Updated February 2026
Disclaimer: This post is done in partnership with Explore Great Bend. All opinions and photos are my own.
I’m thrilled to return to Great Bend, Kansas, any chance I get. Less than a two-hour drive from Wichita, it’s a playground for outdoor lovers and visitors who appreciate shopping and dining.
The Central Kansas town I spent time in as a kid holds a special place in my memories, so I didn’t pass up a chance to attend the 2024 Great Bend Airport Airfest..
MAKING THE MOST OF GREAT BEND AIRPORT AIRFEST
“Clear prop!” The 2024 Great Bend Airfest was incredible. We sat close to the high-flying action as warbirds and aerobatic aircraft whizzed through the Kansas skies.
Airshow Performances
The event, which occurs every three years during September, hosts pilots who put on impressive performances with death-defying micro loops, torque rolls, barrel rolls, and nose over tail maneuvers often pulling up to 5Gs.
We watched feats of bravery as each pilot pushed their aircraft to the limit overhead. The show boss called the action to the backdrop of high-energy music choreographed with each pilot’s show.
The crowd engaged with applause and often jumped out of their seats to examine the action on the ground before takeoff.
Our seats, positioned directly behind the guide rope, gave us unobstructed close-up views, which you don’t often get at big city airshows. The Saturday and Sunday daytime shows were spectacular. Unfortunately, due to rain, we didn’t watch the Twilight Airshow.
Aircraft Rides & Tours
Aircraft rides and tours for a small fee are available the entire weekend of the show. Short lines formed from bomber aircraft as attendees waited to climb aboard warbirds for a closer look.
A proud Wichitan, I especially love witnessing people admire the airworthy Doc, B-29 Superfortress since it was produced in my hometown. I highly recommend climbing into the cockpit or the navigator’s seat during a guided tour, if given the opportunity.
A DTWA helicopter whizzed overhead, providing non-stop rides over the airport and the surrounding area. Attendees needing speed fastened their seat beats for a Drive Experience with Precision Exotics racing down the tarmac.
Static Displays
We admired B-29 Doc (Wichita aviation pride!) on the ground, and the other bomber warbirds shined, attracting onlookers. Static displays include Lockwood’s Warhorses (military Jeeps and tanks) and ten other historic aircraft.
At the DreamBig Entertainment experiences, airshow attendees paid a small fee to climb into a stationary F-18 or F/A 18 cockpit for a photo opportunity.
The presence of these remarkable aircraft is fitting, given that Great Bend Army Field was a United States Air Force base. Today, it operates as Great Bend Municipal Airport, the same airport I took my first flight at as a second grader.
B-29 Memorial Plaza
The B-29 Memorial Plaza at the airport entrance is worth seeing up close. The arches represent the Global 20th Air Force logo.
Constructed in the 1940s, the installation honors pilots trained to fly the Superfortress bombers and the B-29’s support staff.
PRO TIP: Looking up inside the memorial’s center reveals a design resembling the nose of the bomber. A look down reveals the names of individuals imprinted on red bricks, a nod to those who contributed to the bombers’ success in the skies.
Exhibitors & Food Trucks
We toured exhibitors’ booths and a half-dozen food trucks before and after the action in the sky. Not only did we chat with fellow aviation lovers, but we caught up with two of the show’s pilots who talked to us about how they prepare for the shows and execute the maneuvers.
PRO TIP: Bring a lawn chair to position it where you’d prefer to watch the show. Keep in mind some vendors only accept cash. Parking is free.
SAVORING DINING AND DRINKS
Great Bend is home to numerous locally-owned restaurants serving diners Midwest comfort food and flavorful Mexican dishes.
HandleBar and Grill
At HandleBar and Grill (807 10th Street), the atmosphere is like a laid-back sports bar but decorated with motorcycle-themed decor. Patrons are locals who know one another as they walk in the door.
I ordered a single Build Your Own Burger with cheddar cheese and delicious homemade potato chips. The Philly sandwich arrived stuffed with sauteéd mushrooms, peppers, and onions with melted Swiss cheese on a hoagie roll.
PRO TIP: Order your meal when you put in your drink order to accommodate a busy dining room. Prepare to spend more if you order side sauces like au jus or ranch dressing.
Los Cabos Fajita House
Dinner platters arrive sizzling hot at Los Cabos Fajitas House (619 Main Street), a restaurant known for its multi-page menu featuring tacos, burritos, and, of course, fajitas.
The well-designed restaurant’s dining room transports you to Mexico, and the bar area, complete with televisions, is the ideal place to watch the game.
I devoured a traditional chicken and chorizo entreé with savory beans, rice, and warm tortillas. After a visit to the Salsa Bar, I topped each bite with a creamy avocado salsa for added heat.
If you love enchiladas or burritos, you have a variety to choose from, and the steak burrito covered with white queso is worth ordering.
PRO TIP: Visit the restaurant on Taco Tuesday for $2 tacos with your choice of six meats.
Mary’s Kitchen
In our quest to discover the best Mexican food in Great Bend, we dined at Mary’s Kitchen (2416 10th Street). The small, unassuming building welcomes a steady flow of regular customers six days a week.
The smell of carne asada permeated the air as we ordered street tacos and burritos for an early lunch. Sitting at one of a few booths, we sipped bottled drinks, watching as people arrived to pick up to-go orders.
The food was crave-worthy. Mary’s Kitchen deserves its stellar online reviews.
PRO TIP: Buy extra breakfast burritos to go. You won’t find many locally-owned restaurants serving breakfast on Sunday.
Dry Lake Brewing
There may be more than one watering hole in town, but Dry Lake Brewing (1305 Main) has got to be the best for its ambiance, full bar, and food trucks.
I’ve drank craft beer at over 30 Kansas breweries, and this one is easily one of my favorites for its beer quality and selection. The staff, who took time to get to know us, was friendly and attentive.
We loved our experience so much on Friday night that we returned to celebrate Oktoberfest on Saturday, which included a laugh-inducing stein-holding competition. (If you don’t drink beer, Dry Lake Brewing serves seltzers and signature cocktails and can make just about any drink from its full bar.)
Lazy Bacon BBQ
We ordered dinner from Lazy Bacon BBQ, a visiting food truck from McPherson, Kansas, on Friday night. We chowed down on layered barbecue pork nachos topped with spicy jalepeños between sips of beer. We ate every bite.
PRO TIP: Lazy Bacon BBQ makes regular appearances in Great Bend. Check its Facebook page to view its schedule.
The Spread Catering
We ordered dinner from The Spread Catering, a food truck from Ellinwood, Kansas, which served Oktoberfest-themed food on Saturday night.
The soft pretzels with tangy mustard hit the spot, but the loaded sausage sandwich with bacon, chutney, and dripping cheese wowed us beyond belief.
PRO TIP: Refer to The Spread Catering’s Facebook page to find out when they’re serving in Great Bend.
SHOPPING LIKE A LOCAL
Use this list of must-visit stores to map a driving route in and around downtown.
High Call Outfitters
High Call Outfitters (4100 10th Street) is a hidden gem. The apparel shop specializes in on-trend western and business casual apparel for men and women. Children’s clothes and shoes are available in the back room.
The store carries brands including Pendleton, Liverpool, and Wrangler. If you’re in a rush to find a comfortable pair of jeans or a shirt for a last-minute date night, you’ll find it here.
Aside from shoes, leather handbags, and hats, their inventory of women’s jewelry impressed me. Ask to try on a turquoise necklace or ring from inside the Southwest jewelry case.
Rosewood Wine Cellar
Nestled in the heart of downtown, Rosewood Wine Cellar ( 1901 Lakin Avenue) is a shop I’ve repeatedly visited to sample wine and shop its vast selection of jarred gourmet foods and home decor gifts. I guarantee you won’t walk away empty-handed.
Mosey to the rear of the store to the wine-tasting counter to enjoy free samples of one or more varietals produced and bottled locally.
Rosewood Creations, including the winery at Rosewood Ranch, provides employment opportunities to people with developmental disabilities. You pay it forward with every purchase.
Known for its therapeutic horse-riding program, Rosewood names each wine varietal after one of the horses. From dry to sweet wine, we loved the Smooth Movin Sheik Malbec enough to purchase a bottle.
PRO TIP: Call ahead to schedule a tour of the off-site winery.
Heart of Kansas Mercantile / Miss Pretty Pickles
Heart of Kansas Mercantile / Miss Pretty Pickles (1212 Main Street) is one of those stores that makes you pull out your wallet within minutes because there is always something worth purchasing for yourself or as a gift for someone else.
The shop’s owner stocks various Kansas-made products, including souvenir gifts for travelers seeking a sunflower or Wizard of Oz trinket. However, I spend the most time perusing the shelves in the back of the store shopping for jarred condiments of dip mixes – samples available
The other side of the store is devoted to selling women’s apparel and jewelry. Look for the clearance shelves for deep discounted finds.
Rosewood Bargain Barn
At Rosewood Bargain Barn (1215 Main Street), profits from each purchase of the non-profit business support the needs of Rosewood’s developmentally disabled employees. Consider it shopping for a greater purpose.
The store has a decent selection of gently used furniture. On the day of my visit, the bulk of the inventory consisted of glassware and dinnerware. I scored a CorningWare serving dish for $12 in its original box.
If you’re shopping for a gift, consider purchasing Blind Date With a Book (mystery title!) or one of the many screen-printed graphic t-shirts available.
Refined Medley
I’m so glad I found Refined Medley (1601 Kansas Avenue), a unique gift boutique adjacent to Main Street. Inside, I discovered endless shelves displaying seasonal decorations with hallways leading to more inventory.
The best part? A massive indoor enclosed patio at the rear of the store is home to new and antique must-have gifts ranging from garden displays to signage with messaging. Refined Medley sells an assortment of great finds hand-selected by its owner, and I’ll cherish the seasonal decor I purchased.
PRO TIP: Check the Facebook page for sales events.
BONUS MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Mural and Sculpture Walk
Great Bend is a town that celebrates the arts. Its downtown corridor is home to numerous hand-painted murals and sculpture installations. Whether you’re strolling downtown to shop or driving through on your way to an event, you’ll see overside vibrant murals around every corner.
I spotted two new-to-me oversized creations, which prompted me to get out of my car for a closer look at “Leave a Legacy” by artist Melanie Ryan (1307 Lakin Avenue) and a Kansas-themed mural by artist Brady Scott at 1125 Williams Street.
Other artistic creations in the downtown area include painted boxes with varying whimsical designs.
Not to be missed is the awe-inspiring bronze statue of Jack Kilby in front of the Barton County Courthouse, “The Gift,” by local artist Chet Cale (1400 Main Street). It depicts the microchip inventor, a man who grew up in Great Bend, transmitting knowledge from one generation to the next.
Another sculpture installation, “Remember When,” donated by Tommy Hammond, is located at Rosewood Furniture Gallery (1607 Main Street). It features four aging men of distinctive character looking forward to a vision of their youth.
Veteran’s Memorial Park Disc Golf
In my travels across Kansas, I’ve seen many city parks, and Great Bend’s Veteran’s Memorial Park (17th and McKinley Streets) is at the top of the list for its offerings, which include a disc golf course.
The moderately challenging course is designed among beautiful trees of nearly every variety. Concrete tee pads and highly visible red baskets make it idyllic for a round of 18 holes.
Due to the 12-acre lake, novice players will find a couple of holes challenging, so I recommend they pack a retriever or floating disc.
As mentioned, the park is home to native and non-native trees to pay homage to the Battle of Argonne Forest. If you walk the paved sidewalk through the park, note signs near trees explaining the variety.
Bonus reasons to spend time at Veteran’s Memorial Park include the Kiwanis Club Fitness Trail, new playground equipment areas, tennis courts, ballparks, and sand volleyball.
PRO TIP: Spend a few minutes admiring the restored tanks at the park’s entrance, which are displayed beyond a row of flagpoles.
Kansas Wetlands Education Center & Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve
As an avid bird watcher, I finally got the chance to explore the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and drive through Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve (592 NE K-156 Highway) on the outskirts of Great Bend.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism, the education center is a must-stop for nature lovers who want to learn how the state’s ecosystems evolved from the days of its earliest inhabitants to today.
An illuminated floor display and tactile exhibits made the self-guided tour engaging and one that kids would certainly appreciate. We especially enjoyed viewing snakes, rodents, and fish in the classroom’s aquariums.
Before returning to the car to drive the Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve and admire birds, we learned more about the recently spotted waterfowl in the area.
Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve is a birder’s paradise offering glimpses of migratory waterfowl and shorebirds. Before embarking on our trek, a helpful staff member provided a handheld map, which came in handy navigating the acreage.
As we meandered dirt roads on a portion of the 41,000 acres, we spotted a half dozen bird varieties and picturesque views of the Kansas scenery. You’ll love this free outdoor activity.
PRO TIP: Bring binoculars. Optimal bird-watching takes places during migratory season.
Brit Spaugh Zoo
Another free attraction worth exploring is the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo (2123 Main Street), a personal favorite of mine. The wildlife habitats are impressive for a small town zoo, and I easily spend at least a half hour tour its indoor raptor center.
Outdoor and Indoor Habitats
As you walk from one habitat animal habitat to another, the sights and sounds of wildlife come alive.
During our Sunday visit on a cool fall morning, exotic birds mimicked our whistle calls, a grizzly bear used its claws to expose soil in search of grub worms, and a female lion tracked our steps from a raised platform.
Wild birds escorted us, including swans, ducks, and a peacock from habitat to habitat. Periodically, we stopped to take photos at interactive photo displays and bronze sculptures.
For a truly immersive zoo visit, I recommend an animal encounter session led by a zoo keeper, reservable in advance.
Would you feed a bear if you could? During a previous visit to the zoo, I used a life-size slingshot to heave apples into the grizzly bears’ den, an opportunity that allows you to interact safely with wildlife. Watching the bears respond to hand signals is something I’ll never forget.
You can also opt for a behind-the-scenes tour led by a zookeeper who explains each animal’s story and daily behavior.
PRO TIP: Bring cash for a donation in lieu of admission, if you wish. The zoo’s retail store is stocked with keepsakes ideal for the youngest animal lovers.
ENJOYING A GOOD NIGHT’S REST
Vacation Rental: American Bungalow
If given the chance, I prefer to stay overnight at a vacation rental property for privacy, extra space, and desired amenities. I reserved American Bungalow, a two-bedroom, one-bath home via Airbnb before our trip, which I would recommend for couples or solo travelers.
The renovated 1950s-era single-family home sleeps four guests and features a queen bed and two twin beds. The highly rated vacation rental, outfitted with traditional-style furniture, is designed with a patriotic theme.
Wood floors creaked underfoot as we toured the home after self check-in (4:00pm). The home was meticulously clean and each room was designed for a comfortable stay with extra blankets, alarm clocks, and charging stations.
We avoided cooking a meal or grilling outside to prevent clean-up, however, I used a Keurig coffee machine and supplied coffee daily.
Curtains and blinds darkened the bedrooms during sleep hours and individual air conditioning units kept each space a comfortable temperature.
The bathroom is small, but the shower is spacious. I wouldn’t consider the bathroom or the home’s entry doors ADA-compliant, so keep that in mind if your stay requires it.
Although the home doesn’t allow pets, the fenced backyard is a decent size and includes a quaint patio seating area and Blackstone Grill.
Overall, we enjoyed the home’s coziness and its close proximity to the zoo and downtown Great Bend. We encountered some difficulty entering using the keyless entry pad’s code despite watching the provided YouTube video instructions. After a few attempts, our host simplified the process, making entry a breeze thereafter.
REMINDER: The provided house manual emphasizes the house rules and clean-up tasks, which you should adhere closely to avoid added fees.
MORE THINGS TO DO IN GREAT BEND
Since you’re seeking fun things to explore and places to dine in town, please also read my previous blog post, A Guide to Great Bend’s Go-To Places. You’ll discover more family-friendly activities and restaurants, plus a summer festival you must attend.
Nearby towns Ellinwood (home of the underground tunnels) and Ellsworth County are suggestible day trips worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.
Great Bend is a charming, friendly town worth visiting whether you build your weekend itinerary around an event like the airshow or stop at points of interest during a day trip.
I chatted with an employee who told me about her quilting journey, and she pointed out the variety of fabrics in the store. Open five days a week, the shop regularly runs a sale. On the day of my visit, the west wall of fabric was marked down 15 percent.
PRO TIP: 
Aside from offering long-arm quilting services and classes, shoppers will be delighted to discover kits, fabric, batting, notions, thread, and patterns available for purchase.
Consider Eclectic Threads Quilting Studio a hub for quilters of all skill levels who want to bring their creations to life.
The customer service was genuine and helpful during my visit. Employees, who are experienced quilters, are eager to swap project stories or assist shoppers of all quilting experience levels.
Having visited several quilt shops across Kansas, I was impressed by the staff’s knowledge of on-trend designs and how to teach others the techniques for every kind of quilt.
PRO TIP: The Seneca Sampler Quilt Mural (425 Main Street) is the most vibrant and colorful one in town. Seneca native Ellie Haynie painted a collection of quilt blocks, each submitted with a donation by community members.
In business for almost three decades, they carry over 6,000 bolts of fabric (check out their 
Known for carrying a large selection of cotton fabric, notions, and floss, it’s one-stop shopping. Beginners and veteran quilters can take advantage of on-site classes.
PRO TIP: Walk down to The Great Hall of Quilts to see handcrafted masterpieces.
Quilters, who often seek out retreat spaces in groups, will appreciate The Creative Place’s sleeping quarters, which include a full kitchen (bring your recipes!), two full baths, and individual lockers.
Attend one of The Creative Place’s 
I discover far more than expected. Quilt Town USA is home to 16 quilt shops and multiple vibrant murals depicting quilts. A tea shop, café, restaurants, and more line Hamilton’s Main Street, making it the ultimate destination for a day trip.
PRO TIP: Check out 
You can count on five rotating Now Showing galleries, and their inventory of acquisitions is the largest in the public collection in the world, so exhibitions of regularly rotated.
Have you seen miniature quilts? Viewed a 3-D quilt? See them and more at the annual Airing of the Quilts, a massive collection on exhibit every September.
On the day of my visit, I voted for my favorite quilt, a 3-D pattern, from the collection “Welcome Home: A Celebration of Quilts.” It was interesting to look closely at the handiwork of quilts dating back to the 1850s. The museum installs new 
During my return trip to Leavenworth, I was eager to take in places I had yet to discover and revisit old gems.
PRO TIP: The Burr-ow, a backroom space dedicated to reading or board gaming, is a quiet spot to work.
It’s a scenic area worth exploring for its birdwatching and native treelined grounds. The path lies parallel to an active Union Pacific railway, a nod to the town’s railroad era that replaced the Missouri River’s steamboat industry.
They recorded detailed notes about the region’s landscape for President Thomas Jefferson noting what people could expect heading west. Signage overlooking the river at 2nd and Dakota Street recognizes their visit to the area.
It’s the tucked-away murals that excite me the most. Keep your eyes peeled for smaller paintings on doors on various buildings downtown.
I dined on deviled eggs with bacon and a chicken cobb salad to the beat of Jamaican music while watching hosta leaves sway.
Between sips of iced tea, I noticed the hostess lead lunchtime diners to patio tables to enjoy the scenery, which resembled a nicely designed backyard landscape.
If you love old collectibles, you could spend hours perusing the mall while listening to oldies music play overhead. The friendly employee at the front desk is happy to answer questions about refurbishing relics.
Of course, you can always spot something delightful for the home when you’re ready to swap out your seasonal decor. From garden flags to great-smelling candles, CJ Gift Co. satisfies shoppers on a mission to beautify their space.
Expecting parents and grandparents will appreciate the owner’s selection of kid-loving plush toys. Seasonal items, bath products, and top-selling Leavenworth t-shirts round-out the front-of-store inventory.
PRO TIP: The store is also home to 5th Avenue Frames. Ask them to custom frame artwork, photography, or prints.
Consider creating a gift basket for someone while shopping for yourself. Whether one loves hot tea or cold brew, Queen’s Pantry Teas is the place to shop.
The owner, who was busily crafting jewelry in a studio, greeted me, as did her helpful staff. I perused the store, admiring an endless boho chic apparel and jewelry inventory.
The owners, a mother-daughter duo, carry the latest fashions for the season on display at the front of the store.
If the thought of enjoying the salty goodness of popcorn with the sweet flavor of your favorite candy bar excites you, stop by Popcorn Pit Stop for a grab-and-go bag.
Peruse the outdoor garden houses to shop for plants and flowering hanging baskets before entering inside the store for refrigerated food items. Travelers without coolers will appreciate jarred foods and bagged dry goods.
The sounds of Space Invaders and Mortal Kombat resonate through the arcade, open Thursday-Saturday. It’s an excellent place for all ages to enjoy indoor entertainment in a nostalgic setting.
The reservation-required dinner and a show were entertaining, and the best part of the evening was getting to know the guests at our shared table, who welcomed me like new friends. Three hours of fun flew by.
My King Suite home-life feel helped me unwind after a fun day of exploring. In the morning, I checked emails on my laptop using high-speed internet from a in-room workstation before enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast in the lobby.
Shop Moon Marble Company’s retail for assorted marbles, nostalgic toys, and games. Staff is eager to explain how to play marbles, if you want to buy a set.
I was impressed with the large turnout and visited with audience members between songs, making for a delightful experience.
I’ve raved about Quentin BBQ’s menu since I discovered their food truck in the 
Additionally, the on-site art gallery showcases the Harvest Queen mural by George Melville Stone. A walk outdoors to Farm Town USA is fun for young kids who can participate in 
The baked bread and fruit pies are irresistible, and you can expect produce twice the size of grocery store varieties sold at reasonable prices. I made two purchases and a new friend within 15 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful, prism-cut crystal for your home or a tumble stone for a friend, you’ll find it here. I enjoyed visiting with the owner, who is passionate about stone hunting and is quick to recommend the best stone for each person.
For what the store lacks in size, it makes up for in inventory volume, catering to shoppers seeking a casual or semi-dressy outfit for a same-day event or date night. Shop near the register for make-up and small gift items.
The owner and creator, Valerie, sews on patches and appliques to reimagined denim jeans, jackets, and overalls. Fabric swatches are sewn together to create one-of-a-kind apparel like the dress pictured above. Shop from available inventory or place an order for pick-up.
I wasn’t leaving without trying beef lasagna and garlic toast (the “light portion” is pictured below) with a small garden salad. The marinara sauce was so tasty that I used the bread to mop up every last bite.
The Northeast Kansas town of slightly over 2,000 people is one you’ll wish you visited sooner. The perfect girl’s getaway, thanks to its plethora of downtown shops, it also caters to every kind of traveler.
Inventory includes recognizable brands such as Swan Creek Candles and Mudpie. Also offering custom picture framing, Leah stays busy with custom orders and bridal registry fulfillment.
The inventory includes a range of gifts for men, graduates, and decorations for your home’s seasonal switchover.
Celebrating 60 years in business, the family-owned and operated store provides courteous service. They quickly ask what you need and walk you to the item. My purchase? A rain gauge, which I couldn’t find for sale at other stores earlier in the week.
Seneca Variety
PRO TIP: Don’t miss shopping the Discount Wall. I spotted holiday decorations marked down 40 percent.
Seneca is a multi-denominational community, and Uniquely Gifted’s inventory reflects faith-based values, particularly Catholic ones.
The owner, who has a degree in apparel merchandise, does an impressive job of carrying on-trend brands and everyday apparel necessities. Racks and tables display primarily women’s apparel, but men’s clothing and children’s shoes are well-stocked.
Order a healthy protein shake or tea at the store’s beverage counter, 
If you choose a graphic design from the templates book, staff can usually print your shirt the same day. And if you’re a K-State fan, this shop carries the most extensive collection of collegiate wear in town.
The owner carries recognizable brand names, including Ashley Furniture, La-Z-Boy, and Sealy, and the showroom includes outdoor patio sets as well.
The hardware store, run by the owner’s family for generations, maintains its architectural charm. Painted ghost signs on the wall, original shelving, and framed black and white photographs over the register are a glimpse into its past.
The owner gets up early daily to make various bars and donuts – apple fritters sell quickly. Diners with gluten-free dietary needs will appreciate crustless quiche, energy balls, and muffins.
My ham and cheese breakfast cheese made with flaky crust was the real deal. It paired well with a Mixed Up real fruit smoothie prepared with strawberries, pineapple, mango, and peaches.
I watched from the bar as the waitstaff greeted regular customers with their usual drinks, often predicting what they wanted to order for lunch. The day’s special, a Philly cheese sandwich, sold out before 1:00 p.m.
Not only did a downtown shop owner tell me I should order the sausage and kraut pizza, but my server, Kim, admitted it was one of her favorite meals. My medium pizza arrived piping hot, covered in savory toppings and stretchy cheese. I savored two slices before taking the rest home.
I chose a table at the clubhouse restaurant amongst golfers and locals on lunch dates. The menu, consisting of appetizers, sandwedges, and fried food baskets, was extensive given the size of the restaurant. The Hole In One quesadilla prepared with grilled chicken was fulfilling and worthy of a repeat order.
Over the years, the buildings’ owners have worked long hours preserving its wood floors and stained glass arched windows to create an inviting space.
I chatted with the owner, who showed me before and after photos of the building’s renovations. A Seneca resident introduced himself and told me stories of his past while he ate a cinnamon roll and sipped coffee. Cornerstone CoffeeHaus is a delightful stop.
As you walk upon the building’s original wood floors, explore a makeshift saloon, a replica schoolroom, and original artifacts for the Smith Hotel, a refuge for riders needing a break.
PRO TIP: The museum is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 pm. To guarantee a tour, call (785) 294-6655 to schedule an appointment.
The 
The museum is small but well-organized, and it includes fire station relics unique to its location.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss viewing the model building’s layout, a tribute to Seneca’s days gone by.
You’ll see graphic panels on points of interest along Main Street, each providing context to the building’s history.
The well is 34 feet wide by 65 feet deep, and the original pump remains on top of a service platform. Tours are available from May through October by calling the 
I was impressed with the accommodations, so I immediately called home to tell others about them. The owners did a meticulous job restoring the two-story space, which includes original wood floors and crown molding, and each room contains framed antique photographs of downtown Seneca.
Guests climb a tall set of stairs using a self-entry keypad entrance before entering the loft’s entrance. A modernized, open kitchen/living concept includes tall windows facing Main Street. A full-size laundry room with supplies is located off the kitchen.
I had my choice of two large bedrooms and settled on the one pictured below, featuring a queen bed with jersey-knit duvet bedding. Each bedroom included a dresser drawer for personal items and a flatscreen Roku TV.
After a full day of exploring and shopping downtown boutiques, I spent the evening unwinding in one of the living room’s leather recliners with a glass of rosé wine.
The following day, I watched the sunrise from one of the swivel window seats pictured above with a tall mug of complimentary coffee. As traffic on Main Street increased, I felt sad knowing I had to check out of my Airbnb and say goodbye to Seneca.
I was the second customer of the day after Korean Garden opened its doors for the day, and a Korean woman behind the counter was taking to-go orders by phone and hurriedly packaging styrofoam containers. The grill sizzled in the kitchen as I placed my order, and she ushered me to my appointed table.
PRO TIP: You must order from the dinner entree menu on Saturdays. Bento Boxes are available during the week. Expect a $10 minimum purchase for credit card orders.
PRO TIP: 
For 20 minutes, I watched Fast & Furious from a nearby television while sipping a sweet Jamaican bottled soda. Then, the colorful seafood dish served with pickled cabbage and rice was delivered to my table by the owner.
PRO TIP: Strike up a conversation with the owner. Her love of Junction City is infectious, and her business story is admirable.
Rather than ordering a large entree, I opted for Veg Samosas, a fried pastry stuffed with diced potatoes, seasonings, and peas served with a thin yogurt-based sauce. Each deep-fried bite was piping hot, delivering a mild flavor. Two samosas per order are a light lunch, but you’d want to order more food for a substantial meal.
PRO TIP: 
After ordering at the counter, I sat listening to soul music play from a speaker in the dining room where families and downtown workers enjoyed lunch. A buzz with activity near the door, a steady stream of locals arrived to order to-go meals.
I ate every bite of my overflowing, messy hot dog. The sausage snapped with every bite, just as one would expect from an authentic Chicago hot dog.
Known for signature pizzas like Pesto Chicken and Flint Hills Burn, Mill Pizza serves a hearty, flavorful salad. I enjoyed each bite between sips of my beer while listening to patrons at neighboring barstools discuss their work day.
I was the only customer until more people arrived around 8:00 pm. My impression was that the lounge is known for serving a late-night, adult crowd, a sentiment the staff confirmed.
I was offered tastings of any ice cream and ultimately decided on Brown Sugar Maple in a small cup. 
I devoured avocado toast between sips of Reverie Coffee Roasters drip coffee by the fireplace. I recommend the scratch-made breakfast to anyone seeking a healthier meal option.
Amongst cutting boards and kitchenware, the store displays Finch + Fennel pantry staples. The jarred condiments, seasoning blends, and bottled barbecue sauces designed to make cooking at home effortless and enjoyable.
During my second visit to the center, I paused to admire the rehabilitated birds of prey housed outside before trekking the trail. 
Once on the trail, walkers gain access to an open-air pathway leading to learning stations. The information plaques detail types of wildlife and teach onlookers what to watch for during their hike.
PRO TIP: After exploring the Tallgrass Trail, spend a few minutes inside Milford Nature Center (donations encouraged). The education center consists of live animal exhibits, such as snakes, prairie dogs, lizards, and more.
A new art installation, JC Statues, continues to tell the story of the town’s history and its residents. Each one is painted by an individual artist, unveiling a theme represented by symbols and paint colors.
Museum staff and volunteers created three floors of thematic exhibits with relics of the county’s past to convey the story of Geary County.
They designed each exhibit a full sensory experience. You hear the sound of the locomotive pulling into station. Sniff History stations make a self-guided tour an immersive experience, and flip-to-learn-more installments test one’s knowledge of pioneer life.
PRO TIP: If you want to tour 
