Disclosure: Visit Coffey County Kansas sponsored my trip. All opinions and the majority of the photographs are my own. Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com.
Founded in 1855, Coffey County, Kansas, offers today’s visitors a plethora to eat, see, and do. Burlington, the largest community with a vibrant downtown, is a solid starting point for a day trip or an overnight stay.
A major draw for visitors is the county’s two lakes, John Redmond Reservoir and Coffey County Lake, as well as outdoor recreational parks. Day trippers seeking shopping and dining will be happy to discover locally owned businesses that roll out the red carpet for visitors.
Locals welcomed me warmly during my time exploring Coffey County, whether it was a fisherman about to drop a line at the Burlington Dam or the coffee shop owner who told me his business story while I sipped a matcha latté.
Coffey County is rich in must-see scenic views, unique businesses, and a vacation rental so enchanting you’ll want to stay there with friends or family.
Kansas Getaway: Top Things To Do During an Overnight Stay in Coffey County
STAY AT A CHARMING VACATION RENTAL
Eagles Nest
Eagles Nest (located upstairs from EB Sports Outdoors (317 Neosho St.) is a delightful vacation rental to reserve, especially if you’re traveling with your family or hosting a girls’ getaway.
Accessible via 26 stairs to the second floor, Eagles Nest is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom loft space. Guests park on Neosho Street overnight.
Inside, you’ll discover a spacious, renovated home in a historic building, complete with painted tin ceilings and dark hardwood floors.
Ornate crown molding complements the homey aesthetic designed with antique furniture and quilts.
The kitchen’s cabinets are stocked with basic cooking tools, and guests have access to a full-size oven, refrigerator, and coffee maker (bring coffee and creamer).
Leather couches in the living room are ideal for chatting with friends or curling up with a book. After a day of exploring, I used the large dining room table as my laptop station for the strongest Wi-Fi connection.
Later, I chose a quiet, king-size bedroom at the rear of the home, with an oversized bathroom featuring a walk-in shower.
If you’re part of a quilter’s group (a nearby fabric store) or a small family who appreciates the historic charm of staying in a thoughtfully restored building, I recommend staying overnight at Eagles Nest.
The vacation rental is not listed on Airbnb or VRBO. You will need to contact the owner directly to reserve Eagles Nest.
PRO TIP: I’d recommend connecting to your phone’s hotspot if you want to use the internet from the bedrooms. Perhaps it was me, but I couldn’t find streaming options on three of the home’s televisions, so I opted to watch YouTube via my iPhone instead.
SAVOR DELICIOUS MEALS, COFFEE & ICE CREAM
Bake-Ary Donuts
Open for more than 30 years, Bake-Ary Donuts (401 N. 4th St.) is a staple of the community and a busy drive-thru early-morning stop.
The owner told me he wakes up at 2 a.m. to hand-prepare donuts and sausage rolls, also referred to as Little Smokies, and opens the doors at 5 a.m.
Limited indoor seating is available. A reach-in refrigerator houses bottled drinks, and a self-serve coffee station is stacked with mugs.
I selected two freshly baked donuts, which were soft, sugary sweet, and scrumptious. They didn’t last more than a few minutes before I gobbled them up.
PRO TIP: Bring cash.
11th Lane Roastery
The conversation amongst locals was lively as I entered 11th Lane Roastery (204 S. 4th St.), a popular coffee shop serving specialty espresso drinks made with in-house-roasted coffee.
Having already drank coffee, I opted for a vanilla-flavored iced matcha. It was the best-tasting matcha tea drink I’ve enjoyed.
The staff makes house-made bagels (jalapeño cheddar is popular) and pastries daily. More than 12 flavors of ice cream, made in-house, are sold by the pint. A reach-in refrigerator is stocked with grab-and-go meals ideal for the lunch hour.
You may think 11th Lane Roastery is merely a coffee shop. It also doubles as a retail store selling local makers’ creations, from jewelry to bags of their gourmet, whole bean coffee. And a cooler is filled with individually packaged cuts of meat from Slead Farms in Lebo, Kansas.
Vintage Sisters
If you love coffee drinks, delicious homestyle meals, and shopping for antiques, you’ll feel like Vintage Sisters (114 N. 3rd St.) is heaven-sent.
A multi-page menu featuring cafe breakfast and lunch classics impresses, and the day’s special meal with a trip through the salad bar draws regulars daily.
I chose a cafe table near a display of individually packaged pie slices. The coffee shop’s customers’ mugs sit on a shelf labeled with their names near the register.
The Salty Dog, a hot espresso drink prepared with salted caramel flavoring, hit the spot after my early-morning drive. The Breakfast Bowl, a layered meal of tater tots, scrambled egg, bacon, and cheese, was equally crunchy and crave-worthy.
After your meal, shop in the Vintage Sisters’ multiple rooms, which showcase more than two dozen vendors’ wares, ranging from antiques to handcrafted home decorations.
Wildcat Grill
I’ve eaten a lot of grilled hamburgers on the road, and Wildcat Grill’s is one of the best.
Located in New Strawn, Wildcat Grill (255 N. Main) is the brainchild of a local who spent years in college towns like Lawrence and Manhattan.
The owner knows what people want when dining at a sports bar. The menu, featuring stacked burgers, chicken wings, and big-portion dinner meals, delivers.
Sandwiched between a soft bun, the Wildcat Burger with crispy bacon, spicy mustard, and “all the garden” was thoughtfully prepared. I opted for a garden salad over fries.
Whether you’re stopping by for the bar’s daily meal special, like Wing Wednesday, or a beer while watching the game from a comfy booth, Wildcat Grill will feel like the college sports bar you remember, but nicer.
Avocados Mexican Cuisine
In Burlington at Avocados Mexican Cuisine (318 Neosho St.), you’ll discover saucy enchilada dinners and combination platters that include authentic Mexican fare and Tex-Mex-style recipes.
Festive music plays from overhead speakers in a dining room decorated with colorful picado banners and neon signage.
The owner recommended the Los Comadres platter served with a savory shredded chicken enchilada, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and a crunchy beef taco. Probably more food than I needed, I savored each scrumptious bite, adding homemade salsa to the meal.
Main Street Sweets
Next door, Main Street Sweets (316 Neosho St.) serves rolled ice cream, boba, drink infusions, paninis, and cups of soup.
In the mood for dessert, I watched as an employee combined Oreo® cookies with vanilla ice cream on a frozen surface, then pushed it into cigar-shaped rolls.
Main Street Sweets is a must-stop. I loved my ice cream so much that I didn’t even realize it was gone until the last bite.
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
Drake Park
Drake Park, a five-minute drive from downtown Burlington, is a scenic hangout for anglers fishing for catfish and families seeking a place to picnic under a shade tree.
The Catfish Capital of the World, Burlington, competed with a nearby town, Chetopa, in a years-long feud for the title and trophy.
The sound of falling water at the Burlington City Dam sets the scene. Also a tucked-away spot for RV campers, the park includes eight concrete stalls with water and electric hookups near the Neosho River shoreline.
Two rod-and-reel anglers told me they were fishing for crappie during a sunny afternoon at the dam.
Kelley Park
Burlington’s Kelley Park and Campground (625 S 3rd St.) doubles as a family-friendly playground and a place for self-pay RV campers to pull over, situated along the Neosho River.
I recommend planning your visit to the 46-acre park during a rodeo at Kelley Park Stadium. It’s also the site for the oldest consecutively held annual fair in the state, Coffey County State Fair.
Eagle Nest Tower & Trails
The outdoor exploring continues at Eagle Nest Tower & Trails, located at the Wilson Cadman Environmental Education Area (1355 17th Rd. NE), a short drive from Burlington.
After parking in the car, I followed the dirt road past an abandoned red barn to Eagle Nest Tower. Defying my fear of heights, I ascended its spiral staircase to the top, where I was rewarded with a 360-degree view of the countryside and Coffey County Lake.
If you prefer to hike the trails, start at the silo and trek the well-worn path until it loops back to the silo. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and osprey.
John Redmond Reservoir
John Redmond Reservoir (1565 Embankment Road) offers boating, birdwatching, fishing, and endless sunsets for campers.
The US Army Corps of Engineers reservoir consists of more than 9,000 acres of outdoor recreation.
I visited the reservoir on what must have been the windiest Spring day in Kansas history. Gusting at 30 miles per hour, the winds created white-cresting waves crashing along its rocky shoreline.
Coffey County Lake
Why enjoy one lake when there are two in the area? A go-to fishing destination, Coffey County Lake occupies 5,090 acres, open from sunrise to sunset.
The county reports that largemouth bass and crappie are catchable near standing timber, while walleye, channel catfish, and smallmouth bass are caught in open water.
New Strawn City Park / Disc Golf Course
Another peaceful outdoor escape in the area is New Strawn City Park (110 4th St.) Whether you’re seated on a park bench watching the ducks swim by or practicing watching your kids play on the equipment, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Do you play disc golf? The park is home to a moderately difficult 10-hole disc golf course with concrete tee pads and flat terrain, featuring mostly Par 3 and a couple Par 4 holes.
The course is well-kept by the city. I had the park to myself mid-day, which offered peaceful refuge that only a small town can provide.
SHOP MAIN STREET
Vintage Sisters
Cute collectibles. Antique glassware. Hand-sewn quilts. Vintage Sisters (114 N. 3rd St.) is home to more than 20 vendors, making it easy to find the perfect treasure.
To make sure you don’t miss a gem, start in the front of the shop and meander through the center dining room, ending in the rear of the store.
Find something you can’t live without? Pay for it at the coffee/restaurant counter, where you’ll be tempted to order a latté or purchase a tasty bite to eat.
Strawder’s & Daughters Gifts
Don’t you love a florist that also carries your garden needs and gifts in one place?
Strawder’s & Daughter’s Gifts (201 Neosho St.) is a happy place, and you can tell from the moment you walk in and see cheerful animal figurines situated amongst houseplants and silk flowers.
I spent almost half an hour chatting with employees and taking in all that the store offers, from Village Candles to garden gnomes.
The back corner of the store is devoted to houseplants and gardening supplies, while the outdoor courtyard is often filled with shrubs and trees trucked in from Strawder’s & Daughters Nursery and Tree Farm during warmer months. In October, piles of pumpkins are for sale.
Silver Threads & Golden Needles
Calling all quilters! Silver Threads & Golden Needles (321 Neosho St.) in Burlington is where you want to shop for fabric, quilt project kits, notions, and threads. The completed quilts hanging in the front windows will inspire your next project.
I chatted with an employee who told me about her quilting journey, and she pointed out the variety of fabrics in the store. Open five days a week, the shop regularly runs a sale. On the day of my visit, the west wall of fabric was marked down 15 percent.
Perhaps you need to stock up on solids or simple prints, or a seasonal fabric with matching thread for your next quilt project? Golden Needles and Silver Threads carries it all. Don’t miss the fabric scraps basket.
Hornet Games
Card collectors and fans of Warhammer®, Lego®, and Magic: The Gathering® will love shopping at Hornet Games (306 Neosho St.) in Burlington.
Often the site for gaming groups, the store’s owner, Nathan, does an excellent job of stocking the shelves with a variety of games and puzzles. A massive display case houses booster packs of cards.
He told me that what started as a baseball card collection grew into a one-stop shop for gamers and parents in search of Lego™ Duplo sets for their kids.
Several customers gathered at a back table, and a school group was expected to arrive within minutes of my visit.
PRO TIP: Hornet Games often hosts events, so check its Facebook Events page for demo week information or Board Game Day announcements.
Sweet Grass Home & Design
Sweet Grass Home & Design (407 Neosho) is Burlington’s newest downtown store.
Known for custom engraving, home décor, and handcrafted metal art, the shop also sells grab-and-go meals.
Its grand opening took place after my visit. I’ll definitely want to shop there during a return trip to Burlington.
SHOP GARDEN CENTERS & NURSERIES
Strawder’s & Daughters Nursery & Tree Farm
Tap into your love of gardening or landscaping at Strawder’s & Daughters Nursery & Tree Farm (1272 23rd) in Lebo. After a guided tour by the owner, I learned that the quality and price of the trees are unbeatable, and people will drive up to three hours to shop at the family-owned business.
The sound of a water fountain with koi splashing is the backdrop as you shop for noticeably better-than-a-big-box-store sun and shade-loving shrubs. From fruit-bearing to topiary trees, the nursery stocks a variety of hard-to-find trees, all maintained by a small staff of dedicated workers.
Walk through the rows of trees and don’t miss the greenhouse, which contains seasonal tree seedlings. Steve Strawder, his wife, and staff are kind and helpful, willing to provide expertise in selecting and maintaining trees and shrubs for years to come.
Lulabelle’s Flower Farm
Lullabelle’s Flower Farm (1290 Lynx Ln.) is a must-stop 20-acre you-pick flower farm known for its full-service flower shop and retail store, which carries garden-inspired home products and personal beauty items.
Visitors are welcome during select dates from June through August to pay a freewill donation to pick in-season flowers to fill a cup. Events like the farm’s popular Mother’s Day brunch are announced on social media.
PRO TIP: Check the farm’s hours on Facebook before arriving.
Arnold’s Prairie Greenhouse & More
Gardeners will think it’s worth the short drive to Arnold’s Prairie Greenhouse & More (1430 KS-58) in LeRoy. Open seven days a week, the garden center is a go-to shop for in-season plants, indoor house plants, and gifts.
Thanks to the work of owners Tom and Laura and their staff, you’ll feel the friendly vibe when shopping at Arnold’s. The greenhouse is stocked with vegetables, herbs, and annual and perennial plants, organized on tables for almost as far as the eye can see.
PRO TIP: View the Facebook page for the frequent announcements about new arrivals.
RELAX WITH A GOOD READ
Coffey County Library – Burlington Branch
What’s not to love about a community library? It’s a hub of activity, and the Coffey County Library – Burlington Branch (401 Juniatta) is known for its calendar of events, which visitors are welcome to participate in, like the Chess Club or Adult Craft classes.
The library’s dark wood shelves house books, magazines, and lounge areas that cater to those who just want to sit down and relax with a new read. Public access computers with internet access are available to patrons.
I was pleased to find resources on the area’s history, and the public art outside was delightful.
EXERCISE LIKE A PRO
Burlington Recreation Center
If you’re a road tripper looking for a place to exercise indoors, you’ll be impressed with the Burlington Recreation Center (1110 Shea St.). It exceeds your expectations for a small town fitness facility.
Pay a Daily Use Fee ($3 per person), and you gain access to workout spaces that rival any YMCA.
Consisting of two equipped workout rooms, an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, a dance/yoga studio, a walking track, and a table games area. One can also reserve use of the indoor Golfzon TwoVision simulator for $25 per hour or $15 per half hour.
The weight-lifting/cardio rooms are no joke. Filled with top-notch equipment and free weights, the facility will please visitors looking to put in a full-body workout. Enjoy the free Wi-Fi and water bottle station during a fitness session.
Athletic courts are popular amongst pickleball players in the morning.
The outdoor swimming pool (13th and Neosho St.) with diving boards and water slides for family-friendly fun is open starting Memorial Day weekend. Kids also have access to outdoor playground equipment.
PRO TIP: Refer to the Facebook page to learn about upcoming events and new classes for all ages. The center doubles as a community event space.
DISCOVER STREET ART
Mural Tour
Most of the murals in Coffey County were painted by Jim Stukey, a self-taught artist who uses his talents to beautify public spaces.
From the Greetings to Burlington mural at Drake Park to the history of a town as depicted on buildings in Le Roy, his work connects visitors with the county’s history. I appreciated how many of the ghost signs on Burlington buildings were restored to their original vivid color.
PRO TIP: Pick up a mural map at the Burlington caboose kiosk before embarking on a self-guided trek to find each one.
ATTEND AN ANNUAL EVENT
There is never a dull moment in Coffey County, and I encourage you to plan a getaway around one of its annual events or a grand-opening business celebration.
In Burlington, the Rooted in Rural Spring Festival at Kelley Park in April combines agriculture and rural heritage into a free-to-attend event for families.
Early June marks Strawnfest, where families gather for a fishing derby, games, and a disc golf tournament in New Strawn.
Barbecue fans will want to attend Smoke on the River BBQ Competition taking place over Labor Day weekend in September.
Locals love Boo Fest in October, the Christmas Craft Fair & Gift Annex in November, and Burlington’s lighted parade in December.
I hope you add a Coffey County road trip to your travel plans this year. In-town shopping and dining, combined with outdoor recreation, is certain to impress you. This itinerary merely scratches the surface of the places you can visit in the county.
Sure, you could day trip, but I would stay overnight because you’ll have plenty to explore, starting in Burlington and stretching throughout the county to its lakes, garden centers, small-town parks, and unique Main Street shops.
Do you want to extend your route through the region? You will appreciate my road trip itineraries for nearby Emporia and Topeka.
Go for the small-town charm. Stay overnight to be spoiled at the Historic Elgin Hotel. And if you prefer to sleep under the stars, the town includes two lakes with primitive and RV campsites.
Like me, I’m sure your mouth will drop in awe of the stunning interior architecture, with dark wood accents and twinkling crystal chandeliers. Jazz music plays as the sun’s rays shine through original windows.
The first floor includes a reservable meeting space, often used for formal gatherings.
The second level, accessible via a grand staircase or an elevator, features additional lounge areas, including an outdoor veranda. A comfy velvet couch and oversized chairs invite conversation with friends.
Reserve 
An in-room mini refrigerator, streaming television, and Bluetooth docking station feel like home.
A walk-in shower with five sprayers and a deep clawfoot bathtub exceeded our expectations, leaving us feeling completely spoiled.
Optional add-ons like our cheese and chocolate tray with snack basket and iced-down cider made our in-room stay extra delightful. We toasted to making new travel memories before savoring truffles from Sweet Granada, a Kansas chocolatier.
When not enjoying our room, we hung out with friends in the hotel’s Game Lounge prior to arriving for our dinner reservation at the on-site restaurant, 
The 1886 Old Fashioned, prepared with Boot Hill Distillery bourbon whiskey, was delicious, but surprisingly, it arrived several minutes after the appetizers.
PRO TIP: 
Situated inside a tiny building on the edge of downtown, the casual eatery is family-owned and operated, serving regular customers who often wait for the door to unlock.
The restaurant’s humorous signage and Americana decor added a Grandma’s house quality. The day’s special, a Bacon Swiss Burger with fries, and my order, a Philly sandwich, were so tasty we ate every bite.
My only regret is that I didn’t plan ahead for a slice of pie when ordering lunch.
We decided to split a Three-Meat Dinner for lunch, which is more than enough food when served with two side dishes.
We sampled four sauces, ranging from a white Alabama-style to a spicy traditional sauce. Overall, they were all tasty, and we each claimed a favorite, adding it to our plates.
The home/coffee shop is decorated with thoughtfully curated antiques. Separate rooms offer quiet spaces for reading or working from a laptop.
The Sit Down serves hot and cold espresso drinks, house-made soup, sandwiches, and grab-and-go pastries. Everyone will leave happy.
The director gave us a quick overview of the museum’s exhibits before we embarked on a self-guided, free tour.
Its main space is divided into exhibits focused on local history, ranging from early settlers to contributions by prominent citizens.
We particularly enjoyed the room dedicated to Marion schools over the years, featuring yearbooks, band uniforms, and nostalgic photographs.
On the day of our visit, a back room housed a quilt show featuring the handiwork of area residents.
I spotted the exterior’s hand-carved stone with mascarons, or people’s faces. Who were they?
Other areas included intricate carvings of foliage, and interestingly enough, a fruit pie is hidden amongst the exterior’s beautiful design.
The courthouse’s administrator volunteered to give us a tour of the unoccupied courtroom.
The spacious park includes covered picnic tables, modern playground equipment, shade trees, and a tennis court. Horseshoe pits are available, but you’ll need to bring your own horseshoes.
NOTE: The natural spring was dry during our mid-March visit, but we still explored the rocky terrain, discovering some of the largest toads I’ve ever seen and a den of garden snakes. Careful where you step.
Campers can choose from 171 primitive and RV hook-up sites. We played disc golf before pulling over at a campsite to use the playground equipment, so I could play like a kid again.
PRO TIP: If you want to navigate to the reservoir dam, map your route 
The 40-foot-deep water is ideal for fishing bass, catfish, sunfish, and bluegill. If it’s winter, locals know to use the marina’s heated fishing dock.
Bring discs to ring hains on the 18-hole disc golf course with concrete pads located at the hilly southeast corner of the lake. Several baskets are located close to the water, making play more challenging.
Whether camping overnight or visiting for the day, the sandy swim beach looks to be a popular hangout not far from where kayakers enjoy the water.
Golfers can expect to pay their dues using the honors system drop box at the clubhouse building before teeing off or reserve their 
Green sod, native trees, and hilly terrain make for a memorable game. Need a break during play? The clubhouse’s shaded front porch is the ideal spot to relax and rehydrate.
Operated by a doctor and her staff, the practice offers services including automated massage, IV therapy, skincare, dermal fillers, and more
I opted for a 20-minute session in the state-of-the-art 
Much of the retail caters to women who appreciate vibrant colors in home and garden decor.
A multi-sided display of $5 costume jewelry, adjacent to shelves stocked with kids’ plush toys and home decor, makes Aunt Bee’s Floral & Gifts a one-stop shop for gift givers who want to pair an item with a plant or floral arrangement.
We were visited by the store’s cat, a welcome delight while shopping.
The Colletts, who are longtime residents, are used to the bakery’s frequent traffic. Rachel told me that she sells thousands of bierocks per year. Baked goods are sold as singles, half-dozen, or by the dozen.
Whether you visit CB Baked Goods for grab-and-go bierocks, bolsos, breakfast pizza, or dessert treats, you’ll leave happy like their regular customers.
The store’s eclectic mix of antiques and collectibles is a picker’s dream. I noticed that each booth was labeled by seller, and while some included thematic, grouped items, other displays felt randomly displayed.
Visit TC’s What Not Shop if you love to search for low-cost items from your home or personal jewelry collection. A lake house sign. Faux pearl necklace. Seasonal decorations. They sell it all.
Love your trip to Marion so much that you want a keepsake? Jetset Clothing Co. is the store to purchase Marion Warrior merchandise.
The front of the store is dedicated to selling vendors’ creations, while the rear of the shop is a working studio space where you can work on craft projects.
The make-and-take craft studio is primarily focused on wood and ceramic projects. All ages are encouraged to participate, and because most projects are crafting kits, it’s suitable for all skill levels.
Short on time, I wasn’t able to sit down and craft a DIY project, but by the looks of the happy families crafting in the studio, it was entertaining.
Be prepared to shimmy down the aisles amongst other shoppers while hunting for a good deal. Sale proceeds benefit St. Luke Hospital for equipment and remodeling expenses.
Need a holiday-themed or housewarming gift with a greeting card for someone? Want to create a gift basket with seasonal items? Lanning Pharmacy is your go-to shop.
The salon was abuzz with chatter when I stepped inside to browse the boutique’s clothing racks, stocked with Kansas-made alpaca sweaters.
Expect free-flowing, comfortable blouses, jeans, and a small assortment of gift-ready plush toys and handmade blankets.
Open on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, cars arrive early parking wherever they can find a spot at the former alfalfa mill.
A walk of the property reveals rows of items grouped by category: old bikes, bed frames, sinks, metal tubs, farm implements, ladders, and the list goes on.
We spotted used wood furniture, structural items, antique tools, and various oddities inside both barns. Whatever your do-it-yourself project needs or your heart desires, Bearly Makin’ Antiques likely has it.
If you love the farm/rodeo aesthetic in Pioneer Woman style, this is your store.
Pay close attention to the store’s 
The owner was a delight, and I was sad I didn’t have more time to shop. I wanted to buy everything in sight.
Open Monday through Saturday, the owners filled two buildings with salvaged and primitive items. Start shopping outside to peruse grouped piles of rusty metalware before walking inside the buildings.
Rooms overflow with antique and seasonal decor inside the red building. The Christmas room, located up a ladder set of stairs, is not to be missed.
The second building, a well-organized barn, is filled to the brim with old housewares, farm tools, furniture, and you’ll even spot antique children’s toys.
Open Thursday and Friday afternoons and Saturdays, Father Kapaun’s early life growing up in Pilsen and his priesthood are documented using his personal belongings.
PRO TIP: Walk to the upper level of the museum and the church next door for a complete, immersive tour.
Within a short drive of Wichita, I’m delighted to have discovered Marion for its luxurious lodging, unique shops, and lake activities.
Whether you’re in the mood for on-the-water adventures or laid-back moments from a lounge chair, you’ve found the right place.
Elkhart Lake was once home to various hotels during its first 100 years. Now, tourists can choose from The Shore Club, Siebken’s Resort, and Osthoff Resort.
Open weave light fixtures, white-washed wood floors, and a neutral color palette added a Boho yet modern aesthetic to my room.
The Shore Club appeals to vacationers who seek a comfortable resort setting with on-site recreational options. A quaint lounge is a go-to space when enjoying complimentary grab-n-go breakfast items or coffee.
Every guest’s stay includes a massive arcade, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a life-sized chess game, and a private beach with access to their world-famous 
While walking the property, I discovered multiple seating areas under a canopy of towering trees with colorful hydrangeas growing nearby. A campfire comes stocked with wood for an evening s’mores session.
The Shore Club provides rentable bikes if you like cruising between resorts or surrounding neighborhoods. If you need to reserve water sports equipment, ask about kayaks.
Accessing crystal-clear Elkhart Lake is as easy as walking across the street to a sandy beach where lounge chairs and beach drinks await you. At the 
I recommend ordering the Elkhart Blue, a shaken cocktail of lemon rum, orange bitters, curaçao, and pineapple juice. The color matches the ocean-like color of the lake. It went down smoothly and was all too easy to drink.
The waterfront bar is an active music venue from May to September, Thursday to Sunday, serving drinks, local beers, and pub grub overlooking 600 feet of sandy beach.
The resort’s speakeasy lounge, 
I couldn’t resist sipping a cocktail from an oversized leather chair before a crackling fireplace.
If you’re traveling with children ages 4-10 years old, they’ll appreciate complimentary access to 
For younger couples or retirees in search of kid-free spaces to unwind, the Osthoff Resorts caters to you as well. Play a round of 18 holes of 
While I didn’t stay overnight at the resort, I did tour it and can vouch for its luxury. From the imported Irish wool carpet to the high-end dining options, The Osthoff Resort impresses.
Since 1916 when Herman and Laura Siebken opened its doors, the property has maintained its old world hospitality (aka Gemütlichkeit) while catering to today’s modern traveler.
Rentable condos and hotel rooms are coveted by returning guests, so it’s advisable to reserve your room before peak season. Each guest has access to a private beach and pier, outdoor pool and spa, the 
While I wasn’t an overnight guest at Siebkens Resort, I dined at its restaurant and toured the property. It’s a remarkable place.
At 120 feet deep, the 292 acre lake is legendary. Early settlers, the Potawatomi Indians, thought the water had healing, restorative powers.
PRO TIP: 
In the mid 1950s, Clif Tufte organized a group and built a permanent racecourse, 
If you want to get behind the wheel rather than watch a race at the track, the two-hour 
As a passenger, I laughed until my sides hurt. It was a thrilling, fun adventure and the ideal way to see fall foliage in the area.
PRO TIP: Road America is open outside of racing season offering karting, driving schools, disc golf, and group adventure programs. Don’t forget to buy a souvenir at 
During the Italian cooking class, I worked with a small group to prepare three recipes: Risotto with Asparagus, Chicken Marsala, and Strawberry Cannoli.
Chef Rodney equipped each prep station in advance so we could use the two-hour class to learn how to prep and cook food. He was patient and kind answering questions from students. And the meal? Scrumptious, and oh so fancy.
My $15 pre-loaded card easily provided several 1 oz to 3 oz pours during a one-hour tasting session. I appreciated the tasting notes between bites of chocolates or truffle crackers while lounging on a comfy couch.
PRO TIP: The retail section of the store is a gourmet foodie’s heaven.
The menu on the day of our group’s visit included fresh guacamole with ribeye, a savory beef birria taco with dipping broth, apple arugula salad tossed with chipotle vinaigrette salad, roasted potatoes, and tres leches French toast.
The food truck sits underneath a colorful canopy of Mexican party banners and adjacent to a vibrant mural painted by 
PRO TIP: You can order from Amasa’s menu inside Lake Street Cafe during the winter months. 
The place is abuzz with visitors and regulars from April through December.
The executive chef served our group a family-style meal of appetizers and Cesar salad while each of us choose a dinner entree.
PRO TIP: Ask about the bar’s selection of Wisconsin speciality cocktails and craft beers. Preview the
The newest owners of the resort make sure that every ingredient, every plating, and every menu choice delivers the best dining experience and the kitchen staff make it happen. During a dining experience, the waitstaff caters to anticipates your every need.
While a seven course meal is an exceptional dining experience at P.A.M.’s, it purpose was to showcase some of the chef’s best dishes. The first course consisted of house-catered Henninging’s fried Wisconsin cheese curds followed by Caprese Di Manzo prepared with beef tenderloin.
A small bowl of Tomato Bisque made with roasted San Marzano tomatoes, Wisconsin cream, and balsamic reduction made the second course worthwhile. Followed by the famous P.A.M.’s Salad consisting of leafy greens, roasted squash, goat cheese, onion, and Marcona almonds, the second course’s salad was perfectly tossed with Siebkens Dressing.
For the dinner course, guests chose between three specialty entrees. My choice? Prime Rib presented with roasted broccolini on a bed of au jus and creamy horseradish. My tastebuds danced with each bite.
I couldn’t eat another bite when the final course, a plate of brownie bites, arrived. The meal was as memorable as it was delightful.
The tavern’s menu serves food Thursday-Sunday (hours vary) and the bar is open late. But you won’t find standard bar food at the Stop-Inn Tavern.
Menu items like Smoked Salmon Salad, Tacos de Hongo, and the infamous Siebkens Sandwich made with deli meat piled high with all the fixing on freshly baked sliced bread keep guests returning.
At 
With windows facing Elkhart Lake, our group savored lobster bisque, Caesar salad, and dinner entreés from a nice-looking dining room.
For dinner, I chose a perfectly seared 12 0z. ribeye plated on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes served with seasonal vegetables. The meal and the dinner service were impeccable.
They offer a wide range of body treatments and facials, and their newest Salt Therapy Room is considered one of the best in the country.
The 
Located near crystal-clear Elkhart Lake with views of cedar trees, the award-winning spa provides a serene setting to turn off the world’s chaos and unwind.
Use 
And you’ll find more than puffy jackets and flannel shirts for sale. Elkhart Lake Outfitters stocks everything from cookbooks and candles to bath salts and souvenirs.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend at least 30 minutes pursuing the shelves and racks.
Operated by a husband and wife duo, the property showcases each of their life-long talents.
PRO TIP: The gallery is open September – November on Friday and Saturdays and 
The boutique also sells the Aspira Spa Signature Product Line. If you love the body and facial products used in a spa treatment, purchase them to take home with you.
Not only is the operation led by a Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker, 
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.
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.
The geologic formations and rolling rolls make the drive in this area of Russell County spectacular. Kansas is NOT flat. In fact, many mountain bikers like to twist and jump along the Switchgrass Bike Trail that winds 7.5 miles over the hills. Not much for adrenaline sports? Wilson Lake is also a 
I continued on Hwy 232 from Wilson Lake to 
With the 
More artistic talent is on view at the 
Many of the artists’ works show their appreciation for recycling objects to find new uses for them. I suggest you step inside the building’s old bank vault to see the work of Overland Park artist, James Peruca. He used recycled objects to create art that surrounds the viewer. What do you recognize in the photo below?
Admission to the Grassroots Art Center doesn’t necessarily include a guided tour but the helpful employee that works there is more than happy to provide background information about the artwork on display. If you spy a piece that you’d love to take home with you, there is a good chance it’s for sale.
I was fascinated by Dinsmoor’s use of wire and cement to build massive structures that told a story. The photo below shows his interpretation of bringing down civilization. The Goddess of Liberty has one foot on the trusts. The man and woman are sawing off the “chartered rights limb,” which represents Dinsmoor’s thoughts on big business overtaking an individual’s rights.
I sarcastically mumbled to myself during the tour of his property, “Because, why not? That seems perfectly normal.” For its wow factor, I recommend visiting the Garden of Eden, located 16 miles north of KS I-70. Admission includes a self-guided sculpture tour, however, the employee on-site eagerly took me and a visiting family around the property.
After lunch, I dug in my heels and started checking out the town. The murals of Russell are eye-catching. When traveling along KS I-70, pull over into this quaint town to see them up close.
The home of U.S. Senator Bob Dole, the area honors veterans, agricultural, oil refining, and their residents with beautiful street art. Other attractions worth seeking out include Bob Dole’s childhood home, downtown shops, and 
Driving through town, I saw buildings made with the region’s most readily available material, limestone. The churches, schools, and early homes in Russell were constructed with stunning sedimentary rock. Visitors can pay to tour some of them like the 
With a bit of exploring under my belt, I drove to 
Not far from my hotel, I checked in and found the hotel and amenities comfortable. 
Near the hotel, 
Russell is a town that I passed without stopping along KS I-70 from Kansas to Colorado dozens of times. My mistake! Russell and the surrounding towns offer travelers warm hospitality and sights that surprise them. Good people, interesting attractions, and a variety of dining options make Russell County a sure-win.
