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courthouse

The Heart of Iowa: Discover Charming Madison County

September 11, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

 Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Madison County, Iowa Chamber & Welcome Center. All opinions and photos are mine. 

If you’re seeking a relaxing weekend in a picturesque destination that evokes feelings of nostalgia, go to Madison County, Iowa.

Winterset, Iowa The region is best known for its covered bridges and awe-inspiring views—towns like Winterset, St. Charles, and nearby Orient offer incredible dining, one-of-a-kind shopping, and unequaled museums.

Roseman BridgeSpending a weekend exploring Madison County will make you fall in love with it like I did.

DAY 1

LUNCH: MEMORIES ON 1ST AVENUE – TEA ROOM & TIMELESS TREASURES

One of the best places to spend your lunch hour is at Memories on 1st Avenue – Team Room & Timeless Treasures (111 S. 1st Avenue, Winterset) for a scratch-made meal in a unique setting.

Tea Room Menu
The Italian Beef sandwich and the Soup of the Day

We entered the cozy restaurant via a door located just below street level, and to my delight, each table was adorned with beautiful china and glassware. The owner (who doubles as the chef!) prepares sandwiches, soup, quiche, and fresh salads.

Tea Room Winterset IowaI thought the Reuben on marble rye bread, a cup of homemade Strawberry Soup, and a glass of iced raspberry tea was divine. Sharing a towering lemon meringue pie, we chatted about Winterset and the town’s history.

Tea Room Dining PRO TIP:  The eatery is open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., with limited seating. Small groups should reserve a table in advance. Add a few minutes of extra time to your lunch to peruse the restaurant’s displayed antiques – many of which are for sale.

CITY PARK

A leisurely tour of City Park (South St and S 9th St, Winterset) must be part of your travel plans when in the area. The 76-acre natural oasis features a full-service campground, playgrounds, and historic structures to explore on foot.

Clark TowerA self-guided tour of Clark Tower was, by far, my favorite discovery. We traversed a narrow, one-mile road by car to the top of a curvy hill en route to it. Built in 1926 in honor of early settlers, the limestone landmark resembles something from a fairy tale.

If you’re comfortable with heights, climb the 25-foot Clark Tower for a 360-degree Middle River Valley view.

Chainsaw SculptureAnother park feature not to be missed includes the whimsical chainsaw sculptures by Iowa artist Gary Keenan. The English Hedge Maze leads to a sundial, and an adjacent bocce ball court invites parkers to play a game.Hedge MazeNearby Bennett Cabin and Cutler-Donahue Bridge, each built in the 1800s, are photo-worthy attractions.Old CabinSeek out the stone bridge for another photo moment. It’s the location where Robert and Francesca’s movie scene was filmed.

Stone BridgePRO TIP: Traveling with kids? Prepare to explore the park and its play features for at least an hour.

CUTLER-DONAHOE BRIDGE

Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge is the closest to downtown Winterset, a short drive by car. It was built in 1870 by Eli Cox (the same man who constructed the Covered Bridge House) and was moved to Winterset’s City Park in 1970.

Covered Bridge Madison County City ParkSpanning 79 feet, the bridge is within walking distance of the road that winds through the park. You’ll appreciate the stone bridge, also nearby, the site of the movie’s film scene where Robert and Francesca enjoy a picnic.

HOLLIWELL BRIDGE

Holliwell Bridge is the longest of the six original, covered bridges at 122 feet. Built in 1880 by Harvey P. Jones and George K. Foster, it is located southeast of Winterset.

It appears in the movie The Bridges of Madison County when Francesca meets Robert there before they return to her home for dinner.

Holliwell Bridge Madison County IowaParking is available nearby, and the path to the bridge is easy to navigate.

COVERED BRIDGES WINERY

Our visit to Covered Bridges Winery (2207 170th Trail, Winterset), four miles outside of town, was a delightful one. I hope you add to our itinerary.

We had the pleasure of sitting with winemaker Kevin Fifo to sip award-winning vino while learning how the business evolved from making wine at home to a sophisticated operation using 100% Iowa grapes.

Wine TastingAfter sampling red and white drier varieties, we ultimately bought a bottle of LaCresent 2021 (2017 Mid-American Wine Competition Silver winner) to bring home.

The tasting room offered six white, six red, and two rosé wines to select from for a multi-sample tasting experience.Wine AwardsWhether you drop in for a glass of wine in the tasting room or on the patio overlooking the valley, I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. They don’t push wine on you to try, and instead serve you “whichever wine you like to drink.”

Covered Bridges Winery
While inside the tasting room, take note of the artwork on the walls created by locals. Even the outline of the picture window resembles a covered bridge.

PRO TIP: A guided tour and tasting takes about two hours. If you visit during harvest, you may get to sample fresh juice from the presser. View the Facebook page for music events, weather permitting.

WINTERSET CIDERY

There must be something magical in the Iowa soil because it’s also known for producing delicious apples. In fact, the Red Delicious variety, originally named Hawkeye, was discovered in Iowa.

Winterset CideryAt Winterset Cidery (1638 Hwy 169, Winterset), apple lovers can sip hard cider from dry to sweet inside a tasting room with floor-to-ceiling orchard views. Free popcorn and available board games promise a good time.Winterset CideryDuring our visit, we chose to sit on the front porch to watch as summer rainstorm clouds developed. I sipped Lime Habanero Hard Cider, which finished sweet and sampled another favorite, John Wayne Bone Dry Hard Cider. Each one tasted crisp with authentic flavor.

Winterset Cidery InteriorPRO TIP: Check the Facebook page to plan your visit during the apple-picking season or to check for events like Thursday Trivia or live music performances.

HOGBACK BRIDGE

After enjoying a glass of wine or cider, drive southwest to Hogback Bridge (follow the signs!) on your way back to Winterset.

At 97 feet, the awe-inspiring bridge was built in 1884 and sits in its original location. The Hogback was named for the Hogback Ridge at the valley’s west end (its convex curve resembles the curve of a hog’s back).

Hogback BridgeYou’ll appreciate the scenic view at this one. Like each covered bridge in the county, it was renovated in the 1990s to maintain its beauty.

CEDAR BRIDGE

You should drive to nearby Cedar Bridge while exploring Hogback Bridge since they are close in distance. The covered bridge, built in 1883, is the same bridge that appears on the cover of the book The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller.

Cedar BridgeUnfortunately, the bridge fell victim to arson twice in recent years and had to be reconstructed. The replica reminds us of the sentiment shared by the movie’s characters portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep.

JOHN WAYNE BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM

Madison County is the site of film productions and produced a Hollywood star, John Wayne. Born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, at home, John Wayne was the oldest boy of two to parents Clyde and Mary.John Wayne BirthplaceHe lived in Winterset until age seven. As a boy, he walked about town with his brother and dog, Duke. Eventually taking on the nickname Duke, the family moved to California in 1914. The actor starred in 170 films.John Wayne MuseumJohn Wayne Birthplace & Museum (205 S. John Wayne Drive, Winterset) allows the actor’s fans to tour his childhood home and pursue film artifacts and items from his collection.

John Wayne ArtifactsThe first stop? The museum’s theater room for a short film highlighting his achievements. Next, take a self-guided tour of each of the two galleries.John Wayne Museum TheaterI was curious about the actor’s collection of coffee mugs – he had a keepsake mug made for each movie. Handwritten letters, a car, clothing, and an address book were some of the personal items included in the collection.

coffee mugsPRO TIP: I recommend devoting at least an hour to touring the birthplace home and museum if you like to read each panel. Review the John Wayne In Iowa map showing the family’s moves across the state.

WINTERSET PUBLIC LIBRARY

As a writer, I feel at home in a library. We stopped at Winterset Public Library (123 N. 2nd St.) to take a relaxing break while admiring the work of young artists on display.Community GardenI was impressed to find a basket of free produce available near the checkout counter, which I assumed came from the community garden behind the library outside.

PRO TIP: Often the site of entertaining events, the library’s Facebook page is an excellent resource in preparation for your visit.

MONUMENTAL PARK

Next to the library, Monumental Park houses one of the earliest Civil War monuments in Iowa, a 14-foot marble pillar inscribed on each side. Four black cannons, gifted to Madison County in 1878, surround its base.Monumental ParkModern benches with historical references were added to the park. I enjoyed learning about how George Washington Carver wandered into Winterset, where he lived and worked for two years.George Washington Carver

MURALS & FREEDOM ROCK

The Madison County Freedom Rock (half a block east of John Wayne Birthplace and Museum) is the 64th painted rock in the state’s collection. Painted by Ray Sorenson, it showcases the Quilts of Valor Foundation headquartered in Winterset.Freedom RockAn art alley with interactive murals is adjacent to the Madison County Courthouse. Artists James Navarro and Katie Jensen intended visitors to discover ways to pose with the paintings.

Winterset Art Alley

DINNER: THE DRIFT

I can’t think of a better place to enjoy dinner after exploring Madison County than The Drift (112 N. 1st St, Winterset). The taproom serves flatbreads, sandwiches, and wraps using farm-to-table ingredients.Charcuterie Board at The DriftWe shared a charcuterie board while sipping craft beers as a prelude to dinner. The Drift Salad and Roast Beef Panini served on locally sourced bread made the dining experience exceptional.Salad at The DriftPRO TIP: If you’re not a craft beer drinker (21 Iowa beers on tap!), ask about wine and mead selections. Non-alcoholic beers are an option.

COVERED BRIDGE HOUSE

Our stay at Covered Bridge House changed my life. It made me slow down and remember that delightful moments can be as simple as enjoying a sunset and listening to cicadas buzz on a summer evening.SunsetA restored 1908 country home turned Airbnb, the three-bedroom, two-bath home is incredibly well-maintained and modernized to accommodate couples or families seeking a weekend of solitude.

Living RoomA short drive from dining, shopping, and museums in Winterset, it was perfect for us. We watched the movie The Bridges Over Madison County at night while drinking champagne in a room surrounded by antiques and framed artwork.

House StairsThe charming home had every comfort we wanted, and to be honest, I loved the experience so much that I wished the house was for sale so we could buy it.

KitchenThe creak of the original wood floors.The sunset view from the porch. I loved our stay, as will you.

DAY 2

BREAKFAST: THE BAKERY UNLIMITED

When everyone in town tells you to order an apple fritter at The Bakery Unlimited (119 N. John Wayne Dr., Winterset), you go. Also known for its daily specials, cracked wheat bread, and delectable bagels, the local hangout draws an early morning crowd.Apple Fritter

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

While I only had time to stop in some of the stores in Winterset, I discovered gems near the courthouse square and a short walk from it.Downtown

DUTCH COUNTRY GENERAL STORE

Dutch Country General Store (72 E. Court Ave., Winterset) is a retail space selling little of everything.General StoreFrom fresh groceries to retro candy and sodas to home decor and toys, you’ll find something you can’t leave the store without. I purchased a scented candle, Fresh Cut Grass.Groceries

ROW YOUR GOAT

Row Your Goat (110 W. Court Ave., Winterset) is a must-visit shop specializing in Iowa-made goods and groceries. I found it hard to resist purchasing handmade soap. Their inventory of candles, artwork, framed photography, and gift items is irresistible.Row Your Goat

BRICK ROAD BOOKS

A reader’s dream, Brick Road Books’s (105 W. Court Ave., Winterset) front retail area is stocked with new fiction and non-fiction releases, while the rear of the store contains used books.

Brick Road BooksPRO TIP: Kids get a free used book when they visit, and the monthly book club selections keep shoppers returning for new reads.

WHOMPY BEAR BOUTIQUE

Owned and operated by a mom-turned-entrepreneur, Whompy Bear Boutique (114 N. 1st Ave., Winterset) is the newest addition to Winterset’s shopping scene.Whompy Bear BoutiqueThe clothing, shoes, and accessories for sale are on-trend, including the latest seasonal fashions. The inviting store features a stroller parking zone and interactive spaces for kiddos, such as a push-and-listen station (are those bees buzzing?) and a toy treasure box.

HARVEST CREEK

Harvest Creek(108 N. 1st Ave.) is unlike any other store you may have seen. The shop is filled floor-to-ceiling with antiques, oddities, home decor, candles, and more.Harvest CreekIn preparation for fall, I noticed an abundance of witchy decor items; however, they may sell similar whimsical gifts year-round.

PINE CREEK, LTD

At Pine Creek, Ltd. (110 N. 1st Ave., Winterset), you’re likely to find a gift for yourself or someone else since the artfully decorated shop is filled with items for one’s home, from pillows and picture frames to stationary and soup mixes.Pine Creek LtdSeasonal floral picks and sit-a-bouts are arranged in vignettes throughout the store.

PRO TIP: The store’s Holiday Open House takes place in November, debuting elaborately decorated trees and decor.

MADISON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & WELCOME CENTER

The Madison County Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center (73 E. Jefferson St, Winterset) is the best place to shop for a souvenir of your trip. The well-stocked shelves include artwork and photography created by locals. Additionally, the staff is eager to answer your travel questions and offer advice.Welcome Center Gifts

SPOONS FULL OF SUGAR

As soon as I walked into Spoons Full of Sugar (420 S. John Wayne Dr.), I wanted everything she was selling. Located a short walk from the courthouse square, the boutique carries boho-style women’s apparel, leather shoes and handbags, and chunky jewelry.Spoons Full of SugarMost of the jewelry is handmade by the owner. Silver spoons are crafted into rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Shoppers in search of faith-based finds will appreciate the store’s inventory.Clothing BoutiquePRO TIP: Like what you see here but can’t make it to the shop? Visit her online store.

EVERGREEN AND LILY FLORAL STUDIO

Evergreen and Lily Floral Studio (419 S. First St., Winterset) is across the street from Spoons Full of Sugar, a worthwhile stop if you’re searching for bountiful houseplants or fresh floral arrangements.

The store is also female-owned and operated, stocking inventory created by women.Plant StoreI loved how each houseplant was given a name to make the shopping experience more fun. I couldn’t leave without buying a handcrafted greeting card for our house host.

Floral ArrangementsPRO TIP: Visit the Facebook page to RSVP for upcoming floral arrangement workshops.

LUNCH: MADISON COUNTY WINERY, ST. CHARLES

After a great shopping day, Madison County Winery is the only place to go (3021 St. Charles Rd., St. Charles), a 16-minute drive southeast of Winterset. You can sample and purchase Iowa-produced wines and craft beers from two local breweries.

The vineyard produces five varieties of grapes on 30 acres.Madison County WineryWe enjoyed a five-sample tasting of wines of our choice while visiting with the owner/winemaker. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the process of wine production from vine to glass while we enjoyed a platter of artisan cheeses, meats, and chocolates with our wine.

Madison County Winery GrapesI appreciated the aged white cheddar with the dry Rosato red wine. Other favorites included crisp and refreshing Vignoles, semi-dry white Hunter’s Moon, and Red Cabernet.

PRO TIP: Ask for a sample of the Unfiltered Wine Rosemary & Garlic Vinegar with bread. You’ll want to buy a bottle to take home. Bonus! If you arrive during a Wood Fired Pizza event, enjoy $2 off glasses of wine.

IMES BRIDGE

Located East of St. Charles, the Imes Bridge is visible from the highway. One of the oldest of the remaining covered bridges, the 81-foot bridge was originally located closer to the town of Patterson but was moved to its current location in 1977.

Imes Bridge

The bridges were constructed with wood and designed to be covered to last longer. Some visitors, particularly couples, have carved their names or initials into the wood to signify their love.

THE FARMSTAND BY MANASTASH MERCANTILE

Like a boutique store in a big city, The Farmstand by Manastash Mercantile (101 Main St., St. Charles) caters to shoppers who want gifts for themselves or someone else with sophisticated style.

The mother-daughter duo believes “people here deserve these things, and there is something for everyone.” The Farmstand by Manastash MercantileWhat started as a jewelry business evolved into a specialty store selling dishes, apparel, gourmet foods, fresh floral arrangements, and more.

WAYWARD SAINTS GIFT SHOP

Wayward Saints Gift Shop (located across the street from The Farmstand by Manastash Mercantile) is a cozy shop supplying locals and visitors with handcrafted items from nearly 20 regional vendors.

Wayward SaintsWayward Saints Farm LLC produces goat milk products such as soaps, lotions, and hand-poured soy candles. You may find them at an area farmers market when they are not running the shop.

IOWA QUILT MUSEUM

If you quilt or appreciate those who do, visiting the Iowa Quilt Museum (68 E. Court Ave.) is essential.

The downstairs gallery houses evolving exhibits of handcrafted quilts. Curious about the evolution of making quilts, I walked upstairs to view historical displays.

QuiltsOn the day of my visit, I voted for my favorite quilt, a 3-D pattern, from the collection “Welcome Home: A Celebrate of Quilts.” It was interesting to look closely at the handiwork of quilts dating back to the 1850s.

Quilt ExhibitPRO TIP: The museum installs new exhibits four times a year. Next door, Pieceworks Quilt Shop, sells fabric and supplies.

ROSEMAN BRIDGE

Do you remember the movie scene when Francesca leaves a note for Robert inviting him to dinner? This moment was filmed at Roseman Bridge southwest of Winterset, spanning the Middle River. The 1883 bridge is considered haunted by some after a jail escapee was said to have appeared and then disappeared from its roof in 1892.

Roseman BridgePRO TIP: If you visit Friday-Sunday, stop next door at the Roseman Covered Bridge Gift Shop to purchase a souvenir commemorating your visit to the famous bridge.

PIZZA ON THE PRAIRIE: HENRY WALLACE FARM

If you’ve never experienced a farm-to-table dinner at sunset, you haven’t lived. Pizza on the Prairie at the Wallace Centers of Iowa (2773  290th St., Orient) is a reservation-only event on Friday nights from early June to late September.Wallace Centers of IowaUpon our arrival, we followed the path to the kitchen to order our brick oven pizzas and house-made cucumber salad. We walked with craft beers in hand to a table of friendly locals who welcomed us to sit with them.

White PizzaLive folk music played as we dined on two styles of pizzas and engaged in conversation with our new friends. Inspired by the sunset, we left the table to walk a manicured path through the prairie amongst towering sunflowers and a temporary Prairie Art Exhibit.

ArtThe unique experience left an impression on us. After driving back from the event, we vowed to do two things: 1.) Learn how to make fresh tomato compote (delicious on the pizza) and 2.) Take our new friend’s advice for aging well, “Stay active and be social.”

MusiciansPRO TIP: Bring lawn chairs or a picnic blanket to the event.

DAY 3

BREAKFAST: PETITE CAFE

Petite Cafe (106 W. Court Ave., Winterset) is worth driving hundreds of miles to experience. The owner, Naomi, wanted to open a coffee shop after the husband and wife team had roasted beans (@pammelparkcoffee) for years.Petite CafeThe popular cafe serves gorgeous, scratch-made pastries with top-quality coffee. The grab-and-go options like salads, wraps, and bakery items made with locally sourced ingredients.

Pastries
People wait in line to order inside the 250-square-foot cafe (seating for 10!), and if a seat isn’t available, they eat their pastries and sip lattes from an outdoor park bench.

PRO TIP: Arrive at the cafe when they open to claim a scone before they’re gone.

DOWNTOWN MURAL TOUR

A series of murals designed by artists James Navarro and Katie Jensen create an interactive experience in an alley adjacent to courthouse square in historic downtown Winterset.

Each painted scene offers visitors something to discover. Look closely at the details to find the hidden gems.

Downtown Mural

MONTROSS PHARMACY SODA FOUNTAIN

I knew I wasn’t leaving town without a visit to Montross Pharmacy Soda Fountain (118 N. 1st Ave), and neither should you. Since 1921, the pharmacy has served the community.

Montross Pharmacy Craving an old-fashioned cherry Pepsi®, I entered the store and headed to the back, where I discovered a nostalgic scene. Residents sat on bar stools and in booths, enjoying a hot breakfast and discussing the day’s events.

PAMMEL STATE PARK

You must visit Pammel State Park (1900 Pammel Park Rd) before departing from Madison County.

Pammel State Park EntranceOnly a 12-minute drive southwest of Winterset, the park is well-revered by locals for its five miles of trails, picnic areas, and historic 1858 Harmon Tunnel – the only highway tunnel in the state.

Pammel ParkThe town celebrates the park’s 100th anniversary this year.

BONUS IDEAS

BIG RACK BREW HAUS

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to hit every go-to spot in the county otherwise, we would have made it to Big Rack Brew Haus (2475 Hiatt Apple Trail, Winterset) – just another reason to return to Madison County.

THE IOWA THEATRE

The Iowa Theatre (121 N. John Wayne Dr.) is a renovated retro movie theater that shows modern-day movies and the John Wayne Matinee Series. You can count on art-house films to be shown during Sunday Movie Club.

Iowa TheaterFESTIVALS AND FAIRS

Madison County hosts a festival or fair almost every month of the year, and the Covered Bridge Festival in October draws a crowd. View their event calendar to plan your visit.

Covered Bridge

TOUR CONSIDERATIONS

If you prefer a guided, two-hour tour of the covered bridges, the Madison County Chamber and Welcoming Center can arrange for one of their expert tour guides to ride in your vehicle and provide information on the history of the bridges, including the movie production, for a small fee.

FINAL THOUGHTS

My Iowan friends told me I’d love my trip to the state, particularly Madison County, and they were right.

I long for the day I can relax on the front porch at Covered Bridge House again or enjoy a delicious meal with a beautiful view of the Winterset courthouse.

Courthouse
Built in 1876, the Madison County Courthouse was designed by French-born architect Alfred Piquenard. The bell, pictured here, was removed in 2011.

I’m incredibly grateful to Madison County, Iowa Chamber & Welcome Center for hosting my visit. If you’d like more information about things to do in the area or upcoming events, follow their Facebook page.

AntiquesIt’s time you plan a vacation to Madison County, Iowa.

If you’re seeking another town to enjoy during your road trip, I recommend adding A Weekend in Fort Dodge, Iowa: A Delightful Getaway to your travel plans. It’s only two hours north of Winterset.

 

 

Filed Under: Iowa, Travel Tagged With: Airbnb, apple, apple fritter, architecture, bakery, boutiques, brewery, bridge, charcuterie, cidery, City Park, country roads, courthouse, covered bridges, Des Moines, farm, film, general store, Hawkeye, heartland, Iowa, John Wayne, Madison County, McIntosh, novel, Orient, Pammel Park, pizza, prairie, quilt, rivers, St. Charles, tea room, wineries, Winterset

Wellington, Kansas: A Small Town Gem Just Waiting to Be Explored

May 15, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Wellington Chamber of Commerce/CVB hosted my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine. 

A 35-minute drive south of Wichita, Wellington is a Kansas town rooted in history with a thriving community of businesses and attractions. Three museums, scenic parks, unique shops, and hometown dining make it worth exiting I-35 South to see for yourself. Plus, the residents are just as welcoming as the town is charming.

flowers
A walkable downtown area, Wellington’s boutiques, museums, and restaurants offer plenty to do.

The county seat of Sumner County, Wellington, is an agriculture/railroad town of about 8,000 residents. The town was established in 1871. At a stop along the Chisholm Trail, cattlemen drove herds through town.

According to the Sumner County Press on November 20, 1873, “A part of cowboys from the trail made time lively last Friday night. Several pistol shots were fired in a saloon and on the street. No arrests.”

downtown Wellington
Historic downtown Wellington is a thriving corridor of businesses on Washington Avenue.

Railroads made it a bustling town in 1879, and you still hear the occasional train horn blow. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad passes through town, and the Union Pacific Railroad’s main lines run north-south. Another industry, aircraft parts manufacturing, also helped the town’s economy.

Fast forward to today, Wellington draws people to town for festivals, including the annual Kansas Wheat Festival.

water tower
Wellington is a community with a vibrant downtown setting along Washington Avenue. Its newly adopted official flag hangs from light poles along its main thoroughfare.

COFFEE & BREAKFAST

No. 7 Coffee House

No. 7 Coffee House in Wellington is your first stop when in town. A women-owned and operated business open Tuesday-Saturday, the coffee shop is known for its phenomenal baked goods and crafted coffee drinks.

With coffee beans sourced from Topeka’s PT Coffee, the baristas stay busy preparing traditional and specialty coffee drinks, and seasonal drink options like Bees Knees Chai keep it fun. Non-coffee drinkers will gravitate to their hot or iced tea menu.

latte and muffinNo. 7 Coffee House is a morning hangout where locals greet one another as they walk in and discuss the day’s events. They sip coffee with dining on maple pecan scones, muffins, and sausage quiche.

My hazelnut latté and Cinnamon Streusel with Cream Cheese muffin surpassed my expectations. The muffin (the size of a softball!) was scrumptious. It’s no wonder locals rave about the café’s scratch-made pastries.

coffee house menuDuring lunchtime, locals gravitate to the coffee shop to market fresh sandwiches, salads, and wraps. The day I visited, the owner made homemade bierocks in the kitchen. Each day, the chalkboard displays a new menu special. Locals told me the Chicken Salad on Croissant sandwich is a must-have menu item.

PRO TIP: Plan extra time to shop the quaint retail section of the coffee house.

pastries

EXPLORING TOWN

Downtown Murals

After breakfast, I walked a couple of blocks from No. 7 Coffee House to (214 S. Washington Ave.), where to my surprise, the artist was applying paint to sunflowers using soft brush strokes.

Local Ursula Goff explained that the concept of each of the mural’s panels evolved from organic conversations with locals and then brainstorming ideas using an Artificial Intelligence app. The sunflowers are a nod to the state’s official flower.Heritage Plaza Sculpture MuralGoff wants the mural’s vibrant colors to attract viewers who use it as an interactive backdrop to take selfies. I didn’t hesitate to take one with the sunflower’s petals in the background. The artist said she may not sign the mural because “it belongs to the town.”

Chisholm Trai MuralArtist Majorie Hall Bicker painted a scene depicting moments in Wellington’s history around the corner from BeeHive Quilt Shop on 7th Street. Dedicated to the city in 2000, visiting the mural should be part of everyone’s visit to town.

ghost signPRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for ghost signs that appear faded on downtown buildings. The 120-year-old Jacob Engle Dry Goods sign at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Street was recently restored for Wellington’s 150th anniversary.

Historic Architecture

So often, tourists visit a town and neglect to learn about its historical architecture. In Wellington, the downtown buildings are strikingly beautiful. Brick, limestone, and artistic wood details make the details of the historic buildings awe-inspiring. A drive along Washington Avenue reveals a glimpse into the past.

Downtown buildingAnother can’t-miss architectural wonder, The Pink House (114 S. Jefferson), is a sight for the eyes. Unlike any other residence in Wellington, the home is not open to visitors, but people often take photos with it in the background.

The home, situated between two churches, took five years to build. The Smith family was inspired by homes they saw during a trip to California. The interior’s handmade tiles and moldings are Spanish Revival style.

pink house
The Smith, Edwin House, aka The Pink House, features a Spanish Eclectic style using stucco, wrought iron, and a red tile roof.

PRO TIP: Look up while walking along Washington Avenue. The downtown buildings’ architectural details reveal the Gothic Revival style (1840-1880). Can you spot the decorative window frames and gables?

Woods Park/Donut Bay

Woods Park/Donut Bay (1110 E 4th St.) is a massive public park on the south end of town that sits near a picturesque 18-hole golf course. My leisurely visit was made better by the entertaining ducks and geese gathered near the water.

waterfallgeese and ducksThe park features picnic areas, playground equipment for the kiddos, a sand volleyball pit, and fishing areas. The well-maintained disc golf course includes concrete pads and wide fairways for beginner to moderately difficult play.

A public art piece in the park resembles a dog in mid-run.

PRO TIP: If you’re searching for a place to enjoy the water on a good weather day, Wellington Lake is a six-mile drive west of town on U.S. 160. You can fish, boat, and camp (permits required).

Worden Park

A short drive outside of town, Worden Park (800 W. Hillside) consists of 61 acres of mostly athletic fields, but the paved track and an ADA-accessible playground area invite visitors to explore the area.

Feel free to bring your dog if you walk them on a leash. Doggy bag stations are positioned around the park.

PRO TIP: Wear comfortable shoes to walk the trails around the ball fields, and bring bottled water. You might catch a softball team practicing like I did if you’re lucky.

playground

Memorial Auditorium & Bronze Field Guns

The home of concerts and local events, Memorial Auditorium (208 N. Washington Ave.) is an architectural wonder in its own right. In 1918, Wellington attorney Ed Hackney spearheaded its building to serve as a memorial for local and county soldiers.

Completed a few years later, Memorial Hall became an attractive downtown building, which included stained glass windows and wrought iron staircase railings.

Country concert performances on the main stage attract fans to the auditorium. Logan Mize and Tracy Byrd each entertained crowds.

stained glass windowsOutside, the historical tour continues with the Bronze Field Guns exhibit. The cannons were delivered upon the request of the Grand Army of the Republic James Post of Wellington in 1909. Delivered in 1915, they serve as a memorial.cannonst-shirtsPRO TIP: Visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce to purchase branded merchandise, including ground coffee, t-shirts, holiday ornaments, and more.

LUNCH STOP

The Dore

At mid-day, one restaurant in town is always hopping. The Dore (114 N. Washington Ave.) is a family-owned bar and grill known for hamburgers. For the last 12 years, customers have come to count on the menu’s selection of comfort classics and daily specials.

After finding an open seat at the bar, I ordered a cheeseburger and sweet potato fries. I was surprised at how quickly my food arrived, considering that people continued filling up tables inside and on the back patio during lunch.

Regular customers watched horse racing and golf on TV while families tended to younger patrons and dined on sandwiches. If you go, Lauren and Amber will take good care of you.

PRO TIP: It’s a busy place at lunchtime. Arrive when the restaurant opens to score a table for two or more people

cheeseburger

MUST-SEE MUSEUMS

In my experience, tourists don’t always have access to multiple museums in a town the size of Wellington. Each one includes unexpected treasures a no cost to the public – donations are gladly accepted. Don’t forget to sign each one’s guest book.

National Depression Glass Museum

Let the fun continue at National Depression Glass Museum (107 N. Washington Ave.), where the collection will wow you. Even if you’re not someone who collects glassware, it is worth checking out, as the enormity of the delicate pieces in various colors and shapes is breathtaking.

The museum houses nearly every pattern of Depression Glass, and 90 percent of the over 20,000-piece collection is donated. Many of the cases showcase the family name that donated the glass.

depression glass museum
Remember the glassware your grandmother or a family member collected? A tour of the museum is a walk down memory lane.

The only museum in the nation that accepts all American glass companies, each case is organized by pattern. During my guided tour, we wandered from case to case admiring the handiwork of glassblowers and creators. I was mesmerized by the designs and especially impressed with the glow-in-the-dark collection. Brightly colored bowls, muted colored vases, translucent plates, glass utensils – the list goes on.

glasses
The glass museum’s inventory features glassware from kitchen glass to ornamental pieces.glow in the dark glassAs you can imagine, the museum is gifted thousands of pieces of glassware, including duplicates of the already displayed items. Check the gift shop. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the reasonably priced duplicates for sale. Items are marked down 20% during the Christmas Sale.

PRO TIP: Ask the employees if you can watch them open a box of donated glass items – it’s like opening a gift! If you’re a collector, ask to use the free resource library to conduct research.

Chisholm Trail Museum

Giddy up! Chisholm Trail Museum (502 N. Washington Ave.) is a sought-after attraction in Wellington for its historical content. The town was a central stop on the cattlemen’s trail from Texas to Kansas starting in 1867. According to kshs.org, 2,000-3,000 head of cattle would depart from Texas during the spring en route to Abilene’s stockyards.

longhornInterestingly enough, the building itself is a historical treasure. Once known as Hatcher Hospital, Dr. A. R. Hatcher and his staff treated patients using state-of-the-art equipment in pristine conditions. The building was gifted to the Chisholm Trail Museum in 1965.

The museum honors Wellington’s history while showcasing artifacts from every decade since its establishment, and each room is designed with a theme in mind.

Wellington artifacts
The museum also houses innumerable Wellington-specific artifacts.

The 1875 Pioneer room contains home goods and tools. The railroad road displays a wall of framed black and white photographs and train memorabilia. Other rooms display antique cameras, old-fashioned dresses, and farm tools, while others are designed to replicate the room of a home during earlier times.

Donated pieces of a more quirky nature are also on exhibit. Sumner County’s original high school mascot, an alligator, is encased in glass.

saddleperiod dressesOf course, I was fascinated by the room designed to resemble a vintage soda fountain complete with a vinyl booth, ice cream dishes, and the “Let’s Sell Ice Cream” book once used at the Chief Drug Soda Fountain until 1986.

No matter your personality, you’re bound to stumble upon a curated item that speaks to you at the museum. Locals will appreciate the high school artifacts.

PRO TIP: If you’re interested in touring with a group or outside business hours, contact the museum directly or complete a tour request form.

museum exhibit

Panhandle Railroad Museum

Railroad lines passing through Wellington increased the town’s population over the years. Panhandle Railroad Museum (425 E. Harvey Ave.), located in a  historic 1881 gas manufacturing building at Sellers Park, is a hidden gem for train enthusiasts and curious travelers. After Perry Wiley retired as a train conductor, he started collecting railroad memorabilia in 1990.

railroad museum
The Panhandle Railroad Museum occupies the original Park House Gallery, listed on the Kansas Register of Historic Places in 1991. It was built for the town’s power and light company and became a recreation center.

Perry and his wife Sherry renovated the building and filled it with the family’s collection, mostly BNSF items. Logo merchandise, uniforms, clocks, depot accessories, photographs, telegraph machines, passenger car dinnerware – you name it, the museum has it.railroad depot benchAt age 85, Perry enthusiastically gives guided tours of the museum, pointing out items he curated or gifted to him, like the two-sided depot bench and original Santa Fe merchandise featuring the company mascot, Chico. A clock wall displays timepieces that were inspected for the correct time to ensure trains arrived on schedule.clocksAside from the impressive collection, it’s possible that Perry’s love of all things railroad will rub off on you. Not only did I learn about railroad employees’ work, but I also had a better appreciation for the industry that helped develop so many Kansas towns, including Wellington.

PRO TIP: All aboard! Take a photo with the 1903 AT&SF steam locomotive on display across the lawn from the museum at Sellers Park.

locomotive

SHOPPING

Nothing excites me more than discovering a locally-owned business where I can shop to my heart’s content. On Washington Avenue, several quaint businesses deserve your business. Historical downtown Wellington provides one-stop shopping, from women’s apparel to toys and home decor.

Beehive Quilt Shop & Bee Creative Toys

Two stores in one, Beehive Quilt Shop & Bee Creative Toys (122 N. Washington Ave.), share the same space. People travel from far away to check out the quilt shop that stocks over 100 books, dozens of kits, hundreds of notions, and over 1,000 patterns. The store frequently hosts instructional sessions for quilters of all experience levels.

Having visited several quilt shops across Kansas, I was impressed by the staffers’ knowledge of on-trend designs and how to teach others the techniques for every kind of quilt.

quiltsAt Bee Creative Toys, shelves, and turnable displays are stocked with every kind of game, interactive play set, and plush toy you can imagine. Toys designed for newborns to adults are available. They carry an extensive collection of brand names, including Lego, Fred & Friends, and Melissa & Doug.

The staff is great about finding a toy or game that matches a child’s skill set and curiosity.

PRO TIP: Follow the store on Facebook to stay up to date about upcoming events and toy arrivals. board games

Bay & Brielle Co.

Bay & Brielle Co. (207 S. Washington Ave.) is the women’s apparel boutique you wished you’d discovered sooner. The inventory consists of hand-selected classic pieces as well as current looks.

It’s the kind of boutique you’re guaranteed to leave with a blouse for an upcoming event or a dress to wear on a special occasion. The store is special because it includes clothes from size small to 3x, and the inventory is regularly restocked.

dressesBesides beautiful apparel, Bay & Brielle Co.’s accessories are on par with the latest trends. A collection of seasonal shoes, hats, and colorful handbags make completing an outfit a cinch.

PRO TIP: The shop also sells non-apparel items, from jewelry to candles. Crocks Dinner Club meal starter packets are a popular purchase.

women's apparel

Salty Creek Decor

If you love to hunt down unique home decor pieces and antiques, visiting Salty Creek Decor (301 N. Washington Ave.) is a must. The multi-room store artfully displays decorating pieces such as custom chalk signs, pillows, candles, and metalwork.

home decor wallMost of the inventory caters to shoppers looking for a refined rustic or farmhouse deco style. A corner of the store even carries nursery decor and toys for parents or grandparents looking for something new. Shopping at Salty Creek Decor is an interior designer’s dream and is sure to inspire.

PRO TIP: The store sits on the same property as a glass company, Vince Erwin Glass, so ask about residential glass projects if it suits your needs.

home decor

DINNER STOP

Fabiola’s

The food is fabulous at Fabiola’s (302 N. Washington Ave.). If you’re craving authentic Mexican food, it delivers. Since 1997, the family-owned restaurant has attracted regular customers. By consistently serving good food and providing friendly service, it’s easy to see why.

quesoI tried something out of my comfort zone and sampled the highly recommended fresh pork rinds with pepper jack cheese and spinach queso, which I devoured. The rinds arrived at the table, crackling fresh from the fryer.

For dinner, I chose a beef fajita bowl, Kristi’s Special, made with grilled onions, peppers, beans, queso, and adorned with a tomato rose. The meat was tender, and the outer shell was crisp.

fajita saladMy server recommended that I save room for dessert, and even though I was full, I couldn’t turn down caramel churros with vanilla ice cream drizzled with honey and chocolate. 100% delicious.

When you visit Fabiolas’s, you can expect attentive service from locals who know most regular customers. At the time of my visit, the owner reminded customers that the restaurant was stocked with to-go enchiladas for sale near the register because the restaurant was closing for a week so staff could attend her wedding. People can’t resist the food.

PRO TIP: Visit on Thursdays for 1/2 price margaritas, and ask about daily food specials.

churros

OTHER THINGS TO SEE & DO

If you plan to extend your visit to Wellington, I recommend visiting a few more gems while in town.

Wellington Regent Theatre

Nothing compares to watching a movie, like seeing it on the big screen with popcorn in hand. At Wellington Regent Theater (114 W. Lincoln Ave.), movie fans can view first-run films. You can count on screening times on Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm and 7 pm or Monday at 7 pm.

Follow the theatre’s Facebook page to view the latest movie release and confirm show times.

Wellington Regent Theatre

Carnegie Library

Did you know that steel industry tycoon Andrew Carnegie founded 2,059 public libraries and gave over $40 million to fund 1,679 libraries in America? From 1886 to 1919, libraries like Wellington’s Carnegie Library (121 W. 7th St.) opened to the public to provide access to books. One of 63 Carnegie libraries in Kansas, the Neo-Classical building is listed on the National Register of History Places.

Not all Carnegie libraries still serve as such, so a visit to the Wellington Public Library is worth a visit to admire its grand design and outdoor bronze sculptures.

library
Wellington’s Carnegie Library was built in 1916 and remains a working library.

Columbian Mammoth

I also like to locate interesting, obscure places or landmarks when traveling. You know, the kind that ignites your curiosity that you want to pull the car over to see. Inside the Sumner County District Courthouse (501 N. Washington Ave.), an archeological find unearthed a few miles from town sat inside glass on display to admire – a Columbian Mammoth’s skull.

The extinct Ice Age elephant’s skull was found by Tim Kelly in 1992, and records prove that the first farmers in the county found similar bones dating back to the 1870s.

fossil bonesWellington is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring some of the top attractions in south-central Kansas. A short drive from Wichita, I was delighted to meet residents who made me feel welcome, and there were unlimited places to explore. I know you’ll fall in love with it, too.

Like me, mark your calendar for the annual Kansas Wheat Festival, which celebrates the Wheat Capital of the World in mid-July. What started over 100 years ago as a parade has become a four-day extravaganza with food trucks, a carnival, live entertainment, contests, and more.

Wellington Flag
The newly designed Wellington flag showcases wheat to honor the town’s agricultural roots.

Bonus: If you love a road trip within driving distance of Wichita, I encourage you to check out Fun Day Trips from Wichita, a quick guide to the region’s top town. Each town offers something unique just like Wellington.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: bar and grill, boutique, Chisholm Trail, churros, coffee house, courthouse, Cowley College, depressio glass, Donut Bay, Fabiola's, glassware, hamburger, home decor, Kansas, Kansas Wheat Festival, mammoth, mural, National Glass Museum, quilt shop, railroad, Regent Theatre, Sante Fe Railroad, South Central Kansas, stained glass, Sumner County, sunflowers, tacos, The Dore, toy shop, trains, Wellington, wheat, Woods Park

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

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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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