Do you love a delicious pastry, freshly baked donut, or loaf of bread? Kansas adopted the nickname the Wheat State in the early 20th century as a leading producer of the nation’s wheat supply. The breadbasket of the world, the state’s bakeries are equally plentiful today.
While this list by no means includes all Kansas bakeries or pastry shops, you may discover one or two places to add to your travel bucket list.
TASTY PASTRY & COFFEE SHOP, CLAY CENTER
If you can leave Tasty Pastry Bakery & Coffee Shop (511 Court Street) with only one donut, it will be a miracle. The aroma of freshly baked pastries hits you when you enter the door. Glass displays hold stacks of homemade donuts and nut rolls.
The morning I arrived, the place was packed with small groups of diners at every table. Kids approached the counter, ready to order a cinnamon roll or cookie.
Tasty Pastry Bakery & Coffee Shop is open every day except Sunday. Arrive early to order the best pastry selection. The coffee is hot, and the donuts are fresh.
MUNCHERS BAKERY, LAWRENCE
I lived in Lawrence for nearly seven years, and like most residents, I knew that Munchers Bakery (925 Iowa St.) was the place to select a soft, pillowy donut. The highly-rated bakery, open 24 hours a day, has been in business for over 30 years.
The glass cases are filled with donuts of all kinds, but it’s the cream cheese donut that keeps residents asking for more. Whether you’re craving an early morning or late-night sweet treat, Munchers Bakery’s selection gets the job done. I recommend ordering a cinnamon roll.
Other bakeries in Lawrence worth checking out include Taylor’s Donuts and Wheatfields Bakery.
SERAPHIM BREAD, SALINA
I discovered Seraphim Bread (228C S. Santa Fe) on Instagram and knew I wanted to visit the shop when in Salina. Located inside Spillman Plaza in downtown Kansas, the artisan bakery produces fresh bread and pastries daily.
Residents in line in front of me said they like to stop in and purchase the sweet tools or muffins. I chose a Scotch Roll (hard-boiled egg surrounded by sausage and baked bread) for my breakfast treat as well as a ham and cheese biscuit for the drive home. Both choices were delicious.
AMANDA’S BAKERY, ABILENE
I heard that Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro (302 N. Broadway St.) was where the locals dine for breakfast. The downtown hangout is located in an old drugstore building in the heart of historic Abilene. They serve baked goods and breakfast originals and prepare specialty coffee drinks.
While the bakery is known for its scratch-made pastries, we chose to order two savory bagel sandwiches and lattes. I never turn down a sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich. The meal was delightful.
VARSITY DONUTS, MANHATTAN
Serving “donuts that make people happy,” Varsity Donuts has been serving warm, fresh donuts to the masses since 2011. I arrived early, hoping to find full cases of donuts and boy was I surprised at the large selection. My choice? A delicious maple glazed donut sprinkled with bits of bacon.
The second-best aspect of stopping in Varsity Donuts is learning about the building’s historic charm. It still has the original flooring, counter, and barstools from its days as a soda fountain. Look up, and you’ll discover pages of K-State yearbooks hanging overhead dating back to 1939.
THE FEATHERED FRENZY, BELLEVILLE
The Feathered Frenzy, located inside The Feathered Nest (1914 M. St.), is where you go if you’re craving a scratch-made pastry and a cup of coffee. I ordered a perfectly baked scone from the espresso bar to pair with a frothy latté.
A local hangout for Belleville residents, visitors to The Feathered Nest are surrounded by furnishings and home decor that is available for purchase. As soon as I walked in, I knew my wallet was in trouble. They also sell jars of Kansas-made gourmet foods and chef’ tools to complete one’s kitchen.
PARK STREET PASTRY, OLATHE
A one-minute drive from Junque Drawer is Park Street Pastry (103 E. Park St.), where lovers of authentic European desserts and sweet treats go. Pastry Chef Douglas Flick’s loyal customers know they can find freshly made cinnamon rolls, a popular breakfast choice, ready to order.
I recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was searching for lighter fare and chose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.
The lunch menu includes multi-layered sandwiches, salmon cake, BBQ meals, and more. Sandwiches come with a classic side garden salad.
HANA’S DONUTS, KANSAS CITY
Hana’s Donuts (2131 S. 34th St.) is tucked away in a neighborhood just waiting to be discovered by donut die-hards. Entering the parking lot, I saw one customer after another exit with boxes of goodies. The smell of donuts filled the air.
Inside, a family with several kids ordered a big box of donuts. Each child pointed at their choice. “I want the one with sprinkles!” the youngest boy exclaimed. Before their order was complete, the dad added, “and a dozen of the cinnamon bites, please.”
The display case was filled with every kind of donut you could imagine. Apple fritters the size of your hand. Blueberry cake donuts. Cinnamon rolls. And classics like maple long johns and old-fashioned crullers.
BIJOU CONFECTIONARY, HUMBOLDT
Homemade macarons. Blocks of fudge. Soft cookies. Bulk candy. You’ll find all of it, plus nostalgia bottled sodas, available at Bijou Confectionary (810 S. Bridge St.). I recommend stopping by to select a sweet treat after having lunch next door at HoneyBee Bruncherie. Cookies sell out quickly.
Use a scoop and bag to stock up on bulk candy priced at $10/lb. My lemon macaroon was perfectly soft, and the no-bake cocoa cookie lasted only minutes.
350 DEGREES BAKERY, LINDSBORG
Freshly baked goodies await your arrival at 350 Degrees Bakery (118 S. Main). It is hard to choose between cinnamon rolls, muffins, cookies, and Swedish Kringler, a flaky puffed pastry. The Swedish specialties sell out quickly, so plan to visit before the lunch hour.
Buy a bag of Rusk, which are pieces of cinnamon rolls double-baked to yummy goodness. They’re perfect for dunking into your coffee.
Another stop to make in Lindsborg is Crown & Rye (121 N. Main St.), a Swedish restaurant known for serving homemade pie and pastries.
THE DONUT WHOLE, WICHITA
The Donut Whole (1702 E. Doublas Ave.) is where cake donut lovers feel right at home! Maple Bacon, Cookie Monster, Lavender, Peaches and Cream…you name it, you’ll probably find a whacky flavor inside the donut case.
I recommend buying a couple of donuts, a coffee, or bottle of milk, and then heading to the lounge to enjoy them. Pinball machines, books, and games makes the experience a ton of fun. Don’t forget to take a selfie in front of the building’s many murals.
BAGATELLE BAKERY, WICHITA
On any given day, especially during lunch, Bagatelle Bakery (6801 E. Harry St.) sees a steady stream of customers. People arrive craving homemade empanadas, bierocks, or quiche. While some customers stop by to pick up a loaf of freshly baked bread, others stay for a meal that never disappoints.
Don’t think of leaving without having dessert. One look inside the glass case and you’ll want one of the pastries. Lovers of Bagatelle Bakery adore their artistic cakes for special occasions.
Other Wichita must-stops for donuts or pastries include Reverie Coffee Roasters, The Donut Whole, La Gallette French Bakery, Juarez Bakery, Great Harvest Bread Co., and Bakesale Treat Parlor.
OTHER BAKERIES I’VE ADDED TO MY TRAVEL BUCKET LIST
I’ve kept notes over the years about other notable bakeries that I’d like to visit when road tripping through the Sunflower State. My short list includes Sweet Pea’s Bakery (Seneca), 1900 Barker Bakery and Café (Paola), Rye (Leawood), Best Regards Bakery and Café (Overland Park), and Mad Eliza’s (Holton).
If you’re someone who loves to order a steaming cup of coffee with their breakfast, please read my blog post, 21 Kansas Coffee Shops You Simply Must Visit. While many of the coffee shops are not a bakery per se, they often serve scrumptious baked goods.
What other Kansas bakeries should I add to my travel bucket list? Please comment below with your suggestions.
The region is best known for its covered bridges and awe-inspiring views—towns like Winterset, St. Charles, and nearby Orient offer incredible dining, one-of-a-kind shopping, and unequaled museums.
Spending a weekend exploring Madison County will make you fall in love with it like I did.
I thought the Reuben on marble rye bread, a cup of homemade Strawberry Soup, and a glass of iced raspberry tea was divine. Sharing a towering lemon meringue pie, we chatted about Winterset and the town’s history.
PRO TIP: The eatery is open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., with limited seating. Small groups should reserve a table in advance. Add a few minutes of extra time to your lunch to peruse the restaurant’s displayed antiques – many of which are for sale.
A self-guided tour of Clark Tower was, by far, my favorite discovery. We traversed a narrow, one-mile road by car to the top of a curvy hill en route to it. Built in 1926 in honor of early settlers, the limestone landmark resembles something from a fairy tale.
Another park feature not to be missed includes the whimsical chainsaw sculptures by Iowa artist Gary Keenan. The English Hedge Maze leads to a sundial, and an adjacent bocce ball court invites parkers to play a game.
Nearby Bennett Cabin and Cutler-Donahue Bridge, each built in the 1800s, are photo-worthy attractions.
Seek out the stone bridge for another photo moment. It’s the location where Robert and Francesca’s movie scene was filmed.
PRO TIP: Traveling with kids? Prepare to explore the park and its play features for at least an hour.
Spanning 79 feet, the bridge is within walking distance of the road that winds through the park. You’ll appreciate the stone bridge, also nearby, the site of the movie’s film scene where Robert and Francesca enjoy a picnic.
Parking is available nearby, and the path to the bridge is easy to navigate.
After sampling red and white drier varieties, we ultimately bought a bottle of LaCresent 2021 (2017 Mid-American Wine Competition Silver winner) to bring home.
Whether you drop in for a glass of wine in the tasting room or on the patio overlooking the valley, I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. They don’t push wine on you to try, and instead serve you “whichever wine you like to drink.”
At 
During our visit, we chose to sit on the front porch to watch as summer rainstorm clouds developed. I sipped Lime Habanero Hard Cider, which finished sweet and sampled another favorite, John Wayne Bone Dry Hard Cider. Each one tasted crisp with authentic flavor.
PRO TIP: Check the 
You’ll appreciate the scenic view at this one. Like each covered bridge in the county, it was renovated in the 1990s to maintain its beauty.
Unfortunately, the bridge fell victim to arson twice in recent years and had to be reconstructed. The replica reminds us of the sentiment shared by the movie’s characters portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep.
He lived in Winterset until age seven. As a boy, he walked about town with his brother and dog, Duke. Eventually taking on the nickname Duke, the family moved to California in 1914. The actor starred in 170 films.
The first stop? The museum’s theater room for a short film highlighting his achievements. Next, take a self-guided tour of each of the two galleries.
I was curious about the actor’s collection of coffee mugs – he had a keepsake mug made for each movie. Handwritten letters, a car, clothing, and an address book were some of the personal items included in the collection.
PRO TIP: I recommend devoting at least an hour to touring the birthplace home and museum if you like to read each panel. Review the John Wayne In Iowa map showing the family’s moves across the state.
I was impressed to find a basket of free produce available near the checkout counter, which I assumed came from the community garden behind the library outside.
Modern benches with historical references were added to the park. I enjoyed learning about how George Washington Carver wandered into Winterset, where he lived and worked for two years.
An art alley with interactive murals is adjacent to the Madison County Courthouse. Artists James Navarro and Katie Jensen intended visitors to discover ways to pose with the paintings.
We shared a charcuterie board while sipping craft beers as a prelude to dinner. The Drift Salad and Roast Beef Panini served on locally sourced bread made the dining experience exceptional.
PRO TIP: If you’re not a craft beer drinker (21 Iowa beers on tap!), ask about wine and mead selections. Non-alcoholic beers are an option.
A restored 1908 country home turned 
A short drive from dining, shopping, and museums in Winterset, it was perfect for us. We watched the movie The Bridges Over Madison County at night while drinking champagne in a room surrounded by antiques and framed artwork.
The charming home had every comfort we wanted, and to be honest, I loved the experience so much that I wished the house was for sale so we could buy it.
The creak of the original wood floors.The sunset view from the porch. I loved our stay, as will you.
From fresh groceries to retro candy and sodas to home decor and toys, you’ll find something you can’t leave the store without. I purchased a scented candle, Fresh Cut Grass.
PRO TIP: Kids get a free used book when they visit, and the monthly book club selections keep shoppers returning for new reads.
The clothing, shoes, and accessories for sale are on-trend, including the latest seasonal fashions. The inviting store features a stroller parking zone and interactive spaces for kiddos, such as a push-and-listen station (are those bees buzzing?) and a toy treasure box.
In preparation for fall, I noticed an abundance of witchy decor items; however, they may sell similar whimsical gifts year-round.
Seasonal floral picks and sit-a-bouts are arranged in vignettes throughout the store.
Most of the jewelry is handmade by the owner. Silver spoons are crafted into rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Shoppers in search of faith-based finds will appreciate the store’s inventory.
PRO TIP: Like what you see here but can’t make it to the shop? Visit her 
I loved how each houseplant was given a name to make the shopping experience more fun. I couldn’t leave without buying a handcrafted greeting card for our house host.
PRO TIP: Visit the 
We enjoyed a five-sample tasting of wines of our choice while visiting with the owner/winemaker. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the process of wine production from vine to glass while we enjoyed a platter of artisan cheeses, meats, and chocolates with our wine.
I appreciated the aged white cheddar with the dry Rosato red wine. Other favorites included crisp and refreshing Vignoles, semi-dry white Hunter’s Moon, and Red Cabernet.
What started as a jewelry business evolved into a specialty store selling dishes, apparel, gourmet foods, fresh floral arrangements, and more.
Wayward Saints Farm LLC produces goat milk products such as soaps, lotions, and hand-poured soy candles. You may find them at an area farmers market when they are not running the shop.
On the day of my visit, I voted for my favorite quilt, a 3-D pattern, from the collection “Welcome Home: A Celebrate of Quilts.” It was interesting to look closely at the handiwork of quilts dating back to the 1850s.
PRO TIP: The museum installs new 
PRO TIP: If you visit Friday-Sunday, stop next door at the 
Upon our arrival, we followed the path to the kitchen to order our brick oven pizzas and house-made cucumber salad. We walked with craft beers in hand to a table of friendly locals who welcomed us to sit with them.
Live folk music played as we dined on two styles of pizzas and engaged in conversation with our new friends. Inspired by the sunset, we left the table to walk a manicured path through the prairie amongst towering sunflowers and a temporary Prairie Art Exhibit.
The unique experience left an impression on us. After driving back from the event, we vowed to do two things: 1.) Learn how to make fresh tomato compote (delicious on the pizza) and 2.) Take our new friend’s advice for aging well, “Stay active and be social.”
PRO TIP: Bring lawn chairs or a picnic blanket to the event.
The popular cafe serves gorgeous, scratch-made pastries with top-quality coffee. The grab-and-go options like salads, wraps, and bakery items made with locally sourced ingredients.
Craving an old-fashioned cherry Pepsi®, I entered the store and headed to the back, where I discovered a nostalgic scene. Residents sat on bar stools and in booths, enjoying a hot breakfast and discussing the day’s events.
Only a 12-minute drive southwest of Winterset, the park is well-revered by locals for its five miles of trails, picnic areas, and historic 1858 Harmon Tunnel – the only highway tunnel in the state.
The town celebrates the park’s 100th anniversary this year.
FESTIVALS AND FAIRS
It’s time you plan a vacation to Madison County, Iowa.
I had the pleasure of staying overnight in Clay Center to make the most of my visit. With a population hovering at about 4,000 people, the tight-knit community rolls out the red carpet for visitors. I arrived in town just after sunrise and parked not far from the limestone courthouse in the town square.
I ordered The OG Acaí Bowl, a blend of acaí (berries of a South American palm tree) and banana topped with fresh fruit, locally sourced honey, coconut shreds, and granola. The delicious breakfast bowl was filling and a healthy alternative to a traditional breakfast. I sat at a table covered in chalkboard paint (colored chalk available!) and admired the artwork on the walls. A table near a cozy seating area sat covered with colorful stickers and board games.
Happy Hippie Studios is more than a place where wellness-driven people come for a tasty bite. A certified yoga instructor, Hammel encourages visitors and locals to join a yoga class or enjoy on-site massage therapy, sauna treatments, and esthetician services.
Hammel’s drive and determination are the only things more impressive than the studios. An award-winning business owner under 30, she grew Happy Hippie from a one-blender farmers’ market stand to a flourishing business. In fact, she served 150 smoothies on opening day. No wonder her slogan is “Smoothies Make People Happy.”
The town’s espresso bar and artisan restaurant are centrally located near retail shops and local businesses. I talked with the owner, Mike Peerson, about his business while he made cold brew. Multi-tasking is a skill Java Junkies employees have to master since the coffee shop is seemingly always busy.
The smell of coffee permeates the air. I enjoyed the Latté of the Week selection while relaxing inside the cafe during my visit. The menu also features early morning selections ranging from scones and pecan rolls to muffins and breakfast burritos. You’ll also find heartier meals like grilled PB&J or cheese sandwiches, as well as turkey wraps on the menu.
I returned on Day 2 of my stay in Clay Center for a hot coffee. The line reached from the counter almost to the door while employees hurriedly served patrons. They were busy for a good reason. The 4th Annual Java Junkies T-Rex Race for charity was about to start, and race fans wanted to fuel up before watching it. (More on the race later!)
The 299-seat theatre is a gem in the heart of the town. It’s where many locals have come for years, noting memorable moments. Director Reneé Langvardt and her employees work hard to provide an unforgettable experience. During the summer, families enjoy Free Movie Friday. When school children are released early from school on scheduled days, the theatre plays a movie to keep them entertained.
When the lights are up, visitors can see the theatre’s stunning architecture including ornate plaster made of horsehair. The modern seating provides a comfortable movie screening experience. Newly restored bathrooms are adorned with framed images of Hollywood stars of the past. The original tile floor and entryway harken back to an earlier time.
The concession stand is fully stocked with the movie popcorn, cotton candy, and candy selections you crave. Ask about combo deals. Adults can enjoy beer and wine.
As I drove up to The Schoolhouse Inn, I noted the bell in the tower and the oversized windows and doors. Inside, the interior was decorated in neutral tones. The restored hardwood floors creaked as I toured the accommodations. The open living room space easily included enough seating to accommodate several guests. Original chalkboards carved with the initials of rambunctious students flanked two sides of the room.
Two bedrooms with plush queen-sized beds with end tables and armoires welcomed me. Which one would I choose? The rooms were equally inviting. The full bathroom with a modern shower included the amenities of home plus a basket of toiletries.
Although The Schoolhouse Inn did not have a kitchen, I had access to a small refrigerator and freezer, Keurig coffeemaker, and microwave. The refrigerator was filled with bottled water and soda products. Complimentary drinks and snacks made the stay unexpectedly comfortable.
Because The Schoolhouse Inn sits on the owner’s private property, I found it to be a peaceful and quiet setting. If you want to stay overnight in The Schoolhouse Inn, contact the owner via their 
The brewery is kicking out some of the area’s best beers. I ordered a four-pour beer flight to sample several brews. As a travel writer, I’ve drank quite a bit of craft beer, and I’m pleased to say that I enjoyed all of the Brew House’s selections. 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.
Voted “Best Burgers in Clay County,” I wasn’t going to miss my opportunity to order the stacked and smothered Gouda Mac burger. The sandwich is a feast for the eyes. Gouda bites drip with chipotle aioli atop a burger with bacon. You won’t leave a single bite on the plate – so leave room for crispy waffle fries! Other menu options include steaks, pizzas, salads, and appetizers. View the 
I was fortunate to get a private tour of the backroom brewing facility by Brew Master & General Manager Clint Armstrong. A few questions in, and I realized that Clint is the real deal. He cut his teeth on beer brewing like most beginners and then sought the mentorship of the pros while living in Colorado.
When visiting Brew House, carve out enough time to enjoy a meal and a few beers while chatting with locals. Taproom Manager Phil Kasper is a friendly, welcoming guy eager to chat about Clay Center or beer. If the weather is nice, enjoy the newly installed patio for a view of downtown.
I had the opportunity to meet various animals thanks to a guided tour by facility employees. I watched black bears dine on snacks. A lemur ate raisins from my hand. And beautiful birds like the ones pictured above chatted excitedly while we observed them. The zoo is undergoing a major renovation that includes the addition of an aviary that will become a habitat for various birds.
Ginger has operated the business for 36 years providing locals and visitors a place to shop for a gift for themself or someone else. They pride themselves on carrying the best brands in the business. Nora Fleming, Brighton, Michel Design Works, The World’s Best Pan…you name it, you can find it at Ginger’s Uptown. Plus, they make shopping for their products easy if you can do so in person.
I challenge you to try leaving the store without buying something. I couldn’t do it. Home cooks will appreciate the specialty foods corner that includes fill-a-bottle olive oils. Ladies looking to add glam to their wardrobe will appreciate the clothing and jewelry selection. And women looking to purchase seasonal home decor will gasp in amazement at the displays that welcome shoppers.
Known for its wedding registry services, the store caters to those who need to pick up a gift for the bride and groom. Rumor has it that they’re on almost every local wedding registry. Ginger is the queen of ribbons and is known for creating wow-worthy gift baskets. They can also ship you 99% of the inventory, and you can shop from the store’s website to order online.
The Uptown Girls host Thursday Coffee Talk sessions on Facebook live showcasing the newest inventory. Events like All That Glitters Christmas Showcase always promise big crowds, so signing up to attend one of the sessions in advance is key.
The 
PRO TIP: If you accompany a country club member, you can golf the course or enjoy a meal in the dining room as their guest.
After a fire destroyed their old facility, the owners drew design plans for the current building on butcher paper. The converted Dollar General Store is the town’s meat locker keeping locals’ refrigerators stocked with Kansas beer and pork products. It’s also a one-stop shop for grab-and-go shopping. They carry a large selection of beer and road-ready snacks.
PRO TIP: Pack a large iced-down cooler for your trip to Clay Center to fill it up with frozen meat. Oh, and don’t miss the back shelves stocked with private-label pickled vegetables and salsa.
Piotique Celebration takes place on the last Saturday of September every year. A tradition since 1936, hundreds of people turn out to watch parades, shop for food and craft vendors, play games, watch Cruise Night, and listen to live music. Expect large crowds to watch festivities downtown if the festival falls on the same weekend as homecoming.
The 4th Annual Java Junkies T-Rex Race for charity drew hundreds of spectators this year. Sponsored participants donning inflatable costumes sprinted down a city block to earn their way into the final heat. The winner earned $1,000 to donate to a charity of choice. It’s an event that is not to be missed.
Milford Lake is a 30-minute drive southeast of Clay Center. It’s an exceptional location for birdwatching, hiking, water sports, and overnight lodging in cabins or via campgrounds. Read what you can expect at Milford Nature Center in a post about Junction City 
I’m not going to lie. I felt a little tug on my heartstrings as I pulled out of town, leaving my new friends behind. The town’s people are welcoming, and with so much to do and see in Clay Center, it made it hard to leave.
Go for the murals. Drop into town to dine at the restaurants. Plan a trip around the town’s many events and festivals. No matter the time of year, Clay Center is a wonderful place to explore.
The cafe is where locals meet to catch up about the latest happenings in town. Where travelers like me enjoy quiet time and peruse the internet using free Wi-Fi. And where you can shop for gift items from kitchen towels to home decor.
This list of coffee shops is just a handful of the ones I’ve visited across the state but worthy nonetheless to share with others. What coffee destination should I add to my travel bucket list?
Amanda’s is more than just another small town coffee shop. It’s also a retail store that sells antiques, gifts, greeting cards, and farmhouse decor. It was as if we were sitting inside someone’s beautiful home but everything was for sale. We watched as residents came into Amanda’s for their usual morning coffee. It’s the kind of place where they remember your order and greet you with a smile.
The Seelye Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is considered one of the finest homes in Kansas. Built in 1905, it has 11 bedrooms, a bowling alley, a grand piano, and many of its finishes are painted with gold. The cost at the time to build the 11,000 square foot home? $55,000.
In the dining room, I sat at the head of the table where the Seeyle’s once hosted presidents and state governors. We were surrounded by luxury. The Seeyle’s spared no expense to outfit their home with the best money could buy. You must see it for yourself. Wait until you see the Tiffany-designed fireplace in the grand hall! And don’t forget to check out the 1905 Box Ball bowling alley in the basement.
The grounds of the mansion are equally stunning. The gardens feature a goldfish pond, a pedestrian bridge, and water fountain. Open year-round to visitors, it’s transformed during the holidays. At Christmas time, the home is decorated with 80 trees and over 700 nutcrackers. That’s a party I want to attend!
Our train ride, although bumpy and a bit noisy, was worthwhile because it gave us a chance to relive what it must have been like to ride the rails. Operated by volunteers, we listened to the sounds of the excursion train as it traveled about 1o-15 mph. The view of Kansas farm fields was breathtaking. To book a train ride online, choose from three options: Regular Excursion, Dinner Train Ride, or Steam Locomotive Train rides 
Then, you’re free to explore the museum’s displays covering the highlights of the racing sport from ancient times to the present. Notable greyhounds made history for their agility and fast running times. Inductees of the Hall of Fame date back to 1963.
Don’t be surprised if you’re approached by a retired racer! During our visit, we met three rehabilitated greyhounds who happened to be visiting the museum with their owner. I had never met greyhounds in person and found them to be quite friendly. Once bred to be hunting dogs to chase hare, fox, and deer, they are graceful and make loving companions. One of the dogs (pictured below) nuzzled up to me to let me know that it was fond of me – such a sweetheart!
The grounds are open to the public to explore on any given day. However, I recommend checking their Facebook page to plan your visit around one of the many events they host from simulated gunfighter shootouts to concerts. Chisholm Trail Days includes pioneer impersonators, a draft horse pull, vendors, and artisans. Stop into the saloon for a cold drink and then sit on a bench and watch the town come alive! To learn more about Old Abilene Town and the Heritage Center, read a blog post I wrote about both locations 
We tried the Spinach Artichoke Dip crepe, which was made fresh in front of us. Have you seen crepes made? It’s fun to watch the crepe maker pull the liquid around the hot stone until it is finished. The texture of our crepes were pillowly soft and the inside was tasty with a hint of garlic flavor. I enjoyed the lunch with a glass of iced Blackberry Hibiscus House Tea.
While downtown, I encourage you to visit 
The restaurant filled up quickly with hungry customers and it wasn’t long before the hostess stand put some of them on a 10-15 minute wait. If visiting The Hitching Post during the weekend, I recommend visiting as soon as they open. View their hours and daily special via their 
Are you considering making 
Inside the Buffalo Bill Culture Center, you’ll find permanent and on-loan displays that provide details of the area’s history. I watched a fascinating short movie, “Hidden History – The Ghost Town of Sheridan Kanas 1868,” about a lawless town made up of mostly saloons not far from Oakley. The Kansas Pacific Railroad’s tracks ended there. The video told of men hung from railroad trestles and a mass grave created to bury the dead. The town existed for 15 short months. You can view an oil painting, “End of the Track,” by local artist Chuck Bonner on the wall of the center.
The center also serves as the town’s travel information center, so it’s best to stop there before exploring Oakley. I discovered extensive travel brochures, maps, and a gift shop. The staff was eager to answer my questions and offered me freshly brewed coffee. If you need to research area attractions, knowledgeable employees will help you, or you can use the free WiFi to search the internet. A pet-friendly building, and travelers with dogs appreciate the indoor and outdoor accommodations.
George Sternberg’s rare fossil, a 15′ Xiphactinus Audax, is the world’s oldest known mosasaur, and it sits on display for museum visitors to enjoy. The room that houses it also showcases a mosasaur skull. For fossil hunters and fans, this room promises to get their hearts racing. Since the museum sits on the 
Other museum rooms tell the story of the life of the prairie. You can walk into a replica of a sod house, view the interior of a general store, and listen to audio stories about the railroad. What do you think it would have been like to live before modern technology? The museum showcases the impact of modern communication on society, dating back to the telegraph to the telephone.
I scanned the land. I didn’t see tall rocks protruding from the land. Where were they? Then, out of nowhere, I spotted them. Monuments Rocks or “The Chalk Pyramids” stood as an outcropping just off the road, and I had the entire place to myself.
Located on private land, Monument Rocks is open to the public during daylight hours. The sedimentary formations are Niobrara Chalk, formed during the Cretaceous period on the Western Interior Seaway 80 million years ago. The lines in the rock indicate how the limestone evolved over the years. Listed as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, it nearly takes your breath away. It’s easy to see why it was listed as the first National Natural Landmark in Kansas.
I circled the formations with my car and then parked. My path was bright white, and the sun bounced off the rock, illuminating the area. It’s hard to describe the size and scale of the formations. They are enormous. It is reported that every inch of rock represents 700 years of history.
If you’re interested in visiting the outcroppings for yourself, I recommend traveling on a cool weather day or during the morning hours. Avoid making the drive if rain is in the forecast. It’s advisable to pack water and wear closed-toed shoes. To get there, drive 20 miles south of Oakley on U.S. 83, then 4 miles east on Jayhawk Road, 3 miles south, and 1 mile east (dry weather road only).
The Keystone Gallery overlooks the Smoky Hill River valley with a view of Monument Rocks in the “Badlands of Kansas.” I encourage you to look inside the glass cases at the museum and ask questions. Each fossil comes with a story about its discovery, journey to the museum, and the process of preparing it for display.
Before I left Keystone Gallery, I had one question for Chuck and Barbara. What was the story of the old car sitting near the entrance? I was told that Chuck used the 1948 Chevy Suburban for fossil hunting. Now, it sits as an artistic showpiece on the property. Oh, the stories this car could tell! Look closely at the photos below to enjoy the characters representing creatures of the deep.
I’ll never forget meeting Chuck and Barbara. They taught me so much about the region, but more importantly, how to enjoy what you do for a living. To visit Keystone Gallery, drive on U.S. 83, 26 miles south of Oakley or 18 miles north of Scott City. Thirty years later, the couple continues to share their love of fossils with others. View the gallery’s hours 
A visit to Oakley offers more than a few tourist stops. (I’ll return to visit 
