Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t love Shawnee, Kansas. 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.
With excitement building, I drove to my hotel to get settled and prepare for a day of exploration. I was only going to be in Shawnee one full day and I wanted to make the most of it.
LODGING
COURTYARD KANSAS CITY SHAWNEE
Courtyard Kansas City Shawnee (17250 Midland Dr.) is an ideal place to stay when looking for pleasant accommodations near the action. It’s located minutes from downtown Shawnee, the Kansas City Power and Light District, and Legends Outlets.
As a Marriott Bonvoy rewards member, I appreciate the hotel chain for its clean, comfortable rooms that often feel like they were made just for business travelers.
The king guest room has enough room for you to lounge in the sitting area and watch TV when you’re winding down from a busy day. A desk, free Wi-Fi, microwave, and small refrigerator provide all the amenities one needs when staying away from home.
This hotel offers guests breakfast choices in the morning at The Bistro, which also serves dinner and cocktails in the evening. On-site fitness facilities and an indoor pool make it easy for guests wanting to get in a workout.
Looking for a change of scenery? The indoor and outdoor lounge spaces offer guests comfortable couches while the lobby’s work center makes it easy to catch up on emails.
BREAKFAST
PEGAH’S FAMILY RESTAURANT
Breakfast – the more important meal of the day and one that I never miss. I was anticipating the arrival of a friend to meet at Pegah’s Family Restaurant (11119 Johnson Dr.). Situated in the heart of the historic downtown district, the popular eatery has served diners homemade cooking since 1987.
Breakfast burritos, flavorful skillets, and stacked pancakes – oh my! When everything looks delicious, what should I order? I opted for the corned beef hash, eggs, and hashbrowns. It was an indulgence worth every bite. My friend enjoyed the fruit and yogurt bowl, which looked divine.
No matter what you order at Pegah’s, you’ll be thankful for the fresh ingredients and oversized portions. Plan accordingly. The restaurant is also known for delectable pies and once you see them, you’ll want to order dessert. Cruise by the refrigerator case in the front of the restaurant before asking for your check. You’ll thank me later.
To view the restaurant’s menu and location hours, visit the website. As they say, “comfort is just a spoonful away!”
DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS
If you’ve followed my travel posts, you know how much I appreciate supporting local businesses. Downtown Shawnee is a walkable district that makes it easy to spend your dollar locals since a majority of the stores, restaurants, and breweries are locally owned and operated.
Pro Tip: Leave your car parked at Pegah’s and you’re never more than a 10-minute walk from it no matter where you walk in downtown Shawnee.
AZTEC THEATRE
The first place that catches your eye when you drive into downtown Shawnee is the brightly painted Aztec Theatre (11119 Johnson Dr.). The Spanish Mission-style theater was built in 1927 and eventually closed in 1974. But that’s hardly the end of its story.
Thanks to the vision and hard work of three partners, the Aztec Theatre is fully restored and open to the public. It hosts live acts from bands to comedians and open-mic performances to special events. Looking at it from the street, it’s an eye-catching showpiece with a massive marque.
Inside, every detail of the building’s design from the tin tile ceiling to the illuminated flooring screams Art Deco design. The theatre’s lighting is worthy of an Academy Award. Neon lights and backlit sconces give it a retro vibe.
I loved the thoughtful design details added during the renovations. Make sure you stand in the lobby and look down. A surprise awaits.
During live shows Thursday-Saturday, a food truck is often parked outside in front of the theatre. To view the upcoming line-up of food trucks, check the schedule.
Patrons can enjoy full bar service in the lobby during concerts Friday-Sunday. Never miss an upcoming show by bookmarking the event calendar. The day of my visit, the Aztec Theatre was celebrating a sold-out show, Four Fried Chickens and a Coke.
I had the pleasure of getting a behind-the-scenes tour of the theatre’s balcony and green room, a space used by touring musicians. Before and after performances, band members can kick back and relax in the upstairs lounge. Do you recognize any of the signatures below scribbled across the wall?
For more event information or to see the theatre’s latest announcements, follow them on Facebook.
LUNCH
OLD SHAWNEE PIZZA
The residents in town hold Old Shawnee Pizza (6000 Roger Rd.) in high regard. After a few bites into my pizza, it was clear why they rave about it.
Did I eat the entire pizza? You know it. To be honest, it was a personal pan pizza, but I didn’t leave behind a crumb. I ordered the Tuscany Chicken Pizza made with white sauce. The thin crust was crispy just the way I like it.
Old Shawnee Pizza has a long history of serving slices. They got their start making pies and selling them out of a house in 1969. Since then, they’ve had their pizza recognized in Pizza Magazine, the industry’s authority on pies.
Customers also visit the quaint restaurant for sandwiches and salads. The house salad was made with pepperoni, more pizza cheese, bacon bits, and came with a squeeze bottle of green garlic dressing that was so good.
Between shopping downtown and touring breweries, Old Shawnee Pizza makes for an excellent lunch stop. Seat yourself and a friendly server will be right with you. If you’re unsure what specialty pizza to order, ask about the Famous Crab Rangoon Pizza.
SHOPPING
One of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday is to shop at locally-owned stores. Whatever you’re in search of, you’ll find it in downtown Shawnee.
THE DOLL CRADLE
A family-owned and operated business. The Doll Cradle (10910 Johnson Dr.) is where you go if you’re shopping for a gift for a young girl. The shop is stocked with dolls of every size and style for the little princesses in your life. Perhaps you’re in search of doll clothes or accessories? They have what you’re looking for and then some. The shop also serves as a doll hospital if you need a family keepsake restored.
Check the store’s hours or make an appointment to see the doll doctor by viewing the Facebook page.
SHANANIGANS
Make sure you have a sense of humor before entering ShananiGans (11006 Johnson Dr.). The store is stocked with inventory sure to make you laugh. From drinking glasses and comical socks to greeting cards and t-shirts, nearly everything in the store has a funny saying written on it. Make your way to the rear of the store to discover a massive amount of Kansas City Chiefs fans’ apparel.
Think of your favorite TV show. They have a hoodie or hat with your favorite actor on it. I mean, who doesn’t need a candle that reads, “Besties: Smells like petty gossip and a lot of venting. So drink up buttercup. ‘Cuz we’re not doing this sober.”? Ha!
Check out the store’s hours and latest inventory here.
TRANSPORT BREWERY
With an afternoon of shopping behind you, it’s time to enjoy a pint of beer…or two…or a flight. I won’t judge you.
Transport Brewery (1113 Johnson Dr.) was opened in 2019 after two friends decided they wanted to share a beer with the community they loved. Once they settled on the location, a historic building, they went to work renovating the space. A labor of love, they added a tasting room and designed a converted alleyway with couches for extra lounge space.
It’s a cool space – ask about the hidden cellar.
During my private tour, I learned that the owners always wanted to serve a variety of beer. Nearly a dozen taps line the wall behind the bar consisting of flagship beers and collaborations with other breweries. I enjoyed a flight featuring five beers ranging in flavors and ABV strengths. Top Traveler, a New Zealand IPA, took the award for the best beer in the line-up.
To view their current beer menu, click this link.
I noticed a chalkboard near the bar with tally marks scribbled on it. Each mark represented a beer bought for an active military service person or veteran. You can buy them a beer to be redeemed later.
To check the brewery’s hours and view the upcoming food truck schedule, head over to their website for details.
SERVAES BREWING COMPANY
Pronounced like “service,” Servaes Brewing Company (109201 Johnson Dr.) attracts craft beer drinkers who hunt down non-traditional flavors like Purple Sweet Potato Pineapple, Like Butterflies Banana Cream Pie, or JOCO Loco Cucumber Lime Gose. They’re not afraid to push the envelope.
Individual tasters are $3, but a flight of tasters is the way to go. Most patrons seemed to agree as nearly everyone had a board at their table and a flight card. A continuous rotation of beer keeps regulars coming back for more.
Saevaes Brewing Company is the first Kansas brewery owned and operated by a female head brewer. They earned my respect for the process, unapologetic beer flavors, and inviting tasting room.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, the brewery hosts pop-up shop events, trivia nights, and the like. Visit on Wednesday nights to build a mixed four-pack or to enjoy a $5 full pour during Music Bingo. Check the website for a complete listing of events and the brewery’s hours.
WINERY
WANDERING VINE AT THE CASTLE
What could feel more magical than drinking fine wine inside a castle? Visit Wandering Vine at the Castle (12401 Johnson Dr.) to enjoy a delicious chef-prepared meal and a wine flight. Open Wednesday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, the castle welcomes locals and tourists who are seeking a sophisticated dining experience.
The building has been a number of businesses over the years but has always remained a memorable landmark on the edge of downtown Shawnee. Today, 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.
Reservations are highly recommended, however, I stopped by the castle for a wine flight during the late afternoon between meal times and was served swiftly in the bar area. I chose Reds of the World, a flight that included three pours from Portugal, Washington, and Spain ($16). Premium wine flights are $26. I loved them all.
During my chat with the owner, I discovered that Wandering Vine at the Castle is known for collaborating with and serving wine from Grace Hill Winery, a vineyard only miles from my Wichita home. She gave me a tour of the castle that included a view of the wine cellar (available for private parties) and the dining room adorned with tasteful holiday decorations.
Additionally, the castle hosts numerous events during the year that pair wine tasting with thoughtfully crafted meals. For example, the New Year’s celebration includes a five-course meal perfect for couples wanting to welcome the year in style.
During other times of the year, they serve lunch until 4pm, small plates, dinner, and brunch on Sundays. Take a look at the menus here. Are you interested in experiencing Wandering Vine at the Castle? View the website and make a reservation here.
HISTORIC LANDMARKS
SHAWNEE TOWN 1929
To experience what it was like to live in a farm community and step back into time, a visit to Shawnee Town 1929 (11501 W. 57th St.) makes it a reality. The 1920s living history museum includes authentic exhibits and collections of artifacts. Life in Shawnee during the 1920s was vastly different than what you see today.
People lived to be in their mid-50s, the town’s speed limit was 12 mph, and a man’s suit cost $15. Experiencing the museum and the buildings at Shawnee town 1929 bring to life what it was like to live in the area. Clothes hang from the line to dry outdoors. The six-room farmhouse replica resembles one found in Kansas.
Whether you visit with family for the day, as a part of a school field trip, or simply want to watch a demo or take a class, Shawnee Town 1929 offers visitors an immersive experience unlike what they’ll find anywhere else in the region.
A self-guided tour is $3/adult, $1/child, Children age 5 and under can enter for free. Open March through October, Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-4:30pm, it should be at the top of your list of things to do in Shawnee. Preview your visit by taking a 360-degree video tour.
PIONEER CROSSING PARK
Drive to Pioneer Crossing Park and Statue (10406 Shawnee Mission Pkwy) to get a glimpse of artist Charles Glosin’s wagon train sculpture made from native limestone and bronze. The three-dimensional sculpture illustrates what it would have looked like to cross the prairie.
Stroll through the park between 6am and 10pm to explore the many historical markers like the one pictured above that tell the story of the Shawnee Indians and the settlers who first resided in the area. Considered one of the points of interest, Pioneer Crossing Park was built to celebrate the rich history and community spirit of the town of Shawnee.
BONUS STOPS
FAMILY TREE NURSERY
I couldn’t resist stopping by Family Tree Nursery (7036 Nieman). A novice gardener and lover of holiday decor, I wanted to see what I was told was a magical display of Christmas trees. Since 1981, the garden center has supplied plants and garden tools to green thumbs. But during the holiday season, the interior of the store becomes a winter wonderland.
Themed trees adorn the showroom floor nestled closely to gift displays and baskets of holiday ornaments. Better still, Café Equinox serves a variety of drinks and locally-made pastries, so you can grab a coffee before you shop. (As of December 2021, the café was closed for renovations.)
Visiting Family Tree Nursery, especially during the holidays, is more than a shopping trip. It’s a destination that promises shoppers an experience like no other.
I look forward to returning to the store when they host the Fall Festival Event that includes live music, bites to eat, and activities for all ages. I think you’ll enjoy the visit any time of the year. View Family Tree Nursery’s hours and upcoming events schedule here.
DINNER
HEREFORD HOUSE
With hours of fun exploration behind me, I was ready to wind down and enjoy a delicious dinner at Hereford House (17244 Midland Dr.). Luckily, it was located only steps from the front door of my hotel. Original to Kansas City, the restaurant serves hand-cut, dry-aged steaks grilled to perfection. In the mood for seafood, I selected the grilled salmon, mashed potatoes, and sautéed broccoli for dinner. Why not a steak?
The Hereford’s House steaks are beyond delicious. I’ve enjoyed them on more than one occasion while in Kansas City. Now, I can vouch for the grilled salmon flavored to perfection with a crispy crust. They have perfected surf and turf entrees.
Not one to skip dessert, I chose the crème brûlée from a star-studded line-up of classic favorites. As I devoured every bite, I reflected on my time in Shawnee.
The town 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. Shawnee deserves the accolades.
For more details about upcoming happenings in Shawnee, visit All in Shawnee’s blog page. To preview more retail shopping, read my post 8 Reasons Why Downtown Shawnee Should Be Your Shopping Spree Destination.
I spent an overnight stay in Bonner Springs, which I was glad for because between sunrise and sunset I was busy exploring and needed the extra time. My first stop? Checking into my lodging accommodations at 
Guests have access to a complimentary hot breakfast, indoor heated pool and hot tub, as well as an up-to-date fitness center with treadmills. The rooms are quiet and spacious – two must-haves for exhausted travelers who want a place to relax after a day of exploring Bonner Springs. Parking was a non-issue despite the fact the hotel stays busy with guest arrivals.
Not only does Ten & Two prepare specialty drinks and drip coffee, but they also serve breakfast sandwiches and pastries. A steady flow of customers consisting of locals and out-of-towners came in the door while I enjoyed a homemade cinnamon roll and a cup of signature coffee from a comfortable couch.
I spied beer on draft and a menu of specialty cocktails behind the coffee bar. Sure enough, Ten & Two transforms into a taproom after dark.
I drove a few blocks from The Fuel House to the Historic Downtown District to do a little shopping. Correction: A lot of shopping. Within three short blocks, I saw numerous boutiques. A few appealing eateries. I was delighted. I parked the car and set out on foot to see what I could find. My wallet was burning a hole in my pocket.
The tiny store was stocked to the gills with packaged seasonings, jams, and retro candies. The refrigerated case teased shoppers with whole cheesecakes, ice cream treats, and copious amounts of cheeses and meats. The food store is the place where neighbors visit with one another and the town’s sheriff stops by for a to-go snack.
If you’re someone who appreciates knowing where their food comes from, Karen’s Country Kitchen is the place to shop. Every package’s label lists a farmer or maker by name including the town where the food was sourced.
Owned and operated by female entrepreneurs, it’s the kind of place where they serve wine slushies or mimosas for special events.
If you don’t find the ideal gift for someone, they will custom create it for you. Their staff can print any word or phrase onto apparel or drinkware. Now, that’s great customer service. View the 
I fixated on the front display showcasing a Christmas tree and shelves of miniature gnomes. They certainly know just what shoppers are looking for during the holiday season.
Say for example that you’re on the hunt for items for a photo shoot or to gift to someone who collects vintage sit-abouts, you’re in luck. The store is filled with retro finds. Perhaps you’re more in the mood to shop for a new candle or a pretty piece of jewelry. Yowza Antiques is one-stop shopping.
I found just what I was searching for… a knit headwrap to keep my ears warm just in time for winter. And the price was reasonable – score!
New to the neighborhood, they’ve earned a loyal following. Farmhouse-style decor, t-shirts imprinted with positive sayings, and go-to gifts for friends who need a good laugh are just what fans flock to the store in search of. Preview the latest inventory for sale on their 
A firefighter standing in line behind me said I couldn’t go wrong with any of the sandwich options and that I should also “order the brownie.” My turkey avocado bacon sandwich was served on pillow-soft bread with a side of chips. I settled into a cozy seat near the rear of the cafe and watched as customers made their way to the counter.
Coffee shops are often a place for the community to gather and enjoy an espresso or meal with conversation. If you prefer reading while sipping a latté, check out the “Borrow a Book or Buy It $1” display in the rear of the cafe.
The Wi-Fi is free. The coffee is flavorsome and the food is so good you won’t have a single crumb left on your plate. View Third Space Coffee’s hours 
Breslow, who started as a woodworker, is passionate about his craft. He took me around the retail area of the store to teach me the difference between marbles. Some marbles are used in competition while others with ornate designs and for display purposes.
He is also known for designing miniature glass sculptures. Ask him to show you his design of eggs and bacon in a frying pan. You’ll discover more whimsical designs as you tour the shop. All of his creations are made with beautiful Italian glass and created on-site at his workbench.
As of now, shoppers are asked to schedule their visits in advance. Once inside, the world of marbles and toys envelopes you. Everywhere you look there are colorful displays of blown glass and marbles. Moon Marble Company also specializes in carrying a large inventory of retro games and traditional toys. I had never seen so many board games for sale in one place.
If your kids complain that they’re bored, take them to Moon Marble Company for a visit. They’ll be in awe of the toys at every turn. Many of the games in stock are ideal for adults. Party planning? Need a gift for someone? The store carries timeless classics as well as trending games ideal for group play.
But not all was lost. I learned about the historical significance of the area from the outdoor exhibits, which referenced tribal ancestry. As the sign reads below, the Wyandot people who lived in Ohio were moved to this location. To read more about their friendship with the Shawnee tribe, visit this informative 
Also located in front of the Wyandotte County Historical Museum rests the World War II Bomber Builders Monument to honor the aviation workers of Kansas City, Kansas who built over 6,000 bombers. Women fulfilled many roles at the Fairfax Bomber plant since men were overseas serving their country during the war.
Admission to the museum is free. To plan your visit and view upcoming exhibits, glance at their information page 
Let me tell you something. I’ve eaten at most of the barbecue joints in the Kansas City area, but this one served some of the best-tasting smoked meat that I’ve enjoyed. The sliced brisket, pulled pork, and burnt ends were exceptional. I wasn’t about to sacrifice any of it just because I was full. It was worth packing the leftovers on ice until I could get them home to Wichita to share with others.
Quentin’s BBQ is so popular that they’ve since opened in a restaurant located at the same site as Ten & Two Coffee and The Fuel House. If the dining room is full, take your specialty sandwich or meaty meal outdoors to enjoy on the patio. Afterward, play a lawn game or head inside the complex for dessert at Olde Mill Ice Cream.
If ice cream floats are more your thing, they’ve got you covered. Choose from one of eight flavors from the Stubborn Soda fountain. Open during evening hours, the dessert shop also serves customers milkshakes and ice cream sandwiches.
Bonner Springs blew my socks off. From the attractions to the shopping and delicious meals, I loved visiting the area. With almost a dozen boutiques located in the historic downtown area, I’ll return to do more shopping. Besides, the people were incredibly kind and I want to see them again.
One of the perks of staying at the hotel is valet parking, which is the only way to park your car when at the hotel. It’s convenient, the valet staff works around the clock, and always greets you with a smile. They’ll even advise you where to dine out in Aggieville if you ask. Don’t forget to tip the staff.
The rooms are well designed with plenty of room to enjoy one’s stay. My room included a couch (in KSU’s purple, of course!), a plush king bed, and in-room amenities, including a refrigerator. With a view of campus, I could envision KSU families staying here when attending events on campus.
Other amenities you can expect while at Courtyard by Marriott include a fitness center open 24/7, a Starbucks coffee bar featuring small plate breakfast items, and an exquisite lounge with a gas fireplace. Order a cocktail or locally made craft beer at the bar and head to the outdoor patio for a pre-dinner drink.
A bit of nostalgia and a bit of class. the cafe’s interior transports you to aviation heaven. Navy blue walls, black and white prints of airplanes, and a cozy fireplace invite you to nestle up with a coffee in hand. Jazz music plays in the background.
I was shocked at the reasonable prices. The racks, table, and shoe wall were stocked full of items I wanted to take home. You’ll appreciate the way the store is set up making selecting new apparel favorites easy. Start at the front of the store to peruse racks of new arrivals. But there’s more!
Make your way to the back to find everyday essentials and sale clothing. I can easily see why this store is popular with locals. It carries the latest looks perfect for women of every size and style. If you can’t make it to the store, you can shop online and ship it to you 
Shoppers on the hunt for home decor reminiscent of Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn will feel right at home at Furnish. The showroom is filled with neutral hues with black accents. Homeowners in search of lighting, chairs, and kitchenware are in luck.
The burning candle’s scent drew me to the shelf you see below. I was happy to see a candle that I’ve purchased many times in Wichita from Nectar Republic. Nearby, accessories ranging from picture frames to books completed the vignette.
The creaky floors and the perfectly illuminated framed artwork draw you in. Every wall of every room is adorned with artwork for sale, including pottery. While some pieces deservedly command a higher price, I found many affordable prices for the casual shopper discovering new artwork.
As a native Kansan who spends countless hours driving across the state, I appreciate the works that featured the Kansas prairie. Landscapes by Kim Casebeer and Cristine Sundquist on display showed cloud-filled skies and the sun’s rays upon the flint hills. You’ll be impressed by the breadth and quality of the collections.
Since 1981, SNW Gallery has curated and displayed paintings, prints, drawings, mixed media, and more. Intricately designed jewelry is nestled near the register. Whether shopping for yourself or someone else, you’re bound to walk away from SNW Gallery with a special piece.
Keep your eyes peeled during a visit to the brewery for tiny plastic dinosaurs. The mural on the back wall makes for a nice selfie backdrop. (Female Readers: During your self-guided tour of the brewing, check out the bathroom. I’m going to leave it at that.)
As I sat at the bar and finished a Bodacious Blackberry Milkshake IPA, I learned that one of the top-selling drinks behind the bar wasn’t even a beer. It’s their house-made sangria.
Soon, Jake and I were joined at the bar. Brewers Garrett and Adam ponied grabbed a seat. Before I knew it, the four of us were walking a few doors down to 
The lunch crowd clearly loved El Patron as much as I did. They drew a good size crowd made up of downtown workers and tourists. Looking around the restaurant at the plates on the tables, people were devouring fajitas, burritos, and seafood entrees. El Patron is a solid choice for lunch or dinner. View their 
Under cloud-filled skies, I walked to the top of the gravel trail to peek out over the town. If you have time, make the easy drive only minutes west of Manhattan off of Kansas Highway 113. (Ask Siri or Google Maps to navigate it.) You get a 360-degree view of the college town. Dog walkers love it. Bike trails welcome cyclists. It’s a beautiful setting.
Visit the statue to stand in awe and read about the KSU professor, Dr. George Filinger, who invented the fictional character to honor the town’s 100th anniversary of its founding. The park includes a swimming pool, splash pad, and playground equipment perfect for a family visit.
The football field was covered with marching band members moving in formation and playing an energizing song. The band’s director shouted from a megaphone, “Remember guys, we could make it to the bowl game. Again!”
No matter what alma mater you hail from, you need to tour the beautiful KSU campus.
With the game on TV, I wanted chicken wings. They arrived piping hot. The sauce had medium heat, and the blue cheese dressing cooled it off. While it wasn’t an entree, it hit the spot. Kite’s Aggieville is a good place to visit for what I thought was the coldest beer in town. You’ll appreciate the cloth napkins and the elevated menu. View the location and hours 
I took advantage of a sunny weather day to visit most of the Saturday events. The impressive lineup of things to do kicked off with the parade on Andover Road. Parents and kids lined both sides of the street ready to grab flying candy thrown from floats passing by.
As soon as the parade came to an end, families gathered their belongings and headed to 
Car enthusiasts gathered at the 
Gearheads grabbed their phones to snap photos. Vehicle owners chatted about their love of all things cars. In my opinion, the shining star of the show Ford Falcon Squire Wagon. The white-wall tires, candy red paint, and classic design caught my attention as well as that of passersby. What make and model do you hope to see on display at a car show?
Parents shuttled their kids to the carnival where the rides like the ferris wheel and fast-moving Tilt-a-Whirl awaited. I think the best part of the carnival was witnessing adults taking their kids on rides for the first time.
Festival Tip: For $25, you can purchase a wristband that lets you ride as many rides as you want during the carnival. While a button is required for entry to Greater Andover Days, the wristband provides hours of entertainment Friday-Saturday.
While the fishing clinic at Lake George and hot dog eating contest took place, I returned to the carnival to buy concessions food and check out the games. I asked the concessions stand worker, “Which should I buy…cotton candy or a snow cone?” Once I saw the massive bag of spun sugar, I opted for a cherry snow cone, a yummy choice.
The sound of arcade games and a ringing of the winner’s bell rang out only steps from the concessions stand. A lifelong fan of Skeeball, I had to check it out. With every toss, kids and their parents worked hard to win oversized stuffed animals.
More activity was bustling at the Business Expo/Craft Fair where artisans sold unique gifts and local store owners talked with festival-goers. In a nearby tent, kids excitedly picked out the design they wanted to have painted on their faces while parents introduced themselves to one another. Entrepreneurs talked business and chatted about local happenings.
Nearby, small groups of kids ran to the nearby bouncy houses, a highlight of Saturday’s KidFest. Children couldn’t kick off their shoes fast enough. Piles of sneakers sat outside the entrance of an inflatable castle as kids jumped and giggled inside. Long lines formed to climb the towering stairs to slide down slides where parents waiting poised with cameras.
The 
The young performers delivered a show-stopping performance that entertained while educating kids. Afterward, kids jumped up to burn off energy at three family-friendly stations nearby: hay maze, water balloons, and pedal cars.
I took a break from the activity to grab lunch at the food court where there were many choices for street food fare. I walked by a barbecue food truck and a grilled hamburger station but ultimately decided to order a “tacone” from 
I knew just the place to sit down and enjoy my meal. The beer garden. Set up on Central Park Lodge’s patio within viewing distance of the concert stage, it was the ideal setting to people watch and listen to the band’s perform soundcheck.
The excitement of the day was topped off by a spectacular firework show that lit up the night sky over Andover Central Park. Onlookers craned their necks to admire the colorful splendor.
After exploring Salina, it was nice to come “home” to modern amenities and comfy beds. We took advantage of the indoor pool and spa for ultimate relaxation. A complimentary full breakfast topped our list of must-have accommodations making Hampton Inn a smart choice for an overnight stay. “Hampton’s On the House” breakfast is served daily from 6 am-10 am.
I purchased a freshly brewed coffee with creamer and a flaky croissant. The place was abuzz with activity, so I took a number and waited for my order. Trendy music played while baristas filled cups with cold-brewed coffees and prepped fruit smoothies. Moka’s Coffee has perfected the cafe formula. Modern atmosphere + Delicious Menu Items = Must-Visit Café. I’ll certainly return for a Mile-High Sandwich for lunch sometime.
SculptureTour Salina encourages you to vote on your favorite sculpture using a ballot deposited into a box at mid-block pedestrian crosswalks. With so many incredible works on display, how do you pick only one? We loved “Butterfly Tree” by Reven Marie Swanson from Colorado. The engineering of the piece kept the butterflies balanced and moving, a design element that made it unique from the others.
All of the sculptures are available for purchase. The sculptures are replenished downtown as each one sells. However, some remain on exhibit like my personal favorite, “Off the Merry-Go-Round” by Jodie Bliss, which was purchased by Homewood Suites. To learn more about SculptureTour Salina and how to cast your vote, visit their 
The collection of fiber artists’ work continued throughout the gallery showcasing thread painting, beadwork, weaving, and quilting techniques. As a frequent museum-goer, I’m used to seeing paintings and drawings. “
We loved the variety of choices on Food Row. The hardest part was deciding what to eat thanks to so many delicious options. The smell of bbq permeated the air. The sizzling sound of paella drew onlookers. The line formed for Tex-Mex. In the end, I decided to order a Walking Taco. It is a snack-sized bag of Doritos filled with taco toppings that you eat with a fork! My boyfriend couldn’t resist ordering an Italian sausage served with peppers and onions. Honestly, this food court rivaled some of the best I’ve seen in quality and selection.
Visual arts are a focus of the festival. A portion of the festival is devoted to artists selling their work and demonstrating it. We enjoyed visiting with a landscape photographer at his vendor tent and talking about the many places he worked. Art installations were added on the festival grounds for people to enjoy. The festival features eight artisans and almost two dozen installations. It truly is an #EpicArtsParty.
The festival’s live music is astounding. At any given time, there were bands playing on various stages around the park. We walked between stages to enjoy the sounds of The Marcus Lewis Band, SunDub, and The Hooten Hallers. All of the bands were talented, but we enjoyed 
We could’ve stayed all day, but we had more of Salina to check out. Our experience at Smoky Hill River Festival was memorable and one that I look forward to repeating next year. Parking was a non-issue, the park’s trees provided ample shape, and the option to bring a cooler of canned drinks was a pleasant surprise. To plan your visit to next year’s festival, check their 
The family-owned restaurant is always bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the sports bar-like atmosphere. The in-house craft beers on tap include standards you would want to see plus specialty beers like Hatch Green Chili Cream Ale or my favorite, Watermelon Crawl.
During our visit, we quickly became friends with a brother and sister duo from the area. Whitty, fun, and super knowledgeable about Salina, we compared travel stories and talked about our love of craft beer. They told us about Blue Skye’s award-winning Bloody Mary bar and brunch menu. So, of course, we returned the next morning to try it. It was fun! The server brings you a glass of ice with a shot of vodka. Your task is to make craft your own Bloody Mary recipe using a variety of tomato-based juices, hot sauces, and add-ins. As you can see in the photo below, we had a blast using the skewers to make a bouquet of tasty treats.
I’d recommend putting Blue Skye at the top of your list of places to eat when in Salina. The locals are welcoming, and the menu exceeds your expectations. Insider Tip: Don’t forget to check out the hallway leading to the bathroom.
All in all, we had a fantastic time in Salina. If it’s been years since you’ve traveled to the area, it’s time for a return visit – so much has been updated! Should you ask yourself, “Where could we visit in Kansas that promises a good time?” Salina is the answer.
