Historic Delano, a neighborhood in Wichita, was founded in 1870 as part of the Chisholm Trail. Cowboys drove cattle from Texas through town, stopping to drink and gamble at its saloons.
It was incorporated into the city of Wichita in 1880, and now it is a walkable district of retail shopping, bars, coffee shops, restaurants, and inviting attractions.
Bonus! Unlike street parking in downtown Wichita, one can park for two hours at no charge along Douglas Avenue in the Delano neighborhood.
Where to Explore in Wichita’s Delano Neighborhood Like a Local
Walk the Historic Route
Start your walking tour of the Chisholm Trail at the limestone marker at Douglas Avenue and McLean Boulevard. Erected in 1941, it marks the path of the cattle drive route from Texas during the 1860s.
Walk west to the clock tower, Window in Time, located at the roundabout. Its sculpted panels detail scenes from the Chisholm Trail. A time capsule is buried at its base.
Continue walking west, noting the inscribed sidewalks, bike racks, and alleyway murals honoring its legacy as a cattle town
When cowboys descended upon Delano during its cattle driving heyday, saloon girls danced on bars and gunfights often erupted in the streets. Visitors to the area who wanted to cross the Douglas Avenue bridge over the Arkansas River into Wichita were charged a toll in 1872.
I recommend downloading the PocketSights mobile app to listen to a fascinating audio tour, Wild West Delano, created by Wichita History Walk.
PRO TIP: When dining at The Monarch, request the Running Doves Reuben Sandwich, a nod to the women who ran nude from the Arkansas River back to saloons in a race to determine which one was the fastest on foot.
Choose a Recommendable Restaurant or Bar
Pennant Coffee / Good Company Taps & Spirits
Start or end the day at Pennant Coffee / Good Company Taps & Spirits, which doubles as a daytime caffeine stop and a late-night cocktail bar.
Always a popular destination for friends chatting over lattes or laptops, I prefer a sunny window seat with a view of the neighborhood.
Bar drinks are served with or without booze. Add delectable bites such as chips with dip or gourmet pizza to your order.
Delano BBQ
The smell of smoked meat entices diners to Delano BBQ for speciality meat sandwiches with sides such as fried okra, mac and cheese or baked beans. Locals know the Loaded Cheese Fries or Funnel Cake Fries are menu must-haves so bring your friends or family for a shareable meal.
Fun Fact: The building once housed Blackbear Bosin’s artist studio, the man who designed The Keeper of the Plains. The restaurant’s decor highlights the artist’s work.
Taco Rio
Taco Rio isn’t fancy, and it doesn’t try to be. Regular customers order paper-wrapped tacos and burritos served fast and hot. The food is made fresh daily. Don’t skip the salsa bar.
Milkfloat
If you crave something sweet, visit Milkfloat for a scratch-made pastry, cookie or ice cream coffee drink. The dessert case also includes an assortment of vegan and gluten-free options. Kids (and adults!) love to play with the Lego® wall.
The Monarch
Located within a short walking distance of Equity Bank Park, The Monarch is the ideal restaurant to unwind with friends before attending a baseball game. The outdoor patio is an entertaining spot to people-watch, overlooking Delano’s roundabout.
Expect comfort classics on the menu, and if you’re a bourbon lover, you’ve come to the right place. I recommend starting a meal with brisket stuffed mushrooms to share with friends.
Vagabond Cafe
Vagabond Cafe attracts people in search of an off-beat place to enjoy a coffee or boozy beverage where the locals hang out. We like to visit for $2 Mystery Beers and play one of a couple dozen board games. Ask about the sliced cheesecake selection.
Yokohama Ramen Joint
Yokohama Ramen Joint serves Japanese ramen dishes and authentic entrees in a quaint restaurant space.
Voted the best Japanese cuisine by Wichita Magazine readers it’s also listed as one of the 50 Ramen Destinations by USA Today, the menu’s most popular dishes include Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, but I’m partial to Spicy Yakisoba.
Wichita Brewing Co. & Pizzeria
Wichita Brewing Co. & Pizzeria, a two-story restaurant known for craft beer and pizzas with unconventional toppings, is a must-dine destination. The second-story patio is the ideal place to sip and savor on a sunny day, and a coveted spot for watching the St. Patty’s Day Parade.
I’ve heard good reviews about their sandwiches, but I can’t seem to order anything other than pizza because I crave the Cajun Bacon Ranch and The Banick.
Manhattan Brewing Company Lounge
Drop in for a cold one at Manhattan Brewing Company, a taproom serving a rotation of flagship and rotator selections. The air-conditioned lounge’s garage door opens to the exterior patio, a comfortable refuge for dog owners who want to kick back with a Townie American Wheat.
La Galette French Bakery
If you crave the sophistication of a French pastry or European-inspired breakfast or lunch, dine at La Galette French Bakery.
Ask about the daily lunch special and get a glimpse of the dessert case before choosing a table for service. You can’t go wrong ordering a slice of Strawbeery Chantilly sponge cake.
Ty’s Diner
Sometimes you crave a handmade, greasy hamburger, and Ty’s Diner is the place to enjoy it at lunchtime. A staple of the Delano neighborhood for decades, regulars know to order a large basket of onion rings.
I recommend arriving when they open at 11:00 am (Monday-Friday) to secure a booth before the restaurant fills up quickly.
Mokas Coffee & Eatery
I’m a big fan of Mokas Coffee & Eatery because they serve coffee drinks and breakfast all day. At lunchtime, I like to order the Chicken Pesto Sandwich with a cold coffee while working remotely.
They often feature a seasonal drink special, and the fruit smoothies and refreshers over ice are solid choices.
Picasso’s Pizzeria
Picasso’s Pizzeria serves whole pies and pizza by the slice, aka “slices of art,” in a casual atmosphere with a bar. The pizzas, calzones, and sandwiches are good-sized portions, so come hungry.
NuWAY Burgers
If you only dine at one restaurant in Delano, I hope you choose NuWAY Burgers, a popular hangout for lunch or dinner since 1930. Order a loose meat sandwich with curly fries and a frosty mug of homemade root beer.
Enjoy buy-one, get-one-free Junior NuWays with a purchase of a drink on Sundays.
Go Shopping for a New-To-You Treasure
Spektrum Muzik
I’m a purist when it comes to listening to music, so shopping at Spektrum Muzik for new and used vinyl records is a treat. The friendly staff helps me find records by artists I may appreciate based on my music tastes.
View the records under the Local Bands section, and if you still own a CD player, you’ll appreciate their used inventory selection.
Hatman Jack’s
Actress Shirley MacLaine once said, “All you really need in life is some fresh water, a good hat, and a really good pair of shoes.” Shoppers at Hatman Jack’s can choose a new hat from an array of styles, ranging from a fedora to a cotton canvas cap.
In business for decades, the hattery offers concierge services to create a custom design after taking your measurements.
Wildflower Mercantile
Continue the shopping local theme at Wildflower Mercantile, where dozens of local makers sell their crafts and gifts under one roof. Each vendor’s display features information about the inspiration for the products.
Choose from Wichita merchandise, jewelry, handmade candles, hats, mugs, and more. The items are unique and unlike anything you’ll find at a big-box store.
Sweet ‘n Saucy
When I want to purchase a gift for someone who is fun-loving, I shop at Sweet ‘n Saucy. The store carries candy, bottle pop, and over 350 bottled sauces. Create a gift basket containing a pair of wacky socks, hot sauces, and bulk candy for a friend or relative.
Fartleks Running Shop Smoothie Stop
I met the owner of Fartleks Running Shop Smoothie Stop last year who told me he opened the store because Wichita runners needed it. Purchase a new pair of kicks for an upcoming race, but don’t leave without fueling up on a 5K Finisher or River Run smoothie.
All Things Barbecue
All Things Barbecue is an outdoor cook’s heaven. The store carries the city’s largest selection of barbecue grills, smokers, sauces, seasonings, and grilling gadgets. We attend their tasting events to learn how to cook with new-to-us condiments.
The massive store also carries high-end outdoor furnishings, making it the go-to shopping experience if you’re ready to redo your home patio or deck setup.
Bungalow 26
Everyone deserves to unwind after a long day of work or travel in tranquility, and Bungalow 26‘s inventory of bath and body products for men and women elevates the experience. You can also expect to fall in love with items for the home, such as Wichita flag glassware and hand-poured candles.
Vortex Souvenir
When you enter Vortex Souvenir, you’re transported to a place where creativity reigns. At least, it will feel that way while you shop for artwork and gifts created by independent artists. Funny sayings and quirky messaging appear upon book covers, greeting cards, and calendars.
I often leave having purchased Wichita postcards and refrigerator magnets. People with a sense of humor will feel at home at Vortex Souvenir.
Bicycle X-Change
Since 1973, the family-owned Bicycle X-Change is known for its in-stock bicycle selection and service shop with 24-hour turnaround. The award-winning bike shop has the largest TREK dealer inventory in the Midwest.
Even if you’re not in the market for a new bike, you probably could use a bike bell or helmet.
Seek Out Entertainment
Blade & Timber
Go for the bullseyes and the beers at Blade & Timber, an axe-throwing bar perfect for gathering with friends for competitive play. My family appreciated the staff’s patience teaching us how to throw safely, and they took our photo afterward to capture the fun.
Wichita Baseball Museum
Some baseball fans don’t realize a museum dedicated to Wichita’s history of the sport is nestled inside Equity Bank Park. It’s free to tour Monday-Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, when events are not hosted.
You’ll see hundreds of rare Wichita baseball artifacts and original NBC merchandise.
Wichita Wind Surge Baseball Game
Equity Bank Park is a major draw for first-time visitors and locals to watch the Wichita Wind Surge, the city’s Minor League baseball team.
Walk the stadium’s interior to view its notable public art installations when you’re not taking in the high-energy innings. Hungry? The park expanded its concessions menu to include quesadillas, soft-serve ice cream, and buffalo-style fries.
Wichita Ice Center
The Wichita Ice Center made the list in my book 100 Things To Do In Wichita Before You Die because anyone of varying skill levels can take to the ice during public skate sessions.
The center also offers Learn to Skate Classes with skate rental provided for ages 3 and up.
Wichita Advanced Learning Public Library
At the Wichita Advanced Learning Public Library, one can learn about the history of Wichita in the Special Collections department on the second floor. Shop for discounted books at the Friends of the Wichita Library retail store.
Wichita Club Billiards
The home of Wichita Pool Players Hall of Fame, Club Billiards is a hangout for open play when they’re not hosting a tournament. The billiards bar has served competitive players for over 70 years.
Historic Delano is certainly a Wichita neighborhood worth exploring, whether you’re visiting for the day or seeking weekend-worthy fun.
The neighborhood has evolved since its days as a rowdy cowtown. Today, it’s a lively atmosphere where you can shop, dine, or hang out like a local.
You may also enjoy these bonus Wichita posts: Wichita Candy Shops To Indulge Your Sweet Tooth, 3 Must-Try Cultural Food Experiences in Wichita, and 12 Fun Day Trips From Wichita.
Take a deep dive into Wichita by reading my books, 100 Things To Do In Wichita and Secret Wichita: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure.
From big items like old handmade furniture and saddles to delicate antique glassware and jewelry, 
Serious shoppers will want to devote at least an hour or more to scanning shelving and peering into glass cases at 
Two store employees quickly asked me if there was anything they could help me find, but I wasn’t in search of anything specific. Because the store’s vast collection can seem overwhelming upon entry, it may help to preview featured items on the 
Some of the booths’ owners did an excellent job of displaying items by theme, and I was surprised to find handcrafted items like unique lamps or embroidered tee towels nestled amongst antiques.
PRO TIP: Ask about layaway options if you want to add an investment piece to your collection.
PRO TIP: The charming store, located in a historic building, is an antiquity. Walk to the back of the store and look up at the tin ceiling and architecture.
The darkroom was left untouched, including images drying on a clothesline. 
Although I didn’t visit during one of those events, I still found it worthwhile to tour. Beyond the “main street,” it includes the Grove Ill Schoolhouse relocated from the Lincoln Township. A 1859 settler’s cabin is also a noteworthy sight.
PRO TIP: Ask about their latest addition to the baked goods line-up, miniature homemade pies. The day’s menu special is written on a wall chalkboard.
I happily devoured my lunch while watching customers order at the counter and grab a seat at tables and a nearby couch. Surrounded by music-themed artwork, I felt relaxed while enjoying the sounds of vintage rock music.
PRO TIP: If you’re a sports fan, M&R is a great place to watch the game, with TV views from a dining room booth. Carve out time to visit the 
PRO TIP: Take a few minutes to walk next door to the Central Kansas Free Fairgrounds to locate another Cowboy Boot Art installation. You can’t miss it.
The Big Spur stands 28 feet high and weighs one ton. Constructed in 2002 by Larry Houston, it’s certified by Guinness World Records as the largest.
The boots are a tribute to T. C. McInerney’s Drovers Boot Store open in the 1870s. He made the first pointed toe boot. A fitting tribute since Abilene was a major stop on the Chisholm Trail.
PRO TIP: Each boot is located at a commercial building, so parking is usually not an issue. View the 
Across the street, a similarly designed blonde brick building once used as the Union Pacific Freight Station (110 N. Cedar St.). 
In 2015, Gress said, “If people at least understand what’s going on out there and how important it is, maybe they’ll come to appreciate it and want to protect it and maybe change their own behavior to improve the situation.” (Source: The Wichita Eagle)
In 1958, the budding entrepreneurs grew the company from a humble start-up business to one of the world’s biggest, most well-known restaurant companies. Today, the company’s net worth is worth over $810 billion.
Today, Chance Rides is the only one of the three businesses still in operation, producing roller coasters, rides, and park trains.
He laid out the trail between his trading post at the mouth of the Little Arkansas River to the Indian territory that extended northward to Abilene, Kansas. Cowboys pushed cattle herds through town and across the river near the Douglas Street Bridge.
Nicknamed “The Rave,” the 6-7 forward averaged 24.3 points in four seasons at WSU and helped lead the team to their first NCAA appearance in 1964.
The highly decorated leader earned the National Security Medal, the President’s Citizens Medal, National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal (twice), and the Distinguished Intelligence Medal (three times).
Her tirades continued for years. Eventually, she was jailed many times before dying in Leavenworth, Kansas, on June 9, 1911.
I appreciate that Wichita Park and Recreation, in partnership with Byers, decided to beautify the city’s parks with artistic benches that beautify the surroundings and showcase Wichita’s history makers. Byer’s use of vibrant colors, the Wichita flag, and the city’s abbreviated name, ICT, make them symbolic.
McClain’s Market
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
Blind Box BBQ
Paulo and Bill
Nick & Jake’s
Flying Cow Gelato
Indoors, the air conditioning was inviting. I watched professional volleyball on TV as 1950s music hits played from the speaker.
Land-based activities include equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, which appeared well-groomed and easy to navigate. I saw dog parents watching four-legged friends at the 44-acre off-leash area. Families ate lunch while admiring stunning lake views at picnic shelters.
To fully understand how Shawnee was established, tour the inside of an 1878 farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and chicken coop (live roosters and hens welcome you!). The reality of farmstead life becomes apparent when entering the Market Shed, where produce was washed and sorted for the market.
I found the botanical gardens, planted and maintained by K-State Research and Extension Center’s master gardeners, to be a highlight. The Typewriter Repair Shop was by far my favorite building for its authenticity.
The museum’s annual Bloody Mary Party is a popular fundraiser that uses the working farm’s tomato crop. You will want to attend their celebrations. Check their 
Are you following my Kansas road trips on social media? I post bonus content on 
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.
At lunchtime, locals gravitate to the coffee shop to market fresh sandwiches, salads, and wraps. The day I visited, the owner made homemade bierocks in the kitchen. Each day, the chalkboard displays a new menu special. Locals told me the Chicken Salad on Croissant sandwich is a must-have menu item.
Goff wants the mural’s vibrant colors to attract viewers who use it as an interactive backdrop to take selfies. I didn’t hesitate to take one with the sunflower’s petals in the background. The artist said she may not sign the mural because “it belongs to the town.”
Artist Majorie Hall Bicker painted a scene depicting moments in Wellington’s history around the corner from BeeHive Quilt Shop on 7th Street. Dedicated to the city in 2000, visiting the mural should be part of everyone’s visit to town.
PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for ghost signs that appear faded on downtown buildings. The 120-year-old Jacob Engle Dry Goods sign at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Street was recently restored for Wellington’s 150th anniversary.
Another can’t-miss architectural wonder, The Pink House (114 S. Jefferson), is a sight for the eyes. Unlike any other residence in Wellington, the home is not open to visitors, but people often take photos with it in the background.
The park features picnic areas, playground equipment for the kiddos, a sand volleyball pit, and fishing areas. The well-maintained disc golf course includes concrete pads and wide fairways for beginner to moderately difficult play.
Outside, the historical tour continues with the Bronze Field Guns exhibit. The cannons were delivered upon the request of the Grand Army of the Republic James Post of Wellington in 1909. Delivered in 1915, they serve as a memorial.
PRO TIP: Visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce to purchase branded merchandise, including ground coffee, t-shirts, holiday ornaments, and more.
Interestingly enough, the building itself is a historical treasure. Once known as Hatcher Hospital, Dr. A. R. Hatcher and his staff treated patients using state-of-the-art equipment in pristine conditions. The building was gifted to the Chisholm Trail Museum in 1965.
Of course, I was fascinated by the room designed to resemble a vintage soda fountain complete with a vinyl booth, ice cream dishes, and the “Let’s Sell Ice Cream” book once used at the Chief Drug Soda Fountain until 1986.
At age 85, Perry enthusiastically gives guided tours of the museum, pointing out items he curated or gifted to him, like the two-sided depot bench and original Santa Fe merchandise featuring the company mascot, Chico. A clock wall displays timepieces that were inspected for the correct time to ensure trains arrived on schedule.
Aside from the impressive collection, it’s possible that Perry’s love of all things railroad will rub off on you. Not only did I learn about railroad employees’ work, but I also had a better appreciation for the industry that helped develop so many Kansas towns, including Wellington.
At 
Besides beautiful apparel, Bay & Brielle Co.’s accessories are on par with the latest trends. A collection of seasonal shoes, hats, and colorful handbags make completing an outfit a cinch.
Most of the inventory caters to shoppers looking for a refined rustic or farmhouse deco style. A corner of the store even carries nursery decor and toys for parents or grandparents looking for something new. Shopping at Salty Creek Decor is an interior designer’s dream and is sure to inspire.
I tried something out of my comfort zone and sampled the highly recommended fresh pork rinds with pepper jack cheese and spinach queso, which I devoured. The rinds arrived at the table, crackling fresh from the fryer.
My server recommended that I save room for dessert, and even though I was full, I couldn’t turn down caramel churros with vanilla ice cream drizzled with honey and chocolate. 100% delicious.
Wellington is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring some of the top attractions in south-central Kansas. A short drive from Wichita, I was delighted to meet residents who made me feel welcome, and there were unlimited places to explore. I know you’ll fall in love with it, too.
