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Manhattan

The Road is Calling: KS I-70 East

January 4, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

There’s nothing better than a road trip.  Packing the snacks. Loading the bags into the car. The anticipation of taking to the open road.

The only thing left to do is set the car on cruise control along KS I-70 from Junction City to Kansas City, Kansas. I’ve made the planning easy. Use the links below to help you explore the best of each town along your route.

JUNCTION CITY

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.

Rich in military history, Heritage Park offers visitors a chance to pay their respects at numerous memorials. Junction City also attracts outdoor enthusiasts since Milford Lake is considered the largest lake in the state and the “Fishing Capital of Kansas.” Getting hungry from exploring the outdoors? Stacy’s Restaurant serves an authentic diner breakfast menu, Hot Rod’z smokes some of the best barbecue in the area, and Bella’s Italian Restaurant knows how to make customers happy with pasta entrees baked to perfection.

View a complete itinerary here.

MANHATTAN

The more time I spend in Manhattan, the more I love it. The college town, home to Kansas State University, has what seems to be an endless list of things to do ranging from outdoor recreation to indoor dining.

From Aggieville to Downtown Manhattan, there are more than enough quaint boutiques to shop and on-trend restaurants to try. Start the day at Flight Crew Coffee, dine on delectable tacos at El Toro, and enjoy a pub grub for dinner at Kite’s Draft House. Plan time to stop at Manhattan Brewing Company and Tallgrass Tap House where craft beer connoisseurs feel at home.

I recommend planning ahead for a well-spent trip to the college town. You’ll walk away with fond memories and plans to return again.

View a complete itinerary here.

TOPEKA

Topeka is a city that intrigues me. It’s a metropolis of doers, makers, and creative people. Its attractions reflect a spirit of progress. I was impressed by its eclectic arts scene, restaurant options, and historical museums. When given the chance to Exit I-70 to Topeka and stay overnight, do it. You won’t be disappointed.

If you get the opportunity to choose your accommodations for an overnight stay in Topeka, I hope you’ll choose the Cyrus Hotel. Not only does it make for a comfortable stay in the heart of the city, but the amenities spoil you.

Explore the Kansas Museum of History, Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site, tour the Kansas Statehouse, and shop eclectic stores in the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District. Take a break for lunch at The Pennant or choose upscale dining and cocktails at Fedeli’s Steak & Pasta Restaurant & Bar.

View a complete itinerary here.

LECOMPTON

One aspect of travel that motivates me to take to the road is to learn about an area’s history. Take Exit 197 from Kansas I-70 to Lecompton and you have arrived at the Birthplace of the Civil War and the Territorial Capital of Kansas from 1855-1861.

Located between Topeka and Lawrence, the quaint town is home to a friendly community that welcomes tourists interested in learning about its impact on American history. In addition to historical buildings and tours, travelers will appreciate the downtown area for its charming small businesses. Enjoy breakfast at Aunt Netters Cafe before exploring the area and leave time to sip wine at Empty Nester’s Winery before ending the day shopping for sausage and steaks at Kroeger Country Meats.

View a complete itinerary here.

LAWRENCE

As a University of Kansas graduate, Lawrence is like a home away from home for me. I was thrilled when I was invited to return to town to highlight the campus from a tourist’s perspective. KU has a long list of attractions that make it unique and worth checking out, from museums and eateries to sports arenas and historical landmarks.

Touring the KU campus offers visitors a chance to fall in love with its many attractions. Whether you’re a sports fan or simply love touring historical museums, I know you’ll find your experience on campus to be a positive one. For dining options, I recommend McClain’s Market for breakfast, Johnny’s Tavern North to devour scratch-made pizza by the slice, and 715 Restaurant for an unmatched upscale dining experience that will exceed your expectations.

View a complete itinerary here.

BONNER SPRINGS

Have you ever driven into a town for the first time and instantly fallen in love with it? Bonner Springs won me over for its small-town charm and big-city attractions. Located off of KS I-70 Exit 224, the community promises visitors a warm welcome and a multitude of things to do.

The tucked-away town near Kansas City offers visitors incredible downtown shopping. Coffee shops are often a place for the community to gather and enjoy an espresso and Third Space Coffee fits the bill. Other attractions like Moon Marble Company, The Fuel House, and Quentin’s BBQ guarantee a good time. Treat yourself to an ice cream float at Old Mill Ice Cream Shop or end the evening with a cocktail at Ten & Two Coffee Bar.

View a complete itinerary here.

SHAWNEE

I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t love Shawnee. No matter what you’re looking for in a city, they’ve got it. Voted one of the “Best Small Cities in America,” you definitely want to experience it. My travel itinerary was long, but I was determined to hit as many places on it as I could. Shopping downtown? Check. A tour of a historic theatre? Check. Drinking wine in a castle? Don’t mind if I do.

The city touts the phrase “good starts here,” and now I understand why. From its incredible attractions to exquisite dining options, it is worthy of an overnight visit when in the Kansas City area. The award-winning town deserves the accolades it gets.

View the itinerary here.

LEAVENWORTH

Leavenworth is the ideal choice for an overnight stay to explore the state’s history and appreciate modern attractions. From breakfast time until long after the sun goes down, the northeastern Kansas town has more than enough entertaining things to do including shopping, dining, and strolling the historic district.

Located between Fort Leavenworth and Kansas City, the location was the first city of Kansas established in 1854. History runs deep in this part of the state. You’ll appreciate its historic homes, dynamic eateries (enjoy pasta at Luigi’s 418), and a vibrant downtown shopping scene. The buildings’ architecture is stunning.

View a complete itinerary here.

KANSAS CITY

Kansas City, Kansas is a go-to destination for culturally diverse attractions, big-city shopping, and restaurants worthy of the all-star status. Go-to attractions range from big-city shopping at Legends Outlets and Cabela’s to destinations like Hollywood Casino and Rowe Ridge Winery & Vineyard. For mural hunters who love art, a tour of the Downtown Avenue of Murals on Minnesota Avenue is not to be missed.

I dined on crave-worthy Mexican food at El Toro Loco, which is known for street tacos and homemade margaritas. If there is one thing Kansas City does best, it’s barbecue. Take your place in line at Slap’s BBQ in the Strawberry Hill neighborhood.

View a complete itinerary here.

What a road trip, right? Every stop along Kansas I-70 from Junction City to Kansas has something for every traveler. Thinking of heading west instead? I’ve also got you covered! Take a spontaneous road trip to one of eight towns highlighted in an earlier blog post here.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: Ad Astra, barbecue, bbq, Bonner Springs, dining, Fort Riley, I-70, interstate, Junction City, Kansas, Kansas City, Lawrence, Leavenworth, Lecompton, Manhattan, Midwest, military, murals, museums, road trip, Shawnee, shopping, Sunflower State, tacos, Topeka, University of Kansas

Manhattan, Kansas: The Gateway to the Flint Hills and Fun

November 9, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

The more time I spend in Manhattan, the more I love it. The college town, home to Kansas State University, has what seems to be an endless list of things to do ranging from outdoor recreation to indoor dining.

There is a reason they refer to the town as “Manhappening,” a sensibility you come to understand quickly. I was thankful to be asked to return to town to explore places on my travel bucket list. But first, I needed to check into the newest hotel in the central business district, Aggieville.

LODGING

Courtyard by Marriott (715 N. 12th St.) opened during the summer of 2021 directly across from KSU’s campus. Nestled in the heart of Aggieville, it is the ideal place to stay if you’re hoping to walk to nearby shopping or dining. If you’re a Wildcat sports fan, it’s top-notch for accommodations when celebrating game day.

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.

Restaurants within a short walking distance of the hotel in “The Ville” that I’ve tried and wholeheartedly recommend include So Long Saloon, Taco Lucha, and Rock-a-Billy Bar & Deli.

BREAKFAST

FLIGHT CREW COFFEE

Wheels up! Flight Crew Coffee (423 Poyntz Ave.), in historic Manhattan, is ready to serve you. Opened this fall, the cafe is bustling with business. And for a good reason. The owner, Heather, has thought of every detail to ensure your “in-flight service” is seamless.

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 enjoyed a steaming chai tea with a Quiche Lorraine for breakfast. As they say, “Our Coffee Gives You Wings,” and after my first visit to Flight Crew Coffee, my mood is flying high. Add it to your morning itinerary before stepping out to do boutique shopping. View the cafe’s hours here.

DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN

Fueled by caffeine, I was ready to shop until my heart’s content in historic downtown Manhattan. Native limestone buildings and ornate brick buildings made a stroll along Poyntz Avenue a delight. You will discover shops carrying home furnishings, clothing, fine art, and more.

SHOPPING

ROOTED FAIR TRADE 

Wouldn’t you rather shop locally and buy handcrafted gifts from hardworking people? Rooted Fair Trade (327 Poyntz Ave.) sells products made by creative individuals from all over the world. Fiber art, jewelry, apparel, and artwork fill the space. Each item comes with the story of the person who made it. Fair-trade products focus on sustainability, fairness, and support workers.

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 here.

BLING GLAMOUR

I walked two doors down to discover a must-visit boutique. With clothes for every season and every woman, Bling Glamour (31 Poyntz Ave.) is your one-stop shop for on-trend apparel. When I learned that it was a women-owned business, I was ready to pull out my credit card.

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 here. The staff is friendly and happy to help.

FURNISH

Another new store on the downtown scene is Furnish (314 Poyntz Ave.), a home furnishings store that also offers in-store furniture consultation. One tour of the store and I was ready to hire their stylist to come to my home to redesign its interior.

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.

You’ll find it difficult to walk out of Furnish without a few gifts for yourself and new design ideas for your home. Plan your visit by viewing the store’s hours here.

SNW GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMES

Without a doubt, one of the coolest stores in downtown Manhattan, SNW Gallery & Custom Frames (328 Pontyz Ave) is worth checking out. The gallery is filled with breathtaking artwork by Kansas and regional artists, often including new artists’ work.

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.

If you can’t make it to the shop, you can preview the artwork and purchase it online here. Peruse their Facebook events page to learn about upcoming events, including artists’ talks.

FOOD & DRINK

TALLGRASS TAP HOUSE

On the same side of the street as the gallery, I spotted Tallgrass Tap House (320 Poyntz Ave.). I missed my chance to taste their craft beers during my last visit to Manhattan, so I ducked inside and sat at the bar. The brewpub is massive in size and draws a lunchtime crowd.

I like to taste a flight of beers during a first-time visit to a brewery. Tallgrass Tap House rotates the lineup of beers to accompany their flagship favorites. My flight came with four 5oz pours. I’d recommend trying a variety of styles but make sure to ask about their seasonals.

I appreciated Skeleton Crew, and loved the sample of Tropical Golden Ale. Visit during Happy Hour Monday-Friday from 3pm-6pm for discounts and enjoy $3 Tap House exclusives all day on Sundays. Sit on the rooftop deck during warm weather days for drinks with friends.

MANHATTAN BREWERY CO.

Stopping into Manhattan Brewery Co. (406 Poyntz Ave.) always promises a good time and a lot of beer drinking. There is just something about the friendly staff and the beers, which go down far too easily, that keeps me coming back.

Before my first beer was even finished, I was asked by Jake, the brewery’s sales and marketing guru, if I wanted to take a tour of the facility. My beer education began in the brewing area and ended in the basement cooler. I tasted the grain. I perused the rows of kegs. I peered into the tanks. What did I learn? As much as the owners joke around, they take brewing and selling craft beer seriously—the quality shows.

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.

For the owners of Manhattan Brewing Co., running a business is more than about slinging suds. Customer service is a priority.

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 Bourbon & Baker (313 Poyntz Ave), a restaurant and bar revered for its bourbon selection and gourmet small plates menu. It was an unforgettable experience.

I wholeheartedly recommend checking out both places when you visit Manhattan. View the brewery’s hours and the beers on tap here.

EL PATRON

I was overdue for lunch and knew just where I wanted to check out. Authentic tacos at El Patron (429 Poyntz Ave.) called me. It is known for serving street tacos using fresh ingredients and was ready to order.

With festive Mexican music playing in the background, I dove into soft shell tacos filled with beef and BACON. My taste buds went into overdrive. Now, I know what you’re thinking, but hold on. You haven’t lived if you haven’t tasted bacon in a street taco.

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 hours to plan your visit.

OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

TOP OF THE WORLD

An employee at the art gallery insisted that I needed to drive to the Top of the World. With a name like that, how could I not? I drove to the town’s overlook. Manhattan is considered the Gateway to the Flint Hills.

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.

JOHNNY KAW

A visit to Manhattan isn’t complete without driving to the Johnny Kaw statue for a photo opp. Located at City Park, the fictional character towers over visitors. He’s a legendary Kansas settler. A man who planted wheat invented sunflowers, and grew potatoes. Johnny controlled the weather and never feared tornados or clouds. Sure, he did. To read the complete story of the “Spirit of Progress,” Johnny Kaw, click here.

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.

KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

The gorgeous colors of the trees during fall dotted the Kansas State University campus, and I could hear the marching band rehearsing. I mazed my way through the campus’ limestone historic buildings, around sculptures, and statues, and I found the source of the sound.

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.

DINNER + DESSERT

KITE’S AGGIEVILLE DRAFT HOUSE

Most KSU college students and out-of-town visitors know the bar Kite’s in Aggieville. However, the venue recently upgraded a neighboring space as Kite’s Aggieville Draft House (617 N. 12th St.). Essentially an upscale sports bar, the restaurant offers refined menu fare like Gulf Coast Smoked Redfish Dip, Low Country Shrimp & Grits, and Southern Fried Hot Chicken Sandwich.

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 here.

VARSITY DONUTS

I don’t think I’ll ever make it out of Manhattan without ducking into Varsity Donuts (704 N. Manhattan). Their motto, “Donuts Make People Happy,” is true whether it’s after the sun rises over The Ville or during a late-night dash to the bakery.

But this visit was extra special. Surprisingly, most of the donuts were discounted because it was only minutes before closing – score! I walked back to my hotel with two donuts, well, one because I began to devour an iced cake donut before making it to my room. Learn about their late-night back alley food truck here.

OTHER PLACES WORTHY OF A VISIT

THE DUSTY BOOKSHELF

Grab a used book and a barista-brewed coffee and sit to enjoy a new read at The Dusty Bookshelf (700 N. Manhattan).  The place has a nearly perfect score out of over 200 Google reviews for a reason. As they say, “books may well be the only true magic.”

MIDWEST DREAM CAR COLLECTION

Imagine dozens of spotless classic cars and hot rods under one roof. Read about what to expect during a self-guided Midwest Dream Car Collection tour in a previous post I wrote here.

Oh, MANhattan! You’ve done it again. With more than enough to do in an overnight stay, I recommend planning for a well-spent trip to the college town. You’ll walk away with fond memories and plans to return. I hope to stop by Pool House, Sunset Zoo, and Goolsby’s the next time I’m in town.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: Aggieville, art, art gallery, bookstore, boutiques, brewery, campus, coffee shop, college, donuts, flint hills, furniture, Johnny Kaw, Kansas, Kansas State University, limestone, Little Apple, Manhattan, marching band, Marriott, Midwest, overlook, shopping, sports bar, Top of the World, Tuttle Creek, Wildcats

Experiencing the Best of Manhattan, Kansas in a Weekend

March 20, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 9 Comments

Disclosure: Visit Manhattan sponsored this post, however, all opinions and photographs are my own. 

To visit Manhattan, Kansas is to fall in love with it. The town, referred to as The Little Apple for its founder’s New England roots, offers something for everyone from exciting entertainment to eye-opening experiences. “Oh Man!” there is a lot to do in the town!

MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS

FLINT HILLS DISCOVERY CENTER

The Konza Prairie serves as the majestic gateway to Manhattan. The tallgrass prairie once covered over 170 million acres stretching from Canada through Texas and east to Ohio. Settlers discovered that the prairie soil, although difficult to til, was loved by bison. Today, visitors to the area can learn about the prairie and reconnect with it by visiting the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Located near the downtown district, the three-story education center’s primary focus is to teach visitors about the prairie’s important purpose and the conservation that keeps it a rolling landscape of prairie grasses and wildflowers today.

To fully appreciate the Flint Hills, you must buy a ticket to the “Tallgrass Prairie: Tides of Time” movie screening. It’s a completely immersive experience! The life-like simulations put you right in the heart of the prairie.  Your senses come alive as you learn about range burning, prairie regrowth, and the ecology of the Flint Hills.

After the film ends, I recommend trying the hands-on, interactive exhibits that teach you about geology, the cowboy lifestyle, and the importance of soil composition. You’ll have a new appreciation of the beautiful Konza Prairie today. An entire floor is dedicated to teaching children about the prairie and its animals. Plan a visit for the family here.

If you’re interested in planning a nature walk through the Konza Prairie, check out this easy 2.7-mile trail loop via All Trails.

MARIANA KISTLER BEACH MUSEUM OF ART

There is no better place to view renowned works of art than the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art located on the Kansas State University campus. The museum has more than 10,000 objects in its collection and often has extraordinary pieces on loan. You can expect to see permanent and rotating exhibitions including regional art and pieces from around the world. Admission is FREE!

With a focus on educating visitors of all ages about the visual arts, it makes perfect sense that its employees are mostly comprised of college students. Designed to help visitors “Think ANEW,” they have found innovative ways to bring the arts to visitors using the Smartify app, which identifies 2D and 3D artworks when one’s phone is directed at them. Tada! The app returns audio, text, and video interpretation about the piece. You have to try it!

During our visit to Manhattan, the museum remained closed to the public due to COVID-19 concerns. However, we were able to arrange a private tour to view the exhibit “Inside Out,” which showcased window installations of art from the permanent collection. Illuminated at twilight, every window of the museum functioned as public art with “yard” signage that detailed each piece.

The museum plans to reopen in Fall 2021. Are you interested in booking a free tour? Reserve one here or by calling 785-532-7718. In the meantime, you have the option of taking three virtual tours or taking advantage of their virtual art discussions and live stream conversations here. If you interested in becoming a friend of the museum after your visit, ask how to support an exhibit or one of their many educational programs. Parents rave about the children’s programs, so be sure to ask about those as well.

MIDWEST DREAM CAR COLLECTION

A gearhead’s dream come true, the Midwest Dream Car Collection is a must-stop in Manhattan. Ward and Brenda Morgan made it their mission to display an eclectic collection of cars from every decade ranging from classic roadsters to speed-defying muscle cars. To walk through the building is to take a journey through a visual timeline of cars. Visitors can gaze at the permanent collection featuring 65+ cars representing automotive history, a breathtaking experience. They even offer self-serve wine and beer to enjoy! In addition to the vehicles on display, the curator works diligently to have temporary exhibits on loan from car owners. Would you like to sit inside one of the stunning cars or trucks? Ask an employee to direct you to the cars that allow full visitor access.

I fell in love with a number of stunning cars, but two classic vehicles stole my attention. The curves and chrome of the navy blue Hudson made my heart pitter-patter and one look inside the Volkswagon Window Bus’s two-tone green interior and I was squealing with delight. Oh, the road trip I could take in that beauty!

Each car’s history tells a story about the designers, engineers, and decade that ultimately created it. I recommend taking part in one of their unique programs to take your appreciation for automobiles to the next level. A popular outdoor event, Cars & Coffee, takes place on the first Saturday of the month. But for those looking to dig deep into their knowledge of cars, the Morgan Lecture Series includes presentations that appeal to car aficionados. Kids also appreciate visiting the Midwest Dream Car Collection since there is an entertainment space dedicated to them as well as a monthly program, Kids Studio. Plan your visit and view hours here.

DINING & DRINKS

TACO LUCHA

This restaurant is a long-time favorite among locals and visitors! Nestled deep in the heart of Aggieville, Taco Lucha calls itself “a full sit down, cocktail driven, funky Aggieville taqueria.” From the moment you walk into the restaurant, you are greeted with colorful lights set against a dimly lit eclectic interior. Popular for serving Mexican street food with a twist (the portions are large!), everyone raves about the food. When at Taco Lucha, I strongly recommend ordering “The Nancy,” a beer cocktail made with Old Milwaukee beer and pineapple juice. Everyone orders it! They also make a mean michelada. We made fast friends at the bar while dining on spicy jalapeño poppers, stuffed tacos, and a mega burrito (ask about the “secret menu” options). I plan on trying the popular Raspberry Bean Dip on a return visit.

View the latest food specials and hours here.

SO LONG SALOON

Adjacent to Taco Lucha is their sister business, the So Long Saloon. Known for “lip-smacking good grub,” we enjoyed a sandwich and hearty salad while seated at the bar. The waitstaff was beyond accomodating and brought us drinks while we waited for seats to open up. This is the kind of restaurant where you instantly make friends when talking with the bartender. The cozy space includes an imported saloon wood bar. Voted to have the best Kansas beef hamburger in town, I’ll return to try it! Check out their hours and the latest “Manhappenings” here.

THE GUILTY BISCUIT

If you’re craving total indulgence food, make your way to The Guilty Biscuit. How about Fried Bologna & Chorizo stacked inside a buttery, homemade biscuit? Why not! Go for broke and order my selection, the Chicken Nugget ‘Po Boy made with creole maple mustard aioli, homemade pickles, caramelized onions, fried potato crisps, and lettuce. The first bite will send you to food heaven. The final bite puts you in a food coma. Make your way to their dine-in, pick-up location here.

AUNTIE MAE’S PARLOR

You haven’t had had the quintessential Aggieville experience unless you put a few beers or craft cocktails back at Auntie Mae’s Parlor. Originally the town’s speakeasy during the Prohibition era, this live music venue/dive bar is dripping with historical charm. While patrons enjoy access to a pool table and window bar upstairs, the place you want to be is downstairs. You might catch an up-and-coming band playing! On less rowdy nights, I recommend picking one of the many board games to enjoy with friends.

Many of the servers and bartenders are second-generation Auntie Mae’s employees. Once you visit, you’ll understand why they choose to follow in their family member’s footsteps. Get a closer look and check it out here.

POWERCAT SPORTS GRILL

A short walk from the Midwest Dream Car Collection sits the Powercat Sports Grill where locals meet to cheer on the Wildcats in good company. Referred to as the “watch party headquarters” on game day, it is the place to sit among fellow K-State fans. If not watching the big game, the outdoor patio features numerous yard games to enjoy. Be sure to ask for a menu! We saw several guests dining on their popular pizza pies and build-your-own burgers. Find your fun here.

MANHATTAN BREWING COMPANY

One of the youngest breweries in town, Manhattan Brewing Company entered the craft beer scene offering a long list of brews and housemade sangria. Their focus is on “quality beers, community spirit, and beer education” While sipping on their pilsner, The Townie, I chatted with employees who were very cordial. What I appreciated about the beer menu was that it had a variety of choices for every kind of craft beer drinker from sours to stouts and porters to pilsners. Learn more about downtown’s newest neighbor here.

VARSITY DONUTS

Serving “donuts that make people happy,” Varsity Donuts has been serving warm, fresh donuts to the masses since 2011. I arrived early hoping to find full cases of donuts and boy was I surprised at the large selection! The second-best aspect of stopping in Varsity Donuts is learning about the building’s historic charm. It still has the original flooring, counter, and barstools from its days as a soda fountain. Look up and you’ll discover pages of K-State yearbooks hanging overhead dating back to 1939. After devouring donuts, visitors have the option of renting vintage bikes to take a spin around Aggieville. See what you’re missing here.

ROCK-A-BELLY DELI

This Aggieville restaurant bar is one that most people say they’ve visited when in town. Only steps from the K-State campus, Rock-A-Belly Deli serves cold beer and delicious sandwiches for those joining up with friends for great conversation. We opted to sit on the back patio, but you should try to dine indoors if seats are available. You’ll be surrounded by kitschy retro decor that sets a vintage vibe. View its location and hours here.

AJ’S NY PIZZA

After working up an appetite touring downtown, I suggest ordering a pie from AJ’s NY Pizza. This pizza is some of the best I’ve ever tasted, and I live with someone from New York so I’ve eaten a lot of it!  The bartender at Manhattan Brewing Company recommended stopping here and one bite later, it made total sense. I can vouch for The 18th and 8th pizza made with homemade meatballs. Scrumptious.

This list of eateries and bars only scraps the surface of the many places there are to eat in Manhattan! Locals gave high praises to The Varsity Truck (order the “Charlie”), Vista Drive-In, and Bourbon & Baker — all places I plan to visit on my next visit to town.

LODGING

If you want to stay in complete comfort with amenities aplenty adjacent to Aggieville and campus, book a room at the Bluemont Hotel. I was fond of the spacious guestrooms (living room area included!), the pet-friendly accommodations, and the complimentary breakfast. The boutique hotel was designed to mimic the look and feel of the limestone buildings in the neighborhood. A great place to watch the game and enjoy a cocktail, the hotel touts that “Manhattan’s best voted bartender” crafts cocktails in the lounge. Schedule your stay here.

SHOPPING

Be sure to carve out some time to shop local while visiting Manhattan! The Dusty Bookshelf houses bestsellers and gently used books. I picked up a “Mystery Bag” of vintage cookbooks for $20 and scored a few gems. If you’re looking for quirky novelty items sure to make you laugh, visit Acme Gift. It’s one of those stores where you can find a cleverly written mug or a greeting card for someone guaranteed to make them smile. I picked up some Kansas-themed postcards from their sister store, Acme Local. Aggieville is full of shop small opportunities!

I’m so glad I returned to Manhattan to experience it like a local after a long hiatus. I’m planning a return trip during better weather conditions to explore the Konza Prairie, try disc golf, and perhaps some fishing at nearby Tuttle Creek Reservoir.

It’s easy to see why it was voted #2 in the 10 Best College Town by Livability in 2019. If given the opportunity to spend a weekend taking in the college town, you’ll find the locals to be incredibly welcoming and you’ll have a blast visiting all of the attractions and restaurants. Get a jump start planning your itinerary by checking out the Visit Manhattan website.

Are you already a fan of Manhattan? Tell me in the comments below which destinations I need to add to my return trip to The Little Apple!

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel, United States Tagged With: Aggieville, artwork, brewery, campus, cars, college, flint hills, K-State, Kansas, Konza, Manhattan, Midwest, museums, off-campus, prairie, Wildcats

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Hello! I'm Vanessa. Welcome to One Delightful Life, a blog created to add more delight to your life with delicious recipes, travel destinations, and lifestyle improvement ideas. Thanks for exploring my blog!

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