Disclosure: Finney County Convention and Visitors Bureau sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
Garden City is a Kansas town that deserves attention for a long list of fun things to do, so much so that you’ll likely need to stay overnight or for the weekend.
From unforgettable immersive experiences to a melting pot of cultures evident in its dining scene, Garden City should be at the top of every Kansas traveler’s bucket list. As the largest city in Finney County, you’ll never run out of interesting places to explore.
I had a blast taking in Garden City’s attractions and getting to know fellow Kansans.
UNWIND AT LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS
The older, restored homes in Garden City are so visually appealing that many people choose to take the historic homes tour, which is offered every other year by the Finney County Historical Society and the Finney County Women’s Chamber of Commerce.
Built in 1909, Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast‘s Victorian architecture transports overnight guests back in history while offering modern-day comforts.
SUNNYLAND BED AND BREAKFAST
Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast (501 N. 5th Street #5633) is a highly-rated vacation rental with Victorian charm providing guests a complimentary breakfast.
Upon arrival, I walked the downstairs parlor and adjacent dining room, admiring the owner’s meticulous restoration of turn-of-the-century woodwork.
A gorgeous tiled fireplace is an anchor in the sitting room amongst period furnishings.
The dining room’s tablescape was beautifully set with an artful arrangement of seasonal plates, flatware, and decorations. The owner prides herself on updating the table decorations often.
Original stained glass windows drew my eye to an ascending staircase, where private guest rooms awaited – each one named after a Bible verse. My queen bedroom, including a twin bed and private bathroom, was painted lavender and decorated with Victorian decorative touches, including handkerchiefs and florals.
After a restful night’s sleep, I joined other guests in the dining room for breakfast. The meal started with juice and coffee before a Monte Cristo-style croissant breakfast sandwich served with homemade jam was served.
Overall, my overnight stay at Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast was a delightful experience and one I’d recommend to travelers who seek unique accommodations and personable service. I enjoyed getting to know the owners, who live on-site, and socializing with other guests during the meal.
PRO TIP: You can choose to have your meal delivered to your room for an extra fee.
Reserve your stay at Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast.
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES YOU WON’T FORGET
THE PAINT PLACE
Give yourself permission to be creative at The Paint Place (209 N. 7th Street), which offers people a chance to cut loose and have fun inside The Splatter Room. My group created individual masterpieces, splattering washable paint under black lights while listening to high-energy music.
Dressed in protective gear, we laughed as splattered paint was flicked with careless abandon – unlike any paint studio experience I had yet. The session took about 30 minutes, and afterward, I left with a cute gift for my five-year-old niece.
The family-owned paint studio also offers walk-in and reservable paint-from-a-design sessions like Boozy Art Club Paint Night. The large rooms are ideal for hosting kids’ birthdays, double date nights, or gal pal parties. Artists can bring their own snacks and drinks, including wine and beer.
PRO TIP: View upcoming events at the studio, including additional happenings in partnership with Hidden Trail Brewing.
LEE RICHARDSON ZOO
Free to explore, Lee Richardson Zoo (312 E. Finnup Drive) is one of the best small zoos I’ve explored in the state. As I embarked on an early-morning self-guided tour, I heard wild animals calling one another and a lion’s roar got my attention.
The size of the zoo and its variety of wildlife exceeds one’s expectations. While you can drive-thru the zoo for a fee, I recommend walking the grounds to each exhibit stopping to rest at designated benches when the mood strikes.
If you arrive during the animals’ breakfast feeding time, you’ll see an endangered black rhino, a main wolf, and an Amur Leopard actively moving about the enclosures. A Sarus Crane’s loud calls competed for my attention while a mal Addax African Lion roared his morning welcome atop a rock.
Sensory-accessible zoo areas are marked on a map, identifying loud and quiet places.
For me, the most enjoyable part of visiting a zoo is watching the giraffes. One reticulated giraffe in particular didn’t seem to mind me watching it strip bark from branches for several minutes before it joined its giraffe family.
You can expect to see native and exotic animals, ranging from the smallest invertebrates to large mammals. The river otters were not outdoors during my visit, so I can’t wait to return to see them at play in the water.
ESCAPE THE CLOCK
Test your puzzle-solving skills at Escape The Clock (124 N. Main Street #5458) with friends or family members before time runs out. First, choose the thematic room and challenge level.
Then, work together to figure out codes that reveal clues or unlock boxes with additional clues. The key to escaping the room before the one-hour time limit expires is to keep it simple.
My group escaped the clock with 52 seconds to spare inside Sunken Secrets, a deep-sea research submersible in peril. The two-room submarine was well-designed and kept our attention through each step until we successfully resurfaced.
The clue master had to help us a few times over the room’s speaker, but we solved it.
Afterward, we signed our group’s names on the wall with our ending time and snapped a photo to mark the occasion.
Each room design impressed with its details and storyline, and most of the rooms are appropriate for all ages. Walk-ins are welcome; however, you can preview room details and reserve a session online or via phone.
FINNEY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Touring the Finney County Historical Museum (403 S. 4th Street) and its True Crime exhibit is another worthwhile experience you must include during your visit.
It showcases timelines, actual evidence, and donated artifacts detailing several notorious crimes in the county, such as the 1959 Clutter murder case, inspiring author Truman Capote to write the novel, “In Cold Blood” about the deaths of the Herb and Bonnie Clutter family at the hands of prison parolees Richard Hickock and Perry Smith.
You’ll also learn about the Fleagle Gang, bank robbers, and murderers of the 1920s by criminals Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, Bonnie Parker, and Clyde Barrow. The temporary exhibit remains viewable due to its popularity.
Other museum areas are equally fascinating, detailing the county’s prominent people and industries. Start a self-guided tour in a room highlighting the area’s earliest residents, Native Americans. (Don’t miss the mammoth tusk!)
Meander into the main gallery to uncover historical facts about Buffalo Jones, a man who settled on 160 acres of ranch land in the area who worked with the town’s founders to convince two railroads, the Atchison-Topeka and the Santa Fe, to stop in Garden City.
A curious learner, I was intrigued by other exhibits, such as the 19th-Century Kitchen, Santa Fe Trail, Finney County Agriculture, and Take Stock in Finney County, that explain the area’s prolific cattle industry.
I’ve toured innumerable county museums, and this one is one of the best for its overall design and rotating exhibits.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss The World’s Largest Hairball removed from a cow’s stomach on display at the museum’s welcome desk. View the museum’s seasonal hours before making the drive.
FLOURISH HERBALS & AROMATHERAPY
Sometimes, you need to pause the hustle of travel to relax and unwind. Flourish Herbals & Aromatherapy (203 E. Laurel Street) is the place to do just that. You can purchase dried herbals by ounce to incorporate into recipes or home remedies, and you can enjoy a flavorful hot or iced tea prepared at the tea bar.
Additionally, the staff is ready to assist you in creating aromatic bath products or a room spritzer at the Blending Bar. After a few minutes inside the retail store, you naturally feel your shoulders relax, and with the owner’s guidance, you learn what herbals and essential oils best suit your needs.
I thoroughly enjoyed a 60-minute relaxation massage, which included red light therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Afterward, I felt less stressed and my mood lifted. My hope is that you make time for yourself as well.
View the massage menu and pricing.
SHOP LIKE A LOCAL FOR TREASURES
After the railroad established itself in Garden City, the population of Southwest Kansas grew, and its downtown offerings appealed to people passing through town as they do today. Today, thriving downtown Garden City attracts people who prefer to shop and dine locally.
THE CORNER ON MAIN
Every town needs a store like The Corner on Main (324 N. Main Street). A third-generation business, the boutique offers various home decor, gifts, jewelry, baby products, and specialty food items. You could spend an hour shopping here.
My heart beat faster with excitement as I discovered item after item I wanted to purchase. Drink mixes, Kansas-made jarred products, lovely pillows, and jewelry with inspirational messaging. I left for home with a bag of goodies, and I suspect you will too.
SAGEHOUSE BATH & BODY
Nearby, SageHouse Bath & Body (312 N. Main Street) sells handmade soap, bath products, and home fragrances you can’t live without. Using goat’s milk, the owner’s handcrafted soaps are okay for even the most sensitive skin types for men or women. As the name implies, one will also discover purifying sage available.
If you’re unsure which scented body product to purchase, the owner will help you determine a signature scent. When in doubt, the most purchased soap fragrances are Black Raspberry Vanilla and Kansas Sunset. Each one smelled natural and not overly perfumey.
PRO TIP: Inquire about SageHouse Bath & Body‘s individualized services such as an ion foot cleanse, red light therapy, salt therapy, and ear seeds.
BONUS RETAIL STORES TO SHOP
My itinerary for the day was tightly scheduled, so I missed visiting a couple of stores. I look forward to returning to downtown Garden City to shop at Klaus Wood Pellets & Outdoor Living and Main Street Market Hub.
EXPLORE PUBLIC ART & GALLERIES
HISTORIC STATUES
You’ll want to appreciate the historic statuary designed to beautify and educate passersby along Main Street and beyond.
If it wasn’t for Charles Jesse “Buffalo” Jones, Garden City wouldn’t be what it is today. A towering statue of the plainsman rests on the Finney County Courthouse lawn. Read the panel inscriptions to learn more about his legacy.
In patriotic fashion, the courthouse lawn is also home to a Little Sisters of Liberty replica statue, one of over 200 like it across the United States. In 1950, the Boy Scouts of America local chapter installed it as part of a national crusade emphasizing liberty and freedom.
Across the street, an oversized rustic metal sculpture resembling a geometric buffalo stands at attention. Stop here for a quick photograph before exploring the rest of the downtown area’s sculptures.
PRO TIP: Garden City’s walkable historical home tour is worthy of consideration if you appreciate architecture. View the locations.
MAGNIFICENT MURAL
A town that celebrates the arts by installing a mural conveys a happy personality. The Monarch Butterfly Mural (310 N 7th Street) represents a new life and the plant life is meant to reflect the town’s name and the diverse people who call Garden City home.
Look closely and you’ll see the stages of a butterfly’s life cycle. A local told me the city plans on adding an AI interactive component to the mural making it an engaging experience for those who stop to enjoy it.
GARDEN CITY ARTS
No other place in town honors the talents of makers and creators as much as Garden City Arts (318 N Main Street), a non-profit organization benefiting the community.
Stop in to view current art exhibits or inquire about taking a pre-enrolled single-session class. Walk-ins are welcomed if available spots are open.
I was happy to learn that not only is much of the gallery’s artwork is for sale, ranging from glass creations to paintings, but more creations are on exhibit at various locations around town.
PRO TIP: Garden City organizes public works of art projects, and you can contribute to them, so be sure to view the gallery’s events calendar.
SIP & SAVOR AROUND TOWN
PATRICK DUGAN’S
When craving a wake-me-up cup of coffee or a mid-day Italian soda, visit Main Street mainstay Patrick Dugan’s (301 N. Main Street). Since 2008, it’s served as a community gathering place for small groups chatting up about the day’s happenings and remote workers who make use of the Wi-Fi to get projects done.
I love a carefully crafted cup of java (they use Kansas-made PT’s Coffee Roaster’s Flying Monkey Espresso), but on the day of my visit I was craving a refreshing iced Italian soda. Its cherry lime flavor quenched my thirst.
If you’re visiting during morning hours, refer to the breakfast sandwich menu and don’t miss the seasonal specialty drinks offerings.
MILK & HONEY AT THE FLIGHT DECK
As a pilot’s girlfriend, I know something about flying into airports to appreciate on-field restaurant fare, and Milk & Honey at the Flight Deck (2215 S. Air Service Road) is certainly worth the trip to Garden City Airport. You don’t have to be a pilot to enjoy their elevated breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu items with views of the tarmac.
The cinnamon roll pancakes arrived stacked and covered with copious vanilla-flavored icing, which I’d recommend for diners with a sweet tooth.
I spied other savory breakfast items at fellow guests’ tables, such as shrimp and grits, biscuits and gravy, and a crab cake club. Maybe you’re craving eggs benedict? You’re in the right place.
Illuminated by sunshine from floor-to-ceiling windows facing the airport’s runway, the restaurant is also a go-to Sunday brunch destination. Seasonal menu items are highlighted on their Facebook page. No reservation is required.
CASA MARIACHI
Mega margaritas, sizzling tacos, and smothered burritos are some of the delectable menu items at Casa Mariachi (125 W Pine Street). But first, sample their chips and salsa, which are some of the best in the state.
Chomp chips while you peruse the six-page menu and listen to Mexican dance music over the speakers.
After careful consideration, I chose a pork burrito smothered in green verde sauce and white queso. My server helped me find what I was craving on the menu, and I was pleased with the pork’s soft texture and savory spices.
Whether you’re visiting Casa Mariachi for a lunch or dinner date or watching soccer while devouring a scrumptious meal, the festive vibe and menu selections deliver a party vibe.
TRADITIONS SODA & SANDWICH SHOP
To visit Garden City without stopping at Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop (121 W. Grant Avenue) would be a crime. A Garden City original since 1925, a throwback menu showcasing 5-cent root beer, tin ceilings, and an old-fashioned soda fountain are nostalgic throwbacks.
Claim a booth or a counter barstool during lunch or dinner hours to order a made-to-order burger with fries and a thick chocolate malt or shake. I recommend sitting at the counter to see a view of the bustling kitchen staff.
Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop remains a hometown favorite. Regular customers are recognized by name, and locals stop by for to-go orders. Not many old-fashioned soda fountain counters remain in Kansas, and this one is well worth the visit.
PRO TIP: Borrow a Garden City yearbook from the restaurant’s collection and flip pages while you dine.
NAPOLIS ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Do yourself a favor and dine at Napolis Italian Restaurant (2204 E. Kansas Avenue #5) for traditional Italian chicken entreés, pizza, and sizzling baked pasta dishes rich in flavor.
If you partake in a pre-dinner drink, ask your server for the wine menu or select from an imported beer list. During my dinner-time visit, I found the service attentive and friendly.
The house salad was good, and while I enjoyed the balsamic dressing and crunchy lettuce, it left me wishing it had less cheese and more sliced vegetables. But it was okay because the star of the dinner was the baked ziti pasta served bubbling hot.
The cheese stretched with every sauce-coated bite, making it a rave-worthy meal. Regretfully, I was too full from my meal to enjoy cheesecake or a cannoli, but that’s just another reason to return.
PRO TIP: The restaurant posts meal discounts and themed dinner nights to its Facebook regularly, so follow the page to stay in the know.
HIDDEN TRAIL BREWING
Hidden Trail Brewing (2010 E Schulman Avenue) isn’t just another Kansas brewery. Since 2021, it’s been a place where community and visitors alike can hang out and feel welcomed, including families with kids and dog owners who want to relax with a craft beer on the patio.
Unlike other breweries I’ve visited, Hidden Trail Brewing hosts live music and a food truck and encourages people to bring a cake and decorations for an impromptu celebration.
The brewery uses a large, on-site production facility. Three flagship pours are served on tap, and the remaining nine taps are reserved for rotators. The bartender told me the brewery’s gluten-free Wicked West Cider is popular with regulars.
The evening of my visit, an acoustic original songwriter sang while newcomers milled about chatting with friends. I appreciate the brewery wide selection of beer types choosing best-selling El Compadre, a adjunct lager, and maltier Irish ale, Clurichaun.
BONUS PLACES TO SIP & SAVOR
Time ran out before I could sit down for a meal at Hannah’s Corner (comfort food) or Baron’s Steakhouse & Bar (American cuisine), which my host highly recommended. Locals tell me karaoke night at Loving’s Moon bar brings down the house on Saturday nights.
IF YOU HAVE EXTRA TIME
GARDEN RAPIDS AT THE BIG POOL
Garden Rapids at the Big Pool (504 E Maple Street) is the end-all-be-all of public swimming pools with multiple areas for aquatic fun. Endurance swimmers will appreciate the competitive lap pool, while families with kids are likely to gravitate to the elephant slide, Otter Rapids or Dolphin Dive.
If the outdoors is more your mode, consider playing 18 holes at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course or Southwind Golf Course. Prefer to see nature from two wheels? Ride your bike along the Talley Trail greenway.
No matter the itinerary, you can make unlimited happy memories exploring Garden City, a Southwest Kansas destination sure to exceed your expectations.
No. 7 Coffee House is a morning hangout where locals greet one another as they walk in and discuss the day’s events. They sip coffee with dining on maple pecan scones, muffins, and sausage quiche.
At lunchtime, locals gravitate to the coffee shop to market fresh sandwiches, salads, and wraps. The day I visited, the owner made homemade bierocks in the kitchen. Each day, the chalkboard displays a new menu special. Locals told me the Chicken Salad on Croissant sandwich is a must-have menu item.
Goff wants the mural’s vibrant colors to attract viewers who use it as an interactive backdrop to take selfies. I didn’t hesitate to take one with the sunflower’s petals in the background. The artist said she may not sign the mural because “it belongs to the town.”
Artist Majorie Hall Bicker painted a scene depicting moments in Wellington’s history around the corner from BeeHive Quilt Shop on 7th Street. Dedicated to the city in 2000, visiting the mural should be part of everyone’s visit to town.
PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for ghost signs that appear faded on downtown buildings. The 120-year-old Jacob Engle Dry Goods sign at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Street was recently restored for Wellington’s 150th anniversary.
Another can’t-miss architectural wonder, The Pink House (114 S. Jefferson), is a sight for the eyes. Unlike any other residence in Wellington, the home is not open to visitors, but people often take photos with it in the background.
The park features picnic areas, playground equipment for the kiddos, a sand volleyball pit, and fishing areas. The well-maintained disc golf course includes concrete pads and wide fairways for beginner to moderately difficult play.
Outside, the historical tour continues with the Bronze Field Guns exhibit. The cannons were delivered upon the request of the Grand Army of the Republic James Post of Wellington in 1909. Delivered in 1915, they serve as a memorial.
PRO TIP: Visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce to purchase branded merchandise, including ground coffee, t-shirts, holiday ornaments, and more.
Interestingly enough, the building itself is a historical treasure. Once known as Hatcher Hospital, Dr. A. R. Hatcher and his staff treated patients using state-of-the-art equipment in pristine conditions. The building was gifted to the Chisholm Trail Museum in 1965.
Of course, I was fascinated by the room designed to resemble a vintage soda fountain complete with a vinyl booth, ice cream dishes, and the “Let’s Sell Ice Cream” book once used at the Chief Drug Soda Fountain until 1986.
At age 85, Perry enthusiastically gives guided tours of the museum, pointing out items he curated or gifted to him, like the two-sided depot bench and original Santa Fe merchandise featuring the company mascot, Chico. A clock wall displays timepieces that were inspected for the correct time to ensure trains arrived on schedule.
Aside from the impressive collection, it’s possible that Perry’s love of all things railroad will rub off on you. Not only did I learn about railroad employees’ work, but I also had a better appreciation for the industry that helped develop so many Kansas towns, including Wellington.
At 
Besides beautiful apparel, Bay & Brielle Co.’s accessories are on par with the latest trends. A collection of seasonal shoes, hats, and colorful handbags make completing an outfit a cinch.
Most of the inventory caters to shoppers looking for a refined rustic or farmhouse deco style. A corner of the store even carries nursery decor and toys for parents or grandparents looking for something new. Shopping at Salty Creek Decor is an interior designer’s dream and is sure to inspire.
I tried something out of my comfort zone and sampled the highly recommended fresh pork rinds with pepper jack cheese and spinach queso, which I devoured. The rinds arrived at the table, crackling fresh from the fryer.
My server recommended that I save room for dessert, and even though I was full, I couldn’t turn down caramel churros with vanilla ice cream drizzled with honey and chocolate. 100% delicious.
Wellington is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring some of the top attractions in south-central Kansas. A short drive from Wichita, I was delighted to meet residents who made me feel welcome, and there were unlimited places to explore. I know you’ll fall in love with it, too.
If you’ve not enjoyed tamale, you can expect shredded chicken, pork, or beef in sauce wrapped in masa inside a corn husk. The dish represents traditional food brought to the states by Mexican immigrant populations. Masa is a soft dough made from ground corn with a slightly sweet yet savory flavor.
I ordered a Dirty Horchata served hot to accompany my meal. A cinnamon vanilla rice drink with a double espresso was served in a vibrant handmade coffee cup. The cafe’s interior is visually stunning as it is filled with colorful pottery from Mexico. All of it is marked for sale, so keep your eyes peeled for a gem to take home with you.
When our bus stopped at the 
We drove to a historic two-story stone building near railroad tracks and a baseball field, which has served as the headquarters for 
The nondescript building was constructed because the community needed a place where Latinos could gather without discrimination. In the early 1900s, it served as a Methodist mission and school. Years later, the outside of the building contrasts greatly with the interior’s design which features a sports bar where locals gather to enjoy game day.
It’s a hidden gem, or the kind of restaurant locals know and dare not tell others about, because their go-to places become crowded. Bring your appetite and prepare to be wowed by fresh seafood dishes like Shrimp Chipotle, Fire Grilled Trout, and Seafood Paella. They didn’t win Best Seafood and Best Mexican Food by Feast magazine for nothing.
It’s one of the most festive celebrations I’ve attended. Vendors line both sides of Central Avenue, offering the best gifts and authentic Mexican food dinners. The smell of freshly grilled meat lingers in the air.Walking the route, you encounter live bands performing Latin pop and regional Mexican music in front of small groups of onlookers. Women dressed as Catrinas wear makeup resembling skeletons ad flowing gowns with hats or elaborate headdresses.
I was asked if I wanted to ride in the parade inside a decorated bus with authentic music (see pictured). “Yes, of course!” We threw candy to eager children from the bus and waved at families. Dancers led our path down the street. Everyone was in good spirits laughing, eating authentic food, dancing, and singing. The festival is one you don’t want to miss.
Take a moment to downtown 
The town was hosting the 15th Annual Fall Fest the day I arrived and the Kansas weather couldn’t have been more beautiful.
Shut the Door Contest
During my self-guided tour, I came upon whimsical paintings depicting flowers and landscape scenes. One door showcased a Mexican restaurant’s theme. You don’t necessarily need a map to find the back door murals. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk down the alleyways in the downtown area.
With names like “Giraffes on Parade,” “Random Scraps,” and “Flying Geese,” each quilt was an expression of the creator’s personality. Table toppers and queen-sized bedding creations drew attention.
You can expect a free, self-guided tour to see exhibits featuring one-room schoolhouse items, Carrie Nation history, barbed wire history, World War I & II memorabilia, and the tools of 1900s trades. The building itself is historic because of its aging architecture and tin ceilings. View the museum’s hours 
Kernodle’s two-frame mural showcases an early version of how the Tallgrass Prairie used to look when it flourished. The second painting on the right represents the current state of the prairie.
Other murals around town will grab your attention. Cruise just beyond the boundary of the downtown area to see murals like the one pictured below painted on the side of a building at Banner Creek Reservoir (10975 KS-16).
I ordered an 8″ Meat Lovers Pizza at the counter and sat down and waited for it. Families continued to pour into the restaurant looking for open seating. Customers with call-in orders approached the counter. The phone never stopped ringing.
But it’s more than a variety store. Everyone I talked to in town raved about its old-fashion soda fountain, so I had to order a classic chocolate ice cream cone. Kids in the store gleefully looked at shelves of candy asking their parents to buy Laffy Taffy or suckers. The store is a mainstay in Holton dating back decades. You’ll appreciate the building’s original floors and tin ceiling.
Shoppers earn discounts if they sign up for the “Text Club” and they are willing to ship items via USPS to you. If you join their rewards membership, you earn one point for every pre-tax dollar you spend on a purchase.
Employees keep shoppers intrigued by offering specials from $5 Grab Bags to discounted merchandise specials. Stay up to date on the latest inventory and deals by checking their 
In addition, you’ll discover new items from home decor to packaged specialty foods. You’re bound to want a canister of hot chocolate mix, apple butter, or dipping mix.
Prior to the performance, attendees enjoyed a catered homestyle meal with dessert at community tables with other audience members. Affordable cocktails were available for purchase.
I’d highly recommend you try to plan your trip to Holton around the theater’s upcoming performance. The actors’ talent was impressive. To view the event schedule and reserve a ticket, visit the box office details 
Seated indoors, I noticed that most of the morning café traffic came via the drive-thru. I found the interior of the café to be inviting. The employees were patient as I chose my menu items and were more than welcoming.
All of the homes on the tour are private residences except one that is maintained by the Jackson County Historical & Genealogical Society. I was amazed by the 
The nearby 
During my drive around town, I got out of the car to get a closer look at the statuary honoring Holton’s residents. Be sure to check out the war memorial honoring US Army Sergeant Bernard Lee Deghand in the town’s courthouse square. You’ll also be in walking distance of a cannon statue “Erected by Will Wendell in 1913.”
Military memorials at the park are impressive. Holton is a Purple Heart City, so the memorial on site honors every medal recipient. A World War II memorial pays tribute to Company “E” of the 137th Infantry who died at war.
The town’s
As I looked for a clear or colored orb, I appreciated the picturesque views that included fishing piers, a 9-hole disc golf course, and campsites. Walking trails weaved around the lake.
Unfortunately, I didn’t find an orb but I enjoyed the search. If you find one, you can keep it. But should you locate a second orb, you are encouraged to leave it where it is or re-hide it. Maybe I’ll have better luck next time! View a map of the area 
As we made our way to a table, I stopped to peer inside double-door refrigerator housing plates of sliced pie. I knew I wasn’t leaving the restaurant without devouring a slice.
I loved my visit to Holton. As they say, you can have it all in Jackson County. Holton embraces visitors and you’ll feel just as welcome as I did.
I encourage you to travel to Holton for an overnight stay to explore a small-town setting with some of the state’s top attractions. You’ll never lack for something to discover in this charming town north of Topeka.
As I drove up to the building, I saw shoppers milling around a nearby business looking at furniture on display. Some people were exiting with full shopping bags while others were excitedly making their way inside. It was a thrift shop. Very cool.
The barista crafted the perfect chai latté for me. The cafe smelled of freshly baked peanut butter cookies while I sipped my drink and watched shoppers peruse the shelves. Quiche, homemade tarts, and cookies sat in the pastry case waiting for someone to enjoy. A line formed at the counter.
To my surprise, the cafe’s menu prices were quite reasonable. A brown sugar latte on the seasonal board was only $2. Considering they serve 
That’s a mission that I can get behind, and I’m sure you can as well. When in Topeka, consider driving to Judee’s Coffee for a breakfast treat before a morning of shopping. View the cafe’s hours 
The best way to appreciate the collections is to start in the Early People exhibit and work your way through to the museum to the Recent Past. Along the way, you’ll learn how Native Americans settled in areas of Kansas, the impact of the Civil War on the state’s people, and the tragic story of Bleeding Kansas.
The final exhibit features pop culture artifacts from the recent past. It’s an immersive experience. Sit down in the 1950s dinner. Gaze at the glass shadow boxes filled with fast food artifacts. Think back to the early days of Big Cheese Pizza and White Castle, NuWAY, and Pizza Hut. Which Kansas restaurant was your favorite as a child?
I started my tour of the historic district by ducking inside the 
Visitors also enjoy the quirky antique stores and inviting eateries that make up the restored neighborhood. You’ll likely need a couple of hours to truly shop the stores because each one is stocked full of collectibles and uniquely individual pieces. If you’re someone who drools over mid-century furniture, step inside of 
Street art and oversize murals make NOTO Arts & Entertainment District a must-stop. Notable murals include brightly colored scenes of animals, dreamscapes, and flowers. You’ll stop in your tracks when you see the building that doubles as a massive mosaic. It’s covered with intricately placed, tiny pieces of colored glass.
Famished from a morning of exploring the city, I dined on the Pennant Original Burger topped with everything with a side fries (don’t forget the truffle sauce for dipping). If you’re craving it, you’ll find it on the menu. Homemade chili three ways. Patty melts. Milkshakes topped with cupcakes and sprinkles. Most patrons leave the restaurant with a box because they don’t want to leave a bite behind.
The day Monroe Elementary School opened in 1927, it was was a racially segregated school. Parents of several students joined others in Topeka as plaintiffs in the Brown v. Board of Education lawsuit against the “separate but equal” doctrine, which was eventually ruled as a violation of the 14th Amendment by the United States Supreme Court.
Having been a product of the bussing system as a child in the 1980s and a high school teacher later in life, I felt chill bumps walking through Monroe Elementary School during my self-guided tour.
Visitors should start their tour inside the gymnasium to watch a 30-minute introductory film explaining the climate of the civil rights era and the case that ended legal segregation in public schools. Afterward, you can walk inside each classroom dedicated to the timeline of events. The upstairs is closed to visitors.
I was moved to tears as I watched videos of civil unrest. I imagined what it was like to be a student at Monroe Elementary School. A visit to the historic site is one that is well spent and it is certainly a memorable one.
If you have questions upon entering the school, I recommend asking the knowledgeable National Park Service ranger on site. To view the museum’s hours, plan you visit 
The building is over 100 years old, but you can’t tell from its up-to-date style. 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.
I found the in-room amenities to be exceptional. The interior design included built-in storage and an oversized desk. A frequent traveler, I appreciated the convenience of having a refrigerator, Keurig coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi access in the room. When it was time to retire for the night, I loved the luxurious bed linens. Cyrus Hotel considered every detail when designing a space for ultimate relaxation.
Hotels guests will appreciate the lounge with a fire pit in the courtyard. Ready for dinner and drinks? You don’t have to leave the hotel to find an excellent dining option. 
As I sat at the clothed table enjoying my meal and sipping on an espresso martini, I felt as if I had been transported outside of Kansas to New York City. To top off the experience, I indulged in an after-dinner drink, a classic Old Fashion. Swanky, indeed.
If you get the opportunity to choose your accommodations for an overnight stay in Topeka, I hope you’ll choose the Cyrus Hotel. Not only does it make for a comfortable stay in the heart of the city, but the amenities spoil you. Did I mention it is also pet-friendly and street parking is free from 5pm-9am? It just keeps getting better.
With more than enough to do in Topeka, an overnight stay is simply not enough time to experience it all. I look forward to visiting the 
The residents have always treated me kindly. Their welcoming spirit is genuine. I’m one of the town’s biggest fans for its progressiveness, focus on the arts, and plethora of entertainment options.
LODGING
I had the pleasure of staying in the 
The new hotel features Hilton’s expected amenities and then some. 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.
Guests also have access to complimentary free nearby parking, a hot breakfast, free WiFi, evening socials Monday-Wednesday. The impressive evening socials give guests a chance to unwind with an alcoholic beverage and a light dinner – and it’s all included in your stay.
The fitness room was the largest I’d ever seen in a hotel and it featured top-of-the-line exercise equipment. For swimmers looking to do laps, the pool is definitely large enough. Lounge chairs also make it an ideal place to sit back and close your eyes in relaxation. The facilities were clean and spacious. 
Homewood Suites by Hilton has thought of EVERYTHING. For travelers who have an extended stay, they’ve provided a laundry room for guests to use, a delightful discovery. Imagine arriving home with a suitcase of clean clothes!
And it gets better! Upon check-in, you’ll be asked what kind of complimentary coupon you would like to use at the hotel’s Starbucks cafe. Buy One, Get One specialty coffee beverages? Don’t mind if I do. Homewood Suites by Hilton rolls out the red carpet. After getting settled into your room, you’ll want to extend your stay. I highly recommend 
The 90-minute dramedy, set in 1912, told the story of scientist Marie Curie who spent two months at her friend Hertha Ayrton’s seaside home recovering from the emotional scars from public scrutiny. The two-person cast performed in a black box theatre where the audience sat only feet from them. It was a moving experience.
I love a museum that tells a story well. Did you know that Salina was once the third-largest producer of flour in the world? The newest exhibit, “
Eventually, the town became a crossroads for industry that included the railroad, Schilling Air Force Base (closed in 1966), technology companies, trucking, and healthcare.
The museum includes an abundance of hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. From examining parts of a buffalo to building a city and starting a tornado to playing with old-fashioned toys, Smoky Hill Museum is an entertaining experience. Make sure to walk upstairs to 
Before you exit the museum, purchase Kansas-made products and keepsakes in the gift shop. They have a wide selection of travel guides and non-fiction books about Kansas.
There is no charge to visit the Smoky Hill Museum. They are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Plan your visit 
Opened as the Fox-Watson Theatre in 1931, it was the idea of a wealthy grocer and banker in Salina. W.W. Watson, with help from others, opened the doors to the movie palace considered “one of the most beautiful in Kansas.” (Source: Stiefel Theatre). It was later renamed after Milton Stiefel who was a major contributor to its renovation.
Fast forward decades later after a major renovation in 2003. The theatre’s state-of-the-art sound system, backstage accommodations, and stunning interior make it a must-stop venue for performers.
Later, I met up with the executive director of the 
If you also appreciate listening to orchestral music or perhaps have always wanted to hear it, you can purchase tickets to one or all of the six concerts performed each year. The holiday show is so well attended that it was expanded to two days.
My first priority when touring Rolling Hills Zoo was to visit the giraffe exhibit. I approached the area slowly as to not startle them. To my surprise, Zuri, Billie, and the youngest, Korey, were as interested in me as I was in them. Korey, who was born in December 2020, is 10 feet tall and growing. The other giraffes are 11 years old.
I visited the zoo in the early afternoon hours when most of the animals were napping, including a bear in a hammock. However, a tiger rose from his slumber to yawn in acknowledgment of passersby. Capybaras and flamingos explored. Barnyard animals greeted children.
The zoo has an 
A visit to Rolling Hills Zoo should be at the top of your list of things to do when in Salina. To experience the upcoming events, view gate admission prices and the zoo’s hours, visit the 
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Known for carrying antiques, market finds, and locally-made jewelry, 
In search of new clothes to add to your closet? 
I came home with a pair of earrings from 
Also a place for families, the youngest visitors will appreciate the children’s book section and inviting gumball machine. I recommend asking about the specialty coffee of the month. Proceeds from my purchase of a Bee Kind Latté went to a local non-profit. You’ll find it difficult to leave without buying a book, t-shirt, or Kansas-themed gift.
DAGNEY’S ICE CREAM
MARTINELLI’S LITTLE ITALY
Leave room for homemade tiramisu or creme brûlée. Ask for the drink and dessert menus before ordering your meal to plan ahead. The family-style portions are HUGE. A quarter-size pasta dish is prepared with a half-pound of pasta. The spaghetti comes with a one-pound meatball. You’ll need a to-go box.
DAIMARU STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
Daimaru is popular with locals. The sushi chefs never stood still. I watched as they prepared enormous sushi platters. Artfully designed, the sushi tasted as good as it looked.
