A charcoal sketch by Bethany Ugalde, an artist from Mexico, was transferred onto panels to wrap around the galvanized steel structure.
PRO TIP: You can park your car at the grain bin’s lot. Shoot a photo at sunrise or sunset.
Willa Cather Memorial Prairie
I’m from the Midwest, so the idea of standing surrounded by 612 acres of native prairie and listening to the tall buffalo grass sway and rustle in the wind is something I’ll cherish from my time in Red Cloud.
At the Willa Cather Memorial Prairie, a short drive from town, you can pull off and park to learn more about the untouched landscape and its ecosystem.
The preserved prairie is considered a National Birding Site, a home to meadowlarks, wild turkeys, and grassland sparrows.
PRO TIP: Wildflower season lasts from April through October, and two miles of trail offers breathtaking views.
Nebraska Border Sign
Across Highway 281 from the Willa Cather Memorial Prairie is the Nebraska Border Sign, welcoming newcomers to the Cornhusker State, and only six miles south of Red Cloud.
The Geographic Center of the 48 Contiguous States
If you’re traveling to Red Cloud, you must stand in The Geographic Center of the Contiguous States. A stone monument with an American flag marks the roadside attraction, recognizing this landmark at High 281 North to HWY 191 West, outside of Lebanon.
Be sure to walk inside the site’s little white chapel, which is always open. It’s the same church used in a JEEP® Super Bowl LV commercial staring rock legend Bruce Springsteen.
Nearby Towns That You Should Explore
Lebanon
Don’t miss your chance to visit Lebanon, Kansas, en route to and from Red Cloud. Just about 200 residents call the agricultural town home, welcoming visitors to view its eateries, historic jail, and restored gas station-turned visitors center.
My first stop was the Visitor Center (502 Kansas Ave), located inside a restored old gas station that is open but unmanned during daylight hours. I signed the guestbook, and picked up a complimentary Kansas road map.
Across the street, I discovered the 1910 Lebanon City Jail surrounded by green space, which locals tells me is the where the town hosts live music during the community’s Oktoberfest celebration.
Main Street Mercantile
I heard only positive things about Main Street Mercantile (415 Main Street). Part grocery store, part restaurant with a bar, it’s the go-to place for locals and visitors who will appreciate its down-home charm.
Not only does the locally owned market carry Kansas-made products and merchandise, but people drive from miles around to shop its meat selection, sourced from area beef and pork farmers.
Folks from Red Cloud raved about Main Street Mercantile’s daily lunch special, an ever-changing buffet featuring a hot main course selection with side dishes and a salad bar option. Dessert is always a wise option.
My ham dinner lunch tasted like mom’s home cooking, and at $11, it was a bargain.
PRO TIP: Weigh your buffet plates on the scale after serving yourself, then note its weight/price on the paper. Give the grocery store clerk the tab of paper to pay for your meal before departing.
Make Extra Stops on the Way Home
Nebraska
Are you staying in Nebraska? When departing Red Cloud, consider driving about 150 miles Northeast to Lincoln, Nebraska. Steal my itinerary for a weekend getaway designed for couples who seek unique experiences.
Kansas
If you’re traveling North-Central Kansas after leaving Red Cloud via I-35, use my ideas for things to do in Salina, McPherson, and Newton.
Driving east instead? Consider stops in Courtland, Scandia, or Belleville, which are three towns that offer antiquing, a brewery, the Pawnee Indian Museum, and an auto racing museum.
Founded in 1886, 
The memorial honors the miners who lost their lives in the worst mining disaster in Kansas history at the Cherokee and Pittsburg Coal and Mining Company Mine No. 2 on November 9, 1888. Family members gathered at the mine’s entrance, distraught and waiting for news about their loved ones, many of whom did not survive the dust explosion.
Whenever I approach a memorial, I vow to read every name inscribed on it, and this time was no different.
PRO TIP: Clear your calendar to attend Frontenac’s 140th birthday at Mining Days on June 5-7, 2026. The Heritage and Homecoming Celebration is an annual event featuring family-friendly activities and historical tours. Don’t miss 
Frontenac residents have a lot to be proud of, and you owe it to yourself to visit the Heritage Hall Museum at the 
Original artifacts curated from local families added a storytelling quality, enhancing the high-quality exhibits. I was amazed by the attention to detail, from the testimonials of miners to the newspaper clippings about business openings.
The history of Southeast Kansas, and Frontenac in particular, is the story of European immigrants, miners, bootleggers, religious devotees, and family members who looked out for one another and supported the community.
Walking inside the bakery, I felt as if I were a customer seeking to buy a loaf. Tools of the miner’s trade and newspaper clippings about the worst mining disaster in history adorned a room dimly lit by lanterns. A peek inside a replica chapel revealed the history of long-standing Catholic and Methodist communities.
Another aspect of the museum that makes it better than most is that the director thought to include an interactive component, adding visual and audio stations, making it more accessible for visitors. Due to the museum’s proximity to the Frontenac Public Library, its artifacts are deeply rooted in the area’s genealogy.
Former and current Frontenac residents will relish the displays featuring curated Raiders memorabilia. Peering inside the displays, it was as if I could hear the football players and cheerleaders rooting for the Raiders to win the high school’s first-ever state football championship over Stockton in 1994.
Visiting the Heritage Hall Museum, located inside the Frontenac Public Library, is well worth it, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural legacy and mining history of Frontenac and the greater Southeast Kansas region.
The locally owned coffee shop sells 
During my visit, a steady stream of locals came and went, accompanied by music playing from a Bluetooth speaker.
The dining room was already filled with locals when I stopped by on a weekday for a midday meal of boneless chicken wings coated in Sully Sauce. With my choice of side dish, my meal was appetizing and one I’d order again.
On Saturday nights, Shooters Neighborhood Bar & Grill is a popular hangout attracting diners seeking the Chef’s Choice special. Happy Hour specials are served Monday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
And for the kids (and young-at-heart), there’s a self-serve candy station, perfect for mixing and matching your favorite sweets by the pound. It’s the ultimate sugar-fueled pit stop for your Kansas adventure.
I would refer to the shop’s 
In addition to slicing deli meat by the order, refrigerated glass cases house homemade sausage, pasta meals, and pre-made sandwiches. A few tables provide a place for lunch-goers to sit down and savor a panini prepared with bread from the local bakery.
Open to the public and Tap Elite, Plus, and Choice Members, TapNPaddles makes it easy to r
After a fun game of pickleball, we cooled off with a District 96 Strawberry Blonde Ale by Norton’s Brewing at the TapNPaddles 
The pickleball venue is located next door to 
The locally-owned liquor store works with distributors to carry a vast selection of well-known brands, and I was pleased to find spirits on the shelf produced by Wichita makers, including Una Vida Tequila and Greatness Vodka.
The store’s owner helped me located the perfect bottle of dry red wine to take back to the hotel. As shoppers came and went, I noticed how she knew what some of the regular customers wanted before they located it.
K96 Liquor is one-stop shopping if you’re seeking a variety of wine, beer or spirits to purchase for your next gathering with friends or family. And if you’re a guest at someone’s party, consider purchasing one of the pre-boxed bottles that come in gift-worthy packaging.
PRO TIP: Inquire about holiday-themed gift sets.
Newly renovated, the boutique hotel has a swimming pool with outdoor seating and fire pits, views of a lake, and a swanky hangout, W xyz® Bar. Aloft Wichita is not another hotel. It’s a vibe.
The lobby is home to games (Ms. Pac-Man, anyone?), a complimentary coffee station, and a sunken lounge area where a musician plays music on Tuesday evenings, the same night W xyz® Bar serves a taco and margarita special.
After check-in, we sipped District 96 Strawberry Blonde Ale by Nortons Brewing Company at the bar to the sounds of live music. The lobby was filled with hotel guests and drop-in locals who socialized from velvety, stylish couches and around a billiards table. Business travelers worked from laptops at a central desk area.
Later, we explored the hotel’s art gallery by Envision, which displays remarkable works completed by Wichita artists with vision loss. The breathtaking collections change throughout the year.
Guests who want to make the most of the available amenities during the day will appreciate the fitness facility’s collection of state-of-the-art machines and weights.
When it’s time to slumber, one can count on Aloft Wichita’s beds to be some of the most comfortable ones thanks to soft Marriott Bonvoy® bedding and blackout curtains guaranteeing a good night’s sleep.
In the morning, the Re:Fuel by Aloft℠ grab-and-go yogurt with fruit cups or hot breakfast menu is open for early-morning bites. My preference? The OG B.E.C Sandwich served on a Brioche Bun.
Wichita’s 
To set the mood, we ordered an Indigo N Ginger and Keepers Heart Old Fashioned from a cocktail menu consisting of eight drink options. A beer and wine list equally impressed.
In a city with many Lebanese restaurants, we agreed that Chef Rickard’s Roasted Mushroom Hummus was some of the best we’ve tasted, and the Labeneh and Muhammara served with warm pita bread were award-worthy.
NOTE: If the waitstaff asks what kind of water you want to drink with dinner service, inquire about pricing.
Participating is as easy as 
The quality of the game simulator’s censors combined with the multitude of games was better than any indoor sports simulator venue I’ve experienced. And the food menu? Think elevated game day food.
I especially enjoyed unwinding after gaming with a Dubai Chocolate Martini and Azalea Martini as a golf tournament aired from bar-side television. The bartender’s inventive cocktail recipes are well-balanced.
Chef Gandhi-Rue’s scratch-made pasta entreés are irresistible, and I liked customizing my pasta by adding bacon, mushroom, and chicken. Another hearty meal, the Thai Bowl is one I’ve ordered repeatedly over the years, much like the Fajita Bowl.
From catching a live concert at The Fox Theatre to sipping wine or browsing the
And the historic neighborhood is the ideal place to take a self-guided tour. A stop on the 
After my stay, it was easy to understand why guest book entries raved about the property and why it’s rated on 
I curled up with a blanket to watch a movie on the large sectional sofa using available Roku streaming, a comfy place to unwind when I wasn’t exploring Downtown Hays. The owner even left microwave popcorn and a handwritten note thanking me for “popping in” at Walnut Wonder.
The home’s amenities are top-notch, and because the hosts considered a guest’s stay, I didn’t need anything. If you’re seeking like-home lodging with comfortable amenities, reserve 
Norman, who has nearly four decades of floral arrangement expertise, and his staff create custom arrangements for any occasion. Shoppers seeking gift-worthy items will be pleased to find an array of beautiful home decor items. The seasonal floral displays at the front of the store’s front windows wow passersby.
I appreciate when a clothier thoughtfully selects on-trend women’s apparel brands, and Simply Charmed carries a range of sizes up to 2X. Shopping for your children or grandkids? Pair a coveted Jellycat stuffed animal with an outfit as a gift. Sizes range from newborn to 7.
Refine is one of 115 national Liverpool destination stores that carry the jeans brand, One can expect to find clothing sizes 2-16, handbags, and shoes by well-known names such as Joseph Ribkoff, Katie Loxton, and Sorel.
The owner informed me she is closing her doors in January 2026, so she is offering mega discounts on select inventory items housed in a showroom upstairs. In the meantime, one can shop for seasonal decor or gifts for special occasions during regular business hours.
Beautiful, shimmering diamonds captured the overhead lights from beneath glass. The men’s wedding bands, available in a range of styles and metals, equally garnered the attention of shoppers. Couples hoping to find the perfect engagement rings and wedding bands will be pleased with the jewelry options.
I was impressed with how well the volunteers organized the inventory by category: clothing, household items, books, toys, and seasonal costumes and decorations.
Customers eagerly filled carts with donated garments and household supplies as I walked the aisles. A little girl tested out a small bicycle while a mother and son searched for pants in his size. Expect the store to be particularly busy on Saturdays.
If you think you know what you want but need design advice, Karen and her team are happy to chat with you in the Design Room with access to fabric and wood samples.
Aside from offering long-arm quilting services and classes, shoppers will be delighted to discover kits, fabric, batting, notions, thread, and patterns available for purchase.
I stopped by to select Le Grand chocolate truffles after a day of shopping downtown. The staff eagerly told me their favorite flavors, which were tempting, but I settled on a delectable white chocolate apple pie truffle.
The store’s candy bouquets include a variety of chocolate bars and hard candy designed for the sweet tooth in your life.
Instead of men skipping a Main Street shopping experience, the store caters to them with a wide selection of casual wear suitable for any season. Also, the store doubles as a tuxedo rental shop for one’s more formal occasions.
Donated furniture is restored and improved to become one-of-a-kind pieces. Beautiful artwork is created for the home. Each purchased piece is a compliment to the individuals who create them.
New products are added weekly. Women who prefer to shop for the latest in women’s fashions online can do so via the 
The shop’s owner had such success with her online shop that she decided to open a downtown Hays location. Trust me, you’ll want to swap your closet staples for selections from Azalea’s Avenue Boutique.
While sipping a Wicked Pickle Bloody Mary, the sound of the doorbell chimed as small groups arrived to dine. If you prefer lunch fare, order a sandwich with Kettle® chips to enjoy al fresco at a patio table.
While the French Onion Soup’s caramelized onions with cheese in a beef broth were rich in flavor, it was served so hot that I needed to wait to eat it. The refreshing pomegranate mocktail cooled my palate.
My order of Tacos De Barbacoa was served with tender, shredded beef, which I topped with an avocado cream sauce. I’m eager to return for dinner to try the day’s special with one of the five margaritas available.
PRO TIP: Don’t leave without eating dessert. The Tres Leches cake is a shareable, moist slice of heaven served with drizzled chocolate sauce.
I started my meal with appetizers: crab rangoon and salted edamame, followed by the day’s special, Golden State Rolls.
The crab-stuffed sushi rolls were presented on a dinner-size plate drizzled with eel sauce and Japanese mayonnaise. Each roll was large enough that I had to cut it in half.
The night of a concert at The Fox Theatre, I found one seat left at the bar for a pre-show German-style ale. Steaks, pasta dishes, and chicken entrees dominate the menu. I recommend the Smothered Bierock served with chips, a must if visiting Kansas for the first time.
Create your ice cream combination or order from a menu of signature selections. When in doubt, order the Founder’s Favorite®, and then watch as an employee mixes pecans, brownie, fudge, and caramel into sweet cream vanilla ice cream on a cold granite table.
During November, the Hays Arts Council hosts Block Party on the Bricks, an art auction featuring live music and art demonstrations to fundraise. At springtime, the galleries feature the Smoky Hill juried exhibition, which is an anchor event for the Spring Art Work.
The owner provides 
The multi-level building houses a spacious art gallery, and patrons are welcomed to help themselves to complimentary coffee while lounging with a book or magazine in a sun-drenched window seat.
PRO TIP: If you’re a Kansan or curious about the state’s history, venture downtown stairs to the Kansas Room. It contains a large inventory of books about the Sunflower State.
Other services provided at the spa include facials, light therapy, laser hair removal and waxing as well as lip fillers and Botox. View the services and reserve an appointment 
I photographed most of them while walking downtown, but you’ll likely want to drive to the few murals that are painted on buildings beyond Main Street.
Use the 
Over the years, I’ve increasingly loved his work, noticing how many of Felten’s masterpieces showcase animals, often tucked away at a sculpture’s base or hidden from view in the back.
You’ll be amazed at the Hays artist’s handiwork using a hammer and chisel to carefully carve away limestone sourced from the region. Learn about 28 sculptures in Hays and surrounding towns and view a map 
Supporting local is paramount for me, which is why I chose to get to know the Svaty’s Produce farm family before buying a melon from them.
PRO TIP: Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee, courtesy of 
They packed the theatre with country music fans on a lively Saturday night who sang along with hits from their album, Strange Hours.
Walk the alley behind the museum, also known as Shinbone Alley, to appreciate more of Felten’s carvings, which are also evident in benches on the museum’s grounds.
The museum is open four days a week, and it often hosts traveling exhibits. Its retail shop includes Volga German apparel, books, and gifts.
Use the 
It’s worth hopping back into the car and making the short drive to 
Downtown Hays at The Bricks blends history and hospitality with a variety of entertaining things to do, proving that a small town can deliver big energy. It’s one of my favorite Kansas walkable districts for its shops, restaurants, and vibrant 
Built in 1910, the renovated loft space beautifully showcases the historic building’s architecture, from its brick-exposed walls to the original wood floors. The 1,600 square foot, two-bedroom, one bath loft sleeps four guests.
You’ll appreciate the private parking with front door or back door self-entry keypad access. Once inside, it feels like home with amenities such as a washer and dryer, full kitchen, streaming television channels, Bluetooth compatible speakers, and high-speed WiFi.
A bonus room includes a poker table and additional couch with television for lounging with friends or family.
The bathroom, designed with his and her sinks, is spacious and includes in-shower products. Plush body-size towels and a motion detector for the overhead light are added touches you don’t always find in a vacation rental.
Pro Tip: Shop the loft owner’s store, 
PRO TIP: Don’t expect to be able to check in early to your room, but instead, ask if the hotel will hold your bags until 4 pm check-in.
It sits as short walk on campus from the bronze gorilla sculpture in front of PSU’s Student Center.
PRO TIP: Use the 
If you choose to play the 18-hole course, expect the wooded areas to offer a bit of a challenge. The course is a mix of open fields and covered trails. All 18 holes are a par 3. Are you ready for a game?
The family-friendly urban park welcomes musicians after dark on Friday nights, and they host other events like movie nights on occasion. Come early to grab a table. I recommend purchasing a snack or a beer at the permanent food stand or ordering from the menu of a food truck.
Visitors to The Greenway who craft a craft cocktail can stop inside 
Shoppers will also appreciate its high-quality grooming supplies, candles, shoes, and shelves of on-trend ballcaps. I couldn’t leave without a beer logo t-shirt and stylish socks.
The shop becomes a performance venue when they 
Committed to adopting out the cats in their care using a strict vetting process, I was impressed with the store’s mission to provide cats and book lovers a space where they could relax and get to know one another.
As I shopped, I watched as a new pet parent returned with a cat carrier to take her pet home. The staff was elated for the owner and her feline family member.
The store carries books of every genre from bestselling titles to juvenile fiction and young reader must-haves. And like any business that favors felines, they stock an array of merchandise for shoppers smitten with kittens, such as stickers, bookmarks, and apparel.
The massive warehouse was filled to the brim with antiques from every decade. Love depression glass? College memorabilia? Old watches? You can find all of it and more tucked inside the booth spaces of Paradise Mall Antiques.
As I made my way through the store, I noticed many of the booths’ contents showcase the vendor’s preference in antiques. Sometimes you have to bend down, look around, and dig through a box to find a buried treasure. Paradise Mall Antiques is where you go shopping for yourself and that hard to buy for friend or relative.
Serving happy customers since 2019, the brewpub prides itself on its multiple beer taps and New York-style pizza selection prepared in a brick oven.
The brunch selections are a draw but the lunch and dinner classics paired with a thoughtfully crafted cocktail have earned the eatery high praise. To my surprise, each dining experience starts with complementary chipotle seasoned popcorn.
Menu selections during my dining experience exceeded my expectations for beautiful plating, quality, and value. Appetizers like Almost Deviled Eggs or the Warm House Ricotta and Garlic with sourdough are guaranteed good bites.
At meal time, dig into tasty Avocado Smoked Salmon Toast or a dinner-size Grilled Cajun Shrimp Salad served with a zesty house-made dressing.
The owner/chef’s creativity shines with the For the Boys whiskey and honey cocktail, and any of her after-dinner desserts with creamy gelato are sure-fire wins.
PRO TIP: Watch my 
Whether you’re in the mood for a cold beer, hot coffee, or fruit smoothie, the cozy watering hold delivers. Come hungry and enjoy affordable meals like a Walking Taco, Philly Cheesesteak, or a Turkey Wrap. I found a shaded spot under a patio table’s umbrella to relax.
Deep blue walls flanked by a dark wood bar welcome guests as jazz standards play in the background. The bartender hummed the melody as he prepared a Lemon Tea Fizz prepared with house-made syrup, a cocktail you won’t find on any other menu in town.
PRO TIP: The bar opens at 5 pm. on Wednesday-Saturday. Arrive early to claim the best seat or be prepared to order your drink in a to-go cup to drink on 
But you’ll find more than beverages on the menu as the owners are culinary pros using their skills to prepare pastries and crepes daily as well as breakfast handhelds like a waffle or bagel sandwich. At lunchtime, ask about bread bowls, quesadillas, and protein and veggie-packed sandwich wraps.
The tradition of serving full-flavor fried chicken began when two women opened restaurants on the same street catering to hungry coal miners during all hours, and it was a way to support unemployed, disabled men enduring the hardships of the Great Depression. A competition between two restaurants led to more fried chicken houses opening in the region.
Each restaurant is recommendable, and my favorite spot is a 22-minute drive northeast of Pittsburg to 
On Mondays, a line forms at Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinner door. The draw? Chicken and noodles.
In the mood for a live show? 
In Sweden (and Lindsborg!), families celebrate Lördagsgodis, which translates to “Saturday Sweets.” This tradition originated in the 1950s, becoming a way for children to look forward to enjoying special candies on the weekend.
So, it’s no surprise that the store became busy with families and visitors from out of town. I perused the shelves of Nordic chocolate bars and hand-crafted fudge, and I spotted a reach-in refrigerator of Grandpa Joe’s sodas and canned fizzy drinks.
I was in candy heaven, scooping a mix of Swedish fish, licorice, and soft watermelon bars into a to-go container. The variety of candy types, including ropes, salted candy, and soft foam treats, was unlike anything I’d seen before.
Visitors to the store will appreciate that Swedish candy doesn’t use artificial dyes for color. The owner also thoughtfully stocks gluten-free candy.
The owner arrives before dawn to place nut-covered sticky buns, fruit scones, flaky pastries, and towering cinnamon rolls in the baker’s case.
For seekers of Swedish treats, I recommend ordering a slice of Kringle. The layered Scandinavian dessert is a pastry topped with sliced almonds and drizzled with confectioner’s sugar frosting. All of the sweet treats are made by hand, even the lunchtime bierocks.
During my return visit, I noticed the owner greeting regular customers by name, asking if they wanted their usual order of baked goodness. Eager to chat about my yummy blueberry coffee cake, other customers and I agreed 
PRO TIP: The pecan-covered sticky buns are a locals’ favorite, so make Smoky Valley Bakery an early stop on your sweet eats experience.
A fan of lingonberries, which are Scandinavian cranberries, I recommend ordering the Det Bästa croissant sandwich. It’s served warm with layers of Gouda cheese, turkey, bacon, and a thick layer of lingonberries jam.
I also recommend the sweet yet tangy Lingonberry Lemonade served over ice, a thirst quencher on a spring or summer day.
Pro Tip: After ordering at the counter, walk to the back patio to relax at a table under the grapevine-covered pergola to the backdrop of a trickling water fountain.
The aroma of handmade waffle cones greets you as you walk the brick pathway to the ice cream shop, which resembles an outdoor European patio.
Whether you prefer a cup, cone, sundae or ice cream sandwich, Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream’s flavorful selections will be a highlight of your Lindsborg visit. They also sell ice cream cupcakes, pies, and pints of available flavors.
Choose from flavors such as Blacksmith Coffee, Ligonberry Swirl, Kringler, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Key Lime Pie. Locals and visitors can enjoy a sweet treat six days a week, and the shop stays open late.
I’ve ordered coffee and breakfast at Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery countless times, and one of their standout menu items is the warm berry cobbler served in a cast-iron skillet–ice cream is optional.
If you’re in the mood for a cold drink to take with you for breakfast or a midday treat, order the slightly sweet Lingonberry Smoothie with whipped cream. Take the totable drink with you as you stroll Main Street to shop locally owned boutiques.
PRO TIP: Avoid the morning rush. Order your food for quick pick-up 
The refrigerated baker’s case houses nearly a dozen pies and cakes baked fresh daily by the owner’s daughter.
I took my server’s suggestion and tried the old-fashioned Coconut Cream Pie. The thick, creamy coconut filling, topped with a mound of fluffy whipped cream and flaked coconut, satisfied.
Crown and Rye prepares fruit pies and cream-filled pies, so you will likely find a flavor you are craving. Additionally, individually wrapped homemade cookies are available for the road trip home.
PRO TIP: The 
One of my go-to selections is Nyakers Ginger Snaps, referred to as pepparkakor in Swedish. Traditionally served during winter, I eat the spicy, crunchy cookies year-round. The Swedish foods section of the store is well-stocked with imported spices, should you decide to prepare Swedish cuisine at home.
Savvy shoppers know to look inside the refrigerated reach-in coolers for traditional favorites, including frozen pies and tea ring cakes.
Don’t walk by end-of-the-aisle displays without getting a glimpse of packaged candy, ranging from salted licorice and Nordic fine chocolate bars.
And of course, you should not leave White’s Foodliner without purchasing a couple of jars of lingonberries. I add the tangy fruit spread to open-faced breakfast toast, pancakes, and charcuterie boards.
It is a Scandinavian tradition to enjoy a social coffee break, referred to as Fika, accompanied by sweet pastries. I love the thought of inviting my loved ones over for conversation over coffee and cookies.
Hemsjöld’s inventory not only includes imported cookies and culinary spices, but an extensive collection of coffee cups and pretty tableware for your Fika-themed gatherings.
Translated in Swedish to Sweet Dreams, the Dröm Sött Inn’s accommodations exceed my expectations every time I stay there.
The rooms are impeccably clean, and the plush bedding is so soft it feels like you’re sleeping on a cloud. (People adore the sheets so much, they sell bedding sets in the gift shop.) Quiet hours guarantee a good night’s slumber.
At check-in, guests are given two meal selections, and my choice this time was the Swedish pancakes served with warm maple syrup and a side of requested lingonberry sauce. Similar to crepes, the kitchen staff prepares them one at a time over a hot griddle in view of the dining room.
Last but not least, guests are gifted a homemade soft sugar cookie in the shape of a Dala horse as a parting gift. But since you know about the cookie gift, request it during your stay to enjoy with a glass of complementary wine in the inn’s secluded Wine Shelter.
I’ve also compiled 
The area is known for its 
Whether you’re sipping lingonberry lemonade on a sunny patio or savoring sticky buns at sunrise, your self-guided sweet eats tour promises memorable bites and cozy small-town moments.
If you’re searching for the best desserts in 
