Disclosure: Finney County Convention and Visitors Bureau sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
Garden City is a Kansas town that deserves attention for a long list of fun things to do, so much so that you’ll likely need to stay overnight or for the weekend.
From unforgettable immersive experiences to a melting pot of cultures evident in its dining scene, Garden City should be at the top of every Kansas traveler’s bucket list. As the largest city in Finney County, you’ll never run out of interesting places to explore.
I had a blast taking in Garden City’s attractions and getting to know fellow Kansans.
UNWIND AT LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS
The older, restored homes in Garden City are so visually appealing that many people choose to take the historic homes tour, which is offered every other year by the Finney County Historical Society and the Finney County Women’s Chamber of Commerce.
Built in 1909, Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast‘s Victorian architecture transports overnight guests back in history while offering modern-day comforts.
SUNNYLAND BED AND BREAKFAST
Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast (501 N. 5th Street #5633) is a highly-rated vacation rental with Victorian charm providing guests a complimentary breakfast.
Upon arrival, I walked the downstairs parlor and adjacent dining room, admiring the owner’s meticulous restoration of turn-of-the-century woodwork.
A gorgeous tiled fireplace is an anchor in the sitting room amongst period furnishings.
The dining room’s tablescape was beautifully set with an artful arrangement of seasonal plates, flatware, and decorations. The owner prides herself on updating the table decorations often.
Original stained glass windows drew my eye to an ascending staircase, where private guest rooms awaited – each one named after a Bible verse. My queen bedroom, including a twin bed and private bathroom, was painted lavender and decorated with Victorian decorative touches, including handkerchiefs and florals.
After a restful night’s sleep, I joined other guests in the dining room for breakfast. The meal started with juice and coffee before a Monte Cristo-style croissant breakfast sandwich served with homemade jam was served.
Overall, my overnight stay at Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast was a delightful experience and one I’d recommend to travelers who seek unique accommodations and personable service. I enjoyed getting to know the owners, who live on-site, and socializing with other guests during the meal.
PRO TIP: You can choose to have your meal delivered to your room for an extra fee.
Reserve your stay at Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast.
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES YOU WON’T FORGET
THE PAINT PLACE
Give yourself permission to be creative at The Paint Place (209 N. 7th Street), which offers people a chance to cut loose and have fun inside The Splatter Room. My group created individual masterpieces, splattering washable paint under black lights while listening to high-energy music.
Dressed in protective gear, we laughed as splattered paint was flicked with careless abandon – unlike any paint studio experience I had yet. The session took about 30 minutes, and afterward, I left with a cute gift for my five-year-old niece.
The family-owned paint studio also offers walk-in and reservable paint-from-a-design sessions like Boozy Art Club Paint Night. The large rooms are ideal for hosting kids’ birthdays, double date nights, or gal pal parties. Artists can bring their own snacks and drinks, including wine and beer.
PRO TIP: View upcoming events at the studio, including additional happenings in partnership with Hidden Trail Brewing.
LEE RICHARDSON ZOO
Free to explore, Lee Richardson Zoo (312 E. Finnup Drive) is one of the best small zoos I’ve explored in the state. As I embarked on an early-morning self-guided tour, I heard wild animals calling one another and a lion’s roar got my attention.
The size of the zoo and its variety of wildlife exceeds one’s expectations. While you can drive-thru the zoo for a fee, I recommend walking the grounds to each exhibit stopping to rest at designated benches when the mood strikes.
If you arrive during the animals’ breakfast feeding time, you’ll see an endangered black rhino, a main wolf, and an Amur Leopard actively moving about the enclosures. A Sarus Crane’s loud calls competed for my attention while a mal Addax African Lion roared his morning welcome atop a rock.
Sensory-accessible zoo areas are marked on a map, identifying loud and quiet places.
For me, the most enjoyable part of visiting a zoo is watching the giraffes. One reticulated giraffe in particular didn’t seem to mind me watching it strip bark from branches for several minutes before it joined its giraffe family.
You can expect to see native and exotic animals, ranging from the smallest invertebrates to large mammals. The river otters were not outdoors during my visit, so I can’t wait to return to see them at play in the water.
ESCAPE THE CLOCK
Test your puzzle-solving skills at Escape The Clock (124 N. Main Street #5458) with friends or family members before time runs out. First, choose the thematic room and challenge level.
Then, work together to figure out codes that reveal clues or unlock boxes with additional clues. The key to escaping the room before the one-hour time limit expires is to keep it simple.
My group escaped the clock with 52 seconds to spare inside Sunken Secrets, a deep-sea research submersible in peril. The two-room submarine was well-designed and kept our attention through each step until we successfully resurfaced.
The clue master had to help us a few times over the room’s speaker, but we solved it.
Afterward, we signed our group’s names on the wall with our ending time and snapped a photo to mark the occasion.
Each room design impressed with its details and storyline, and most of the rooms are appropriate for all ages. Walk-ins are welcome; however, you can preview room details and reserve a session online or via phone.
FINNEY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Touring the Finney County Historical Museum (403 S. 4th Street) and its True Crime exhibit is another worthwhile experience you must include during your visit.
It showcases timelines, actual evidence, and donated artifacts detailing several notorious crimes in the county, such as the 1959 Clutter murder case, inspiring author Truman Capote to write the novel, “In Cold Blood” about the deaths of the Herb and Bonnie Clutter family at the hands of prison parolees Richard Hickock and Perry Smith.
You’ll also learn about the Fleagle Gang, bank robbers, and murderers of the 1920s by criminals Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, Bonnie Parker, and Clyde Barrow. The temporary exhibit remains viewable due to its popularity.
Other museum areas are equally fascinating, detailing the county’s prominent people and industries. Start a self-guided tour in a room highlighting the area’s earliest residents, Native Americans. (Don’t miss the mammoth tusk!)
Meander into the main gallery to uncover historical facts about Buffalo Jones, a man who settled on 160 acres of ranch land in the area who worked with the town’s founders to convince two railroads, the Atchison-Topeka and the Santa Fe, to stop in Garden City.
A curious learner, I was intrigued by other exhibits, such as the 19th-Century Kitchen, Santa Fe Trail, Finney County Agriculture, and Take Stock in Finney County, that explain the area’s prolific cattle industry.
I’ve toured innumerable county museums, and this one is one of the best for its overall design and rotating exhibits.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss The World’s Largest Hairball removed from a cow’s stomach on display at the museum’s welcome desk. View the museum’s seasonal hours before making the drive.
FLOURISH HERBALS & AROMATHERAPY
Sometimes, you need to pause the hustle of travel to relax and unwind. Flourish Herbals & Aromatherapy (203 E. Laurel Street) is the place to do just that. You can purchase dried herbals by ounce to incorporate into recipes or home remedies, and you can enjoy a flavorful hot or iced tea prepared at the tea bar.
Additionally, the staff is ready to assist you in creating aromatic bath products or a room spritzer at the Blending Bar. After a few minutes inside the retail store, you naturally feel your shoulders relax, and with the owner’s guidance, you learn what herbals and essential oils best suit your needs.
I thoroughly enjoyed a 60-minute relaxation massage, which included red light therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Afterward, I felt less stressed and my mood lifted. My hope is that you make time for yourself as well.
View the massage menu and pricing.
SHOP LIKE A LOCAL FOR TREASURES
After the railroad established itself in Garden City, the population of Southwest Kansas grew, and its downtown offerings appealed to people passing through town as they do today. Today, thriving downtown Garden City attracts people who prefer to shop and dine locally.
THE CORNER ON MAIN
Every town needs a store like The Corner on Main (324 N. Main Street). A third-generation business, the boutique offers various home decor, gifts, jewelry, baby products, and specialty food items. You could spend an hour shopping here.
My heart beat faster with excitement as I discovered item after item I wanted to purchase. Drink mixes, Kansas-made jarred products, lovely pillows, and jewelry with inspirational messaging. I left for home with a bag of goodies, and I suspect you will too.
SAGEHOUSE BATH & BODY
Nearby, SageHouse Bath & Body (312 N. Main Street) sells handmade soap, bath products, and home fragrances you can’t live without. Using goat’s milk, the owner’s handcrafted soaps are okay for even the most sensitive skin types for men or women. As the name implies, one will also discover purifying sage available.
If you’re unsure which scented body product to purchase, the owner will help you determine a signature scent. When in doubt, the most purchased soap fragrances are Black Raspberry Vanilla and Kansas Sunset. Each one smelled natural and not overly perfumey.
PRO TIP: Inquire about SageHouse Bath & Body‘s individualized services such as an ion foot cleanse, red light therapy, salt therapy, and ear seeds.
BONUS RETAIL STORES TO SHOP
My itinerary for the day was tightly scheduled, so I missed visiting a couple of stores. I look forward to returning to downtown Garden City to shop at Klaus Wood Pellets & Outdoor Living and Main Street Market Hub.
EXPLORE PUBLIC ART & GALLERIES
HISTORIC STATUES
You’ll want to appreciate the historic statuary designed to beautify and educate passersby along Main Street and beyond.
If it wasn’t for Charles Jesse “Buffalo” Jones, Garden City wouldn’t be what it is today. A towering statue of the plainsman rests on the Finney County Courthouse lawn. Read the panel inscriptions to learn more about his legacy.
In patriotic fashion, the courthouse lawn is also home to a Little Sisters of Liberty replica statue, one of over 200 like it across the United States. In 1950, the Boy Scouts of America local chapter installed it as part of a national crusade emphasizing liberty and freedom.
Across the street, an oversized rustic metal sculpture resembling a geometric buffalo stands at attention. Stop here for a quick photograph before exploring the rest of the downtown area’s sculptures.
PRO TIP: Garden City’s walkable historical home tour is worthy of consideration if you appreciate architecture. View the locations.
MAGNIFICENT MURAL
A town that celebrates the arts by installing a mural conveys a happy personality. The Monarch Butterfly Mural (310 N 7th Street) represents a new life and the plant life is meant to reflect the town’s name and the diverse people who call Garden City home.
Look closely and you’ll see the stages of a butterfly’s life cycle. A local told me the city plans on adding an AI interactive component to the mural making it an engaging experience for those who stop to enjoy it.
GARDEN CITY ARTS
No other place in town honors the talents of makers and creators as much as Garden City Arts (318 N Main Street), a non-profit organization benefiting the community.
Stop in to view current art exhibits or inquire about taking a pre-enrolled single-session class. Walk-ins are welcomed if available spots are open.
I was happy to learn that not only is much of the gallery’s artwork is for sale, ranging from glass creations to paintings, but more creations are on exhibit at various locations around town.
PRO TIP: Garden City organizes public works of art projects, and you can contribute to them, so be sure to view the gallery’s events calendar.
SIP & SAVOR AROUND TOWN
PATRICK DUGAN’S
When craving a wake-me-up cup of coffee or a mid-day Italian soda, visit Main Street mainstay Patrick Dugan’s (301 N. Main Street). Since 2008, it’s served as a community gathering place for small groups chatting up about the day’s happenings and remote workers who make use of the Wi-Fi to get projects done.
I love a carefully crafted cup of java (they use Kansas-made PT’s Coffee Roaster’s Flying Monkey Espresso), but on the day of my visit I was craving a refreshing iced Italian soda. Its cherry lime flavor quenched my thirst.
If you’re visiting during morning hours, refer to the breakfast sandwich menu and don’t miss the seasonal specialty drinks offerings.
MILK & HONEY AT THE FLIGHT DECK
As a pilot’s girlfriend, I know something about flying into airports to appreciate on-field restaurant fare, and Milk & Honey at the Flight Deck (2215 S. Air Service Road) is certainly worth the trip to Garden City Airport. You don’t have to be a pilot to enjoy their elevated breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu items with views of the tarmac.
The cinnamon roll pancakes arrived stacked and covered with copious vanilla-flavored icing, which I’d recommend for diners with a sweet tooth.
I spied other savory breakfast items at fellow guests’ tables, such as shrimp and grits, biscuits and gravy, and a crab cake club. Maybe you’re craving eggs benedict? You’re in the right place.
Illuminated by sunshine from floor-to-ceiling windows facing the airport’s runway, the restaurant is also a go-to Sunday brunch destination. Seasonal menu items are highlighted on their Facebook page. No reservation is required.
CASA MARIACHI
Mega margaritas, sizzling tacos, and smothered burritos are some of the delectable menu items at Casa Mariachi (125 W Pine Street). But first, sample their chips and salsa, which are some of the best in the state.
Chomp chips while you peruse the six-page menu and listen to Mexican dance music over the speakers.
After careful consideration, I chose a pork burrito smothered in green verde sauce and white queso. My server helped me find what I was craving on the menu, and I was pleased with the pork’s soft texture and savory spices.
Whether you’re visiting Casa Mariachi for a lunch or dinner date or watching soccer while devouring a scrumptious meal, the festive vibe and menu selections deliver a party vibe.
TRADITIONS SODA & SANDWICH SHOP
To visit Garden City without stopping at Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop (121 W. Grant Avenue) would be a crime. A Garden City original since 1925, a throwback menu showcasing 5-cent root beer, tin ceilings, and an old-fashioned soda fountain are nostalgic throwbacks.
Claim a booth or a counter barstool during lunch or dinner hours to order a made-to-order burger with fries and a thick chocolate malt or shake. I recommend sitting at the counter to see a view of the bustling kitchen staff.
Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop remains a hometown favorite. Regular customers are recognized by name, and locals stop by for to-go orders. Not many old-fashioned soda fountain counters remain in Kansas, and this one is well worth the visit.
PRO TIP: Borrow a Garden City yearbook from the restaurant’s collection and flip pages while you dine.
NAPOLIS ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Do yourself a favor and dine at Napolis Italian Restaurant (2204 E. Kansas Avenue #5) for traditional Italian chicken entreés, pizza, and sizzling baked pasta dishes rich in flavor.
If you partake in a pre-dinner drink, ask your server for the wine menu or select from an imported beer list. During my dinner-time visit, I found the service attentive and friendly.
The house salad was good, and while I enjoyed the balsamic dressing and crunchy lettuce, it left me wishing it had less cheese and more sliced vegetables. But it was okay because the star of the dinner was the baked ziti pasta served bubbling hot.
The cheese stretched with every sauce-coated bite, making it a rave-worthy meal. Regretfully, I was too full from my meal to enjoy cheesecake or a cannoli, but that’s just another reason to return.
PRO TIP: The restaurant posts meal discounts and themed dinner nights to its Facebook regularly, so follow the page to stay in the know.
HIDDEN TRAIL BREWING
Hidden Trail Brewing (2010 E Schulman Avenue) isn’t just another Kansas brewery. Since 2021, it’s been a place where community and visitors alike can hang out and feel welcomed, including families with kids and dog owners who want to relax with a craft beer on the patio.
Unlike other breweries I’ve visited, Hidden Trail Brewing hosts live music and a food truck and encourages people to bring a cake and decorations for an impromptu celebration.
The brewery uses a large, on-site production facility. Three flagship pours are served on tap, and the remaining nine taps are reserved for rotators. The bartender told me the brewery’s gluten-free Wicked West Cider is popular with regulars.
The evening of my visit, an acoustic original songwriter sang while newcomers milled about chatting with friends. I appreciate the brewery wide selection of beer types choosing best-selling El Compadre, a adjunct lager, and maltier Irish ale, Clurichaun.
BONUS PLACES TO SIP & SAVOR
Time ran out before I could sit down for a meal at Hannah’s Corner (comfort food) or Baron’s Steakhouse & Bar (American cuisine), which my host highly recommended. Locals tell me karaoke night at Loving’s Moon bar brings down the house on Saturday nights.
IF YOU HAVE EXTRA TIME
GARDEN RAPIDS AT THE BIG POOL
Garden Rapids at the Big Pool (504 E Maple Street) is the end-all-be-all of public swimming pools with multiple areas for aquatic fun. Endurance swimmers will appreciate the competitive lap pool, while families with kids are likely to gravitate to the elephant slide, Otter Rapids or Dolphin Dive.
If the outdoors is more your mode, consider playing 18 holes at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course or Southwind Golf Course. Prefer to see nature from two wheels? Ride your bike along the Talley Trail greenway.
No matter the itinerary, you can make unlimited happy memories exploring Garden City, a Southwest Kansas destination sure to exceed your expectations.
I’m not a regular disc golf player and I’m definitely still learning how to throw. But my boyfriend is an avid player, so I’ve walked countless courses, interviewed a course designer for the blog, and I’ve attended a tournament to observe how the pros play.
Please consider this list a starter guide to disc golf courses in Sunflower State. Of course, for a comprehensive list, consult the 
Serious disc golfers travel from afar to compete in the 
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.
Disc golfers can expect a course that winds through shaded tree canopies, opening to picturesque views of the 80-acre lake. Concrete tee boxes and manicured fairways make ringing chains a delight.
The golf course is located close to public restaurants, drinking water, and a hiking path.
Part of the thrill of playing the amateur course is pausing to spot black squirrels running up and down trees amongst the fairways.
The moderately challenging course is designed among beautiful trees of nearly every variety. Concrete tee pads and highly visible red baskets make it idyllic for a round of 18 holes.
Due to the 12-acre lake, novice players will find a couple of holes challenging, so I recommend they pack a retriever or floating disc.
Each hole of the 18-hole course has three tee pad options, some fairways are considerably tree lined or tree covered while others are open and easier to play.
Parts of the fairways meander adjacent commercial-use buildings and the sound of traffic hums.
Nestled in a residential neighborhood, the course includes dirt pads and golfers will need to be watchful of the pond in the center.
Established in 2016, the course includes concrete pads and wide fairways make for relaxing play. Pause between holes to rest on a nearby bench under a canopy of trees or snap pictures of a nearby waterfall.
For most disc golfers, many of the course’s holes are considered easy to moderate. The course is ranked the 113th-best course in the state.
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.
Scott City is also home to a second course, Lake Scott State Park, which is located outside of town. You need to pay for a $5 park day pass or use your Kansas State Parks Vehicle Pass to enter the area. Established in 2019, the course is uneven terrain with dirt tee boxes.
My journey to discover more about disc golf culture has only begun. I look forward to improving my skills as I travel to more courses throughout Kansas and elsewhere.
The town ranks amongst one of the coolest towns in Kansas, and yet, its one of the most humble. It’s the kind of town, where after I arrive, I’m ready to check into my overnight lodging accommodations and excitedly start exploring Main Street.
The vacation rental is ideal for adult couples or a family who wants to unwind in comfortable accommodations. The owner felt inspired to bring life back to an old building, and she did an remarkable job maintaining its historic character while adding modern day amenities.
I chose the bedroom across from the dining room to bunk for the night, which was in close proximity to a full kitchen complete with a coffee station and laundry facilities. Blackout shades and a complimentary eye mask guaranteed a good night’s sleep.
Each room’s television included streaming Roku channels; however, it was the record player with a stack of vinyl that drew my attention.
I felt a sense of home at Merles Nest, which is a compliment to the owner who provided an upscale vacation rental experience in a beautiful space. I’m sure you’ll feel equally impressed with her attention to detail.
NOTE: This is an upstairs loft space, so guests must be comfortable carrying their bags up nearly 30 steps to the second floor. Shoes must be taken off and kept in the hallway prior to entry.
My hot Lavender Fog tea drink prepared tasted spot on as I chatted with locals about the historic building turned coffee house.
The location is a major draw for high school and college-aged adults, a hangout on Friday and Saturday evenings, where youth play billiards, games, and listen to music.
PRO TIP: View the upcoming 
It was easy to see why the coffee shop remains busy. My toffee nut coffee with a breakfast croissant sandwich was exceptional.
If you don’t prefer a breakfast sandwich, a case of scones, cinnamon rolls, and muffins will tempt your sweet tooth. At lunchtime, they serve a choice of salads, panini with chips, and chicken or tuna salad sandwiches.
I enjoyed toast and toppings with soft, homemade breads, fresh pesto, guacamole, and fig jam with a juice flight. The tables were adorned with stunning spring flowers from nearby farms 
Diners behind me exclaimed, “Oh my, this is pretty and the food is so good!” They’re right. Expect to be impressed with Eleveneleven Fresherie’s quality of ingredients and attentive service.
Retro Coca-Cola signage, a vintage cash register, and a marble-topped counter was a nostalgic setting. Country music played while I enjoyed what has to the be the yummiest, best value lunch ($5) in the state.
The lunch menu consists of a nine sandwich options made on wheat bread and served with chips and a pickle. Regular fountain drinks and coffee are available.
Also doubling as a pharmacy, Cardinal Drug Store and Gifts is a one-stop shopping destination for housewares and decorations. From greeting cards and children’s games to farmhouse decor and body products, they sell it all.
The store’s inventory was surprisingly on-trend. It’s the ideal place to bring a date for lunch followed by shopping.
Drooling started before the first bite. The burger was topped with a slice of brisket, sweet barbecue sauce, and fried mac-n-cheese bites sandwiched between a toasted bun.
Jazz music played as guests filled in the restaurant’s seating eager to enjoy a family dinner or a date night experience. From a backlit bar flanked by wine bottles, a server prepared my blended whiskey cocktail while I perused a meal featuring steak, grilled chicken, and pasta.
I chose the dinner special, Hot Honey Glazed Salmon served on a bed of rice with vegetables accompanied by a dinner salad. A larger portion than expected, the salmon filet was perfectly cooked and I was pleased with my selection.
The owner, who studied the culinary arts, recommended homemade cheesecake or peach cobbler for dessert. I consider myself a bit of a cobbler connoisseur, and this serving met my expectations for the traditional Southern dessert.
PRO TIP: Dine on Saturday night for the steak night special.
I was surprised to learn today’s shoppers are interested in lab-created diamonds, and the store carries a small selection.
Additionally, female shoppers will appreciate a selection of farmhouse decor, women’s clothing, and jewelry items. The store was buzzing with shoppers on a Friday afternoon, many of whom were interested in the seasonal decor table near the front of the store.
Every Kansan needs a custom cutting board packaged with a bouquet of sunflowers, right? Don’t leave without purchasing fine chocolates, which the owner sources from Emporia’s chocolatier 
Clothing racks included apparel for all sizes and you’ll find on-trend fashionable pieces on display amongst handbags, jewelry, and shoes.
Their inventory is affordable, including name brand items. I purchased the shirt pictured above for less than five dollars.
Additionally, shelves displayed new and like-new toys appropriate for various ages. A back corner of the store displayed dance wear.
Little Consignment is the ideal place to sift through racks to find cute clothing for the season for the littles in your life.
This is not your grandma’s makeup store. I discovered products I loved, including eye shadow in hues I don’t normally wear.
You’ll find brands such as Thymes and Spongellé amongst others in the retail area consisting of bath and body products, and a good amount of inventory is specifically for men. I purchased an luxury bar soap made by an Australian body products company.
Expect vibrant colors and bold patterns. Other merchandise includes home decor and pet supplies.
I wished I had grabbed a cart within ten minutes of shopping for Traeger® wood pellets, dog supplies, and gardening needs. My arms overflowed with items as I approached the register.
An official Stihl® dealer, they carry an extensive selection of tools and equipment for your outdoor projects.
Inertia Health and fitness may be open exclusively to members 24/7 for a cardio workout, but the public has access to reservable tanning beds, clothing retail, or to order a protein shake or loaded energy tea.
I couldn’t resist buying a gold frog wearing a crown to beautify a shelf in my home. The store is a garden lovers dream complete with do-it-yourself practical and beautifying supplies.
PRO TIP: Shop the back room for mega deals. Stop by during the Christmas season to see the store transformed into a winter wonderland.
The walls were adorned with children’s artwork curated from various schools in the area, which is a popular annual event. It was such fun to submit my vote for the People’s Choice overall winner of Youth Art Month.
View the gallery’s monthly exhibits via its 
The footage was used in 10 Hollywood feature films and their experiences contributed to 12 books, including “I Married Adventure.”
You’ll need at least an hour to consume the museum starting with a 10-minute History Channel documentary about the couple’s adventurous life and career. Peruse the Imperato West African Gallery before ascending the stairs pausing to reflect on the Sirige (African masks).
A visit to Chanute is not complete without taking a guided or self-guided tour of the museum, including its safari-themed gift shop.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip over the second floor gallery room detail the adventures of another courageous mountaineer, Elizabeth Le Blond. The Irish adventurer photographed glacial landscapes and is credited for shooting the first sports films. She climbed snowy and icy mountains wearing a dress and Victorian boots.
In addition to a vast collection of Lincoln, Dodge, Buick, and Pontiac restored models, the car museum also consists of automative signage, motorized scooters, and bicycles. Howard had a knack for purchasing pristine classic cars at auction, a hobby he continued for decades.
He would travel with his son as far as Florida and Texas to bring home a four-wheeled gem, and a few of his purchases are considered rare like his 1925 Cadillac Serial No. 1.
I’ve visited quite a few car shows and automotive museums, and Harold’s collection is grand. Gearheads will appreciate notable models, including a 1928 Dodge Brothers DA Six Phaeton, a Model A Touring Car, a 1940 Lincoln Zephryr, and “Tweetie,” a bright yellow Crosley HotShot Sports Car also known as America’s first postwar sports car.
The shiny chrome. Unique designs. Each car is a treasure. The public is invited to view the collection Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. or Friday 9 a.m.-Noon. Call (620) 902-5100 to make an appointment to tour the museum on Mondays.
PRO TIP: Tour the hallway to garner appreciate for local sports legends. Don’t forget to look up before existing the museum or you’ll miss a 1896 glider reproduction of Octave Chanute’s winged aircraft.
Also the site of 
If escaping to nature is your vibe, leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind and reserve the cottage 
Disc golfers will appreciate Highland Park’s course, and the outdoor lovers shouldn’t skip Central Park or Cross Park, each offering families picnic-worthy spaces and playground equipment.
View park locations and hiking/biking trails 
The beautifully restored two-level auditorium seats over 1,200 people. View the 
The library hosts 
As I pulled away from Chanute, I looked in the rearview mirror with a smile. The charming town is the ideal place to spend a getaway uncovering the town’s history, shopping, dining, or exploring the outdoors.
As I devoured a chocolate cake donut and a melt-in-your-mouth glazed donut, customers came and went with brown bags filled with tasty early morning treats. A little boy stood on his tip toes while excitedly pointing at chocolate Long John while his grandmother looked on.
I noticed the bakery also sells a variety of muffins, turnovers, and fruit and cheese croissants. Coffee is available for $2.00. (The owner does not sell gluten-free donuts, but an employee told me she is developing the recipe.)
I was warmly greeted by a college-aged employee as Ed Sheeran played over the speaker in the background. I chose a house roast coffee and the Breakfast Croissant sandwich prepared with scambled eggs, diced onion, and bell pepper. The spread, a pepper fruit jam, added sweetness.
Diners can order from their sandwich menu all day, and I whole-heartedly recommend the Kettle Chicken on Ciabatta served with a side of your choice. I expected chunk chicken but the panini-pressed sandwich came with sliced deli meat, bacon, cheese, and fresh spring mix greens, which I appreciate.
PRO TIP: The Wi-Fi password is listed near the pick-up counter. Extra seating is available behind the cafe on the patio.
Most people seem to use the drive-thru window, but I preferred eating breakfast inside while reading a magazine. Located near the community college’s stadium, it’s a convenient place to pick up a flavored Lotus Energy Drink before or after a game.
The menu features pages of burgers, comfort classics like ribeye or country fried steak dinners. My merlot mushroom cheeseburger was dripping with cheese served with a choice of side. I order the sweet potato fries to dip into homemade honey mustard sauce, a combo flavor bomb. The Happiness Burger and Philly Burger are also solid choices.
I usually choose a House Speciality menu selection like General Tso’s Chicken, but you can’t go wrong with Mongolian Beef prepared with tender steak and served with signature sliced potatoes.
When I noted their location parked at Walnut River Brewing Company, I showed up early to order the Blarney Fries served smothered in smoked corned beef, melted cheese, and sour cream. Their loaded fries are decadent shareable meal.
I returned to the taproom to grab as seat at the recycled wood bar for a flight of beer, and like always, I was more than happy with their flagship beers and rotators. Read more about my love of the brewing dating back to 2020 in this earlier 
The small-batch distillery serves tastings for $20 per person (no cocktails) Thursday-Saturday. I recommend the Barn Burner Cinnamon Rum or the Dodgy Fox six-year bourbon.
Expect single-batch barrel bourbon whiskey, bourbon, agave spirit, run and vodka. If you’re not charged a fee for your tasting experience, consider purchasing a bottle.
From aromatic candles and whole-bean coffee to live plants and seasonal displays, they carry it all. Don’t miss the discount plant table positioned in the rear of the store, accessible via the back door.
The first floor women’s clothing racks are organized by size and color, with handbags displayed nearby. Upstairs, shoppers will discover men’s casual and formal attire, children’s clothing, and a significant inventory of pre-owned and never-worn wedding dresses.
The store includes the collectibles of 50 vendors displayed throughout the store by theme. Unlike antique stores that carry mostly glassware or dishes, Antique Alley has something for every kind of shopper, ranging from old lanterns and fishing equipment to framed artwork and seasonal decorations.
Voted Best Antique Store by the Butler County Times-Gazette readers, it is open four days a week, and the inventory is often refreshed.
Owner Denise Wick is a talented, self-taught artist known for her jewelry creations, which incorporate stones and beads, and her clothing pieces are considered collectible, wearable art.
Catering to women’s fashion, the store also sells a few brands, such as plant-based Zum® laundry and body products.
From antiques to oddities, the store’s eclectic selection features a diverse range of items, curated by five booth vendors. I spotted a few collectibles, but the majority of the inventory on the day of my visit consisted of a diverse array of household items, similar to what you might find at a garage sale.
The back of the store is primarily for fiber arts creatives seeking hand-dyed yarn. Knitters will feel right at home relaxing on the couch, chatting with other creatives while brainstorming a new project.
Open Monday-Friday, the reader’s hangout includes a vault filled with El Dorado historical documents.
The nursery carries an impressive collection of succulent plants. Open seven days a week, the store also posts to a 
PRO TIP: Many of the sculptures are easily viewable by walking downtown, but don’t miss iconic creations on display at the historic train depot (430 N. Main Street) as well.
Located the Greetings from El Dorado mural at Central Avenue and Main Street. A new addition, Brickmob’s mural at 
Free to explore (donations appreciated), the exhibits are both permanent and temporary.
Admire cowboy fine art by Frederic Remington, Bill Walton, and Milo West upstairs, or look for the first and second floors’ exhibits showcasing a variety of artists’ styles.
Over the years, local oil companies and the 
PRO TIP: Don’t leave without taking a photo at the stadium’s baseball-themed mural.
I recommend viewing the explanatory video before perusing the room showcasing over one hundred years of oil equipment. Although it wasn’t yet open for the spring season, I’m told the museum’s grounds, featuring 23 replica buildings and oil drilling rigs, is worth the price of admission.
After the oil lease of 1918, multiple refineries operated throughout the county. Today, 
If you listen closely, you’ll hear the sound of an Aeolian harp’s changing notes as the wind passes over it.
A replica Statue of Liberty sits on the grounds, an installation by the Strengthen the Arm of Liberty campaign by the Boy Scouts of America in 1950.
Built in 1918, the red brick building resembles late 19th and 20th-century Mission/Spanish Colonial Revival design. Don’t miss the numerous statues installed on the grounds, including the town’s second Statue of Liberty replica and a 9/11 memorial.
An archery range, a BMX trail, playgrounds, and picnic areas are near 
You’ll have access to 
PRO TIP: Don’t own a boat? Rent one at the marina. Pack water shoes and swimsuits to enjoy two designated 
Taking advantage of the Wi-Fi, I kicked back while watching a movie after the sun set. The bed was firm but quite comfortable.
PRO TIP: Bring earplugs if your room is located near the ice machine.
I’m confident you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during your overnight stay in El Dorado, Kansas, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, award-worthy art, unique shopping, or rave-worthy dining.
Built in the 1900, the bungalow home’s interior design mimicked the home’s historic character. During the evening, I streamed a movie from the living-room’s television Roku streaming service and kicked back and enjoyed the free high-speed WiFi.
The primary bedroom includes a queen bed with a new, firm mattress. A shared full bathroom connects to a second bedroom featuring two single beds. I appreciated that the host provided guest toiletries as well. I didn’t want for anything during my stay.
Adjacent to the dining room, a full kitchen also includes a bonus coffee station complete with Keurig pods and snacks. A refrigerator was stocked with complimentary drinks, making me feel right at home.
PRO TIP: Lounge with Fido outdoors. The pet-friendly home includes an astroturf lounge space with a small fenced backyard illuminated by string lights at night.
While I love to indulge in sweet waffles, I also appreciate their savory waffle with sausage gravy. The waffle options are ever-changing, but you’re guaranteed to find sweet and savory options with creative toppings.
I needed a sidekick to go with my breakfast waffles. I ordered a Dirty Chai Tea Latté. It arrived to my table in a mug so large that I had to use two hands just to sip my tea. Norm’s serves locally-sourced espresso and specialty coffee drinks.
The coffee bar is also well-liked by locals. You will always find a few people in line or waiting for their to-go coffee orders. The service is swift, so you never wait long.
As I savored each bite of my scrambled egg with sauteéd vegetables breakfast bowl, a group of locals chatted over coffee at a nearby table. The sizzling sound from a flattop grill and the clamoring of the cook’s metal spatula hummed as a steady order of meals was prepared.
PRO TIP: Cash or check only. An ATM is available within walking distance.
My sandwich’s exterior was perfectly crusty and the cheese was melted just the right amount. The chicken and rice soup was a solid choice.
Located one block off of Main Street, the restaurant is a must-stop when in Newton. Not only does it have a spacious patio for alfresco dining, but the interior setting is uber cool. It was you’re stepping inside a retro garage complete with road signs, concrete floors, and exposed brick walls.
Known for their delicious wood-fired pizza, I asked an employee and a local waiting in line which one of the signature pies I should order. I chose the Graffiti, a 1o” pizza topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, onion, peppers, and black olives.
Back Alley Pizza also prepares salads, toasted subs, and cannolis for dessert. They keep the menu choices simple allowing diners to choose from 11 signature pizzas or to customize their own.
Given the choice of protein options, I selected ground beef, steak, and carnitas street tacos served with rice and beans. The steak had the best flavor, the ground beef satisfied, although the carnitas was served a bit dry. I added homemade green verde salsa to all of them for full flavor.
After sampling a few dry white and red varieties, Kansas Icon made with 100 percent Chambourcin grapes with a hint of oak and cherry was by far my preferred wine.
PRO TIP: The Barrel Room Saturday is open from 12pm-5 pm or guests can reserve private in-depth wine tasting experiences online. Bring-your-own food is welcome.
Shoppers are greeted with the same warm smile and “How can I help you?” Just as the store’s entrance reads, you can expect to be treated just as they would want to be treated with kindness.
PRO TIP: Look for a small section of free books. Bring cash. Credit cards are not accepted.
The store’s shelves are neatly stocked with rows of specialty foods. The refrigerator cases keep locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce chilled. The smoothie bar is ready to serve customers.
They offer options for buying in bulk in multiple stations around the store. I recommend you bring your own container to purchase grains and spices. Top off a growler with fresh Tea-biotics kombucha. Fill a plastic jug with liquid soap.
I purchased most delicious ice cream that I’ve tasted in a long time. Made in Newton, Salted Creamery Ice Cream comes in a variety of flavors sold by the pint. I took home Berry Cheesecake and Key Lime Pie.
The store continues to expand its inventory, which includes outdoor gear, wellness products, and children’s toys.
I love to support a locally owned store while buying globally sourced products for fresh pan dulce pastries or hot sauces to add to a home-cooked recipe.
Since 2015, the store is operated as a non-profit with the hope of connecting people with the resources they need. I spotted books and supplies for every age. Parents with children in tow will appreciate the kids’ section devoted to their reading needs.
If you’re seeking a journal for devotionals or an inspirational book of quotes, Faith & Life carries a large inventory of gifts.
The second-generation family run meat shop regularly rotates the meat case’s offerings, but you can alway count on homemade sausage and steak cuts available for purchase. They carry Kansas-made brands, including edro Lopez Mexican food products, Grandma Hoerner’s mustard, Jelly Lady fruit spreads, and Toritilleria Los III Potrillos flour tortillas. Service is friendly and welcoming.
PRO TIP: Shop on Wednesday for bierocks and cream puffs or Thursday for breakfast beirocks.
The quaint store includes several racks of trending shirts, bottoms, and dresses at reasonable prices. A fitting room is available to try on outfits.
The customer service was genuine and helpful during my visit. Employees, who are experience quilters, are eager to swap project stories or assist shoppers of all quilting experience levels.
PRO TIP: The quilt store is located on the 
The building, which was once a Pepsi™ warehouse, is filled to the highest corners of the ceilings with vintage collectibles, ranging from farm tools to furniture. The newest addition to the store includes a refreshment counter serving drinks and baked goods.
PRO TIP: Follow 
I was impressed to see well-organized clothing racks full of brand named shirts and pants in new or slightly used condition. A woman’s wool v-nick sweater by Express was priced as low as five dollars. A display at the front of the store displays seasonal decoration and wearables.
From retro drinking glasses to reminders of your childhood like toys and lunchboxes, you’ll find something to bring home.
If you love the challenge of looking high and low for the ultimate find, spend at least a half hour perusing countless vendors’ booths.
As I walked from room to room, I spotted depression glass, collector coins, pottery, jewelry, furniture, and signage. The owner has expanded the store over the years and recently added more space with booths.
Some of the oversized vibrant paintings extend the full length of buildings in full view of passersby while others are tucked-away gems situated along alleyways.
A trip to Newton isn’t complete without taking a photo in front of the massive flower mural at 100 block of E 6th Street.
Newton is also home to a couple of public art installations. You must see 
One of the oldest and most intriguing art installations in Newton is 
I referred to the 
He was instrumental in the Mennonite migration to the area and he single-handedly brought Turkey Red hard winter wheat to the area and made it a staple crop. Have you heard Kansas referred to as the Breadbasket of the World? We can thank Warkentin for helping to make that happen.
Warkentin and his wife, Wilhelmina, and their two children moved into the Queen Ann-Style mansion in 1888. Now, it is a museum that offers tours by appointment January-March and on weekends depending on the time of year.
The Warkentin’s spared no expense when designing their home down to the smallest details. I was enamored by the door’s metal finishes, the changing wood floors from room to room, the expansive size of the bedrooms, and the imported furnishings.
Visiting the home allows everyday people to get a glimpse of what luxury living looked like during a time when rural Kansas was just beginning to prosper. I recommend taking a moment to enjoy the view from the home’s wrap-around porch. To view the museums hours and plan a visit, visit their Facebook page 
“Immigrant People” is an exhibit that documents how Mennonites packed their belongings and traveled by rail or wagon and eventually by steam-powered ships to America. Later as homesteaders, they took root in the open prairie in what is now Newton. While some had money, most were poor yet hopeful for the future.
I appreciated the Historic Farmstead and Gardens, which are open to tour with a museum employee. The outdoor buildings were built in 1875 and 1886 and were moved to their current site.
Fantastic 
To plan a trip to Kaufmann Museum and learn more about their current and upcoming exhibits, visit their 
The museum, which is located inside a stunning Carnegie Library building, is free to visit although donations are welcome. Don’t forget to sign the guest book.
If you’re already visiting Kauffman Museum, take a walk outside the building through the wooded tree line to find one of the markers “The Story of Land and People.”
Referred to as the Trail Between Two Cities, one can also bike the Bethel College path system. To view all of the trails in the area, visit this All Trails 
It includes a wheelchair ramp, communication board and noise-making, puzzle-like stations for interactive play.
Take a break after the front nine holes to enjoy a grab-and-go meal at Caboose 305 Café before finishing a round.
After reserving a lane, head the 
I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my love of Newton. It’s a charming town within a short drive from Wichita that offers visitors plenty to do and see.
Have you traveled to the area already? I’d love to hear about the sites you added to your trip in the comments below.
From the breakfast menu options viewable within the glass bakery case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.
PRO TIP: Order a dessert to go. I recommend a soft snickerdoodle cookie.
The café is student hangout between classes, so expect college-aged patrons to chat amongst themselves and play billiards. If you’re hoping to use a laptop to concentrate on work or read a book, I recommend using the overflow lounge space in the next room.
I recommend sticking with the Mexican cuisine theme by adding a Dirty Horchata with espresso drink to the Two Tamale Meal. Who knows, you may spot a vibrant piece of pottery to purchase before you leave.
I sipped a steaming chai latté from one of a handful of seats before shopping next door for bargain finds. Most visitors choose to order a portable to-go coffee, but I enjoyed relaxing at one of the refurbished tables watching people come and go.
Cozy up with your laptop or a book in the comfy lounge or shop for gifts after coffee and a meal. If traveling with kids, board games and puzzles keep it entertaining.
The guest WI-FI and copious sunshine are complimentary. Kids will appreciate watching fish at the koi pond.
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 sipped a specialty coffee, The Feathered Frenzy, and enjoyed a scratch-made scone from the espresso bar. As we talked, I noticed several locals sitting together in small groups, talking over coffee. You’ll feel a sense of community at café.
Part of the fun of travel is discovering new-to-you experiences, which can include enjoying a cup of java in a unique setting. Consider adding one of these tucked-away Kansas coffee shops to your travel plans.
