historical museum

The Ultimate Trip to Pittsburg, Kansas

April 25, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Kansas Tourism sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Pittsburg, Kansas, draws me back for its ever-changing scene of entertaining things to do and see. Known for its rich history as a mining town from 1890, it draws people to the state’s southeast corner to appreciate delectable dining, tour the downtown attractions, and root on the Pitt State Gorillas.

In Pittsburg, there is always something to love.

Selfie photo at PSU — The green grass and lush landscape at Pittsburg State University are the ideal backdrop for visitors taking photos, especially during spring.

Accommodations

Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas Crossing

Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburg (1285 U.S. 69 Hwy) is my hotel when visiting Pittsburg. During my return visit, I found the accommodations met my standard for comfort and cleanliness. Attached to Kansas Crossing Casino, it’s a bustling hotel with ample opportunities for on-site entertainment.

Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel has everything you need under one roof, from comfortable accommodations to entertainment and dining.

The King Room, with a sofa bed and mini refrigerator, includes a roomy bathroom with glass door shower. I appreciated the quiet room, given the hotel was at capacity during my weekend stay.

Free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms provide guests with the comforts of home they crave when on an overnight trip.

The King room with sofa bed at Hampton Inn offers plenty of room if traveling solo or as a couple.

PRO TIP: Don’t expect to be able to check in early to your room, but instead, ask if the hotel will hold your bags until 4 pm check-in.

Take a Tour

Miners Memorial at Immigrant Park

At Miners Memorial at Immigrant Park (106 W. 2nd St.), you can expect to learn about the work of coal miners who labored in the Weir-Pittsburg Coal Field, the home to more than 100 coal camps. A life-size bronze statue of a miner is the focal point, flanked by nine black granite monuments inscribed with the miners’ names.

According to Miners Memorial, over 10,000 miners worked in the area, like Wendell Dean Golf, who worked on a crew to bring coal from mine to mine via Frisco Railroad so it could be washed. Retiring in 1993, he spent 21 years on the job, a long-standing tradition in his family.

Miners worked in dangerous conditions for up to 12 hours daily, often digging coal by hand. When they were not working in the mines, they opened small businesses and farmed in the area to generate income.

Immigrant Park — Dedicated to the people who relocated to southeast Kansas, Pritchett Pavilion (106 2nd St.) includes markers highlighting immigrants’ stories.

PRO TIP: Locate the mural Solidarity inside Pittsburg Public Library painted by Kansas artist Wayne Wildcat. It depicts Amazon Army’s march protesting working conditions in the mines.

Crawford County Historical Museum

Located on the edge of town, Crawford County Historical Museum (651 S. Highway 69) provides visitors with a deep dive into the coal mining capital of the world, where over 50 nationalities settled.

Although the museum was closed during my visit, I could tour its exterior, including H.R Brown’s Grocery. Its first location opened in 1907, and its second location eventually closed in 1968. Locals relied on its fresh produce, meat, and dairy products inventory.

Crawford County Museum outdoor buildings — Crawford County, established in 1867, was named after 1864-1868 Kansas Governor Samual Crawford.

The șite of educational sessions (cooking class, anyone?), Crawford County Historical Museum hosts Living History School Day, Cow Creek Cowboy Days & Wild West Show, and holiday-themed events.

Marion Steamshovel — On display at the museum’s entrance, a #37 Marion Steam Shovel displays Wilkinson Coal Company. The company was founded in 1923 but closed in 1979 when it was no longer profitable.

PRO TIP: Call 620-231-1440 to confirm if the museum is open for free, self-guided tours before your arrival.

Murals Hunting

Downtown Pittsburg is an art lover’s dream. Whether you call it street art or a mural, the town has many of them. Pittsburg Artwork commissions creators to paint colorful scenes on the side of buildings – even benches!

Mural in Pittsburg, Kansas — Unlike this street-side mural, there are several murals that you can walk on at area elementary schools.

The mural movement in Kansas is strong, and Pittsburg is leading the charge. If you consider yourself a mural hunter, you may want to start in the downtown area and then hop in your car to drive around the county to view more creations using the PocketSights app.

painted bench in Pittsburg, Kansas — A fiberglass park bench designed by a local artist is one of several that were auctioned during a SEK Art Fest fundraiser. This one is located in the downtown area.

PRO TIP: In April, the town hosts Pittsburg Artwork closing down a corridor to feature street artists, musicians, food vendors, and more. Use the Pittsburg Artwalk map to plan your journey between 4th and 7th streets.

Explore the Outdoors

Trail Head Park / Watco Trail

The beauty of Pittsburg is viewable from its biking and walking trails. At Trail Head Park / Watco Trail (11th and Broadway Streets), the 2-mile paved path is an out-and-back route. Benches at Trail Head Park under the pergola offer a bit of shade.

Trail Head Park in Pittsburg, Kansas — A pergola with benches is located at Trail Head Park, a gathering place for those beginning the 1.5-mile walk or bike trail.

PRO TIP: Park is free and public bathrooms are available at the trailhead.

Lakeside Park

A discovery during my second visit to Pittsburg, Lakeside Park (402 W. Washington St.), was highly recommended by a local who knew I wanted to explore scenic areas of town. What a find!

I exited the car to hear children’s giggles from a nearby playground. It was a beautiful Kansas day. I walked the paved path around most of the lake, stopping only to take photos of people fishing at the dock and observing ducks swimming leisurely.

Lakeside Park in Pittsburg, Kansas — Lakeside Park includes a paved trail around the lake, including story walk signage.

PRO TIP: Pittsburg has 15 parks, many open 7 am-11 pm. Locate one near you using the city’s map.

Shop Til You Drop

Miners + Monroe

You won’t find a more unique men’s specialty store in Kansas than Miners + Monroe (214 S. Broadway). It is more than an Uber-cool clothing store. Shoppers will also appreciate its high-quality grooming supplies, candles, shoes, and shelves of on-trend ballcaps. I couldn’t leave without a beer logo t-shirt and stylish socks.

The shop becomes a performance venue when they host musicians on the back patio, Miner’s Alley. They’ve also expanded to support music performances at the Colonial Fox Theater. Check their event listings here.

Men's Clothing Store — The men’s clothing store was founded in 2018. It stocks men’s wardrobe essentials, personal hygiene products, and more.

PRO TIP: Walk to the back of the building to see the shop’s new mural painted by artist Jessica Stout. Featuring a brightly colored buffalo, it pays tribute to four tribes, most especially the Peoria Tribe.

ArtForms Gallery

Where can you shop for one-of-a-kind art and crafts? ArtForms Gallery (620 N. Broadway) is a cooperative gallery filled with working artists’ creations ranging from paintings to pottery and stained glass to handcrafted jewelry.

The store’s employees are incredibly helpful, so ask them to assist you if you’re shopping for someone with unique taste.

PRO TIP: Register for one of their single-session workshops to flex your artistic skills here.

Books & Burrow

Books & Burrow (212 S. Broadway) sets itself apart from other independent bookstores because the owners hand-select titles in small quantities focusing on all readers’ ages.

You’ll notice that they don’t carry just best-selling titles but also curate new books that might not find elsewhere. For example, they stock a sizable selection of books by Indigenous authors, and the children’s book inventory is sizable.

Books and Burrow — The family-operated bookstore sells hand-selected titles in limited quantities. The store was inspired by their daughter’s love of reading and book collecting.

PRO TIP: Bring a reusable bag to fill with fun finds. You’ll find it hard not to leave without a new book, a Kansas-made candle, or a notepad.

White Elephant Emporium

A few minutes inside White Elephant Emporium (804 N. Broadway), you may think you’ve entered an art collector’s chic living room or global traveler’s home. Carrying unique home furnishings and decor, the shop is only open the first weekend of every month or when the owner decides to host a pop-up opening.

Shoppers move energetically through professionally designed displays featuring potted plants nestling near leather couches adorned with animal print textiles. Dark wood cabinets and end tables are the base for towering candle holders and ornate lamps.

White Elephant Emporium in Pittsburg, Kansas — The outdoor patio is an area not to be missed.

PRO TIP: Follow the shop’s Facebook page to preview merchandise, as the store always adds new items.

Bring Your Appetite

Root Coffeehouse & Creperie

What do you get when you combine comfy lounge spaces and delicious coffee drinks? Root Coffeehouse & Creperie has mastered serving perfected drinks and breakfast items to its adoring fans. The locally-owned gathering spot attracts college students with laptops, ladies’ groups ready to gab, and parents with kids.

I devoured my latté and crêpe from a blue velvet chair at a table near a brick wall. Because it was a busy time to visit, I admired the framed photography on the wall and the succulent plants nearby, both for sale. A Little Free Library tempted me since a new read creates a delightful café experience.

Root Coffeehouse — Berry Happy is one of six sweet crêpes, a cream-filled delight served with fresh strawberries, blueberries, white chocolate drizzle, and powdered sugar.

PRO TIP: Not interested in caffeinated drinks? View a separate menu featuring over a dozen hot and cold drinks sans the buzz.

Drop the H Brewing Company

It never fails. My inner GPS leads me to a brewery or a pizza shop when on the road. Luckily, I knew where to find excellent beer and a slice, Drop the H Brewing Company (107 E. Rose St.). Serving happy customers like me since 2019, the brewpub prides itself on its multiple beer taps and New York-style pizza selection prepared in a brick oven.

A fan of their beer, I ordered a flight to taste a range of flavors from lager to stout. However, my favorite was the Balkan Haze, which I also ordered as a crowler to go. You’ll find their beers approachable and easy on the palette – even the Dry Irish Stout, a maltier brew nitrogenated for smoothness.

Drop the H Brewing Company beer flight — The brewery also caters to non-beer drinkers by providing over a dozen cocktails and wine selections.

PRO TIP: Partake in half-priced drinks every Friday and Saturday from 10 pm to 11 pm. If it’s the last Friday of the month, wear your Drop the H t-shirt to earn $5 off your tab.

Brick + Mortar Social House

Do you know the feeling you get when you discover a restaurant that checks all the boxes, and you want to tell everyone about it? Brick + Mortar Social House (401 N. Broadway) is that restaurant for me. The gastropub’s aesthetic is somewhat upscale but not so pretentious you can’t walk in wearing casual attire. I arrived during the tail end of Happy Hour and was excited to enjoy a meal.

Brussel Sprouts — Crispy Brussels Sprouts served with caramelized bacon bits and balsamic reduction are among eight elevated appetizer menu options.

Serving an elevated menu of classic entrees, I labored over what to select since everything sounded tasty. Did I want an artisan salad, the Prime Rib Sandwich, or Pan Roasted Chicken? I settled on Crispy Brussels Sprouts for an appetizer and the best gosh darn Chicken and Waffles I’ve ever tasted. The chef, originally from Coffeyville, did an exceptional job.

Chicken and Waffles — Check the menu for The Social Classics, which includes Chicken & Waffles topped with white gravy and parsley and served with warm syrup.

PRO TIP: The dining room is not decorated in the typical sports bar style, but with 10 TVs, it’s a prime place to watch the game.

The Blue Spoon

At The Blue Spoon (618 N. Broadway), a catering business has evolved into a brick-and-mortar storefront selling thoughtfully-prepared grab-and-go meals and desserts. Charcuterie trays, salads, and dinner entrees stock the reach-in refrigerators.

While my mouth began to water over a glass case of hand-rolled truffles and cookies, customers continued to file into the store to purchase in-store pick-up orders. The place was hopping with locals in search of Easter-themed goodies. Scratch-made classics like chocolate clusters, sugar cookies, and cakes were popular.

PRO TIP: To find out grab-and-go meals available in the refrigerated case, view The Blue Spoon’s Facebook feed.

The Corner Patio

Every town needs a place where locals can soak up the sun’s rays with a drink. Pittsburg’s newest addition to the downtown scene, The Corner Patio (919 N. Broadway), is the place. And if what a group of locals said at a neighboring table, it’s “going to be a popular place.”

Whether you’re in the mood for a cold beer, hot coffee, or fruit smoothie, the cozy watering hold delivers. Come hungry and enjoy affordable meals like a Walking Taco, Philly Cheesesteak, or a Turkey Wrap. I found a shaded spot under a patio table’s umbrella, where I kick back and relax.

PRO TIP: The owners plan to add live music events to their lineup. View their Facebook Events page to see who’s playing.

Other Places or Events Worth Checking Out

The Pittsburg Area Farmers’ Market supplies locally-grown produce and farm-processed foods on Saturdays and Wednesdays. In the mood for a live show? Memorial Auditorium hosts a range of artists, from comedians to nationally-known music acts.

Pergolas provide shade between buildings in downtown Pittsburg.

The college town hosts numerous festivals and fairs. Attendees of Pittsburg ArtWalk during the spring and fall can expect live music and art demonstrations, plus food vendors. Little Balkans Days, a 3-day festival on Labor Day weekend, promises games, entertainment, arts and crafts, and a parade celebrating the town’s ethnic heritage.

Also, the fried chicken epicenter of Kansas is well-revered for its hearty meals, a tradition that began when two women opened restaurants on the same street catering to hungry miners. Pick between Chicken Mary’s, Pichler’s Chicken Annie’s, or Chicken Annie’s Original.

Downtown Pittsburg — Sugar Rush Sweet Treats (709 N. Broadway St.) serves classic ice cream and retro candy.

New or Coming Soon

You can expect more murals to appear downtown as the City of Pittsburg uses grant funding for new projects.

Rumor has it that The Corner Patio’s owners are renovating a space above the business into an Airbnb.

Electric car travelers will appreciate the fast charging stations installed in the north parking lot of the Colonial Fox Theatre.

…But there’s more!

To learn more about Pittsburg, view Kansas Tourism’s community page. Check out my earlier blog post, Plan a Bucket List Trip to Pittsburg, for additional entertainment suggestions. Cruising by other southeast Kansas towns? View my itineraries for Humboldt and Fort Scott.

Junction City: Incredible Places to Visit

November 4, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

Junction City in Geary County deserves a closer look. Exit from KS I-70 to discover its proud military heritage, outdoor recreation, and visit-worthy attractions. A 25-minute drive from Manhattan and only an hour from Topeka, it is nestled in the beautiful Flint Hills of North Central Kansas.

Get a closer look at this mural when standing across from Heritage Park in historic downtown Junction City.

With more than enough to do in town, I’d recommend spending at least one night in Junction City. Hotels are located within a close driving distance of historic downtown and most attractions. Before seeking adventure around town, I checked in to my accommodations.

LODGING

Courtyard by Marriott (310 Hammons Drive) offers amenities that provide a feeling of comfort when traveling. My guest room was up-to-date. It featured a king bed, workstation, and had enough room to spread out and make myself at home. The hotel was a pleasant space to return to when I wasn’t exploring the town. For travelers in search of indoor exercise options, the hotel features a pool and fitness center. Loungers will appreciate the outdoor patio featuring a fire pit. If you’re in search of a quick bite to eat, The Bistro has food to go plus Starbucks drinks.The hotel had the amenities I needed as a writer like high-speed WiFi and a spacious lobby with a business center to get work done. Its modern amenities, friendly staff, and quiet quarters made my stay worthwhile. When in Junction City, I know you’ll be pleased with your accommodations at Courtyard by Marriott.

ATTRACTIONS

The residents of Junction City, Kansas are proud of their history and heritage, and they should be. It’s the home of Fort Riley, an Army installation. Named after Major General Bennett C. Riley who led soldiers along the Santa Fe Trail, it was built in 1853 to protect the movement of people and trade over the Oregon-California and Santa Fe trails.

It’s a place where soldiers get combat-ready and train to be ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. Many of the town’s residents are soldiers and it’s common to see men and women in uniform enjoying civilian life out and about in town. So, it makes perfect sense that the town recognizes past and present soldiers at many of its attractions.

HERITAGE PARK

Smack dab in the middle of historic downtown is Heritage Park, a place that honors the soldiers and sailors who gave their lives for our country. It’s a place to learn about their sacrifice, read each one’s name, and reflect.

During your visit, read the poem by Michael O’Donnell who was killed in action in Vietnam at the State of Kansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Take time to view the Junction City/Geary Count Law Enforcement Memorial. The public space is also home to numerous monuments, a bicentennial time capsule, a bandstand, and a water fountain.

BUFFALO SOLDIER MEMORIAL

It’s worth the short drive to view the town’s Buffalo Soldier Memorial (1832 N Adams St.), which is a tribute to the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry Regiments who served courageously in multiple wars. According to history.com, “the infantry regiments were created to help control the Native Americans of the Plains, capture cattle rustlers and thieves and protect stagecoaches, wagon trains, and railroad crews.” The memorial is free to visit. To learn more about Buffalo Soldiers, visit here.

GEARY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Built as City Highway School in 1927, the Geary County Historical Museum (530 N Adams St.) is an incredible space filled with timelines, artifacts, and hands-on activities for history seekers. Three floors of exhibits tell the story of the people and places that make Geary County amazing. Admission to the museum is free; however, donations are accepted.

Open as a museum since 1983, the building itself is a historical artifact of Geary County. Look closely at its architectural details during a self-guided tour.

Today, visitors can experience what Main Street would have looked and sounded like inside the first-floor exhibit. As you make your way through the tack room, parlor, and kitchen areas, you naturally imagine what life might have been like during the early days of Junction City.

Another exhibit explains how Junction City got its name for the intersection of the Republican and Smoky Hill rivers. Settlers were drawn to the area for the promise of good land and river water. The town was founded in 1858 and it grew quickly over the next decade.

However, overflowing rivers and sudden rainstorms have caused havoc on the town on more than one occasion. Junction City’s residents are resilient having survived and rebounded from multiple floods. In fact, the Milford Depot was swept off its foundation after the 1936 flood.

The upper floors of the museum transport visitors to an authentic Union Pacific train depot, schoolhouse, and a large room once used as the school’s gym includes bonus artifacts that you don’t want to miss. From the history of Fort Riley to early communication tools, the museum includes well-designed, thought-provoking exhibits.

During my visit, a volunteer gave me a guided tour of the exhibits. I appreciated his extensive knowledge of the town’s history and his witty sense of humor as we meandered our way through the museum’s collections. By the end of the tour, I was better for having met him. It was a delightful experience. The museum also welcomes groups and is happy to organize tours.

C.L. HOOVER OPERA HOUSE

After it caught fire in 1898, sadly only the front exterior wall remained. After multiple remodels and renovations, it was transformed into the Opera House in 1942.

Today, visitors can enjoy plays, movie screenings, and musical performances in a state-of-the-art theatre. Concert-goers sit in comfortable, new seats listening to excellent acoustics. Stay tuned! The premier fine arts center will undergo an expansion of its square footage next door in the coming year.

The Opera House is also known for hosting children’s programs as well as art and music classes for all ages. The Junction City Little Theater performs four productions every year. The community band performs on Memorial Day and showcases free shows every Sunday in June.

It’s a stunning building to see in person. I was impressed by its design and the interior details from the custom-made chandeliers to the hand-painted murals. The upstairs lobby also serves as an art gallery featuring regional artists’ work. To see it yourself and view an upcoming event, which often includes comedians, concerts, and plays, visit this link.

MILFORD NATURE CENTER AND FISH HATCHERY

Located a 10-minute drive outside of town and near the Milford Dam and Reservoir, the Milford Nature Center and Fish Hatchery (3415 Hatchery Dr.). It is not to be missed for its live animals, dioramas, and outdoor exhibits. The best part? It’s free and open to the public 9 am-4:30 pm Monday-Friday, 1-5 pm on the weekend.

Free to explore inside and out, the nature center includes displays visitors of all ages can enjoy. I particularly loved the live animal exhibits where I observed reptiles, fish, prairie dogs, a bobcat, and birds of prey.

Do you recognize Kansas’ state reptile, the box turtle?

Nearly all of the animals that live at the nature center are brought to the facility with health concerns, including eagles and falcons that live in outdoor enclosures. In fact, they receive 400-600 animals each year for rehabilitation.

You’ll appreciate the QR-coded informational displays that provide in-depth details about each animal. Kids will love the tactile station to learn more about animal fur and skeletons.

The Butterfly House, open June-October, is entertaining to walk through. A nearby fish hatchery was closed for treatment during my visit, but it is usually open to the public 9 am-4:30 pm Monday-Friday and 1-5 pm Saturday.

Adjacent to Nature Center, families will be amazed by the playground area and bird watching station. I recommend making time to walk the Tallgrass Trail to get a glimpse of the pond and learn about native plants and trees.

Check the center’s Facebook page for events prior to planning a visit. Third Thursdays give animal lovers a chance to go behind the scenes and get in-depth lessons on animal behavior.

MILFORD LAKE & DAM

The Republican River is the primary water source for Milford Lake (22 W 6th St.), which is considered the largest lake in the state and the “Fishing Capital of Kansas.” A recreational hub for everything from fishing to boating and hunting and camping, the lake is a scenic place to relax and unwind.

It’s a beautiful, scenic place to escape the hustle of everyday life. With over 19,000 acres of land, it’s common to spot wildlife making it a landscape photographer’s dream location. Additionally, the area offers entertainment options for the family. Milford State Park (Northwest of Junction City, west of K-77 on K-57) hosts fishing tournaments, Family Movie Night, S’mores Family Fun Run, and more.

RATHERT STADIUM

One of my favorite attractions in any Kansas town is historical architecture and Junction City has plenty of it. Rathert Stadium (900 W. 13th St.) was built in 1937 and still hosts baseball games today. Sports fans sit in wooden seats to watch the Junction City Brigade, Blue Jays, and American Legion Flames compete on the field.

DINING

STACY’S RESTAURANT

I like to dine where the locals start their day. Stacy’s Restaurant (118 W Flint Hills Blvd.) is a quaint diner where Fort Riley soldiers, families, and travelers passing through come to enjoy a hearty breakfast and lunch.

Just as I expected, the menu listed pancakes, egg scrambles, french toast, and sandwiches. I ordered a homemade cinnamon roll that came to the table with ooey-gooey vanilla frosting dripping from all sides. When in Junction City, pull over to dine at Stacy’s. The prices are reasonable and the portions are huge.

HOT ROD’Z

Ron, the “Pit Master,” at Hot Rod’z (1118 N. Washington St.) knows how to smoke meat. The Hot Rod signature sandwich comes with pulled pork, a hotlink, sauce, and cheese piled high on a bun. Oh, but that’s not it! The plate comes with two succulent ribs, creamy coleslaw, chips, and pickles.

Did I eat it all? I wanted to, but that’s a lot of grub. It was so good, I asked for a to-go box. To my surprise, every meal comes with a “hillbilly fortune cookie” aka oatmeal cream pie. It was over the top DELICIOUS!

Located just behind the historic downtown area, Hot Rod’z is a real deal bbq joint. Ron is always ready to chat about his recipes (he told me the coleslaw recipe!), and talk about his collection of antiques. Stay a while, enjoy the bbq, and get to know him. Good people, better bbq.

BELLA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

When you’re craving savory pasta dishes, the place to dine is Bella’s Italian Restaurant (605 N Washington St.) in historic downtown. The friendly staff greets you warmly and ushers you to a table surrounded by the colors of Tuscany. The two-sided menu includes entrees like Veal Cacciatore, Shrimp Alfredo, and Chicken Parmigiana.

I asked the server what the most popular pasta dish on the menu was and he encouraged me to order the Cheese Ravioli. Topped with tangy marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, it was baked to perfection. I was happy with my selection that paired nicely with the house red wine. The creamy Italian dressing was the ideal choice for the house salad. View the menu in advance of your visit here.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Junction City. As someone who appreciates Kansas history and exploring the outdoors, I was glad I took Exit 295 from Kansas I-70 and checked it out. I’m just sad I didn’t have more time to discover more of the area’s attractions like Milford Wetlands, Geary Lake Falls, The Starcke House, or Spring Valley Historical Site.

The next time I visit the town, I hope to stay at Acorns Resort, an area near the lake that includes cabins and a swimming pool.

Have you traveled to the Hometown of Fort Riley? Sought adventure in Geary County? Tell me about your experiences in the comments below.

Visiting WaKeeney, Kansas: The Christmas City of the High Plains

August 18, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

Driving into WaKeeney, I wondered why a small rural town of its size would call itself “The Christmas City of the High Plains.” Within minutes I was parked directly in front of an archway that read “North Pole.” Wooden cutouts of holiday trees and figurines sat in a courtyard surrounded by murals painted with Christmas scenes. It may have been a sweltering 99-degree summer day in Kansas, but it certainly conjured up thoughts of winter. I thought, “Why does this town love Christmas so much?”

Since 1950, the town has lived up to its nickname when local businessmen displayed a 35′ Christmas tree covered in 3,000 lights in the center of town. The tree and display are lit the Saturday after Thanksgiving and stay illuminated until New Year’s Day. Long strands of twinkling lights and fresh greenery stretch from the tree to neighboring businesses lighting up the downtown. The four-block district is illuminated in colorful lights. The Christmas tree and lighting displays are considered to be one of the largest of their kind along KS I-70 during the holiday season. Some of the decorations stay up the entire year along Main Street and inside its businesses. How many trees will you spot around town?

BREAKFAST

HOMETOWN BAKERY

WaKeeney is much more than a tourist stop along Kansas I-70 between Kansas City and Denver. The county seat of Trego County is home to hardworking residents who roll out the red carpet for visitors. WaKeeney offers travelers a place to enjoy a simpler way of life. It wasn’t long before I found myself quickly making friends with the locals at Hometown Bakery (215 N. Main St.), a busy place during breakfast.

I was craving a hearty and comforting meal. I ordered the Breakfast Plate of eggs, potatoes, and toast along with a freshly brewed coffee. I could hear the cook, who I assumed was the owner, whistling while she prepared meals in the kitchen. Townies talked about the hot weather and the quickly approaching end of summer. Hometown Bakery was the place to catch up on the town’s happenings over coffee.

LODGING

I checked myself in an Air B&B, 1909 Cottage House (510 Warren Ave.) located just off the town’s square and across from the courthouse. Having never stayed in an Air B&B, I loved it. I highly recommend booking an overnight or weekend stay at the cottage. It’s meticulously restored, spacious, thoughtfully decorated, and clean. It has all of the comforts of home. Five beds and three bathrooms provide roomy accommodations for a family visiting the area.

One delightful part of a stay at the cottage is enjoying the flower gardens that surround the property. A white picket fence corrals leaning plants and flowers – the ideal setting for enjoying the view from the front porch. It’s also relaxing place to sit and watch residents come and go about their business along Main Street until the sun goes down.

EXPLORING

TREGO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

The best way to get to know a place that you’ve dropped into for the first time is to visit the town’s museum. The Trego County Historical Society’s Museum (128 N. 13th St.) indoor collections tell the story of the residents of the area who have made an impact on the town’s success. As you walk amongst the exhibitions, you’ll see vintage clothing, household goods, medical artifacts, and items from farming on the prairie dating back to the late 1800s. I suggest starting your self-guided tour by learning more about the town and its founders. WaKeeney was named after Albert Warren and James Keeney who dreamed of a city with 80′ wide brick streets. They got their wish.

The museum’s textiles date from the early 1800s-1970s. Many of the museum’s items were donated by families in the area. Can you imagine walking the streets of WaKeeney and seeing women wearing dresses like the ones below as they headed off to church or a formal occasion?

A new addition to the Trego County Historical Museum includes a large mural depicting the life of an earlier time. Governor John P. St. John signed a proclamation to organize the county on June 21, 1879. What do you notice about the mural below that tells the story of the county?

One exhibit that the museum is continuously working hard to build is the Trego County Honor Roll that features names of residents who have served in the military. I felt a sense of patriotism as I read about the soldiers who wore the uniforms on display. The collection dates back to World War I. The artifacts in the case situated left of the honor roll wall are phenomenal.

Several tiny towns in Trego County eventually combined into one school district. The one-room schoolhouse pictured below is available for visitors to enjoy with access provided by museum employees. It was used from 1910 to the early 1960s.

Today, schools use the facility on occasion to teach historical lessons to students and for the occasional elementary school program. From floor to ceiling, the one-room schoolhouse helps visitors take a virtual walk back into time. As someone who tends to notice the details of artifacts, I couldn’t help but think about the students who must have sat at the desks. Based on my count, about about 20 students could have occupied the classroom at a time. Look at the desk in the photo below. Do you see the initials WL?

TOUR OF TREES

An interesting attraction worth noting in WaKeeney is the Tour of Trees. To further celebrate “The Christmas City of the High Plains,” WaKeeney expanded their love of the holiday by adding 22 metal Christmas trees in front of historic homes and businesses. Each tree encourages visitors to learn facts about the town or “Tree-via.” Will you find the house that belonged to the doctor who cared for Wild Bill Hickok? How about the remains of the house built by the town’s founder?

Stop by The Studio 128 (128 N. Main) to ask for an address directory to help you locate all of the trees on the tour. Like me, you may simply stumble upon them as you walk around the main square of WaKeeney. I spotted the tree below in front of my lodging accommodations at 1909 Cottage House. The trivia about the house helped me imagine the sister and brother who once occupied it. Immediately, I felt at home when thinking about the happy couples who were married in the house by Justice of the Peace, Walter Siggett. A house is always more than just a place to live. It tells a story.

TREGO COUNTY COURTHOUSE

When given the opportunity, I like to tour a town’s courthouse. The halls usually have framed photos of influential townspeople. The Trego County Courthouse (216 N. Main St.) sits in the middle of the town’s square.

Construction of the courthouse pictured below took a year to complete. The structure is made of beautiful limestone from Trego County as well as Manhattan stone. According to travelks.com, the interior design remains nearly unchanged and it remains one of the oldest Kansas courthouses in operation today. The county jail was in the basement of the courthouse until it was condemned in 1976. Now, the space is used as storage. At the time of its construction, it cost over $26,000 to build it.

The county’s growth increased once the Kansas Pacific Railroad brought jobs. Homesteaders and pioneers soon followed. I looked into the eyes of early residents in photographs on the courthouse walls and wondered what goals they saw realized for the county.

STUDIO 128

Another fun place to check out when in downtown WaKeeney is Studio 128 (128 N. Main St.). It is part art gallery and part studio space for people to use to foster their creativity. Lynelle, the owner, invites individuals and groups of all ages to experiment with paint and clay. The retail space is the perfect opportunity for shoppers to buy unique gifts and Christmas ornaments. Studio 128 hosts events ranging from holiday-themed classes to public paint nights. To plan your visit during one of the events, view the studio’s Facebook page.

GIBSON’S HEALTH MART PHARMACY OLD FASHIONED SODA FOUNTAIN

I ventured across the street from Studio 128 into Gibson Health Mart Pharmacy (125 N. Main St.). The secret ingredient to WaKeeney’s charm? The people…and a delicious drink at the pharmacy’s old-fashioned soda fountain in business since 1892.

My Vanilla Cream Coke was delicious but not overly sweet. Other specialty drinks, shakes, and malts are served to customers who sit at nine barstools inside the historic building. I enjoyed learning more about the town’s residents and history while sipping on my drink. Another traveler stopped in having taken a detour from KS I-70 for the old-fashion soda fountain experience. It’s a must-visit place in Kansas and a popular place for locals and travelers to the Christmas City on the High Plains.

What drink would you order while seated at the counter? I’m told that the town’s youngest residents love the Green River, a super sweet drink. One of about forty authentic soda fountains still in operation in the state, Gibson’s includes seating for nine patrons. Thirsty? Flag down any employee who is ready to happily whip up a nostalgic drink for you. Prefer a cup of coffee? It’s only 5 cents! The pharmacy is also a great place to stock up on everyday necessities, gift items, and floral arrangements. Plan your visit around the pharmacy’s hours listed here.

SHILOH VINEYARD & WINERY

With time to spare before the dinner hour, I drove west from WaKeeney on KS I-70 to Exit 120 to M Road to get to Shiloh Vineyard & Winery (17079 M Rd.). I was told it was a popular stop for visitors to the area in search of a relaxing place to sip wine and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. A family-owned winery founded in 2008 by the Johnstons, it features a tasting room, event space, and serves as an official Harvest Host for overnight RV guests.

I was given a private tour by Kirk and Treva who told me about the property that welcomes people from all over the nation to the destination winery. The family renovated an old chicken coop into the pristine wine tasting room you see in the below photo. Salvaged materials from buildings on the property were sourced to finish the space. I would highly recommend asking for a guided tour to fully appreciate the winery. Visitors can schedule an informative tour by appointment.

Visit the tasting room to enjoy the winery’s long list of varieties, order a wine flight or ask about the Wine of the Week. A fan of dry wine, Kirk poured several varieties for me to try but it was a dry red, Noiret, that was by far my favorite selection. I’d also recommend sampling Norton and Vidal Blanc. Bottles of wine and gourmet chocolate are available for sale.

Kirk enthusiastically talked me through the notes of each wine and the story of its production. The winery is known for producing cold-hardy grapes to make dry reds, dry whites, semi-sweet whites and reds, fruit wines, and dessert varieties. All of the wine is made from the fruit the family grows on site.

A popular venue for hosting weddings, receptions, and private parties, the barn below is available for rental. A nearby patio attached to the tasting room provides outdoor seating. The winery and event spaces stay consistently busy, but they always welcome wine lovers who show up to the tasting room.

WAKEENNEY WATER PARK

The WaKeeney Water Park (716 N. 6th St.) is the ideal place to cool off from the rays of the summer sun. If your kids are begging for something fun to do, take them to the swimming pool for a day of fun. This aquatic center isn’t any ordinary city pool either. The park features two slides, lap lanes, dive boards, dump bucket, and deck sprays. Looking to lounge? The zero-depth, beach-like entry space is ideal for relaxing. Check the pool’s page for operating hours.

The WaKeeney Water Park sits adjacent to a manicured city park – one of four in town. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a covered picnic inside a pavilion or play a game of disc golf, WaKeeney’s city parks have something for everyone to enjoy at their pace. I enjoyed relaxing at the Swimming Pool Park under a canopy of shade trees. Which one will you enjoy? View all the park locations here.

EISENHOWER PARK + DOG PARK

Another park that often attracts visitors is Eisenhower Park (I-70 Exit 127). It has two distinct attractions. One is a restored Navy F-14 Tomcat Fighter Jet, which sits on display. The 62′ jet was transported to town by truck from Ohio, reassembled by volunteers, and put on exhibit as a tribute to veterans of all ages and branches of the military.

The other attraction that draws people to the area is Eisenhower Park’s newest feature, a dog park. It’s an ideal place for you and your four-legged friend to enjoy the outdoors whether you’re staying overnight in WaKeeney or taking a break from an KS I-70 road trip.

KANSAS VETERAN’S CEMETERY

Just off of Highway 40 in WaKeeney sits the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery (403 South 13th St.). It’s open to visitors year round from sunrise to sunset. During my visit, I read many of the headstones and observed that each one described the person buried there in a few poignant words or gave a message of remembrance. As the Kansas Commission of Veterans Affairs Office says, “No One is Ever Buried Alone, All are Buried with Honor.” You can tour the cemetery at your pace or request a staff-led tour.

DINNER

WESTERN KANSAS SALOON & GRILL

After a busy day of exploring, I was ready to dine at Western Kansas Saloon & Grill (121 N. Main St.) for a tasty meal. Like many of the businesses in town, the restaurant is located in a historic building. A hardware store occupied the space in 1925. Now, townies gather in groups to enjoy steaks, hamburgers, pasta, and appetizers from a long menu of local favorites.

While I dined on a delicious Patty Melt, I noticed the walls and upper shelves were covered in antique lamps, signs, and farming tools. The original wood floors creaked as people walked by and the tin ceiling revealed the building’s age. Oversized paintings by a local artist hung on the walls – each one told the story of Kansas life.

My time in WaKeeney seemed to fly by preventing me from visiting several more places that I look forward to experiencing on my next visit to town. I would love to tour Castle Rock located 15 miles south and four miles east of Quinter. The area is touted for it geological treasures and is considered one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas for its 70′ rock formations and seabed fossils.

Have you spent time in WaKeeney or plan to visit? It truly is a quintessential American town. I will always have fond memories of my stay in WaKeeney.

While the town may attract curious tourists who want to visit the “North Pole,” the charming town has so much more to offer than that. WaKeeney’s people, comfortable lodging, and the must-experience attractions make it a worthwhile stop along KS I-70.