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Goodland

The Road is Calling: KS I-70 West

September 19, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

If ever there was a calling to “Go west!” and discover places you’ve never visited, it’s a Kansas road trip on KS I-70 from Abilene to Goodland. The best part for you? You don’t have to do the research – I’ve done it for you. Carve out some vacation time, fuel up the car, and GO. You don’t have to search for what makes Kansas great. It’s right here in these towns.

ABILENE

The childhood home of U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Abilene is one of the most patriotic towns in Kansas. Take a detour off of KS I-70 to discover the heritage of the town starting at Seelye Mansion, an impressive home built in 1905 that is now listed as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture. After the guided tour, appreciate the town’s history with a train ride on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, uncover the past at Old Abilene Town, and tour the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum (temporarily closed). The fun continues at the Greyhound Hall of Fame where visitors learn about the sport of dog racing.

The downtown district is home to Little Ike Park, quaint shops, and a host of dining options. Ortus Café and Gallery serves crepes and The Hitching Post Restaurant and Saloon is known for daily specials like chicken fried steak and hearty sandwiches. Leave room for dessert to enjoy the chocolates you purchase from Russell Stovers’ retail store. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

Built in 1905, the Seelye Mansion has 11 bedrooms, a bowling alley, a grand piano, and just about everything is gold-painted everything. The cost at the time to build it? $55,000.

SALINA

Salina is one cool place. Festivals, food, and fantastic artwork make it worthy of a stop along KS I-70. With so much to do, I recommend an overnight stay. Begin your day of exploring by checking out SculptureTour Salina, Mural at the Mill, and head indoors at Salina Art Center. Just when you think you’ve seen all of downtown, Rebecca Jane’s offers the best boutique shopping in town.

If visiting during the Smoky Hill River Festival, you’re bound to discover more artwork, live music, and concessions food.

Eat as the locals do at the historic Cozy Inn for slider burgers or stop by Blue Skye Brewery & Eats for non-traditional pizza and craft beer. Another tasty dining option is La Casita. Go for the Chile Relleños. Wait! Before heading home from Salina, make sure to order a cup of joe and a pastry from Moka’s Coffee. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

Cozy Inn was voted by Google as a Top Rated Burger and Best Burger Joint in Kansas 2012 from USA Today.

RUSSELL + SURROUNDING AREA

What a place! Before exiting to Russell, visit Wilson to check out the World’s Largest Czech Egg and then make the short drive on K-232 along Post Rock Scenic Byway to Wilson Lake for an epic view. I recommend continuing the journey into Lucas, Kansas. The town’s residents have made this artsy town exactly what they intended it to be, a place where creativity flourishes. Don’t miss Bowl Plaza, Grassroots Arts Center, The Garden of Eden and Cabin, and Miller’s Park for eye-opening displays.

Drive 40 minutes west to Russell, Senator Bob Dole’s hometown. The agriculture and petroleum-producing town has a lot to offer visitors. Check out casual dining at The Bar or Waudby’s Sports Bar & Grill, go mural hunting, tour restored limestone homes, and visit Memorial Park. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

Dream Theatre in downtown Russell promises a good time. Balcony seats rumble during action-packed movies. Enjoy comfy recliners on the lower level while you snack on concessions stand goodies. The theatre was one of the first ones in Western Kansas to go to digital projection and 3D movies are available.

HAYS

A one-time frontier town that is now a modern college town, Hays guarantees visitors an entertaining stay. Discover the history of Wild Bill Hickock, walk The Bricks of Downtown Hays to trace the history of old buildings on a self-guided walking tour, and track down all of the Pete Felten limestone sculptures around town. Keep your eyes peeled for shops and boutiques while walking the area.

Science lovers appreciate touring the KSU Agricultural Research Center and Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Each one is worth your time and makes for a memorable experience.

Shop and dine in downtown Hays surrounded by restored historic buildings, public art, and towering limestone churches. Enjoy breakfast at Breathe Coffee House, sip a mid-day glass of wine with cheese at Paisley Pear Wine Bar, and then top off the day with dinner at Gella’s Diner and LB Brewing Co. Staying overnight? Consider Defiance Brewing Company (Downtown) and Trip Tap House as top-notch dining options. Don’t forget to make time to visit the Ellis County Historical Museum before leaving town. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

Sternberg Museum’s paleontology collection has more than 400,000 vertebrate and invertebrate specimens, a massive mineral collection, 100,000 paleobotanical artifacts, more zoology specimens than you can count.

WAKEENEY

WaKeeney reminds me of Mayberry, a quintessential All-American place beaming with hometown pride. Also known as The Christmas City of the High Plains for its North Pole attraction open year-round, WaKeeney rolls out the red carpet for visitors. Travelers enjoy dining at Hometown Bakery and Western Kansas Saloon & Grill when they’re not sipping on a vanilla coke at an old-fashioned soda fountain downtown. History buffs appreciate the Trego County Courthouse, Kansas Veteran’s Cemetary, and Trego Historical Society Museum.

Keep the good times rolling as you explore Shiloh Vineyard & Winery, stroll the town’s parks, take a dip in the swimming pool, and shop downtown at Studio 128. Don’t leave WaKeeney without shopping for a keepsake Christmas ornament at Gibson’s Healthmart! Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

Looking for lodging? Stay at 1909 Cottage House (510 Warren Ave.) located off the town’s square within walking distance of shopping, dining, and historical landmarks.

OAKLEY

Oh my, Oakley is fun! Exit KS I-70 to discover attractions like Buffalo Bill Cultural Center. Why? Buffalo Bill Cody is the town’s claim to fame. Take your photo with the oversized bronze sculpture and learn about the buffalo hunter’s history as well as the region’s many treasures there. Continue your historical exploration to Fick Fossil & History Museum to view artifacts and artwork. One of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, Monument Rocks, gives tourists incredible views of sedimentary rock formed during the Cretaceous period 80 million years ago. Head to Keystone Gallery to hear the stories of fossil hunters, view their findings, and shop the retail store.

Feeling hungry? Locals love Sunshine Bakery for its fresh donuts and specialty coffee drinks. Buffalo Bill’s Bar and Grill serves pub grub and Oakley Country Club & Golf Course’s menu includes everything from sandwiches to steaks. Make time to shop downtown for souvenirs or home decor at Everything’s-a-Bloomin’. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

Over 100 million years ago during the Cretaceous era, Kansas was covered by a vast ocean. Monument Rocks is what remains today. Take a turn off KS I-70 at Oakley and make your way to the amazing natural rock formation.

COLBY

Are you in search of hometown charm and plenty of fun things to do? Look no further than Colby, Kansas. The western Kansas town’s visitors center should be your first stop to plan the rest of your day. Travel down the road to the Prairie Museum of Art and History, one of Colby’s top attractions, to learn the story of living on the high plains.

Other worthwhile stops in town include the Colby Aquatic Center (kids will love the slides!) and Colby Event Center, a new facility that hosts concerts and sports competitions. If you prefer a low-key afternoon spent shopping and dining, start at Maevis & Magpie before making your way to City Limits Bar & Grill for downhome eats. End your day with a relaxing walk through Fike Park. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

The largest barn in Kansas, Cooper Barn stands 66′ wide, 114′ long, and 48′ high. It was voted one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture. See it and more at the Prairie Museum of Art History in Colby.

GOODLAND

Exiting KS I-70 to visit Goodland is a great idea. The town offers magnificent art, museum tours, and an updated downtown scene. Of course, you must visit the World’s Largest Easel Painting, a replica of Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers,” which towers behind the visitors center. If you love art, make your way to the Goodland Carnegie Arts Center, take a stroll downtown to discover massive murals, and appreciate the detail of art deco architecture. To learn more about the town’s history including America’s first patented helicopter, enjoy free admission at High Plains Museum. For travelers interested in touring a historic home, the Ennis-Handy Victorian House transports you back in time to see how residents once lived.

Take a break from tours to support small businesses like Lou Lou’s Boutique or Mor Mor’s Antiques. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, Good Grounds Coffee Shop & Bistro offers diners light breakfast and lunch options. Crazy R’s Bar & Grill is where the locals go to enjoy a juicy hamburger and freshly made onion rings. While waiting for your meal, take time to walk around the restaurant to appreciate the antiques on display. Get a full itinerary of this trip here.

The Director of Goodland Carnegie Arts Center, Abby Killingsworth, and a team of artists recently completed this mural “Ad Astra” downtown. Do you see the flying helicopter?

Kansas I-70 aka “America’s Main Street” is your connection to incredible destinations to explore as you head west on the interstate. Plan a seven-day trip to visit all of these towns or take a spontaneous detour and explore one of them. No matter how you plan your trip, the journey is definitely worth your time. Grab your keys and take to the road.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: Abilene, Colby, Goodland, Hays, highway, interstate, Kansas, Kansas I-70, Lucas, Oakley, road, road trip, roadside, Russell, Salina, WaKeeney, Western Kansas, Wilson Lake

Must-See Destinations in Goodland, Kansas

September 6, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

Good things are happening in Goodland. Having never visited this western Kansas town, I was shocked at how much it had to offer. Established in 1887, it continues to offer residents and visitors fabulous options for entertainment. On any given day, you can experience magnificent art, museum tours, and an updated downtown scene.

LODGING

Goodland has excellent hotels located just off KS I-70. I stayed at the newly opened Holiday Inn Express & Suites (2725 Enterprise Rd.), which receives high accolades on social media for its comfortable amenities. The hotel truly rolls out the red carpet for guests.

My second-floor room included a small foray, king size bed, drink station with mini fridge, microwave, work desk, and an oversized bathroom. When you need a quiet, luxurious room to unwind after driving, this hotel knocks it out of the park. It’s the little things that make it special. I turned on the TV to see a message on the screen waiting for me, “Welcome to Goodland, Vanessa!” Wow.

The hotel accommodations also included a complimentary full breakfast. Other on-site perks included a state-of-the-art fitness center, snack counter, and free Wi-Fi. When in Goodland, choose the Holiday Inn Express & Suites for an overnight stay.

ATTRACTIONS

PUBLIC ART

Most Kansans have heard of the Giant Van Gogh, the World’s Largest Easel Painting. If you haven’t seen it, it’s worth taking Exit 17 into Goodland from KS I-70. The 24’x34′ replica of the artist’s sunflower painting sits directly behind the town’s visitor’s center. It was erected on site on June 19, 2001. A must-see attraction, it’s easy to walk up to it using the brick-lined sidewalk and get a glimpse. You can expect to see other tourists taking selfies and photos of it.

The mural pictured below, “Rural Free Delivery,” was painted by Kenneth Adams and installed in the Goodland, Kansas post office in 1937. The painting, along with others commissioned by The Section for Fine Arts, were created to lift the spirits of people who suffered during the Great Depression. It was one of almost 30 murals commissioned in Kansas.

The post office was built in 1935 and is listed on the state’s register of historic places. The interior is stunning, especially the original woodwork and door finishes.

You don’t have to look far to discover beautiful artwork and architecture in Goodland, Kansas. The Director of Goodland Carnegie Arts Center, Abby Killingsworth, and a team of artists recently completed this mural “Ad Astra” downtown. Do you see the flying helicopter? I think it’s a nod to the replica on display at High Plains Museum in the area.

ARCHITECTURE

Some Main Street districts in Kansas have architecture that invites you to get out of your car to see it up close. Goodland is that kind of town. Many of the buildings were designed using Art Deco style.  The United Telephone Building (10th and Main) is an architectural wonder thanks to its bright colors and intricate patterns. Built in 1931, its design includes terra cotta panels set off by Aztec artwork.

Another downtown structure that deserves your attention is Elliot’s Inc. (1019 Main St.), a building filled with home furnishings. The original color combination and Mid-Century modern styling stopped me in my tracks as I walked along the sidewalk across the street to view its architecture. What do you think of it?

Without a doubt, Goodland has one of the most good-looking courthouses in the state. The same Art Deco design that is seen on the United Telephone Building is evident on the Sherman County Courthouse. I love the arched windows over the entry doors and the grille pattern on the windows.

Located nearby the courthouse, “They Came to Stay” deserves a visit. The sculpture by Goodland native, Greg Todd, tells the story of homesteaders on the prairie and their determination to settle on the Kansas plains. Remember, settlers to the area didn’t find trees (no timber for building homes), so they were forced to build their homes using sod bricks formed by hand. It was hard work that required true grit.

ART MUSEUM

Carnegie Arts Center (120 W. 12th St.), once home to the town’s library, gives art lovers a chance to see rotating exhibits in its first-floor gallery. During my tour, I appreciated the work of Harley Torres’ exhibition “Cigarettes and Tea, a Study of Self.” The visual artist’s pieces are made with neutral colors were ceramics unlike anything that I’d ever seen before. I encourage you to visit the gallery and appreciate the work of regional artists like Torres during a self-guide tour. The center also has a small retail section devoted to selling Kansas-made gifts. To plan your visit, check their hours and admission fees here.

SHOPPING

If you’re cruising down the downtown area in search of a women’s clothing store, Lou Lou’s Boutique (110 E 11th St) is the best one in town. The highly-rated shop is known for friendly service and high-quality apparel. I thought the fashion-forward jeans and jewelry were affordably priced.

The two-room shop is stocked to the gills with on-trend home decor and gift items. During my visit, a local woman came in to chat and shop for a gift for someone. It’s the kind of place where you’re bound to leave with a full shopping bag. The owner is a sweetheart and is willing to help you find that perfect something for yourself or someone special.

Do you love to hunt down antiques? Goodland has a premiere antique mall that you should visit. Mor Mor’s Antiques (212 E. 17th St.) is just around the corner from the downtown district. Antique dealers sell their finds from rented booth spaces.

From glassware to seasonal decorations and old books to jewelry, you’ll discover it and more at Mor Mor’s. Some of the booths are also stocked with handcrafted gifts making it a one-stop shop if you’re seeking a present for someone. I recommend heading into the back room to view vintage signs and larger furniture pieces. I loved the massive chandelier pictured below.

MUSEUMS

To experience Goodland’s heritage, you only have to drive a short distance from downtown to the High Plains Museum (1717 Cherry St.). The museum curators have done an excellent job of telling the story of the people of western Kansas. The outside of the building is a bit misleading as one might think the only thing on display is an old helicopter. Not true!

During my visit, a traveling exhibit from the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, “Manufacturing Victory” was on display. Video testimonials, artifacts, and information walls covered in photography that showcases the men and women who dedicated their work to the cause.

Just beyond the WWII exhibit, I discovered a museum filled with treasures. The largest of them was a full-size, automated replica of the first patented helicopter in America. Push the button and watch the blades go! Inspired by the Wright brothers, William Purvis and Charles Wilson built the two-story helicopter in Goodland. The 1910 design was an ambitious one. The helicopter’s full-size version never flew vertically and eventually crashed. Even though a patent was released for its design about the same time, the two men returned to their day jobs after realizing the helicopter project was unsuccessful.

A 1902 Holsman rope-driven car is the second largest exhibit in the museum. It was the first automobile driven in Sherman County and was owned by Dr. A.C. Gulick. The car was meticulously restored. A prominent figure in the community at the time, you will still see the name displayed in town including a city park that is named after him.

Of the 8,000 objects on display, a few left me thinking about the early days of Goodland. It was the story of two train robbers. The criminal’s original black masks, gun, and a money box sit on display. During the early 1900s, the Jones Brothers boarded a Union Pacific Train east of Limon, Colorado and robbed its passengers while they slept. One man tried to stop the robbery and was killed. Eventually, the robbers made their way to Goodland on foot where they sought refuge on Bartholomew’s ranch. It was there that the Texas outlaws were shot dead by the Goodland Posse.

I consider museums an extended classroom, and High Plains Museum is one you should visit in Goodland. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are gladly accepted. Don’t forget to sign the guestbook!

The Ennis-Handy 1907 Victorian House (202 W. 13th St.) is a must-see destination worthy of a tour. The Sherman County Historical Society has worked diligently to restore and maintain the property. The two-story home has a colorfully painted exterior and ornate woodwork inside. Over the years, the home has seen a lot of changes.

The house dates back to 1907. Widowed and with daughters, Mary Ennis pushed forward with plans to build the home after her husband’s death. They resided there until 1917. Later, the home became a boarding house and then a funeral home. Eventually, Calvin Handy bought the home in 1956 and it stayed in the family until Edythe Handy died in 2000. (Fact: Edythe died in the home’s dining room. Ask more about that during your tour.)

Today, you can view the home’s craftsmanship first-hand and learn more about the influential families who resided in it. I appreciated the beautiful stained-glass windows above the front staircase and the second-floor patio.

DINING

There is no shortage of restaurant options when looking for a place to dine in Goodland. For breakfast, I’d recommend driving to the edge of town to Good Grounds Coffee Shop & Bistro (2402 Commerce Road). The drive-thru and lobby stay busy proving that it is one of the best places in town to enjoy a specialty coffee with breakfast.

The Vanilla Latte and Egg and Cheese Biscuit gave me the fuel I needed for a full day of exploring Goodland. If you’re in search of a substantial breakfast, check out the Daily Specials that often include full plate meals. The Bistro Originals chalkboard features hearty sandwiches and wraps if you’d like to stop there for lunch. I suggest viewing the unique artwork for sale on the gallery wall while you wait for your meal to be prepared. Free Wi-Fi is available.

I chose to enjoy a late lunch at Crazy R’s Bar & Grill (1618 Main St.). Several locals told me to visit the restaurant because it was “like a museum” and a “step back in time.” Of course, I had to check it out!

The owner, who also doubles as the cook, has filled the restaurant with antiques from floor to ceiling. Nothing is off limits at the bar and grill. Bicycles dangle above your head. Road signs cover the walls. The bar is an antique salvaged and transported from San Francisco.

I sat in a wooden booth and reviewed the menu. Did I have the appetite for the infamous pork tenderloin sandwich? It’s enough to feed two people. Instead, I ordered the Crazy R Burger and a side of homemade onion rings. An oldies radio station played in the background while locals stopped in for a mid-day meal. I look forward to returning to Goodland on a Wednesday to take advantage of the Prime Rib Special.

Because I wasn’t able to visit all the places I wanted to while in Goodland, I’ll plan to stop by again on my next KS I-70 road trip west from Wichita. I still want to check out McKinney’s Sweet Treats, the Sherman Theatre, Flatlander Fall Festival, and to hunt down the Giant Grasshopper, a roadside metal sculpture on Highway 27. Oh! And I want to try Go Goodland Bingo, a fun way to enter to win a gift card while exploring the town.

Have you visited Goodland? What other destinations should I add to my bucket list?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: antiques, architecture, art, Art Deco, boutique, ceramics, easel, Goodland, helicopter, historic, home, Kansas, Midwest, mural, museums, prairie, rural, Van Gogh, Western Kansas, WWII

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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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