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fine dining

Rock Chalk Jayhawk: University of Kansas Campus Tour

November 29, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

As a University of Kansas graduate, Lawrence is like a home away from home for me. I was thrilled when I was invited to return to town to highlight the campus from a tourist’s perspective. KU has a long list of attractions that make it unique and worth checking out, from museums and eateries to sports arenas and historical landmarks.

Watch an introductory Instagram video on my morning on campus here.
You can walk the courtyard in front of the Memorial Union to see the evolution of KU’s mascot, the Jayhawk.

LODGING

I always wanted to stay overnight at The Oread (1200 Oread Ave.), a hotel located on the northern edge of the KU campus known for its casual elegance. The Oread towers over campus with views of the Campanile bell tower and Memorial Stadium and sits within walking distance of campus attractions, downtown shopping, and dining on Massachusetts Street.

Made of Kansas limestone, the stunning hotel is where families stay when in town visiting students. KU alumni create memories on their wedding day at The Oread. It’s the premier hotel on the hill that Lawrence visitors should experience at least once.

Named after Mount Oread, the name of the hill that the KU campus sits on, the hotel includes Bird Dog Bar, The Nest on Ninth, Cave, and 1965 Uniquely KU (a place to stock up on collegiate apparel), and a fitness center.

I visited the Bird Dog Bar during Happy Hour to enjoy a specialty cocktail. I ordered an Oread 75 made with prosecco, gin, Aperol, bitters, and orange juice. For hotel guests who don’t want to head out for a dinner, they also have a full restaurant menu with weekly specials.

The fourth-floor views from my King Terrace room were breathtaking. The expansive, private patio stretched along two sides of the corner room allowing enough room for a small group to gather. It was an incredible space. I imagined hosting friends or family on the terrace before heading to the football game.

The room amenities were equally as nice. The spacious room (400 sq ft) and walk-in shower were delightful. The fresh flowers and a personalized note welcoming me to the hotel were finishing touches that set The Oread apart from other hotels.

With a full day of exploration in store, I left The Oread and walked to the west side of campus in search of a bite to eat for breakfast. (Tip: When setting out to discover the perks of campus life, leave your car parked inside The Oread’s garage. Wear a pair of walking shoes and enjoy the surroundings.)

MCLAIN’S MARKET

McLain’s Market (1420 Crescent Rd) is a bakery and coffee shop known as the go-to spot on campus for breakfast and lunch. Once the site of the Jayhawk Bookstore, the restaurant serves a steady flow of students, faculty, and visitors.

The menu features pastries, breakfast burritos and bowls, as well as snacks prepared fresh from an exposed kitchen space. I arrived between an influx of students so there wasn’t a line. With my order placed, I nestled into a comfy spot indoors with a view of the patio and passing students.

I was surrounded by students chatting with one another about homework demands, conversations about microbiology, and students turning textbook pages. Faces stared at laptops using free Wi-Fi between breakfast bites. A steady stream of students came and went from the upstairs study lounge.

My Market Bowl was a healthy mix of scrambled eggs, shoestring potatoes, and sauteé vegetables. Topped with bacon and cheese, it hit the spot. If only I was still hungry, I would’ve ordered a cookie from the bakery counter. Next visit!

THE DEBRUCE CENTER

A 10-minute walk from McClain’s Market down the hill, The DeBruce Center (1647 Naismith Drive) welcomes visitors looking to celebrate KU’s rich basketball tradition. Part historical museum, partly a gathering place for students, the facility houses James Naismith’s Rules of Basketball. Two pages of handwritten text by Naismith in 1891 rest in an illuminated case. If you push the button on the wall, you will hear his voice tell the story of creating the game.

Watch an Instagram video tour from my self-guided tour of the KU Rules of Basketball here.

Free to explore, The DeBruce Center is a must-stop for basketball fans. I also encourage you to view the Rules Concourse made of glass panels that showcase the early beginnings of KU basketball. Don’t miss the Father of Basketball Coaching Dr. Forrest C. “Phog” Allen’s story wall.

A long-time fan, I appreciated reading quotes from coaches and players displayed on the walls. Another exhibit worth viewing is “Game Changers,” which highlights the story of the game and the people who impacted its trajectory over time.

Naismith founded the school’s basketball program after his arrival at KU in 1898. You can find a commemorative statue in front of The DeBruce Center honoring the man who invented the game.

Why is a peach basket sitting next to him? “I showed them two peach baskets I’d nailed up at each end of the gym, and I told them the idea was to throw the ball into the opposing team’s peach basket,” he said. If I were you, I’d bring my camera to take a picture sitting next to the legend’s statue.

THE BOOTH HALL OF ATHLETICS

You don’t have to go far to enter The Booth Hall of Athletics (1651 Naismith Dr) from DeBruce Center. Opened in 2006, the hall is a memorial to “KU’s great student-athletes and their devoted fans,” a place of remembrance provided by a local family. It’s the mecca for all things KU athletics and it’s open to view free of charge year-round. Guided tours require tickets.

The Booth Hall of Athletics includes the KU Athletics Hall of Fame, artifacts from games of the past, trophies, and a historical timeline of moments in collegiate sports. For me, the best artifact on site is a section of the original center court floor from Allen Fieldhouse. The encircled “K” painted on wood planks marked and scuffed representing years of hard work and dedication to the game.

I walked the campus as a student the same year Raef LaFrentz played for the KU Jayhawk’s Men’s Basketball team. Other players on-campus during those years included Paul Pierce and Eric Chenowith.

Visitors of all ages will appreciate the interactive exhibits. Compare your shoe size to past basketball players. Stretch your arms to discover your reach. Take a selfie on a mini basketball court. The Booth Hall of Athletics should be at the top of your list of things to do on campus.

Make sure to view the cases containing championship trophies and sports memorabilia ranging from athletes’ letter jackets and running shoes to playbooks and equipment.

ALLEN FIELDHOUSE

It’s one of the loudest, rowdiest basketball arenas in the country. Allen Fieldhouse (1651 Naismith Drive) rocks as students jump in excitement for the game. Some say it is the best place in American to watch college basketball. Having experienced it first-hand, I agree. The atmosphere is electric.

Be sure to attend Late Night in the Phog, an event that includes basketball game scrimmages and a chance to get to know the team and coaching staff. An annual sold-out event, it is free and open to the public on a first-come, first-seated basis.

Opened to the public in 1955, it once had a clay and dirt floor. Today, men’s and women’s basketball teams compete on the hardwood for crowds of over 16,000 spectators. Discover more about the building’s history here.

To fully understand the excitement surrounding Jayhawk basketball, you have to attend a game. However, the next best thing is touring Allen Fieldhouse named after “Phog” Allen, the program’s head coach for 39 years. To book a guided tour aka “The Jayhawk Experience” to gain access to the arena, call 785-588-4299.

LUNCH

After a morning of touring campus attractions, there was only one place to dine for lunch, Johnny’s Tavern (401 N. 2nd St.). KU students and townies have dined on pizza, wings, and sandwiches there since its opening in 1953. I prefer the North Lawrence location for its authenticity and proximity to the town’s historic train depot.

An ideal place to listen to the jukebox between watching sports on TV, Johnny’s Tavern serves some of the best pizza in Lawrence. Some claim it is the best. They’re also known for serving the coldest pint of beer in town.

I ordered a slice of Great Bambino with pepperoni and a Blue Collar Lager by Free State Brewery made specifically for the restaurant. It’s the ideal collaboration since Johnny’s Tavern has been the go-to spot for hard-working folks for generations. The wedge salad came with crispy onion rings making it unique. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. The busy lunchtime crowd seemed to agree.

View Johnny’s Tavern hours and get a sneak peek of the menus here. Take advantage of daily specials on food and drink. Happy Hour takes place twice a day Monday-Friday.

DOLE INSTITUTE OF POLITICS

The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics (2350 Petefish Dr.) may not be the first place you think of visiting when in Lawrence, but it should be at the top of your list. The museum pays tribute to the Russell, Kansas native’s contributions from serving in the military to working for Kansans as a U.S. Senator.

As soon as you walk inside you are greeted by the early timeline of Dole’s life in Russell. From his early days working as a paperboy in Western Kansas to earning the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his military service, the museum’s collection includes notable artifacts. I enjoyed reading his personal quotes about his experience healing from war wounds and how it shaped his perspective on life.

To read more about Dole’s hometown, Russell, visit a previous blog post I wrote about it. It also showcases a photo of his childhood home.
The Kansas WWII Veterans Memorial Wall includes over 1,000 images of veterans who bravely served. Now, you can also view a video wall that includes digital images and stories of veterans in the same space.

The museum also features the largest stained-glass American flag flanked by two pieces of the World Trade Center taken from 9/11 debris. I was awestruck and silenced. In that moment, I felt a real sense of patriotism.

The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics promotes political and civic participation while honoring the legacy of U.S. Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole. The center often hosts renowned speakers through bipartisan programs that are free and open to the public.

You’ll also appreciate learning that the entire basement is the Dole Archive and Special Collections, a space you can tour for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the daily life of Bob and Elizabeth Dole in their political roles as senators. The letters written by schoolchildren to Senator Dole were incredible. In my opinion, a tour of the Dole Archive and Special Collections is an essential part of visiting the center.

These campaign buttons sit in one of the dozens of drawers like it in the basement’s Special Collections department.

I regret not visiting the museum earlier, but I’m glad I made the trip. I wrote Senator Dole a card and left it for the museum to mail to him. Unfortunately, he passed away the same day I published this blog post to social media for the first time. RIP, Senator Dole.

If you want to visit the Dole Institute of Politics located on KU’s west campus, check the hours of operation here. Free guided tours are available for visitors and groups, but only if you schedule them in advance. Admission is free.

If you’re unable to travel to the museum, you can take a virtual tour of the Elizabeth Dole Gallery & Reading Room here. Do you have an interest in politics or civic engagement? Check out the website’s events page here.

SPENCER MUSEUM OF ART

The Spencer Museum of Art (1301 Mississippi St.) on the KU campus is open Tuesday-Saturday to the public at no cost. A little grandeur never hurt anyone. If you appreciate fine art, make your way to the museum.

Not only does it serve as the home of impeccable art, but much of the building is also halls and classrooms. I should know. I studied art history as a minor concentration of study while majoring in journalism at KU years ago.

The latest exhibition “Debut” showcases never-before-seen pieces of art. During my visit, a college class was given a tour by a docent who taught them about individual pieces.

I encourage you to visit the museum to view breathtaking artwork. To view the museum’s updated hours and contact information to arrange a tour, visit their website here.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

I’ve visited a number of museums about nature with taxidermy, but KU’s Natural History Museum (1345 Jayhawk Blvd) is probably one of the best. For a $7 suggested donation, you will gain access to four floors of phenomenal exhibits that teach visitors about the planet and specifically the Great Plains.

Be sure to look UP when you walk into the museum.

Take my advice and start on the sixth floor and work your way down. One of my favorite exhibits is the live bees and reptiles section of the museum. The Bee Tree is a live colony that you can watch at work housed in the model of a tree. The bees fly from outside into a tunnel that leads them to the hive indoors. Don’t worry. You can’t get stung! But it will surely ignite your curiosity.

Mammal skulls and taxidermy dominate much of the museum’s exhibits. Explore the glass cases to learn about the biodiversity of birds of prey and how they’ve adapted to life on the prairie. I imagine you won’t find a larger collection of waterfowl taxidermy elsewhere.

The fifth floor of the museum allows visitors to examine a Mosasaur and learn more about evolution. The fourth floor contains a massive collection of animals displayed in their natural habitat. From arctic animals to the Rocky Mountains and prairie to the rain forest, visitors are asked to think about how animals adapted and survived in each climate.

A high-quality museum, it is a place where visitors of all ages can explore nature from an indoor setting. Ask for Discover Guides at the front desk before starting your self-guided tour. They are ideal for families and each guide is tailored to a specific age group. To view the museum’s hours and plan your visit, check out their website here.

DINNER

715 Restaurant

Just as I was about to step out for dinner from the hotel, it began to rain. Since it was coming down pretty hard, I decided to drive versus walking to 715 Restaurant (715 Massachusetts St.) for dinner. I had visited the restaurant previously but only for cocktails, so I was thrilled to return to experience the European-style dinner menu.

When dining room space is limited, look for a space at the bar. Reservations are not required but you can expect the restaurant to be busy. If you want to make a reservation, you can do so easily online.

Illuminated by elegant candles and a backlit wall of green glass, the restaurant welcomes patrons in search of a relaxing yet refined setting. They also offer patio dining, a great option for Happy Hour starting at 3 pm, if the weather permits.

Chef Kelly Conwell’s ever-changing menu consists of American and Italian dishes. Some of the entreés on a recent menu included Parisian Gnocchi, Crab Ravioli, and Roasted Bone Marrow. Simplified but elevated dishes such as Steak Salad and Spaghetti & Meatballs also made an appearance.

I ordered the Charcuterie board that came with domestic and imported cured meats, olives, mustard, and crostini. Because it lacked artisan cheeses, I ordered a small plate of aged cheddar and soft cheese to accompany it. Paired with the Liquid Gold cocktail, it was delightfully appetizing. The rum-based drink was hand-crafted with pineapple, spices, apricot, and orange.

Parking along Massachusetts in front of the restaurant is metered parking and there are two-hour-free covered garages downtown as well.

Visit 715 Restaurant for an upscale dining experience that promises to exceed your expectations. Tempt your tastebuds by viewing their menus in advance of your arrival here.

Lawrence will always hold a special place in my heart. Touring the KU campus offers visitors a chance to fall in love with its many attractions. Whether you’re a sports fan or simply love touring historical museums, I know you’ll find your experience on campus to be a positive one.

Bus tickets are only $1 and rates are reduced for students and seniors. I’d recommend packing comfortable walking shoes and strolling campus instead, if possible.

If you’d like to take a historical tour of Lawrence, which includes details about the events surrounding the Civil War, visit an additional blog post I wrote here. It showcases the historic Eldridge Hotel, Watkins Museum of History, and prominent landmarks in Lawrence.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: 715 Restaurant, Allen Field House, autumn, basketball, Bob Dole, Booth Hall of Athletics, campus, college, DeBruce Center, fine dining, Jayhawk, Johnny's Tavern, Massachusetts Street, McLain's Market, monuments, Naismith, natural history, nature, Northeast Kansas, politics, Spencer Museum of Art, The Oread, university, University of Kansas

The Ultimate Overnight Stay in Topeka, Kansas

November 19, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

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

Topeka, Kansas is a city that intrigues me. It’s a metropolis of doers, makers, and creative people. Its attractions reflect a spirit of progress. I was impressed by its eclectic arts scene, restaurant options, and historical museums. When given the chance to Exit I-70 to Topeka and stay overnight, do it. You won’t be disappointed.

The view of downtown Topeka from the Cyrus Hotel's outdoor lounge. The state capital is located within walking distance.

BREAKFAST

The first stop on my travel itinerary took me to Judee’s Coffee (2111 SW Chelsea Dr.). I heard that the coffee shop was highly recommended for serving the kind of coffee connoisseurs rave about.

As I drove up to the building, I saw shoppers milling around a nearby business looking at furniture on display. Some people were exiting with full shopping bags while others were excitedly making their way inside. It was a thrift shop. Very cool.

Judee’s Coffee is located adjacent to God’s Storehouse, a massive store housing gently used household goods and apparel. Just my luck. I could enjoy breakfast and then shop for antique glass and vintage jewelry afterward.

The barista crafted the perfect chai latté for me. The cafe smelled of freshly baked peanut butter cookies while I sipped my drink and watched shoppers peruse the shelves. Quiche, homemade tarts, and cookies sat in the pastry case waiting for someone to enjoy. A line formed at the counter.

To my surprise, the cafe’s menu prices were quite reasonable. A brown sugar latte on the seasonal board was only $2. Considering they serve Oddly Correct coffee from Kansas City, it was a real value. Later, I chatted with the employees and learned that the cafe’s menu prices are set low to make good coffee accessible to everyone. They refer to it as “generosity at its best.”

That’s a mission that I can get behind, and I’m sure you can as well. When in Topeka, consider driving to Judee’s Coffee for a breakfast treat before a morning of shopping. View the cafe’s hours here.

KANSAS MUSEUM OF HISTORY

Since I was less than a 10-minute drive from the award-winning Kansas Museum of History (6425 SW. 6th Ave.), I set out to discover the stories of the people and places that make the Sunflower State unique. For the price of a $10 adult admission, I gained access to exceptional exhibits. In fact, it’s one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas History.

The best way to appreciate the collections is to start in the Early People exhibit and work your way through to the museum to the Recent Past. Along the way, you’ll learn how Native Americans settled in areas of Kansas, the impact of the Civil War on the state’s people, and the tragic story of Bleeding Kansas.

This is a mini version of an earth lodge like the one on display at the Pawnee Indian Museum historic site in Republic County, a finalist in the 8 Wonders of Kansas History.
Did you know that settlers left their treasures behind or along the roadside to make the trek across the country easier? They only took about 6 months of clothes with them.

A full-size covered wagon helps you to imagine what it must have been like to travel as a family and settle on the frontier. As you meander into the largest room, you’ll discover the impact of passenger trains on the state’s economy. Later, exhibits featuring artifacts of the early 20th Century set the scene while you listen to the voice of the state’s most distinguished soldier, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, as he delivers a speech.

The final exhibit features pop culture artifacts from the recent past. It’s an immersive experience. Sit down in the 1950s dinner. Gaze at the glass shadow boxes filled with fast food artifacts. Think back to the early days of Big Cheese Pizza and White Castle, NuWAY, and Pizza Hut. Which Kansas restaurant was your favorite as a child?

When was the last time you enjoyed a burger and milkshake while sitting at a diner’s counter?

One of the highlights of touring the museum was seeing John Brown’s chair. It was the same one he sat in while keeping watch from Charles Smith’s farmhouse on the Underground Railroad. Additionally, the hatchet of the infamous bar room smasher Carry Nation is on display at the museum, which I always wanted to see up close.

Other displays you might appreciate include walking through Santa Fe’s oldest surviving locomotive and standing underneath the first Kansas-built plane from 1911.

“I have only a short time to live – only one death to die, and I will die fighting for this cause. There will be no more peace in this land until slavery is done for.” – John Brown, 1856.

Set aside at least an hour to take a self-guided tour of the Kansas History Museum. If you bring little kids with you, ask the visitor’s desk about interactive trivia game that makes their experience through the museum just as enjoyable as yours. View the museum’s hours and admission prices here.

NOTO ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

It was time to drive back toward downtown. First, I took a detour to the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District in North Topeka for a walk-thru its many art galleries during First Friday. Known for its large collection of street art and eclectic shops, it attracts locals and tourists in search of culture.

I started my tour of the historic district by ducking inside the NOTO Art Center (935 N. Kansas Ave.) to get my bearings. While there, I discovered a quaint gallery space featuring a tribute to the city’s green spaces, “See Topeka.” Did you know that the Top City is home to 109 public parks? Paintings inspired by travel posters showcase many of the parks from Ted Ensley Gardens to Animaland.

Redbud Park across from the NOTO Art Center features a gazebo and a Topeka postcard mural.

I encourage you to visit NOTO on the First Friday of the month to appreciate paintings, sculptures, and metalwork by regional artists. Each independent gallery sets its own hours but they all stay open late on First Friday. If you’re an artist, you’ll definitely feel at home here.

Visitors also enjoy the quirky antique stores and inviting eateries that make up the restored neighborhood. You’ll likely need a couple of hours to truly shop the stores because each one is stocked full of collectibles and uniquely individual pieces. If you’re someone who drools over mid-century furniture, step inside of Eclectic Designs. Stores like Kaw River Rustics, Pinkadilly, and Corner Market are worth shopping at for home decor finds.

Kaw River Rustics

If hunger sets in while shopping, I recommend grabbing a bite to eat at The Wheel Barrel (925 N. Kansas Ave.) known for award-winning grilled cheese artisan sandwiches. Check the sidewalk board for the day’s specials. Norseman Brewing Company (830 N. Kansas Ave.) serves a full menu of craft beer selections and hearty meals in a dimly lit taproom made for Vikings.

Street art and oversize murals make NOTO Arts & Entertainment District a must-stop. Notable murals include brightly colored scenes of animals, dreamscapes, and flowers. You’ll stop in your tracks when you see the building that doubles as a massive mosaic. It’s covered with intricately placed, tiny pieces of colored glass.

Make sure to look for the golden “Bull Giraffe” located in Breezeway Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the murals with flying pigs, prancing elephants, and be sure to trek across the rainbow crosswalk.

LUNCH

The Pennant (915 S. Kansas Ave.) is not your typical burger joint. It’s a two-story destination for fun that just happens to serve tasty burgers and milkshakes. It’s also a bowling alley, bar, and retro arcade. Stepping inside the restored historic building is like transporting back to your childhood when all you dreamed about was a day of play and yummy treats.

Famished from a morning of exploring the city, I dined on the Pennant Original Burger topped with everything with a side fries (don’t forget the truffle sauce for dipping). If you’re craving it, you’ll find it on the menu. Homemade chili three ways. Patty melts. Milkshakes topped with cupcakes and sprinkles. Most patrons leave the restaurant with a box because they don’t want to leave a bite behind.

The Pennant was voted the Best of The Best Topeka “All-Around Restaurant” three years in a row.

Before you visit The Pennant you need to bring three things: an appetite, your A-game, and a roll of quarters to play Space Invaders or Pac-Man in the retro arcade. Plan your visit and view their hours here.

BROWN V. BOARD OF EDUCATION NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

There was just one more place I had to explore before checking into my hotel. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site (1515 SE Monroe St.) is listed on the Civil Rights Trail recognized as a place where the events that happened there changed the world.

The day Monroe Elementary School opened in 1927, it was was a racially segregated school. Parents of several students joined others in Topeka as plaintiffs in the Brown v. Board of Education lawsuit against the “separate but equal” doctrine, which was eventually ruled as a violation of the 14th Amendment by the United States Supreme Court.

Having been a product of the bussing system as a child in the 1980s and a high school teacher later in life, I felt chill bumps walking through Monroe Elementary School during my self-guided tour.

Visitors should start their tour inside the gymnasium to watch a 30-minute introductory film explaining the climate of the civil rights era and the case that ended legal segregation in public schools. Afterward, you can walk inside each classroom dedicated to the timeline of events. The upstairs is closed to visitors.

I was moved to tears as I watched videos of civil unrest. I imagined what it was like to be a student at Monroe Elementary School. A visit to the historic site is one that is well spent and it is certainly a memorable one.

If you have questions upon entering the school, I recommend asking the knowledgeable National Park Service ranger on site. To view the museum’s hours, plan you visit here. Admission is free. Tip: Don’t miss the mural directly across the street painted by Kansas City artist Michael Toombs that commemorates the landmark Supreme Court decision.

LODGING

The state’s capital city is host to many hotels, but I had my eye on one in particular that I heard was beyond measure.

Cyrus Hotel (920 S. Topeka Ave.) is a modern boutique hotel that recently opened in downtown Topeka. Luxury rooms, elegant restaurant and bar, and close proximity to top attractions make it a solid choice for lodging in the capital city. When people ask where I stayed overnight in Topeka, I can’t wait to rave about the hotel.

The building is over 100 years old, but you can’t tell from its up-to-date style. Hip furnishings with brass finishes are the backdrop for well-designed spaces throughout the hotel. My corner room had floor-to-ceiling windows that provided stunning views of downtown, especially at night when the skyline was aglow.

I found the in-room amenities to be exceptional. The interior design included built-in storage and an oversized desk. A frequent traveler, I appreciated the convenience of having a refrigerator, Keurig coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi access in the room. When it was time to retire for the night, I loved the luxurious bed linens. Cyrus Hotel considered every detail when designing a space for ultimate relaxation.

Hotels guests will appreciate the lounge with a fire pit in the courtyard. Ready for dinner and drinks? You don’t have to leave the hotel to find an excellent dining option. Fedeli’s Steak & Pasta Restaurant & Bar serves classic fine dining in a sophisticated setting. They’re known for locally-sourced steaks, but I was craving Linguine Carbonara. The dish met every expectation and then some.

As I sat at the clothed table enjoying my meal and sipping on an espresso martini, I felt as if I had been transported outside of Kansas to New York City. To top off the experience, I indulged in an after-dinner drink, a classic Old Fashion. Swanky, indeed.

For guests who would prefer to enjoy breakfast at the hotel, it is served from 6:30am-10:30am downstairs. One of my favorite Topeka restaurants, The Pennant, is located across the street and they will also deliver a meal to you at the hotel via guest services.

If you get the opportunity to choose your accommodations for an overnight stay in Topeka, I hope you’ll choose the Cyrus Hotel. Not only does it make for a comfortable stay in the heart of the city, but the amenities spoil you. Did I mention it is also pet-friendly and street parking is free from 5pm-9am? It just keeps getting better.

That’s exactly what you can expect from an overnight visit to Topeka. Every destination, restaurant, and neighborhood will surprise you. It’s a city that works hard to evolve and progress. It’s more than the home of the Kansas Statehouse, it’s a travel destination with unparalleled attractions that you need to experience for yourself.

With more than enough to do in Topeka, an overnight stay is simply not enough time to experience it all. I look forward to visiting the Topeka Zoo, Mulvane Art Museum, and Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Park.

Are you ready to book your overnight stay at the Cyrus Hotel and explore Topeka? Leave your travel questions for me in the comments below.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: art district, Brown v. Board of Education, burger, capital, cocktails, coffee shop, Cyrus Hotel, fine dining, First Friday, galleries, historic site, Italian, Kansas, Kansas History Museum, luxury hotel, mural, museum, NOTO, statehouse, street art, The Pennant, thrift store, Topeka

Ambassador Hotel Wichita: A Luxury Hotel Experience Near Fabulous Downtown Attractions

July 27, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Ambassador Hotel Wichita sponsored this post, however, all opinions are my own. All of the photos were taken by me. 

Not all hotel experiences are memorable, then again, not all hotels are the Ambassador Hotel Wichita (104 S. Broadway).

A stunning boutique hotel in downtown Wichita, it caters to travelers looking for a sophisticated experience surrounded by luxury. The award-winning hotel touts a long list of amenities making it a sought-after choice for overnight accommodations in the city.

Located in the heart of downtown near entertainment venues, it is within walking distance of historic neighborhoods Old Town and the Delano District. The building also has a rich legacy of its own.

hotel lobby fireplace

HISTORY

Once home to the Union National Bank and Dockum Drug Store in 1926, it opened as Ambassador Hotel Wichita eight decades later. Fourteen stories tall, it was considered the tallest building in Kansas when it was completed. In addition to its architectural significance, the building also has historical value. It was the site of a student-led sit-in in 1958 at the Dockum Drug Store led by African Americans in an effort to end segregation. Not long after the students were finally served at the store’s soda fountain, Rexall stores across the nation followed suit, desegrated, and changed their policies in stores throughout Kansas.

hotel lobby

LOCATION

They say location is everything. The Ambassador’s proximity to some of Wichita’s best attractions is part of what makes it a desirable choice for an overnight or weekend stay. If you’re someone who loves to explore downtown areas by foot or by free trolley, I recommend booking a hotel room. As soon as you step outside the lobby doors, the sounds of downtown Wichita invite you to experience the fun.

Ambassador Hotel Wichita

HOTEL  AMENITIES

Finding a parking space and checking into the hotel is easy. I drove into a nearby parking garage and traded my paper ticket for a hotel-issued parking card at check-in. After checking into my room, I toured the hotel. It’s something I like to do to get a lay of the land. I discovered an elaborately decorated lobby ornamented with oversized chandeliers and modern furniture.

Are you someone who seeks out a hotel with a fitness center? I’m more of a yoga kinda gal, but I appreciated that the hotel’s gym was filled with a variety of machines and racks of free weights. For hotel guests who need to work while they’re traveling, the lobby has a sundrenched workspace with all the necessities of an office.

fitness room

ROOM AMENITIES

I can’t say enough about the level of luxury at the hotel. My experience was delightful, and I especially appreciated the Premium Corner King room. It was incredibly spacious as compared to other downtown hotels I’ve stayed in. Sunlight flooded the room thanks to oversized windows on nearly every wall. Elegant furniture and decorative finishes created an inviting space. The deluxe room would be an ideal choice for a couple or business traveler wanting comfort matched by luxury.

Premium Corner King hotel room

The room’s amenities include a flatscreen TV, liquor pantry, coffee cart with snacks, and an Alexa personal assistant. For those who need to get work down during their stay, the in-room desk is large enough for a laptop and then some.

Traveling for pleasure? The hotel offers various room service packages, which can include a bottle of wine or champagne with an upgrade. Just imagine yourself relaxing in a plush king-sized bed wearing a soft robe while enjoying a meal from bed. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?

For me, it was the details of a hotel experience that make it worthwhile. From oversized bath towels and feather pillows to high-speed WiFi and a comfy couch, the Premium Corner King room provided everything I wanted and more. After exploring downtown Wichita, it was just the kind of room I wanted to return to at the end of the day.

hotel room bed

DINING + DRINKS

Thankfully, I didn’t have to travel far for an incredible meal. Siena Tuscan Steakhouse, located on the hotel’s first floor, is a fine dining restaurant that serves locally inspired cuisine.

The impeccable menu changes seasonally. My server told me that a considerable amount of attention is given to the quality of the food they serve from sourcing the ingredients to crafting the recipes – even the mushrooms are farmed daily. My meal was exceptional.

Siena Tuscan Steakhouse

Italian music played as I dined on an appetizer board of chef-selected meats and cheeses. I particularly loved the Italian herb cheese and the fresh made-in-house peach jam. The board was large enough for two to three people to enjoy before ordering dinner with a bottle of wine.

Just around the corner from the restaurant’s dining room, I heard people chatting and glasses clanking. Siena’s bar area was full of hotel guests, mostly business travelers, sipping on wine and cocktails. If I were traveling for work or simply needed a place to meet a colleague for a drink, the lounge area would be my go-to spot.

meat and cheese board

After devouring my delicious meal, I followed the signs leading to the bottom level of the hotel. I was led into a candlelit foray with a mysterious wooden door. I had arrived at Dockum, a speakeasy known for serving exquisite hand-crafted cocktails.

The moment I entered the dimly lit space I was greeted by the sound of jazz music and a visually stunning room. Pendant lights with old-fashioned mercury bulbs and a large collection of candles illuminated the space. I nestled into my table. It was as if I had been transported to the Prohibition era when gangsters used secret taverns to sell illegal alcohol.

Dockum speakeasy

The speakeasy pays homage to the building’s history while providing guests ambiance they won’t find anywhere else in the city. According to Dockum, the rules for enjoying the bar are simple, “Be good to us and we’ll spoil you.” It was definitely my kind of tavern.

I ordered Dockum’s Smoking Gun, a signature cocktail made with Tin Cup Whiskey, brown sugar simple syrup, blackberry shrub, and whiskey barrel-aged bitters. I highly recommend this cocktail not only for its taste but also so you can watch it being made. The bartender aka “pharmacist” crafts it by flaming the shrub’s smoke directly into a small bottle filled with spirits. The magic continues tableside as the server pours the smoky concoction into a glass of ice and lights an orange peel to finish it.

speakeasy cocktail

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

When you stay downtown at the hotel, you are within a short distance of one-of-kind attractions from public art to event venues. As soon exit the lobby’s doors, you’re only steps from a Wichita transit trolley or electric bus stop that can take you to them. It’s also an easy walk for hotel guests who would rather stroll the city’s urban core.

Art Lovers

Douglas Avenue is the home to beautiful works of art. The city commissioned 31 life-size bronze sculptures by Washington artist, Georgia Gerber, which appear on four blocks of downtown sidewalks. They sit right alongside oversized planters overflowing with colorful botanicals making the self-guided tour a delightful one. Which bronze sculpture will be your favorite? It’s hard to pick just one. I encourage you to seek out Dockum Lunch Counter Sit-In, which is representative of the historical moments that took place where the Ambassador is located today.

Street art is a bonus surprise for visitors to Wichita. Douglas Avenue Art Days is a collection of murals that make vibrant backdrops for selfies.  How many will you discover? To view them all, download the app for access to a map and plot your course.

One of my favorite places to view artwork in the city is the Wichita Art Museum. It sits in the Museums on the River district near Riverside Park. The museum houses award-winning paintings, sculptures, and they always have rotating exhibitions featuring the work of well-renowned artists. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden featuring one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art, “Dreamers Awake” by Tom Otterness. Another indoor space to view art, much of which is usually the work of talented regional artists, is CityArts. After viewing its gallery, I suggest renting a scooter or bike from a nearby station to tour the sculptures on display in Old Town between Douglas and Second streets.

On your way back to the hotel, make a stop at our city’s iconic steel sculpture, the Keeper of the Plains. If you visit it at night, you can see it illuminated from the light of fiery cauldrons that burn every 15 minutes starting at 9 pm in the spring and summer and 7 pm in the fall and winter.

Keeper of the Plains

Adventure Seekers

If you haven’t experienced the newly constructed Riverfront Stadium, it’s time. The ballpark is home to the minor league Double-A affiliate team, Wichita Wind Surge. Baseball fans pack the stands to listen to the crack of the bats and the roar of the crowd.

Riverfront Stadium

Hockey fans visiting the area must experience an action-packed Wichita Thunder hockey game at Intrust Bank Arena. The venue is only two blocks from the Ambassador. The energy of the arena comes alive as our team battles on the ice against visiting opponents. Don’t be surprised if you see Wichitans passionately beating on the ice rink’s glass in support of their favorite team.

Blade and Timber, located in the historic Delano District, is a great place to test one’s axe-throwing skills and “unleash your inner lumberjack.” Why not make it a competition amongst friends and see who’s axe lands closest to the bullseye?

Are you thinking of traveling with family to downtown Wichita? Lace-up your skates at the Wichita Ice Center across the street from Riverfront Stadium. It’s an ideal place to cool off indoors on a hot summer day and practicing pirouettes.

Music Lovers

When not hosting the city’s hockey team, Intrust Bank Arena showcases live music from big-name artists from the likes of George Strait, Foo Fighters, and Pink. I can’t think of a better hotel to stay at downtown if you’re planning to attend a concert than the Ambassador. You can walk to the venue in five minutes and get there just in time for the show to start.

If you’re interested in catching a local band at a smaller venue, consider walking to Wave, Barleycorn’s, Mort’s Martini & Cigar Bar, or Vorshay’s Cocktail Lounge – three of the venues are located in historic downtown Wichita buildings.

Shopping Seekers

You don’t have to go far from the hotel to spot boutique shops and remarkable retail stores. One of the best places that I like to direct out-of-towners is Hatman Jack’s in the Delano District where shoppers have enjoyed custom hat fittings for the last four decades. Other fantastic finds in the historic district include All Things BBQ, Zeep Bath, Sweet N’ Saucy, and Bungalow 26.

Delano District

Family-Friendly 

Staying at the hotel with kids? The city’s center is home to several family-friend places to explore and have fun. Take my advice and take the family to Exploration Place. The science center gives museum-goers of all ages hands-on experience interacting with exhibits such as Design Build Fly and Where Kids Rule. Feel like getting some fresh air and enjoying a wide-open space? Naftzger Park is a scenic space/entertainment venue in downtown Wichita. If you’re lucky, you might catch a movie in the park while you’re there during the summer. Nearby, I recommend stopping into Peace, Love, & Pie where they take homemade pie-making to another dimension. Grab a slice to go and enjoy it from the astroturf lawn at the park.

Peace Love & Pie

Nature Explorers

Another attraction that is considered a “happy place” for visitors is Botanica. Not your average city garden, it is an oasis in the middle of downtown Wichita. I love walking amongst their manicured landscapes to view an extensive variety of plants and flowers. The roses in the Shakespeare Garden will take your breath away. Kids and adults alike enjoy the whimsical discoveries found in the Downing Children’s Garden. Don’t miss a trip through the Butterfly House.

History Hunters

It wouldn’t be a complete tour of downtown’s finest attractions without a mention of Old Cowtown Museum. Locals and visitors alike have been going there for years to see what it must have been like on the frontier in the late 1860s and 1870s. I know you’ll appreciate touring over 50 authentic and recreated buildings that make up Cowtown. It’s an immersive experience you won’t find anywhere else. Be sure to step inside the saloon for a cold root beer or saunter over to the print shop to watch a letterpress at work.

There is no shortage of attractions beyond the doors of the Ambassador. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or a returning guest, the downtown area is the best place to experience what makes Wichita wonderful. Perhaps I’m a little biased since I’m a Wichitan, but I promise you’ll love your experience staying at Ambassador Hotel Wichita as well as the time spent in the downtown area.

Do you have questions about exploring Wichita’s downtown district? Want to learn more about the hotel? Drop a comment below. I’m always happy to give travel advice.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: ambassador, art, attractions, cocktails, concert, Delano, downtown, fine dining, hotel, live music, luxury, museum, Old Town, park, speakeasy, urban, venue, Wichita

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Ammar
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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