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Tour the Award-Winning Town of Abilene, Kansas

September 12, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Abilene, Kansas offers visitors a multitude of places to explore that celebrate its history. Voted the Most Beautiful Small Town in Kansas by House Beautiful (2020), it deserves the recognition. From the American flags lining Buckeye Avenue to the museum honoring U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower to the restored downtown buildings, Abilene proudly represents small-town America. Take Exit 272 from KS I-70 to experience the award-winning town for an afternoon or overnight stay.

LODGING

During a recent visit to town, we discovered that we weren’t the only ones who wanted to stay in Abilene for Labor Day weekend. It’s a popular Kansas destination! The town was bustling with visitors attending the Heart of America Greyhound Gathering (the town is the Greyhound Capital of the World) and Chisholm Trail Days.

We stayed at an Airbnb home (320 Northeast 5th St.) located close to the downtown area. The accommodations were quaint and the proximity to town was a plus.

BREAKFAST

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.

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.

ATTRACTIONS

HISTORIC SEELYE MANSION

We visited Abilene a few years ago, but didn’t get the opportunity to tour the historic Seelye Mansion (1105 N. Buckeye Ave.). Voted one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture, the impressive home was worth the visit. We met Terry, the home’s current owner, who gave us a personalized tour of the property. As others arrived to see the home, they joined our tour already in progress. Terry’s enthusiasm for the home’s history was contagious. It wasn’t long before we were captivated by the story of the Seelye family.

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.

Who was the Seeyle family and why did they build a mansion in Abilene? The father, Dr. A. B. Seelye was a wealthy entrepreneur who made his family’s fortune by pedaling patented medicines. If you look closely at some of the ingredients on the labels of the medicine bottles and boxes, you’ll find substances that would never be approved for use today. What do you notice on the label below?

The Patent Medicine Museum includes artifacts from the A. B. Seeyle Medical Company. You can view many of the over 100 products in their original bottles and boxes inside the Visitor’s Center located behind the mansion.

Did the medicines cure all ailments? They certainly claimed to do so. The family sold “medicine” to a 14-state territory.

The Seelye family bought the entire city block and had James C Holland, a New York architect design it. Have you heard of him? He also designed the Kansas Capitol building. Frank Lloyd Wright was commissioned to help with the interior design.

Helen and Marion, the Seelye daughters, lived in the home for the rest of their lives. The current owner, Terry, eventually convinced them to let him buy the property as long as he agreed to live in it with them. He moved in and became their “honorary grandson.” Today, he maintains the home and gives tours to 8,000-10,000 visitors per year.

The Seeyle sisters did not want a TV in their room, especially after Terry moved in. They preferred to read the books in the library. Eventually, Terry snuck in a TV. The sisters became fans of Jeopardy and were caught watching it often in the neighboring room.

During our tour, we were taken to each room to hear about the home’s architectural design and its contents. The youngest piece of furniture is 100 years old. We sat on chairs purchased at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. Our tour group gazed upon first-edition library books, original Edison light fixtures, and gold-painted fresco ceilings. Terry even played the family’s Steinway piano as well as pipe organ for us. We were in awe.

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!

I’d recommend carving out at least 2-3 hours for a guided tour of the property. To learn more about touring the Seeyle Mansion, visit their website.

THE LEBOLD-VAHSHOLTZ MANSION

Although not open for tours during our time in Abilene, the Lebold-Vahsholtz Mansion (106 N. Vine St.) is worth seeing up close for its impressive size and design. Some say it resembles the Addams Family house! The 23-room home was built in 1880 with Victorian finishes. According to its historical marker, C.H. Lebold was a local businessman who chose the site of the town’s first log cabin to build his mansion on. It cost $18,000 to build it. When he lost his money during the depressions, the house was turned over to creditors. It was purchased in 1974 by the Vahsholtz family and restored. Today, Joseph Tatner hopes to bring the mansion back to life and reopen it for tours.

EISENHOWER LIBRARY & MUSEUM

Another well-known attraction in Abilene is the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum (200 SE 4th St.). Unfortunately, it was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions during our visit. However, I have toured it in the past and wrote a blog post about what you can expect when visiting it.

The 34th president of the United States and 5-Star General spent his childhood in Abilene. His boyhood home (pictured below) is one of three sites on 22 acres of land open to tours during regular hours. To learn more about visiting his home, library, museum, and memorial, visit this link.

ABILENE & SMOKY VALLEY RAILROAD

Across the parking lot of the Eisenhower complex, the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad (200 SE 5th St.) allows visitors to ride the rails pulled by a 100-year-old steam engine. All aboard! We took the two-hour round-trip ride inside an open air car from Abilene to Enterprise, Kansas.

The trek took us through the Smoky Hill River Valley with views of rural Kansas eventually stopping at the Hoffman Grist Mill where we learned first-hand how farmers mill flour and corn. Inspired by the historic lesson, we shopped inside the retail store and took home 2 pounds of freshly milled grits.

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 here.

Before or after the train ride, I’d recommend also touring the Fred Schmidt Railroad Museum inside the original depot. It teaches visitors about railroad life and the impact the transportation system had on the economy at the time. Kids will enjoy the model train exhibits and ringing the bell!

GREYHOUND HALL OF FAME MUSEUM

Touring the Greyhound Hall of Fame Museum (407 S. Buckeye Ave.) is a treat for dog-loving families. It’s an opportunity to learn about dog racing and how Abilene became the Greyhound Capital of the World. The museum tour begins with a 10-minute movie recounting the history of the sport.

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!

To learn more about visiting the museum dedicated to man’s best friends, visit their website to check museum hours and event information. Admission is free and donations are welcome.

OLD ABILENE TOWN

One of the reasons I appreciate visiting Abilene is because the residents work hard to preserve town’s heritage for future generations to enjoy. Old Abilene Town’s historical marker tells the story of Joseph McCoy, an Illinois stockman, who built cattle yards at Abilene. The town became the first of several cattle towns along the Chisholm Trail. Old Abilene Town is a replica of years gone by.

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 here.

LUNCH

Ortus Café & Gallery (118 NW 2nd St.) in downtown Abilene sits in the historic Post Office Block built in the 1800s. Today, the cafe takes up a part of the building that was once a billiard hall. The renovated space is home to an eatery serving sweet and savory crepes. It’s an excellent choice for a mid-day meal.

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.

I suggest stopping at Ortus Café & Gallery if you’re interested in dining on a light lunch between touring attractions. The building’s stained glass windows offset the café gallery walls making it a nice-looking space to enjoy your meal.

SHOPPING

Downtown Abilene

Unlike some small Kansas towns that only have one long downtown scene, Abilene’s shopping and dining area is a large district. I recommend parking the car in the center and walking the area to shop at stores like Rivendell Bookstore (212 N. Broadway). They sell a large selection of new and used books (ask about the orange stickers). If you walk to the back of the store, you’ll find a big selection of new puzzles for sale. Keep the shopping fun going by visiting another popular store in the downtown district, Jeffcoat Photography Studio Museum (321 Broadway). Operating since 1921, it features old cameras and framed prints.

While downtown, I encourage you to visit Little Ike Park (324 N. Spruce St.) to see a statue of young Dwight D. Eisenhower. A mural makes for a beautiful backdrop to the park and invites visitors to take photos there. Fun Fact: Eisenhower lived in the family home in Abilene with his five brothers from 1898-1911.

Russell Stover

Candy lovers will want to jump back in the car and drive to the Russell Stover retail store (1993 Caramel Blvd). As soon as you step inside, the smell of chocolate hits you! Grab a cart and stock up on boxed chocolates, gourmet caramel apples, discounted holiday candy (in the back room!), and handmade fudge. I was told that the most popular flavor of fudge is chocolate peanut butter.

Look how big this box of chocolates is compared to me! You can find boxed candy for every season and occasion on sale in the store’s back room. This Whitman’s Samples was marked down to $19.99. Would you buy it? I resisted the temptation and left the store with individually packaged turtle truffles instead.

Although you can no longer tour the factory to watch chocolate made or packaged, the retail store offers plenty of sweet options for shopping in search of confections. Remember when you would open a box of Russell Stover’s chocolates and bite into each one to discover its flavor? Now, you can build your own box of favorite chocolates priced by the pound. Prefer ice cream over candy? Visit the counter to have the staff scoop up a waffle cone full of your favorite flavor. Don’t forget to also check out the wall of Jelly Belly dispensers filled with 48 flavors of candy!

DINNER

Our final stop in Abilene was for dinner and drinks at The Hitching Post Restaurant & Saloon (100 SE 5th St.). We eagerly bellied up to the bar to enjoy the $2.50 beer can special before enjoying dinner. The down home restaurant seemed to be the place where locals dine on comfort classics like hand-cut choice beef steaks. Looking around the restaurant, I noticed that several diners were enjoying the Country Fried Steak dinner, so I ordered it as well. It came with two sides and a dinner salad. For the price, the portions were plentiful. Since it was Friday night, they were also serving a Prime Rib Special.

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 Facebook page.

I’ve always enjoyed visiting Abilene for its welcoming atmosphere and long list of attractions. Whether you take a spontaneous day trip to town off of KS I-70 or plan for an overnight stay, Abilene’s historic sites, shopping, and dining scene make it a 5-star small town. I look forward to returning a third time to check out the Eisenhower Park and Rose and Garden Great Plains Theatre.

Are you considering making Abilene a stop on your KS I-70 road trip? I encourage you to visit their website or leave your questions below in the comment section for me. I’m happy to guide you to give you insider advice.

Top Things to Do in Oakley, Kansas

August 25, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

The western Kansas town of Oakley is a haven for fun things to do. My road trip on KS I-70 led me to Exits 70 and 76 where attractions like the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center and Fick Fossil Museum promised a day of fun. But before I could focus on the town’s history, I needed something to eat.

BREAKFAST

SUNSHINE BAKERY

I pulled the car over at Sunshine Bakery (3502 US-40), a delightful donut shop of modest size. I made it with only minutes to spare before they closed. The employee was super nice and told me to take my time choosing my breakfast treats. Sometimes when you make it to “last call” at a donut shop, you’re left with only a few donuts to choose from. Not the case at Sunshine Bakery. Trays of crullers, fritters and cream-filled donuts stared back at me. I went for a glazed donut and a fresh-baked vanilla cake donut. The corner bakery is the place to stop for breakfast in Oakley. The drive-thru stays busy all morning, so I recommend parking and heading inside.

ATTRACTIONS

BUFFALO BILL CULTURAL CENTER

Since my room at the Kansas Country Inn (3538 US 40) wouldn’t be ready for several hours, I made my way to the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center (3083 US 83) on the edge of town to view the twice life-sized bronze sculpture of William F. Cody. It was voted one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art. You can’t miss the sculpture as you turn into the parking lot.

Cody aka “Buffalo Bill” grew up on the Kansas plains and made his living as a contract buffalo hunter. The meat was provided to nearby Fort Wallace to feed soldiers. Cody also worked for the army as a civilian scout. When he heard another buffalo hunter, Medicine Bill Comstock, was a competitor, he suggested they stage a contest to see which hunter could harvest the most buffalo in a day. Cody was triumphant that spring day in 1868 earning him the nickname “Buffalo Bill Cody.” The sculpture of him on a hunt is worth checking out. The information center at its base tells the story of Cody and his legacy.

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 that was 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.

I also appreciated the illustrated panel on the wall that featured the people and places that make this area of Kansas unique.

The center also serves as the town’s travel information center, so it’s best to stop there first before exploring Oakley. I discovered an extensive selection of travel brochures, maps, and a gift shop. The staff was eager to answer my questions and offered me a cup of 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, travelers with dogs appreciate the indoor and outdoor accommodations.

The Buffalo Bill Cultural Center often updates its exhibitions and hosts events like the annual Oakley Corn Festival. Check their Facebook page for the center’s hours and event details.

FICK FOSSIL & HISTORY MUSEUM

People drive from miles around and across state lines to visit the Fick Fossil & History Museum (3083 US Hwy 83) in Oakley. I was impressed with the quality and quantity of fossils on display. Vi Fick was an artist who created artwork with marine fossils, bones, shells, and sharks’ teeth. Her intricate, 3-D artwork decorates the museum’s walls.

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 Western Vistas Historic Byway, the area is a well-visited destination for geologists and paleontologists keen on discovering fossils. The museum houses a large collection of rocks and minerals as well.

Xiphactinus Audax is a pre-historic fish found locally by Sternberg.

Other rooms of the museum 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 days of the telegraph to the telephone.

The replica of a train depot represents Oakley’s 1886 Union Pacific Railroad depot which burned down in 1940.

Visitors are encouraged to walk inside the sod house replica.

In a separate room, I found a piece of art “Advertising Pencil and Pen Collection” by one-time Oakley resident Donald Hall. He collected free pencils and pens throughout his lifetime and created the artwork pictured in the photo below. As a writer, I appreciated how Hall used an everyday object to create a masterpiece.

Don’t leave the museum without climbing inside a 1958 Ford V8 F750 fire truck once used by the Oakley Fire Department. The truck was taken out of use with 8,216 miles on it. The museum has a lot to see and I’d recommend devoting at least an hour during your visit. You can tour the museum for free (donations accepted) six days a week, but check museum hours before making the drive.

MONUMENT ROCKS

I was ready to see the geological formations called Monument Rocks. I drove 20 miles south on US-83 and meandered a few desolate country roads. A large snake crawled across the road in front of my car. I drove over what looked like a black scorpion. (Note: Locals tell me it may have been a tarantula since the area is on the migration path.) It was unlike any part of Kansas I had ever seen. Some fields lacked fences. Cattle stood watch as I passed. The earth was rocky and the dirt was light in color. I was staring at the remnants of an ancient ocean that once covered the region.

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 Niobara Chalk that formed during the Cretaceous period on the Western Interior Seaway 80 million years ago. The lines you see 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.

Just beyond the largest formation (pictured above), I spotted another, smaller one. The sculptured monolith (pictured below) was striking in its beauty. In the past, the rocks were used by The Butterfield Overland Dispatch as landmarks to guide travelers in the area who traveled the Smoky Hill Trail.

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).

KEYSTONE GALLERY

I drove to Keystone Gallery (401 US Hwy 83) to meet with the owners, fossil hunters who were waiting for my arrival. Housed in a once abandoned church from 1916, Chuck and Barbara gave me a tour of the museum and gallery. Soon, I was immersed in stories told about fossil hunts. Once Barbara found her first fossil, she said she was hooked. Together, the couple has spent years excavating fossils. Many of their finds are on display in the museum while others are on exhibit in other galleries around the nation. The bulk of their collection includes swimming reptiles, sharks, birds, and other invertebrates.

The Keystone Gallery overlooks the Smoky Hill River valley with a view of Monument Rocks in a region referred to as 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.

The space also serves as a gallery of Chuck’s paintings and retail shop. Some visitors come to Keystone Gallery on a quest to learn more about the fossils found in Kansas. Others stop by simply to buy rock and mineral specimens as gifts.

Before I left Keystone Gallery, I had one question left for Chuck and Barbara. What was the story with the old car sitting near the entrance? I was told that Chuck once 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 that represent 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 here.

BUFFALO BILL’S BAR AND GRILL

It was hot and I was tired. I needed a break from traveling in 100+ degree temperatures. I decided to forego a trip to Little Jerusalem Badlands for another day. I headed into downtown Oakley for something to eat at Buffalo Bill’s Bar and Grill (207 Center Ave.). I struck up a conversation with a bartender (originally from Spain!) who told me the kitchen was closed until the dinner hour. Instead, I enjoyed a cold Corona and read the signs on the wall. One read, “Alcohol because no great story beings with eating a salad.” Perhaps I would return for a burger later.

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

I strolled across the street and made my way into a boutique shop, Everything’s-a-Bloomin’ (204 Center Ave, Main Street). It was 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. If you can’t find it there, it doesn’t exist. You’ll love this gem of a store in downtown Oakley.

DINNER

OAKLEY COUNTRY CLUB & GOLF COURSE

I heard that Oakley Country Club & Golf Course (815 W. South 2nd St.) served delicious steak, fried chicken wings, and they had a full bar. The place lived up to its reputation. I enjoyed a glass of wine during Happy Hour (4 pm-6 pm) and visited with the bartender about small-town life. A members-only 9-hole golf course, the clubhouse saw quite a bit of traffic that evening from locals playing Men’s Night Golf. I met the town’s judge, the bowling alley’s owner, and a few townies who needed a golf cart and a refilled cooler of beer.

I order a 14 oz. ribeye steak and salad for dinner. Perhaps more than I could eat, I needed a comforting, wholesome meal after days on the road. It was cooked to perfection. Joined by new friends, I enjoyed my dinner while getting to know them better. I was welcomed and felt right at home.

A visit to Oakley offers more than a few tourist stops. (I’ll definitely return to visit Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park and Annie Oakley Park for a game of disc golf.) It’s the kind of town you hate to leave because of the memories you’ve made there. The residents are genuine. If you visit the area for its attractions, stay overnight and get to know the people. You won’t regret it.

Making the Most of a Day in Pratt, Kansas

June 17, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 16 Comments

Disclosure: The City of Pratt sponsored this post, however, all opinions are my own. All of the photos were taken by me.

Kansas is dotted with charming small towns, but few are as fun to spend the day in as Pratt aka “The Gateway to the High Plains.” Upon arrival, the town rolls out the red carpet and welcomes you. Located a bit over an hour’s drive from Wichita, visitors will quickly discover that there are many must-see places to experience.

A large part of the appeal of visiting Pratt is getting to know its residents as you stroll in and out of local businesses. They treat you like they’ve known you for years! From unique boutiques and western wear shops to art museums and restaurants, there is more than enough fun to be had in a day. Let’s get started!

There is no better way to start your day than to stop into N’Cahoots Coffee & Shoppe (210 S. Main). As you walk into the café, you’re immediately greeted by the smell of delicious coffee and the sound of chatty visitors. The space is decorated with eclectic furniture, fancy chandeliers, and colorful artwork reminiscent of a big city coffee shop. Actually, much of the N’Cahoots will remind you of the coffee shop from the TV show, Friends.

After ordering my chai tea and a slice of Quiche Lorraine, I stepped into the back of the café into a Friends-themed lounge. While dining on my delicious breakfast, I scribbled my favorite cast member quote in chalk on the table and then read Friends trivia. Visiting N’Cahoots is an entertaining experience, unlike anything you’ll find in Kansas. It doesn’t stop there – it’s also a place to shop! Before you leave, be sure to check out the many retail items for sale ranging from antiques to body care products.

N'Cahoots Meal — I highly recommend ordering a hot chai tea to go along with the scratch-made quiche. That flakey crust is a must. Can you see the quote I wrote in chalk on the Friends-themed table? “We were on a break!”

After fueling up with caffeine and breakfast, it was time to step out onto Main Street and shop until my heart’s content. You get the sense of small-town pride as you walk up and down the sidewalk gazing into storefronts. Most stores that are open during the week open after 10 am.

If you’re on the hunt for whimsical home decor or a gift for someone, Simply Southwest (213 S. Main St.) carries it all and more. As soon as I walked inside the store, I spotted a half dozen items I wanted immediately, which is not typical for me since I’m a picky shopper. Let’s be honest, I wanted almost everything in the store. If you can’t find something you want to buy, you haven’t looked hard enough! I walked away with bbq-themed napkins, a hilarious greeting card, and designer socks.

Hello Beautiful Beauty Bar & Boutique (205 S. Main St.) is the perfect stop for shoppers looking to add a bit of glam to their style. A ladies’ boutique store, you’ll find rows of jewelry, clothing, shoes, and cosmetics. Step up to the beauty bar and ask about their extensive line of LipSense by SeneGence while learning about their upcoming events like Wine Walk Saturday. Shopping with a glass of wine in hand along Main Street? Yes, please! They also host a live style show every Tuesday at 9 pm on their Facebook group page for women who want to shop virtually and have items shipped to them.

I kept the shopping fun moving along to Joni’s Stitch by Stitch (108 S. Main St.) full of inventory to update your closet. Also, a place to have alterations done, the owner carries dresses and separates ideal for semi-formal and formal events. Next door, Memories Home Decor & Gifts (110 S. Main St.) has been in business since 1986 enticing shoppers with home decor, gifts for all ages, and women’s clothing. The owner also keeps essential oils, CBD hemp oil products, and Yankee products in stock.

Looking for a cute handbag, hat, or piece of jewelry? Memories has it all!

A short jaunt away from Main Street, I encourage you to visit The Flower Shoppe (201 E. 4th St.). Florist Lou Lynne Moss has been designing silk and fresh floral arrangements for happy customers for years. After you place your custom order, cruise through the shop to select from the beautiful decor. Every corner of the store has something that you’ll want to add to your shopping haul. It’s a delightful store! Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with puppy kisses from the story’s mascot, Louie, the pug.

But there still more shopping to do! Save your spending money for Lisa’s Western Wear (1641 E. 1st St.) located near the edge of town to stock up on leather boots and cowboy fashion. Need a special order? She’s got you covered. Cowboys and cowgirls from around the area and beyond shop here for rodeo gear. You won’t find many independently owned stores like this one in the state. Ladies, don’t walk past the jewelry shelves without trying on some new bling!

Lisa' Western Wear — Visiting with your family? Look toward the front of the store to find boots for toddlers. Adorable!

Plan your shopping route accordingly so you have time to drive to a hidden gem, Giesen Greenhouse (806. S. Pearl St.). A destination boutique greenhouse, they specialize in cactus, succulents, and houseplants. If you’re not careful, you’ll drive right past the greenhouse. Look for the towering space and plant-lined pathway beckoning you to the backyard of a home. I was amazed at the high-quality plants and rows of cacti that filled the greenhouse. Be sure to admire the homemade macrame by The Art Cove. The owners also have a Wichita connection and sell their plants at the store, Grow, located on Cleveland Corner.

No matter your style, Pratt has something for every kind of shopper. But when you’re craving something scrumptious to eat after a day of shopping, I highly recommend you stop into Legend’s Pub & Grill (109 Parke St.) When I told store employees that I was intending to eat lunch at Legends, every one of them praised the restaurant’s menu and gave multiple recommendations on what to order. Settling on the Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer and Bourbon Burger, I devoured my lunch. The residents were right. It’s the best place to eat lunch in town while watching sports or chatting with friends. I appreciated that every inch of the restaurant was decked out in memorabilia down to the sports-themed Tiffany lamps. Classic rock played in the background while I attempted to eat every last bite.

But the day isn’t over yet! I suggest you head back into the central business district to make your way to the Vernon Filley Art Museum (412 S. Jackson St.), the home of rotating guest exhibitions and art classes open to the public. Adult visitors pay $4, seniors and college students $3, and youth $2 to tour the museum. They offer a 10% discount for groups of 10 or more.

During my visit, I appreciated the work of two regional artists whose paintings were showcased in “Two Visions – One Prairie.” An avid art museum-goer, I was impressed with the sophistication of the museum and its knowledgable staff. You’ll love the retail gift store filled from top to bottom with artists’ creative pieces for sale.

Finally, a day in Pratt wouldn’t be complete without topping off the experience with a scratch-made cookie from Busy B’s Bakery (120 W. 4th St.), a newer business in town that sells custom-ordered cakes, pies, gluten-free delights, and bread. When I asked the owner what cookie I should order, she said the “lemon one made with Lemonheads candy has been popular.” As she pulled it from the case, I realized it was bigger than my hand. It was tasty.

There are so many reasons to visit Pratt. Did you know that the town attracts thousands of baseball players and their families to the Green Sports Complex for youth tournaments? (The concession stand is known for having popular, non-traditional concession stand food!) Traveling families also enjoy the town’s many parks, notably Lemon Park, a great place to picnic or walk along tree-lined paths.

The town is also known for hosting The Miss Kansas pageant on the campus of Pratt Community College. For outdoorsmen looking to learn more about their surroundings, I recommend driving to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism (512 SE 25th Ave.), museum and fish hatchery. Regretfully, I didn’t get to see it since I packed quite a bit into my day trip itinerary.

Without question, this impressive town needs to be on your Kansas travel bucket list. I had a fantastic time during my solo trek getting to know the friendly residents and taking in the sites. A short drive from Wichita, I’d recommend visiting Pratt as soon as you can. If you have questions about making the most of a day in Pratt, ask me in the comments below.

Visiting The Pioneer Woman Mercantile in Pawhuska, Oklahoma

September 23, 2018 by Vanessa 8 Comments

On a trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma my boyfriend mentioned,”Hey, do you want to stop at The Pioneer Woman’s Mercantile?” I answered, “YES!” Then, I wondered if he could read my thoughts. How did he know I already researched it and wanted to visit?

View from the stairs that lead to the bakery.

The Pioneer Woman Mercantile, located in Pawhuska, Oklahoma is more than just a general store or simple, country retail store. It’s an experience! Complete with a restaurant and an upstairs bakery, “The Merc” attracts visitors from all over. Having done my homework, I knew there could be a line leading from the front door and down the sidewalk but to my surprise there were less than six people in line when we arrived! Maybe it was because it was a Friday at 11:15am. Maybe it was because it was raining. Maybe it was just my lucky day. Either way, I would recommend visiting even if you see a line when you pass by the building.

An employee greeted each person waiting in line with a big smile and a welcoming “How are you guys doin’?” Within minutes we were ushered inside by our hostess and led into The Deli to an oversized, distressed wood table adorned with gingham cloth napkins and menus.

Speaking of the menu, you’ll love the food options ranging from sandwiches stacked tall with flavorful meats and veggies to hearty, big plate dinner entrees. The food is wonderful, the waitstaff is incredibly friendly, and the overall dining experience was amazing. It’s obvious that Ree Drummond has put considerable effort into every detail of your experience from the menu options to the red gingham employee shirts. Reminder: Make sure to plan enough time during your visit to enjoy a meal from the restaurant – and bring your appetite!

What did we eat for lunch? We shared two sandwiches: Ladd’s Favorite Chicken Sandwich and the Fried Chicken Sandwich. Each were delicious in their own right, but we decided that Ladd, Ree’s husband, was on to something when he added bacon, cheddar, and honey mustard to a grilled chicken sandwich. YUM! View the menu here. We splurged and added a side of baked macaroni-and-cheese, which may have been more than enough food. I didn’t care. I finished off the cheesy pasta in no time. (No surprise there!)

Don’t forget to ask for thick, zesty ranch dressing to dip your fries (or peppered potato chips) into!

After finishing our meal, we walked over to The Merc and I was immediately overwhelmed with delightful feeling that only comes from “retail therapy.” In fact, another female shopper heard me say, “I’m not responsible for the amount of shopping I may or may not do in this store,” and then we shared a giggle. Then, my boyfriend rolled his eyes and laughed (nervously?) as I located a shopping basket.

The retail store includes everything you can imagine from whimsical, classic toys to leather handbags to colorful kitchenware. You’ll be hard-pressed to leave The Merc without at least buying a t-shirt or decorative plate – I did!

Don’t forget to head upstairs to check out The Bakery. I recognized the space from an episode of The Pioneer Woman on the Food Network. Less crowded than the downstairs areas, you’ll appreciate taking the time to savor a homemade cookie or a few pieces of retro candy.

You can make a day of your visit to Pawhuska. Many people make it a weekend and stay at one of the town’s bed and breakfasts and then shopping downtown. Next time, We’ll be sure to make time to visit P-Town Pizza, another Drummond family restaurant.

Not wanting to give away too many details, I would just say this about our time at The Merc – we had so much fun! We’ll definitely return to The Merc (and any other businesses she decides to open) in the charming little town. I know you would enjoy the visit as well.

Have you traveled to Oklahoma? Are you a fan of The Pioneer Woman? Feel free to ask me travel questions in the comment section below. I’d love to hear from you!

Catch more of my travels and recipe posts on Instagram and Twitter. Have a delightful day!