Disclosure: Visit Kearney sponsored my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine.
Kearney, Nebraska, is one of those towns you wish you’d known about sooner.
The town’s downtown scene thrives with boutiques, and you’ll find numerous breweries, attractions, and luxurious hotel accommodations ideal for a weekend getaway.
Whether you’re traveling solo like me or sneaking away on a girls’ weekend or couples’ excursion, use my travel blog as your essential guide.
I recommend reserving lodging at Crowne Plaza® Kearney, and then setting out to explore The Bricks District (downtown) with added stops at places like The Archway and Yanney Heritage Park as time allows.
Kearney, Nebraska: Things To Do From Downtown Boutiques to Breweries
MUST-SHOP BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY STORES
If strolling downtown among beautiful murals and shopping at clothing boutiques or specialty stores sounds like an ideal afternoon, The Bricks District is your dream destination.

Kate’s Botanicals & Candle Studio
Sure, you could buy a candle. But what if you made it yourself? At Kate’s Botanicals & Candle Studio (2119 Central Ave.), I crafted a one-of-a-kind candle in less than 30 minutes.
Creating my custom candle was as easy as choosing a vessel, blending the chosen scent into melted coconut wax, and adding a clean-burning wick. Within hours, my candle was ready to pick up and enjoy.
The shop also sells beautiful, hand-crafted soaps that pair well with a candle to gift to someone.
PRO TIP: Walk-ins are welcome, but if you want to arrive with a group, reserve a private party session.
Rolling Peach Boutique
The Rolling Peach Boutique (2220 Central Avenue) is for women who want to dress fashion-forward while incorporating seasonal trends into their wardrobe, in sizes ranging from small to extra-large.
Handbags, shoes, and a selection of charmed Kendra Scott® necklaces round out the clothing inventory from brands like Free People®, Risen®, and Thread and Supply®. Expect bold colors and plenty of Nebraska apparel.
The 308 Boutique
Stylish separates, jackets, Liverpool jeans, and flowy dresses for women hang from displays at The 308 Boutique (2302 Central Ave.)
As a middle-aged woman, I felt like the inventory resembled pieces I’d choose for a business-casual affair or a special date night: matchable, neutral colors, and chic.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss the clearance racks upstairs.
The Rustic Patch
Shop at The Rustic Patch (2100 Central Ave.) for home decor items, hand-painted door hangers, and candles to add to your home.
Most items have a country-meets-farmhouse style. Most of the inventory comes from local makers, and a back room includes specialty food items like dip and drink mixes.
I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, who paused from a paint session to welcome me. Her seasonal door hangers are top sellers.
PRO TIP: Book a ticket to the store’s next door hanger paint party online.
Central Mercantile
Central Mercantile (2206 Central Ave.) is one of the best kitchen supply stores I’ve ever shopped.
Housed in a building dating back to 1910, it carries everyday kitchenware and gadgets for the modern-day home cook. Stop for a cute coffee mug; leave with a new Smeg® espresso maker.
PRO TIP: The store is home to KTown Cakery, so be prepared to go home with a cheesecake, and they also serve a lunch menu from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Olde Towne Alchemy
Discover whimsical gifts for yourself or the holistic-minded friend in your life at Olde Towne Alchemy (2017 Central Ave.)
The store smelled of incense as I browsed rooms filled with crystals, tarot cards, essential oils, candles, and more. A woman selected a ring with an energy stone at the front counter.
A journey into a back room that resembled an apothecary shop revealed an herbalist’s paradise with endless jars of medicinal herbs and CBD products.
Buffalo Records
Shopping for used vinyl records is my latest hobby, so a stop at Buffalo Records (19 E. 21st St.) was a must when strolling downtown Kearney.
Indie rock played from the speakers as I joined other audiophiles to search for newly released albums and used classics.
If you’re used to shopping for vinyl records, you know that prices vary based on quality and release date. I appreciated that the store’s used records were affordably priced, ranging from $5 to $12.
PRO TIP: Walk to the back of the store to shop for pre-owned compact discs and cassette tapes.
Simply Blessed Boutique
Friendly staff, tasteful women’s clothing, and gifts make Simply Blessed Boutique (2 Locations) a worthwhile stop.
Shopping at its downtown location? Creating a game day outfit is easy. You’ll likely leave with a cute Nebraska Huskers top to pair with a red handbag and faux pearl earrings.
The satellite store inside Crowne Plaza® Kearney appeals to a more mature shopper seeking a neutral color palette.
SIP-WORTHY BREWERIES
For a town population of 35,000 residents, I was surprised by the number of breweries in Kearney. The variety of craft breweries is refreshing, and each offers a unique tasting experience.
Thunderhead Brewing
My first stop in Kearney was Thunderhead Brewing (18 E 21st St.). I heard that they serve excellent craft beer, and locals recommended ordering a pizza or calzone.
I was surprised to discover they have 28 craft beers on tap. They brew seven flagship beers; the rest of the taps are limited, big-batch, or Trever’s Leftovers selections.
After sampling a couple of beers, I chose the Leatherhead Red Ale. The English-style beer delivered the maltiness and light caramel and toffee notes that I prefer.
If you don’t drink beer, Thunderhead Brewing Company will happily prepare a cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage. The whiskey selection is plentiful.
Upper Room Brewery
The co-owners at Upper Room Brewery (1540 W. 56th St., Suite D) greeted me warmly. The owners, a hospice chaplain and a business professor, launched the business in 2020 and have since expanded, opening 52 Taphouse in Minden, Nebraska.
1980s music played as I sipped a beer flight of IPAs and English-style ales. Ultimately, the Sunrise Hazy IPA was my preferred beer.
A faith-based business, which is obvious given the names of beers like Glory Cloud and Holy Water. The atmosphere is laid-back. You’ll likely meet friendly locals at the bar.
Kinkaider Brewing Co.
Upon entering Kinkaider Brewing Co. (221 11th Ave.), you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at a German biergarten. The tavern-style taproom is expansive which includes an outdoor patio overlooking a large pond.
The taps pour the brewery’s core beers, seasonals, and imported German beer. The Fox Hefeweizen, a wheat beer with notes of banana and clove, was smooth and pleasantly tasting.
The food menu features European-inspired appetizers like Scotch Eggs and Irish Nachos. Flatbread pizza, handhelds, and wings are common orders.
PRO TIP: The brewery includes a separate room with a bar often preferred by families seeking a less festive atmosphere.
McCue’s Nebraska Taproom
Locals hang out at McCue’s Nebraska Taproom (2008 Avenue A.) when they want to drink beer made in their state from one of 30 taps. Its Tappy Hour (Monday through Friday $5.50/pint) draws a crowd to watch televised Cornhuskers women’s volleyball.
Monolithic Brewing’s Hazy Benevolent Sun was the perfect citrus-hoppy beer I wanted to mark the end of the summer season.
PRO TIP: Consider bringing cash. The credit card reader machines can be finicky.
DELICIOUS DINING STOPS
There is no shortage of restaurants. Kearney’s dining scene includes international fare, sports bars, and American cuisine.
Kitt’s Kitchen & Coffee
Start your day at Kitt’s Kitchen & Coffee ( 2011 A. Ave.), where you’ll find yourself surrounded by colleagues eating breakfast at wood-topped tables behind laptops and others dining with friends.
Known for their crepes and scratch-made breakfast menu, I chose the Kitt’s Classic Breakfast. The perfectly cooked eggs and bacon were satisfying, though the berry jam on my sourdough toast was more like juice than a spreadable topping.
A flawless vanilla latte made with in-house roasted coffee complemented my dining experience.
If you choose a patio seat, check out the antique truck positioned outside, a homage to a cherished family member.
PRO TIP: Kitt’s After Hours Pub Nights offer a flatbread pizza menu and a lineup of drinks.
Penny Coffee Roasters
If you crave a quality coffee paired with a grab-and-go breakfast, Penny Coffee Roasters (2100 Central Ave.) is a must-stop on The Bricks.
Here, I reflected on my fun travel experiences while sipping a locally roasted drip coffee from a window seat.
The sausage roll was flavorful, though surprisingly small for $4. Ask about their pastry selection; they also serve lunch.
Central Mercantile ft. Ktown Cakery
At first glance, you may think Central Mercantile ft. Ktown Cakery (2206 Central Ave.) is merely a kitchen supply store. It also serves lunch from 11 am to 2 pm daily, and Ktown Cakery serves delectable cookies and cheesecake.
Select from a menu featuring classic sandwich recipes and deli wraps. Each comes with a choice of side and a freshly baked cookie.
I enjoyed a Chicken Salad Wrap while seated at one of the tables. It felt a little awkward eating near people who were shopping for kitchen gadgets, but overall it was a delightful experience.
Cunningham’s Journal on the Bricks
Cunningham’s Journal on the Bricks (15 W. 23rd St.) is the kind of sports bar where everyone gathers for lunch during a Husker game or dinner with friends before going to a show at The World Theatre.
Set in a building dating back to 1890, diners can watch TV from almost anywhere, and a small indoor stage often hosts live music. Upstairs, the room has a more laid-back college vibe, and an outdoor courtyard offers an escape from the Game Day crowd.
Journal Bites, marinated steak bites, are as good as the hype. You could order a burger, sandwich, or steak, but the Strawberry Feta & Chicken Salad is hard to beat–even if it is served in a cast iron pan.
PRO TIP: Happy Hour $1 off beers
Thunderhead Brewing
You don’t always find a brewery that produces high-quality food, but Thunderhead Brewing (18 E. 21 St.) fits the bill, serving stone oven pizza, calzones, appetizers, and salads.
They prepare specialty pizzas with creatively chosen ingredients. The 10″ Alfredo Chicken Pizza, topped with spinach and fresh tomato, was delicious and offered plenty of food for a one-person lunch.
Alley Rose
My favorite place to dine is Alley Rose (2013 Central Ave.). A mainstay since 1991, it offers an unbeatable lunch and fine dining experience.
If you’re inclined, Happy Hour specials are a great value for the quality. An order of hand-dipped onion rings that could easily feed four people was $5 during Happy Hour.
My server, Chanda, expertly reviewed the dinner menu with me, offering me advice when prompted about popular menu items like the Prime Rib and Palm Beach Mahi Mahi.
I ate every bite of the Grilled Salmon served with wild rice and sweet baby carrots before Chanda returned with a tray of house-made cakes to tempt me for dessert.
PRO TIP: Sit bar-side for Happy Hour between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., where the forest green booths and dark wood beams resemble an old European pub. Stained-glass skylights illuminate vinyl records that hang from the ceiling.
The Golden Spoon Scoop Shop
I arrived just before a long line of customers showed up at The Golden Spoon Scoop Shop (11 N. Railroad St.) on a Friday evening.
Traditional cookies-and-cream ice cream satisfied my sweet tooth after a day of exploring.
Indoor seating is limited, and there are only two tables outdoors, so expect to eat your ice cream on the go if the shop is busy.
DON’T MISS DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS
The Bricks District is a thriving downtown corridor of performing arts venues, a public library, and the Museum of Nebraska Art.
And if you know me, I never miss a chance to celebrate the arts.
Museum of Nebraska Art
You can easily spend an hour appreciating the renowned collection at the Museum of Nebraska Art (2401 Central Ave.). Before entering the historic building, take a moment to admire its stunning architecture.
The building, which served as the town’s post office since 1911, eventually opened as an art museum in 1986.
Visitors can take self-guided tours at no cost (donations welcome), perusing three floors of art galleries showcasing work done by artists who were born, lived, trained, or worked in Nebraska.
I was awestruck by a painting entitled “Buffalo Hunt on the River Platte” by Titian Ramsey Peale, 1799-1885, for its storytelling scene and quality.
Lounge areas and a children’s room are bonuses. The retail store sells pottery, jewelry, apparel, and print works from Nebraska makers.
Murals & Crosswalks Art
It’s hard to miss the beautiful hand-painted murals along Central Avenue’s pedestrian crosswalks and adorning buildings.

More than 15 large-scale murals, and you’ll likely notice trees covered in crochet, referred to as “yarn bombing” during Destination Downtown Night Market.
Impressed by the flowering planters and murals beautifying downtown, I complimented the town to a local who replied: “It’s a great place to live.”

PRO TIP: Embark on a mural scavenger hunt using this Downtown Kearney link.
The World Theatre
The World Theatre (2318 Central Ave.), inside a Masonic Temple built in 1927, is a volunteer-run performance space that hosts live acts and movies during the weekends.
Theatre-goers enjoy plenty of legroom wherever they sit, and locals rave about the buttered popcorn, made with corn from a local farmer.
I attended a performance by Joseph Hall, Elvis: Reflections Tribute Show. You would have never guessed the performance drew a modest crowd, given the high-energy show and the audience’s enthusiastic reception.
We laughed, cheered, and sang along as if we were in the presence of The King. He gave away satin scarves and threw teddy bears into the audience.
The show was electric.
I suggest arriving at least 15 minutes before the show to admire the theatrical artifacts in the lobby lounge, including original movie scripts.
A retro-themed candy store sells sweet confections.
BEYOND DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS
Kearney Welcome Center
Take my advice and visit the Kearney Welcome Center (220 11th Ave.), which is a fantastic way to ask employees questions or handpick brochures before exploring town.
Plus, the newly constructed building includes tactile and audio exhibits detailing the town’s history, from its 1800s railroad roots to the world’s largest annual Sandhill Crane migration.
PRO TIP: Take a photo with Miles, the life-size sandhill crane bobblehead statue.
The Archway
If you have an extra hour, visit The Archway (3060 E. 1st St.).
Open year-round, the immersive museum offers a self-guided audio tour through rooms designed to look like America’s defining moments along the Great Platte River Road. It sits near where the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails converged.
Upon entering the first room, lights flickered as rolling thunder over the Nebraska plains served as a backdrop to the pioneers’ story.
Onward, the history of the region unfolded until I stood near an early 20th-century touring car.
A replica drive-in movie theatre coupled with a walk-in roadside diner was a nostalgic trip back in time, and one I thoroughly enjoyed as a full-time roadtripper.
Perhaps the most fascinating part of the tour is realizing the museum is built directly over Interstate 80, and the view you can enjoy from the diner’s windows.
PRO TIP: Admission to The Archway includes an art gallery exhibit, the Mining Sluice where kids love to uncover gemstones, and a gift shop.
Yanney Heritage Park
When I saw a Chihuly glass sculpture in a Kearney travel brochure, I knew I wanted to see it firsthand. I tracked it down at Yanney Heritage Park (2020 W. 11th St.).
What I discovered there took my breath away.
Artistic sculptures of flowers, butterflies, and birds are displayed throughout meticulously landscaped gardens. Native grass grows alongside flowering plants. Vibrant color emerges from the ground at every curve of the paved walkway.
The park features a playground with a splash pad and a walk-up lookout tower.
PRO TIP: Chihuly glass sculptures are also displayed inside the Rental Facilities.
LUXURIOUS LODGING
Crowne Plaza Kearney
Crowne Plaza® Kearney by IHG (707 W. Talmadge St.) was my preferred home base during my overnight stay.
It’s a newer, dynamic hotel accommodating travelers in town for business and personal vacations. The hotel is stylishly modern in hues of blue and grey, including its expansive main lounge area and guest rooms.
The hotel anticipates every guest’s needs.
Hungry? Grab something quick to eat at The Marketplace or settle in for Happy Hour followed by a Midwest-inspired dinner at Fyre Modern Grill. It serves three buffets throughout the week.
A full-service Starbucks serves customers from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Female travelers will appreciate Simply Blessed Boutique, an on-site apparel and gift shop.
Perhaps you’re traveling with family? They’ll appreciate burning off energy inside the arcade or swimming at the indoor waterpark (sauna for the adults!).
The fitness facility is one of the best I’ve seen at a hotel, complete with machines, weights, bands, and yoga mats.
Guest rooms are simple in design yet spacious. I took full advantage of the fully stocked coffee station and work desk each morning.
Road-trippers can enjoy free parking, though the hotel guest lot is a bit of a walk from the main entrance, since most of the prime spots are for restaurant guests.
If you’re arriving at the Kearney Regional Airport, guests have access to a complimentary shuttle, a hotel perk that is hard to find these days.
I can’t say enough good things about Kearney.
Every moment of my weekend was a delight, and I know you’ll be equally enamored with its boutiques, breweries, and dining scene.
If you’re continuing your Central Nebraska road trip South to Kansas, consider stopping in another town I adore for its charm: Red Cloud.




Trendy go-to places such as
Take a self-guided tour inside its galleries to admire throughout-provoking pieces by artists ranging from Georgia O’Keefe and Andy Warhol. Outdoors, paved trails wind through 120 acres of Ozark forest with permanent pubic artwork tucked amongst the trees. Keep a keen eye out for architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright and Safdie; their buildings seamlessly blend into the setting.
After your tour, savor a glass of wine or plate of delectable eats with a view at
Lounging with friends at
Remember that The Momentary is within walking distance of
Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the glass-covered displays housing original products, and kids can submit a completed scavenger hunt for prizes. I recommend spending 15 minutes viewing an AI-powered life-sized hologram of founder Sam Walton who recounts his childhood and philosophy on business.
Located at the Bentonville Municipal Airport, Thaden Field honors the contribution of female aviator Louise Thaden, the first woman to win a National Air Race. Thaden was born in Bentonville and broke barriers for women in the industry, holding records for altitude, solo endurance, and speed.
The modern design includes outdoor play areas for kids and a retail area stocked with aviation-themed gifts. Photo-worthy backdrops on each level invite visitors to snap selfies.

Born in Arkansas in 1932, Johnny Cash is one of several legendary Arkansas musicians depicted in downtown Bentonville’s alley artwork. If traveling with kids, take them to 
Seat yourself at the bar for Happy Hour on Monday-Wednesday from 3 pm-6 pm when you see $2 on wine and draft beer. Choose from a short list of margaritas, which are only $5.
Are you visiting with a small group? Reserve the swanky, pink-covered bank vault for an unforgettable experience with reserved seating.
I enjoyed Space Goose Hazy IPA enough to purchase a six-pack of to-go cans. I regret that we had already eaten lunch; otherwise,
I hope this list of fun things to do in Bentonville inspires a road trip. If you travel from Kansas to Northwest Arkansas along Hwy 400, I’ve also written about

The taproom is owned and operated by some of the nicest Kansans. Patrons can expect a laid-back atmosphere, where locals are friendly and eager for conversation.
Plan your visit around one of their live music nights, when everyone in the county shows up to sip and listen.

The brewery has quickly expanded from one barrel to five since opening in 2022. Although they don’t offer traditional beer flights, I wanted to taste all five of their brews, ranging from an espresso stout to a golden ale.
They invite breweries that 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.
I was impressed by the brewery’s ample space to unwind and craft beer. Locals grouped up at tables with a view of the game.
Beverages purchased at the brewery can be enjoyed in the downtown Common Consumption Area, so it’s common to see customers drinking beer and cocktails while walking along Main Street within marked areas.
Gentry’s Gold (5.7% ABV), an English pale ale, reminded me of a refreshing, game-day beer. Not sure what to order from the beer menu? Bartenders recommend a Regular Beer as a starter before moving on to more complex ones like a milkshake IPA.

I couldn’t decide which beer I wanted, so I created a flight of 3-oz pours. Cool Mom Pomegranate Saison was a winner. But if I’m honest, I enjoyed all of the beer in the flight. The brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks are available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.
A flight of small-pour beers gave me a chance to sample four beers from a menu consisting of pale ales, IPAs, a sour, a hard seltzer, and a porter. I thought they were all drinkable, but the Galaxy Frontier Pale Ale was by far my preferred beer for its hop flavor that wasn’t overly pronounced.
During my private tour, I learned that the owners always wanted to serve a variety of beers. Nearly a dozen taps line the wall behind the bar of flagship beers and collaborations with other breweries. I enjoyed a flight featuring five beers with varied flavors and ABVs. Top Traveler, a New Zealand IPA, was awarded the best beer in the line-up.
Individual tasters are $3, but a flight of tasters is the way to go. Most patrons seemed to agree, as nearly everyone at their table had a board and a flight card. A continuous rotation of beer keeps regulars coming back for more.
Their menu has always featured items made with fresh ingredients and flair. You won’t find standard pub grub at Free State. The menu options appeal to foodies who appreciate unique flavor combinations and the freshest ingredients.
I highly recommend stopping at Free State Brewing Co. for lunch or dinner during your visit to Lawrence. Although they are not hosting brewery tours, you can check their 
The food menu features an array of hearty options from burgers to soups and salads. Non-beer drinkers will appreciate the LBC Seasonal Cocktails menu, short wine list, and hard ciders.




Warbeard Irish Red remains one of their most requested flagship beers. I would also recommend the HighBeam IPA. Drinkers who prefer a lighter brew will appreciate the Falconer’s Wheat and Teter Rock Kölsch.
PRO TIP: Check the brewery’s Facebook page for event announcements, which often include comedy shows and live bands. Leashed pets are welcome in the tasting room.
PRO TIP: 
During our visit, we swapped stories and learned more about the great people who make McPherson what it is while sipping on a Vertigo IPA and their latest recipe, Summer Breeze Lime Gosé. Already a fan of one of their flagship beers, Wanderlust, a Scottish Red, I had always wanted to visit the taproom.

The brewery uses a large, on-site production facility. Three flagship pours are served on tap, and the remaining nine taps are reserved for rotators. The bartender told me the brewery’s gluten-free Wicked West Cider is popular with regulars.
The evening of my visit, an acoustic original songwriter sang while newcomers milled about chatting with friends. I appreciate the brewery’s wide selection of beer types, choosing the best-selling El Compadre, an adjunct lager, and maltier Irish ale, Clurichaun.
We sipped on Langdon’s Lager and the Belgian Wit during the lunch hour. With the kitchen in sight, it was time to order pizza. Our server told us that the most popular specialty pizza on the menu is the Drop The Piggy. The homemade crust and sauce were surprisingly good, reminiscent of the pies we dine on in New York. The large pizza was covered in Canadian bacon, pepperoni, Italian sausage, and traditional bacon. Loving every bite and not wanting to leave a morsel behind, we asked for a to-go box.

On warm-weather days, the brewery hosts outdoor events that spill over into Hyde Park across the street. Their anniversary block party in August features live music, food trucks, and games for the kids. I recommend their free jerk chicken and coconut rice during Raggae Sunday.
The best seat in the brewery is in leather chairs in a sunny spot, seated near houseplants and windows, perfect for people-watching. On a good-weather day, choose the rooftop lounge.
I prefer to start with a core beer, Ride The Lightning, an American Pilsner, followed by a smooth Luvbug Hefeweizen or a seasonal brew. Some of my go-to orders from the gastro-pub grub menu include the Bacon Crack, Cobb Salad, and Alabama BBQ Burger.

Opened 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.
It is nearly impossible to order at the register without spying on a delicious homemade pastry in the bakery case. The owner told me 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.
KC 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.
Inside The Barrel Room, adults can savor tasting flights ranging from dry whites and reds to sweeter varieties. You’ll discover an expansive open-air building with outdoor seating and a scenic view of the vineyards just beyond its doors. An oversized KC Wine Co. lights up at night, providing a picture-worthy moment.
Plan your visit to the winery around one of their popular
The 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.
The 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, 
My suite was 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 king-size bed was as comfy and plush.
The 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.
Their 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.
Outside, wine enthusiasts can take advantage of patio seating and covered seating inside a second building also available for group parties. I recommend planning your visit around the sunset hour.
PRO 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
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 taking a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.
Not in the mood for ice cream? Choose a hazelnut iced coffee, latte, or vanilla macchiato from the Espresso Bar menu.
A quick scan of the shelves and I noticed that they sell their 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.
The 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!
PRO TIP: Start on the third floor and work your way down, ending the shopping experience at the register. If you’re searching for a specific gift item, ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction.
I recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was searching for lighter fare and chose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.
PRO 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.
The 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 sandwich instead of the jumbo portion.
The 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 – ask about the seasonal dessert while ordering your meal.
PRO TIP: Walk across the parking lot and check out

Outdoor enthusiasts love it for its recreational options. It sits on the edge of the Flint Hills and near waterways in Cowley County. Shoppers appreciate the downtown corridors for the town’s long list of boutiques and retail stores. I discovered noteworthy dining while spending the day in Winfield as well.
Winfield is home to the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival where people far and wide have arrived at the Flat-Picking Championships to hear the best musicians play every September. The market’s scene was set.
During the opening day of the market, I purchased a baked lemon loaf and walked away with a jar of preserves. Other vendors sold seasonal produce, leather goods, jewelry, soaps, and gifts.
From the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.
I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) is for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.
When in Winfield, promise yourself you’ll stop at College Hill Coffee. You can order from a window on the porch (seating available!) or dine inside. They serve breakfast all day and
I learned from Rick about the numerous plant varieties and the growing habits of lavender as we walked the property. The farm has 28 varieties and he plans to add 15 more in due time. His family is dedicated to providing lavender to as many people who want it.
They grow lavender from seedlings inside a greenhouse and eventually move it outside to be planted in rows. What started as something to do in Rick’s retirement has blossomed into a farm where the public can come out and experience it for themselves.
I was excited to borrow a pair of scissors and sip stems. Afterward, I took my bundle to a farm employee at a cart who added a rubber band to it and directed me to the retail shop to pay $5 for the lavender. The process is easy and one you’ll appreciate.
The 
Shady tree-covered areas and tall grass surround fairways. The meticulous maintenance of the course makes it a beautiful setting. Each hole has two tee boxes made with turf pads. The basket placement ranges. Some baskets sit under trees near a water’s edge, others are hidden in cleared areas around trees, while others are located more in the open. For example, Hole 8’s basket is elevated atop a mound of sand and large tires.
During my tour, I learned that golfers could arrive during course hours and pay cash using the honors system inside a converted train railcar or pay online. Inside the rail car retail shop, you can also purchase new discs. The course was technical and challenging, especially as a new disc golfer. Be prepared to look for baskets that have been moved and don’t always match what
She added a magnet to the bottom of the glass, set it on a base, and added pressure. Suddenly, the pint glass began to fill with beer from the bottom up. It was quite a sight.
Back at the bar, I enjoyed the Smokey Turkey Club with onion rings with a side of sauce for dipping. It was made from top-quality ingredients and tasted delicious. In fact, everything on the menu looked crave-worthy.
Sporting events played on TVs as patrons filled the dining room. The bartender told me how the family, who has owned the restaurant for several years, sandblasted and reused industrial items to decorate the space. The entire restaurant almost felt partially like a museum, from the rustic chandeliers to the hostess stand.
The store is a gem for shoppers on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces who don’t want to pay big-city prices.

The staff at 
I also appreciated the outdoor gardens with walkable paths that lead underneath arched to whimsical spaces and greenhouses. If you’re shopping for herbs, native plants, and hardscaping options, or just need to talk shop about lawn care, Gottlob is where you go.
PRO TIP: Follow the F

The brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks were available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.
The prices were affordable, and the staff consistently visited the table to check on me. Other menu options ranged from baked pasta like lasagna and manicotti to stromboli sandwiches and meatball subs. In search of lighter fare? Order a Greek or caesar salad.
My trip to Winfield was long overdue. When I told friends I was traveling to the area, everyone had good things to say about the Cowley County town. It turns out they were right. Winfield is wonderful.
On my next visit to Winfield and the surrounding area, I plan to stop at
Have you visited Winfield or attended the Walnut Valley Festival? Leave your comments below to provide your travel suggestions for the area.

For me, the heart and soul of a town are its people, and the residents of
I recommend asking the friendly employees about their high-end coffee selection and kombucha on tap. Visiting on a good weather day? Take your coffee outdoors to enjoy the view of Main Street on the front patio under string lights. View Craft Coffee Parlor’s hours 











