Are you in search of a secluded getaway for two? Perhaps you’re seeking a new date night adventure at a charming location in Kansas?
Use my guide to choose a fine dining restaurant, chocolate or floral shop, or charming lodging accommodations to create a romantic escape for couples.
Kansas Adventures: Romantic Escapes & Date Ideas
Indulge in a Fine Dining Experience for a Memorable Date
Weather Room – Topeka
People Magazine recognized the Weather Room (920 Kansas Avenue) as one of the top 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America for a reason, and the food is equally noteworthy.
Count on fine-dining American fare in a sophisticated setting before indulging in an after-dinner drink expertly prepared at the bar. I recommend the Espresso Martini.
Crooner’s Lounge – Fort Scott
There is no better place to enjoy a high-end dinner in Fort Scott than Crooner’s Lounge (117 S. Main). The lasagna (recommended to me by a couple of locals) was scrumptious for dinner. A large portion that two people could easily share came with a house salad and bread.
My server asked the kitchen to prepare cinnamon ice cream with a caramel drizzle minus the cake for my after-dinner treat. I ate every bite.
Georges French Bistro – Wichita
If you can’t fly to Paris for a romantic dinner, Georges French Bistro (4618 E. Central Avenue) is the next best thing.
Sit at a white linen table for two dining on Mussels & Frites as a starter before sharing bites of Duck á Lorange and Grand-Mère Chicken. The flaming dessert impresses any date.
Culinaria – Lawrence
Hands down, Culinaria (512 E. 9th) is worth its high ratings on Google. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, featuring farm-to-table ingredients, is served beautifully plated. Located inside a historic limestone building, the cozy restaurant delivers cozy, romantic vibes in a low-lit dining room at dinnertime.
YaYa’s Euro Bistro – Salina
When you’re in the mood for a chef-prepared meal using the freshest ingredients and exquisitely plated, you dine at YaYa’s EuroBistro (251 S. Santa Fe Avenue). My dinner experience started with complimentary bread and savory dipping sauce with a glass of house red wine.
Diners can select from a full dinner menu or Build Your Own Duet ($44) served with a Greek, Caesar, or spinach salad.
Union Street Social – Emporia
Union Street Social (225 E 6th Avenue) is the restaurant you always wished for, and now it’s here. The restaurant serves chef-prepared cuisine and specialty cocktails that rival any big city. A gas fireplace is a focal point flanked by jewel-tone velvet couches giving off a speakeasy vibe set to the backdrop of live jazz music.
Order the crab cakes for a shareable starter before enjoying a savory steak or pasta dinner. Ask for two forks to split a slice of homemade cheesecake.
Shop for Chocolates for Your Sweetheart
Russell Stover Factory Outlet – Abilene
At Russell Stover Factory Outlet (1993 Caramel Boulevard), the smell of chocolate permeates the air. Grab a cart and stock up on boxed chocolates, gourmet caramel apples, discounted holiday candy (in the back room!), and handmade fudge.
Annadore’s – Shawnee
An afternoon of shopping isn’t complete without stopping into Annedore’s Fine Chocolates (11007 Johnson Drive), and they offer free samples to tempt your tastebuds.
Known for their handmade selection of individual chocolates, I also love the extensive line of confections. Don’t leave the store without asking for a sample of the Milk Chocolate Covered Toffee.
Cocoa Dulce – Wichita
The smell of fine chocolate is inviting at Cocoa Dolce (3 Locations), where candy connoisseurs can select from various flavors from beneath a glass counter. Order a barista-prepared specialty coffee to pair with hand-selected chocolates or indulge in macarons or a cookie.
Sweet Granada – Emporia
Sweet Granada (03 Commercial Street) is a gift shop carrying 200 handmade chocolates and gourmet desserts.
Ask for Granada Goo & Avalanche, the store’s best-selling treat. You can select individual macaroons or chocolate truffles to create a to-go box.
Bijou Confectionary – Humboldt
Homemade macarons. Blocks of fudge. Soft cookies. Bulk candy. You’ll find all of it, plus gourmet chocolate, available at Bijou Confectionary (810 S. Bridge Street).
Use a scoop and bag up bulk candy priced at $10 per pound. My lemon macaroon was perfectly soft, and the no-bake cocoa cookie lasted only minutes.
Squishington’s Candy Shop – Lawrence
Stop into Squishington’s Candy Shop (646 Massachusetts) to shop imported chocolate, a candy shop that also specializes in stocking nostalgic retro candy. The staff is eager to help customers build a festive gift filled with a sweet tooth’s favorite candies.
Show Your Love With a Beautiful Floral Bouquet
The Flower Shoppe – Pratt
A short jaunt away from Main Street, I encourage you to visit The Flower Shoppe (201 E. 4th Street). Florist Lou Lynne Moss has been designing silk and fresh floral arrangements for happy customers for years.
Farmer and Florist – Marysville
Inside Farmer and Florist (914 Broadway Street), the shop smells of fresh floral arrangements and scented candles. Jarred Kansas-made products, stationary, and bath products adorn shelves amongst house plants. The shop delivers flowers locally and is known by shoppers for gift boxes featuring fresh-cut flowers.
Chicken Creek Co. – Shawnee
At Chicken Creek Co., you will always find grab-and-go floral bouquets made with “glamour blooms” in the reach-in cooler, and she accepts pre-orders before the holidays. Her prices are reasonable since the owner buys her flowers directly.
Everything’s A Bloomin’ – Oakley
Everything’s-a-Bloomin’ (204 Center Avenue) is stocked from floor to ceiling with home decor, apparel, and Kansas-made foodie gifts. The store also doubles as the town’s only flower shop. Since 2004, Dana’s shop has been the go-to place for visitors to enjoy an unhurried shopping experience.
Free State Flora – Wichita
Free State Flora (2910 E. Douglas Avenue) stock an abundance of fresh flowers and dried botanicals to create a bouquet for any personality. Owner Emily Jones specializes in beautifying weddings with her stunning floral displays.
Pair Up to Enjoy a Wine or Beer Flight
The Paisley Pear – Hays
A delightful space to relax and unwind after a day of exploring downtown Hays is Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market (1100 Main Street). Established in 2017, the wine bar has been serving beverage flights and wine slushies since 2017.
I chose a $12 wine flight of dry varieties from a long list of options. My favorite selection was a cabernet sauvignon from Skyfall Vineyards.
Radius Brewing Company – Emporia
Order a flight of award-winning craft beer (6, 5-ounce pours) at Radius Brewing Company (610 Merchant Street) to share while comparing flavor notes from ales, ranging from American Wheat Beer to Imperial Stout.
Wandering Vine at the Castle – Shawnee
Visit Wandering Vine at the Castle (12401 Johnson Drive) to enjoy a delicious chef-prepared meal and a wine flight. It’s owned by Kansas City residents who have enlisted the expertise of an executive chef and sommelier to celebrate food and drink.
One step inside the castle, and you are transported to an exceptionally beautiful setting.
15-25 Brew House – Clay Center
15-24 Brew House(420 Lincoln Avenue) is kicking out some of the area’s best beers. I ordered a four-pour beer flight to sample several brews.
Peel Out, comparable to Blue Moon, lived up to the hype. The two-time National Grand Champ Belgian Wit was my favorite, followed by 1 Eye Open Tropical IPA.
Liquid Art Winery and Estate – Manhattan
Cheers to good times exploring the beauty of Manhattan’s scenery at Liquid Art Winery and Estate (1745 Wildcat Creek Road). As your car ascends the gravel road and turns left, you’re greeted by expansive views of lush green vineyards.
After selecting four one-ounce pours for my dry wine flight, we exited to the partially sun-drenched patio. It’s a romantic setting, indeed.
Reserve a Room at an Exquisite Hotel for a Romantic Retreat
Cyrus Hotel – Topeka
Cyrus Hotel (920 S. Topeka Avenue) is a modern boutique hotel that recently opened in downtown Topeka. Luxury rooms, elegant restaurant and bar, and close proximity to top attractions make it a solid choice for lodging in the capital city.
Hip furnishings with brass finishes are the backdrop for well-designed spaces throughout the hotel. My corner room had floor-to-ceiling windows that provided stunning views of downtown, especially at night when the skyline was aglow.
Ambassador Hotel – Wichita
Located in the heart of downtown near entertainment venues, Ambassador Hotel at Wichita (104 S. Broadway Avenue) is within walking distance of historic neighborhoods Old Town and the Delano District.
The sleek interior design includes gold accents, deep purple hues, and the in-room amenities are luxurious. A speakeasy and fine dining restaurant are located on-site.
The Eldridge Hotel – Lawrence
Originally built in 1855 and called the Free State Hotel, The Eldridge Hotel (701 Massachusetts Street) was one of the town’s tallest, most beautiful buildings. Upon walking into its lobby, couples will feel transported back in time when luxury was a rarity.
Toast to romance with drinks at the on-site swanky bar, Jayhawker, before your chef-prepared dinner at Eldridge House Grille and All American Room.
Homewood by Hilton – Salina
Of all of the hotels that I’ve stayed at while on the road travel writing, Homewood Suites by Hilton Salina Downtown (155 E. Mulberry St.) is by far one of the best. The luxury, service, and proximity to the town’s attractions make it the foremost hotel to enjoy when visiting Salina.
The beautifully decorated hotel is designed in a modern style with references to the region from the lobby’s opulent, gas-powered fireplace to the private library with the finest furnishings.
Dröm Sött Inn – Lindsborg
Swedish-inspired Dröm Sött Inn (112 W. Lincoln Street) prioritizes guest comfort, and the inn is impeccably designed with a nod to a European aesthetic. In the evening, lounge in the Wine Shelter, sipping a complimentary glass of white wine together.
At breakfast, sit at a sun-drenched table savoring a thoughtfully prepared breakfast before playing a competitive game of chess in front of the lounge’s fireplace.
Gulfer Mansion – Emporia
Tucked away in a neighborhood within walking distance from campus sits Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast (612 W. 12th Ave.). The turn of the century 10,000 square foot home includes 12 bedrooms and is large enough to host events.
My accommodations in the German Room included private access to a newly remodeled bathroom with modern amenities.
Bonus Date Ideas: Other romance-inducing adventures include Discover Kansas’ Indie Bookstores, go mural hunting together amongst other Cool Places to Check out in Clay Center, or discover The Best Places to Sip & Savor in Olathe.
I hope this hand-curated list inspires you to make new memories with the one you love or to ask a special someone to accompany you on a date.
Visitors of all ages will appreciate the on-site activities, including the Magical Forest Ice Skating Trail and Glacier Slides Snow Tubing. You don’t have to be athletic to participate in either one. Schedule your arrival time, sign the waivers, and give it a go.
Although I’m not much of an ice skater, it was fun to try it. Finding a pair of skates that fit me was a bit of a challenge, but it was worth the experience once we snapped photos as the sun set and the holiday lights became aglow.
We watched families defy gravity at Glacier Slides Snow Tubing, which offers two options for ascending to the bottom: a kid-friendly “bunny hill” and a 30-foot-tall slide.
Participants screamed with glee as they slid downhill, and kids often begged their parents for a second run. Chris loved the speed and thrill of the descent.
Afterward, we listened to a pianist play and sing holiday tunes inside the Bah Humbug Sing-A-Long Piano Bar. I sipped spiked cider and, yes, found myself singing popular jingles. I felt the Christmas spirit.
We perused vendor booths before entering the second floor’s Tipsy Tree Lounge; we enjoyed another cup of holiday cheer while watching families explore the park below.
The festive experience concluded after selecting an ornament for our tree from the gift shop, a memento of our date night experience.
PRO TIP: Upgrading your tickets to include the VIP Pass is worth it, providing access to lounges, fast pass lanes, a welcome drink, a $10 gift certificate, and a to-go swag bag. 
We made a beeline for a tented room where Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome families. To my surprise, we had them to ourselves, so we chatted joyfully about their holiday duties before I requested a photo with them. A jolly time, indeed.
The Renaissance-themed holiday fun continues throughout the park as hobbyists perfect their craft.
Knights of Lights is designed to be a fantastical experience. 
You may love it so much that you’ll want to return when all vendors are available during the 
PRO TIP: Planning a date night? Purchase a 
A directory of apparel stores includes brands such as Kate Spade, J. Crew, Michael Kors Outlet, and dozens more. During a recent visit, we purchased three pairs of sneakers at Adidas for under $100.
Not only do many of the stores advertise low prices, but some offer additional coupons and clearance merchandise.
Specialty shops such as Gamestop, Claire’s, and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory make shopping for kids a breeze. I never miss a chance to shop for seasonal gifts at Home Goods.
And when you’ve worked up an appetite for holiday shopping, stop for a meal at one of over 20 
It’s our tradition to stop at the massive Christmas tree for a photo for our holiday card. Bringing kids? They can drop a letter to Santa in the mailbox at AMC Legends 14 Theater.
PRO TIP: Participate in the 
I recommend ordering two breakfast burritos per person, and the carne asada burritos are excellent. If you’re extra hungry, consider ordering the Torta Memo, a stuffed bread sandwich with peppers, grilled steak, and cheese.
PRO TIP: The green salsa is mild, and the orange salsa is extra spicy.
I recommend ordering the shareable Poke Nachos for an appetizer, which our server told us is the restaurant’s most popular request. Layers of marinated ahi tuna, peppers, truffle sauce, and Asian-inspired ingredients sit atop crispy wonton chips.
For lunch, I chose the Baja Shrimp Taco and Vampire Taco with a side house salad, a delicious balance of spicy seasoning and fresh ingredients. Our table also enjoyed a juicy Truffle Cheeseburger with truffle fries, a decadent combo.
Yard House is an excellent choice for dining, especially if you want to watch the game from a bar television.
For over 25 years, guests have ordered seafood stuffed po’boys, crawfish étouffée, and plates of pasta swimming in Creole-spiced cream sauce.
We sat at the bar to avoid a wait at the hostess desk, where two bartenders introduced themselves and told us about the three-piece live jazz band playing on the second floor. Expect live music every night of the week starting at 6:00 pm.
I ordered Shrimp & Scallops Pontchartrain, which was so rich in flavor and seasoning that I mopped up every bite of the tequila cream sauce with complimentary baguette bread. A bite of my boyfriend’s seafood fettuccini proved too spicy for my palette but so tasty.
PRO TIP: Although it’s not a sports bar, Jazz bartenders confess it’s a great place to enjoy a meal during a televised Kansas Chiefs football game because there is never a wait.
As an IHG Hotel Rewards member, I expect the hotel’s comfortable amenities, including a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and high-speed free Wi-Fi.
PRO TIP: Pack earplugs and a sleep mask for a guaranteed night’s slumber.
I’m a big fan of the 
But there’s more! If you extend your holiday vacation in Kansas City, Kansas, consider reading my blog posts 
PRO TIP: Pack hiking shoes. If weather permits, take a nature walk along the Tallgrass Trail, a scenic 1.5-mile loop with views of a pond and natural prairie. Walkers gain access to an open-air pathway leading to learning stations.
PRO TIP: Bring binoculars if you plan on driving designated roads to view waterfowl on a good weather day in the Cheyenne Bottoms.
Koch Exhibit Hall includes 3,500 square feet of walk-thru displays with hands-on visual and auditory stations. Birdwatchers will appreciate the Bob Gress Wildlife Observatory for spotting native songbirds, deer, or turkey.
The collection includes birds, wild animals, and Kansas native species. His collection of owls is particularly amazing, especially when in contrasted with big cats in close proximity.
Fossils, rocks, minerals, dinosaur bones, and aquariums with snacks, frogs, and bugs make touring the museum an immersive experience for all ages. A native Kansan, I loved the artifacts found in the Sunflower State, including massive geodes and crystals.
PRO TIP: Animatronic dinosaurs and life-size taxidermy may frighten the museum’s youngest visitors, so prepare your self-guided tour accordingly.
Ignite your curiosity on a self-guided tour of mammal skulls and taxidermy ranging from Arctic animals and the Rocky Mountains to the rain forest and the Kansas prairie.
Open year-round, Kansas nature centers offer visitors an opportunity to learn about native plants and animal species.
Bonus: Cross the Missouri border to experience 
K18 Café
Bonus: Although the following restaurants are not located at an airport, each restaurant’s interior is designed with aircraft in mind: 
Committed to adopting out the cats in their care through a strict vetting process, I was impressed with the store’s mission to provide cats and book lovers with a space where they can get to know one another.
You’ll quickly be impressed by the high-quality selections as you peruse the bookcases. Of course, my eyes darted right to the cookbooks and travel guides, but I also found myself gazing at the rest of the gently-used books. The backend of the story is dedicated to the littlest shoppers, while the rest of the store stocks books for all ages.
Open since 2015, the store is operated as a non-profit with the hope of connecting people with the resources they need. Within moments of my visit, I spotted books and supplies for every age. Parents with children in tow will appreciate the dedicated kids’ section, which caters to their reading needs.
A haven for college students, the upstairs tables are typically occupied by college-aged scholars seated behind laptops. Downstairs, the register area doubles as a cafe.
Decorative ravens cut from paper dangle from a string overhead as shoppers choose their next read. Like any good indie bookstore, a couple of curious cats are known to greet customers.
Shoppers can expect a wide range of fiction and non-fiction titles, and I was impressed to see several best-selling titles in stock. Are you on the hunt for a good read during a road trip? Do you have a young adult reader interested in a new book? You’ll find multiple genres at Seven Stories.
You’ll notice that they don’t carry just best-selling titles but also curate new books that might not be found elsewhere. For example, they stock a sizable selection of books by Indigenous authors, and the children’s book inventory is sizable.
But you’ll find more than books at Red Fern Booksellers. I was impressed to discover handmade gift wrap, stationery, puzzles, stickers, and handcrafted greeting cards. My visit ended perfectly when a butterfly greeted me as I exited the store, a delightful experience.
The café offers patrons a place to sit back and relax with a book or meet in small groups. During my visit, several locals met friends and colleagues at oversized tables with free Wi-Fi access. Other areas of the coffee house were dedicated to families with kids, and the back patio offered a quiet, more secluded place to unwind.
I particularly appreciate their local interest and Kansas history books, a modest section located on the second floor. In 2021, I was proud to see they stocked my first book and encouraged me to sign it when visiting.
In business since 1977, the store regularly hosts author signing events and book talks.
