Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Leavenworth and Northeast Kansas Tourism. All opinions and photos are mine with the exception of one courtesy image. I participated in planning the travel itinerary’s points of interests.
The water moves swiftly on the Missouri River as I walk toward the same spot where explorers Lewis and Clark stood.
In Leavenworth, the first city in Kansas, history intersects with modern attractions. Visitors gain access to iconic landmarks dating back to 1854 and a host of entertaining activities, plus 28 blocks of downtown shopping.
During my return trip to Leavenworth, I was eager to take in places I had yet to discover and revisit old gems.
Use my travel guide as an itinerary for your next overnight stay in the northeastern Kansas town, a 30-minute drive from Kansas City International Airport.
Leavenworth, Kansas: An Overnight Stay Itinerary for Guaranteed Fun
Starting the Day with Breakfast
Burr Roasters
The smell of freshly roasted coffee beans permeates the air at Burr Roasters (515 Delaware Street). A short line forms at the counters as locals sip coffee and eat breakfast at nearby tables.
I arrived hungry and ordered an English muffin breakfast sandwich with a self-serve drip coffee. A daily coffee drinker, I was impressed with the medium roast’s flavor, an indicator of the quality of the roaster’s workmanship.
PRO TIP: The Burr-ow, a backroom space dedicated to reading or board gaming, is a quiet spot to work.
Exploring Scenic Nature Sports During a Morning Walk
Leavenworth Landing Park and Three Mile Creek Trail
After an early-morning caffeine pick-me-up, park the car at Leavenworth Landing Park (301 E. Esplanade Street) and explore the quarter-mile pathway along the Missouri River for an idyllic stroll.
It’s a scenic area worth exploring for its birdwatching and native treelined grounds. The path lies parallel to an active Union Pacific railway, a nod to the town’s railroad era that replaced the Missouri River’s steamboat industry.
Public art with references to pioneer life and the railroad industry dot the landscape along the Leavenworth Landing walkway.
PRO TIP: Consider walking Three Mile Creek Trail, which connects the river’s walkway to 7th Street in historic downtown Leavenworth.
Lewis and Clark Signage
If you know the story of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, then you’re familiar with their expedition to explore west of the Mississippi River from 1804-1806. The river trek led them to the Kansas City area up the Missouri River with a stop in Leavenworth.
They recorded detailed notes about the region’s landscape for President Thomas Jefferson noting what people could expect heading west. Signage overlooking the river at 2nd and Dakota Street recognizes their visit to the area.
Esplanade Street Sidewalk Path
A stroll down Espalande Street helps you fully immerse in Leavenworth’s Victorian period. Stretching from Bob Dougherty Memorial Park to Leavenworth Landing Park, the sidewalk path offers views of the historic homes and the Missouri River.
Downtown Murals and the Statue Safari
Leavenworth’s downtown area consists of a large concentration of murals and public art.
Perhaps the most eye-catching, Explore Leavenworth Mural serves as an anchor to kick off a mural walk at 416 Cherokee Street. Artist Leigh Coffman’s depiction of the town’s events is a glimpse into its past.
It’s the tucked-away murals that excite me the most. Keep your eyes peeled for smaller paintings on doors on various buildings downtown.
My self-guided tour led me down a path across from Leavenworth City Hall (100 N. 5th Street), where I spotted benches and signage honoring self-made women who impacted Leavenworth’s history, such as National American Woman Suffrage Association leader Susan B. Anthony and singer Melissa Etheridge.
Click here to access the Mural and Statue Safari tour.
Listening to Audio Tour at Historic Walk Kiosks
History comes alive while listening to an audio tour in downtown Leavenworth. Kiosks located in front of points of interest feature QR codes. Use your mobile phone’s camera to hover over the QR code and hear the stories of the people and places that made Leavenworth a notable northeastern Kansas town.
Kiosks, like the one pictured above, are part of 21 Historic Wayside Tour stops. Access this map before walking or driving the tour. Call (913) 745-3222 plus stop # to listen at each kiosk.
Taking a Mid-Day Break for Lunch
The Suburban
Savor the flavor of freshly prepared meals on a tranquil patio surrounded by lush plants and trees at The Suburban (402 S. 20th Street). Locals highly recommended that I dine at the off-the-beaten-path restaurant. I stepped onto the back patio, and it was easy to see why.
I dined on deviled eggs with bacon and a chicken cobb salad to the beat of Jamaican music while watching hosta leaves sway.
Between sips of iced tea, I noticed the hostess lead lunchtime diners to patio tables to enjoy the scenery, which resembled a nicely designed backyard landscape.
PRO TIP: An outdoor patio bar with TVs is the ideal place to watch a game.
Exploring a Local History Museum
National Fred Harvey Museum
The story of Fred Harvey is intriguing, and as someone who works in tourism, I appreciate how he grew the restaurant, hotel, and passenger train hospitality industries. His family home, the National Fred Harvey Museum (620 Olive Street) is worthy of a guided tour.
During my walk-thru of the three-story home, a volunteer tour guide shared details about Harvey’s entrepreneurial spirit, which included buying land near Florence, Kansas, where he raised livestock and grew vegetables.
Harvey not only spearheaded the restaurant and hotel industry, but he also transported refrigerated food in iced-packed train cars headed west.
The Harvey family bought the home in 1891, where he lived with his wife and five kids until he died in an upstairs bedroom from cancer in 1901.
Volunteers restore the family residence when not providing tours. Call the museum at (813) 682-7949 to schedule one.
PRO TIP: Make sure to visit the one-time carriage house to sign the guest book and view Harvey memorabilia donated by collectors. Inquire about Leavenworth Historical Museum Association’s annual fundraiser, A Taste of Leavenworth, in early September, an event that supports the home’s renovation costs.
Shopping for Great Finds
Leavenworth Antique Mall
Leavenworth Antique Mall (505 Delaware Street) contains perhaps the most extensive collection of antiques under one roof in Kansas. The multi-floor building includes countless booths stocked by antique-loving individuals displaying everything from vintage tools to retro fashions.
If you love old collectibles, you could spend hours perusing the mall while listening to oldies music play overhead. The friendly employee at the front desk is happy to answer questions about refurbishing relics.
CJ Gift Co.
Stepping into CJ Gift Co. (430 Delaware Street) is like visiting an old friend. The owner’s familiar smile and the store’s curated displays, designed for Kansas enthusiasts, make every visit a delight.
Of course, you can always spot something delightful for the home when you’re ready to swap out your seasonal decor. From garden flags to great-smelling candles, CJ Gift Co. satisfies shoppers on a mission to beautify their space.
PRO TIP: Walk to the store’s back corner to view clearance items.
Soul Supply & Hardware
Faith-based gifts are the focus of Soul Supply & Hardware (704 Cherokee Street); however, the store’s inventory includes presents for all ages and any occasion.
Expecting parents and grandparents will appreciate the owner’s selection of kid-loving plush toys. Seasonal items, bath products, and top-selling Leavenworth t-shirts round-out the front-of-store inventory.
Reunions Antiques
For nearly two decades, Reunions Antiques’ (414 Delaware Street) relics from the past have attracted shoppers hoping to add furniture or primitive-style antiques to their collection.
The owner greeted me as he worked to display new arrivals meticulously. And if you’re searching for old furniture, his collection will exceed your expectations.
PRO TIP: The store is also home to 5th Avenue Frames. Ask them to custom frame artwork, photography, or prints.
Queens Pantry Teas
Sometimes, a cup of hot tea is just what you need, and Queens Pantry Teas (510 Delaware Street) offers samples while you shop. You will discover the Midwest’s largest selection of loose-leaf teas, British goods, and tea cups aplenty.
Consider creating a gift basket for someone while shopping for yourself. Whether one loves hot tea or cold brew, Queen’s Pantry Teas is the place to shop.
Candle Queen Candles Gift Boutique
As the name implies, Candle Queen Candles Gift Boutique (500 Shawnee Street) is a brightly-colored store selling hand-poured candles, melts, and whimsical gifts.
Imagine jarred candles with crystals protruding from them. Nearby, the shelving displays candles in scents like Margarita Slushie and Pearberry, with dried fruit hanging from twine. Expect the unexpected.
PRO TIP: Plan accordingly. The store is open on Saturdays and for special events.
Artistic Works by Lu
At first glance, Artistic Works by Lu (221 Delaware Street) appears to be a handcrafted jewelry store, but the shop also carries an extensive selection of on-trend fashions with “urban soul.”
The owner, who was busily crafting jewelry in a studio, greeted me, as did her helpful staff. I perused the store, admiring an endless boho chic apparel and jewelry inventory.
Artistic Works by Lu is where women shop when they need a go-to outfit for the weekend or a festival-ready ensemble.
Season 7 Boutique
Next door, Season 7 Boutique (208 Delaware Street) carries clothing and accessories for female dressers in search of on-trend fashions. Always stocked with Kansas City-themed shirts and jewelry, you’re bound to buy something to wear on game day.
The owners, a mother-daughter duo, carry the latest fashions for the season on display at the front of the store.
PRO TIP: Preview new merchandise when the owners go live on Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m. via Facebook and Instagram.
Popcorn Pit Stop
Who can resist a bag of fresh gourmet popcorn, especially when it’s made with tasty flavorings? At Popcorn Pit Stop (1116 N. Broadway), you can purchase ready-to-eat popcorn to curb cravings.
If the thought of enjoying the salty goodness of popcorn with the sweet flavor of your favorite candy bar excites you, stop by Popcorn Pit Stop for a grab-and-go bag.
Jet Produce and Meats
Go to the source, Jet Produce and Meats (26617 Tonganoxie Road), to purchase locally grown and pasture-raised meat. Also featuring an elaborate outdoor garden house with plants for sale during the spring and summer, Jet Produce and Meats grows a wide variety of vegetables.
Peruse the outdoor garden houses to shop for plants and flowering hanging baskets before entering inside the store for refrigerated food items. Travelers without coolers will appreciate jarred foods and bagged dry goods.
Enjoying Evening Entertainment
The Retro-cade
If you think about your favorite video game, can you hear the sound of its theme song? The Retro-cade (421 Delaware Street) is a total fun zone for those who want to pay a flat fee to play unlimited games.
The sounds of Space Invaders and Mortal Kombat resonate through the arcade, open Thursday-Saturday. It’s an excellent place for all ages to enjoy indoor entertainment in a nostalgic setting.
Celebrating with Friends Over Dinner & Drinks
Leavenworth Heritage Center
Perhaps the most memorable experience during my return visit to town was enjoying dinner and a show at Leavenworth Heritage Center (109 Delaware Street). The ticketed event featured Legends of the Opry with Melissa & Company, a country music cover band.
A take on Nashville’s variety show, The Grand Ole Opry, band members and guest singers played up the theatrics, dressing in comical wigs and costumes. At one point, Elvis was bringing dancers to their feet.
The reservation-required dinner and a show were entertaining, and the best part of the evening was getting to know the guests at our shared table, who welcomed me like new friends. Three hours of fun flew by.
PRO TIP: Check the live entertainment page for upcoming events and ticket information.
Willcott Brewing Company & Taproom
As the day winds to an end, Willcott Brewing Company & Taproom (600 Cherokee Street) is the ideal place for a Happy Hour cold one. I’ve imbibed at their Holton location and found the beer and the atmosphere equally pleasing at this location.
While I appreciated the tasting sample of Four Sisters Double IPA, I decided to drink a pint of 1874 Turkey Red Wit while enjoying the cool air conditioning with view of the bar’s TV.
PRO TIP: The brewery doesn’t serve food. So, if you’re hungry, buy $5 bagged pretzels or arrive on Tuesday for food truck fare.
11Worth Station BrewHouse
11Worth Station BrewHouse (305 Cherokee Street) is where craft beer lovers will find numerous taps with Kansas beers available.
An $11 flight of four 5-ounce pours made it easy for me to sample several beers, and ultimately, my favorite one was Rockcreek Brewing Company’s Cabin Fever Reliever, a hazy IPA.
If you don’t drink beer, they have a full bar for cocktails of your choice, wine, and non-alcoholic drink options.
Checking Into Lodging for a Good Night’s Sleep
Fairfield Inn & Suites Leavenworth
Out-of-towners will be glad they chose Fairfield Inn & Suites Leavenworth, (1101 N. 4th Street) located minutes away by car from downtown. Marriott Bonvoy members, like myself, can expect a lobby with modern-style furnishings and prompt customer service upon arrival.
My King Suite home-life feel helped me unwind after a fun day of exploring. In the morning, I checked emails on my laptop using high-speed internet from a in-room workstation before enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast in the lobby.
I’m glad I returned to explore what makes Leavenworth a repeatable vacation destination. I hope you discover its delightful places using this guide and my 2o21 write-up, The Top Attractions in Leavenworth, Kansas, for bonus travel recommendations.
When traveling in the area, Discover Endless Adventures in Bonner Springs or Explore the Historic Charm of Atchison.
Upon arrival, the town rolls out the red carpet and welcomes you. Located a short drive from Wichita, Pratt offers many must-see places to explore and dine. A large part of the appeal of visiting Pratt is getting to know its residents as you stroll in and out of local businesses. They treat you like they’ve known you for years.
From unique boutiques and Western wear shops to art museums and restaurants, there is more than enough fun to be had in a day.
The space is decorated with eclectic furniture, ornate chandeliers, and colorful artwork reminiscent of a big-city coffee shop. N’Cahoots rear lounge will remind you of the coffee shop from the TV show Friends.
A repeat customer, I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve ordered, no matter the hour of the day. You can’t go wrong with a frothy vanilla latte or hot chai tea. Hungry? Order a slice of delicious quiche or a breakfast sandwich on a biscuit for an indulgent early-morning meal.
And if you’re craving a midday sweet treat, order a root beer float served in a towering tumbler glass with double scoops of vanilla ice cream.
While I didn’t see the lunch or dinner menu, the diner is open until 8 p.m. and serves bottled beer.
PRO TIP: Leave room for a slice of pie. Check the dry-erase board for nearly a dozen available flavors. Don’t like pie? Ask about homemade cinnamon rolls.
It’s the best place to eat lunch in town while watching sports or chatting with friends. Every inch of the restaurant was decked out in memorabilia and the sports-themed Tiffany lamps.
The Japanese-inspired menu features sushi rolls, bento boxes, hibachi, and yakisoba noodle bowls. My order of edamame and Rainbow Roll was satisfying; however, I regret not ordering another sushi roll for a larger dinner meal.
PRO TIP: Customers are expected to pay at the counter.
The owners prepare burgers, chicken tenders, and loaded burger bowls at a permanent food-truck spot. Patio tables are nearby, but it was a windy day, so I chose to dine in my car.
A married couple has been serving pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and hot link sandwiches and dinners to hungry barbecue fans since 2017. Her homemade cole slaw is scrumptious.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss the Clearance shelves at the back of the store for deep discounts on seasonal merchandise.
Step up to the beauty bar and ask about their extensive line of LipSense by SeneGence while learning about upcoming 
Carrying sizes small through extra-large, the inventory is suited for women who prefer to dress up a casual outfit with patchwork blouses or Western-themed pieces paired with a statement necklace. The owner’s style is country-meets-Southwestern chic, which is reflected in the store’s inventory.
PRO TIP: Not able to shop at the retail store? 
The owner stocks a variety of merchandise, from essential oils and seasonal decorations to collegiate gifts and Jelly Cats products.
PRO TIP: 
PRO TIP: Plan your visit early in the day to enjoy the breakfast or lunch menu at its Garden Cafe.
An avid art museum-goer, I was impressed by the museum’s sophistication and knowledgeable staff. During my most recent visit, I admired Kansas landscape photography shot by WenDee Rowe and the handiwork of the sculptor artist Linda Fleming.
The corridor exhibit featuring Rachel Hirt’s stunning paintings of nature inspired me to walk outside to Joe’s Garden and courtyard, where an ever-evolving installation of statues invites viewing. The museum encourages guests to bring a lunch and enjoy it outdoors.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the retail gift store to shop for artists’ pottery, prints, and gift items. Check the 
The Pratt Army Air Field (P.A.A.F.) was constructed in 1943 and included a hangar, barracks, a dental clinic, a chapel, a theater, a school, and other buildings for enlisted military personnel. Military crews worked arduously to assemble B-29s. P.A.F.F. trained the first B-29 group to see active service overseas.
My self-guided tour of the B-29 Museum sparked my curiosity about how Pratt’s military base operated and the B-29’s impact on the war effort. The main gallery’s walls are covered in informational displays, and glass cases house airmen’s personal artifacts.
The space is more or less organized chronologically, with bonus displays honoring female aviation workers and pilots, as well as Kansans who served in the P.A.A.F.
I recommend watching an introductory film in the cinema before exploring the museum. I especially admired the Parachute Room’s collection of B29 artifacts, including a radial engine.
Later, I walked the one-mile paved path leading to the B-29 All Veterans Memorial. The retired airfield was quiet, as I stopped periodically to read signage detailing where airfield buildings once stood.
The B29 All Veterans Memorial honors those who served, including Lt. Col. Earl Ellis, a Pratt High School graduate. He gave his life while seeking additional information on the Japanese military’s intentions about Pearl Harbor.
My mouth dropped in awe at the quality of the exhibits’ design, the artifacts documenting its Native American history in the Hartman Gallery, and the replica buildings.
This isn’t a museum with dusty, old relics and framed documents. It’s an immersive experience you can feel (touch the meteorite!), hear (listen to the old-timey music!), and see (use the museum’s touchscreen video and QR codes!).
I had about an hour for a self-guided tour, but could easily have spent another hour exploring the museum and visiting with its enthusiastic volunteers.
PRO TIP: The museum is decorated for the holidays, so planning a visit near Christmas is recommended.
Turtles swam excitedly as I approached the glass. A catfish locked eyes with me. In the amphibians room, I kept a respectful distance while observing them.
The nature center is an ideal stop for families because it often hosts events for all ages on nature-themed holidays, like World Wildlife Day. Who’s ready for a bird walk?
Locals mingled pre-show before taking their seats at VIP Tables and in the balcony, pausing to order drinks and popcorn at the concessions stand. Once the music started, they got up and danced in their cowboy boots as the band sang cover songs.
Locals know to keep an eye on the rink’s 
During the 1950s, high school students painted the temperature labels on the towers. Now, the water towers are a great place to savor a picnic lunch, surrounded by seasonal flowers and newly planted trees.
The 33-acre complex consists of four diamond turf fields for tournament play. Sports fans travel to Green Sports Complex to watch local, state, and national games.
At first glance, I thought the course was well-maintained for golfers pulling a cart. Tee boxes are paved, and if you’re traveling with a dog, they’re allowed to tag along.
Not only does it offer guests amenities such as an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a hot breakfast, but the lobby lounge is designed to promote relaxation with oversized couches and travel reading materials. I saw a group of travelers getting to know one another over conversation in the dining area.
My room was a King Bed Suite, Non-Smoking, with like-home amenities and a complimentary sunrise view. In the morning, the free breakfast included hot and cold menu items, and free popcorn was available mid-day.
PRO TIP: Traveling with a dog? The hotel accepts pets for a one-time $75 fee.
Pratt offers so much to do and see that it is hard to fit a full itinerary into an afternoon. Plus, the town’s sporting events, concerts, the 
