Are you in search of a secluded getaway for two? Perhaps you’re seeking a new date night adventure at a charming location in Kansas?
Use my guide to choose a fine dining restaurant, chocolate or floral shop, or charming lodging accommodations to create a romantic escape for couples.
Kansas Adventures: Romantic Escapes & Date Ideas
Indulge in a Fine Dining Experience for a Memorable Date
Weather Room – Topeka
People Magazine recognized the Weather Room (920 Kansas Avenue) as one of the top 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America for a reason, and the food is equally noteworthy.
Count on fine-dining American fare in a sophisticated setting before indulging in an after-dinner drink expertly prepared at the bar. I recommend the Espresso Martini.
Crooner’s Lounge – Fort Scott
There is no better place to enjoy a high-end dinner in Fort Scott than Crooner’s Lounge (117 S. Main). The lasagna (recommended to me by a couple of locals) was scrumptious for dinner. A large portion that two people could easily share came with a house salad and bread.
My server asked the kitchen to prepare cinnamon ice cream with a caramel drizzle minus the cake for my after-dinner treat. I ate every bite.
Georges French Bistro – Wichita
If you can’t fly to Paris for a romantic dinner, Georges French Bistro (4618 E. Central Avenue) is the next best thing.
Sit at a white linen table for two dining on Mussels & Frites as a starter before sharing bites of Duck á Lorange and Grand-Mère Chicken. The flaming dessert impresses any date.
Culinaria – Lawrence
Hands down, Culinaria (512 E. 9th) is worth its high ratings on Google. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, featuring farm-to-table ingredients, is served beautifully plated. Located inside a historic limestone building, the cozy restaurant delivers cozy, romantic vibes in a low-lit dining room at dinnertime.
YaYa’s Euro Bistro – Salina
When you’re in the mood for a chef-prepared meal using the freshest ingredients and exquisitely plated, you dine at YaYa’s EuroBistro (251 S. Santa Fe Avenue). My dinner experience started with complimentary bread and savory dipping sauce with a glass of house red wine.
Diners can select from a full dinner menu or Build Your Own Duet ($44) served with a Greek, Caesar, or spinach salad.
Union Street Social – Emporia
Union Street Social (225 E 6th Avenue) is the restaurant you always wished for, and now it’s here. The restaurant serves chef-prepared cuisine and specialty cocktails that rival any big city. A gas fireplace is a focal point flanked by jewel-tone velvet couches giving off a speakeasy vibe set to the backdrop of live jazz music.
Order the crab cakes for a shareable starter before enjoying a savory steak or pasta dinner. Ask for two forks to split a slice of homemade cheesecake.
Shop for Chocolates for Your Sweetheart
Russell Stover Factory Outlet – Abilene
At Russell Stover Factory Outlet (1993 Caramel Boulevard), the smell of chocolate permeates the air. Grab a cart and stock up on boxed chocolates, gourmet caramel apples, discounted holiday candy (in the back room!), and handmade fudge.
Annadore’s – Shawnee
An afternoon of shopping isn’t complete without stopping into Annedore’s Fine Chocolates (11007 Johnson Drive), and they offer free samples to tempt your tastebuds.
Known for their handmade selection of individual chocolates, I also love the extensive line of confections. Don’t leave the store without asking for a sample of the Milk Chocolate Covered Toffee.
Cocoa Dulce – Wichita
The smell of fine chocolate is inviting at Cocoa Dolce (3 Locations), where candy connoisseurs can select from various flavors from beneath a glass counter. Order a barista-prepared specialty coffee to pair with hand-selected chocolates or indulge in macarons or a cookie.
Sweet Granada – Emporia
Sweet Granada (03 Commercial Street) is a gift shop carrying 200 handmade chocolates and gourmet desserts.
Ask for Granada Goo & Avalanche, the store’s best-selling treat. You can select individual macaroons or chocolate truffles to create a to-go box.
Bijou Confectionary – Humboldt
Homemade macarons. Blocks of fudge. Soft cookies. Bulk candy. You’ll find all of it, plus gourmet chocolate, available at Bijou Confectionary (810 S. Bridge Street).
Use a scoop and bag up bulk candy priced at $10 per pound. My lemon macaroon was perfectly soft, and the no-bake cocoa cookie lasted only minutes.
Squishington’s Candy Shop – Lawrence
Stop into Squishington’s Candy Shop (646 Massachusetts) to shop imported chocolate, a candy shop that also specializes in stocking nostalgic retro candy. The staff is eager to help customers build a festive gift filled with a sweet tooth’s favorite candies.
Show Your Love With a Beautiful Floral Bouquet
The Flower Shoppe – Pratt
A short jaunt away from Main Street, I encourage you to visit The Flower Shoppe (201 E. 4th Street). Florist Lou Lynne Moss has been designing silk and fresh floral arrangements for happy customers for years.
Farmer and Florist – Marysville
Inside Farmer and Florist (914 Broadway Street), the shop smells of fresh floral arrangements and scented candles. Jarred Kansas-made products, stationary, and bath products adorn shelves amongst house plants. The shop delivers flowers locally and is known by shoppers for gift boxes featuring fresh-cut flowers.
Chicken Creek Co. – Shawnee
At Chicken Creek Co., you will always find grab-and-go floral bouquets made with “glamour blooms” in the reach-in cooler, and she accepts pre-orders before the holidays. Her prices are reasonable since the owner buys her flowers directly.
Everything’s A Bloomin’ – Oakley
Everything’s-a-Bloomin’ (204 Center Avenue) is stocked from floor to ceiling with home decor, apparel, and Kansas-made foodie gifts. The store also doubles as the town’s only flower shop. Since 2004, Dana’s shop has been the go-to place for visitors to enjoy an unhurried shopping experience.
Free State Flora – Wichita
Free State Flora (2910 E. Douglas Avenue) stock an abundance of fresh flowers and dried botanicals to create a bouquet for any personality. Owner Emily Jones specializes in beautifying weddings with her stunning floral displays.
Pair Up to Enjoy a Wine or Beer Flight
The Paisley Pear – Hays
A delightful space to relax and unwind after a day of exploring downtown Hays is Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market (1100 Main Street). Established in 2017, the wine bar has been serving beverage flights and wine slushies since 2017.
I chose a $12 wine flight of dry varieties from a long list of options. My favorite selection was a cabernet sauvignon from Skyfall Vineyards.
Radius Brewing Company – Emporia
Order a flight of award-winning craft beer (6, 5-ounce pours) at Radius Brewing Company (610 Merchant Street) to share while comparing flavor notes from ales, ranging from American Wheat Beer to Imperial Stout.
Wandering Vine at the Castle – Shawnee
Visit Wandering Vine at the Castle (12401 Johnson Drive) to enjoy a delicious chef-prepared meal and a wine flight. It’s owned by Kansas City residents who have enlisted the expertise of an executive chef and sommelier to celebrate food and drink.
One step inside the castle, and you are transported to an exceptionally beautiful setting.
15-25 Brew House – Clay Center
15-24 Brew House(420 Lincoln Avenue) is kicking out some of the area’s best beers. I ordered a four-pour beer flight to sample several brews.
Peel Out, comparable to Blue Moon, lived up to the hype. The two-time National Grand Champ Belgian Wit was my favorite, followed by 1 Eye Open Tropical IPA.
Liquid Art Winery and Estate – Manhattan
Cheers to good times exploring the beauty of Manhattan’s scenery at Liquid Art Winery and Estate (1745 Wildcat Creek Road). As your car ascends the gravel road and turns left, you’re greeted by expansive views of lush green vineyards.
After selecting four one-ounce pours for my dry wine flight, we exited to the partially sun-drenched patio. It’s a romantic setting, indeed.
Reserve a Room at an Exquisite Hotel for a Romantic Retreat
Cyrus Hotel – Topeka
Cyrus Hotel (920 S. Topeka Avenue) is a modern boutique hotel that recently opened in downtown Topeka. Luxury rooms, elegant restaurant and bar, and close proximity to top attractions make it a solid choice for lodging in the capital city.
Hip furnishings with brass finishes are the backdrop for well-designed spaces throughout the hotel. My corner room had floor-to-ceiling windows that provided stunning views of downtown, especially at night when the skyline was aglow.
Ambassador Hotel – Wichita
Located in the heart of downtown near entertainment venues, Ambassador Hotel at Wichita (104 S. Broadway Avenue) is within walking distance of historic neighborhoods Old Town and the Delano District.
The sleek interior design includes gold accents, deep purple hues, and the in-room amenities are luxurious. A speakeasy and fine dining restaurant are located on-site.
The Eldridge Hotel – Lawrence
Originally built in 1855 and called the Free State Hotel, The Eldridge Hotel (701 Massachusetts Street) was one of the town’s tallest, most beautiful buildings. Upon walking into its lobby, couples will feel transported back in time when luxury was a rarity.
Toast to romance with drinks at the on-site swanky bar, Jayhawker, before your chef-prepared dinner at Eldridge House Grille and All American Room.
Homewood by Hilton – Salina
Of all of the hotels that I’ve stayed at while on the road travel writing, Homewood Suites by Hilton Salina Downtown (155 E. Mulberry St.) is by far one of the best. The luxury, service, and proximity to the town’s attractions make it the foremost hotel to enjoy when visiting Salina.
The beautifully decorated hotel is designed in a modern style with references to the region from the lobby’s opulent, gas-powered fireplace to the private library with the finest furnishings.
Dröm Sött Inn – Lindsborg
Swedish-inspired Dröm Sött Inn (112 W. Lincoln Street) prioritizes guest comfort, and the inn is impeccably designed with a nod to a European aesthetic. In the evening, lounge in the Wine Shelter, sipping a complimentary glass of white wine together.
At breakfast, sit at a sun-drenched table savoring a thoughtfully prepared breakfast before playing a competitive game of chess in front of the lounge’s fireplace.
Gulfer Mansion – Emporia
Tucked away in a neighborhood within walking distance from campus sits Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast (612 W. 12th Ave.). The turn of the century 10,000 square foot home includes 12 bedrooms and is large enough to host events.
My accommodations in the German Room included private access to a newly remodeled bathroom with modern amenities.
Bonus Date Ideas: Other romance-inducing adventures include Discover Kansas’ Indie Bookstores, go mural hunting together amongst other Cool Places to Check out in Clay Center, or discover The Best Places to Sip & Savor in Olathe.
I hope this hand-curated list inspires you to make new memories with the one you love or to ask a special someone to accompany you on a date.
Relax in privacy. Enjoy a meal with the comforts of home. Sit on the patio. Experience the destination on your terms.
I stayed in the 
The plush accommodations surpassed anything I could have imagined. It was as if I was a posh member of royalty staying in a castle.
Reserve a suite at 
The tall white columns, brick architecture, and sheer size capture the attention of passersby. I was the first guest to check in on the day of my overnight stay, so I was able to peek inside each of the themed bedrooms and tour the home’s main level.
To reserve a room at Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast for a single night or overnight stay, visit the 
They prioritize guest comfort (I slept like a baby for the first time in weeks), and the inn is impeccably designed with a nod to a Norwegian aesthetic.
Do yourself a favor and 
The vacation rental is ideal for adult couples or a family who wants to unwind in comfortable accommodations. The owner felt inspired to bring life back to an old building, and she did an remarkable job maintaining its historic character while adding modern day amenities.
NOTE: This is an upstairs loft space, so guests must be comfortable carrying their bags up nearly 30 steps to the second floor. Shoes must be taken off and kept in the hallway prior to entry.
A restored 1908 country home turned 
A short drive from dining, shopping, and museums in Winterset, it was perfect for us. We watched the movie The Bridges Over Madison County at night while drinking champagne in a room surrounded by antiques and framed artwork.
The creak of the original wood floors.The sunset view from the porch. I loved our stay, as will you.
A blanket and velvety pillows gave the living room space a homey feel, which was delightful.
The bedroom included a pillowy-soft, queen-sized bed. Flanked by two reading lights and an end table, it was a great place to kick back and enjoy a book or admire nature from the sliding glass door view.
Although the house was sandwiched between two more significant properties, it feels secluded because of its deep front yard and leading walkway. The neighborhood is well-kept and safe. We never heard the sound of traffic or neighborhood activity.
Consider reserving the 
It’s easy to see why the home is listed as a Guest Favorite on the vacation rental website. One of only a few historic homes on a cul-de-sac, the two-story house is part of a duplex located only four blocks from downtown.
The full kitchen was equipped with anything I needed to cook a meal, plus the coffee station included several options of ground Starbucks coffee and tea. Because my itinerary included in-town restaurants, I used the spacious dining room table to plug in the laptop and get some work done.
We were pleased with the home’s comfortable amenities, including high-speed WiFi, laundry facilities (robes provided!), a walk-in shower with toiletries, and a full kitchen (breakfast pastries and French press coffee, anyone?).
Families will appreciate the home’s spaciousness and proximity to the park across the street. It’s a safe, lovely neighborhood. 
The interior was decorated in neutral tones. Restored hardwood floors creaked as I toured the accommodations. The open living room space easily included enough seating to accommodate several guests. Original chalkboards carved with the initials of rambunctious students flanked two sides of the room.
Two bedrooms with plush queen-sized beds with end tables and armoires welcomed me. Which one would I choose? The rooms were equally inviting. The full bathroom with a modern shower included the amenities of home plus a basket of toiletries.
Although The Schoolhouse Inn did not have a kitchen, I had access to a small refrigerator and freezer, Keurig coffeemaker, and microwave. The refrigerator was filled with bottled water and soda products. Complimentary drinks and snacks made the stay unexpectedly comfortable.
If you’re still unsure and would rather stay in a staffed hotel with character, consider also reading my blog post 
Historically known as the birthplace of female aviator Amelia Earhart, Atchison is a thriving town once home to Kanza Indians. Lewis & Clark explored the area in 1804. Later, it became a hub for steamboats, railroads, and manufacturing.
In 1870, the Atchison railroad served as a learning rail town in the state, but times changed. The last Santa Fe train left town in the early 1990s, but the museum’s inventory of authentic artifacts keeps history alive.
I started the self-guided tour by watching a computer-generated video of Amelia Earhart welcoming guests. The life-like pilot spoke in quotable phrases inspiring museum-goers to go after their dreams.
The Virtual Reality Flight experience was worth the added time and ticketed cost. Donning a headset and using an airplane’s yoke, I attempted Amelia’s historic 1932 flight across the Atlantic Ocean. I didn’t make it to Paris, but I did land the plane safely in a farmer’s field.
A gift to his wife, Evah, the mansion features 25 rooms filled with period antiques, including an 1893 World’s Fair bedroom set, elaborate stained glass windows, and high-quality furnishings.
Walking the rest of the home’s interior, you’ll discover a 200-year-old walking wheel winder used to spin yarn wool. The parlor’s upholstered, open-arm couches with dark wood and framed artwork showcase the luxury the Hetherington family enjoyed.
Outdoors, an elaborate driveway leads to a restored carriage house that begs to be photographed.
The Evah Cray Museum is more than another stunning home in Kansas. It’s a time capsule from the past when a family decided to settle in Atchison and live in the home for 80 years. Given their wealth, they could have chosen to reside anywhere. They chose Atchison.
My tour, led by the museum’s docent, was exceptional. Expect to pay a moderate admission if you go, and you’ll want to plan to spend at least an hour touring the home.
PRO TIP: Ask about the home’s small theater, where you can watch a film about Atchison architecture. Visit the gift shop in the carriage house.
The 14-room home served as a showroom to display the types of wood his business provided and the intricate ways it could be used. You’ll notice he combined oak, walnut, and mahogany into its design from floor to ceiling. He incorporated non-traditional wall materials like leather into the wallboard design.
The cafe is where locals meet to catch up about the latest happenings in town. Where travelers like me enjoy quiet time and peruse the internet using free Wi-FI. And where you can shop for gift items from kitchen towels to home decor.
You’ll find the comfortable cafe is just what you need to set the tone for the day. The menu features freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee drinks. Return mid-day for a Signature Cocktail like The Atchison Mule of Amelia’s Final Flight.
Between bites, I enjoyed learning about Ann’s heritage, which included the Lopez & Vallejo families’ tradition of serving the community delicious food and treating customers “like a part of the family.”
I took my friend’s advice and chose the carbonara prepared with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce over spaghetti. You can expect Italian pasta dishes, shareable plates (crab cakes, anyone?), and chef-inspired main dishes ranging from Steak Diane to Chicken Madeira on the menu.
PRO TIP: The restaurant does accept walk-in diners, but the restaurant is a popular place, so consider making a reservation.
You can count on our favorite bar and grill menu items. The list includes burgers and sandwiches to chicken wings and sirloin steaks.
I chatted with the manager, Steve, while enjoying a Chicken Club Salad. This restaurant location is one of two Willie’s Sports Pub restaurants in Kansas; the second is located in El Dorado.
Whether you are shopping for blue and white ginger jars, holiday decorations, or faux botanicals, you’ll find them at Presley Pierce Interiors. Every corner of the shop draws the eye, and the window displays inspire one’s creativity.
Shoppers so appreciate the store’s merchandise that the owner often hosts pop-up events off-site in people’s homes. To track new inventory arrivals and learn about upcoming events, follow the store’s 
PRO TIP: Collectors will appreciate Thorne’s House Hot Packs containing budget-friendly starter packs. View the store’s 
I was pleasantly surprised the store’s jewelry collection was reasonably priced for its quality. A decent inventory of hats, handbags, and shoes rounded out the accessory options.
To call the Backroad Atlas a store would be to underrepresent its size. It feels more like an antique mall. Staff members are eager to assist you if you’re hunting for a particular item.
Shopping for a unique item is all the more charming thanks to the store’s cat, who occasionally visits customers to say hello.
A physician and the front rooms once owned the house were his examination rooms. As the story goes, the doctor operated on a 6-year-old child, Sallie, before the anesthesia took effect, and she died in the house. Years later, renters reported mysterious happenings, and the man felt as if he was scratched.
You can tour or stay overnight in the home known for its paranormal activity. Items sometimes crash to the floor. Figures are seen in the windows. Doors slam in the night.
A highlight of my visit was standing in the shade of the Moon Tree, a Sycamore grown from a seed taken to the moon on Apollo 14. Underneath, the names of 17 astronauts who gave their lives are recognized in the memorial.
Manicured gardens and tree spaces dot the landscape. Find the gazebo to enjoy a shaded space of solitude. 
PRO TIP: Take note of Memory Lane inductees’ names paying homage to aviation greats such as the Wright Brothers and Eileen Collins.
Families with young kids will appreciate the state-of-the-art playground, then walk to nearby horseshoe pits to teach them how the game is played.
PRO TIP: On-street parking is available at no cost.
My visit was peaceful as I scanned the horizon made up of trees overlooking the Missouri River running from St. Joseph, Missouri, through Atchison, and toward Leavenworth, Kansas.
The dedicated marker remembers the Atchison man who was the victim of violence after accidentally injuring a white man while hunting.
PRO TIP: Earhart created her own fashion line, often wearing clothing from it. Learn more from 
PRO TIP: Visit the 
Final Thoughts
My accommodations in the German Room included private access to a newly remodeled bathroom with modern amenities. The queen bed was comfortable, and the room’s antique vanity and large closet provided ample space to store personal items.
In the morning, I enjoyed a complimentary breakfast of frittata, potatoes, berries, and hot coffee in the company of other early-morning risers in the formal dining room.
To reserve a room at Gufler Mansion Bed & Breakfast for a single night or overnight stay, visit the 
Popular with residents, including college students, it also serves as a retail space selling whimsical gifts. Shoppers in search of puzzles and uniquely crafted artwork are in luck.
PRO TIP: Before walking into the cafe space, stop at the 
Stacked burgers, Philly sandwiches, po’boys, and hot wings dominate the 
The restaurant was packed with diners, and seating at times was limited. Thankfully, they also offer outdoor patio seating, and you can order via drive-up or by phone for carry-out. An employee behind the counter busily blended shakes while others flipped burgers on a flat-top grill. The local hangout sign in the background read, “Come In. We Are Awesome.”
As I munched on my sandwich, I watched the movie “Popeye” on the dining room’s flatscreen TV. A wall of bottled sauces and locally made beef jerky sat for sale nearby. Just as I was about to finish my meal, the owner stopped by to visit.
I learned from him that The Reaper Burger Challenge attracts brave customers willing to endure the super spicy sandwich to make a name for themselves and win a free t-shirt. He confessed it was such a daunting task to finish the budget that not even he could finish the burger.
The hipster ambiance meets mid-century modern, with areas of the restaurant devoted to lounging or sipping on a cocktail while listening to live instrumental music. A gas fireplace is a focal point flanked by jewel-tone velvet couches giving off a speakeasy vibe.
Shared plates, appetizers, and the soup of the day rotate. I chose the Smoked Salmon Salad with perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs, and warm bacon dressing served over micro greens and spinach. Ordering dessert wasn’t up for debate. The owner baked cheesecake while I was there, so I ordered a peanut butter & chocolate cheesecake slice to go. HEAVEN. You can expect big-city style, eclectic design, and attentive service.
You can expect to find at least a half dozen craft beers on tap at any time. After ordering a flight (6, 5oz pours $12), I can attest to the quality of the selection. When it comes to craft beer, I typically like IPAs, but I fell hard for Chile Margarita Gose and Mojito Hard Seltzer. Each was uniquely flavored and refreshing.
After working up an appetite, I order the Chicken Bacon Avocado sandwich with a side of broccoli salad. Seated at the bar, 90s rock music played while I chatted off and on with the friendly bartenders. The food was freshly prepared by Chef Bays, and it showed in its flavor and presentation. Before leaving, I ordered a Meat Eater 12″ pizza and a homemade dill ranch for the road. It sounded too delicious to resist, and it met my expectations.
White and his family hosted friends and dignitaries (5 presidents visited) in the red Colorado sandstone home. The newsman declined Frank Lloyd Wright’s design drawings for the house, but upon touring, you’ll recognize some of his design style in its interior.
Six bedrooms and three full baths are furnished with many of the family’s prized possessions. Look for White’s infamous top hat next to the bed and the jaguar rug gifted to him by President Theodore Roosevelt. My favorite artifact is White’s original typewriter in the upstairs study.
Generations of the White family carried on the father’s legacy of running the 
PRO TIP: Admission to the home is reasonably priced at $6 for adults and $3 for children. Start your tour experience inside the Visitor’s Center. Watch the introductory film about White’s life and career and peruse the artifacts.
I appreciated the prairie dogs’ exhibit the most because they were interactive with one another. Two males played joyfully while the others zoomed to and from their underground holes in between lunchtime bites.
Other areas of the zoo facility include a children’s play area and Zoo Education Center. The park is open Sunday-Saturday, 10 am-4:30 pm.
During my park tour, I stumbled upon Monkey Island, which once was surrounded by a moat and housed rhesus monkeys. As you stroll across the park, you’ll find aquatic birds and turtles enjoying the four-acre lake
The well-established trees provided ample shade in different areas of the park. Picnic tables invite you to bring your lunch and enjoy the beautiful setting.
PRO TIP: Take a selfie with the bronze Peter Pan statue. The land was donated by the town’s most famous resident, William Allen White, and named after his daughter’s nickname.
Serious disc golfers travel from afar to compete in the PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Champions in late summer/early fall. The park includes two courses providing golfers a chance to showcase their athleticism.
The receptionist was happy to give me a casual tour of the warehouse which started in the employee lounge. If ever there was a place you would want to work as a disc golfer, it would be there. The employee kitchen included a kegerator, a smoothie station, and copious snack options. Visiting tournament golfers can watch the competition from a flatscreen TV in the lobby.
PRO TIP: The facility doesn’t include a retail store. However, you can purchase discs at the 
Cycling for long distances on Kansas gravel roads is a popular endurance sport in the Emporia area. 
The 
PRO TIP: Walk into the 
Today, it is a tasting room where guests can sip on moonshine while appreciating the building’s historical photographs framed on the walls. If you need help deciding what to order, ask for a sample sip (free) and then select from the distillery’s cocktail menu. The King ($7) made with peanut butter moonshine, banana liqueur, and chocolate bitters go down smooth.
PRO TIP: Take home a bottle of moonshine available for sale in the merchandise area of the tasting room.
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. Buffalo Bill Cody spent time there as a youth.
Additionally, the 
During my check-in, the front desk employee was kind and offered concierge services on the house. I was debating between a couple of restaurants for dinner and he helped make my decision an easy one.
My 
Walking the creaky wooden floors through one of several dining rooms, I eventually settled into a table. Tiffany lamps hung from the ceiling. Lace curtains flanked tall windows. Framed photographs of locomotives decorated the walls. It truly felt as if I was dining inside a train depot in the 1800s.
I ordered the Broken Yolk Sandwich made from eggs, bacon, and cheese from a menu listing hearty breakfast plates and a la carte items. As I looked at the plates of other guests, the portions were large. Satisfied with my choice, I knew I return to enjoy the Smoked Turkey Hash that I heard my server describing to another guest.
They serve breakfast and lunch from 7 am-1:30 pm every day of the week. Like most businesses in Leavenworth, the family-owned restaurant offers a military discount. Go for breakfast, return for lunch, and if you’re feeling like a cocktail, ask about the drink special on the “Prohibition Ends at Last” card displayed on your table. Plan your visit and view The Depot’s hours 
The lobby is a must-stop for history buffs who want to familiarize themselves with the town’s beginnings. A framed photograph of Colonel Henry Leavenworth hangs on the wall. He founded the town near the Missouri River and the military post known as Fort Leavenworth also known as “the post that opened the west.”
If you’re in search of a gift for yourself or your best friend, stop here to pick up unique seasonal decor items, jewelry, or candles. Not sure what to buy the sports fan in your life? Their shelves are also stocked with collegiate gear.
The husband and wife team is incredibly friendly and helpful. During my visit, I wasn’t finding what I was looking for right away. Thinking she didn’t carry the particular item, she returned from the back of the store with exactly the kitchen decor item I wanted. Not only that, she packaged it up so it would travel home with me without breaking.
The wines were tasty and worth trying, however, I appreciated the Mulled Wine the most for its spicy, seasonal flavor. All of the wines were unique, especially Hellfire, which is made with jalapeños providing surprising heat with each sip.
You can also take a ride on the carousel for the price of admission to the museum. Named one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, it has 24 horses, four chariots, and a Wurlitzer band organ donated by one of the town’s most famous residents and musicians, Melissa Etheridge.
Volunteers operate the museum and happily give guided tours to visitors. Parker started a career manufacturing amusement park rides including carousels. Also known as the “Carnival King,” he built his first carousel in 1892 and started the company two years later eventually moving it to Leavenworth. In fact, Leavenworth has produced more carousels than any other city in the world. He was a millionaire by age 30.
The museum’s upstairs gallery is a showroom of historical photographs, carousel horses, and advertisements from 1850s amusement parks. (Pro Tip: Ask to see the woodshop where the work is done to restore each carousel horse.)
I know you’ll smile ear-to-ear during your visit to the museum as well. The volunteers and I became instant friends. It’s a rewarding experience for the entire family.
Symbolic sculptures reference riverboats, railroads, and wagon escorts. Scan the information kiosks along the trail to listen to an audio tour guide. Keep in mind, the park serves as the entrance to the Three-Mile-Creek Trail ideal for walking and biking no matter your skill level.
My guided tour was led by a member of the Leavenworth County Historical Society. Unlike some of the restored mansions I’ve toured in Kansas, this one was different because several families had lived in the mansion at different times prior to it becoming a museum.
The home itself had underground multiple expansions over the years. In fact, it was initially a farmhouse for the Foster family in 1858. Over the years each family added to its square footage.
Each room is filled with elegant antiques from the Victorian era. Large mirrors, long curtains that pooled up on the floor, and a Victrola are symbolic of the Victorian style of the time. I was silenced by the beauty of the study’s handcrafted built-in bookshelves and lavish fireplace. (Pro Tip: Look for the framed map of Leavenworth on the wall of the study.)
Guided tours take about an hour. Open Tuesday-Saturday, admission is $6 and worth every penny. Touring the mansion allows you to virtually step back in time when the town’s most prominent residents spent their wealth on lavish homes and furnishings. Be sure to ask about the dog statue situated on the front lawn. It’s an entertaining story.
Keep in mind that the town hosts a Historic Homes Tour at Fort Leavenworth in April if you want to combine both tours in one visit to town. Plan your visit to the Carroll Mansion 
The ambiance was sophisticated without trying too hard. Shelves of wine bottles decorated the wall near the bar. Seating encompassed the entire bar while patrons in the dining room sat at windows seats facing historic downtown.
All of your go-to Italian entree classics are available on the menu. I was warned the portions were big, and the bartender wasn’t kidding. Maybe I shouldn’t have eaten so much of the herbed garlic bread. It was irresistible.
Sitting at the bar, I was privy to the hustle and bustle of the waitstaff. The phone rings constantly with to-go orders. Luigi’s 418 is a popular restaurant for a reason. The delicious food the courteous staff makes it one of the most highly recommended restaurants in town.
