Updated August 2025
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Salina and its partners; however, all opinions and photos are mine.
In Salina, Kansas, immersive adventures provide travelers with unforgettable experiences. Like me, you’d instead pick the grapes before drinking the wine or create art rather than admire it. Take your pick from many hands-on activities, from creating artwork to feeding wildlife.
OBSERVE WILDLIFE IN ACTION AT ROLLING HILLS ZOO
Rolling Hills Zoo (625 N. Hedville Rd.), which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, is a place I always look forward to visiting. During a recent tour of the zoo, I was invited to observe zookeepers’ training demonstration with a sloth and a lion giving me face-to-face encounters with wildlife.
Keeper Encounters and Keeper Chats offer visitors access to animals in a way they may never have experienced. You’re in luck if you come upon one taking place. Attending one of the zoo’s events, like Safari Breakfast with an animal species, offers an exclusive glimpse of animals during the early morning hours.
Morning is the best time to visit the zoo for several reasons. The animals tend to be more active during morning feeding sessions, and if visiting during the summer, it’s cooler outside and more comfortable.
Special events such as the Party for the Planet on Earth Day raise awareness about global challenges and their effect on animals. During these events, visitors can also expect to witness Keeper Encounters.
The zoo has done quite a bit of renovating and adding animal species since my earlier visit. Its size and variety of animals are impressive, and as an AZA-accredited zoo, its dedication to wildlife conservation and education is evident.
As you traverse the zoo, you’ll observe birds, primates, big cats, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The zoo’s renovations of exhibits makes it easier to observe wildlife.
PRO TIP: Plan for at least two hours to properly tour the zoo, and give yourself enough time also tour its indoor Wildlife Museum filled with taxidermy dioramas complete with animal noises.
PERFECT YOUR SWING AT CLUBHOUSE GOLF
Clubhouse Golf (117B N. Santa Fe) is one of the latest additions to Salina offering visitors a chance to practice their golf game via Foresight indoor simulator. Take it from me, an ex-high school golfer who never plays anymore: you don’t have to be a golf pro to enjoy swinging the club.
Open to the public, one can reserve one of four spacious golf bays by the hour. The simulator provides digital feedback for each swing as one practice at the driving range, the putting green or plays an 18-hole course.
I appreciated the detailed feedback, including the club face angle, stroke speed, and the ball’s trajectory. The ForeSight technology offers users various golf courses to select from, plus families with kids love its carnival game option.
PRO TIP: Bring your clubs. And if you want to enjoy food or drink during an adults-only golf session, order at Spicoli’s Toasted Subs bar next door and bring your snacks and beverages. Consider ordering the cocktail, Sand Trap.
GET CREATIVE AT SALINA ART CENTER WAREHOUSE
The hands-on fun continues at Salina Art Center Warehouse (149 S. 4th St.), where instructors teach classes on various art mediums to all ages.
Artists can reserve a day pass to gain unlimited access to the warehouse’s equipment during open studio hours. Summer is a busy time for the studio when about a dozen instructors teach classes. Are you interested in painting, ceramics or paper crafts? They have a class for it.
My instructor, Darren, taught me the step-by-step process of making a linocut drawing using a provided pattern. Admittedly, I wasn’t the best at carving intricate lines into the linoleum square (it’s more difficult than it looks!), but he patiently talked me through the process until it was ready for inking and rolling through the press.
PRO TIP: Follow the Facebook page for class announcements.
WATCH AN INDEPENDENT FILM AT SALINA ART CENTER CINEMA
When was the last time you watched an independent movie screening? Surround yourself with audio and visuals during a film screen at Salina Art Center Cinema (150 S. Santa Fe.) from the comfort of a plush leather seat with popcorn in hand.
I watched Problemista, a film about a mild-mannered young man working toward getting a VISA who encounters many people, making his journey challenging. The film included fantastical scenes and real-life scenarios written for an adult audience.
PRO TIP: The renovated, one-theater movie house regularly updates its movie screenings, so check its Facebook page for Now Showing titles.
TAKE AN EVENING STROLL ON SANTA FE AVENUE
The Downtown Arts and Entertainment District is a pedestrian-friendly corridor that takes on a new look as the sun sets. Enhanced streetscapes include ornate benches, planters with flowers, and mid-block crosswalks leading to public art sculptures.
The heart of the community transforms after sundown when neon signs glow, and overhead archways illuminate in color.
Stiefel Theatre
The crown jewel of the downtown corridor, Stiefel Theatre (151 S. Santa Fe), turns heads as the sun goes down. I saw its art deco design as the sun set, shining a golden hour glow on its tiered tower. After dark, the neon sign marquee shines brightly and is viewable for blocks along Santa Fe Avenue.
Constructed in the 1930s, the historic building is home to a steady lineup of live performances, including the Salina Symphony.
Public Art
Salina is an art-loving community, and it shows. I encourage you to walk along Santa Fe Avenue admiring the talented work of artists. The Sculpture Tour includes over 20 public art installations that update every May. You can vote for the People’s Choice Winner during an annual Unwrap Party.
During your stroll downtown, you’ll quickly notice vibrant -olored murals peeking out from around corners and down alleyways. Each October, selected artists from across the globe converge on Salina to paint street art during the Boom! Salina Kanvas Project.
PRO TIP: Surround yourself with multiple murals by walking Artwork Alley (140 S. 5th St.) located behind Stiefel Theatre.
Crosswalk Covers
The Art Deco crosswalk covers illuminate at night. Part of the downtown revitalization project, the pedestrian crosswalks are flanked by one-of-a-kind sculptures. A portion of the project’s financing came from sales tax generated by visitors to the city’s 28-block district.
WHERE TO DINE LIKE A GRAB A BITE TO EAT
Gourmet Eats
When you’re in the mood for a breakfast or lunch made to order with fresh ingredients, I recommend dining at Gourmet Eats (115 N. Ohio St.).
I ordered a local favorite, Breakfast Panini, on buttery toasted sourdough with turkey, bacon, egg, cheese, and fresh fruit. Served with zesty sour cream, I devoured every crumb. To say it was delicious is an understatement.
I took my time enjoying breakfast in the dining room as I watched the owner, Taylor, and her staff serve breakfast to drive-up window and dine-in customers.
PRO TIP: The breakfast menu includes eight selections ranging from sandwiches to biscuits and gravy. Dining for lunch? Expect a long list of sandwiches, wraps, and South of the Border entrees.
Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro
It’s always a delightful dining experience at Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro ( 241 S. Santa Fe), and this one was no exception. The restaurant, located adjacent to Homewood Suites, draws an influx of hotel guests and locals to the bar for Happy Hour.
At my reserved seat at the bar, I had a partial view of the open kitchen. I watched as bartenders raised martini shakers in the air, presenting craft cocktails and providing an immersive experience.
Since January 2024, Chef Jeremiah Harvey has elevated the restaurant’s menu, adding daily specials to its selections. Each dining experience begins with complimentary bread and a plate of creamy baba ganoush (eggplant), a Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro tradition.
Diners can select from a full dinner menu or Build Your Own Duet ($44) served with a Greek, Caesar, or spinach salad. Although the wood-fired pizza options and baked pasta were tempting, I ultimately chose the chef’s daily special, Stuffed Sol.
PRO TIP: The couple seated next to me recommended the Roasted Free-Range Chicken or the Pork Chop served with potato purée and sautéed mushrooms, providing me yet another reason to return to Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro.
Bogey’s
After a trip to Salina, people often ask me if I stopped at Bogey’s (1417 S. 9th St.) for ice cream. It’s a Salina mainstay. The fast food restaurant serves over 100 different shake flavors, and is known for its chili cheese fries and burgers.
I watched as young employees took multiple orders before handing me a chocolate-vanilla twist ice cream cone. A visiting sports team occupied much of the dining room, so I took my sweat treat to go.
PRO TIP: No matter the hour, Bogey’s is a busy place. Consider dining outside on the patio where fewer people are seated. In a hurry? Order via the drive-thru window.
BONUS ENTERTAINING ACTIVITIES IN SALINA
The Garage
If you love cars or want to take a trip down memory lane, visit The Garage (134 S. 4th St.). Daily admission rates include a gallery of pristine rate and vintage vehicles, a driving simulator, Hot Wheels and Lego exhibits, and live demonstrations.
The museum is known for hosting thematic events featuring specific makes and models of cars. For example, events like Going Tops Down highlight convertibles, while Cars & Coffee’s theme varies monthly.
PRO TIP: Just my luck, The Garage was closed for a private event the day of my visit. Check their hours and upcoming events via Facebook before making the trip.
The Yard
If you’re traveling with the kiddos, you may want to add The Yard (138 S. 4th St.) to your weekend plans. It’s a rentable indoor/outdoor baseball complex, where non-members can sign up for 30-minute or one-hour turf time. As long as you pack your turf cleats and equipment, you’re free to use the facility.
PRO TIP: If you’re looking for a place to reserve for a group event, consider their party rental options.
LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS WORTH RESERVING
Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott (3020 Riffel Dr.) is the place to stay in Salina when you want comfortable overnight lodging in proximity to most points of interest. Having stayed there in the past, I can vouch for its cleanliness and affordable amenities.
I took advantage of free WiFi to get some work done after exploring town. In the morning, I opted to enjoy a Starbucks coffee at Bistro, the lobby restaurant, where you can also purchase breakfast or lunch menu items.
After a busy day of activities, you should unwind in the on-site hot tub or indoor pool. Check-out is at noon, but Marriott Bonvoy members may be able to request an extra hour – more time to explore Salina.
I’ve stayed at the hotel a couple of times when in town covering events and attractions. Located near the highway, it’s proximity to the mall, downtown shopping, and Rolling Hills Zoo make it recommendable hotel.
PRO TIP: Sign up for Marriott Bonvoy Benefits before booking your stay to earn points to use toward future stays. No credit card required.
MORE SALINA TRAVEL ITINERARIES
The immersive experiences don’t stop there! Watch a live performance at Salina Community Theatre, explore unique shopping and dining downtown, or peruse impressive galleries at Salina Art Center.
Less than a 1.5-hour drive from Wichita, Salina is a place I can’t resist visiting at least once a year, and each time, I find new places waiting for me to enjoy.
People who pass on the sidewalk say hello. Business owners treat you like a friend. You’ll love Salina and its immersive experiences during your visit.
The staff is eager to direct you to places to explore in the area, plus the center houses display cases showcasing the town’s history. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, West Plains is steeped in history.
I was impressed with the well-stocked inventory of regionally made products ranging from honey to home decor items.
PRO TIP: If traveling by RV, you’ll love the center’s expansive parking lot, water fill, and dump station. Visitors with dogs will love the shaded grassy areas to take a stroll.
After exploring the downtown area, we drove to spots around town, seeking out other permanent paintings.
We sipped ice-cold lattés while listening to the staff give instructions on throwing techniques and the rules of play. Despite my best efforts, the hatchets and Ninja stars I threw toppled off the target, coming to rest on the ground.
Watching others take turns throwing sharp weapons at the wood wall with better success was fun, and the coffee drinks made it a delightful experience.
One of the best parts of visiting the family-run business is their pride in selling locally sourced baked goods, coffee beans, and gifts.
PRO TIP: Look at the framed photographs on the wall for a few minutes. Each one captures historical moments when Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton visited West Plains. The building is where Wagoner launched his famous career.
As the book states, “Sometimes a bottle or flask was handed around from person to person, and some people complained about the loud, rowdy behavior exhibited by some of the dance’s inebriated patrons.”
Did a prohibitionist cause the explosion? Did J. M. Weiser, found dead behind the building with a door knob in his hand, cause the accident that killed 39 people and injured 23 others?
Photographer Joyce McMurtrey’s work “King of The Ozarks” was on display on the day of our visit. The native Missourian captured portraits of family members and neighbors of H. King Davis while interviewing them.
According to Explore West Plains, services were held in every church in town on April 19, 1928. This memorial remembers the 19 unidentified people laid to rest along with 20 identified people.
During our visit, locals gathered around the bar during Happy Hour. Nearby, a father and son played a game of pool while arcade games like Big Buck and Golden Tee flickered in the background.
Known for their wings, we shared a 5-piece basket with our choice of sauces: Thai Chili and Spicy BBQ – cooked and sauced to perfection. The Traditional Chef Salad with ham and eggs was fully loaded and crave-worthy. Our server said they are adding a salad bar.
If you order a burger, expect it to be stacked high like the West Plains Pride served on a jalapeño bun with pepper jack cheese, onion, and mango habanero sauce.
PRO TIP: Opt to sit outside on a nice weather day. They host local musicians on Saturday nights – no cover charge.
The brewery has a variety of beers for every kind of craft beer connoisseur, but for us, it was an easy choice.
To our delight, friendly locals joined us outside to raise a glass to West Plains.
The menu includes unexpected delights like homemade baked goods, avocado toast on artisan bread, and handcrafted breakfast sandwiches.
The faith-based gathering space is also a boutique that supports local makers and creators. The retail shelves ran the length of a brick-exposed wall and were piled high with irresistible merchandise from apparel to home decor.
PRO TIP: Look at the menu boards or ask a friendly barista for the day’s drink or food special.
The spring produces 6.5 million gallons of water per day, flowing beneath sandstone blocks.
The mill is closed to the public., but consider taking advantage of beautiful walking trails, putting your feet in the cold water (28 million gallons per day!), or primitive camp nearby.
PRO TIP: Park your car in the gravel lot at the base of the mill. None of the privately owned buildings are open to the public, so walking the grounds for stunning Ozark views is advisable.
Specialty sandwiches, burgers, and wraps dominate the menu. Our friendly server suggested the French Dip Sandwich and zesty Cuban sandwich, both equally scrumptious. The meat was juicy, the bread soft, and the flavor delivered.
The Brick Oven Pizza menu includes 8″ personal pizzas cooked to order if you crave something other than a sandwich.
We peered into display cases featuring military items and clothing once worn by the town’s residents. Equally interesting, old photos, newspapers, and Zizzer high school yearbooks were accessible.
You’ll see everything from vintage toys and coins to furniture and depression glass inside 22,000 square feet of retail space. I was drawn to an illuminated glass case filled with relics from the town’s past.
The signature of Elwin Charles “Preacher” Roe, a professional baseball player who retired after the 1954 season and opened a supermarket in town, was scrawled upon several artifacts. Roe played with the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Brooklyn Dodgers.
A gift-giver’s go-to shop, Country at Heart is known for its handcrafted baskets decorated for themed parties.
The specialty store carries toys, books, novelty socks, candles, and more. You’ll find it hard to resist buying a gift or candy for yourself or a friend once you walk inside.
Why buy a generic print for your home’s wall when you can purchase an exquisite painting or photograph?
Located a short walk from downtown West Plains, the gallery is a place to admire the talent of regional artists while igniting your own creativity.
The smell of leather. The overwhelming rows of boots, handbags, and accessories make HB Boot Corral the number-one place to shop for western apparel.
PRO TIP: Pack brightly colored discs should you unintentionally throw one into a tall grass, wooded area.
As we entered, the staff directed us to an available table. We chose instead to pony up to the bar, a place I prefer so we can watch the action and have a direct view of the beer taps.
We worked up an appetite while sipping on a Belgian Blonde and Marzan, eventually ordering a stone-fired meat pizza and a plate of house-smoked tri-tip steak with sides.
PRO TIP: With dozens of flavorful beers on tap, locals rave about the brewery’s cream soda and root beer ordering growlers of it to go.
I heard, “Hi honey, how are you?” upon entering the store, where I waited patiently in line to order an iced vanilla latté and breakfast quinoa protein bowl to go.
The dual-purpose space was tastefully decorated with fresh floral arrangements, holiday decorations, and grab-n-go gifts for any occasion.
Just as I was leaving to take my breakfast to the park to enjoy it, I felt a tap on the shoulder. Turning around, the owner handed me a rose.
I settled into a picnic table under a canopy of towering trees to enjoy breakfast and coffee. A couple stood at the park’s map, choosing a walking trail while birds and butterflies fluttered about.
Owned and maintained by the city, it features a wood bridge over a creek, benches for relaxation, a pavilion, a children’s play area, and a paved walking trail.
PRO TIP: The park is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Dog walkers must bring a leash.
Regina Willard is a contemporary impressionist painter who captures the natural world with every brush stroke. Her business partner, Ellen Hones Martin, is a wheel-thrower who creates unique pottery – each sells their creations at the studio.
Whether they are teaching students how to create a masterpiece or creating their own, the studio is abuzz with activity. I witnessed local shoppers in awe of for-sale artwork as the owners welcomed them to an open house party.
PRO TIP: The best resource for learning about upcoming workshops or events at the collaborative gallery and studio is to check the 
Sandwiches and quarter-pound burgers dominate the lunch menu. We couldn’t resist a Club Sandwich and Fried Bologna Sandwich that hit the spot. I hope to return again to order the infamous Chicken Fried Steak dinner.
Will you order a soda float, a cup of classic chocolate ice cream, or a shareable sundae?
I took my time gazing at the selection of ice cream flavors before settling on a classic cone of sweet and creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake. You can’t rush a good thing.
Spring Dipper is the perfect way to end a weekend in West Plains.
Before the celebration, stop by 
I hope my travel guide inspires you to explore West Plains in the heart of the Ozarks, which deserves recognition for its attractions, shopping, and dining scene.
PRO TIP: If traveling with a pet, ask the hotel staff to direct you to the pet walking area. Prepare to pay a pet deposit.
After lunch, we shopped the retail store downstairs, loading up on Sweet Corn Salsa and Maple Dip jars as well as a six-pack of Doc Otto’s Hard Cider. Customers will find it hard to resist sweet and salty bagged snacks, and the frozen pie case is irresistible. (The orchard dates back to the 1940s!)
Outdoors, the 
I appreciate the hard work and dedication that new owners Denny and Emily Stucky and their employees have put into maintaining and improving The Community Orchard, a favorite destination for locals and visitors searching for an immersive farm experience.
PRO TIP: Check for 
Anne, the winemaker, introduced us to wines we never knew we liked but most certainly loved at the Tasting Bar. Our tasting experience included a short list of dry wines, starting with Ghost Pig (Apple Cider and Rosé Wine) and ending with Marquette 2021 Limited Release (Red). She explained how she uses only Iowa grapes to produce each handcrafted wine.
After tasting six different wines, we enthusiastically raved about dry white Petite Amie 2022 (Best of Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair) and Marquette 2021 (Fruit-forward dry red). We were gleeful when she offered us a bottle of Marquette 2022 to bring back to Kansas.
After the tasting session, Anne gave us a tour of the winery’s newly expanded production facility and further explained the process of making wine from concept to harvest.
Are you interested in a tasting experience? You can walk in during tasting room hours or make an appointment. I recommend reserving a tasting if traveling with a small group. Light snacks and non-boozy drinks are available to purchase, and they welcome DoorDash food deliveries.
Created in 2015, concrete tee pads and easily recognizable holes make the course simple to navigate without using the UDisc app. If you want to play the entire course, plan for 1.5-2 hours and be prepared to walk a course mostly without shade.
Each 18-hole course provides manicured course play using rentable golf carts for golfers of all skill levels. While we didn’t have time to play a round of golf, I could easily see myself returning to Fort Dodge and carving out time to do so. Having played high school golf, the courses looked well-maintained and worth playing.
We sipped on a flight of four beers ranging from a crisp lager to a red ale. The brewery can produce 15 beers using 5 fermenters.
The size of the brewery is intentionally smaller than most, creating a setting where the community can sit down over a beer and get to know one another. The back patio features a meat smoker and grill available to patrons who want to cook dinner for themselves or friends while they sip on sids.
Check out the brewery’s 
The restaurant’s setting is unique, located inside the 
We enjoyed savory Dak-gang-jeong (fried chicken) and Mandu (dumplings) as appetizers.
A delightful evening in Fort Dodge isn’t complete without visiting The 
The Freedom Rock pictured above is dedicated to veterans suffering from the after-effects of service, like PTSD and mental illness. The front side of the mural rock honors two local aviators and medal recipients who both graduated from Fort Dodge High School
The state’s largest mural, it depicts Fort Dodge residents who contributed to the community. Do you see the man holding the ornate bowl? The town’s pottery industry is represented by this scene.
While admiring another downtown mural, I accidentally discovered The Starry Night (Central Ave. and South 9th St.) painted by Iowa Central Community College students.
No matter where you are in town, you’re bound to see a mural in the distance, whether it’s under a bridge like the one pictured below or in town visible to passersby.
Click 
If pizza isn’t your go-to at lunchtime, the brewery also serves specialty and build-you-own sandwiches with chips. Seven macaroni and cheese bowls appear on the menu.
If you go, flights of four 5-ounce beer samples are $12. Not a beer drinker? Opt to view the cocktails, wine, and Moscow mules menu instead.
PRO TIP: Dining with four people? Ask about the Big A$$ Mule, a 192-ounce Moscow Mule served in a monstrous mug.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time in our itinerary to sit down and create a piece, but I did chat with the owner and several women who were busy creating new glass projects.
They told me how they meet there once a week to chat about their lives and bond while creating art. Soon, they grabbed their phones to show me photos of past projects completed for friends and family. What started as something fun to do became a love affair producing fused glass.
You don’t need an appointment to work at the studio, but if you’re traveling with several people, you should call to reserve seating.
PRO TIP: If you want to take a structured class to create a holiday project. check the 
Beyond the home showroom, women’s apparel racks displayed the latest fashions in the season’s popular colors. Tunics, pants, shorts, and accessories make shopping at The Apple Attic worthwhile.
Located on the 
With an ever-changing display of works from their 1,200 permanent collection, you will see something new each time you visit. The museum hosts a visiting artist every three months.
PRO TIP: Admire the black and white photography on the walls highlighting the day Senator John F. Kennedy visited Fort Dodge before speaking at an airport rally in 1960. You’ll appreciate learning the story Olde Dog and a Massachusetts town that inspired the restaurant’s name 
Decidedly stuffed from my dinner meal, I choose a small dish of classic vanilla soft serve with rainbow sprinkles. Couples approached the walk-up window, ready to order, as I watched car after car enter the drive-thru.
A popular stop for locals near downtown, Snack Shack reminds me of a hangout you’d see in a 1950s movie. The community loves to gather at the colorful tables outside to gab about local happenings between bites of ice cream.
Known for their scratch-made scones, Andy Mae Coffee and Desserts has a loyal following that often tracks down their food truck when it shows up at community events.
I encourage you to walk inside the original Harcourt City Jail, where town drunks, thieves, and outlaws were once taken. Tour the Border Plains School, one of the oldest school buildings in Webster County, to imagine life as a student from 1857-1959.
Tour the inside of the Carlson-Richey Log Home from 1855 to smell the musty wood planks and admire the handiwork of the log home’s builder.
We appreciated the historic details inside a blacksmith shop, drugstore, carriage repair shop, and wood shop. I recommend spending about an hour exploring all the buildings on a cool weather day.
Other nearby buildings house actual artifacts curated from the area that documents one of Iowa’s most valuable resources, gypsum. Early settlers mined the mineral in and around Fort Dodge. Now, the chalky material is used to make wallboard, and Fort Dodge contributes nearly 75% of the state’s gypsum production.
Other displays house Native American arrowheads, beadwork, and clothing. Nearby, military uniforms and weaponry tell the story of those who fortified Fort Dodge.
When visiting Blanden Art Museum, you will be in the 
My sense of wanderlust is strong, and I typically have a fun travel experience wherever I travel. Yet something about Fort Dodge, my first Iowa travel experience, stays with me. It’s a feeling of contentment and longing to return.
Trendy go-to places such as 
Take a self-guided tour inside its galleries to admire throughout-provoking pieces by artists ranging from Georgia O’Keefe and Andy Warhol. Outdoors, paved trails wind through 120 acres of Ozark forest with permanent pubic artwork tucked amongst the trees. Keep a keen eye out for architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright and Safdie; their buildings seamlessly blend into the setting.
After your tour, savor a glass of wine or plate of delectable eats with a view at 
Lounging with friends at
Remember that The Momentary is within walking distance of 
Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the glass-covered displays housing original products, and kids can submit a completed scavenger hunt for prizes. I recommend spending 15 minutes viewing an AI-powered life-sized hologram of founder Sam Walton who recounts his childhood and philosophy on business.
Located at the Bentonville Municipal Airport, Thaden Field honors the contribution of female aviator Louise Thaden, the first woman to win a National Air Race. Thaden was born in Bentonville and broke barriers for women in the industry, holding records for altitude, solo endurance, and speed.
The modern design includes outdoor play areas for kids and a retail area stocked with aviation-themed gifts. Photo-worthy backdrops on each level invite visitors to snap selfies.
Born in Arkansas in 1932, Johnny Cash is one of several legendary Arkansas musicians depicted in downtown Bentonville’s alley artwork. If traveling with kids, take them to 
Seat yourself at the bar for Happy Hour on Monday-Wednesday from 3 pm-6 pm when you see $2 on wine and draft beer. Choose from a short list of margaritas, which are only $5.
Are you visiting with a small group? Reserve the swanky, pink-covered bank vault for an unforgettable experience with reserved seating.
I enjoyed Space Goose Hazy IPA enough to purchase a six-pack of to-go cans. I regret that we had already eaten lunch; otherwise, 
I hope this list of fun things to do in Bentonville inspires a road trip. If you travel from Kansas to Northwest Arkansas along Hwy 400, I’ve also written about 
Disc golf is a popular sport for outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas, and 
Have you heard of geocaching? A treasure hunt using an app to locate a hidden container lets participants enjoy a free outdoor activity at various locations in Lindsborg. To start, visit 
BONUS: Before departing from the historic site area, look across the street at the mural, “First Kansas Colored Infantry” painted by artist Cbabi Bayoc in 2023. Click 
A major fan of his work and a previous photography teacher, I was elated to tour the museum to glimpse Parks’ cameras, his framed photography, and to view a replica of Park’s New York City apartment.
Our group was fortunate enough to have a guided tour by the museum’s director, who informed us about the international impact Parks’ work as a photographer had, but also as a filmmaker, writer, and musician. Parks taught himself how to do it all.
Later, we went on a special guided 
Born in Fort Scott, he lived in the Kansas town for the first 16 years of his life only to return later to document the town in a photo essay. He filmed scenes for his movie The Learning Tree at Gunn Park, which was also included in our tour. He wrote the screenplay, directed, acted, produced and wrote the musical score for the semi-autobiographical film.
Another stop of our tour took us to a mural depicting Parks painted by artist Cbabi Bayoc. Located at 18 E. Wall Street, Tribute to Gordon Parks “No Place Like Home” includes a portion of his Homecoming poem.
Lastly, our trolley tour ended with a visit to the town’s newest tribute, the 
Interpretive panels inform about the church’s namesake, Bishop Wayman, previous pastors, and a timeline of events documents its history.
A bricklayer’s fingerprints can still be seen in the church’s original bricks, which were added to the Wayman Chapel African American Methodist Episcopal Commemorative Park established on the site where the church once stood.
PRO TIP: Give yourself at least an hour to tour the museum. Many displays include a video component or touchscreen interaction. Don’t miss the outdoor displays, and look for the stars during a self-guided sidewalk tour.
During our two-hour workshop, I learned how the owner sources Bourbon County clay, prepares it for projects, and uses it to create stunning kitchenware and decorative pieces.
If you’re interested in an art class (they range in mediums from painting to pottery), view 
Be sure to shop for a new treasure in the art gallery. Handcrafted items include oversized whimsical clay designs, dinnerware, coffee mugs, wall art, and jewelry.
Also known for an equally dynamic lunch menu, Cohn’s Cafe on Main, offers diners another reason to visit. The Green Lantern dinner menu features main dishes such as German Goulash and Short Rib Ravioli.
Adjacent to the restaurant is the 100 South Main Mercantile & Market, which sells Kansas-made gifts and Fort Scott memorabilia.
PRO TIP: Check for the day’s menu specials on 
During my visit, I learned that the commercial kitchen space with state-of-the-art equipment can be rented by food truck operators and small business chefs.
A retail marketplace at the front of the space, The Kitchen C+C, is where kitchen tenants can sell grab-and-go cuisine, including daily lunch specials.
To learn more about Fort Scott, view Kansas Tourism’s 
