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Best Day Trip Destinations in Newton, Kansas

October 11, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Newton Convention & Visitors Bureau sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

When people ask me about my favorite Kansas towns, Newton tops the list. It’s less than a 30-minute drive from Wichita and offers a long list of entertaining attractions, dining options, and locally-owned shops that make for a nice day trip. Recently, I traveled via I-135 N to Newton ready to tackle a fun itinerary starting with breakfast and ending with exploring the area’s nature trails.

NORM’S COFFEE BAR

Having heard that Norm’s Coffee Bar (613 N. Main St.) was known for their menu of delicious waffle dishes, I knew I was in for a treat. It turns out breakfast dreams do come true. I chose “The One With the White Sauce” from a shortlist of options. The waffle arrived pillowy soft and warm drizzled with vanilla custard and raspberry sauce. One bite and I was in heaven. A large portion, I cleared my plate.

While I love to indulge in sweet waffles, I think I’ll try a savory waffle during my return visit like one made with cornbread topped with chili and cheese aka “Ring of Fire.” The waffle options are everchanging, but you’re guaranteed to find sweet and savory options with creative toppings.

But I needed a sidekick to go with my breakfast waffles. I ordered a Dirty Chai Tea Latté. It arrived to my table in a mug so large that I had to use two hands just to sip my tea. Absolutely delicious. Norm’s serves espresso, brewed coffees, and blended drinks of all kinds.

The coffee bar is also well-liked by locals. You will always find a few people in line or waiting for their to-go coffee orders. The service is swift, so you never wait long. But even if you had to wait, it’s a comfortable space to enjoy. On the day of my visit, I listened to the sounds of John Mayer playing from the speakers while watching the barista hard at work steaming milk and pouring latté art in each cup.

When in Newton, stop into Norm’s Coffee Bar. The cafe is nestled in the heart of Main Street making it the best stop for breakfast with easy access to downtown shopping. Don’t forget to purchase a few to-go baked goods from the illuminated case before you head out for the day. Two hour free parking is available on Main Street.

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

Newton’s historic downtown district is a walkable area, so leave the car parked and let the exploration begin. Do you need a little retail therapy? A number of stores along Main Street are tried and true gems. During my recent visit, I had the pleasure of shopping a few stores that were new to me, which I highly recommend, as well as some old favorites.

Main Street is a National Historic District. Look closely at the architectural details inside and outside each building.
ANDERSON’S BOOK & OFFICE SUPPLY

The front windows of Anderson’s Book & Office Supply (627 N. Main St.) are filled with children’s games and collegiate sports memorabilia. But don’t let that fool you. In business since 1892, the store also sells a wide range of office supplies, greeting cards, calendars, and gifts. Once a JCPenney store (look for the “Golden Rule” tiled entrance), the creaky wood floors and towering shelves of retail take you back to an earlier time.

The store opened more than 125 years ago and sold newspapers to train passengers. If they were hungry, it was the go-to place to buy snacks.

Phil Anderson III was busily rearranging items in the front window when I arrived. The fourth of five generations of Andersons to run the store, Phil has worked hard to keep the store humming for 64 years. The store’s history is rich in story. The founder’s mother once served pies and cakes to hungry railroaders as they passed through Newton. Today, shoppers are greeted with the same warm smile and “How can I help you?” Just as the store’s entrance reads, you can expect to be treated just as they would want to be treated with kindness.

Anderson’s is the place to go if you need a fresh stack of legal pads, to have your typewriter repaired, or if you need basic mailing supplies. In search of Scotch™ tape or a printer cartridge? Tell Phil what you need and he’ll happily direct you to it. I never leave Anderson’s without a new ink pen or stationary, and I always leave Anderson’s having made a new memory.

Phil is the kind of guy who is eager to talk about Wichita State or University of Kansas sports, colleges we both attended. We bond over a shared love of basketball, and we chat about the history of the story and the importance of shopping local. It’s always a pleasure to spend time in Anderson’s whether I’m in search of new office supplies or just talking with Phil. Even if you don’t need office supplies or a gift for someone, open the door to Anderson’s and step inside. You’ll be better for it.

MAIN STREET CO. & KITCHEN CORNER

Main Street Co. & Kitchen Corner (611 N. Main St.) is the must-visit boutique for shoppers in search of the latest fashions, home decor, and kitchen essentials. Once neighboring stores, Main Street Co. and Kitchen Corner combined forces to provide a new and improved retail store. Now, the 6,000 square foot store is stocked full with anything and everything shoppers could want.

It is my go-to boutique when I’m hunting down a new seasonal candle or wax melt. But I never leave with just a few items. The shelves of jams and jellies, coasters and collectibles, and shoes and accessories call to me. My shopping bag is always full of irresistible goodies, which is often filled with gifts for others. The temptation to shop there has only grown stronger. They now carry a large selection of women’s apparel including an entire jean wall.

Without a doubt, you will find something that you can’t live without at Main Street Co. & Kitchen Corner. Homemade fudge? Yes, please! Free sample of gourmet food? Check the back counter! I’m still kicking myself for not buying the popcorn bowls pictured below. They are perfect for movie nights at home or game day parties, don’t you think?

Since bringing both stores under one roof, business is booming. They have a loyal following of shoppers who purchase items both in person and online. If you can’t make it to the shop, Main Street Co. & Kitchen Corner makes it easy to score sales online via their Facebook live events and mobile app. To find out about upcoming shopping events, visit this page.

BOOK REVIEWS

I hit the jackpot when I walked into Book ReViews (707 N. Main St.) in downtown Newton and so will you. The store carries an extensive collection of used and vintage books all of which are donated to the non-profit business. All of the Book ReView’s proceeds support local charities – now that’s shopping you can feel good about.

The store is organized and managed by a small group of volunteers who are eager to help you find your next read. Open six days a week, book lovers can peruse well-stocked shelves for every genre from non-fiction to true romance. They make searching out a new book easy, too. The volunteer workers have painstakingly categorized the books and created thoughtful displays.

During my visit, I noticed the front table was devoted to children’s books about Halloween, a display I imagine is updated based on the season. Nearby, I found tightly stocked bookcases of the classics adjacent from a good size selection of poetry books. What genre of books do you tend to purchase? Book ReViews most likely carries it, plus the book you didn’t know you needed.

Bonus tip! Look for a small section of “free books” across from the register. Consider yourself warned. If you bring a tower of books to the register, you need to pay with cash or check. Credit cards are not accepted. Review the store’s hours and plan your visit here.

PRAIRY MARKET & DELI

The moment you walk inside Prairy Market & Deli (601 N. Main St.) you realize that you’ve come to the right place. Having shopped there many times, I can tell you first-hand that it is by far one of the largest natural foods stores that I’ve seen in Kansas and it’s one of the best.

The store’s shelves are neatly stocked with rows of specialty foods. The refrigerator cases keep locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce chilled. The smoothie bar is ready to serve customers.

You’ll discover a wide variety of locally-made goods at Prairy. They pride themselves on supporting local farmers, makers, and creators. Although a majority of their goods come from the surrounding area or are made on-site, they’ll travel as far as Olathe to pick up inventory. It’s a concept that I appreciate.

They offer options for buying in bulk in multiple stations around the store. I recommend you bring your own container to purchase grains and spices. Top off a growler with fresh Tea-biotics kombucha. Fill a plastic jug with liquid soap. In search of whole bean coffee? You’re in luck! They roast their own beans.

Actually, they make many of the specialty food products on their shelves in-house. Prairy hand fills bags of bite-size snacks (ask about the pfeffernüsse tiny spice cookies a tradition in German Mennonite households) as well as granola and trail mix. They make it all. Check the aisles for hand-poured candles in fragrances like Rawhide, Sunflower, and Rolling Hills reminiscent of the scents Kansans would recognize.

What did I take home? The most delicious ice cream that I’ve tasted in a long time. Made in Newton, Salted Creamery Ice Cream comes in a variety of flavors sold by the pint. I took home Caramel Butter Pecan and Key Lime Pie – both selections came highly recommended by the store’s staff. You’ll find them inside the reach-in freezer located near the dining area of the store.

FAITH & LIFE BOOKSTORE

A local told me about a bookstore that I hadn’t shopped at yet, Faith & Life (606 N. Main St.). It was there that I met some of Newton’s nicest residents. After a warm greeting, I moseyed around the store admiring their large selection of books, Bibles, greeting cards, accessories, and gift items. A well-stocked store, it is one of the last remaining faith-based bookstores like it in Kansas.

Open since 2015, the store is operated as a non-profit with the hope of connecting people with the resources they need. Within moments of my visit, I spotted books and supplies for every age. Parents with children in tow will appreciate the kids’ section devoted to their reading needs. Seeking a journal for devotionals or an inspirational book of quotes? Faith & Life carries a large inventory of gifts, which are also available to purchase via their website for online shopping here. Do you follow a particular author’s work? Plan your visit around the store’s book signing events.

BACK ALLEY PIZZA

Who’s hungry for lunch? Back Alley Pizza (125 W. 6th St.) has everything I look for in a pizzeria. Delicious food. Fun atmosphere. Friendly employees. Located one block off of Main Street, the restaurant is a must-stop when in Newton. Not only does it have a spacious patio for alfresco dining, but the interior setting is uber cool. It was as if I had stepped inside a retro garage complete with road signs, concrete floors, and exposed brick walls.

Known for their delicious wood-fired pizza, I asked an employee and a local waiting in line which one of the signature pies I should order. It was a tough choice since so many of them sounded good, but I chose the Graffiti, a 1o” pizza topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, onion, peppers, and black olives. The crust was thin with a crunchy, thick rim. Each slice gave way to a stringy mozzarella cheese for the ultimate cheese pull.

Having arrived just after the restaurant opened for lunch, I sat back and watched as the place filled up to almost capacity with locals. The menu brings them back. Back Alley Pizza sells pizzas (no individuals slices!), heaping salads, toasted subs, and cannolis for dessert. They keep the menu choices simple allowing diners to choose from 11 signature pizzas or to customize their own. The portions are large considering the price – a great value lunch or dinner option. Thirsty? Back Alley Pizza has a self-serve beverage station complete with soda products, but the popular choice is fresh-brewed ice tea served sweetened or unsweetened.

The atmosphere is relaxed. Diners casually chat about the day’s happenings as the staff pulls one pizza after another from the wood-fired oven. A large TV can be seen from anywhere in the dining room making it a great place to catch game highlights while enjoying a meal with friends. But it’s also an ideal place to dine with family. I saw a number of parents and kids excitedly sharing a pizza. It’s the place in town where everyone loves to dine. When will you visit? View the restaurant’s hours and menu here.

MURAL HUNTING & PUBLIC ART

Speaking of back alleys, they are some of the best places to find street art. Newton is home to several public art displays created by talented artists. Newton Murals and Arts Project is adding to the collection and restoring one of the town’s biggest murals, “The Imagineers” at 304 N. Main. Through community support, they’ve been able to make significant progress. Only steps from my lunch spot, I noticed a brightly colored mural resembling a patchwork quilt on the back side of a building at 605 N. Main.

Within walking distance of the downtown district, my eyes spotted a weathered mural. Located at 119 W. 5th St., it was painted on a metal surface over 20 years ago. Simple yet patriotic, it’s worthy of a visit.

One of the newest murals in town is at 817 N. Main in honor of the town’s police, fire, and EMS workers. Other symbolic images are represented in the display including a train, sunflowers, wheat, and the American flag.

Of course, a trip to Newton wouldn’t be complete without taking a photo in front of the massive flower mural. What began as an oversized stretch of botanicals and clouds evolved into the brightly colored image seen below. To find the 526 Mural, visit the 100 block of E 6th Street. You can’t miss it.

Lastly, you must see Blue Sky Sculpture in person. It’s one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art, a project completed by multiple artists for Centennial Park. The pubic artwork mimics the Kansas sky. I recommend taking a few minutes to watch the clouds travel past the sculpture. It’s breathtaking.

HISTORIC WALKING & DRIVING TOUR

The well-kept business district is home to beautifully restored buildings from an earlier time. The town’s buildings date back to 1884, and after Newton’s financial boom from 1886-1887, multiple businesses sprung up in the area.

I used the Historic Newton Downtown Walking Tour guide to help me locate significant buildings. Soon, I located the town’s first well, which was dug to provide drinking water to residents in 1871. It was considered the “best water for several years thereafter.” Today, a flowing fountain marks the general location of the well that sits just beyond the doors of the train station at Depot Park.

Military Park (Broadway St. between Oak and Pine Streets) is the oldest park in town. Established in 1871, it is the site of Soldier’s Monument, a 10-inch cannon, and an 1880s steam locomotive. It’s not far from the center of downtown.

While multiple train depots have existed in Newton since the town’s inception, today’s operational depot (400 N. Main) is a distinct destination worthy of a visit. The active station serves BNSF’s tracks and Amtrak’s Southwest Chief Train. Railroad heritage is well-known in Newton and its symbol appears on the town’s flag because as they say, they’ve been “waiting on trains since 1872.”

WARKENTIN HOUSE

The Warkentin House is a historic mansion (211 E. 1st St.) built in 1887 by the town’s wealthiest businessman, Bernhard Warkentin. He came to the United States from Ukraine and eventually settled in Newton. He purchased the town’s mill and renamed it Newton Milling and Elevator Company. His influence on the town is massive.

He was instrumental in the Mennonite migration to the area and he single-handedly brought Turkey Red hard winter wheat to the area and made it a staple crop. Have you heard Kansas referred to as the “Breadbasket of the World?” We can thank Warkentin for helping to make that happen.

Warkentin and his wife, Wilhelmina, and their two children moved into the Queen Ann-Style mansion in 1888. Now, it is a museum that offers tours by appointment January-March and on weekends depending on the time of year.

The architecture and its furnishings (80% are original to the home) are exquisite. The family lived in a home surrounding by the best money could buy including Italian tiled fireplaces, fine woodwork, stained glass and etched windows, and crystal chandeliers.

The Warkentin’s spared no expense when designing their home down to the smallest details. I was enamored by the door’s metal finishes, the changing wood floors from room to room, the expansive size of the bedrooms, and the imported furnishings. The kitchen tells the story of what it must have been like to work as a servant for the family in close quarters to a formal dining room – and wait until you see the butler’s pantry! Wilhelmina wanted the best china and linens. Her taste for luxury is reflected throughout the home.

Visiting the home allows everyday people to get a glimpse of what luxury living looked like during a time when rural Kansas was just beginning to prosper. I recommend taking a moment to enjoy the view from the home’s wrap-around porch. To view the museums hours and plan a visit, visit their Facebook page here.

KAUFFMAN MUSEUM

A museum with award-winning exhibitions awaits your visit in North Newton. Kauffman Museum (2801 N. Main St.) sits just off of Interstate 135 across from Bethel College’s campus. Open to the public, its permanent exhibit “Of Land and People” helps visitors understand the undercurrent of faith, nature, and immigration that established the town.

You’ll appreciate the extensive collection of artifacts that tell the story of the Mennonite experience of the Central Plains. From living in a handcrafted sod house to building well-made furniture, it’s a long history of hard work and perseverance.

“Immigrant People” is an exhibit that documents how Mennonites packed their belongings and traveled by rail or wagon and eventually by steam-powered ships to America. Later as homesteaders, they took root in the open prairie in what is now Newton. While some had money, most were poor yet hopeful for the future. The museum also includes a large collection of Native American clothing and belongings.

I appreciated the Historic Farmstead and Gardens, which are open to tour with a museum employee. The outdoor buildings were built in 1875 and 1886 and were moved to their current site. I suggest trying the hands-on experiences in the barn. Take a moment to shuck corn using old-fashioned machinery or compare your height to the silhouette of a draft horse. Are you interested in agriculture? The museum’s garden is tended by volunteers. The produce is for sale when in season at the gift shop.

Fantastic traveling exhibitions rotate in the museum’s gallery every three to six months. During my visit, there was a special exhibit about advertising and the tobacco industry on display, “Vapes: Marketing and Addiction.”

Out-of-town visitors and residents who want to learn more about the town’s history and the Kansas Mennonite community will appreciate the 45,000 artifacts and wall displays. A  section devoted to the museum’s namesake, Charles J. Kauffman, showcases his love of nature and taxidermy. The collection includes birds, wild animals, and Kansas native species.

To plan a trip to Kaufmann Museum and learn more about their current and upcoming exhibits, visit their website. It’s a museum worth adding to your day trip itinerary.

TRAILS

Another bonus of visiting Newton is taking advantage of their nature trails system. Eight sites along North Newton’s trails make it possible for visitors to learn about prairie life and the people who resided in the area. If you’re already visiting the Kauffman Museum, take a walk outside the building through the wooded tree line to find one of the markers “The Story of Land and People.”

The popular Sand Creek Trail (600 block of W. 5th St.) is a wood chip path appropriate for all ages. Nearly six miles in length, it leads hikers and bikers from its trailhead in North Newton to First Street at Athletic Park. It is sometimes referred to as the “Trail Between Two Cities.” To view all of the trails in the area, visit this All Trails link.

What a town! I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my love of Newton with you. It’s a charming town within a short drive from Wichita that offers visitors plenty to do and see. Newton’s walkable downtown district, local restaurants, and nearby attractions make it a fantastic option for day-trippers in search of adventure.

Have you traveled to the area already? I’d love to hear about the sites you added to your trip in the comments below.

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: Bethel College, bookstore, boutiques, day trip, deli, historical walk, Kansas, Kauffman, kitchen, mansion, market, Mennonite, murals, museum, Newton, office, pizza, public art, shopping, small town, street art, trails, walking, Wichita

The People and Places that Make Republic County, Kansas a Must-Visit Destination

July 22, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Republic County Economic Development sponsored this post, however, all opinions are my own. Nearly all of the photos were taken by me. 

There is so much to love about rural Kansas.

If you’ve driven from Wichita to Omaha, you’ve passed through Republic County sitting just below the Nebraska border in North Central Kansas. After a recent visit to the area, I assure you that Republic County is a must-visit destination that wins you over quickly with its boutique shops, Main Street charm, and delicious dining options.

They say the soul of a place is what it is because of its people. The residents of Republic County are salt of the Earth people who care about one another and who want to keep improving their communities. They greet visitors with open arms and are eager to tell you about the many great things that make their county a place many would like to call home. In fact, I heard more than once during my visit to area businesses that many of the county’s residents are returning to the area to raise their families. They’re drawn to a quieter way of living, an ideal place to raise a family. I understood the sentiment after spending two days visiting the county’s best destinations.

BELLEVILLE, KS “At the Crossroads of America”

Shopping + Dining

My first stop upon arriving in Belleville, Kansas was The Feathered Nest (1914 M. Street), a store that a friend of mine raved about as soon as she heard I was traveling to the area. It’s not a store that many discover by happenchance, but rather one that lives up to its reputation. A massive home interiors/decor shop with a coffee lounge, it is a must-visit store. As soon as I walked in, I knew my wallet was in trouble. I wanted to bring home the fancy pillows, framed prints, and towering candle holders. They also sell jars of Kansas-made gourmet foods and chef’s tools to complete one’s kitchen.

The store manager, Lynette, sat down with me to chat about the store in the coffee lounge. I sipped on a specialty coffee, The Feathered Frenzy, and enjoyed a scratch-made scone from the espresso bar. As we talked, I noticed several locals sitting together in small groups talking over coffee. Immediately, I could feel a real sense of community.

I learned that the store has a decades-long history of outfitting homes with furnishings and gift items. The Feathered Nest provides in-home design services for those looking to upgrade their living spaces from the flooring to the textiles. It’s far more than a standard small-town furniture story. They also provide free consultations to homeowners who want to meet with the designers both at home or in the store.

Aside from home design items, they sell apparel, jewelry, and baby + preteen gift items. It’s next to impossible not to find a gift for someone in The Feathered Nest. Lynette and her team take the time to listen to your needs and direct you to the perfect purchase for someone. If you’re not able to shop in-store, you can also buy many of the retail items online here.

A HISTORIC TOUR

Later, I was taken on a walking tour of Belleville‘s Courthouse Square to view the architectural details and relive its early years. Belleville Chamber & Main Street Director, Waylon, pointed out each building’s details to me. We walked and talked as music played over the square’s speaker system.

Officially a town in 1869, buildings surround the art deco county courthouse, which was built after the original building burned down. Actually, several of the original wood-framed buildings burned down, so they were replaced with brick and stone construction. During our tour, I admired the Spanish-style design details that adorned many of the buildings. Tall, arched windows dotted the commercial architecture. Inside, original tin ceilings and hardwood floors were a glimpse into the past. As we continued walking, I spotted historic photos on the side of planters and signage detailing the early days of Belleville. Today, many of the buildings house specialty stores and renovated office space. However, it was a particular towering building that caught my eye.

The Blair Theater (1310 19th St.) opened in 1928 when talking pictures came to town. Its facade is meticulously restored and reminiscent of an earlier time. After admiring its exterior beauty, we walked inside to see that its woodwork and ornate finishes. Now known as The Blair Center for the Arts, it is still in operation today. During my visit, I saw school children in small groups awaiting their turn to head into the single movie theater to watch a free summer movie. The smell of fresh popcorn permeated the air. It is definitely a must-experience attraction in Belleville. To view upcoming showtimes, visit here.

SHOPPING

After my tour, I was ready to get back to shopping. I stopped inside Sew Country (1834 M. St.), a quilter’s paradise. Two friendly employees greeted me and took me around the store. I quickly discovered that Sew County is the place to source the latest fabric patterns and supplies for quilters planning a project. In business for almost three decades, they carry over 6,000 bolts of fabric (check out their gallery). Quilters come from miles around to peruse their inventory of seasonal prints and notions (snaps, elastics, threads). If you’re interested in finding out more about taking a DIY class or asking them to ship quilting supplies to you, visit their Facebook page.

My next stop led me into David’s Creations (1329 19th St.) the town’s full-service florist. I was greeted by David who quickly made me feel right at home. It wasn’t long before I was snacking on a sample of Kansas-made preserves and chatting about flowers. The store was celebrating its first anniversary and it was a day of celebration. David’s Creations provides fresh and silk floral arrangements for pick-up or delivery up to a 20-mile radius. With years of experience artfully arranging flowers for special occasions, David is well-versed in botanicals.

If you’re in search of a gift for a loved one, the store is stocked with boxed candy, home decor, and statuary. Consider David’s Creations your one-stop shop for all things beautiful in Belleville. View a gallery of arrangements for ideas and check the store hours on the Facebook page.

DINING

Just as I was beginning to get hungry for lunch, I spotted Wood Shop Pizza (1317 18th St.) across the way. As I approached, I saw a window sign that read, “This is a bad place for a diet.” I had come to the right place.

Inside, I saw locals sitting at beautifully crafted wood tables happily dining on wood-fired pizza and sub sandwiches. The pizzeria is owned by woodworkers, hence the name, so it made perfect sense that the interior had an industrial vibe from the authentic wood floors to the beam exposed ceiling.

I chose the lunch special, the Italian Pizza, served on thin crust – it was a delicious choice. I loved the tanginess of the Italian dressing combined with the salami, pepperoncini,  and stretchy cheese. Country music played in the background as enjoyed my pizza. I could see hilarious sayings written on various wall signs from my booth seat. (Insider Tip: If you get the chance to dine at Wood Shop Pizza, make your way down the hallway to the bathroom where you’ll discover more hilarity written on the walls.)

ATTRACTIONS

Now it was time to drive to Kansas High Banks Hall of Fame Auto Racing Museum (1204 H. St.) – the mecca for all things midget car racing since 2015. Anyone who races or loves racing knows that Belleville is the home of the world’s fastest half-mile dirt track (aka “Big Belleville”). What began as a flat horse track eventually became a popular race track in 1910. The museum gives visitors an up-close look at two rooms stocked with pristine midget cars and a few stock and modified cars.

Record-holding racer, Don, gave me a tour of the museum. It was built to capture the history of racing personalities, house memorabilia, and display race cars. More or less unregulated, midgets cars have been driven at Belleville by some of the best drivers including many of today’s Nascar celebrities from Kasey Kahne to Jeff Gordan. The track is also home to sprint car racing and touts 305 national winners.

Opened in 2015, the museum welcomes race fans from all over the world who want to learn more about the track the put Belleville on the map. I encourage you to visit Don and his friends who work at the Hall of Fame museum to fully appreciate the legacy of Belleville’s racing community. Don’t forget to sign the guest book.

So, it only made sense that I needed to visit Belleville High Banks (608 O. St.), the historic race track built in 1932. City councilman, James Doyle, met me there to give me an inside look. We were standing on the second oldest continuously operating event track, the same track where racing record-holders make a name for themselves.

He told me that the Belleville Midget Nationals started at the track in 1978, an event that still fills the stands today. Later, the Belleville 305 Spring Nationals was born Thus, High Banks has an inner track and an outer track with an incredibly steep, 23-degree bank. Race fans can sit in the stands only feet from the track to cheer on their favorite driver during event races. I’m told it’s quite a show as midget cars race at up to 141 mph and sprint cars zoom along 80′ width of track at speeds up to 200 mph.

Is it something you’d like to experience? Get directions to the track here. Not able to make it to the track for a visit? You can view it on a live camera feed here.

COURTLAND, KS “Welcomes You”

A 20-minute drive from Belleville, the charming town of Courtland was my next stop. I drove down a road surrounded on both sides by 8′ tall cornfields.

LODGING

I checked into the Heartland Gamebirds Lodge (402 Main St.) for an overnight stay. Once one of the town’s bustling banks, today the building is restored into a beautiful lodging facility for visitors to relax after a day of guided pheasant hunting. I was impressed by the brand new accommodations and modern finishes. If I were a hunter or part of a group spending time in Courtland, this is where I’d want to stay.

The two-story building includes rooms with comfortable bunk beds, a common living space with an open kitchen, and two full bathrooms with laundry facilities. Downstairs, I found two authentic bank vaults and a foray with oversized windows flooding the space with sunlight.

After dropping my bags, I felt perfectly relaxed as I sipped on Kansas-made coffee from a comfy leather couch while admiring the brick exposed walls and original arched windows. From the window view, I spotted a building down below that I had to check out.

SHOPPING

Soul Sisters Ceramics (328 Main St) is a unique boutique inside what was an old gas station. The paint your own pottery studio also sells hand-selected home decor and clothing.

Shanna, the store’s owner, was one of the sweetest people I met during my stay in Courtland. It turns out we graduated from the same university with the same degree. As we chatted about her love of all things creative, she explained that the pottery studio is open to walk-ins, private parties, and serves as an event space. I watched as she displayed delicate necklaces with pendants made from Kansas clay onto a wall display. I noted the much of the inventory from candles to the modern farmhouse-style decor was made in the Sunflower State.

Visitors to the historic building will love what Shanna has done with it. She regularly rotates new retail inventory making shopping a delight. I’m still kicking myself for not buying the necklace I had my eye on. Luckily, I can order many of the store’s items online.

As you leave with your shopping bag in hand, I recommend taking a peek at the “hidden” mural painted on the outside of the building. It’s a great place to take a photo during your time in Courtland.

Soon, I found myself walking down to another shopping destination, AnTeaQues (415 Main St.). Part antique store/part restaurant, the AnTeaQues is divided into two sections. Shoppers will appreciate hunting for antique finds ranging from rusty tools to old books. If you see something you’re interested in, ask the owner for assistance. On the other side of the store, I spotted red and white checkered tablecloths where locals gather for breakfast and lunch. Everything on the menu from the mashed potatoes to the sandwiches is made in-house.

DINING

Hungry for dinner, I didn’t have to look far – Pinky’s Bar and Grill was across the street (428 Main St.). This is the kind of restaurant you walk into and everyone knows you’re not a local. The place is filled with families and couples dining together and catching up on the latest news. I chose a seat at the bar.

The special of the day was Salmon Cakes with Vegetables, but I opted for the Chef Salad and a cold beer. At Pinky’s, the owner cooks your meals fresh to order. She buzzed busily behind the counter preparing heaping plates of chicken parmesan, hand-pressed hamburgers, sandwiches or “handhelds,” and steaks. The person next to me ordered the Rigatoni Bolognese. You name it, it’s on the menu. When in Courtland, make time to visit Pinky’s.

ATTRACTIONS

I knew I had one more place to track down before the day’s end. It was time to drive to Snow Goose Lodge (250 Xavier Road) for a glimpse of the Jamestown Marsh at the overlook. I had heard about its breathtaking scenery and wanted a closer look.

A cheery couple, the property’s new owners, met me upon my arrival. I learned that the property was built to provide hunters unmatched hunting opportunities. Located just beyond the town on 48 acres, it included a log home, lodge, and bunkhouse. Before I knew it, I was sitting in an ATV and we were going for a ride to see the original homestead and to capture a better view of the buildings, including the infamous covered bridge. What a sight! It is the only covered bridge (not solely for pedestrians) in Kansas. The clock tower on top of it still works.

Photo by Snow Goose Lodge

Built in 2002, the lodge has been leased by groups and families for overnight stays. During my tour of it, I couldn’t help but admire the tall wood beams and stone fireplace. A canoe hung from the vaulted ceiling and taxidermy decorated the walls. It was the quintessential cabin. With enough space for three fully furnished bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, a loft, and an open great room, it was definitely an inviting space. I considered how easy it would be to return to Courtland with a group and stay there.

Photo by Snow Goose Lodge

On the back patio, I watched the wind push the grassy fields and birds fly back and forth to bird boxes. The lodge, built at the highest point overlooking Jamestown Wildlife Refuge, offers some of the best views in Republic County. Just off in the distance, I saw a “General Store” on the property and later learned that is where visitors practice their clay shooting skills.

Photo by Snow Goose Lodge

The property also has a smaller bunkhouse for those who are traveling solo or with a companion. To learn more about renting one of the properties for an overnight or weekend stay, contact the property directly via the website here.

Photo by Snow Goose Lodge

Just after sunrise the next morning, I planned the rest of my trip. I checked out of the lodge and made my way to the Depot Market (11101 30 Road) just beyond the cornfields leading into Courtland. I was in search of fresh-made donuts.

To my surprise, I found myself standing inside an authentic train depot/retail store. Unfortunately, the donut machine wasn’t working that morning, but that didn’t dissuade me from shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables, snacks, and cheese curds.

Just as I was about to purchase my finds, I was greeted by the Depot Market’s owner. He invited me to sit down to learn more about the depot and his business. A few minutes into our conversation and I felt like I had made a new friend.

He had the Sante Fe train depot, originally located in Courtland, moved to its current site in 1989. The market is open in the summer and sells fresh produce and farm-to-table, Kansas-made products. Just as I was learning about the depot’s history, we headed outside to get a better view of the farm fields.

With his granddaughter in tow, we walked rows upon rows of trellised berry bushes and mounds of flowers. He carried the basket while his granddaughter carefully snipped brightly colored flowers for me to take home. Visitors to the market can do the same and weigh their cuttings for purchase inside the retail store.

As we walked, Dan told me about his love of rural farming and a quieter way of life. He mentioned how wonderful it is to see people visit in droves to pick their own pumpkins in the fall and meander through the corn maze. For his family and the Depot Market’s employees, watching people smile while they pick a basket of blackberries is just another rewarding part of the job.

Just as my tour ended inside the hoop house where we snacked on raspberries, I found myself feeling sad that I had to leave. I highly recommend stopping at the Depot Market for an experience you’ll never forget.

Eight miles north of U.S. 36 on K-266, I drove to the Pawnee Indian Museum (480 Pawnee Trail) to see an authentic earth lodge. I was told it was a finalist of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, so I knew it was worth the short drive. The visit has since changed the way I view the Kansas prairie.

In the early 1800s, the Pawnee tribe chose to settle in what is now Republic County where they lived in 50 dome-shaped earth lodges. The museum opened in 1967 after archeologists excavated and uncovered half the village, which originally housed 2,ooo+ Pawnee.

Standing inside the museum, I was quieted and humbled by the experience. When you walk into the doors of the facility, you immediately catch a glimpse of an interior room. Soon, you realize that you’re standing above an actual lodge depression. Each hole in the ground, including a six-foot dry goods pit, served a purpose for the Pawnee.

Bison bones, metal tools, and a sacred bundle tell the story of a tribe that chose to live in the area to hunt big game. The women of the tribe built the lodges, gardened by the river, and performed all of the domestic duties. It is said that they even traveled as far as Colorado to source the wood beams to support the lodges.

The historic site took my breath away. The Pawnee Indian Museum forces visitors to pause and reflect on the earliest residents of Republic County. It deserves your visit.

SCANDIA, KS “Your Shopping Destination”

With the rest of my road trip ahead of me, I drove six miles to Scandia, a town known for its antique stores. I was having too much fun to stop now.

DINING

It was time for a hearty meal and I knew just the place I wanted to try, TAG’s Grill & Bar (319 Cloud St.) I spotted a meat smoker near the building hard at work billowing with blue smoke. Barbecue was on my mind.

I ordered the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with kettle chips for lunch. Just as I suspected, it was delicious. Having arrived early into the lunch hour, I noticed townies stopping by for lunch. One man ordered breakfast (you can order it all day) while another patron dined on a hamburger. But what everyone really wanted at TAG’s was a slice of cream pie or cheesecake. One man’s grandson hopped up excitedly to check out the refrigerator case full of single-serve slices. He brought it back with a smile of delight. I was going to need to leave room for dessert.

I ordered the Turtle Cheesecake, a popular choice, and began to devour it. Just then, the owner sat down at my table to say hello and get to know me better. I quickly realized that this kind of friendliness is just what you should expect from everyone when in Republic County. Warm and welcoming – they don’t know any other way.

SHOPPING

One of the highlights of visiting Scandia is that you can shop for antiques along the town’s main corridor. Visitors drive to Scandia just to shop the shelves of the Antique Mall (309 4th St.). It makes up four storefronts allowing shoppers to duck in and out of stores easily. The town screams, “Shop here!”

No stranger to antique shopping, I’d consider the items in the stores worthy of a trip to Scandia. My heart nearly skipped a beat when I came across an original linotype machine inside what was the town’s newspaper building. Other items that caught my eye included oversized pieces of furniture just waiting for someone to claim them. The prices were quite reasonable.

I stepped inside the Buffalo Gallery & Pigeonhole Studio (302 4th St.). Co-owners Connie and Marla sell their individual creations, which include an eclectic collection of handcrafted wreaths, whimsical artwork, and unique home decor. The walls were adorned with art made from hand-cut license plates.

Just down the street, I shuffled through the racks of vintage clothes inside the Rusty Wheel Boutique (304 4th St.), a great place to find women’s clothes from shoes to handbags and blouses to pants.

My final stop took me to C&C High Tunnel Farms (317 4th St.) where I met the owner, Christi. She told me how her family farm grew into a retail business. Refrigerators were stocked full of Kansas-sourced meats and cheeses and to my surprise, she carried beef from my friend’s farm, North End Farms in Salina. It just proves you never know who you’re going to meet or what coincidences you might experience on a road trip.

My visit to Republic County reminded me that the people and places of Kansas are some of the best anywhere. I learned that the people work hard to make their towns a place to call home.

Only a two-hour drive from Wichita and north of Concordia, all three towns deserve your visit. Whoever said Kansas is a flyover state, hasn’t met the fine people of Republic County or visited its towns. I promise you’ll love your experience. I’m already counting down the days until I revisit my new friends.

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: antiques, Belleville, Courtland, farming, historic site, home decor, hunting, Indians, Kansas, lodge, market, Midwest, museums, Native Americans, North Central Kansas, overlook, Pawnee, produce, racing, Republic County, road trip, Scandia, small town

Refrigerator Overhaul: How to reduce food waste and slim your waist

February 12, 2017 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

Sometimes we have to admit that things have gotten away from us.

This week I had one of those moments when I opened the refrigerator only to find teetering takeout boxes and a lack of vegetables. I know you’ve experienced this moments at least once too.

So, how do we cut down on our refrigerator waste while trying to slim our waist? If you’re like me, sometimes you buy healthy food but don’t prep it for the week and end up tossing it later. Perhaps you don’t even know what’s in your refrigerator right now.

Reducing food waste and restocking it with healthy food starts with a total refrigerator overhaul. Follow these six steps:

  1. Toss food. You work hard for your money, which everyone can respect. But the food you buy just sits in the refrigerator and doesn’t get eaten. That’s a waste of your money. Example: Look at all those condiments! How many times a year are you going to actually use three kinds of horseradish? If it is expired or not something you’ll ever use, admit it and pitch it.
  2. Clean it. Remove all items from the refrigerator from every bin and door compartment. Use a warm sudsy sponge to remove grime. For those difficult to remove stains or bits, I spray diluted Simple Green and they scrub away with little effort.
  3. Check your thermostat settings for your refrigerator spaces. Make sure they are set to temperature for the items they house.
  4. Return items to the refrigerator by category and face them (labels towards the front.) Have a hankering for pickles? Store them on the door near the ketchup and mustard. Like items should be placed with like items. Place taller items towards the back.
  5. Visit the produce section of your local organic grocery store. Recently, I bolted to our city’s new Sprouts Farmers Market and came home with bags filled to the brim with berries to leafy greens. As you know from earlier an earlier post, I’m quite the hunter when it comes to tracking down low-cost produce and clearance grocery finds.
  6. Clean and store your prepped veggies in transparent containers with secure lids. Lettuce should be washed and completely dried before storing it in new Ziplock bags. The only way you’re going to actually make time for smoothies before work is if you clean and dice all your newly purchased fruit!
Open bags and packaging, rinse with water, and allow them to completely dry before placing vegetables in new see-through containers. Place grab and go items at eye-level.

Admitting that you’ve fell off the “healthy diet” wagon isn’t easy but the shame doesn’t last long if you own it. If you admit that you live a rushed lifestyle and that the only way for you to eat healthy on a regular basis is to have grab and go produce or meal prepped food, then make sure your refrigerator (and pantry) contain those items. Taking a couple hours each weekend to prep your refrigerator for the week, will pay off.

I’ve included two produce driven recipes that are easy to pack for lunch or prep for breakfast. Try this fruit-filled spinach salad or one of five smoothie recipes!

If I can do it, you can too. Walk over to your refrigerator, open the door, and be honest. You got this!

Let me know your tips for overhauling the lazy eater’s syndrome and getting healthy in comments section below. I’d love to hear from you.

*While Sprouts Farmers Market did recently like this Instagram photo, they are not an affiliate.

Filed Under: DIY Tagged With: breakfast, clean, condiments, diet, dirty, DIY, fruit, healthy, how to, lunch, market, mustard, prep, produce, refrigerator, salad, smoothies, spinach, Sprouts, takeout, waist, waste

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Ammar
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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