Disclosure: The Marion Merchants Association sponsored my trip. All opinions and photographs are my own. Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com.
Two lakes. A charming downtown district. And a historic hotel with a stunning interior. There is so much to love in Marion, Kansas, the home of visit-worthy stops and scenic escapes just beyond town.
Marion, located less than a one-hour drive northeast of Wichita, is a delightful overnight getaway or day trip destination.
Go for the small-town charm. Stay overnight to be spoiled at the Historic Elgin Hotel. And if you prefer to sleep under the stars, the town includes two lakes with primitive and RV campsites.
Things To Do in Marion, Kansas: A Charming Escape in the Flint Hills
LUXURIOUS LODGING
Historic Elgin Hotel
It was my pleasure to stay at the highly-rated Historic Elgin Hotel (115 N. 3rd St.), a luxurious boutique hotel that fellow travelers recommended.
Completed in 1886, the hotel was the largest hotel in the county at the time. Since then, it’s undergone rounds of renovations, and its current owners are maintaining its opulence.
Like me, I’m sure your mouth will drop in awe of the stunning interior architecture, with dark wood accents and twinkling crystal chandeliers. Jazz music plays as the sun’s rays shine through original windows.
Ideal for hosting couples’ romantic vacations, group gatherings, or girls’ getaways, the Historic Elgin Hotel includes 12 suites with private bathrooms featuring heated floors, spa amenities, and high-end toiletries.
The destination hotel is a sought-after spot for wedding receptions thanks to its remarkable design and attentive customer service.
The first floor includes a reservable meeting space, often used for formal gatherings.
The lobby’s sitting area is a relaxing place to review tourism brochures, which are readily available because the hotel doubles as the town’s official tourism information stop.
The second level, accessible via a grand staircase or an elevator, features additional lounge areas, including an outdoor veranda. A comfy velvet couch and oversized chairs invite conversation with friends.
My curiosity got the best of me, and I peeked into a few of the unoccupied suites, like Harvey House (four-poster King bed) and Eisenhower Suite (tufted Queen bed), which absolutely wowed.
Reserve Suite 312 – Elgin Memoir on Level 3. The quiet 727-square-foot master suite, featuring a king-size bed, a coffered ceiling, and cherry-wood built-in bookcases, envelops you in finery.
The room sleeps 7-8 guests, including a second, smaller bedroom with full-size bunk beds.
An in-room mini refrigerator, streaming television, and Bluetooth docking station feel like home.
A separate full kitchen, complete with a Keurig coffee station, was feet from the suite’s door. If you prefer hot tea, they stock over a dozen loose-leaf varieties.
A walk-in shower with five sprayers and a deep clawfoot bathtub exceeded our expectations, leaving us feeling completely spoiled.
Optional add-ons like our cheese and chocolate tray with snack basket and iced-down cider made our in-room stay extra delightful. We toasted to making new travel memories before savoring truffles from Sweet Granada, a Kansas chocolatier.
When not enjoying our room, we hung out with friends in the hotel’s Game Lounge prior to arriving for our dinner reservation at the on-site restaurant, Parlour 1886.
PRO TIP: Review the Special Occasions Specials before reserving your suite at the Historic Elgin Hotel.
HOTEL PACKING LIST: 5 Items I Always Put In My Bag
DECADENT DINING, COFFEE & ICE CREAM
Parlour 1886
Parlour 1886′s design mimics the hotel’s stunning interiors with stained glass windows and dark color tones. The decor of a full-service American restaurant with a full bar looks timeless.
The dining room, seating about 50 people, was bustling by 5:30 p.m. on a Friday evening. We ordered Happy Hour cocktails and appetizers: plates of roasted Brussels sprouts and fried ravioli.
The 1886 Old Fashioned, prepared with Boot Hill Distillery bourbon whiskey, was delicious, but surprisingly, it arrived several minutes after the appetizers.
Our table’s dinner selections, which took extra time to arrive at the time, included salmon, pasta entrees, and soup and salad. Overall, the table agreed that each entree tasted delicious, and a few of us left nothing on the plates.
Parlour 1886 also offers a brunch menu. We returned the following day to enjoy classic early-morning favorites, Steak and Eggs, and a Parlor Breakfast. The freshly prepared meal was scrumptious.
PRO TIP: Make a reservation prior to arriving. Dining on a Friday or Saturday evening? Place your dinner order when you order drinks if the dining room is at capacity.
Wagon Wheel Express
The Wagon Wheel Express (202 W. Main St.) has been locals’ go-to for a sizzling-hot hamburger and hand-cut fries since 2011.
Situated inside a tiny building on the edge of downtown, the casual eatery is family-owned and operated, serving regular customers who often wait for the door to unlock.
The restaurant’s humorous signage and Americana decor added a Grandma’s house quality. The day’s special, a Bacon Swiss Burger with fries, and my order, a Philly sandwich, were so tasty we ate every bite.
My only regret is that I didn’t plan ahead for a slice of pie when ordering lunch.
PRO TIP: Hand-squeezed lemonade served in summertime is a popular choice.
Bill & Essie’s BBQ
As we entered Bill & Essie’s BBQ (301 E. Main St.), a woman’s voice warmly welcomed us. The smell of barbecue-smoked meat permeated the air.
We decided to split a Three-Meat Dinner for lunch, which is more than enough food when served with two side dishes.
The chef was out of sliced brisket and burnt ends, but all was right in the world when a large platter of pulled pork, chopped brisket, and thick ribs arrived. The baked beans with meaty morsels were my preferred side dish.
The owner, who gained experience working at various barbecue restaurants, including Plowboys and Q-39, prepares bottle-worthy sauces.
We sampled four sauces, ranging from a white Alabama-style to a spicy traditional sauce. Overall, they were all tasty, and we each claimed a favorite, adding it to our plates.
PRO TIP: Check restaurant hours before arriving. Bill & Essie’s BBQ is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Expect a global twist on barbecue classics for Friday Fusion menu specials.
The Sit Down
I can’t resist a home-turned-coffee-shop, and sipping a latte with a pastry at The Sit Down (301 E. Santa Fe St.) feels like a warm hug.
The owner moved from Vermont to Marion, deciding to open a cafe where people could sit down and unwind with a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.
The home/coffee shop is decorated with thoughtfully curated antiques. Separate rooms offer quiet spaces for reading or working from a laptop.
I ordered a tiramisù latte and indulged in a couple of scoops of White Chocolate Raspberry ice cream. Music played in the background as I relaxed into a booth seat.
The Sit Down serves hot and cold espresso drinks, house-made soup, sandwiches, and grab-and-go pastries. Everyone will leave happy.
BONUS DINING STOP: We ran out of time, or we would have also dined at Taco’s Food Truck at That One Place, but we’ll be back.
HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS
Marion Historical Museum
A visit to the Marion Historical Museum (501 E Main St.) is the best way to truly get to know the town’s history and sense of community.
Open May through October or by appointment, the building itself is worth visiting for its stunning architecture and colorful stained glass windows. The museum is set inside the former Baptist Tabernacle Church, built in the 1880s.
The director gave us a quick overview of the museum’s exhibits before we embarked on a self-guided, free tour.
Its main space is divided into exhibits focused on local history, ranging from early settlers to contributions by prominent citizens.
We particularly enjoyed the room dedicated to Marion schools over the years, featuring yearbooks, band uniforms, and nostalgic photographs.
PRO TIP: Ask about the time capsule buried in the museum’s front lawn.
Historic Santa Fe Depot / Marion City Library
If you love reading and history, you must visit the Marion City Library (101 Library St.). Located inside a meticulously restored 1912 Santa Fe Depot, the library is open to the public and often hosts events.
On the day of our visit, a back room housed a quilt show featuring the handiwork of area residents.
Although the library is smaller, there is so much to see and do. An area of the library definitely worth exploring is the Kansas Room for its extensive book collection and Sunflower State artwork.
The crown jewel of the library is the children’s department. A vibrant mural depicting children’s book characters serves as the backdrop for storytime sessions.
PRO TIP: Check the library’s website for upcoming events open to visitors and residents. Who doesn’t love a plant swap or holiday party?
Marion County Courthouse
The county seat, Marion, is centered around its grandest building, the courthouse.
Constructed of native limestone in the Richardsonian Romanesque style in 1906, the Marion County Courthouse (200 S. 3rd St.) is worth viewing inside and out.
I spotted the exterior’s hand-carved stone with mascarons, or people’s faces. Who were they?
Other areas included intricate carvings of foliage, and interestingly enough, a fruit pie is hidden amongst the exterior’s beautiful design.
The courthouse’s administrator volunteered to give us a tour of the unoccupied courtroom.
You have to see it for yourself. It resembles something from a movie set.
OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES
Central Park
Even if you’re not traveling with kids, I encourage you to stop and explore Central Park (E. Main St.), where founding settlers once camped upon arrival in 1860.
The spacious park includes covered picnic tables, modern playground equipment, shade trees, and a tennis court. Horseshoe pits are available, but you’ll need to bring your own horseshoes.
Don’t miss the town’s largest Pete the Rhino statue.
NOTE: The natural spring was dry during our mid-March visit, but we still explored the rocky terrain, discovering some of the largest toads I’ve ever seen and a den of garden snakes. Careful where you step.
Marion Reservoir
How is it that a town of less than 2,000 people has not one, but two lakes? We started our lake adventures at Marion Reservoir by enjoying the scenic views and listening to the waves lap against the shore as boaters crossed the water.
Located only three miles northwest of town, Marion Reservoir is a must-stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Even if you don’t own a boat, you can still enjoy more than 6,000 acres of water from the shoreline. Anglers can drop a line from unlimited access points for walleye, crappie, channel catfish, and wipers.
Campers can choose from 171 primitive and RV hook-up sites. We played disc golf before pulling over at a campsite to use the playground equipment, so I could play like a kid again.
PRO TIP: If you want to navigate to the reservoir dam, map your route here, then follow paved roads to campsites.
Marion County Park & Lake
The second lake, Marion County Park & Lake, is smaller in size but just as enjoyable if you’re seeking a tranquil day on the water. And it’s located only one mile east of town.
Marion County Lake is surrounded by private residences, giving it a community vibe as you’ll likely see families exploring the area by boat or four-wheeler during the day.
The 40-foot-deep water is ideal for fishing bass, catfish, sunfish, and bluegill. If it’s winter, locals know to use the marina’s heated fishing dock.
Bring discs to ring hains on the 18-hole disc golf course with concrete pads located at the hilly southeast corner of the lake. Several baskets are located close to the water, making play more challenging.
Whether camping overnight or visiting for the day, the sandy swim beach looks to be a popular hangout not far from where kayakers enjoy the water.
Marion Country Club
You don’t have to be a member of the Marion Country Club (1501 East Hwy 256) to pay green fees and play nine holes. Players have enjoyed its manicured fairways since 1920.
Golfers can expect to pay their dues using the honors system drop box at the clubhouse building before teeing off or reserve their game play and cart online. Golf carts are located in a nearby shed.
Green sod, native trees, and hilly terrain make for a memorable game. Need a break during play? The clubhouse’s shaded front porch is the ideal spot to relax and rehydrate.
SPA SERVICES
S&S Med Spa
I grew excited when I learned that Marion has a spa, and even more enthused when I walked inside and saw how beautifully S&S Med Spa (308 E. Main St.) was designed.
S&S Med Spa is where you go when you need a reset. To escape to serenity. To unwind. And perhaps, to refine your body, too.
Operated by a doctor and her staff, the practice offers services including automated massage, IV therapy, skincare, dermal fillers, and more
I opted for a 20-minute session in the state-of-the-art massage chair. It exceeded my expectations.
My muscle tension released as the massage chair’s heat, rolling, and kneading worked me over from my neck to my toes. I nearly fell asleep while listening to Bluetooth music through headphones in the peaceful, darkened room.
If you’re short on time but still want a full-body massage, reserve a session in the automated massage chair.
The owner plans to add a spa-like grotto with a hot sauna and cold plunge area, which would be a wonderful way to start or end the day.
Now this is what a “treat yourself” day looks like in small-town Kansas.
LOCAL SHOPS
Aunt Bee’s Floral & Gifts
If you tell me there is a florist or houseplant store nearby, I’m there. Aunt Bee’s Floral & Gifts (1201 E Main St.) is a Marion mainstay, offering walk-in customers an array of floral arrangements and gifts to choose from.
Much of the retail caters to women who appreciate vibrant colors in home and garden decor.
A multi-sided display of $5 costume jewelry, adjacent to shelves stocked with kids’ plush toys and home decor, makes Aunt Bee’s Floral & Gifts a one-stop shop for gift givers who want to pair an item with a plant or floral arrangement.
We were visited by the store’s cat, a welcome delight while shopping.
CB Baked Goods
Marion’s residents got lucky when CB Baked Goods (420 E. Main St.) opened its doors to serve freshly baked goods.
Within minutes of introducing myself to the baker, Rachel, two customers arrived and placed their usual order for bierocks. It was lunchtime, and they were hungry for CB Baked Goods’ most popular menu item.
The Colletts, who are longtime residents, are used to the bakery’s frequent traffic. Rachel told me that she sells thousands of bierocks per year. Baked goods are sold as singles, half-dozen, or by the dozen.
Whether you visit CB Baked Goods for grab-and-go bierocks, bolsos, breakfast pizza, or dessert treats, you’ll leave happy like their regular customers.
TC’s What Not Shop
Remember when you were a kid and liked to hunt for hidden treasure? You’ll feel that sense of nostalgia inside TC’s What Not Shop (901 E. Main St.).
The store’s eclectic mix of antiques and collectibles is a picker’s dream. I noticed that each booth was labeled by seller, and while some included thematic, grouped items, other displays felt randomly displayed.
Visit TC’s What Not Shop if you love to search for low-cost items from your home or personal jewelry collection. A lake house sign. Faux pearl necklace. Seasonal decorations. They sell it all.
Jetset Clothing Co.
You won’t find run-of-the-mill women’s clothing or kids’ clothes at Jetset Clothing Co. (331 E. Main) because the boutique’s owner designs and embroiders the inventory.
Plus, she stocks modern brands like Risen jeans and Rustic Rays Candle Company.
What started as an online-only store became a brick-and-mortar business as the owner’s embroidered apparel gained popularity.
Shoppers can custom-design clothing, ordering shirts and hats embellished with the word or phrase of their choice, or shop her ready-to-wear apparel.
Love your trip to Marion so much that you want a keepsake? Jetset Clothing Co. is the store to purchase Marion Warrior merchandise.
Crafty Cactus Studio
Creative makers and shoppers who love unique art will appreciate Crafty Cactus Studio (329 E. Main St.)
The front of the store is dedicated to selling vendors’ creations, while the rear of the shop is a working studio space where you can work on craft projects.
The make-and-take craft studio is primarily focused on wood and ceramic projects. All ages are encouraged to participate, and because most projects are crafting kits, it’s suitable for all skill levels.
Short on time, I wasn’t able to sit down and craft a DIY project, but by the looks of the happy families crafting in the studio, it was entertaining.
PRO TIP: Review the Crafty Cactus Studio’s Facebook page to learn about upcoming workshops.
St. Luke Hospital Auxiliary Shoppe
A group of people waited to enter St. Luke Hospital Auxiliary Shoppe (321 E. Main St.) for several minutes before a store volunteer opened its doors.
Open on Fridays and Saturdays, the thrift store is popular for its heavily discounted household goods, clothing, shoes, and “didn’t know you needed it” items.
Be prepared to shimmy down the aisles amongst other shoppers while hunting for a good deal. Sale proceeds benefit St. Luke Hospital for equipment and remodeling expenses.
Lanning Pharmacy
Lanning Pharmacy‘s (217 E. Main St.) inventory of home decor and everyday essentials will surprise you. It’s not just a place to purchase medicine cabinet staples.
Need a holiday-themed or housewarming gift with a greeting card for someone? Want to create a gift basket with seasonal items? Lanning Pharmacy is your go-to shop.
PRO TIP: Find the clearance items table stocked with a plethora of discounted items you’ll definitely want to purchase.
Silk Salon & Boutique
Silk Salon & Boutique (125 E. Main) is where you can go to refresh your hairstyle or treat yourself to a pedicure, and it also doubles as a retail boutique.
The salon was abuzz with chatter when I stepped inside to browse the boutique’s clothing racks, stocked with Kansas-made alpaca sweaters.
The owner refreshes inventory with new clothing items, ranging from denim to on-trend shirts and shorts, depending on the season.
Expect free-flowing, comfortable blouses, jeans, and a small assortment of gift-ready plush toys and handmade blankets.
Bearly Makin’ It Antiques
Sometimes the best antique treasures are the ones with character and a lot of rust, or should I say, patina.
You’ll find everything, including the kitchen sink, at Bearly Makin’ It Antiques (1953 Sunflower) located on the north edge of town.
Open on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, cars arrive early parking wherever they can find a spot at the former alfalfa mill.
A walk of the property reveals rows of items grouped by category: old bikes, bed frames, sinks, metal tubs, farm implements, ladders, and the list goes on.
We spotted used wood furniture, structural items, antique tools, and various oddities inside both barns. Whatever your do-it-yourself project needs or your heart desires, Bearly Makin’ Antiques likely has it.
BOUTIQUES AND ANTIQUES BEYOND TOWN
Prairie Oaks Design / Doyle Creek Boutique
Stop everything and make the 11-mile drive Southeast to Florence, Kansas, if you want to find a true gem.
Doyle Creek Boutique and Prairie Oaks Designs are located under one roof (423 Main St), selling farmhouse-style home decor, handcrafted metal signage, feminine clothes, candles, kitchen staples, and more.
If you love the farm/rodeo aesthetic in Pioneer Woman style, this is your store.
Tables are fully stocked with neutral-colored gift items, and the reach-in refrigerator is always stocked with farm-raised beef cuts available for purchase.
Pay close attention to the store’s Facebook Events page for announcements about classes, sip-and-shop events, and seasonal open-house showcases.
The owner was a delight, and I was sad I didn’t have more time to shop. I wanted to buy everything in sight.
The Copper Shed
Drive less than 15 minutes Northwest of Florence to The Copper Shed (1832 140th), an antique store and barn on a couple’s private property.
Open Monday through Saturday, the owners filled two buildings with salvaged and primitive items. Start shopping outside to peruse grouped piles of rusty metalware before walking inside the buildings.
Rooms overflow with antique and seasonal decor inside the red building. The Christmas room, located up a ladder set of stairs, is not to be missed.
Expect groups of shoppers to mill about on the weekend in search of western-style primitives and signage bearing hand-painted catchphrases.
The second building, a well-organized barn, is filled to the brim with old housewares, farm tools, furniture, and you’ll even spot antique children’s toys.
ATTRACTIONS BEYOND MARION
Drive West on Highway 56
Chaplain Kapaun Museum
If you have extra time, drive to Pilsen, Kansas, to explore the Chaplain (Capt.) Emil J. Kapaun Museum (275th St. and Remington Rd.), next door to St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, which is gorgeous inside.
The museum, inside the old rectory where he lived, is free to visit and welcomes donations.
Open Thursday and Friday afternoons and Saturdays, Father Kapaun’s early life growing up in Pilsen and his priesthood are documented using his personal belongings.
A touchscreen interactive display recounts the Medal of Honor recipient’s childhood, his experience as a Prisoner of War in North Korea, and details where his remains were miraculously located decades after his passing.
PRO TIP: Walk to the upper level of the museum and the church next door for a complete, immersive tour.
Drive East or West on US 56/KS 156
Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve, Maxwell Wildlife Refuge
Seeking an outdoor adventure beyond Marion? Some of the best scenic views of the Flint Hills are only a short drive from Marion at the Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve.
Drive west on US 56 to view bison and elk from a tram ride through native grassland at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge.
MARION EVENTS TO PLAN A TRIP AROUND
Don’t miss Chingawassa Days, the first weekend in June. Since 1997, the three-day festival has featured a headlining band on the main stage, watermelon feed, vendors, and activities for all ages, often centered around the town’s official mascot, a rhino.
Bluegrass at the Lake takes place the first weekend in August, creating a laid-back atmosphere. Bands play on the Bob McCurdy Memorial Stage. A disc golf tournament, hula hoop contest, and bake sale keep the good times rolling.
Don’t miss the Art in the Park Craft Show, which fills Central Park every third weekend in September. Holly Jolly Christmas in Kansas turns the town into something straight out of a Hallmark movie on Small Business Saturday.
Within a short drive of Wichita, I’m delighted to have discovered Marion for its luxurious lodging, unique shops, and lake activities.
Reserve a good-weather weekend to make the most of a visit to Marion.
And if you’re in the area, consider extending the road trip west to McPherson or east to Emporia.
Seafood dishes using shrimp, flounder, and salmon offer heart-healthy menu options at dinnertime, while Lobster-Topped Chicken Fried Ribeye or Grilled Pork Tenderloin Medallions please indulgent eaters.
Guests who reserve a patio table can savor antipasti plates with a glass of sparkling wine surrounded by Tuscan-like stone walls and the sound of a hand-chiseled water fountain.
PRO TIP: Alla Campagna also serves lunch, distinguishing itself from some of the reservation-required Fredericksburg restaurants.
After the meal is prepared, students indulge in elevated fare at a beautifully decorated family-style dining room table. At private cooking classes of eight people or more, you can choose the menu and pace or select from existing menus.
If a group would prefer a cooking demonstration or private dinner rather than a hands-on class, interested parties can indicate their choice using an online request form submitted three weeks in advance. Eight menu selections range from French Bistro to Spanish Tapas.
After reviewing this fun-filled weekend itinerary, scroll to the bottom of this post with my bonus recommendations of more things to do curated from previous visits.
Disc golfers can expect a course that winds through shaded tree canopies, opening to picturesque views of the 80-acre lake. Concrete tee boxes and manicured fairways make ringing chains a delight.
The menu features an array of slow-smoked meats and a short list of homestyle side dishes. We shared the three-meat platter with friend okra (ranch dressing for dipping!) and their signature mac-and-cheese. The brisket, sausage, and burnt ends (more like pulled pork) had authentic smoke flavor and color.
A caddie of four barbecue sauces made our lunch experience more enjoyable as we tried each one in the “How Q are you?” challenge.
Cox Bros. BBQ sauces are worth buying before you leave, especially the Carolina sauce.
After one sip of Cart Girl, a pink lemonade vodka cocktail, I nearly scored a hole-in-one on the first hole. We listened to streaming Indie Rock music and we teased one another in true competitive style.
The best moments were when the course required golfers to enter fully designed rooms. We stopped playing long enough to snap photos within the rainbow room.
The cost for two people to play nine holes of mini golf (table golf not included) and two drinks was a bit steep, but the photo-worthy rooms made up for some of the expense. Expect to pay more money if you’re dining from the Sinkers Lounge food menu.
In the dimly lit ambiance of the original hotel’s interior, we sipped cocktails surrounded by dark green painted walls complementing dark wood finishes and burnt orange curtains. Crown molding and chandeliers accented a nearby space devoted to lounging with friends.
I deviated from the dinner menu, substituting a charcuterie board and deviled eggs on a bed of arugula for an entree. The fig-flavored spread, soft ricotta cheese, and cured ham layered on crackers were just what I hoped for and the deviled eggs sprinkled with chopped bacon delivered a big flavor. I sampled the table’s 1800 Steak entree, which was delicious in flavor but not as impressive as its price.
After self-parking in the hotel’s garage, we received a warm welcome from the staff member in the lobby, who checked us into 
The lobby’s Bistro Bar serves Starbucks® drip coffee and grab-and-go snack items. In the evening, it transforms into a full bar, an added perk since it’s located adjacent to the rooftop lounge, where couches and fire pit tables await.
We took advantage of the hotel’s high-speed Wi-Fi, in-room mini fridge, and proximity to the neighborhood’s attractions, including a Starbucks® coffee shop next door.
To my surprise, the line moved swiftly, likely because it consisted of regular customers who knew what they wanted to order. I opted for the Classic Coffee Flight, which included four 3-ounce cold and hot drip coffee pours.
As we sat down to enjoy coffee and breakfast pastries, we couldn’t help but notice the waiting line for customers from the register stretched to the front door, about 25 people deep.
I recommend ordering a Bacon Hand Pie, served warm with a butter-flavor flaky crust and a soft interior filled with egg, cheese, and of course, bacon. I sampled a sausage burrito, and it was tasty but not nearly as delectable as the hand pie.
As you meander from room to room, you’ll likely be wowed by the curated artifacts detailing the plight of the American soldier from the Revolutionary War through 1950.
You can expect to learn how the frontier was shaped, the Kansas-Missouri Border War, and the ongoing struggle for freedom thereafter.
Overall, the storytelling exhibits showcase a historical timeline while emphasizing the plight of the American soldier. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll appreciate the video displays and kids’ zone offering immersive experiences. The museum is fully accessible via elevators for aging visitors.
Exhibits represent soldiers’ efforts from 1917 to present. Well-worn uniforms and boots, guns, artillery, and photography on display humanize their experience fighting in World War I to current operations.
I was emotionally moved reading the displays about the typical Army soldier in each war. As the soldier’s eyes stared back at me, a sense of empathy and civic pride came over me. As you tour the museum, I suspect you’ll revere their civic duty similarly.
The sense of teamwork and devotion is clear when you look inside the D-Day diorama representing the infantry’s heroic actions on June 6, 1944.
Available for self-guided or guided tours, Custer House is not the colonel’s original home, but it represents it with rooms featuring period furniture and 19th-century homewares.
The museum’s employee informed us that the teddy bear, located upstairs in the children’s room, is said to move around the house, although she’s never witnessed any signs of haunted activity.
PRO TIP: Drive by Quarters 123 (123 Huebner R0ad) to see the residence where the chaplain resided until 1890. One of the oldest buildings on post, it was later used as a hospital during the cholera outbreak.
Outdoors, a memorial honoring the battalions who fought in various wars, pays tribute to U.S. Army soldiers.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss a chance to view outdoor displays of tanks outdoors, nearby memorials, and the 
My tomato bisque and Caesar salad combo was tasty and met my needs for a healthy lunch. The Italian panini prepared with savory meats and cheese was equally flavorsome.
Colobus Monkeys were the most active in the late afternoon, followed by prairie dogs, pelicans, and flamingos. The best time to visit a zoo is typically in the morning at feeding time if you want to see animals the most active, so it was no surprise that many species were sleeping.
I enjoyed taking photos of buzzing bees at work in the Master Gardener’s Butterfly Garden. Inside the Nature Exploration Center, we observed reptiles exploring their aquarium habitats. The zoo’s wide sidewalks and ample shade made exploring a pleasure.
PRO TIP: If visiting when school is out of session, sign up for the 
Owned by a Jamaican native and a Manhattan local, the menu is a mix of Jamaican and American entrees. The walls of the restaurant are covered in framed artwork, particularly of rock and blues musicians. An alternate dining room airs televised sports.
The Rasta Pasta with added shrimp was a large portion of penne pasta covered in Alfredo sauce. I kicked it up a notch by adding homemade jerk sauce (so good!) added heat.
Exploring A&H Farm is incredibly fun conjuring up thoughts of when we were kids playing adults-size yard games, swinging, and petting goats.
The highlight for me was walking inside the bird aviary. We watched as dozens of budgies (parakeets) flew by our heads from one side of the aviary to the other. In quieter moments, they ate from provided feeding sticks only inches from one’s hand.
Choose to dine inside the native limestone clubhouse or enjoy brunch from the patio. Ranked the top public golf course in Kansas, the fairways and greens are a vibrant emerald contrasted by blue skies matched only by the beauty of the rolling Flint Hills in the distance.
The 
Like any good brunch venue, Colbert’s also serves a short list of boozy beverages. The look of the golf course transported us to Ireland, so I ordered an Irish Coffee.
Established in 2014, the tasting room is open Wednesday through Sunday year-round for wine-tasting flights, wine slushies (non-alcoholic available), hard ciders, and beers.
The patio slowly filled with patrons as we watched dragonflies and swallowtails fly excitedly over 20 acres of vineyard. On this September day, the green of the Flint Hills was beginning to take on a slight tinge of yellow, a signal of upcoming autumn. An occasional breeze blew through the trellised vines.
Hungry? 
I purchased a record player last year, so I’m always keen to find a record store that appeals to my love of blues and rock music. Sisters of Sound Records carries a large selection of those genres, plus a few more.
Plus, if you’re looking for a new record player or jambox, peruse the back wall for available component systems.
If you’re shopping with someone who doesn’t like shopping (ahem!), they can hang out on the leather sofa under the “Kansas Is Not That Bad” banner, a picture-worthy backdrop.
PRO TIP: 
At first glance, it’s a sea of purple from wall to wall, stocked with clothing, apparel, home decor, and gifts. Look closer; you’ll also find Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals merchandise.
A haven for college students, the upstairs tables are typically occupied by college-aged scholars seated behind laptops. Downstairs, the register area doubles as a cafe.
PRO TIP: Look for the table of Mystery Books bags labeled by genre that are sold for a set price.
We sat amongst football fans supporting various teams while dining on Grilled Chicken Lips (tenders) and Cranberry Walnut Salad. Choose from burgers with unique toppings, grilled chicken sandwiches, and chicken wings to dominate 
PRO TIP: Plan your visit around Tanner’s 
The town may be known as the oldest city on the Missouri River, but its modern-day appeal makes it a town to put at the top of your travel bucket list.
As I enjoyed a bowl of fruit and a coffee, I watched as cycling groups and individual riders parked their bikes, enthusiastic to see one another. Tourists entered the adjacent bike shop to inquire about renting bikes and helmets for a day’s trek along the Katy Trail State Park’s route.
PRO TIP: The bike shop doubles as a bike rental stop and retail store. 
It wasn’t long before I was visiting with locals about the Frenchtown Historic District, a hub for art and music lovers who care deeply about the neighborhood and its history. The brewery’s lack of televisions created a setting conducive to making new friends.
PRO TIP: The museum is open during brewery hours and its contents rotate frequently.
Originating in St. Louis, Schlafly’s Bankside location is a three-story brewery and restaurant with indoor-only seating. I choose an unfiltered IPA from a list of 14 beers on tap. Although I wasn’t hungry, the gastropub-style menu options sounded good, and the portions were large by the looks of someone’s burger.
PRO TIP: I agree with Google reviewers. The restaurant gets busy by 10:00 a.m., so consider beating the rush and arriving at 9:00 a.m. like me.
The staff poured the way, I stirred it for less than a minute, and then they added a trimmed wick to complete it. Within two hours, my custom candle was available for pickup.
Shoppers can adhere patches of their choice to trucker-style ballcaps, a trending fashion accessory, or get creative and add them to a denim jacket. MJ’s offers hundreds of patches to choose from, whether you’re creating a hat for yourself or someone else.
PRO TIP: The shop and its sister location in town host regular events. View its 
Cookbooks, cutting boards, bakeware, you name it, they carry it. Choose from table linens to bottled condiments as you collect items for purchase.
PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for deals. Their signature line of bottled glazes and burger starters were marked down to only $5 at the rear of the store alongside other bargains the day of my visit.
The store’s inventory included year-round home decorations, faux flowers and plants, lamps, wall decor, candles, pillows, handbags, and jewelry.
If you’re looking for a treasure for yourself or someone else, expect to spend at least a half-hour perusing displays in the 4,700-square-foot store.
Today, it is home to over 70,000 residents who appreciate it for its historic roots as the state’s first capital city.
Retrace their journey by taking a self-guided tour of dioramas and exhibits that showcase natural artifacts. The most fascinating artifacts on view were the geological samples (Missouri geodes) and replica journal entries.
The museum sees over 25,000 visitors anually, including school groups, and many of its displays are kid-friendly. They will appreciate the Little Classroom walk-in house. 
PRO TIP: Walk behind the museum to see the 
Take a stroll along the Missouri riverfront’s paved sidewalks, taking breaks to admire one of the town’s well-known landmarks, 
My group, on The Key to the West: Pioneers, Explorers, & Traders…Oh My! tour, was handed old-school viewfinders to use when prompted by the tour guide along a five-block route. The guide talked as we walked from historic building to building, telling stories about the people who chose to live and work in St. Charles’ early days.
St. Charles was a center for trade, so the town’s center wanted it to become a capital city. Governor McNair signed a bill confirming its status in 1820, and legislators met there the following year to debate states’ and enslaved people’s rights.
The most interesting aspect of the tour was listening to our enthusiastic tour guide talk about the historical artifacts inside the restored Peck brothers’ general store and residence. The 1820s furnishings served as visual reminders or the hardship of early 19th Century life.
The top two levels of the building contain glass display cases filled with vintage soda bottles and merchandise representing a portion of one man’s collection. The main floor showcases many Coca-Cola-branded items, while the third floor showcases other soda brands.
PRO TIP: Add to the arcade experience by enjoying a meal from the snack bar with your favorite carbonated soda.
Once a train car factory in the 1920s, the building’s lower-level grand hall often hosts public events, including bingo nights and live performances.
At lunchtime, stepping into 
At lunchtime, stepping into 
One wouldn’t expect to find authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine in Missouri, but they haven’t dined at 
Start the day at 
At dinnertime, 
BONUS: Read the rest of my list of favorite spots in Olathe 
Get your steps in by shopping downtown before heading back to Mill Properties, where 
At dinnertime, bring friends to 
BONUS: Uncover endless adventures in Bonner Springs 
Cocktail enthusiasts should make a reservation at 
BONUS: While you’re in town, use this 
Pasta fans will feel at home dinging at 
BONUS: Discover more things to do and see in historic Leavenworth 
There is a reason they refer to the town as “Manhappening,” a sensibility you come to understand quickly.
I typically order a Combo Plate (Pick 2) for lunch or dinner; however, the Wood-Fired Grilled Salmon Salad and Smoked Brisket Nachos are calling my name. If you have room for dessert, a mega-sized slice of carrot cake is a shareable treat.
BONUS: I haven’t written a travel post about Overland Park yet. In the meantime, enjoy 
Kids of all ages will appreciate watching oy trains overhead deliver food to each table at 
BONUS: Spending the weekend in Shawnee? Use my 
Are you looking for a Kansas City suburb that didn’t make this list? It’s on my dining bucket list. Stay tuned for more foodie adventures on my 
The community draws musicians of various genres because of its respect for songwriters. Musicians including Keb’ Mo’, Joe Bonamassa, B.B. King, and Etta James have all performed or recorded music in Nashville.
I loved learning how each musician influenced another and the collaborations are endless.
Like me, I think you’ll find the displays showcasing the clothing and guitars particularly interesting. I gravitated to Keb’ Mo’s electric guitar and artists’ song lyrics visible behind display case glass.
The Crossroads gallery tells the chronological story of the blues from its migration from the Deep South north to cities including Nashville.
PRO TIP: For an additional $5 dollars, you can use a RFID bracelet to interact with tech-savvy displays that allow you to save custom music you create and email it to yourself.
As they say, “all are welcome” and this sentiment extends beyond merely hosting country music stars. Blues musicians have also graced the Ryman’s stage, including but not limited to Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Jonny Lang, and Blues Traveler.
Museum-quality illuminated glass cases caught my eye during a tour displaying iconic memorabilia. Elvis’ winter coat. Johnny Cash’s acoustic guitar. B.B. King’s blazer.
Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum is the kind of place music lovers could spend at least an hour exploring. If you use the technology stations to make music, plan on a two-hour museum experience.
The creative genius behind the process, Jack White, originally of the band The White Stripes, not only is a fan of blues music but also has recorded blues-inspired music of his own.
Their award-winning barbecue is served with southern hospitality, and if you’re lucky, Carey might swing by your table for a casual chat during the meal.
Menu favorites include heaping BBQ Nachos, Memphis Sushi, and Dry Rubbed Ribs, but when in doubt, opt for the shareable Combo Platter.
PRO TIP: Make time before or after your meal to get a glimpse of the 
With multiple locations to choose from, diners can easily find one near them.
Seating in the bar is limited, and due to its popularity, reserving seats is necessary Wednesday-Saturday. No need for reservations on Monday or Tuesday when walk-in seating is welcomed. View the venue’s upcoming show 
Part retail store, part venue, it’s candyland for guitar enthusiasts. Plus, it’s not uncommon for celebrities to stop by. Chris Stapleton sat down and strummed a few chords. Slash of Guns-N-Roses made an appearance. (Gibson carries the signature 
