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Updated November 2025
Coffee drinkers will drive miles for a delicious latté or espresso. Luckily, the Kansas map is dotted with one-of-a-kind coffee shops catering to caffeine junkies. Each is unique, from selling bags of beans roasted on-site to peddling books and pastries.
Scroll down to find a Kansas coffee shop worth visiting. Once you arrive, what will you order?
EMPTY CUP COFFEE BAR & BISTRO – MARYSVILLE
If you’re searching for a place to savor a hearty homemade breakfast with a cup of coffee, eMpTy Cup Coffee Bar & Bistro (723 Broadway) is an excellent place to land. The locals fill the morning dining room, chatting about the town’s news between breakfast bites and trips to refill cups at the self-serve coffee station.
I enjoyed listening to the chatter and the kitchen grill sizzling while perched on a barstool at the window counter. A friendly employee delivered a large plate of smothered biscuits, eggs, and cheese, a delicious meal that could easily feed two people.
CAFE LATTÉ AT THE JACKSON – PAOLA
Located in a beautifully restored historic building, Cafe Latté at the Jackson (139 W. Peoria Street) is a go-to gathering space known for its breakfast quiche, daily specials, and selection of delicious desserts and teas.
I listened to classic rock music play over a speaker as regular customers approached the counter. Between bites of ham and cheese quiche (homemade crust!) and sips of my vanilla honey Hearthwarmer Latté, I heard an employee tell a customer that someone had already paid for his meal.
Cafe Latté is a delightful place to enjoy a morning meal and coffee drink at a sunlight table.
SCRATCH – SPRING HILL
Scratch Spring Hill (112 S. Main Street), previously known as The Bean Coffee & Cafe, is a major draw the quaint downtown corridor. Saturday cyclists and families filled the coffee shop during my visit seeking fresh baked pastries and espresso coffee drinks.
I watched a little girl jump up and down with delight after her parents approved the purchase of a homemade Pop-Tart with purple frosting. I was equally as excited to dig into a warmed cinnamon roll between sips of my artisan coffee.
They also sell grab-and-go salads, wrap sandwiches, and cold-pressed juices from a reach-in refrigerator.
TRUNORTH CAFE – SCOTT CITY
Start the day at TruNorth Cafe (1313 Main Street) for an early-morning caffeine boost. I love it when a rural community’s coffee shop is open on a Monday, and TruNorth is a locals’ gathering place.
A group of locals chatted about the weekends happenings as conversation turned to coin collecting as I savored a breakfast burrito and hot coffee.
The café’s menu features espresso drinks, smoothies, frappes, and teas. Ask about the selection of freshly baked bierocks, ham and cheese pockets, and fruit scones.
PATRICK DUGAN’S – GARDEN CITY
When craving a wake-me-up cup of coffee or a mid-day Italian soda, visit Main Street mainstay Patrick Dugan’s (301 N. Main Street).
Since 2008, it’s served as a community gathering place for small groups chatting up about the day’s happenings and remote workers who make use of the Wi-Fi to get projects done.
If you’re visiting during morning hours, refer to the breakfast sandwich menu and don’t miss the seasonal specialty drinks offerings.
AMANDA’S BAKERY & BISTRO – ABILENE
I prefer to spend early mornings on the road at a locally-owned coffee shop. The coffee is always served hot, and the bakery case is filled with tempting goodies.
Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro (302 N. Broadway) is a place I’ve enjoyed repeatedly. I like to start the day there by stopping in for only a cup of drip coffee or ordering breakfast. It’s where the locals gather, and anywhere the locals meet up is where I want to dine.
AD ASTRA BOOKS & COFFEE HOUSE – SALINA
Part cafe, and partly used bookstore, Ad Astra Books & Coffee House resembles a library with tables and chairs for lounging. The relaxed atmosphere is where locals meet up for specialty coffee or tea to chat about local happenings. Exposed limestone and brick walls anchor bookshelves stocked with titles in every genre.
Also a place for families, the youngest visitors will appreciate the children’s book section and inviting gumball machine. I recommend asking about the specialty coffee of the month. Proceeds from my purchase of a Bee Kind Latté went to a local non-profit. You’ll find it difficult to leave without buying a book, t-shirt, or Kansas-themed gift.
CLIVE’S STAPLES COFFEE SHOP & BAKERY – STERLING
After several blog readers suggested I try Clive’s Staples Coffee Shop & Bakery (135 S. Broadway), I can confirm it’s worth the visit. I prefer their chai tea latté.
Residents sip coffee behind laptops from outdoor café tables facing Main Street while college students use the free WiFi indoors. The coffee shop’s interior, including its bathrooms, is inspired by the British author and theologian C. S. Lewis.
GOURMET EATS – SALINA
When you’re in the mood for a breakfast or lunch made to order with fresh ingredients, I recommend dining at Gourmet Eats (115 N. Ohio St.). I ordered a local favorite, Breakfast Panini, on buttery toasted sourdough with turkey, bacon, egg, cheese, and fresh fruit. Served with zesty sour cream, I devoured every crumb. To say it was delicious is an understatement.
The breakfast menu includes eight selections ranging from sandwiches to biscuits and gravy. Dining for lunch? Expect a long list of sandwiches, wraps, and South of the Border entrees.
GRAVEL CITY ROASTERS – EMPORIA
The highly-rated coffee house, Gravel City Roasters serves a long list of coffee and tea drinks. Never without a short line from the register, customers can also select breakfast muffins, cupcakes, and other pastries. All of the baked goodies are made from scratch.
Popular with residents including college students, it also serves as a retail space selling whimsical gifts. Shoppers in search of puzzles and uniquely crafted artwork are in luck.
FLIGHT CREW COFFEE – MANHATTAN
Wheels up! Flight Crew Coffee, in historic Manhattan, is ready to serve you. Opened this fall, the cafe is bustling with business. And for good reason. The owner, Heather, has considered every detail to ensure your “in-flight service” is seamless.
A bit of nostalgia and a bit of class. the cafe’s interior transports you to aviation heaven. Navy blue walls, black and white prints of airplanes, and a cozy fireplace invite you to nestle up with a coffee in hand. Jazz music plays in the background.
I enjoyed a steaming chai tea with a Quiche Lorraine for breakfast. As they say, “Our Coffee Gives You Wings,” and after my first visit to Flight Crew Coffee, my mood is flying high. Add it to your morning itinerary before stepping out to do boutique shopping. View the cafe’s hours here.
UPLIFT COFFEE – LAWRENCE
In anticipation of Lawrence Restaurant Week, I stopped into Uplift Coffee (624 N. 2nd St.) on a snowy winter day. I don’t know what was better, the warm greeting or the coffee, but my experience was a pleasant one.
I recommend asking about the monthly featured drink, which during my visit was a mocha latté prepared with house-made syrup. The Bacon Burrito served with salsa satisfied my morning hunger.
1900 BARKER BAKERY AND CAFE – LAWRENCE
While there are many places on Massachusetts Street to grab a coffee, 1900 Barker Bakery and Cafe (816 Massachusetts St.) is a worthwhile stop for its scratch-made pastries and coffee drinks.
The coffee menu features the usual suspects ranging from a house espresso to a latte, but it also features four speciality drinks. Their fidelity to the menu means that you can’t order a drink that’s not on it. But it’s no matter. The ambiance combined with coffee and baked goods make it a worthwhile experience.
JITTERS COFFEE HOUSE – CONCORDIA
On my way to Nebraska, I pulled over at Jitters Coffee House (221 W. 6th Street) for a latté and one of their famous scones. The coffee house smelled of fresh baked goods.
A group of women congregated at the rear of the café chatting about the day’s happenings while the barista steamed milk for my latté. I chose an apple cinnamon scone, which was one of five flavors available in the pastry case.
Using the free high-speed WiFi, I caught up on a works tasks before embarking on my road trip. Jitters Coffee House gets my vote as a Kansas coffee shop worth pulling over for.
TEN & TWO COFFEE – BONNER SPRINGS
I was curious about a coffee shop I heard was on the same property as a members-only automotive club, The Fuel House. Sure enough, as I drove into the gravel parking lot, I spied the sign for Ten & Two Coffee (611 W. 2nd Street). One of three locations, the Bonner Springs cafe, was inside a 100-year-old converted warehouse. The entire space was massive. The coffee bar lived up to my expectations.
Not only does Ten & Two prepare specialty drinks and drip coffee, but they also serve breakfast sandwiches and pastries. A steady flow of customers consisting of locals and out-of-towners came in the door while I enjoyed a homemade cinnamon roll and a cup of signature coffee from a comfortable couch. I spied beer on draft and a menu of specialty cocktails behind the coffee bar. Sure enough, Ten & Two transforms into a taproom after dark.
BURR ROASTERS & CAFÉ – LEAVENWORTH
Burr Roasters & Café (515 Delaware St.) The smell of freshly roasted coffee beans is the norm at the Leavenworth coffee shop because the space doubles as a roastery. The Astoria barista machine is in constant use as locals approach the counter with drink orders.
I recommend ordering a self-serve drip coffee (medium or dark roast available) and a breakfast sandwich to start the day. Seating is available indoors and outside, and the backroom aka The Burr-ow is a quieter place to read a book or play a board game.
PARADOX COFFEE & BISTRO – JUNCTION CITY
The smell of freshly brewed java greets you as you walk up to the counter to order. Paradox Coffee & Bistro (419 Washington St.) serves Wichita-based Reverie Coffee Roasters and a long list of early morning menu delights.
If you’re seeking a healthy breakfast option, choose the avocado toast with egg and bacon requiring a knife and fork, or Seasonal Berry and Yogurt Parfait. Freshly baked scones tempt from the counter.
MCLAIN’S MARKET – SHAWNEE
McLain’s Market is a bakery and coffee shop known as the go-to spot for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant is located near Downtown Shawnee and serves a steady flow of townies and visitors.
The menu features pastries, breakfast burritos, burrito bowls, salmon toast, and snacks prepared fresh from an exposed kitchen space. With my order placed, I nestled into a comfy spot indoors with a view of the patio.
URBAN PRAIRIE ROASTERS – MISSION
Sunshine and coffee? Count me in. I love a local coffeeshop hangout, and Urban Prairie Coffee (5606 Johnson Drive) is where the locals go for their daily caffeinated drinks and morning pastries. Also known for their breakfast burritos, it’s a hopping place before 9:00 a.m., and patio seating is usually claimed.
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.
PACE E BENE – ATCHISON
Primarily a Catholic bookstore, Pace E Bene (503 Commercial St.) also includes a quaint café at the rear of the store with ample lounge seating to savor an early morning pastry (order a cheddar biscuit!) with a specialty coffee or hot tea drink. The faith-based coffee shop also prepared homemade sandwiches at lunchtime.
Don’t leave without at least sampling one of eight flavors of imported gelato.
THE SUNFLOWER – ATCHISON
A perfect day of exploring Atchison starts at The Sunflower, where the baked goods and coffee drinks are the highlight, and the welcoming customer service is a bonus. The bagel breakfast sandwich with a KC Roasterie drip coffee hit the spot as I took in my surroundings.
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.
COLLEGE HILL COFFEE – WINFIELD
I made the short drive to College Hill Coffee , in desperate need of caffeine with a side of breakfast.
The coffee shop is located in a residential neighborhood and draws locals for its relaxed vibe. People sit on patio tables on the front porch or at tables inside what is a converted old house. It feels homey and comforting, like someone invited you over for breakfast. From the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.
I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work, and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) was for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers, and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.
NORM’S COFFEE BAR – NEWTON
Having heard that Norm’s Coffee Bar was known for its menu of delicious waffle dishes, I knew I was in for a treat. It turns out breakfast dreams do come true. I chose “The One With the White Sauce” from a shortlist of options. The waffle arrived pillowy soft and warm, drizzled with vanilla custard and raspberry sauce. One bite, and I was in heaven. A large portion, I cleared my plate.
While I love to indulge in sweet waffles, I think I’ll try a savory waffle during my return visit like one made with cornbread topped with chili and cheese, aka “Ring of Fire.” The waffle options are everchanging, but you’re guaranteed to find sweet and savory options with creative toppings.
But I needed a sidekick to go with my breakfast waffles. I ordered a Dirty Chai Tea Latté. It arrived at my table in a mug so large that I had to use two hands to sip my tea. Delicious. Norm’s serves espresso, brewed coffees and blended drinks of all kinds.
BLACKSMITH’S COFFEE SHOP & ROASTERY – LINDSBORG
Considering arriving in Lindsborg in the morning? Grab something tasty to eat and drink at Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop & Roastery. You’ll appreciate their freshly roasted coffee while seated inside the authentic, renovated blacksmith shop. I tried the popular breakfast casserole, biscuits, and gravy during my visit. I recommend asking for a side of lingonberry applesauce or ordering a Lingonberry Smoothie.
The historic building is the oldest standing building in Lindsborg, dating back to 1874. Opened as a roastery and coffee shop in 2017, it continues to serve visitors a scratch-made breakfast menu and seed-to-cup coffee.
WHITE PEACOCK COFFEE SHOP – LINDSBORG
Cozy, quiet, and art-driven, White Peacock Coffee Shop (124 S. Main Street) puts a priority on fostering a welcoming environment for visitors seeking a delicious cup of coffee or tea. During each of my visits, I’ve discovered something, whether its a speciality drink recipe or an artist’s pottery for sale.
If you go, I recommend order the fresh-squeezed lemonade with lingonberries (summer menu) and be sure to order the Swedish pancakes (served all day) prepared with, you guessed it, lingonberries.
N’CAHOOTS COFFEE & SHOPPE – PRATT
There is no better way to start your day than to stop into N’Cahoots Coffee & Shoppe. 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. Much of the N’Cahoots will remind you of the coffee shop from the TV show Friends.
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, take a look at the various retail items for sale, ranging from antiques to body care products.
SIGNET COFFEE – PITTSBURG
“Friends Don’t Let Friends Drink Bad Coffee” is the motto of Signet Coffee Roasters‘ owners, Dennis and Leah. The interesting part of their story, which I still can’t get over, is that they were not “coffee lovers” for much of their adult life. They admit that they didn’t know a good cup of coffee until they had one in Minnesota. It didn’t take long before they were hooked on quality coffee from roasted coffee beans.
The homemade Caramel Latte and Cranberry Orange scone were some of the best I’ve ever tasted. And don’t get me started, don’t the coffee. I regret not ordering a larger size.
THE BALKAN – PITTSBURG
What do you get when you combine comfy lounge spaces and delicious coffee drinks? The Balkan (420 N. Broadway) has perfected the art of serving coffee drinks, Italian sodas, tea, crepes, and pastries. The locally owned gathering spot transforms into a cocktail lounge after 5 pm Thursday through Saturday. The espresso martini and matcha-tini are popular cocktails.
C4 COFFEEHOUSE & COUNTRY STORE – GIRARD
Located in the heart of Girard, C4 Coffeehouse & Country Store (102 S. Ozark Street) is more than another place to sip coffee. It’s also a retail store carrying local makers’ gift-worthy products, ranging from drink tumblers to clothing and earrings.
The coffeehouse menu features hot and cold caffeinated drinks, and baristas are happy to add your choice of flavored syrup to any beverage. I ordered an iced latté to take with me while walking the nearby courthouse square.
MCKAY STREET COFFEEHOUSE – FRONTENAC
The smell of locally roasted coffee permeates McKay Street Coffeehouse (200 E. McKay), where locals fuel up on their favorite caffeinated beverages. Located adjacent to the Frontenac Library, book lovers can kick back with a new read or grab a book to take with them from the coffeehouse’s free book selection.
They also feature a Drink of the Month, farm-to-table salads daily, and homemade pie one day a week. Visit the Free Little Library to select a complimentary book. Don’t miss the game wall, stocked with board and card games to play over coffee and conversation.
FIRE ESCAPE COFFEE HOUSE – CHANUTE
Every town needs a hub where the community gathers to discuss daily happenings, and FireEscape Coffee House (126 W. Main Street) is that place.
Operating as a non-profit, faith-based youth ministry, the café serves espresso coffee drinks prepared with small-batch, house-roasted beans until 11 a.m. Tuesday through Friday.
My hot Lavender Fog tea drink prepared with lavender flavoring tasted spot on as I chatted with locals about the historic building turned coffee house.
JAVA JUNCTION – CHANUTE
During an early-morning at locally owned Java Junction (425 W. Main Street), multiple employees are handcrafting espresso drinks, smoothies, and breakfast sandwiches for guests arriving via the drive-thru window and inside.
It was easy to see why the coffee shop remains steadily busy after sipping my toffee nut coffee with a breakfast croissant sandwich.
The quality of the beans, which are sourced from Pittsburg’s Signet Coffee Roasters, made for one of the best-tasting coffees I’ve enjoyed on the road in a long time. The owner also sources gourmet coffee syrups from Kyya Chocolate in Arkansas.
SPLITLOG COFFEE CO. – KANSAS CITY, KANSAS
The first stop on any traveler’s itinerary in Kansas City, Kansas should be Splitlog Coffee Company (548 Central Ave), a quaint coffee shop in the city’s Strawberry Hill neighborhood.
Order an in-house roasted cup of coffee and a homemade pastry before finding a patio table on the upper deck complete with a skyline view of the city. It’s too busy inside to find an available table, consider using the coffee shop’s drive-thru window.
COMMON GROUND COFFEE CO. – FORT SCOTT
Bustling with activity, Common Ground Coffee Co. (12 E. Wall St.) is the place to gather at a large table with friends or sit solo to catch up on work. During my visit, community college students intently studied behind laptops while sipping from coffee cups.
You’re guaranteed to be greeted by a friendly face behind the counter. Not always sure what I wanted to order, the employee was patient while I asked about the breakfast menu options ranging from muffins to fresh-made sandwiches.
OCTAGON CITY COFFEE CO. – HUMBOLDT
At my first stop in Humboldt, Octagon City Coffee Co., I ordered a steaming hot matcha latté. While waiting, I listened to indie rock classics and read a copy of The Iola Register newspaper. As locals came and went, I heard a woman tell the barista, “You’re awesome,” when she predicted her order before she could say it.
The café is surprisingly modern, like a coffee shop you’d expect to see in a big city, but its small-town charm makes it a sure win. Stop by to refuel on caffeine or to shop its retail shelves stocked with KC-made Messenger Coffee bags or cold brew bottles.
CRAFT COFFEE PARLOR – MCPHERSON
The best way to start your day in McPherson is to sip on a freshly brewed cup of coffee and enjoy a cinnamon roll at Craft Coffee Parlor (120 N. Main), a space that reminds you of a big city café. The interior of the coffee shop is designed with a modern, industrial aesthetic. They considered every detail in its design, from the restored wood floors to the artistic details of the latté art. I appreciated the paintings on display while enjoying my coffee in the good company of strangers who studied nearby or were chatting with friends.
I recommend asking the friendly employees about their high-end coffee selection and kombucha on tap. Visiting on a good weather day? Take your coffee outdoors to enjoy the view of Main Street on the front patio under string lights.
GOOD GROUNDS COFFEE SHOP & BISTRO – GOODLAND
There is plenty of restaurant options when looking for a place to dine in Goodland. For breakfast, I’d recommend driving to the edge of town to Good Grounds Coffee Shop & Bistro. The drive-thru and lobby stay busy, proving that it is one of the best places in town to enjoy a specialty coffee with breakfast.
The Vanilla Latte and Egg and Cheese Biscuit gave me the fuel I needed for a full day of exploring Goodland. If you’re searching for a substantial breakfast, check out the Daily Specials, which often include full-plate meals. The Bistro Originals chalkboard features hearty sandwiches and wraps if you want to stop there for lunch. I suggest viewing the unique artwork for sale on the gallery wall while you wait for your meal to be prepared. Free Wi-Fi is available.
BREATHE COFFEE HOUSE – HAYS
I found Breathe Coffee House the perfect way to start my morning in downtown Hays. They serve “oddly correct coffee,” crepes, smoothies, and scones. The cafe’s mission is to serve as a place for people to connect, feel cared for by others, and to welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds.
As I sipped on my latté made from Kansas City roaster, Oddly Correct, I noticed that an entire wall was covered in shelves housing mugs. To join the Coffee Club, the cafe devotees pay $25 as a donation to fund outreach projects. The cafe is a non-profit that supports Dialogue Ministries.
Warm and welcoming, the cafe is a cozy place to enjoy coffee.
JUDEE’S COFFEE – TOPEKA
Judee’s Coffee is a coffee shop highly recommended for serving the kind of coffee connoisseurs rave about.
udee’s Coffee is adjacent to God’s Storehouse, a massive store housing gently used household goods and apparel. Just my luck. I could enjoy breakfast and shop for antique glass and vintage jewelry afterward.
The barista crafted the perfect chai latté for me. The cafe smelled of freshly baked peanut butter cookies while I sipped my drink and watched shoppers peruse the shelves. Quiche, homemade tarts, and cookies sat in the pastry case, waiting for someone to enjoy.
A brown sugar latte on the seasonal board was only $2. It was a real value because they serve Oddly Correct coffee from Kansas City. Later, I chatted with the employees and learned that the cafe’s menu prices are set low to make good coffee accessible to everyone. They refer to it as “generosity at its best.”
THE FEATHERED NEST – BELLEVILLE
Upon arriving in Belleville, Kansas, my first stop was The Feathered Nest, a store that a friend of mine raved about as soon as she heard I was traveling to the area. It’s not a store many discover by happenchance, but one that lives up to its reputation.
A massive home interiors/decor shop with a coffee lounge is a must-visit store. As soon as I walked in, I knew my wallet was in trouble. I wanted to bring the fancy pillows, framed prints, and towering candle holders home. They also sell jars of Kansas-made gourmet foods and chef’s tools to complete one’s kitchen.
The store manager, Lynette, sat down with me to chat about the store in the coffee lounge. I sipped a specialty coffee, The Feathered Frenzy, and enjoyed a scratch-made scone from the espresso bar. As we talked, I noticed several locals sitting together in small groups, talking over coffee. Immediately, I could feel a real sense of community.
NO. 7 COFFEE HOUSE – WELLINGTON
No. 7 Coffee House in Wellington is your first stop when in town. A women-owned and operated business open Tuesday-Saturday, the coffee shop is known for its phenomenal baked goods and crafted coffee drinks.
With coffee beans sourced from Topeka’s PT Coffee, the baristas stay busy preparing traditional and specialty coffee drinks, and seasonal drink options like Bees Knees Chai keep it fun. Non-coffee drinkers will gravitate to their hot or iced tea menu.
No. 7 Coffee House is a morning hangout where locals greet one another as they walk in and discuss the day’s events. They sip coffee with dining on maple pecan scones, muffins, and sausage quiche.
HATTIE JOE’S COFFEE HOUSE – ELLSWORTH
It’s a good sign when several people tell you about the biscuits and gravy at Hattie Joe’s Coffee House (113 W. North Main St.), where a train conductor often stops the locomotive to pick up a to-go coffee.
We followed their lead, ordering a half-order of biscuits and gravy and a sausage breakfast burrito to pair with vanilla-flavored coffee drinks. The food is no-joke delicious. The creamy, slightly spicy sausage gravy was some of the best I’ve tasted. And the burrito? Repeat-worthy.
BREWCO COFFEEHOUSE & DELI – El DORADO
Another popular breakfast and lunch restaurant is BrewCo Coffehouse & Deli (139 N Main Street), where locals gather in booths along brick exposed walls sipping coffee in between bites of breakfast burritos and Yoder cinnamon rolls.
I was warmly greeted by a college-aged employee as Ed Sheeran played over the speaker in the background. I chose a house roast coffee and the Breakfast Croissant sandwich prepared with scambled eggs, diced onion, and bell pepper. The spread, a pepper fruit jam, added sweetness.
PENNANT COFFEE – WICHITA
Pennant Coffee (930 W. Douglas Ave.) is located in the historic Delano District, a neighborhood that once served as a stop on the Chisholm Trail. Open daily, the coffee shop turns out barista creations you’d find at most cafés, as well as unique latté flavors and Italian sodas.
If you’re hungry, order a slice of breakfast pizza, open-faced sourdough egg sandwich, or select a pastry from the bakery case.
GREATER GROUNDS COFFEE & CO – WICHITA
It’s a vibe at Greater Grounds Coffee & Co. (922 E. Douglas Avenue), where the city’s remote workers and java loving millennials meet up for coffee. Dark green wallpaper and mid-century modern finishes complete the look at the coffee bar, which serves cocktails and hosts live music in the evenings.
I ordered from the specialty coffee and tea menu featuring a new-to-me chai latté recipe prepared with cookie butter. Expect the unexpected at Greater Ground Coffee & Co, a delightful downtown meeting place for the community.
GREAT BEND COFFEE – GREAT BEND
A downtown mainstay, Great Bend Coffee (2015 Lakin Avenue), opens early for breakfast and serves lunch pizza and sandwiches during lunch hour.
My bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast pizza served on crispy thin crust was some of the best I’ve eaten, and I happily requested a to-go container for leftovers. It tastes better than Casey’s breakfast pizza.
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.
Bonus! If you like to seek out off-the-beaten-path coffee shops, check out my second blog post Tucked-Away Coffee Shops in Kansas Worth Discovering.
I don’t hit the road without coffee in hand, so when I’m packing a cup, I use the Yeti Rambler 24oz Mug to keep it hot for the journey.
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.
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.
In the dining room, I sat at the head of the table where the Seelye’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.
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.
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.
While downtown, I encourage you to visit 
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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 
Even though I don’t exercise much (she inspires me to get moving!), Jennifer and I share quite a bit. We’re native Wichitans, and our pride for the city runs deep. We both appreciate making the most of each day and seeking adventure in everyday life. It’s that inner spirit that drives us to make life more delightful.
Did we inspire you to explore the city? Wichita is nestled between two rivers and linked by several bike trails. Building your own adventure and finding your favorite fuel around town is easy and fun.
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.
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.
The town is also known for hosting 
You’ll love the food options, from sandwiches stacked tall with flavorful meats and veggies to hearty, big-plate dinner entrees. The food is lovely, the waitstaff is incredibly friendly, and the dining experience was terrific. Ree Drummond has put considerable effort into every detail of your experience, from the menu options to the red gingham employee shirts.
After finishing our meal, we walked over to The Merc, and I was immediately overwhelmed with a delightful feeling that only comes from retail therapy. 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 giggled. My boyfriend rolled his eyes and laughed nervously as I located a shopping basket.
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, stay at one of the town’s bed and breakfasts, and then shop downtown. Next time, we’ll visit 
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.
