Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Lincoln. All opinions and photos are mine. I participated in planning the travel itinerary’s points of interests.
Lincoln, Nebraska, has it all. As Nebraska’s capital city and the home of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, it offers visitors access to big-city attractions while balancing college-town vibes.
We returned to Husker Country with one goal: to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods during a weekend getaway.
From upscale dining and laid-back cafés to shopping strolls and an underground cave tour, there is more than enough to experience in three days. Lincoln, aka The Star City, is your destination, no matter your travel personality.
DAY 1
Enjoying Modern Lodging with a Vibe
The Scarlet Hotel
New on the scene, The Scarlet Hotel (2101 Transformation Drive) is a boutique-style hotel offering six floors of guest rooms, a rooftop bar with sunset views, and on-site amenities that rival any big city hotel.
The expansive lobby is filled with UNL sports artifacts and framed illustrations of notable Nebraskans like Warren Buffett. Comfy couch configurations and desk sets provide plenty of room to gather with friends before or after a day of exploring the city.
Our Waterloo, Nebraska-inspired guest room came with the comforts of home. A drink cabinet included a Nespresso® machine, an apartment-sized refrigerator, and a microwave. Framed photography of Midwest landscapes adorned the wall next to a wooden desk with a complimentary USB charging station.
The King guest room was a haven for relaxation, where we could nap mid-day and watch television. For those who prefer to exercise during their downtime, a state-of-the-art fitness room and yoga room with equipment are available.
Where can you eat and drink at the hotel? Well & Good serves lunch and dinner staples such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. I’d recommend starting dinner with a shareable order of fried cheese curds. The Good Life Coffee Shop‘s baristas serve drip coffee and grab-and-go baked goods.
If it’s a game day or late-night vibes you’re seeking, visit the sixth floor’s Barred Owl. The indoor bar and lounge extend to an open-air patio with downtown and campus views. Charge drinks or a charcuterie board to your hotel room before enjoying a panoramic Nebraska sunset.
PRO TIP: The Scarlet Hotel is a Marriot Bonvoy Tribute Portfolio Hotel, so don’t forget to provide your rewards member number at check-in. Valet parking is available or you can park in a nearby free parking lot.
Discovering the College View Shops
The College View neighborhood is a shop local destination in Southeast Lincoln. A walkable small business district is home to numerous businesses, many of which are owned by women.
Wax Buffalo
At Wax Buffalo (4723 Prescott Avenue), customers can create custom candles or buy their own from a vast inventory of soy wax varieties. The hand-poured candles are made in small batches and have unique, approachable scents not found elsewhere.
The Candle Lab is an aromatic experience at one’s fingertips. It’s as easy as selecting the vessel, curating a fragrance from the candle library, and melting the hot wax. The 45-minute process is the ideal time to sip a cocktail or mocktail mixed at the on-site bar.
While I didn’t have time to create a candle, I came home with a French Press soy candle that smells like fresh brewed coffee.
PRO TIP: The Prescott Avenue location is the larger of two Wax Buffalo shops, each offering Candle Lab-reserved experiences. The Haymarket Candle Lab and retail flagship store is located at 727 O Street.
Licorice International
Licorice International (4725 Prescott Avenue) stocks the most extensive collection of licorice in the United States, importing brands and flavors from across the globe. If you represent 45 percent of people who love black licorice for its distinct taste, you’re lucky because they have an extensive selection.
As I perused the store’s shelves, I noticed non-licorice candies available for sale as well. This is the ideal shopping destination if you want to build a gift basket for someone with a sweet tooth.
In business for over 20 years, Licorice International is likely unlike any candy store you’ve visited and one of the most interesting in the Midwest. Ask about homemade fudge and pecan rolls.
Paper Kite
Your mood instantly lifts upon entering Paper Kite (4744 Prescott Avenue), where brightly colored kids’ toys and unique gifts for all ages are available for sale.
Kid clothing, art supplies, dolls, toys, they carry it. You won’t find typical big-box store toys at Paper Kite. They stock handmade toys and wearables created by local and regional artisans.
In search of a gift for my niece and nephew, an employee helped me search the store for the perfect sentiment. The store’s beautiful stationary and art prints made it hard not to leave without something for myself.
Pattino
Around the corner at Pattino (3943 S. 48th Street), what started as a footwear store has flourished into a women’s apparel and accessories boutique.
Opened in 2006, the inventory consists of on-trend fashions and everyday clothing. Tables display jewelry, handbags, and sneakers to complement outfits and create classic, timeless looks.
The owner refreshes inventory curating items at market to sell at the College View store and its Omaha sister store, The Mix.
Little Movements Apparel
Little Movements Apparel (4019 S. 48th Street) is the ideal place to shop for women’s active wear or lounge wear. From leggings to draw string shorts and t-shirts to rompers, you’ll find the locally owned store has it, organized by House of Colour seasons.
I thought the variety of wearable classics was affordable compared to Lululemon or its competitors. The clearance racks at the back of the store are the place to look for deep discounts.
PRO TIP: Also located in the same space, The Color Collab sells women’s dresses and accessories featuring the season’s color palette. You’ll likely find pieces in your signature color.
Sapahn
Sapahn (4724 Prescott Avenue) isn’t a leather goods store, it’s much more than that. Every person who purchases a handbag or accessory supports the handiwork of women around the world.
Bags of all styles and colors dominate the store, each lined with a patterned fabric coordinating with the bag’s exterior color.
The Loft by Lee Douglas Interiors
The Loft by Lee Douglas Interiors (4821 Lowell Avenue) is a renovated home with thematic rooms featuring kitchenware and home decor with signature style.
Items are grouped by function and design. Dried flowers and garlands adorned the garden room. A dark, moody room included man cave decor. An upstairs room catered to shoppers seeking stylish bedroom accents.
PRO TIP: Get a sneak peek at new inventory arrivals by viewing its Instagram account.
Goldenrod Pastries
After an afternoon of strolling College View shops, a sweet treat at Goldenrod Pastries (3947 S. 48th Street) is in order. Visit the bakery’s counter to select one (or three!) macaroons or cookies. They provide gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan treats.
I sipped a Maracuyá fruit drink between bites of a Confetti Blueberry Mini Loaf at an indoor cafe near the shop’s retail area. The smell of fresh baked goods permeated the air.
Savoring Dinner Downtown
Dish
Dish (1100 O Street) is an upscale sensory dining experience. Serving progressive American cuisine, the downtown restaurant is the hottest dinner reservation in town. Chef Rachel McGill, a James Beard Foundation Semi-Finalist for Best Chef: Midwest Award, leads the seasonal menu selections, which arrive thoughtfully prepared and beautifully plated.
Reserve a table to enjoy elevated fresh, innovative cuisine with views of bustling downtown Lincoln. The interior’s grey walls and black accents are illuminated by pendant lighting, creating a monochromatic aesthetic.
The menu features recipes that incorporate seasonally available sustainable ingredients. We asked our server, Evan, to present us with a variety of entrees in a progressive style, starting with Pistachio-Peach-Prosciutto and followed by Fried Chicken Yogurt and Pickles.
The award-worthy meal continued with Smoky Mussels + Parmesan Broth, concluding with homemade fruit sorbet served with melon segments.
We haven’t stopped raving about our dining experience. You can expect an unforgettable, delicious chef-prepared meal served by an attentive staff who caters to your every wish.
DAY 2
Beginning the Day with Breakfast
The Green Gateau
Everyone we met said we should dine at The Green Gateau (330 S. 10th Street), and they were correct. The food exceeded my expectations compared to any Midwest breakfast eatery, and our server was attentive and friendly.
The restaurant, which also serves lunch and dinner, is led by owner and executive chef Eric Lemke, who incorporates farm-fresh ingredients into seasonal menu selections.
However, locals can count on their favorites to stay on the menu, such as the ever-popular beignets served with copious amounts of powdered sugar and cinnamon and a side of lemon curd or strawberry jam.
A mix of American and European brunch classics, the menu includes selections not always offered, such as baked brie and crêpes. Our soup trio, consisting of French onion soup, lobster bisque, and tomato bisque, arrived steaming hot with six spoons.
We ate every bite.
The Hash, prepared with sliced corned beer, peppers, onions, and potatoes, was flavorful thanks to its well-seasoned preparation. A sample of The Benedicts confirmed that The Green Gateau’s take on the poached eggs classic was one of the best I’ve eaten.
We couldn’t eat another bite. In fact, we took the leftovers home with us because leaving them behind would be a crime. Nevertheless, our helpful server showed us the dessert tray featuring an array of goodies made by a local baker, especially for the restaurant. Next time, I’ll order the two-tiered carrot cake, one of the most requested desserts.
Crescent Moon Coffee
If spend time in the Historic Haymarket District, you owe it to yourself to enjoy a morning drink at Crescent Moon Coffee (140 N. 8th Street). The lower-level café is a Lincoln institution where artists, musicians, and poets take the stage to share their talents while java lovers sip on locally roasted coffee.
We dropped by before embarking on the farmers’ market just before a line formed at the register. The drink menu, featuring single-origin coffee and loose-lea tea drinks, also includes made-to-order crepes and panini.
I enjoyed a chai tea latted seated from a 70s style upholstered couch under a wood beam and brick ceiling. A couple chatted at a nearby cafe table as people came and went on a busy Saturday morning.
Shopping the Historic Haymarket District
Haymarket Farmers’ Market
Haymarket Farmers’ Market (7th and P Street) is one of the most robust, delightful open-air markets I’ve experienced in the Midwest. On Saturdays from May through October, musicians play while shoppers meander in and out of vendor tents to buy fresh produce and handmade products.
The smell of baked goods and sweet popcorn fills the air as dog owners walk amongst the crowd from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. every weekend, rain or shine.
People stroll brick streets in the Historic Haymarket District looking to buy something they didn’t know they needed until they saw it. A few shoppers are greeted with familiarity by vendors.
Fresh cut flowers, jewelry, bagged coffee, woodcut wall art. Each booth ignites a sense of discovery for something new at every glance.
If you’re feeling hungry while shopping, many food trucks offer nourishment from full meals to grab-and-go snacks. Preview what you can expect at an upcoming market via its Facebook page.
PRO TIP: Don’t waste time looking for a single parking spot. Pay $5 and park in a nearby reservable parking lot space. The lot attendant I paid accepted cash or Venmo payments.
From Nebraska Gift Shop
Several brick-and-mortar stores in the Historic Haymarket District deserve to be explored, including the From Nebraska Gift Shop (803 Q Street) known for its extensive inventory of gift items.
If it’s made in Nebraska, they probably carry it. Wine, jarred jellies, magnets, and other Heartland-themed items await. If you purchase ornaments when traveling, check out the Christmas room toward the rear of the store.
Best of Big Red
Even if you’re not from Nebraska, the Husker spirit is contagious. Shop at Best of Big Red (321 N 8th Street) for apparel, hats, and home decor representing the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s sports teams.
The store is a sea of red. Mascot bobbleheads shake, and neon signs buzz as you walk by shelves of grill accessories, foam fingers, coolers, and more. Racks of t-shirts, available in sizes S to XXXL Tall, anchor the center of the showroom.
Forever Faithful Boutique
Next door, Forever Faithful Boutique & Gifts (321 N. 8th Street) is where college-aged women shop to restock their closets with on-trend pieces like ripped jeans and cropped shirts.
Ascend the stairs to the Tailgate Deck to comb through racks of casual ware ideal for rooting on your favorite Nebraska team.
3 Daughters Boutique
3 Daughters Boutique (311 N. 8th Street) caters to women seeking everyday wear. The boutique-style fashions range from Liverpool jeans and trousers to jackets and jewelry.
Don’t worry—the store also celebrates the Game Day spirit by featuring scarlet red attire and fanny packs. Check out the sales racks in the back of the store for deep discounts.
Touring Lincoln’s Points of Interest
Hamann Rose Garden
Hamann Rose Garden (23rd and “N” Streets to 33rd & Sheridan Boulevard) is a tranquil escape from busy city life, a tucked-away botanical park at Antelope Park. Since the 1940s, visitors have strolled its paved pathways amongst rose beds, providing a kaleidoscope of color.
Bring your camera to take photos with a backdrop of vibrant roses, flora, and public art. We witnessed people reading on park benches to the sound of the fountain’s falling water. In the distance, I spotted a giraffe feeding through the fence at the nearby Lincoln Children’s Zoo.
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens (26th & D Street) is one of Lincoln’s sought-after points of interest due to its natural beauty. National Geographic included it in the 300 Best Gardens to Visit in the United States and Canada, and it lives up to the acclaim, providing visitors with 1.5 acres of shady trees, colorful flowers, and a koi pond to enjoy.
The garden is free to explore and open to all ages. We watched as young children curiously discovered bronze statuary while other visitors admired blooming perennials.
PRO TIP: Visit during Golden Hour (the last hour before sunset or the first hour after sunrise) to capture frame-worthy photography.
Nebraska State Capital
The Nebraska State Capital (1445 K Street) wasn’t on our travel itinerary, but we added it to view the interior’s breathtaking architecture and sweeping views from the observation deck. Sometimes, the unplanned stops are the most memorable.
This building is the third capital built on site. During a free one-hour guided tour of the museum’s main floor, a docent shared about the building’s construction from 1922 to 1932, which was designed by architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue with help from sculptors and mosaic designers.
I’d recommend the tour because it is the most comprehensive way to learn about its design, which includes Greek, Roman, and French influences. I appreciated the bronze sculptures of notable Nebraskans in the on display in the hallway adjacent to the vestibule.
After the tour, add time to explore observation decks for sweeping views of the city from its home in the heart of downtown. Interior courtyards are quiet spaces to escape the tour group and enjoy nature.
Check the building’s hours and tour information before arrival. One and two-hour street parking is available, or you can park in a garage a few blocks away.
PRO TIP: Tour the building’s exterior and admire the Abraham Lincoln statue on the West Plaza. The city is named after him. He opposed the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, which made Nebraska a United States territory.
Fueling up with Lunch
Piedmont Bistro
Piedmont Bistro (1265 S. Cotner Boulevard) came highly recommended by locals, so we ate lunch without hesitation. Serving Midwest comfort food led by chef Justin Stutzman, one can select from menus appealing to the time of day they’re dining.
We sat at a sunlit table indoors during lunch and enjoyed a Seared Salmon Nicoise salad and a Bistro Burger. The salad was impressive in size and flavor, and I’d order it again. The stacked burger was served with traditional toppings on a brioche bun with fries.
PRO TIP: Ask for a Brunch menu if dining Saturday-Sunday from 8:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m. Bar selections include a Piedmont Mimosa Pitcher for sharing amongst friends.
Admiring Artistic Talent
International Quilt Museum
You don’t have to quilt to appreciate the beauty of a well-made piece, and the International Quilt Museum (1523 N. 33rd Street) showcases some of the world’s most exquisite handiwork. With a collection of over 8,000 quilts in its inventory, the galleries’ pieces rotate regularly.
LUX Center for the Arts & Mural Tour
Visit the LUX Center for the Arts (2601 N. 48th Street), an art gallery in the UNI Place Creative District, where twelve murals dot the streetscape. Gallery exhibitions rotate regularly, featuring local, regional, and national artists every day of the year. During First Friday at the LUX!, the public is invited to see newly unveiled exhibitions from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
I thoroughly enjoyed learning about each artist, especially the printmakers whose work is showcased in the LUX Museum upstairs. The museum’s collection includes nearly 500 master prints, including works by John Steuart Curry and other renowned artists.
Outside, take a tour by foot of the immediate neighborhood to view vibrant street art creations in full view.
The historic neighborhood turned urban corridor is a painter’s canvas. Mural masterpieces adorn building facades in all directions. A designated alley between buildings serves as a space for the public to paint a wall–bring spray paint!
The University Place neighborhood also consists of various galleries, spas and salons, and locally owned shops and restaurants.
Sipping Cocktails and Dining in Style
Kate Martin
The secret is out. Kate Martin (735 O Street) is a speakeasy-style bar everyone is talking about for its ambiance and cocktail menu featuring recipes with a flair for the dramatic. The building was once a hotel with a bar and then a costume shop. Now, it’s where the locals go to unwind in style.
After entering a nondescript doorway, we flipped through a leather-bound book listing cocktails named after famous Nebraskans. Lively conversation at the bar ensued while we waited for our drinks: Malcolm Little and Johnny Carson.
We’ll always remember the cash-only lounge for its thoughtfully prepared cocktails and dimly lit ambiance. You must experience it first-hand.
PRO TIP: Arrive at 4:30 p.m. when they open to guarantee a seat. The bar is open until 12:30 a.m. seven days a week.
Fleetwood
Across the street, at Fleetwood (801 O Street, Suite 100), the restaurant’s interior resembles the sleek lines of a classic car, and the menu’s selections are equally legendary. Servers, wearing band t-shirts, place dinner orders via iPads.
With a few minutes to spare before the conclusion of Happy Hour at 6:00 p.m., we ordered drinks and shareable Teriyaki Steak bites for the table. The menu, a a combination of elevated cuisine, includes signature entrees such as Crispy Sirloin & Noodles, cornmeal-breaded catfish, and Pasta Primavera.
My Crispy Pork Shank in pot liquor gravy arrived perfectly cooked, allowing me to pull it off the bone and drag it through cheesy grits.
The pan-seared Porterhouse Pork Chop with gorgonzola honey butter was savory and rich-tasting. Overall, we were pleased with our selections. I was unwilling to part with the pork shank leftovers, so I happily took them home.
Vinyl Bar Haymarket
The good times continue next door at Vinyl Bar Haymarket (810 O. Street Suite 110), where a middle-aged crowd gathers with friends to drink creative cocktails and craft beer after 4:00 p.m.
You can expect the cocktail ingredients to match the interior’s vintage vibe. A seasonal menu features handcrafted cocktails with names like The Days Go By, Betty Rose, and Good Grief. I sipped a blanco tequila drink, Hot Donna, prepared with blackberry jalapeño syrup and lime saccharum while the sound of Barry White’s voice sang, “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love” through the lounge’s speakers.
The after-dinner crowd quickly occupied the lounge’s velvety chairs while others spilled onto the patio’s seating areas. Vinyl is a cozy, swanky lounge to take a date or join friends for an evening of conversation when not glancing at its television to catch sports highlights.
PRO TIP: Beer drinkers will appreciate the selection of 10 draft beers. Love cocktails? Ask about their espresso martinis.
DAY 3
Starting the Day in a Good Way
The Mill Coffee & Bistro at Nebraska Innovation Campus
The Mill (2021 Transformation Drive) is where everyone should go for coffee, tea, or a delectable early-morning bite to start their day. Open seven days a week, the spacious lounge is designed with rustic meets Art Deco design.
I chatted with the barista, Garrison, who told me the café doubles as a cocktail wine bar appealing to patrons who want to enjoy an evening libation.
The coffee, prepared with The Mill’s roasted beans, is also available on retail tables alongside writer’s journals, mugs, and various gifts. When you go, I recommend ordering a hot Café Latté with toasted marshmallow flavoring for a doubly delightful experience.
Hub Cafe
After an early-morning coffee, drive to Hub Cafe (250 N. 21 Street Suite 3), where the kitchen staff cooks made-to-order meals using sustainable ingredients. They served locally sourced breakfast, brunch, and lunch sourced from local growers.
Located at the confluence of the city’s bike trail network and adjacent to Union Plaza Amphitheater, The Hub is a busy place. It often requires a wait for its superior-quality scratch-made meals.
The interior is decorated with color murals, a prelude to the outdoor park’s intriguing public art installations.
PRO TIP: Attend Hub Farmers Market on Wednesdays or Hub Cafe Pizza & Pints on Fridays.
Going Underground Like a Local
Robber’s Cave
Give in to the allure of the underground at Robber’s Cave (925 Robbers Cave Road Suite B). The only show cave providing tours in Nebraska. Select Magazine lists it as a top Lincoln attraction, and I agree.
The cave, discovered in 1869, is walkable thanks to 10-14 foot ceilings and an easily traversable path illuminated by electricity. Over the years, people have used it for many purposes, from a brewery to an impromptu party space, but today, it’s a restored cave available for one-hour guided tours.
Tour guide Joel Green, a local high school teacher, makes the experience exceptional with his storytelling approach to explaining history while infusing pop culture references.
Stopping to wave his hand along the pathway’s sugar-like powder, we followed him into narrow passageways, venturing only as far as my claustrophobic mind would allow. The majority of the cave was wide and comfortable for me.
I’m not sure which was more fascinating, learning about the cave’s mysterious history or viewing the many inscriptions left on its walls from years past. Nonetheless, Robber’s Cave is a fascinating journey into local lore made better by Green’s engaging tours.
Preview the cave and reserve a tour, available to visitors of all ages, by calling (402) 975-0598.
I could easily return to Lincoln to see more of the city. If you have questions or suggestions about how to spend a weekend in Lincoln, drop them in the comments. I’d love to answer them for you.
The town may be known as the oldest city on the Missouri River, but its modern-day appeal makes it a town to put at the top of your travel bucket list.
As I enjoyed a bowl of fruit and a coffee, I watched as cycling groups and individual riders parked their bikes, enthusiastic to see one another. Tourists entered the adjacent bike shop to inquire about renting bikes and helmets for a day’s trek along the Katy Trail State Park’s route.
PRO TIP: The bike shop doubles as a bike rental stop and retail store. 
It wasn’t long before I was visiting with locals about the Frenchtown Historic District, a hub for art and music lovers who care deeply about the neighborhood and its history. The brewery’s lack of televisions created a setting conducive to making new friends.
PRO TIP: The museum is open during brewery hours and its contents rotate frequently.
Originating in St. Louis, Schlafly’s Bankside location is a three-story brewery and restaurant with indoor-only seating. I choose an unfiltered IPA from a list of 14 beers on tap. Although I wasn’t hungry, the gastropub-style menu options sounded good, and the portions were large by the looks of someone’s burger.
PRO TIP: I agree with Google reviewers. The restaurant gets busy by 10:00 a.m., so consider beating the rush and arriving at 9:00 a.m. like me.
The staff poured the way, I stirred it for less than a minute, and then they added a trimmed wick to complete it. Within two hours, my custom candle was available for pickup.
Shoppers can adhere patches of their choice to trucker-style ballcaps, a trending fashion accessory, or get creative and add them to a denim jacket. MJ’s offers hundreds of patches to choose from, whether you’re creating a hat for yourself or someone else.
PRO TIP: The shop and its sister location in town host regular events. View its 
Cookbooks, cutting boards, bakeware, you name it, they carry it. Choose from table linens to bottled condiments as you collect items for purchase.
PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for deals. Their signature line of bottled glazes and burger starters were marked down to only $5 at the rear of the store alongside other bargains the day of my visit.
The store’s inventory included year-round home decorations, faux flowers and plants, lamps, wall decor, candles, pillows, handbags, and jewelry.
If you’re looking for a treasure for yourself or someone else, expect to spend at least a half-hour perusing displays in the 4,700-square-foot store.
Today, it is home to over 70,000 residents who appreciate it for its historic roots as the state’s first capital city.
Retrace their journey by taking a self-guided tour of dioramas and exhibits that showcase natural artifacts. The most fascinating artifacts on view were the geological samples (Missouri geodes) and replica journal entries.
The museum sees over 25,000 visitors anually, including school groups, and many of its displays are kid-friendly. They will appreciate the Little Classroom walk-in house. 
PRO TIP: Walk behind the museum to see the 
Take a stroll along the Missouri riverfront’s paved sidewalks, taking breaks to admire one of the town’s well-known landmarks, 
My group, on The Key to the West: Pioneers, Explorers, & Traders…Oh My! tour, was handed old-school viewfinders to use when prompted by the tour guide along a five-block route. The guide talked as we walked from historic building to building, telling stories about the people who chose to live and work in St. Charles’ early days.
St. Charles was a center for trade, so the town’s center wanted it to become a capital city. Governor McNair signed a bill confirming its status in 1820, and legislators met there the following year to debate states’ and enslaved people’s rights.
The most interesting aspect of the tour was listening to our enthusiastic tour guide talk about the historical artifacts inside the restored Peck brothers’ general store and residence. The 1820s furnishings served as visual reminders or the hardship of early 19th Century life.
The top two levels of the building contain glass display cases filled with vintage soda bottles and merchandise representing a portion of one man’s collection. The main floor showcases many Coca-Cola-branded items, while the third floor showcases other soda brands.
PRO TIP: Add to the arcade experience by enjoying a meal from the snack bar with your favorite carbonated soda.
Once a train car factory in the 1920s, the building’s lower-level grand hall often hosts public events, including bingo nights and live performances.
After watching a 15-minute introductory film about Mark Twain and the cave’s natural formations, I embarked on the tour with a guide during a scheduled time. We mainly walked level ground into the well-lit cavern, stopping to admire the dugout considered Jesse James’ hideout. The outlaw and Mark Twain each signed their names in the cave.
Perhaps the most interesting part of the tour was at its end when we chatted about the artifacts recovered from inside on display behind glass.
The bartender did an excellent job educating customers about each one as she poured wine flights for them. I sipped a recommendable dry chardonnay, Satire, from an oversized chair while listening to streaming music. (The bartender’s Spotify playlist featuring Indie Rock was excellent.) For non-wine drinkers, a selection of beer and non-alcoholic drinks is available.
Patio seating is available outdoors. The winery hosts occasional live music on weekends, which is promoted on its 
PRO TIP: Look up at the wood beam and down at the original flooring to admire its architectural details.
How many references from Twain’s books can you recognize about these buildings?
As I approached the Jim’s Journey building, I was met by its director, who invited me to sit on a shaded bench and chat about our personal stories. During the guided tour of the one-room museum, I felt a sense of appreciation for her efforts to educate others about the black experience in Hannibal. I peered into cases containing handwritten letters and flipped through black-only class yearbooks.
The museum may be small in size but the impression it makes on visitors is impactful thanks to its incredible artifacts collection, the handiwork of its director.
I was struck by the café’s size and its menu offerings, which include nutritious meals for health-minded customers. The overnight oats parfait made with fruit and nuts complemented a hot vanilla latté, a nice alternative to a plate of eggs and potatoes.
PRO TIP: Bring the kids to enjoy a scoop of 12 flavors of hand-dripped ice cream served in waffle cones or cake cones.
PRO TIP: I asked my server what her favorite meal when on break at work. She recommended the Smoked Pork Sandwich with barbecue sauce.
The experience started with staff snapping my photo in front of a nautical backdrop before ushering me aboard and to my reserved table. Musician Tim Hart played acoustic guitar while guests enjoyed drinks and views of the river. After the captain announced dinner was ready, each table was invited to the buffet for a chicken breast or beef-tips dinner with a choice of sides.
Located about a 10-minute drive from downtown Hannibal, I recommend staying there if you’re seeking comfortable accommodations, whether traveling solo or with your family. The family dog is welcome, too.
As a first-time visitor, I was impressed by how the town has evolved since its days as the last stop for pioneers heading West. For a location considered the place to go in 1861, it’s maintained its visit-worthy status as a Midwest travel destination.
Entering into the Patee House Museum is like walking into Missouri’s version of the Smithsonian. The historic building’s enormity and contents are awe-inspiring.
I suspect you’ll find the U.S. provost marshall’s office, a wagonmaster’s blacksmith shop, and restored cars outside a 1920 replica service station fascinating. A self-guided tour of the first railway mail car and a ride on the Wild Thing Carousel is a must.
Not only is the three-room home historically accurate, but its glass cases house artifacts from Jesse’s grave recovered when they exhumed his body in the 1990s. DNA evidence proves with 99.7% accuracy that he was shot in the home.
Open Monday through Saturday from April through October; the Jesse James Home takes about 30 minutes to tour if you read the signage and ask questions of the museum’s host.
PRO TIP: Ask to see a replica skull that debunks the myth the gunshot that killed James exited his head, although a hole in the home’s wallpapered wall may prove otherwise.
PRO TIP: 
Wood floors creak under each step as you choose a seat at a student desk for the day’s lesson. An authentic pot-bellied stove, slate boards, and presidential portraits create a historically accurate setting.
Push button interactive stations play videos of his life story and CBS News broadcast clips, including Vietnam’s coverage during the war.
Various exhibits chronicle moments in Cronkite’s career history, including NASA’s landing on the moon, JFK’s assassination, and coverage of 16 Republican National Convention events. The “We Came In Peace” Saturn V Sculpture and Cronkite’s original newsroom desk make an impression.
The restaurant is decorated with draped beads on chandeliers and rope lights around interior columns. A taxidermy alligator on an upper shelf rests under neon signage.
The Blackened Salmon arrived heavily-seasoned for dinner, although slightly overcooked, so I requested a white cream sauce to drizzle on top of it. The signature Boudreaux Potatoes were cubed and boiled potatoes served in savory vegetable broth.
PRO TIP: Plan to save room for dessert. My only regret was not ordering dessert, which unfortunately did not include New Orleans-style beignets, but it did feature Bourbon Pecan Pie and Turtle Cheesecake.
A London Fog hot tea and layered pastry filled with Nutella curbed my cravings. Although the courtyard patio was inviting, I chose to sit inside while it rained outdoors. Chatting with employees about their love of the town’s art scene only confirmed my appreciation of St. Joseph.
PRO TIP: J
I selected a River Cream Ale, an approachable light beer from over 12 craft beers. It went down easy as I observed families gathering and couples arriving for date night entertainment.
Upon arrival, classical music played in the home’s foray, where a hand-carved wooden staircase led my eye upstairs to a row of stained glass windows. Opulent crystal chandeliers and tiled fireplace mantels adorned each room on the main floors. Period furniture, artwork, and a bust of Shakespeare completed the Queen Anne-style home’s interior.
I stayed in the 
A peek inside unoccupied suites revealed similar amenities. The bed and breakfast caters to couples and solo travelers, although the 
Innkeeper, Isobel, offers guests a remarkable experience unlike anything you’ve likely experienced. Reserve a suite at 
The 
During my return trip to Leavenworth, I was eager to take in places I had yet to discover and revisit old gems.
PRO TIP: The Burr-ow, a backroom space dedicated to reading or board gaming, is a quiet spot to work.
It’s a scenic area worth exploring for its birdwatching and native treelined grounds. The path lies parallel to an active Union Pacific railway, a nod to the town’s railroad era that replaced the Missouri River’s steamboat industry.
They recorded detailed notes about the region’s landscape for President Thomas Jefferson noting what people could expect heading west. Signage overlooking the river at 2nd and Dakota Street recognizes their visit to the area.
It’s the tucked-away murals that excite me the most. Keep your eyes peeled for smaller paintings on doors on various buildings downtown.
I dined on deviled eggs with bacon and a chicken cobb salad to the beat of Jamaican music while watching hosta leaves sway.
Between sips of iced tea, I noticed the hostess lead lunchtime diners to patio tables to enjoy the scenery, which resembled a nicely designed backyard landscape.
If you love old collectibles, you could spend hours perusing the mall while listening to oldies music play overhead. The friendly employee at the front desk is happy to answer questions about refurbishing relics.
Of course, you can always spot something delightful for the home when you’re ready to swap out your seasonal decor. From garden flags to great-smelling candles, CJ Gift Co. satisfies shoppers on a mission to beautify their space.
Expecting parents and grandparents will appreciate the owner’s selection of kid-loving plush toys. Seasonal items, bath products, and top-selling Leavenworth t-shirts round-out the front-of-store inventory.
PRO TIP: The store is also home to 5th Avenue Frames. Ask them to custom frame artwork, photography, or prints.
Consider creating a gift basket for someone while shopping for yourself. Whether one loves hot tea or cold brew, Queen’s Pantry Teas is the place to shop.
The owner, who was busily crafting jewelry in a studio, greeted me, as did her helpful staff. I perused the store, admiring an endless boho chic apparel and jewelry inventory.
The owners, a mother-daughter duo, carry the latest fashions for the season on display at the front of the store.
If the thought of enjoying the salty goodness of popcorn with the sweet flavor of your favorite candy bar excites you, stop by Popcorn Pit Stop for a grab-and-go bag.
Peruse the outdoor garden houses to shop for plants and flowering hanging baskets before entering inside the store for refrigerated food items. Travelers without coolers will appreciate jarred foods and bagged dry goods.
The sounds of Space Invaders and Mortal Kombat resonate through the arcade, open Thursday-Saturday. It’s an excellent place for all ages to enjoy indoor entertainment in a nostalgic setting.
The reservation-required dinner and a show were entertaining, and the best part of the evening was getting to know the guests at our shared table, who welcomed me like new friends. Three hours of fun flew by.
My King Suite home-life feel helped me unwind after a fun day of exploring. In the morning, I checked emails on my laptop using high-speed internet from a in-room workstation before enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast in the lobby.
In Merriam, the home offers visitors access to nearby parks and trails, boutique shopping, and local eateries, plus it’s minutes away from attractions like the 
Using a self-entry keypad, I entered the home and was impressed with its earth-toned furnishings and globally-inspired design. The interior was tastefully decorated simplistically. After a full tour of the house, it exceeded my expectations for design and cleanliness.
Upstairs, the main living room area is an inviting space seating multiple people comfortably. It’s the ideal place for adults to hang out and enjoy morning conversation over coffee or cocktails before preparing dinner.
The primary bedroom features a king-size bed with plush linens, a workstation desk area, and a ceiling fan.
Nearby secondary and third bedrooms include queen-sized, sun lit bedrooms with interior closets and ceiling fans. Extra blankets, an ironing board, and iron are available. Each is styled with minimal yet sophisticated decor keeping with the boho style.
Each shower and vanity comes with fragrant Tommy Bahama bath products so you can pack light overnight. Bright and cheery spaces, the bathrooms are tidy and clean, including fluffy towels and a hair dryer.
Something about the home’s decor, reminiscent of dessert colors and textures, inspired me to want to shake up a salty margarita using the bar cart station. Guests could use the arched window separating the kitchen from the living room to pass drinks to friends for a crowd-pleasing good time.
Inside, plenty of seating is available, with access to three sitting rooms. Savor a warmed blueberry scone and iced coffee amongst people gathering for friendly meet-ups or to work remotely using complimentary Wi-Fi.
If it’s your first visit, order the classic cheeseburger combo with crinkle-cut fries or tater tots. Fill a medium drink cup with fountain Pepsi before heading to a patio table.
PRO TIP: Check the bar’s 
Although tempted by a long list of flavors, I selected maple bacon ice cream, a satisfying choice. I watched kids play a video game console while others sipped Boba drinks and ate ice cream at brightly-colored seating areas.
A dog-friendly patio. Beers named after birds. Relaxed vibes indoors. What else could you want?
The shop also hosts merchandise drop and Moonlight Market events. Follow the 
Smiling employees greeted me with enthusiasm as I shopped for gifts for my niece, which they wrapped in pretty tissue paper. Like me, grab a mini shopping basket and enjoy the experience.
I watched as the owner drew illustrations on greeting cards and prepared them for sale, and of course, I bought one. Who can pass up a handmade greeting card? Short on time, I’ll definitely return to shop for pre-loved clothes or a handbag.
I sat on a bench near flowering shrubs while watching Turkey Creek’s water flow over rocks, creating instant calm. Native birds flew overhead as the trees gently swayed in the breeze.
A caterpillar sculpture by artist Joshua Weiner entitled 
Don’t miss a chance to appreciate public artwork installations at Merriam Marketplace, a fun area for group photos or selfies.
Kansas City Wheel
