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historic homes

A Weekend in Fort Dodge, Iowa: A Delightful Getaway

August 28, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Fort Dodge. All opinions and photos are mine. 

Fort Dodge, Iowa, is different from your typical Midwest town. It offers plenty of things to do that are out of the ordinary, making for a memorable and fun weekend stay. From a winery and breweries to artwork by world-renowned artists and outdoor recreation, it is worth adding to your travel bucket list.

It was named one of the top 15 America’s Best Communities and earned the designation of an “Iowa Great Place.”

Gazebo

We arrived in anticipation of a weekend itinerary full of one-of-a-kind places to discover and were not disappointed.

WHERE TO STAY

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS

Comfort meets convenience at Holiday Inn Express (300 S. 31st St.). We thought it was an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring Fort Dodge or in between adventures.

The four-story hotel has a host of amenities guaranteed to stay every kind of traveler, including families with kids searching for a hotel with a pool and sauna. The King Bed Guest Room was quiet, and the black-out shades, self-controlled air unit, and comfortable bedding kept the room oh so comfortable.

Holiday Inn Express Fort Dodge IowaPRO TIP: If traveling with a pet, ask the hotel staff to direct you to the pet walking area. Prepare to pay a pet deposit.

DAY 1

COMMUNITY ORCHARD

The best place to start your first day in Fort Dodge is at The Community Orchard (2237 160th St.). Open August 1-December 23, the orchard grows 5,000 trees and includes 15 varieties of apples. The farm is open for tours and hosts well-attended events like the Sunflower Festival, Apple Fest, and Corn Maze.

The Community Orchard Fort Dodge
The farm grows over a dozen varieties of apples, and some of the most popular varieties, including sweet Zestar, can be purchased by the bag.

Apples are the shining stars of the Community Orchard Cafe’s menu. I had to order their signature Scarecrow Soup with my Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich, an exceptionally delicious meal. Iowans love their Flat Apple Pie, so I enjoyed it for dessert – crave-worthy!

Community Orchard Cafe Fort Dodge
The Orchard Cafe is open 11 am-2 pm.

The maple dip served on harvested apple slices was so good I couldn’t stop talking about it.

Apple Pastry

I highly recommend giving into your sweet tooth and enjoying a freshly baked apple pastry. The café’s homemade fudge, available in multiple flavors, is worth sampling (ask for Salted Caramel, my favorite).

Homemade FudgeAfter lunch, we shopped the retail store downstairs, loading up on Sweet Corn Salsa and Maple Dip jars as well as a six-pack of Doc Otto’s Hard Cider. Customers will find it hard to resist sweet and salty bagged snacks, and the frozen pie case is irresistible. (The orchard dates back to the 1940s!)

goatsOutdoors, the Back 40 Playground is entertaining for kids of all ages. We interacted with friendly goats and snapped photos in the sunflower field and orchard like gleeful children.

They recently added a two-story slide – a sight to see- included with the Back 40 Playground admission.

SunflowersI appreciate the hard work and dedication that new owners Denny and Emily Stucky and their employees have put into maintaining and improving The Community Orchard, a favorite destination for locals and visitors searching for an immersive farm experience.

Big Rocking ChairPRO TIP: Check for upcoming seasonal events you don’t want to miss, including Donuts with Santa in December. Interested in shopping from the retail store from home? View the website to fill your cart.

SOLDIER CREEK WINERY

The five-minute drive to Soldier Creek Winery (1584 Paragon Ave.) is a must-have experience while in the area. The back story of the winery is incredible.

After a barn fire in 2008, the site became a 10-acre vineyard producing nine cold-hardy grapes. A family-owned and operated winery, it’s all hands on deck to turn out award-winning wine year after year.

Soldier Creek WineryAnne, the winemaker, introduced us to wines we never knew we liked but most certainly loved at the Tasting Bar. Our tasting experience included a short list of dry wines, starting with Ghost Pig (Apple Cider and Rosé Wine) and ending with Marquette 2021 Limited Release (Red). She explained how she uses only Iowa grapes to produce each handcrafted wine.

GrapevineAfter tasting six different wines, we enthusiastically raved about dry white Petite Amie 2022 (Best of Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair) and Marquette 2021 (Fruit-forward dry red). We were gleeful when she offered us a bottle of Marquette 2022 to bring back to Kansas.

wine bottlesAfter the tasting session, Anne gave us a tour of the winery’s newly expanded production facility and further explained the process of making wine from concept to harvest.

Whether you stop by for a formal tasting experience or only want to purchase a glass of wine ($6), you’ll walk away wishing you had signed up for the Paragon Wine Club.

The wine is that good.

wine glassAre you interested in a tasting experience? You can walk in during tasting room hours or make an appointment. I recommend reserving a tasting if traveling with a small group. Light snacks and non-boozy drinks are available to purchase, and they welcome DoorDash food deliveries.

PRO TIP: Visit the winery on Fridays from 6 pm -8 pm to enjoy live music year-round, a real draw for locals who are encouraged to bring their chairs and food to enjoy picnic-style. Check out their upcoming events, like Bingo at the Winery here.

SUNKISSED MEADOWS DISC GOLF COURSE

When it’s a beautiful day in Fort Dodge, you must spend time outdoors playing disc golf at Sunkissed Meadows (326 11th Ave.). The expansive 18-hold course is ideal for beginning or intermediate players who appreciate wide fairways with clear views of most baskets.

Disc Golf Fort Dodge IowaCreated in 2015, concrete tee pads and easily recognizable holes make the course simple to navigate without using the UDisc app. If you want to play the entire course, plan for 1.5-2 hours and be prepared to walk a course mostly without shade.

PRO TIP: Sunkissed Meadows is one of two disc courses in town. Check out Snell-Crawford Park (Williams Drive & 12 Ave. N.), built in 1976 and one of the country’s first 25 disc golf courses.

FORT DODGE COUNTRY CLUB/LAKESIDE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

Do you prefer ball golf over disc golf? Fort Dodge Country Club (370 Country Club Dr.) and Lakeside Municipal Golf Course (1417 Nelson Ave) are open to the public and require a pre-booked tee time.

Golf carts Fort DodgeEach 18-hole course provides manicured course play using rentable golf carts for golfers of all skill levels. While we didn’t have time to play a round of golf, I could easily see myself returning to Fort Dodge and carving out time to do so. Having played high school golf, the courses looked well-maintained and worth playing.

RIVER HOPS BREWING

River Hops Brewing (1014 Central Ave.) is the perfect place to cool off after time spent outdoors. Opened in 2018 inside a renovated 1951 department store turned office building, the owners put a lot of work into the space, which produces quality craft beer for eager fans.

River Hops Brewing Beer FlightWe sipped on a flight of four beers ranging from a crisp lager to a red ale as the owner, Ron, told us the brewery can produce 15 beers using 5 fermenters. They are the only brewing in town that serves beer on nitrogen.

brewery barThe size of the brewery is intentionally smaller than most, creating a setting where the community can sit down over a beer and get to know one another. The back patio features a meat smoker and grill available to patrons who want to cook dinner for themselves or friends while they sip on sids.

River Hops Brewing Fort DodgeCheck out the brewery’s menu to preview the beers on tap. The taproom is open Wednesday-Friday at 4:30 pm and Saturday at 1:00 pm. Expect live music on the patio often.

PRO TIP: We thoroughly enjoyed sitting in the taproom and asking Ron about various items of curiosity used to decorate the interior. Ask about the model plane hanging from the ceiling near a wooden canoe or the wood beams and windows – each curated item has a story.

GAGA & HOO KOREAN RESTAURANT

Gaga & Hoo (368 Country Club Dr.) is the only Korean restaurant in Iowa, and it’s the only one they need because the food is authentic and delicious. The restaurant’s owner was recruited to open a restaurant in the area when South Korean company CJ Cheiljedang brought nearly 200 jobs to Fort Dodge.

Korean artifactsThe restaurant’s setting is unique, located inside the Fort Dodge Country Club. Open to the public, its interior displays Korean decor while traditional music plays.

Korean sodaWe enjoyed savory Dak-gang-jeong (fried chicken) and Mandu (dumplings) as appetizers.

We were pleasantly surprised a robot server delivered our dinner entrees– an unforgettable, out-of-the-ordinary experience. The steaming hot Bimbimbap and Spicy Stir-Fried Noodles were some of the best we’ve enjoyed, and our server was welcoming and knowledgeable.

Korean Noodles

PRO TIP: Expect more surprises if you’re one of the last diners of the evening. The chef/owner is known to sit near a musical instrument station where he serenades diners.

THE DARIETTE

If you’re craving dessert after dinner, I recommend driving to The Dariette (17 S. 12st St.) to order a soft-serve treat or ice cream bar via the pick-up window or the drive-thru.

The DarietteA delightful evening in Fort Dodge isn’t complete without visiting The Dariette for a sweet treat. I opted for a small bowl of nostalgic root beer-flavored soft-serve. Nearby families sat on cozy outdoor furniture, enjoying their dessert while I waited a short time for mine.

DAY 2

BLOOMERS ON CENTRAL COFFEE SHOPPE

Unlike a typical coffee shop, Bloomers on Central (900 Central Ave.) is a one-of-a-kind cafe.

We waited patiently in line with locals to order breakfast sandwiches prepared to order and a cold latté. While looking for two open seats, and spotted the casual spot near a refurbished TV made into an aquarium.

Bloomers on CentralJust like everything else in Fort Dodge, this TV-turned-fishbowl was yet another unique surprise to what could have been a typical stop for coffee experience.

Bagel SandwichWe were pleased with the friendly customer service (the owner does it all!) and impressed by the breakfast menu featuring Eggels (bagel sandwiches) and an Acai Energy Bowl for health-conscious eaters.

PRO TIP: Buy a to-go lunch sandwich or salad for the road. Each one is served with sliced apples and caramel, with the option to add chips or seasonal soup.

PUBLIC ART TOUR
FREEDOM ROCK

The Freedom Rock® Tour is available to view across Iowa. Started in 1999, each artist-painted 60-pound boulder is meant to honor veterans for their service to the county.

Freedom Rocks Fort Dodge IowaThe Webster County Freedom Rock in Fort Dodge (Southwest Corner of A Street and the Karl King Bridge at 2nd Avenue S.). As the story goes, Iowa native Ray Michael Sorenson, now a state representative, began drawing as a kid and painted the first large rock because he was inspired by the movie “Saving Private Ryan.”

Freedom Rocks Fort Dodge IowaThe Freedom Rock pictured above is dedicated to veterans suffering from the after-effects of service, like PTSD and mental illness. The front side of the mural rock honors two local aviators and medal recipients who both graduated from Fort Dodge High School

MURAL TOUR

A public art tour of Fort Dodge wouldn’t be complete without getting out of the car to see the 110-foot Grain Silo Mural (727 Hawkeye Avenue) painted by Australian artist Guido van Helten.

Guido van Helten Silo MuralThe state’s largest mural, it depicts Fort Dodge residents who contributed to the community. Do you see the man holding the ornate bowl? The town’s pottery industry is represented by this scene.

Like me, take time to walk the entire circumference of the silo, pausing to admire the artist’s handiwork completed during the winter years ago.

Grain Silo Mural Fort Dodge IowaWhile admiring another downtown mural, I accidentally discovered The Starry Night (Central Ave. and South 9th St.) painted by Iowa Central Community College students.

The bus stop mural is made to look like the famous Vincent Van Gogh painting but also includes symbols of Fort Dodge’s skyline. The 2015 creation is a must-see.

Starry Night Bust StopNo matter where you are in town, you’re bound to see a mural in the distance, whether it’s under a bridge like the one pictured below or in town visible to passersby.

Bridge Art Fort Dodge

STATUES & SCULPTURES

You’ll see many statues and sculptures on display for your viewing enjoyment. A full-scale statue of Iowa Senator John F. Duncombe by artist Leonard Crunelle stands at Karl King Park (424 Central Ave.). He holds law books to represent his time in Fort Dodge as an attorney from 1855-1902.

SculptureChronicle (9th St. and 1st Avenue S.) is a 15-foot sculpture by artist Dan Perry to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Fort Dodge. Not to be missed, the eye-catching art is approachable on foot if you use free on-street parking.

ChronicleClick this link to view all of the public art pieces on display in Fort Dodge in one place.

SHINYTOP BREWING

Lunch at ShinyTop Brewing (520 Central Ave.) is a solid choice. They specialize in craft beer and delicious homemade pizza, but they also have a surprise menu item you only sometimes see at a brewery: mojitos.

We chose to drink No Stopping’ the Hoppin’ IPA and Hop Peach of Ash IPA with the Italian Stallion specialty pizza. Not all breweries that serve food do both well, but ShinyTop hits the mark.

The pizza was the perfect ratio of crust, sauce, and fresh ingredients, so it’s listed on the menu as “a crowd favorite.”

Italian Stallion PizzaIf pizza isn’t your go-to at lunchtime, the brewery also serves specialty and build-you-own sandwiches with chips. Seven macaroni and cheese bowls appear on the menu.

Expect a relaxed lunchtime setting to enjoy a meal from a comfy booth beneath a wall covered in paintings by local artists.

Italian Stallion PizzaIf you go, flights of four 5-ounce beer samples are $12. Not a beer drinker? Opt to view the cocktails, wine, and Moscow mules menu instead.

Moscow MulePRO TIP: Dining with four people? Ask about the Big A$$ Mule, a 192-ounce Moscow Mule served in a monstrous mug.

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
STUDIO FUSION

Studio Fusion (21 S. 12th St.) is the place for the creative at heart to hone their glassmaking skills or learn a new craft. The DIY art studio specializes in fused glass, paint-your-own pottery, and canvas painting. The retail area showcases items for sale designed by local residents.

Studio Fusion Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time in our itinerary to sit down and create a piece, but I did chat with the owner and several women who were busy creating new glass projects.

Glass-making ProjectsThey told me how they meet there once a week to chat about their lives and bond while creating art. Soon, they grabbed their phones to show me photos of past projects completed for friends and family. What started as something fun to do became a love affair producing fused glass.

Clay PaintingYou don’t need an appointment to work at the studio, but if you’re traveling with several people, you should call to reserve seating.

Studio Fusion does not charge studio or glazing fees. Decide what glass design or pottery piece you’d like to work with and get started with guidance from the owner.

Your finished pottery piece or fused glass can be shipped to you once fired in the kiln.

glass artPRO TIP: If you want to take a structured class to create a holiday project. check the Facebook events page for upcoming sessions.

THE APPLE ATTIC SHOP AT THE ORCHARD

If you visit The Community Orchard, you must walk upstairs to shop at The Apple Attic (2237 160th St.). I was told I would love what I saw, and boy, was my host right.

The shoppable home decor section features rustic-chic items, the kind you might see in a farmhouse design magazine.

Home Decor StoreBeyond the home showroom, women’s apparel racks displayed the latest fashions in the season’s popular colors. Tunics, pants, shorts, and accessories make shopping at The Apple Attic worthwhile.

PRO TIP: You can also shop The Apple Attic online, and they will ship to your home.

THE GREEN DRAGON BOOKSHOP

Fort Dodge residents are lucky to have The Green Dragon Bookshop (9 N. 11 St.), and visitors are guaranteed to love it. I always appreciate an independent bookstore. This one, despite its quaint size, supplies hundreds of new and old titles with a large selection of sci-fi genre books.

The owner creatively used the towering space to incorporate tall bookcases decorated with sun-seeking plants.

Green Dragon BooksLocated on the 2023 Midwest Indie Bookstore Roadmap (my favorite resource to support local businesses), The Green Dragon Bookshop also carries whimsical gifts, stickers, and bookmarks.

PRO TIP: If you have a child or young adult reader in your household, they will appreciate The Green Dragon Bookshops’ up-to-date inventory.

DOWNTOWN HISTORIC DISTRICT WALKING TOUR

The entire downtown district of Fort Dodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its establishment in 1854.

Download a brochure before starting your trek to take a self-guided historic walking tour. I was enamored by the architecture along Central Avenue, starting at the City Square, where farmers once sold grain and hay at the market in 1880.

Carnegie Library Fort Dodge Iowa
Fort Dodge’s iconic Carnegie Library (605 1st Ave. N.) was built in 1903 out of necessity when the town’s original library was too small.

Walking Tour

HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS

One of the best ways to get to know a place is to see it via the trail system. Fort Dodge and greater Webster County have paved, unpaved, and soft trails for adventurers, with 16 trails in town.

Download a map to select a nearby trail that meets your needs.  Kiosk panels at trailheads near parking lots remind hikers and bikers of best practices.

Hiking Trail Head Fort Dodge Iowa

BLANDEN MEMORIAL ART MUSEUM

A tour of Blanden Memorial Art Museum (920 3rd Avenue South) may leave you speechless. Three galleries house an impressive collection of American and European paintings, photography, Japanese prints, and African sculptures.

Andy Warhol Print
“Soup Can Bag” by Andy Warhol adorns the wall leading upstairs. Very few of the screen-printed bags are left in existence.

Like most unique discoveries in Fort Dodge, its phenomenal collection of artists’ works left me speechless. I was amazed to view works by Chagall, Warhol, Miro, Chihuly, and Stieglitz on display inside one of the oldest art museums in Iowa.

Outdoors, the lawn was adorned with sizable sculptures by artists who pushed the bounds of creativity.

Blanden Art Museum YardWith an ever-changing display of works from their 1,200 permanent collection, you will see something new each time you visit. The museum hosts a visiting artist every three months.

Bladen Art Museum Fort Dodge Iowa
“Iconic America: Our Symbols and Stories” is celebrated in a rotating gallery featuring the history of America like these Iowa quilts.

End your self-guided tour of Blanden Art Museum by signing the guest book and shopping the main floor gift store. A percentage of each sale funds programming and supports local artists.

PRO TIP: Carve out at least an hour of your day if you’re the type of museum-goer who likes to read each work’s details or ask questions of the staff. Inquire about the museum’s newly announced education center they plan to build soon.

OLDE BOSTON’S RESTAURANT & PUB

Dinner at Olde Boston’s Restaurant & Pub (809 Central Ave.) is an ideal way to wind down a day while enjoying a stacked made-to-order burger or sandwich.

Olde Boston's Piano
You’ll discover 19 painted pianos by local artists in Fort Dodge businesses, like this one located at restaurant’s entrance.

Our Triple B and Bacon Cheeseburger meals were an incredible value the day of your visit at $8 with a side. To my delight, I opted for a side garden salad instead of fries, which arrived the size of a dinner salad. Des Moines Brewing Confluence IPA paired perfectly with it.

Side SaladBurgersPRO TIP: Admire the black and white photography on the walls highlighting the day Senator John F. Kennedy visited Fort Dodge before speaking at an airport rally in 1960. You’ll appreciate learning the story Olde Dog and a Massachusetts town that inspired the restaurant’s name here.

SNACK SHACK

A summer day in Iowa is only complete with an ice cream stand visit. At Snack Shack (11 S. 16th St.), you can select from soft-serve in a cup or cone, malts and shakes, or sundaes and slashes.

Snack Shack Fort DodgeDecidedly stuffed from my dinner meal, I choose a small dish of classic vanilla soft serve with rainbow sprinkles. Couples approached the walk-up window, ready to order, as I watched car after car enter the drive-thru.

Ice Cream CupA popular stop for locals near downtown, Snack Shack reminds me of a hangout you’d see in a 1950s movie. The community loves to gather at the colorful tables outside to gab about local happenings between bites of ice cream.

DAY 3

ARDYS MAE COFFEE AND DESSERT

The first thing to do after checking out of your hotel for the weekend is to stop at Ardys Mae Coffee and Dessert (14 S. 14th St.) for an in-house roasted cup of coffee, fruit smoothie, and light breakfast.

Andy Mae Coffee & Dessert

We reminisced about our favorite moments in Fort Dodge while enjoying a breakfast panini sandwich made with smoked pork loin, egg, and cheese. The fruit smoothie was one of the best I’ve tasted because it was made with fresh strawberries, not syrupy flavoring.

Homemade SconesKnown for their scratch-made scones, Andy Mae Coffee and Desserts has a loyal following that often tracks down their food truck when it shows up at community events.

PRO TIP: The café also serves lunch sandwiches with a cup or soup or stand. Ask about charcuterie boards. Preview the menu.

THE FORT MUSEUM AND FRONTIER VILLAGE

A trip to Fort Dodge is complete with a visit to its most famous museum. Founded in 1854, Fort Dodge has a historical military past. The Fort Museum and Frontier Village (1 Museum Rd.) make history come alive, showcasing artifacts, military memorabilia, and Native American art and tools.

You should start at the Trading Post Gift Shop to pay admission before starting your self-guided tour of the grounds.

Fort Museum and Frontier Village Entrance
The military fort’s storekeeper, Major William Williams, purchased the land and buildings for the town in 1854. The town was officially founded in 1869.

The Fort Dodge Dragoons, the 1st U.S. Dragoons, marched to scout Iowa in 1835 after the Black Hawk Purchases of 1832 put the area under U.S. control. The march established outposts from present-day Fort Dodge. The Dragoon Trail is about 200 miles long, originating near the museum.

Fort Museum
Life as a private only paid seven dollars a month, and some soldiers deserted their posts due to the lure of the Gold Rush.

Fort Museum & Frontier Village welcomes visitors to tour original and replica mid-1800s to mid-1900s buildings and houses. As we walked in and out of the buildings, I was awe-struck by the robust collection of authentic artifacts inside each one.

SchoolhouseI encourage you to walk inside the original Harcourt City Jail, where town drunks, thieves, and outlaws were once taken. Tour the Border Plains School, one of the oldest school buildings in Webster County, to imagine life as a student from 1857-1959.

Original Home Fort DodgeTour the inside of the Carlson-Richey Log Home from 1855 to smell the musty wood planks and admire the handiwork of the log home’s builder.

Frontier Village Fort Dodge We appreciated the historic details inside a blacksmith shop, drugstore, carriage repair shop, and wood shop. I recommend spending about an hour exploring all the buildings on a cool weather day.

But what awaits inside one particular building beyond the military post entrance keeps visitors talking.

The Cardiff Giant Fort Dodge
The original giant is in the Farmers Museum in Coopersville, New York.

The Cardiff Giant is a replica 12-foot-long stone figure resting inside a small building. It was allegedly created when a New Yorker, George Hull, wanted to prove to a preacher that giants once walked the earth. He had the giant’s stone quarried at the Cardiff mine near Fort Dodge.

The naked giant rests with a precisely placed fig leaf in a building and continues to draw onlookers as Hull would have wanted.

Gypsum Fort Dodge IowaOther nearby buildings house actual artifacts curated from the area that documents one of Iowa’s most valuable resources, gypsum. Early settlers mined the mineral in and around Fort Dodge. Now, the chalky material is used to make wallboard, and Fort Dodge contributes nearly 75% of the state’s gypsum production.

Mammoth TuskOther displays house Native American arrowheads, beadwork, and clothing. Nearby, military uniforms and weaponry tell the story of those who fortified Fort Dodge.

A self-guided tour of Fort Museum and Frontier Village helps you better understand who made the town what it is today.

BONUS THINGS TO DO

If you’re visiting during the summer like we did, shop at the Fort Dodge Farmer’s Market (11 N. 25th At.), open on Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. -6:30 p.m. Hanging out downtown? Mosey over to the Fort Dodge Public Library (424 Central Ave.), where a row of rentable scooters wait to be used to tour the town’s downtown corridor.

scooters
To rent a scooter at no cost, use Bird’s QR case with the app via your mobile phone.

Prefer to spend time exploring the outdoors rather than in town? Drive to Kennedy Park and Badger Lake (1415 Nelson Ave.) to walk trails or fish. A paved path leads to Terry Moehnke Veterans Memorial Park. Dolliver Memorial State Park (2757 Dolliver Park Ave.), a 30-minute drive south of town, is known for its breathtaking natural bluffs and view overlooking the Des Moines River Valley.

Corn FieldsWhen visiting Blanden Art Museum, you will be in the Oak Hill Historic District, a four-block neighborhood of post-Civil War period homes. Although most are private residences, tour the area to see Vincent House, built in 1872 by James and Adeline Swain, a women’s rights advocate. The house is rentable for gatherings.

Historic Home My sense of wanderlust is strong, and I typically have a fun travel experience wherever I travel. Yet something about Fort Dodge, my first Iowa travel experience, stays with me. It’s a feeling of contentment and longing to return.

You’ll feel the same after visiting Fort Dodge, which offers incredible things to do and see around every corner. It truly is a place to #DodgeTheOrdinary.

Filed Under: Iowa, Travel Tagged With: agriculture, art, Blanden Art Museum, breweries, brewery, Central Iowa, coffee shop, corn, disc golf, farm to table, Fort Dodge, Fort Dodge Museum, Freedom Rocks, glass studio, gypsum, Hawkeye, historic homes, ice cream, Iowa, Korean food, murals, orchard, public art, silo, trails, vineyard, walking tour, Webster County, winery

Extraordinary Places Worth Exploring in Emporia, Kansas

May 16, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Visit Emporia sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Emporia, Kansas, is nestled in the beautiful Flint Hills off Interstate 35 between Topeka and Wichita. The town is known for Emporia State University, but on a recent visit, I discovered extraordinary places worth exploring. From outdoor recreation to dining and shopping, your choices are nearly endless.

Granada Theatre

LODGING

GUFLER MANSION BED & BREAKFAST

Tucked away in a neighborhood within walking distance from campus sits Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast (612 W. 12th Ave.). The turn of the century 10,000 square foot home includes 12 bedrooms and is large enough to host events. It’s quite a sight.

Gulfer MansionYou can’t miss it as you drive down the street. The tall white columns, brick architecture, and sheer size capture the attention of passersby. I was the first guest to check in on the day of my overnight stay, so I was able to peek inside each of the themed bedrooms and tour the home’s main level.

stained glassMy accommodations in the German Room included private access to a newly remodeled bathroom with modern amenities. The queen bed was comfortable, and the room’s antique vanity and large closet provided ample space to store personal items.

Gulfer Mansion German RoomIn the morning, I enjoyed a complimentary breakfast of frittata, potatoes, berries, and hot coffee in the company of other early-morning risers in the formal dining room.

If you appreciate making acquaintances when you travel, the bed and breakfast experience is ideal for you. People chat casually about their travel plans and often share ideas for places to visit in town.

Gulfer Mansion Second FloorTo reserve a room at Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast for a single night or overnight stay, visit the website for details.

PRO TIP: Bring your disc to practice your golf shots. The mansion’s vast corner lot includes a disc golf basket on the property.

DINING

Gravel City Roasters

The highly-rated coffee house, Gravel City Roasters (715 Commercial St). serves a long list of coffee and tea drinks. Never without a short line from the register, customers can also select breakfast muffins, cupcakes, and other pastries. All of the baked goodies are made from scratch.

Coffee DrinkPopular with residents, including college students, it also serves as a retail space selling whimsical gifts. Shoppers in search of puzzles and uniquely crafted artwork are in luck.

Trox GalleryPRO TIP: Before walking into the cafe space, stop at the Trox Gallery featuring rotating art exhibitions.

Do-B’s

More than one person told me that I would love to grab a bite to eat at Do-B’s (704 E. 12th Ave.), a fast-casual restaurant known for The Reaper Burger Challenge (more on that later!). One look at the menu, and my mouth began to water.

Do-B's, Emporia Stacked burgers, Philly sandwiches, po’boys, and hot wings dominate the menu. The owner took several minutes to introduce me to the menu options, and ultimately I chose the Burnt End Philly made with chopped barbecue meat, onions, pepper jack cheese, and smothered in Curley’s BBQ Sauce. I upgraded my side to sweet potato waffle fries, a wise choice. It might have been the messiest sandwich I’ve ever eaten, but it was also one of the most delicious.

Burnt Ends Philly and FriesThe restaurant was packed with diners, and seating at times was limited. Thankfully, they also offer outdoor patio seating, and you can order via drive-up or by phone for carry-out. An employee behind the counter busily blended shakes while others flipped burgers on a flat-top grill. The local hangout sign in the background read, “Come In. We Are Awesome.”

Do-B's EmporiaAs I munched on my sandwich, I watched the movie “Popeye” on the dining room’s flatscreen TV. A wall of bottled sauces and locally made beef jerky sat for sale nearby. Just as I was about to finish my meal, the owner stopped by to visit.

I learned from him that The Reaper Burger Challenge attracts brave customers willing to endure the super spicy sandwich to make a name for themselves and win a free t-shirt. He confessed it was such a daunting task to finish the budget that not even he could finish the burger.

PRO TIP: Ask for a side of Sweet Potato French Fries Sauce, a thick sauce that is easily addictive. Enjoy Cajun food? Do-B’s hosts Jambalaya Thursdays.

Union Street Social

Union Street Social (225 E 6th Ave) is the restaurant you always wished for, and now it’s here. The restaurant serves chef-prepared cuisine and specialty cocktails that rival any big city.

Union Street SocialThe hipster ambiance meets mid-century modern, with areas of the restaurant devoted to lounging or sipping on a cocktail while listening to live instrumental music. A gas fireplace is a focal point flanked by jewel-tone velvet couches giving off a speakeasy vibe.

Negronis (pick your adventure) are their specialty. I chose Underwood Rose Bubbles served in beautiful glassware. After dinner, coffee drinks and non-alcoholic drinks are available.

Salmon SaladShared plates, appetizers, and the soup of the day rotate. I chose the Smoked Salmon Salad with perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs, and warm bacon dressing served over micro greens and spinach. Ordering dessert wasn’t up for debate. The owner baked cheesecake while I was there, so I ordered a peanut butter & chocolate cheesecake slice to go. HEAVEN. You can expect big-city style, eclectic design, and attentive service.

PRO TIP: It’s a popular place! The owner advises that you make a reservation no matter the size of your dining party to guarantee seating.

Dining Room

Radius Brewing Company

Local. Unfiltered. This is how Radius Brewing Company (610 Merchant St.) describes itself, and it fits, considering the uber-friendly vibe and delicious menu.

The full-service restaurant is open seven days a week, serving artisan-style menu items ranging from wood-fired pizza to sandwiches. How good is the beer? It’s award-winning.

Radius Brewing Company You can expect to find at least a half dozen craft beers on tap at any time. After ordering a flight (6, 5oz pours $12), I can attest to the quality of the selection. When it comes to craft beer, I typically like IPAs, but I fell hard for Chile Margarita Gose and Mojito Hard Seltzer. Each was uniquely flavored and refreshing.

Chicken SandwichAfter working up an appetite, I order the Chicken Bacon Avocado sandwich with a side of broccoli salad. Seated at the bar, 90s rock music played while I chatted off and on with the friendly bartenders. The food was freshly prepared by Chef Bays, and it showed in its flavor and presentation. Before leaving, I ordered a Meat Eater 12″ pizza and a homemade dill ranch for the road. It sounded too delicious to resist, and it met my expectations.

PRO TIP: View Radius’ menu online before planning your visit. They often host food events like Taco Tuesday and Burger Thursdays. If you bring a growler, they’re happy to fill it for you.

ATTRACTIONS

Red Rocks, Home of the William Allen White Family

A graduate of the William Allen White School of Journalism at the University of Kansas, I could wait to tour the home of the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. Red Rocks (927 Exchange St.), with an outdoor pond and patio, is one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas People and a state historic site.

William Allen White House Red RocksWhite and his family hosted friends and dignitaries (5 presidents visited) in the red Colorado sandstone home. The newsman declined Frank Lloyd Wright’s design drawings for the house, but upon touring, you’ll recognize some of his design style in its interior.

William Allen White House Living Room Six bedrooms and three full baths are furnished with many of the family’s prized possessions. Look for White’s infamous top hat next to the bed and the jaguar rug gifted to him by President Theodore Roosevelt. My favorite artifact is White’s original typewriter in the upstairs study.Generations of the White family carried on the father’s legacy of running the Emporia Gazette. Today’s reporters work remotely versus at the original newspaper office.

William Allen White's Typewriter and DeskPRO TIP: Admission to the home is reasonably priced at $6 for adults and $3 for children. Start your tour experience inside the Visitor’s Center. Watch the introductory film about White’s life and career and peruse the artifacts.

Twin Rivers Winery and Gourmet Shoppe

UPDATE: The tasting room has closed since this publication. Twin Rivers Winery and Gourmet Shoppe‘s (627 Commercial Ave.) tasting room is massive. Located in the heart of downtown, they serve hand-crafted wines, ciders, and seltzers. What is the best way to experience the winery’s selections? Order a flight ($6).

wineryThe bartender Becky is also the mayor of Emporia. She told me that after the grapes arrive from an off-site orchard. Employees painstakingly process the grapes into wine, fill, cork, and label each bottle by hand.

Wine FlightAlthough I enjoyed a few of the wines more than others, they were all approachable. It turns out that the sweet blush I enjoyed the most, Yoga Pants, is one of the most requested. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the options to order a flight, wine slushy, or a bottle. Expect to find more white wines than red wines on the menu.

Twin River WineryWhile they don’t serve food, you’re welcome to bring in your charcuterie or purchase gourmet snacks from the taproom’s retail inventory.

PRO TIP: Traveling with a dog? Twin Rivers is pup-friendly. The staff will provide fresh water and treats for your family friend.

David Taylor Zoo of Emporia

A mountain lion. Exotic birds. Lemurs. Prairie dogs. You’ll find them all and more animals to observe at the David Taylor Zoo of Emporia (75 Soden Rd.). Open to the public at no charge (cash donations accepted!); the zoo is a newly constructed space housing various species from reptiles to mammals.

zoo lionI appreciated the prairie dogs’ exhibit the most because they were interactive with one another. Two males played joyfully while the others zoomed to and from their underground holes in between lunchtime bites.

The mountain lion and owls avoided the hot, mid-day sun. Ducks, swans, and tortoises easily swam in the zoo’s pond. The newest addition to the zoo, a Laughing Kookaburra, observed me but didn’t find my noisemaking amusing.

duckOther areas of the zoo facility include a children’s play area and Zoo Education Center. The park is open Sunday-Saturday, 10 am-4:30 pm.

PRO TIP: Check the zoo’s website for upcoming, family-friendly events.

Peter Pan Park

Families searching for a place where kids can run and play will appreciate Peter Pan Park (S. Congress St. & W. Kansas Ave) for its splash pad, playground equipment, and four-acre lake. Sports lovers will appreciate the 18-hole disc golf course, the home of the Dynamic Discs Open.

Peter Pan ParkDuring my park tour, I stumbled upon Monkey Island, which once was surrounded by a moat and housed rhesus monkeys. As you stroll across the park, you’ll find aquatic birds and turtles enjoying the four-acre.

Monkey IslandThe well-established trees provided ample shade in different areas of the park. Picnic tables invite you to bring your lunch and enjoy the beautiful setting.

PlaygroundPRO TIP: Take a selfie with the bronze Peter Pan statue. The land was donated by the town’s most famous resident, William Allen White, and named after his daughter’s nickname.

Jones Park

If there is one thing Emporia is well-known for, it is disc golf. Jones Park (Jones Dr.) is 70 acres consisting of a championship-level disc golf course aka “The Supreme 18”, fishing ponds, and a playground.

Disc Golf BasketSerious disc golfers travel from afar to compete in the PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Champions in late summer/early fall. The park includes two courses providing golfers a chance to showcase their athleticism.

Dynamic Distribution 

The disc golf craze in Emporia is undeniable. The town was named America’s #1 Disc Golf Small Town by UDisc.  I added an extra stop to my itinerary after a world champion, Eric McCabe, suggested via Instagram that I tour Dynamic Distribution (840 Overland Rd. Suite A). The enormous warehouse houses multiple rooms of shelves stacked to the ceiling with discs, bags, and apparel.

The receptionist was happy to give me a casual tour of the warehouse which started in the employee lounge. If ever there was a place you would want to work as a disc golfer, it would be there. The employee kitchen included a kegerator, a smoothie station, and copious snack options. Visiting tournament golfers can watch the competition from a flatscreen TV in the lobby.

Disc GolfPRO TIP: The facility doesn’t include a retail store. However, you can purchase discs at the Dynamic Discs store (912 Commercial St.), and the employees are willing to match you with the disc that suits your needs.

Downtown Shopping & Mural Hunting

The downtown area along Commercial Street is dotted with several stores worth checking out. In search of ingredients for a charcuterie board? Vaults Meats & Cheeses (509 Commercial St.) sells epicurean selections. Local artists’ work is for sale as well.

Vaults Meats & Cheeses Sweet Granada (03 Commercial St.) is a gift shop carrying 200 handmade chocolates and gourmet desserts. Ask for Granada Goo & Avalanche, the store’s best-selling treat. You can select individual macaroons or chocolate truffles to create a to-go box.

Sweet GranadaAs you walk the downtown corridor, keep your eyes peeled for interactive murals created to inspire selfies. My favorite mural of the several I saw was the brightly colored umbrella, which was appropriate since it had rained the night before. I stood in a puddle in an alley to capture the below photo.

Street ArtCycling for long distances on Kansas gravel roads is a popular endurance sport in the Emporia area. Gravel City Adventure & Supply Co. (716 Commercial St.) carries gravel/off-road bikes, supplies, and apparel. If you’re an avid cyclist, the shop is our go-to destination for repairs or outfitting.

Cycling The Emporia Arts Center (815 Commercial St.) is a magnificent facility hosting art for sale by regional painters and sculptors. Don’t miss your chance to view the current installation in the Trusler Gallery as well as the hallways lined with works done by the center’s talented instructors. The center features a black box theatre and studios upstairs for art classes.

Emporia Arts CenterPRO TIP: Walk into the Visit Emporia office (719 Commercial St.) to ask questions or pick up brochures containing downtown shopping information.

Trolley House Distillery

Trolley House Distillery (502 Commercial St.) makes and serves moonshine and craft cocktails. The building was once dilapidated until the owners used their vision and handiwork to restore it to its glory. The historic building houses trolleys that once made their way up and down the main street in Emporia.

Trolley HouseToday, it is a tasting room where guests can sip on moonshine while appreciating the building’s historical photographs framed on the walls. If you need help deciding what to order, ask for a sample sip (free) and then select from the distillery’s cocktail menu. The King ($7) made with peanut butter moonshine, banana liqueur, and chocolate bitters go down smooth.

Moonshine CocktailPRO TIP: Take home a bottle of moonshine available for sale in the merchandise area of the tasting room.

Other places worth noting in Emporia I want to check out on a return visit include the historic Granada Theatre, Mulready’s Pub, and Chi Em Eats. Emporia is much more than another college town in Kansas. It’s a community comprised of a multitude of things to do and welcoming residents.

I do not doubt that you will love it as much as I did. My best advice is to book an overnight or weekend stay and use this blog post as your personal travel guide. Happy travels!

Emporia Kansas

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: art center, bicycle, burger, coffee shop, cycling, disc golf, distillery, Emporia, Emporia State University, flint hills, gallery, golf, gravel city, historic homes, Kansas, mansion, Midwest, Moonshine, murals, park, Peter Pan, Peter Pan Park, playground, street art, Willam Allen White, winery, zoo

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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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