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Christmas

The Best Places to Sip & Savor in Olathe, Kansas

November 8, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Visit Olathe sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Follow the winery, brewery, and sweet treats trail in Olathe! The northeastern suburb, located near Kansas City, offers visitors plenty of places to sip and savor. If you love coffee and pastries, a glass of palate-pleasing wine, or a well-crafted beer, you’re going to love Olathe.

DAY 1

SWEET TEE’S COFFEE SHOP

You’re going to need to fuel up for a fun day of exploring sip-and-savor locations. I recommend starting your day at Sweet Tee’s Coffee Shop (2063 E. Santa Fe) where the locals go for relaxing vibes and a delicious breakfast.

coffee shop interiorOpened in its original location in 2015, the cafe won Best Atmosphere for two years running by Restaurant Guru. You’ll love the casual, comfy ambiance of the café, which reminded me of The Perk in the TV show Friends.  Trending music plays in the background as patrons sit at tables sipping coffee and bent over laptops. Paired-up friends chat about the day’s happenings.

They offer a long list of traditional coffee drinks but it’s the specialty drink menu that shines. They also have almost two dozen flavor combinations to choose from when crafting your custom coffee drink. For customers who prefer a non-coffee beverage, Sweet Tee’s Coffee Shop serves tea and cider.

Muffin & Lattécoffee mugsIt is nearly impossible to order at the register without also spying on a delicious homemade pastry in the bakery case. The owner told me that she had just pulled warm blueberry muffins from the oven so it was a no-brainer. It was the perfect pairing with my chai latté.

The barista asks dine-in customers to choose their coffee mug from a wall of colorful cups of various sizes and designs. It makes for a memorable experience and one that you’ll want to repeat.

PRO TIP:  Tell the barista what size coffee you prefer and they will point you to the row of mugs that match it in size.

KC WINE COMPANY

As I pulled into the massive parking lot, I realized that KC Wine Company (13875 S. Gardner Rd) would become my happy place. I could see vineyards, a barn, and an inviting tasting room. Soon, I was getting a private tour of the ground from its founder. But first, I needed one of their famous wine slushies. Or two.

wine slushyKC Wine Co. is not just a tasting room next to a vineyard. It’s a winery destination located on five acres with a multitude of things for visitors to enjoy.

The owners wanted guests to use all of the senses while visiting. Whether you’re noting the smell of fresh cedar inside the red barn or sitting on a swing and enjoying the view with a wine glass in hand, you’ll get the full experience.

KC Wine Company Vineyard Pub SignInside The Barrel Room, adults can savor tasting flights ranging from dry whites and reds to sweeter varieties. Just beyond its doors, you’ll discover an expansive open-air building with outdoor seating and a scenic view of the vineyards. An oversized KC Wine Co. lights up at night providing a picture-worthy moment.

The owners also created an area devoted to visitors of all ages. Depending on the season, guests can experience Sunflower Fest, a pumpkin patch, and a self-guided holiday lights tour. Bring your camera! You can take photos next to Instagram-friendly backdrops. Parents with children can watch their kids enjoy the playground equipment. Dog lovers will appreciate the annual event Mutts & Merlot which encourages visitors to bring their furry family members.

wine bottlePlan your visit to the winery around one of their popular events or harvest dates. You won’t want to miss events like Oktoberfest, Cider Fest, and Sunflower Fest. The fun continues during the Christmas season when Santa makes an appearance and twinkling lights illuminate the space.

White wines are harvested in late August and you can expect reds to be harvested in late September or early October. You don’t have to pay an admission fee or place a reservation before your arrival. View the winery’s hours here.

kc wine coThe red barn is also open to visitors. Walk inside to order a wine slushy, a pint of Free State Brewing Company craft beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Look for a seasonal display with a bench to take a photo with friends or family.

PRO TIP: Pack a soft-sided cooler. If you purchase a chilled wine like their top seller Sunflower Red, you’ll want to keep it at temperature for the drive home.

TALL TRELLIS BREW CO.

It was time to continue the sip-and-savor tour and I was famished. I drove a short distance to Tall Trellis Brew Co. (25600 W. Valley Parkway). The family-run business originated as a hop farm and has since grown into a brewery that also features a coffee shop, event location, and lunch or dinner destination.

Tall Trellis Brew Co.The building is a welcoming and beautifully designed space. The owners, who are brothers-in-law, did an incredible job creating both an indoor and outdoor patio space with you can sit back and be yourself, plus dogs are allowed on the patio.

Indoors, white tiling and wood textures contrast with green accents. A photograph of their hop farm guides the eye down a hallway. Nearby, an event space is separated by an interior glass door. The vibes are unpretentious and comfortable. It’s the kind of place where you just want to hang out all afternoon.

From one barrel to five barrels, the brewery quickly expanded since its opening last spring. Although they don’t off traditional beer flights, I wanted to taste all five of their brews ranging from an espresso stout to a golden ale. Each one tasted true to character and exceeded my expectations. My favorite was Snap Chaps Western IPA, and lucky for me, I took a crowler home to enjoy later.

They invite breweries who use their hops to join the tap wall. Patrons can choose from guest taps from makers like Fields and Ivy Brewery, Free State Brewing Company, and Kansas Territory Brewing Company. Non-beer drinkers will appreciate their selection of wine and coffee bar selections.

PizzaThe food menu included a short list of flatbreads. When they told me that the brisket on the Meats Pizza was made by an American Royal award-winning barbecuer, Abs of Squeal, it was a no-brainer. My lunchtime experience was top-notch and I can’t wait to return to Tall Trellis Brewing Company.

PRO TIP: The brewery hosts food trucks every weekend. Check out their Facebook page for updates and brewery hours.

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON KANSAS CITY OLATHE

It was a good time during my sip-and-savor tour to take a break and check into my hotel room at Embassy Suites by Hilton (10401 S. Ridgeview Rd.). The highly-rated hotel is stunning inside. The lobby’s modern design and cobalt blue accents caught my eye.

hotel lobbybedroomMy suite consisted of a 456 sq. ft. living room separated from the bedroom by a privacy door. I appreciated its amenities including free WiFi and a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator. Each room had a 42-inch HDTV, and the bedroom’s king-sized bed was as comfy and plush as they come.

In the morning, hotel breakfast is complimentary. If you stay at the hotel, you can dine at Burger Shed. The restaurant serves burgers and handcrafted shakes.

PRO TIP: Flip the master light switch on the wall when you enter the suite otherwise you won’t be able to access lighting or the TV in the bedroom.

Burger Shed

STONE PILLAR VINEYARD & WINERY

Stone Pillar Vineyard & Winery (11000 S. Woodland St.) is nestled in the heart of Olathe. Well, technically Olathe built itself up around the vineyard. It seems more like Olathe built itself around the vineyard given that the property’s deed from 1865 hangs framed on the wall. 

Stone Pillar Vineyard & WineryThe five-generations, family-owned vineyard and winery produce more than 20 wines, hard ciders, and wine slushies. During my taproom visit, I discussed the winery’s history with the owner while savoring the “Thankful for Wine” $10 flight (5, 2oz pours), a wide-ranging selection of dry to sweet wines. 

wine bottlesTheir best-selling wine, Hoftoberfest, tastes semi-sweet with pineapple notes that finish crisp. I prefer full-body, dry reds so I was a fan of Zin XXI which had blackberry and plum notes.

Tasting room walk-in visits are welcomed, but for groups of four or more people, they encourage reservations. If you want an in-depth “serious tour,” you definitely need to call ahead to give the staff a heads-up.

vineyard at sunsetOutside, wine enthusiasts can take advantage of patio seating and covered seating inside a second building that is also available for group parties. I recommend planning your visit around the sunset hour.

PRO TIP: Live in the area? The owner is planning to relaunch Stone Pillar’s Wine Club, so inquire about it upon your arrival.

RED CROW BREWING COMPANY

Red Crow Brewing Company (1062 W. Santa Fe) is not just another Kansas brewery. The beer is just as pleasantly unique as the names they give it. Each beer is given a woman’s name chosen by the owners, a husband and wife duo. I created a beer flight of five, 2 oz pours with names like Eleanor, Isabelle, and Sybil. I appreciated a Kansas Bock, Hattie, for its balanced taste and mouthfeel. 

beer flightI was impressed by the brewery’s ample space to unwind and craft beer. Locals grouped up at tables with a view of the game. Couples chatted over beer and dinner entrees from the on-site food truck, Casual Foodie.

Although I arrived a few minutes late for Happy Hour (3 pm-6 pm), it did not bother me. The drink and food menu prices were on par with what you’d pay at any brewery. Casual Foodie’s two-page menu included meal choices for every kind of eater. I ordered a soft taco trio made with pork bulgogi, jerk chicken, and sweet potato. 

tacosPRO TIP: The brewery is closed Mondays, so you’ll want to plan your visit when the brewery and the food truck are open. View the hours here.

SWEET THANG & CAFÉ

Day 1’s sip-and-savor tour ended at Sweet Thang & Café (1088 W. Santa Fe) only steps from Red Crow Brewing Company. Opened in 2019, the dessert destination is incredibly popular with locals. The moment I walked in, I knew I was in the right place. “Welcome!” the staff exclaimed. Customers never stopped walking into the ice cream shop.

ice cream shop Ice cream, baked goods, and candy dominated the menu, and the place smelled like freshly made waffle cones. I opted for a double scoop of Rocky Road ice cream, but seriously, you can’t go wrong no matter your menu choice. I recommend giving yourself a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.

ice cream waffle coneNot in the mood for ice cream? Choose a hazelnut iced coffee, latte, or vanilla macchiato from the Espresso Bar menu. 

PRO TIP: The Sandwich Station kitchen closes at 7 pm, so plan ahead. Mama’s Italian with chips, anyone? View the menu here.

DAY 2

POUR COFFEEHOUSE

Rise and shine! Day 2 of the Olathe sip-and-savor tour started at Pour Coffeehouse (11120 S. Lone Elm Rd). The quaint coffee shop was bustling with customers by 8:30 am when I arrived. It was raining and it seemed as if everyone wanted to warm up with a cup of Joe and breakfast.

Pour Coffeehousecoffee and giftsA quick scan of the shelves and I noticed that they sell their own bagged coffee beans, so I kept it simple and ordered a tall drip coffee. Irresistible pastries stared back at me from the glass case. A warm strawberry homemade Pop-Tart and a slice of quiche tasted delightful while I watched it rain outside from a window seat. Nearby, a cabinet with jewelry, branded merchandise, and retail candles sat on display.

PRO TIP: Seating is at a premium during peak hours so arrive early or choose a patio table on a good-weather day. Parents with kids in tow will appreciate the oversized Connect 4 game on the front lawn. 

JUNQUE DRAWER BOUTIQUE & STUDIO

You’re in for a treat at Junque Drawer Boutique & Studio (233 S. Cherry St.). Located in a restored three-floor historic home built in 1874, the owner created a sip-and-shop experience. 

Order a glass of wine or beer from the first floor’s bar and let the shopping begin. Don’t blame me if you overspend. It’s easy to do without drinking. Almost every inch of the house is filled with home decor, signs with phrases, women’s apparel, handcrafted art and jewelry, and specialty food gifts. 

kitchen supplies Continue the sip-and-savor trail fun by purchasing ready-made drink mixes, wine accessories, or drinking glasses with hilarious sayings on them. As you walk from room to room, you’ll notice each one is named after a woman.

What will you discover inside Blanche’s room or Pearl’s room? I found myself immersed in gift options I wanted to buy for others and myself. You could easily spend an hour in the store. Suddenly, I spotted just what I wanted. It was a wall decor sign that reflected my love for travel imprinted with the phrase “Headed Somewhere.” It was coming home with me. 

giftsThe owner of Junque Drawer also owns Holiday House across the street (101 W. Cedar) which is one-stop shopping for all things festive. Thematic rooms are designed by style and color creating Christmas decor and ornaments. Wait until you see the bathroom shower filled with pillows!

See a gift you love from someone? Ask the owner to personalize it with a handwritten name or message.

Holiday House holiday giftsPRO TIP: Start on the third floor and work your way down ending the shopping experience at the register. If you’re in search of a specific gift item, ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction. 

PARK STREET PASTRY

A one-minute drive from Junque Drawer is Park Street Pastry (103 E. Park St.) where lovers of authentic European desserts and sweet treats go. Pastry Chef Douglas Flick’s loyal customers know they can find freshly made cinnamon rolls, a popular breakfast choice, ready to order. Park Street PastryI recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was in search of lighter fare and choose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.

The lunch menu consists of multi-layered sandwiches, salmon cake, bbq meals, and more. Sandwiches come with a classic side garden salad.

croissantPRO TIP: Don’t be surprised if they say you can pay for your order after dining in. Bring cash or you must spend $5 for a credit card purchase.

Curious about the downtown area?  Take advantage of rentable scooter stations, and don’t miss the historic marker across the street in front of the Johnson County Courthouse. It designates a spot on the route of the Santa Fe Trail where traders traveled. In fact, the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site is where travelers could purchase supplies and spend the night. Today, it’s open to museum-goers year-round.

Sante Fe Trail marker

JOE’S KANSAS CITY BAR-B-CUE

The final stop on the sip-and-savor trail led me to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Cue (11950 S. Strang Line Rd.). When in the Kansas City area, you can’t leave without ordering award-winning barbecue, a long-standing tradition for the restaurant since 1992. The Olathe location stays busy during peak meal hours so you can expect a short wait to order a bbq dinner or sandwiches. It’s well worth your time.

bbq restaurantThe menu includes drool-inducing sandwiches like The Z-Man Sandwich made with slow-smoked beef brisket topped with provolone cheese and onion rings. People rave about it for a good reason. It’s filling, so consider ordering the regular-sized sandwich versus the jumbo portion.

I chose to order the burnt ends lunch special served with (check the small menu board as you walk up to the register). You get your choice of one side dish and a fountain drink. The food is consistently good at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, so whether you order a rib dinner or smoke chicken, or order meat by the pound to go, you can’t go wrong.

The Z-Man SandwichThe food Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is putting out is pure kitchen magic. Do you want to try a variety of smoked meats? Order a Combo Sandwich or a Two Meat Dinner. Save room for dessert – make sure to ask about the seasonal dessert while ordering your meal. bbq burnt endsPRO TIP: Walk across the parking lot and check out The Kansas City BBQ Store to purchase bottles of barbecue sauce, dry rubs, and grilling tools to recreate your meal at home.

Who’s ready to set out on a two-day adventure through Olathe appreciating the best wine, beer, and sweet and savory food selections the area offers? The city has a multitude of places to indulge your palette. Follow the sip-and-savor trail with your sweetheart or grab a group of friends or family and start exploring.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: barbecue, bbq, beer, boutique, brewery, cafe, Christmas, coffee, coffee shops, dessert, Embassy Suites, food truck, gift shop, hard cider, hops, hotel, ice cream, Kansas, Kansas City, Midwest, Northeast Kansas, Olathe, pastries, pizza, santa fe trail, savor, sip, trail, vineyard, wine, winery

Out & About in Shawnee, Kansas: Top Places to Visit

December 16, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t love Shawnee, Kansas. No matter what you’re looking for in a city, they’ve got it. Voted one of the “Best Small Cities in America,” you definitely want to experience it.

This mural sits in the center of historic downtown Shawnee, a district that has experienced a resurgence after multiple breweries, independently-owned stores, and a renovated theatre in the last several years.

My travel itinerary was long, but I was determined to hit as many places on it as I could. Shopping downtown? Check. A tour of a historic theatre? Check. Drinking wine in a castle? Don’t mind if I do.

With excitement building, I drove to my hotel to get settled and prepare for a day of exploration. I was only going to be in Shawnee one full day and I wanted to make the most of it.

LODGING

COURTYARD KANSAS CITY SHAWNEE

Courtyard Kansas City Shawnee (17250 Midland Dr.) is an ideal place to stay when looking for pleasant accommodations near the action. It’s located minutes from downtown Shawnee, the Kansas City Power and Light District, and Legends Outlets.

As a Marriott Bonvoy rewards member, I appreciate the hotel chain for its clean, comfortable rooms that often feel like they were made just for business travelers.

The king guest room has enough room for you to lounge in the sitting area and watch TV when you’re winding down from a busy day. A desk, free Wi-Fi, microwave, and small refrigerator provide all the amenities one needs when staying away from home.

This hotel offers guests breakfast choices in the morning at The Bistro, which also serves dinner and cocktails in the evening. On-site fitness facilities and an indoor pool make it easy for guests wanting to get in a workout. Looking for a change of scenery? The indoor and outdoor lounge spaces offer guests comfortable couches while the lobby’s work center makes it easy to catch up on emails.

BREAKFAST

PEGAH’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

Breakfast – the more important meal of the day and one that I never miss. I was anticipating the arrival of a friend to meet at Pegah’s Family Restaurant (11119 Johnson Dr.). Situated in the heart of the historic downtown district, the popular eatery has served diners homemade cooking since 1987.

Breakfast burritos, flavorful skillets, and stacked pancakes – oh my! When everything looks delicious, what should I order? I opted for the corned beef hash, eggs, and hashbrowns. It was an indulgence worth every bite. My friend enjoyed the fruit and yogurt bowl, which looked divine.

No matter what you order at Pegah’s, you’ll be thankful for the fresh ingredients and oversized portions. Plan accordingly. The restaurant is also known for delectable pies and once you see them, you’ll want to order dessert. Cruise by the refrigerator case in the front of the restaurant before asking for your check. You’ll thank me later.

To view the restaurant’s menu and location hours, visit the website. As they say, “comfort is just a spoonful away!”

DOWNTOWN SHAWNEE

If you’ve followed my travel posts, you know how much I appreciate supporting local businesses. Downtown Shawnee is a walkable district that makes it easy to spend your dollar locals since a majority of the stores, restaurants, and breweries are locally owned and operated.

Pro Tip: Leave your car parked at Pegah’s and you’re never more than a 10-minute walk from it no matter where you walk in downtown Shawnee.

AZTEC THEATRE

The first place that catches your eye when you drive into downtown Shawnee is the brightly painted Aztec Theatre (11119 Johnson Dr.). The Spanish Mission-style theater was built in 1927 and eventually closed in 1974. But that’s hardly the end of its story.

Thanks to the vision and hard work of three partners, the Aztec Theatre is fully restored and open to the public. It hosts live acts from bands to comedians and open-mic performances to special events. Looking at it from the street, it’s an eye-catching showpiece with a massive marque.

Inside, every detail of the building’s design from the tin tile ceiling to the illuminated flooring screams Art Deco design. The theatre’s lighting is worthy of an Academy Award. Neon lights and backlit sconces give it a retro vibe.

I loved the thoughtful design details added during the renovations. Make sure you stand in the lobby and look down. A surprise awaits.

During live shows Thursday-Saturday, a food truck is often parked outside in front of the theatre. To view the upcoming line-up of food trucks, check the schedule.

Patrons can enjoy full bar service in the lobby during concerts Friday-Sunday. Never miss an upcoming show by bookmarking the event calendar. The day of my visit, the Aztec Theatre was celebrating a sold-out show, Four Fried Chickens and a Coke.

I had the pleasure of getting a behind-the-scenes tour of the theatre’s balcony and green room, a space used by touring musicians. Before and after performances, band members can kick back and relax in the upstairs lounge. Do you recognize any of the signatures below scribbled across the wall?

For more event information or to see the theatre’s latest announcements, follow them on Facebook.

LUNCH

OLD SHAWNEE PIZZA

The residents in town hold Old Shawnee Pizza (6000 Roger Rd.) in high regard. After a few bites into my pizza, it was clear why they rave about it.

Did I eat the entire pizza? You know it. To be honest, it was a personal pan pizza, but I didn’t leave behind a crumb. I ordered the Tuscany Chicken Pizza made with white sauce. The thin crust was crispy just the way I like it.

Old Shawnee Pizza has a long history of serving slices. They got their start making pies and selling them out of a house in 1969. Since then, they’ve had their pizza recognized in Pizza Magazine, the industry’s authority on pies.

Customers also visit the quaint restaurant for sandwiches and salads. The house salad was made with pepperoni, more pizza cheese, bacon bits, and came with a squeeze bottle of green garlic dressing that was so good.

Between shopping downtown and touring breweries, Old Shawnee Pizza makes for an excellent lunch stop. Seat yourself and a friendly server will be right with you. If you’re unsure what specialty pizza to order, ask about the Famous Crab Rangoon Pizza.

SHOPPING

One of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday is to shop at locally-owned stores. Whatever you’re in search of, you’ll find it in downtown Shawnee.

I HEART LOCAL

This boutique is the ultimate place to shop locally. Over 20 Kansas City local vendors and artisans sell their creations at I Heart Local (10919 Johnson Dr.). Much of the inventory appeals to locals or KC sports fans, they also carry an assortment of gifts that anyone would adore.

Bath products, hair accessories, jewelry, kitchen towels, and original art – it’s one-stop shopping for those looking for a gift for themself or their bestie. The icing on the cake? For every dollar you spend at a locally owned business, a large portion of it stays in the community. Check the store’s hours here.

THE DOLL CRADLE

A family-owned and operated business. The Doll Cradle (10910 Johnson Dr.) is where you go if you’re shopping for a gift for a young girl. The shop is stocked with dolls of every size and style for the little princesses in your life. Perhaps you’re in search of doll clothes or accessories? They have what you’re looking for and then some. The shop also serves as a doll hospital if you need a family keepsake restored.

Check the store’s hours or make an appointment to see the doll doctor by viewing the Facebook page.

SHANANIGANS

Make sure you have a sense of humor before entering ShananiGans (11006 Johnson Dr.). The store is stocked with inventory sure to make you laugh. From drinking glasses and comical socks to greeting cards and t-shirts, nearly everything in the store has a funny saying written on it. Make your way to the rear of the store to discover a massive amount of Kansas City Chiefs fans’ apparel.

Think of your favorite TV show. They have a hoodie or hat with your favorite actor on it. I mean, who doesn’t need a candle that reads, “Besties: Smells like petty gossip and a lot of venting. So drink up buttercup. ‘Cuz we’re not doing this sober.”? Ha!

Check out the store’s hours and latest inventory here.

BREWERIES

TRANSPORT BREWERY

With an afternoon of shopping behind you, it’s time to enjoy a pint of beer…or two…or a flight. I won’t judge you.

Transport Brewery (1113 Johnson Dr.) was opened in 2019 after two friends decided they wanted to share a beer with the community they loved. Once they settled on the location, a historic building, they went to work renovating the space. A labor of love, they added a tasting room and designed a converted alleyway with couches for extra lounge space. It’s a cool space – ask about the hidden cellar.

During my private tour, I learned that the owners always wanted to serve a variety of beer. Nearly a dozen taps line the wall behind the bar consisting of flagship beers and collaborations with other breweries. I enjoyed a flight featuring five beers ranging in flavors and ABV strengths. Top Traveler, a New Zealand IPA, took the award for the best beer in the line-up.

To view their current beer menu, click this link.

One of the coolest things I noticed while sipping on suds at Transport Brewery was the chalkboard near the bar with tally marks scribbled on it. Each mark represented a beer bought for an active military service person or veteran. You can buy them a beer to be redeemed later.

To check the brewery’s hours and view the upcoming food truck schedule, head over to their website for details.

SERVAES BREWING COMPANY

Pronounced like “service,” Servaes Brewing Company (109201 Johnson Dr.) attracts craft beer drinkers who hunt down non-traditional flavors like Purple Sweet Potato Pineapple, Like Butterflies Banana Cream Pie, or JOCO Loco Cucumber Lime Gose. They’re not afraid to push the envelope.

Individual tasters are $3, but a flight of tasters is the way to go. Most patrons seemed to agree as nearly everyone had a board at their table and a flight card. A continuous rotation of beer keeps regulars coming back for more.

Saevaes Brewing Company is the first Kansas brewery owned and operated by a female head brewer. They earned my respect for the process, unapologetic beer flavors, and inviting tasting room.

Open Tuesday-Sunday, the brewery hosts pop-up shop events, trivia nights, and the like. Visit on Wednesday nights to build a mixed four-pack or to enjoy a $5 full pour during Music Bingo. Check the website for a complete listing of events and the brewery’s hours.

ATTRACTIONS

WANDERING VINE AT THE CASTLE

What could feel more magical than drinking fine wine inside a castle? Visit Wandering Vine at the Castle (12401 Johnson Dr.) to enjoy a delicious chef-prepared meal and a wine flight. Open Wednesday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, the castle welcomes locals and tourists who are seeking a sophisticated dining experience.

The building has been a number of businesses over the years but has always remained a memorable landmark on the edge of downtown Shawnee. Today, it’s owned by Kansas City residents who have enlisted the expertise of an executive chef and sommelier to celebrate food and drink. One step inside the castle and you are transported to an exceptionally beautiful setting.

Reservations are highly recommended, however, I stopped by the castle for a wine flight during the late afternoon between meal times and was served swiftly in the bar area. I chose Reds of the World, a flight that included three pours from Portugal, Washington, and Spain ($16). Premium wine flights are $26. I loved them all.

During my chat with the owner, I discovered that Wandering Vine at the Castle is known for collaborating with and serving wine from Grace Hill Winery, a vineyard only miles from my Wichita home. She gave me a tour of the castle that included a view of the wine cellar (available for private parties) and the dining room adorned with tasteful holiday decorations.

Additionally, the castle hosts numerous events during the year that pair wine tasting with thoughtfully crafted meals. For example, the New Year’s celebration includes a five-course meal perfect for couples wanting to welcome the year in style.

During other times of the year, they serve lunch until 4pm, small plates, dinner, and brunch on Sundays. Take a look at the menus here. Are you interested in experiencing Wandering Vine at the Castle? View the website and make a reservation here.

SHAWNEE TOWN 1929

To experience what it was like to live in a farm community and step back into time, a visit to Shawnee Town 1929 (11501 W. 57th St.) makes it a reality. The 1920s living history museum includes authentic exhibits and collections of artifacts. Life in Shawnee during the 1920s was vastly different than what you see today.

People lived to be in their mid-50s, the town’s speed limit was 12 mph, and a man’s suit cost $15. Experiencing the museum and the buildings at Shawnee town 1929 bring to life what it was like to live in the area. Clothes hang from the line to dry outdoors. The six-room farmhouse replica resembles one found in Kansas.

Whether you visit with family for the day, as a part of a school field trip, or simply want to watch a demo or take a class, Shawnee Town 1929 offers visitors an immersive experience unlike what they’ll find anywhere else in the region.

A self-guided tour is $3/adult, $1/child, Children age 5 and under can enter for free. Open March through October, Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-4:30pm, it should be at the top of your list of things to do in Shawnee. Preview your visit by taking a 360-degree video tour.

PIONEER CROSSING PARK 

Drive to Pioneer Crossing Park and Statue (10406 Shawnee Mission Pkwy) to get a glimpse of artist Charles Glosin’s wagon train sculpture made from native limestone and bronze. The three-dimensional sculpture illustrates what it would have looked like to cross the prairie.

The sculpture of Dick Williams, a wagon master, was also created by Goslin. The park was dedicated as a Sesquicentennial Project during the town’s 150th birthday in 2006.

Stroll through the park between 6am and 10pm to explore the many historical markers like the one pictured above that tell the story of the Shawnee Indians and the settlers who first resided in the area. Considered one of the points of interest, Pioneer Crossing Park was built to celebrate the rich history and community spirit of the town of Shawnee.

FAMILY TREE NURSERY

I couldn’t resist stopping by Family Tree Nursery (7036 Nieman). A novice gardener and lover of holiday decor, I wanted to see what I was told was a magical display of Christmas trees. Since 1981, the garden center has supplied plants and garden tools to green thumbs. But during the holiday season, the interior of the store becomes a winter wonderland.

Themed trees adorn the showroom floor nestled closely to gift displays and baskets of holiday ornaments. Better still, Café Equinox serves a variety of drinks and locally-made pastries, so you can grab a coffee before you shop. (As of December 2021, the café was closed for renovations.)

Visiting Family Tree Nursery, especially during the holidays, is more than a shopping trip. It’s a destination that promises shoppers an experience like no other.

I look forward to returning to the store when they host the Fall Festival Event that includes live music, bites to eat, and activities for all ages. I think you’ll enjoy the visit any time of the year. View Family Tree Nursery’s hours and upcoming events schedule here.

DINNER

HEREFORD HOUSE

With hours of fun exploration behind me, I was ready to wind down and enjoy a delicious dinner at Hereford House (17244 Midland Dr.). Luckily, it was located only steps from the front door of my hotel. Original to Kansas City, the restaurant serves hand-cut, dry-aged steaks grilled to perfection. In the mood for seafood, I selected the grilled salmon, mashed potatoes, and sautéed broccoli for dinner. Why not a steak?

Trust me. The Hereford’s House steaks are beyond delicious. I’ve enjoyed them on more than one occasion while in Kansas City. Now, I can vouch for the grilled salmon flavored to perfection with a crispy crust. They have perfected surf and turf entrees.

Not one to skip dessert, I chose the crème brûlée from a star-studded line-up of classic favorites. As I devoured every bite, I reflected on my time in Shawnee.

The city touts the phrase “good starts here,” and now I understand why. From its incredible attractions to exquisite dining options, it is worthy of an overnight visit when in the Kansas City area. The award-winning town deserves the accolades it gets.

For more details about upcoming happenings in Shawnee, visit All in Shawnee’s blog page. I’m already planning a return visit to check out Drastic Measures, a cocktail bar, and Sushi Mido known for made-to-order rolls and all-you-can-eat sushi. Who wants to join me?

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: award-winning, Aztec, boutiques, brewery, castle, Christmas, concerts, creme brulee, downtown, garden center, gardening, Kansas, Kansas City, Midwest, northeast, nursery, Old Shawnee, park, pizza, salmon, sculpture, Shawnee, shop local, shopping, statue, steak, theater, theatre, winery

Lecompton, Kansas: A Charming Town With Historic Landmarks

November 23, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

One aspect of travel that motivates me to take to the road is to learn about an area’s history. Take Exit 197 from Kansas I-70 to Lecompton, Kansas and you have arrived at the Birthplace of the Civil War and the Territorial Capital of Kansas from 1855-1861.

Located between Topeka and Lawrence, the quaint town is home to a friendly community that welcomes tourists interested in learning about its impact on American history. In addition to historical buildings and tours, travelers will appreciate the downtown area for its charming small businesses.

During my visit, I was met by the town’s top historian, Paul, who took me on a guided tour of Lecompton’s landmarks and businesses. It’s not every day that your tour guide is dressed as a reenactor or as the infamous Samuel Jones, a Douglas County sheriff who helped Lecompton play a role in the Bleeding Kansas conflict. This was going to be fun.

BREAKFAST

Paul joined me at Aunt Netters Cafe (336 Elmore) as I dined on Country Fried Steak and Eggs. The restaurant is the sole gathering spot for locals and people passing through town during the breakfast and lunch hours. Known for serving homestyle food and gourmet baked goods, the place was buzzing with conversation.

The meal was scrumptious and the menu prices were reasonable for the portion sizes. If you’re passing through northeast Kansas in route to Lawrence or Bonner Springs, stop by for a plate of pancakes, biscuits and sausage gravy, or breakfast sandwich. The lunch menu is just as appetizing. (View the cafe’s hours here.)

As Paul introduced me to the history of Lecompton, he pointed out the wall decorated with the town’s history “The Lecompton Swindle”. I quickly surmised that Lecompton was a town prideful about making its mark in history dating back to its founding in 1854.

With breakfast complete, we set out on our trek through town.

EARLY DAYS

The town was originally named Bald Eagle (yes, that’s right!) but was later renamed Lecompton by a judge. It sits on the south bank of the Kansas river making it a prime place to view eagles nesting along its banks.

CONSTITUTION HALL

Dressed as the pro-slavery sheriff Samuel J. Jones, Paul led us to Constitution Hall (319 Elmore St.) directly across the street from the cafe. A visit to the town is not complete without immersing yourself in its history and this should be the first site on your self-guided tour.

Constitution Hall is listed as a National Landmark, Kansas Historic Site and was a finalist as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Built in 1856, it was the site where the Lecompton Constitution was written by pro-slavery advocates.

The famous document was rejected in the 1858 election. To learn more about how Kansas was eventually admitted to the Union as a free state on January 29, 1861, visit this website page. A copy of the actual document is on display in the hall.

The Lecompton Constitution caused a major rift between members of the Democratic Party. Word spread to the White House. You can read more about the document and the Lincoln-Douglas debates inside Constitution Hall.

Because of the conflict that took place at the site, it is said that Lecompton was the original Birthplace of the Civil War. To take a deep dive into the state’s history during this time, visit the Kansas Historical Society’s site here.

As we walked on the creaky wood floors, I learned that the hall is the oldest wood-frame building in the state still standing in its original location. The sunlight beamed through the windows. We were standing where Kansas history took place. The Kansas Supreme Court once met upstairs. Some of the artifacts on display include the box used for fake ballots, an office safe, and a land office desk owned by Daniel Boone’s grandson.

If you’d like to visit Constitution Hall, it is open to individuals and small groups Wednesday-Sunday. Adult admission is $3. I found the employee on-site to be extremely knowledgeable and willing to answer questions. I’d recommend at least 30 minutes for a tour.

If you want to visit with a large group, a courtesy call to museum staff at least two weeks in advance is appreciated. View the hall’s hours here.

LECOMPTON CITY JAIL

Sitting in the shadow of Constitution Hall is the old Lecompton City Jail (315 Elmore St.) The tiny, one-room structure was originally built by Sheriff Jones.

Of course, it was fitting that Paul had a key to the jail. He ushered me inside. After a few seconds of standing in the musty dark room, I was ready to exit. There was very little sunlit peeking through the iron window bars.

The story goes that Jones, a pro-slavery sheriff, was shot in the back by free state forces. He helped in the effort to burn down Lawrence, Kansas in 1856. His original tombstone was moved from Las Cruces, New Mexico, and sits on display in front of the jail.

TERRITORIAL CAPITAL MUSEUM

Another important stop on the tour was Territorial Capital Museum (640 E. Woodson), a towering limestone multi-story structure. Did you know that Lecompton was the state’s capital until Topeka earned the title in 1861? The 1855 legislature voted for it. The town was a bustling center for political discourse.

The museum sits on the former 13-acre Lecompton capital square district and was constructed in 1855. The budget was $50,000, but eventually, the money ran out. When antislavery legislators gained control of the territorial legislature, the location of Kansas’ capital was moved to Topeka. This action was detrimental to the town. Later, the building became known as Lane University where reportedly seventy-five co-ed students studied there.

Now, the building serves as a museum that is open to visitors who want to come inside view rooms of historical artifacts. Paul wanted me to experience history first-hand by attaching a ball and chain to my boots. The 20lb. weight, dating back to the early 1900s made by Leavenworth prisoners, was nearly impossible to walk with when attached. Other museum artifacts included Civil War weapons, documents, and an extensive collection of the town’s memorabilia.

Did you read the blog post I wrote about Quantrill’s Raid in Lawrence, Kansas? Prior to the Civil War, feuds between pro-slavery Missourians and antislavery Kansans raged erupting in Lawrence in 1863. Confederate leader William Quantrill led a band of 400 men on horseback to attack the men and teenage boys. They burned homes and businesses to the ground.

During my tour, every inch of the space was decorated with 200+ Christmas trees, an annual tradition that attracts tourists to town from November 1-January 1. Each tree was adorned with Victorian, antique, and themed ornaments. It’s well worth stopping at the museum if only to see the holiday trees, a sight to behold.

I’d recommend devoting about an hour of your time in town to tour the museum. Admission is free, but a $3 donation is kindly accepted. If you have questions about the artifacts in the cases, a volunteer is on hand to answer them for you. View the museum’s hours here.

DEMOCRATIC HEADQUARTERS

I followed Paul in my car to the Democratic Headquarters (640 E. Woodson Ave.). A simple limestone building, it was once a cabin/meeting space for the Democratic Party from 1854-1861. Men discussed political issues and planned strategies there.

In later years, it was used as a railroad pay station by the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. Today, it is maintained by the Lecompton Historical Society and houses furnishings one might have used during the pre-Civil War era. When you stand inside and look out the windows, you can almost imagine boat traffic on the river. A beautiful location, it’s not uncommon to see eagles flying in the area during fall, winter, and spring.

OTHER INTERESTING PLACES TO DISCOVER

EMPTY NESTER’S WINERY

Aside from hosting history seekers, Lecompton is home to several businesses including Empty Nester’s Winery (338 Elmore St.). Owned and operated by a husband and wife team, they serve a variety of fruit wines. Surprisingly, the wines didn’t taste as sweet as I expected. Paul and I sipped on peach wine slushes during our tour of the facility.

While Vickie prepped pumpkins for a future wine, Troy told that it takes six months from fermentation to bottling to produce a taste-worthy wine. Opened in January 2021, visitors can choose from four dry wines and 12 semi-sweet wines for a tasting flight.

When they’re not busy making wine or socializing with customers, they also make preserves, jams, and jellies available for sale in the tasting room.

Empty Nester’s Winery focuses on quality wine and excellent customer service. They host game night on Thursdays and invite a food truck to park out front on occasion. To view the winery’s hours and learn about entertaining events, view the Facebook page.

BALD EAGLE MERCANTILE

You can find anything and everything for sale at Bald Eagle Mercantile (336 Elmore St.). The search for the perfect something to bring home is a part of the fun. The shelves are stocked with timeless gifts and items you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.

Open since 2010, shoppers are greeted by Kathy and her employees with a warm smile and helped them find “goods for the journey.” It’s only appropriate that Kathy owns a store in the heart of Lecompton since she is a descendant of Albert G. Boone, one of the town’s founders. He was also a shopkeeper.

The store hosts flea market events on Elmore Street as well as Fabric Fridays. Kathy said she has plans to expand her business and bring in more sellers. Stay up-to-date on Bald Eagle Mercantile happenings here.

C&C CLOTHING/CLAYMAMA’S ART WORKSHOP

Next door to Bald Eagle Mercantile is Claymama’s Art Workshop and C&C Clothing (338 Elmore St.) store under the same roof. When the owner isn’t in the studio creating beautiful jewelry, she is greeting customers in the retail space. The store is filled with consignment clothing and apparel for women of all sizes.

Shoppers are surrounded by walls of colorful artwork and an abundance of handcrafted jewelry for sale. Rings resemble twisted metalwork. Earrings made from leather and beads dangle on display. Clay pots hold earrings and bracelets designed with care.

If you’re not able to make it to Lecompton, you can still shop the boutique online. C&C Clothing sells items live via Facebook every Thursday at 7pm. Never miss a moment of the shopping fun by following the Facebook page here.

LECOMPTON MURAL

Don’t leave town without seeing the fantastic mural painted by Perry-Lecompton High School graduate, Rick Wright. Its vibrant colors showcase symbols that represent the town’s history dating back to 1858. The Latin motto in the eagle’s grasp reads, “Born of the Popular Will.”

Completed last June, “Resilience” is a 60′ mural funded by donations to Lecompton Community Pride. Wright recently finished a painting of the former Lecompton High School, which is on display at the entrance to the building. Visit Wright’s TikTok page to watch his painting in progress.

LUNCH

NOTE: As of September 9, 2022, Kroeger Country Meats no longer operates as a retail walk-in business. The family retired. 

As our tour of Lecompton was wrapping up, Paul had one more stop for me. I followed him to a building on the edge of town, Kroeger Country Meats (505 Eisenhower Memorial Dr.).

The family-owned business was started by the father, who paid his way through college by cutting meat.

The butcher shop is well known in the county and beyond for its high-quality meats. Two generations of Kroegers run and operate the store on a daily basis, which is necessary to keep up with business. The store attracts passersby and tourists from outside of town who make special trips to Kroegers to stock up on fresh-cut meats, jerky, and bulk and link-style sausage.

Other visitors stop by to indulge in delicious burgers served fresh to order for each customer. When you visit, simply walk up to the counter meat counter and place your order. Once it’s finished, you can add burger toppings from the self-service salad bar nearby. My single cheeseburger was scrumptious. It alone was worth stopping at Kroegers to enjoy.

Serving customers since 1984, the multi-generational butcher shop uses only Boston butts to make sausage. You can expect to find new sausage varieties as they are always fine-tuning recipes.

When the butcher told me that Kroegers’ meats appeared on the chef-prepared menus within the county, including some of my favorite restaurants in Lawrence, I walked straight to the reach-in refrigerator to select frozen sausage to bring home.

Kroeger has partnerships with breweries and the beer is used in the sausage-making process. (Note: I prepared my sausage links, made with Freestate Brewing Company’s Garden Party Lager, once I returned home. They were some of the best sausages I’ve ever tasted.)  To view the store’s hours, visit the Facebook page.

Bulk style sausage $5.99/lb, Link style sausage $8.99/lb

My experience in Lecompton was a delightful one. I was sad to say goodbye to Paul and the residents of the town. As I took to the highway to head for home, I knew that I would be back. I would return with friends or family next time because they need to experience historic Lecompton “a small town with a big history.”

Did you learn something new about Kansas history? Perhaps you’ve already visited Lecompton? Share your comments below. I’d love to hear from you.

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: antiques, antislavery, artifacts, burger, butcher, butcher shop, cafe, capital, Christmas, Civil War, Constitution Hall, Democratic, eagle, jail, Kansas, Lecompton, limestone, museum, politics, Quantrill, river, sausage, Territorial Capital Museum, tombstone, trees, walking tour, wine, winery

Visiting WaKeeney, Kansas: The Christmas City of the High Plains

August 18, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

Driving into WaKeeney, I wondered why a small rural town of its size would call itself “The Christmas City of the High Plains.” Within minutes I was parked directly in front of an archway that read “North Pole.” Wooden cutouts of holiday trees and figurines sat in a courtyard surrounded by murals painted with Christmas scenes. It may have been a sweltering 99-degree summer day in Kansas, but it certainly conjured up thoughts of winter. I thought, “Why does this town love Christmas so much?”

Since 1950, the town has lived up to its nickname when local businessmen displayed a 35′ Christmas tree covered in 3,000 lights in the center of town. The tree and display are lit the Saturday after Thanksgiving and stay illuminated until New Year’s Day. Long strands of twinkling lights and fresh greenery stretch from the tree to neighboring businesses lighting up the downtown. The four-block district is illuminated in colorful lights. The Christmas tree and lighting displays are considered to be one of the largest of their kind along KS I-70 during the holiday season. Some of the decorations stay up the entire year along Main Street and inside its businesses. How many trees will you spot around town?

BREAKFAST

HOMETOWN BAKERY

WaKeeney is much more than a tourist stop along Kansas I-70 between Kansas City and Denver. The county seat of Trego County is home to hardworking residents who roll out the red carpet for visitors. WaKeeney offers travelers a place to enjoy a simpler way of life. It wasn’t long before I found myself quickly making friends with the locals at Hometown Bakery (215 N. Main St.), a busy place during breakfast.

I was craving a hearty and comforting meal. I ordered the Breakfast Plate of eggs, potatoes, and toast along with a freshly brewed coffee. I could hear the cook, who I assumed was the owner, whistling while she prepared meals in the kitchen. Townies talked about the hot weather and the quickly approaching end of summer. Hometown Bakery was the place to catch up on the town’s happenings over coffee.

LODGING

I checked myself in an Air B&B, 1909 Cottage House (510 Warren Ave.) located just off the town’s square and across from the courthouse. Having never stayed in an Air B&B, I loved it. I highly recommend booking an overnight or weekend stay at the cottage. It’s meticulously restored, spacious, thoughtfully decorated, and clean. It has all of the comforts of home. Five beds and three bathrooms provide roomy accommodations for a family visiting the area.

One delightful part of a stay at the cottage is enjoying the flower gardens that surround the property. A white picket fence corrals leaning plants and flowers – the ideal setting for enjoying the view from the front porch. It’s also relaxing place to sit and watch residents come and go about their business along Main Street until the sun goes down.

EXPLORING

TREGO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

The best way to get to know a place that you’ve dropped into for the first time is to visit the town’s museum. The Trego County Historical Society’s Museum (128 N. 13th St.) indoor collections tell the story of the residents of the area who have made an impact on the town’s success. As you walk amongst the exhibitions, you’ll see vintage clothing, household goods, medical artifacts, and items from farming on the prairie dating back to the late 1800s. I suggest starting your self-guided tour by learning more about the town and its founders. WaKeeney was named after Albert Warren and James Keeney who dreamed of a city with 80′ wide brick streets. They got their wish.

The museum’s textiles date from the early 1800s-1970s. Many of the museum’s items were donated by families in the area. Can you imagine walking the streets of WaKeeney and seeing women wearing dresses like the ones below as they headed off to church or a formal occasion?

A new addition to the Trego County Historical Museum includes a large mural depicting the life of an earlier time. Governor John P. St. John signed a proclamation to organize the county on June 21, 1879. What do you notice about the mural below that tells the story of the county?

One exhibit that the museum is continuously working hard to build is the Trego County Honor Roll that features names of residents who have served in the military. I felt a sense of patriotism as I read about the soldiers who wore the uniforms on display. The collection dates back to World War I. The artifacts in the case situated left of the honor roll wall are phenomenal.

Several tiny towns in Trego County eventually combined into one school district. The one-room schoolhouse pictured below is available for visitors to enjoy with access provided by museum employees. It was used from 1910 to the early 1960s.

Today, schools use the facility on occasion to teach historical lessons to students and for the occasional elementary school program. From floor to ceiling, the one-room schoolhouse helps visitors take a virtual walk back into time. As someone who tends to notice the details of artifacts, I couldn’t help but think about the students who must have sat at the desks. Based on my count, about about 20 students could have occupied the classroom at a time. Look at the desk in the photo below. Do you see the initials WL?

TOUR OF TREES

An interesting attraction worth noting in WaKeeney is the Tour of Trees. To further celebrate “The Christmas City of the High Plains,” WaKeeney expanded their love of the holiday by adding 22 metal Christmas trees in front of historic homes and businesses. Each tree encourages visitors to learn facts about the town or “Tree-via.” Will you find the house that belonged to the doctor who cared for Wild Bill Hickok? How about the remains of the house built by the town’s founder?

Stop by The Studio 128 (128 N. Main) to ask for an address directory to help you locate all of the trees on the tour. Like me, you may simply stumble upon them as you walk around the main square of WaKeeney. I spotted the tree below in front of my lodging accommodations at 1909 Cottage House. The trivia about the house helped me imagine the sister and brother who once occupied it. Immediately, I felt at home when thinking about the happy couples who were married in the house by Justice of the Peace, Walter Siggett. A house is always more than just a place to live. It tells a story.

TREGO COUNTY COURTHOUSE

When given the opportunity, I like to tour a town’s courthouse. The halls usually have framed photos of influential townspeople. The Trego County Courthouse (216 N. Main St.) sits in the middle of the town’s square.

Construction of the courthouse pictured below took a year to complete. The structure is made of beautiful limestone from Trego County as well as Manhattan stone. According to travelks.com, the interior design remains nearly unchanged and it remains one of the oldest Kansas courthouses in operation today. The county jail was in the basement of the courthouse until it was condemned in 1976. Now, the space is used as storage. At the time of its construction, it cost over $26,000 to build it.

The county’s growth increased once the Kansas Pacific Railroad brought jobs. Homesteaders and pioneers soon followed. I looked into the eyes of early residents in photographs on the courthouse walls and wondered what goals they saw realized for the county.

STUDIO 128

Another fun place to check out when in downtown WaKeeney is Studio 128 (128 N. Main St.). It is part art gallery and part studio space for people to use to foster their creativity. Lynelle, the owner, invites individuals and groups of all ages to experiment with paint and clay. The retail space is the perfect opportunity for shoppers to buy unique gifts and Christmas ornaments. Studio 128 hosts events ranging from holiday-themed classes to public paint nights. To plan your visit during one of the events, view the studio’s Facebook page.

Studio 128 Gallery

GIBSON’S HEALTH MART PHARMACY OLD FASHIONED SODA FOUNTAIN

I ventured across the street from Studio 128 into Gibson Health Mart Pharmacy (125 N. Main St.). The secret ingredient to WaKeeney’s charm? The people…and a delicious drink at the pharmacy’s old-fashioned soda fountain in business since 1892.

My Vanilla Cream Coke was delicious but not overly sweet. Other specialty drinks, shakes, and malts are served to customers who sit at nine barstools inside the historic building. I enjoyed learning more about the town’s residents and history while sipping on my drink. Another traveler stopped in having taken a detour from KS I-70 for the old-fashion soda fountain experience. It’s a must-visit place in Kansas and a popular place for locals and travelers to the Christmas City on the High Plains.

What drink would you order while seated at the counter? I’m told that the town’s youngest residents love the Green River, a super sweet drink. One of about forty authentic soda fountains still in operation in the state, Gibson’s includes seating for nine patrons. Thirsty? Flag down any employee who is ready to happily whip up a nostalgic drink for you. Prefer a cup of coffee? It’s only 5 cents! The pharmacy is also a great place to stock up on everyday necessities, gift items, and floral arrangements. Plan your visit around the pharmacy’s hours listed here.

SHILOH VINEYARD & WINERY

With time to spare before the dinner hour, I drove west from WaKeeney on KS I-70 to Exit 120 to M Road to get to Shiloh Vineyard & Winery (17079 M Rd.). I was told it was a popular stop for visitors to the area in search of a relaxing place to sip wine and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. A family-owned winery founded in 2008 by the Johnstons, it features a tasting room, event space, and serves as an official Harvest Host for overnight RV guests.

I was given a private tour by Kirk and Treva who told me about the property that welcomes people from all over the nation to the destination winery. The family renovated an old chicken coop into the pristine wine tasting room you see in the below photo. Salvaged materials from buildings on the property were sourced to finish the space. I would highly recommend asking for a guided tour to fully appreciate the winery. Visitors can schedule an informative tour by appointment.

Visit the tasting room to enjoy the winery’s long list of varieties, order a wine flight or ask about the Wine of the Week. A fan of dry wine, Kirk poured several varieties for me to try but it was a dry red, Noiret, that was by far my favorite selection. I’d also recommend sampling Norton and Vidal Blanc. Bottles of wine and gourmet chocolate are available for sale.

Kirk enthusiastically talked me through the notes of each wine and the story of its production. The winery is known for producing cold-hardy grapes to make dry reds, dry whites, semi-sweet whites and reds, fruit wines, and dessert varieties. All of the wine is made from the fruit the family grows on site.

A popular venue for hosting weddings, receptions, and private parties, the barn below is available for rental. A nearby patio attached to the tasting room provides outdoor seating. The winery and event spaces stay consistently busy, but they always welcome wine lovers who show up to the tasting room.

WAKEENNEY WATER PARK

The WaKeeney Water Park (716 N. 6th St.) is the ideal place to cool off from the rays of the summer sun. If your kids are begging for something fun to do, take them to the swimming pool for a day of fun. This aquatic center isn’t any ordinary city pool either. The park features two slides, lap lanes, dive boards, dump bucket, and deck sprays. Looking to lounge? The zero-depth, beach-like entry space is ideal for relaxing. Check the pool’s page for operating hours.

The WaKeeney Water Park sits adjacent to a manicured city park – one of four in town. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a covered picnic inside a pavilion or play a game of disc golf, WaKeeney’s city parks have something for everyone to enjoy at their pace. I enjoyed relaxing at the Swimming Pool Park under a canopy of shade trees. Which one will you enjoy? View all the park locations here.

EISENHOWER PARK + DOG PARK

Another park that often attracts visitors is Eisenhower Park (I-70 Exit 127). It has two distinct attractions. One is a restored Navy F-14 Tomcat Fighter Jet, which sits on display. The 62′ jet was transported to town by truck from Ohio, reassembled by volunteers, and put on exhibit as a tribute to veterans of all ages and branches of the military.

The other attraction that draws people to the area is Eisenhower Park’s newest feature, a dog park. It’s an ideal place for you and your four-legged friend to enjoy the outdoors whether you’re staying overnight in WaKeeney or taking a break from an KS I-70 road trip.

KANSAS VETERAN’S CEMETERY

Just off of Highway 40 in WaKeeney sits the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery (403 South 13th St.). It’s open to visitors year round from sunrise to sunset. During my visit, I read many of the headstones and observed that each one described the person buried there in a few poignant words or gave a message of remembrance. As the Kansas Commission of Veterans Affairs Office says, “No One is Ever Buried Alone, All are Buried with Honor.” You can tour the cemetery at your pace or request a staff-led tour. 

 

DINNER

WESTERN KANSAS SALOON & GRILL

After a busy day of exploring, I was ready to dine at Western Kansas Saloon & Grill (121 N. Main St.) for a tasty meal. Like many of the businesses in town, the restaurant is located in a historic building. A hardware store occupied the space in 1925. Now, townies gather in groups to enjoy steaks, hamburgers, pasta, and appetizers from a long menu of local favorites.

While I dined on a delicious Patty Melt, I noticed the walls and upper shelves were covered in antique lamps, signs, and farming tools. The original wood floors creaked as people walked by and the tin ceiling revealed the building’s age. Oversized paintings by a local artist hung on the walls – each one told the story of Kansas life.

My time in WaKeeney seemed to fly by preventing me from visiting several more places that I look forward to experiencing on my next visit to town. I would love to tour Castle Rock located 15 miles south and four miles east of Quinter. The area is touted for it geological treasures and is considered one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas for its 70′ rock formations and seabed fossils.

Have you spent time in WaKeeney or plan to visit? It truly is a quintessential American town. I will always have fond memories of my stay in WaKeeney.

While the town may attract curious tourists who want to visit the “North Pole,”  the charming town has so much more to offer than that. WaKeeney’s people, comfortable lodging, and the must-experience attractions make it a worthwhile stop along KS I-70.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: Air B&B, Castle Rock, cemetary, Christmas, cottage, courthouse, highway, historical museum, holiday, Kansas, KS I-70, museum, saloon, soda fountain, Trego County, veterans, vineyard, WaKeeney

How to Make a Christmas Dessert Board

December 20, 2020 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

One of the best parts of the Christmas holiday season is all of the delightful desserts! But what do you do with all of the cookies, candies, and baked goods that people give you? Before you know it, you have bags and boxes of them on your kitchen counter. A Christmas Dessert Board is the solution! A beautiful assortment of sweet treats, the board is the perfect way to bring winter cheer to any holiday happy hour or family gathering.

The brilliant part of assembling a Christmas dessert board is that it only requires opening packages and artfully arranging ingredients on a surface. Just as you would design a meat and cheese charcuterie board, you want to vary color, height, and textures as much as possible. I combined soft cocoa truffles alongside crunchy shortbread cookies and I let cinnamon gummy bears nestle up to a river of holiday popcorn.

Not sure what to include on your board? Use my list as a helpful shopping guide or gather your favorite sweet confections and just have a blast making your own desert board:

CHOCOLATE:

  • Cocoa Truffles (Trader Joe’s)
  • Chocolate Caramel Turtles (The Farris Wheel)
  • Chocolate Covered Nuts (The Nifty Nut House)
  • Chocolate M&Ms

COOKIES:

  • Decked Out Tree Cookies (Trader Joe’s)
  • Peppermint Pretzel Slims (Trader Joe’s)

NUTS:

  • Baked Cinnamon Sugar Pecans

POPCORN:

  • Jingle Pop (Kernel’s Popcorn Express)

COCOA BOMBS:

  • They were a fabulous gift from a friend, but you can find them at many bakeries and gift stores.

Other items you could include chocolate spreads, mini cupcakes, assorted berries, marshmallows, or gingerbread men cookies.  However, I should warn you about something. If you leave the dessert board on your kitchen counter, you will eat from it at EVERY passing. I highly recommend you gift this Christmas Dessert Board to someone or serve it at a party unless you don’t mind the holiday weight gain. ::laughing:: I didn’t!

Christmas is about showing kindness to others and I can’t think of a better way to bring the joy of the season to someone else than by serving them a gorgeous assortment of sweet treats! I hope you enjoy your Christmas Dessert Board as much as I had making mine.

Happy Holidays, friends!

Filed Under: Desserts, Taste Tagged With: candy, charcuterie, chocolate, Christmas, cocoa, confection, cookies, dessert, dessert board, holiday, popcorn, sweet, truffles

5 Ways I Spoil Myself + Self-Care Tips for You

March 5, 2018 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

Sometimes you have to put yourself first.

Pampering yourself is necessary to regain perspective, to boost your confidence, and to hit the reset button now and then. If that means that you spoil yourself by splurging on a night out with friends or restocking your closet with a new wardrobe, then by all means – celebrate you!

I used to do nice things for myself only when I thought I deserved it. For example, if I passed a major college exam or got a raise at work, I would convince myself I had “earned” the right to do spoil myself. As I matured, I realized that self-preservation doesn’t mean I have to justify buying a new spring wardrobe or a vacation somewhere. Giving back to yourself is a part of self-care.

Is it time for you to pay it forward to yourself?

I bet you’re like me in that you give so much of yourself to work, family, and your household that you seldom give thought to yourself and how you’re feeling. Time constraints keep so many of us from giving back to ourselves. Check out 5 Ways I Spoil Myself below and I’ll bet you discover at least one way you to pamper yourself without spending a ton of time doing it!

  1. Birthday Meal. I always treat myself to a delicious lunch at one of my favorite restaurants on my birthday. Even if I have to dine alone, because all of my favorite people are stuck at work, I’ll dine on my city’s best nachos, fattoush salad, or pizza. In my twenties, I once filled an entire table at The Mad Greek in Lawrence, Kansas with a spread of Mediterranean  favorites including a cocktail on my birthday! Why? Because I was celebrating me!
  2. StitchFix. Life is too short for me to spend another minute hating myself for having to cut through crowds at the mall to find staple clothing items. Enter…StitchFix! Every month I receive my “fix” in the mail that includes five clothing or accessories to add to my closet. I’m like a kid on Christmas when the green and white box arrives with hand-selected items from my personal stylist. If I don’t like something, I simply mail it back. It’s great!
  3. Hair Color. The first time I had an Aveda stylist color my hair and give me a scalp massage at the shampoo bowl, I was hooked. I didn’t need to spend another minute contemplating hair color options in the drugstore aisle. Now my trusted stylist colors my hair and you can see the difference. The cost of paying a professional to color my hair leaves it feeling soft and looking healthy.
  4. Flowers. Ain’t nobody got time to wait for someone else to buy them flowers! Buy them for yourself! Every month I purchase a bouquet of marked down flowers to add to our home. It makes me happy to see bright colors across the room and that level happiness is worth $5 any day.
  5. Gourmet Food. You know me, I love yummy food. So it’s no surprise that I would spoil myself by throwing some fancy cheese or a few expensive condiments into my shopping cart. Why deny yourself sushi or fresh mozzarella? Just buy it every once in a while and relish in the satisfaction of your purchase while you devour it!

You deserve to walk around in this world a happier person even if it means going the extra mile to spoil yourself. I’m not suggesting you waste your next paycheck on all of your favorite things in the name of “self-care.” Instead, select one or two activities that bring you joy and add them into your life on a regular basis. You’ll feel more delightful overall!

 

Filed Under: DIY, Lifestyle Tagged With: Aveda, bouquet, cheese, Christmas, clothes, confidence, delightful, drugstore, fix, flowers, fresh flowers, gourmet, gourmet food, Greek, hair color, happy, Kansas, Lawrence, lunch, Mediterranean, mozzarella, pamper, personal stylist, preservation, self-care, shampoo, spoil, StitchFix, stylist, sushi

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Hello! I'm Vanessa. Welcome to One Delightful Life, a blog created to add more delight to your life with delicious recipes, travel destinations, and lifestyle improvement ideas. Thanks for exploring my blog!

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