Disclaimer: My experiences were hosted by Fredericksburg Convention & Visitor Bureau during a Geiger & Associates press trip. All opinions and photos are mine.
There is something special about Fredericksburg, Texas. It’s a feeling you get the moment you arrive in town. The Hill Country town, founded in 1846, is deeply rooted in its German heritage while remaining true to modern life.
Award-winning restaurants, an almost endless winery trail, boutiques, and picture-worthy lodging make the town visit-worthy.
After a first-time visit, you may not want to leave.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE
WEATHER
Winter’s temperatures crest in the upper 60 degrees, and summer nights cool off in the pleasant 70-degree range.
GETTING AROUND
As a first-time visitor, you should provide a vehicle, especially if staying overnight at lodging outside of town. You’ll want a car when driving along the Urban Wine Trail beyond town. If you prefer not to drive, reserve a wine bus tour.
Parking downtown is free, and plenty of it is along Main Street or behind Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor’s Center (302 E. Austin St.), plus they provide accessible public bathrooms.
Additionally, Fredericksburg Tours is an excellent way to learn about the German history of the town in one hour from a climate-controlled luxury trolley.
SAVORING LOCAL FLAVOR
You can expect an almost endless list of restaurants to choose from when dining in Fredericksburg. After dining at several of them, I can confidently recommend casual and fine dining establishments worthy of sharing with others.
CASUAL DINING
Whether your tastebuds crave a slice of pizza or oak-smoked brisket with a side of creamy mac-n-cheese, you’ll find it on the menu at locally owned eateries downtown.
West End Pizza Company
This restaurant is more than a typical pizza joint. You won’t find pies under heat lamps at West End Pizza Company. (207 E. San Antonio St.). The menu comprises of made-to-order specialty and custom pizzas, pasta, and irresistible appetizers ideal for sharing.
I was fond of the restaurant’s capese made with custom seasoned ricotta cheese and the top-selling double-meat pizza, The Meatza. Perhaps a nod to Chicago pizza, the pie arrived at the table sliced in squares, which I found a novel idea. The crust was medium in thickness.
PRO TIP: The community-forward restaurant is family-friendly, featuring outdoor seating/play areas, and TVs are available to watch the game indoors. Every table is adorned with a board game meant to prompt conversation for all ages.
Eaker Barbecue
You’ve probably enjoyed good barbecue but have yet to indulge in a mouth-watering at Eaker Barbecue (607 W. Main St.), where traditional cooking techniques mesh with Korean flavor. And when Texas Monthly‘s barbecue editor includes it on the list of The 50 Best BBQ Joints, you know you’ve arrived at the right place.
Lance Eaker, and his wife, Boo, serve barbecue enthusiasts food that is undeniably delicious. During my visit, I sampled a taste of their slow-smoked meats and side dishes. I’m a fan of Korean spice, so I appreciated the marinated and smoked gochujang pork ribs with a side of kimchi. For traditionalists, Eaker’s dry rub ribs, pulled pork, and country-style sausage links satisfy.
PRO TIP: Build in time to sneak away and watch the master at work outdoors at the smokers while the kitchen prepares your meal. Don’t leave without devouring dessert. Boozy Banana Pudding, Pecan Pie Bar, and Lemon Cookies are heavenly.
FINE DINING
Fredericksburg’s fine dining restaurant scene is flourishing, and many kitchens’ award-winning chefs deserve the accolades. You can count on menu selections to list regionally sourced ingredients, often highlighting the area’s abundance of pecan and peach production.
Cabernet Grill Texas Wine Restaurant
At Cabernet Grill (2805 S. State Hwy 16), gourmet food combined with elegant presentation is a normal occurrence. Additionally, the restaurant anchors a complex of restored pioneer homes turned bed and breakfast, Cotton Gin Village.
During our multi-course dinner, the chef’s interpretation of Bacon Wrapped Grilled Lockhart Quail stuffed with Pulled Pork & Candied Jalapeño Cream Cheese impressed me. Under dim lights surrounded by wine racks, I savored every bite of San Saba Pecan Crusted Goat Cheese and Petite Butterscotch and Walnut Bread Pudding with Salted Caramel Ice Cream between wine pairings.
PRO TIP: Cabernet Grill is known for its list of Texas-produced wines. Ask about three-glass flights consisting of four-ounce pours. Not a drinker? The bar serves four un-inebriated cocktails.
Alla Campagna
Alla Campagna (342 W. Main St) is one of the newest restaurants in town, delivering Tuscan-like vibes and serving homemade pasta dishes. Groups will appreciate the large outdoor patio surrounded by stone walls and a hand-chiseled water feature. A cozy indoor dining room suits couples and solo travelers.
The kitchen produces large portions of Italian salads, soups, and pasta. Roasted Chicken Creamy White Sauce served over Handmade Pasta topped with Pine Nuts and Parsley proved an excellent menu choice.
Sage Restaurant and Lounge
At Sage Restaurant and Lounge (241 E. Austin St.), the staff goes above and beyond to impress and create an atmosphere that makes a lasting impression. Founded by friends of various culinary backgrounds, they spared no expense in creating a stunning dining lounge and patio.
While I didn’t have time to enjoy dinner, I was privileged enough to enjoy Sage’s Signature Old Fashioned and small bites . If you made a reservation, expect modern cuisine in the downtown stairs dining room or libations served in the second-story speakeasy-style lounge.
Fischer & Weiser Culinary Adventure Cooking School
Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School (1405 US-87 S.) teaches the art of crafting dishes with farm-to-table ingredients and how to entertain guests. The multi-generational, family-owned business is a brand name with condiments and sauces finding their way to dining tables everywhere.
At private cooking classes of eight people or more, you can choose the menu and pace or select from existing menus. Although I didn’t take the class, the chef’s cooking demonstrated mastery.
PRO TIP: Das Peach Haus, which is located on-site to select from over 150 jarred preserves, bottled sauces, and packaged gourmet foods. The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce® and Texas Agarita Jelly® are best sellers.
DESSERT DESTINATIONS
Chocolat
Visiting Chocolat (251 W. Main St.) is better than Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory because you can sample the sweets. The owner and chocolatier studied with the best in the business before developing spirit-filled chocolates. Vodka, whiskey, wine-filled chocolates, you name it, she’s probably perfected it. My go-to? Irish cream.
PRO TIP: If you’re extra sweet to the owner, she may take you on a tour of the backroom production facility.
Pritzer Sweet Shop
Don’t be ashamed of your sweet tooth – celebrate it at Pritzer Sweet Shop (141 E. Main St.), where they understand your love of irresistible baked goods. The quaint shop sells goodies like the Sweet German Pretzel, Hazelnut Chocolate Croissant, and Cowboy Cookie.
Clear River Ice Cream, Bakery & Deli
I couldn’t pass up a chance to indulge in creamy Texas peach ice cream at Clear River Ice Cream, Bakery, & Deli (138 E. Main St.). Choose from dozens of homemade ice cream flavors served in a cup or cone. If you’re searching for something more substantial to eat for breakfast or lunch, view the bakery and lunch menus.
COFFEE SHOPS
Kaffee Haus
Shoppers who need to refuel with a boost of caffeine should stop at Kaffee Haus (218 E. Main St.) where the espresso drinks are strong. During my one-hour whirlwind shopping tour, a frothy vanilla latté in a to-go cup was exactly what I needed. Good luck leaving with only a coffee. The Snickledoodle cookies are tempting.
Sunday Supply
Sunday Supply (206 S Adams St.), an early morning or mid-afternoon hangout, is a short drive beyond Main Street, where java lovers are in good company. If you’ve already enjoyed coffee on the day of your visit, consider a hot tea and pair it with a freshly baked kolache. The savory Czech pastry is a Texas breakfast staple.
SIPPING CRAFT COCKTAILS & BEER
Drinkers interested in sipping spirits or craft beer will find many places to toast to the town with Texas Heart and German Soul.
DIETZ DISTILLERY
Dietz Distillery (1434 S. US Hwy 87) is a small-batch spirts producer with family roots in the area. The distillery is located near the family’s orchard, so some of the distillates are fruit-forward. The owner’s Texas-style gin and raspberry flavored vodka appear in cocktail recipes served from the tasting room bar – order the Berry Lemon Drop.
An un-oaked peach aperitif, as well as the other bottled spirits, are available for purchase.
FREDERICKSBURG BREWING COMPANY
Fredericksburg Brewing Company (245 E. Main St.), established in 1994, is the oldest operating brewpub in Texas. The list of over 20 varieties of beers is ever-changing, and you can expect to find German brew favorites on the menu.
Drink a pint of Honey Kölsch seated in the indoor biergarten or enjoy it with a traditional Wurst Sandwich or Jager Schnitzel in the dining room.
SAMPLING VINO AT HILL COUNTRY WINERIES
AB ASTRIS WINERY
Ab Abstris Winery (320 Klein Rd.) should be your first stop when touring wineries for its quality pours, outdoor scenery, and kind staff who make you feel at home. After a tasting flight, the wine will be just as good, if not better, than the California or Oregon varieties you may be accustomed to drinking.
One hundred percent of the grapes are grown in Texas, creating quality wine – don’t leave without sampling crisp 2022 Aurora Rosé and bold 2017 Tannat. Reservations are required for groups of six people or more.
SIGNOR VINEYARDS
Signor Vineyards (362 Livesay Ln.), voted USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Best Winery Tour 2022, is a popular stop on the wine trail. More than just a tasting room, the complex features an event space, grab-n-go food at Joanna’s Market, and manicured gardens.
The owners use Texas and Oregon grapes to produce reds, whites, and rosés. Walk-ins welcome, or opt for a private tasting with a lead wine steward. Order a full 2019 Sangiovese Rogue Valley glass to accompany an artfully crafted charcuterie board.
MEIERSTONE VINEYARDS
Meierstone Vineyards (573 Meier-Stone Rd.) is one of the newest additions to the wine scene, and drop-ins are welcome. Voted Top Texas Wine at the 2024 Houston International Wine Competition, you can expect nearly 12 current-release wines to be sampled at the tasting room on the family’s ranch. Curated tastings last about an hour.
My wine tasting, 2021 Airship, delivered medium-bodied, delightful cherry notes.
SHOPPING ON MAIN STREET AND BEYOND
Fredericksburg is a shopper’s delight with over 150 boutiques and retail stores. Most of the shops are located on Main Street. Park your car (free!) and walk up and down the corridor to discover clothing, kitchenware, jewelry, western wear, candles, and more.
HOME DECOR AND BATH
DISH
Located less than a five-minute drive from Main Street, Dish (305 S. Lincoln St.) is part of an extensive collection of stores within the Woerner Warehouse complex. Collections of colored glass, kitchenware, cookbooks and textiles featuring casual, Texas style are available for purchase.
CAROL HICKS BOLTON ANTIQÜITÉS
Imagine a warehouse with antique European-style cabinets and furniture as far as the eye can see. At Carol Hicks Bolton Antiqütiés (301 S. Lincoln St.), the items for sale are as unique as the collectors in search of them.
Curiosities ranging from eyeglasses to mercury balls sit inside glass tables. Rusty pulleys and industrial tools hang from the ceiling on strings.
ROOM NO. 5
The designed beds inside Room No. 5 (301 S. Lincoln St.) deliver country style meets shabby chic elegance. Homeowners hoping to redesign a bedroom with linens or get inspired by living room vignettes showcasing neutral tones and textures will feel inclined to shop.
BLACK CHALK HOME & LAUNDRY
The home interiors shopping continues across the street at Black Chalk Home & Laundry (306 S. Lincoln St.). The building is a historic showpiece consisting of hand-curated gifts and home decor pieces.
Don’t be surprised if you’re inclined to purchase a brightly colored, embroidered pillow, a woven chair for home, or perhaps a beaded necklace for yourself.
SAN SABA SOAP COMPANY
The owner of San Saba Soap Company (102 W. Austin St.) knew they were on to something grand when they used Texas pecan oil to develop a bath, skincare, and fragrance line like no other. Each product is scented with a subtle, uni-sex fragrance.
I can vouch that the perfume oil was not overpowering and long-lasting. The Texas Fig bath soap lathered well and softened my skin.
GOURMET FOOD
RUSTLIN’ ROB’S TEXAS GOURMET FOODS
In search of a gourmet food store, the locals told me I had to stop at Rustlin’ Rob’s (121 E. Main St.) where I spent least a half-hour perusing store shelves and sampling condiments. Jars of spicy jams, spreads, mustards, and sauces are stacked from counter to ceiling in organized alcoves – spicy versions available in each category.
DAS PEACH HAUS
They say, “life taste better here” at Das Peach Haus (315 E. Main St.). The owners started peddling peach preserves and agarita jelly as a vendor at local events, and today the business is booming. Known for its Texas-inspired dips, salsas, marinades, and jellies, Das Peach Haus appeals to kitchen cooks who want to take the flavor of Texas home.
ART
FREDERICKSBURG ART GUILD
Creatives and wannabe artists will appreciate the town’s art galleries, especially Fredericksburg Art Guild (308 E. Austin St.), which is within walking distance of the visitor’s center. The gallery features artists’ work of various mediums, often depicting natural scenes from Texas Hill Country.
During my tour, I viewed the annual adult student art exhibition and talked to artists. Plan your visit by viewing the calendar of events.
EXPLORING HISTORICAL LANDMARKS & MUSEUMS
GERMAN HERITAGE
German families settled in Texas hoping to find better work opportunities and inexpensive land. They also wanted to leave overcrowding conditions in Germany. Founded in 1846, John O. Meusebach chose the area and appealed to Germans to relocate there. Settlers were promised in-town lots and 10 acres outside of Fredericksburg.
Meusebach negotiated with the already present Comanche Native American tribesmen. German settlers were allowed to farmland, and the Comanche were welcomed in town.
The town’s German heritage is evident wherever you go. Authentic food and drink is served at restaurants and breweries. Oktoberfest honors Fredericksburg as the Polka Capital of Texas.
VEREINS KIRCHE MUSEUM
German settlers built Vereins Kirche (100 W. Main St.), the first public building in town, which was erected in 1846 to serve as a community building, school, and church. Today, a replica with original beams and cornerstone stands in Marktplaz city park in the center of Fredericksburg.
I recommend touring the building at the onset of your trip to town to get a glimpse into the town’s history to present day. Buy the Pioneer Museum day pass, which includes admission to Vereins Kirche.
PRO TIP: Look up upon entry. The murals, created by Lee and Matt Casbeer, are a pictorial history of the town’s German heritage.
PIONEER MUSEUM
Pioneer Museum (325 W. Main St.) is a must-visit attraction. Visitors learn about the town’s earliest residents and how they lived in the 1840s. German families left their country hoping for a better way of life and quickly learned to acclimate to the Texas climate.
During a self-guided tour, I walked in and out of homestead buildings, each showcasing artifacts and preserved architecture. Motion sensors detected my entry into the log cabin and Sunday House prompting an audio narration that provided context.
The Pioneer Museum and surrounding grounds take at least an hour to tour. The museum was voted a top destination to bring children because of its living history experiences and Little Pioneers programs. Reactors interpret history in period clothing on the first Saturday of the each month.
PRO TIP: The museum gift shop is the quintessential place to purchase Texas-themed gifts and seasonal merchandise.
SUNDAY HOUSES
What is a Sunday House? It’s an 1800s-era residence built by rural families to use while visiting town on the weekends. Families would leave the farm and come to town to shop on Saturday and attend church services on Sunday. Many of the tiny two-story residences serve as renovated rental properties today.
WAR HISTORY
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PACIFIC WAR
National Museum of the Pacific War (311 E. Austin St.) is an impressive attraction where visitors can easily spend an entire day learning about the events of WWII in the Pacific.
Start the tour inside the Wells Orientation Theater for a visual summary of the war and tour galleries featuring interactive stations and artifacts of each battle, ending with the Price of Freedom exhibit.
I suspect you’ll appreciate the enormity of the the museum and its high-tech displays. The Children on the Homefront: Growing Up With War may leave you speechless.
Outside, a sidewalk winds visitors through the Plaza of Presidents, Memorial Courtyard, and Japanese Garden of Peace. There, the sound of falling water and koi splashing create a peaceful setting.
General admission gains visitors access to galleries, outdoor areas, and the Pacific Combat Zone. For some military or history enthusiasts, touring the museum compound is easily an all-day experience.
PRO TIP: Learn about Fredericksburg native Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, who led the United States naval force over Japan. His statue is visible from Main Street.
LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS WITH SERENITY
THE VINE ON MIDDLE CREEK
Do you love starry night skies and time spent around the fire pit at night enjoying peace and quiet? What about blood-orange sunrises and golden sunsets?
The Vine on Middle Creek (1027 Middle Creek Rd.) is a tranquil country retreat, located 10 minutes outside downtown Fredericksburg.
To access the property, guests drive past their vineyard and drive a short winding road to the bed and breakfast property located underneath a canopy of oak trees. To my delight, each guest is assigned a beautiful bedroom suite complete with a walk-in shower and jacuzzi tub.
Each of the eight suites comes with a California King-sized bed featuring remote massage setting in direct view of an electric fireplace and flatscreen television. The owner considered the guests’ experience when adding plush towels, full-sized toiletries, a Keurig coffee maker, a valuable’s safe, and an umbrella for rainy weather days.
I enjoyed sitting outdoors admiring the view from a private porch swing when I wasn’t playing with the property’s cute dog, Zoey. In the morning, I walked a short distance to the community building for a home-cooked breakfast.
Guests are encouraged to use the community space as if it’s theirs by enjoying a roaring fire with a glass of wine. The owner and his team of helpful friends quickly ensure that each guests feels 100 percent comfortable and welcome during their stay.
A first-time visitor to Fredericksburg, I could easily see myself returning to the place Architectural Digest named “the prettiest town.”
With so much to love about Fredericksburg, you should plan your trip around their calendar of events – Oktoberfest, Food & Wine Fest, and Light the Night Christmas Parade draw crowds.
And while you’re planning your adventure, consider combining it with a trip to the Texas capital city, only 78 miles from Fredericksburg. Discover How to Spend 48 Hours in Austin, Texas, my travel guide featuring downtown restaurants and attractions.
During my visit, I was met by the town’s top historian, Paul, who took me on a guided tour of Lecompton’s landmarks and businesses. It’s not every day that your tour guide is dressed as a reenactor or as the infamous Samuel Jones, a Douglas County sheriff who helped Lecompton play a role in the Bleeding Kansas conflict. This was going to be fun.
The meal was scrumptious and the menu prices were reasonable for the portion sizes. If you’re passing through northeast Kansas in route to Lawrence or Bonner Springs, stop by for a plate of pancakes, biscuits and sausage gravy, or breakfast sandwich. The lunch menu is just as appetizing. (View the cafe’s hours 
As Paul introduced me to the history of Lecompton, he pointed out the wall decorated with the town’s history “The Lecompton Swindle”. I quickly surmised that Lecompton was a town prideful about making its mark in history dating back to its founding in 1854.
Constitution Hall is listed as a National Landmark, Kansas Historic Site and was a finalist as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Built in 1856, it was the site where the Lecompton Constitution was written by pro-slavery advocates.
The famous document was rejected in the 1858 election. To learn more about how Kansas was eventually admitted to the Union as a free state on January 29, 1861, visit 
Of course, it was fitting that Paul had a key to the jail. He ushered me inside. After a few seconds of standing in the musty dark room, I was ready to exit. There was very little sunlit peeking through the iron window bars.
The story goes that Jones, a pro-slavery sheriff, was shot in the back by free state forces. He helped in the effort to burn down Lawrence, Kansas in 1856. His original tombstone was moved from Las Cruces, New Mexico, and sits on display in front of the jail.
The museum sits on the former 13-acre Lecompton capital square district and was constructed in 1855. The budget was $50,000, but eventually, the money ran out. When antislavery legislators gained control of the territorial legislature, the location of Kansas’ capital was moved to Topeka. This action was detrimental to the town. Later, the building became known as Lane University where reportedly seventy-five co-ed students studied there.
I’d recommend devoting about an hour of your time in town to tour the museum. Admission is free, but a $3 donation is kindly accepted. If you have questions about the artifacts in the cases, a volunteer is on hand to answer them for you. View the museum’s hours 
While Vickie prepped pumpkins for a future wine, Troy told that it takes six months from fermentation to bottling to produce a taste-worthy wine. Opened in January 2021, visitors can choose from four dry wines and 12 semi-sweet wines for a tasting flight.
Empty Nester’s Winery focuses on quality wine and excellent customer service. They host game night on Thursdays and invite a food truck to park out front on occasion. To view the winery’s hours and learn about entertaining events, view the 
Open since 2010, shoppers are greeted by Kathy and her employees with a warm smile and helped them find “goods for the journey.” It’s only appropriate that Kathy owns a store in the heart of Lecompton since she is a descendant of Albert G. Boone, one of the town’s founders. He was also a shopkeeper.
The store hosts flea market events on Elmore Street as well as Fabric Fridays. Kathy said she has plans to expand her business and bring in more sellers. Stay up-to-date on Bald Eagle Mercantile happenings 
Shoppers are surrounded by walls of colorful artwork and an abundance of handcrafted jewelry for sale. Rings resemble twisted metalwork. Earrings made from leather and beads dangle on display. Clay pots hold earrings and bracelets designed with care.
If you’re not able to make it to Lecompton, you can still shop the boutique online. C&C Clothing sells items live via Facebook every Thursday at 7pm. Never miss a moment of the shopping fun by following the Facebook page 
Completed last June, “Resilience” is a 60′ mural funded by donations to Lecompton Community Pride. Wright recently finished a painting of the former Lecompton High School, which is on display at the entrance to the building. Visit Wright’s 
Other visitors stop by to indulge in delicious burgers served fresh to order for each customer. When you visit, simply walk up to the counter meat counter and place your order. Once it’s finished, you can add burger toppings from the self-service salad bar nearby. My single cheeseburger was scrumptious. It alone was worth stopping at Kroegers to enjoy.
Did you learn something new about Kansas history? Perhaps you’ve already visited Lecompton? Share your comments below. I’d love to hear from you.
One of the perks of staying at the hotel is valet parking, which is the only way to park your car when at the hotel. It’s convenient, the valet staff works around the clock, and always greets you with a smile. They’ll even advise you where to dine out in Aggieville if you ask. Don’t forget to tip the staff.
The rooms are well designed with plenty of room to enjoy one’s stay. My room included a couch (in KSU’s purple, of course!), a plush king bed, and in-room amenities, including a refrigerator. With a view of campus, I could envision KSU families staying here when attending events on campus.
Other amenities you can expect while at Courtyard by Marriott include a fitness center open 24/7, a Starbucks coffee bar featuring small plate breakfast items, and an exquisite lounge with a gas fireplace. Order a cocktail or locally made craft beer at the bar and head to the outdoor patio for a pre-dinner drink.
A bit of nostalgia and a bit of class. the cafe’s interior transports you to aviation heaven. Navy blue walls, black and white prints of airplanes, and a cozy fireplace invite you to nestle up with a coffee in hand. Jazz music plays in the background.
I couldn’t leave without buying a gorgeous bracelet made with recycled magazine paper by women in Haiti. The company’s owner created the company after visiting the country and seeing poverty firsthand. Each purchase of Papillon jewelry supports at-risk mothers and fathers with full-time jobs in Haiti. How could I not buy it? View the store’s hours 
I was shocked at the reasonable prices. The racks, table, and shoe wall were stocked full of items I wanted to take home. You’ll appreciate the way the store is set up making selecting new apparel favorites easy. Start at the front of the store to peruse racks of new arrivals. But there’s more!
Make your way to the back to find everyday essentials and sale clothing. I can easily see why this store is popular with locals. It carries the latest looks perfect for women of every size and style. If you can’t make it to the store, you can shop online and ship it to you 
Shoppers on the hunt for home decor reminiscent of Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn will feel right at home at Furnish. The showroom is filled with neutral hues with black accents. Homeowners in search of lighting, chairs, and kitchenware are in luck.
The burning candle’s scent drew me to the shelf you see below. I was happy to see a candle that I’ve purchased many times in Wichita from Nectar Republic. Nearby, accessories ranging from picture frames to books completed the vignette.
The creaky floors and the perfectly illuminated framed artwork draw you in. Every wall of every room is adorned with artwork for sale, including pottery. While some pieces deservedly command a higher price, I found many affordable prices for the casual shopper discovering new artwork.
As a native Kansan who spends countless hours driving across the state, I appreciate the works that featured the Kansas prairie. Landscapes by Kim Casebeer and Cristine Sundquist on display showed cloud-filled skies and the sun’s rays upon the flint hills. You’ll be impressed by the breadth and quality of the collections.
Since 1981, SNW Gallery has curated and displayed paintings, prints, drawings, mixed media, and more. Intricately designed jewelry is nestled near the register. Whether shopping for yourself or someone else, you’re bound to walk away from SNW Gallery with a special piece.
Keep your eyes peeled during a visit to the brewery for tiny plastic dinosaurs. The mural on the back wall makes for a nice selfie backdrop. (Female Readers: During your self-guided tour of the brewing, check out the bathroom. I’m going to leave it at that.)
As I sat at the bar and finished a Bodacious Blackberry Milkshake IPA, I learned that one of the top-selling drinks behind the bar wasn’t even a beer. It’s their house-made sangria.
Soon, Jake and I were joined at the bar. Brewers Garrett and Adam ponied grabbed a seat. Before I knew it, the four of us were walking a few doors down to 
The lunch crowd clearly loved El Patron as much as I did. They drew a good size crowd made up of downtown workers and tourists. Looking around the restaurant at the plates on the tables, people were devouring fajitas, burritos, and seafood entrees. El Patron is a solid choice for lunch or dinner. View their 
Under cloud-filled skies, I walked to the top of the gravel trail to peek out over the town. If you have time, make the easy drive only minutes west of Manhattan off of Kansas Highway 113. (Ask Siri or Google Maps to navigate it.) You get a 360-degree view of the college town. Dog walkers love it. Bike trails welcome cyclists. It’s a beautiful setting.
Visit the statue to stand in awe and read about the KSU professor, Dr. George Filinger, who invented the fictional character to honor the town’s 100th anniversary of its founding. The park includes a swimming pool, splash pad, and playground equipment perfect for a family visit.
The football field was covered with marching band members moving in formation and playing an energizing song. The band’s director shouted from a megaphone, “Remember guys, we could make it to the bowl game. Again!”
No matter what alma mater you hail from, you need to tour the beautiful KSU campus.
With the game on TV, I wanted chicken wings. They arrived piping hot. The sauce had medium heat, and the blue cheese dressing cooled it off. While it wasn’t an entree, it hit the spot. Kite’s Aggieville is a good place to visit for what I thought was the coldest beer in town. You’ll appreciate the cloth napkins and the elevated menu. View the location and hours 
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.
I loved walking around downtown Hays and imagining it as a lawless town. Many of the original buildings have been restored. The photo below shows the historic George Philip Hardware building, established in 1894, at 719 Main Street.
The 100-room hotel features a restaurant and bar, indoor pool, fitness room, and free parking. I was shocked at the size of my room. It was larger than some of my college apartments.
Hilton Garden Inn is one of those hotels where you look back at the sign as you leave and think, “I want to stay here again.” It’s modern, spacious, clean, and has many awesome amenities. A pet-friendly hotel, I feel good knowing that the next time I visit, I can bring my four-legged family member with me during my return trip to Hays.
The 
The museum’s paleontology area allows visitors to get an up-close view of animatronic dinosaurs, prehistoric animals, sea swimming creatures, and fish that lived in Kansas over 80 million years ago. It was a different world when the seas flooded North America. The museum’s exhibits give visitors a glimpse into the past.
A major draw of the museum is its collection of fossils found in the Great Plains, which largely exists because of the work of Charles H. Sternberg. He collected fossils in Kansas starting in 1867.
Because of their lab testing and research, rural farmers know how to improve their methods resulting in a better harvest or herd. From cattle nutrition to land management and plant pathology to entomology, the folks at the center work year-round to learn from nature. In fact, it was at the KSU Agricultural Research Center that many of the biggest contributions to the science of farming took place. Using ultrasound information at the center helped scientists learn more about beef marbling, which led to the USDA’s grading system for quality.
I chose a seat at the bar so I could have a clear view of the brewers at work behind the glass wall. My bartender was friendly and happy to provide a few beer samples until I eventually decided on a pint of the unfiltered Grapefruit Radler. Undecided between two lunch options, she persuaded me to order a local’s favorite, a Smothered Bierock covered in creamy cheese sauce with homemade chips. She also ensured my meal came with creamy bacon horseradish and sweet onion dip to eat with the chips. Lunch never tasted so good! And the beer? It was crisp and aromatic. I’d order it again. Maybe a growler of it.
Knowing that I didn’t have room left for dessert, I ordered the French Toast Brulèe anyway. The crisp exterior gave way to a pillowy center as my spoon cracked into it. Combined with vanilla bean ice cream and fresh whipped cream, it was beyond delicious.
I recommend stopping at Gella’s for lunch or dinner whenever you’re in Hays. The restaurant is large enough that it can easily accommodate groups. Menu prices were reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. If you drink craft beer, you can expect 12 taps, with two rotating regularly.
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.
