Disclosure: Grand Island Tourism sponsored my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine.
Grand Island, Nebraska, is best known for the Sandhill Crane migration each spring, but it’s also home to a variety of attractions that make it a worthy destination at other times of year.
From a luxurious Grand Island Casino Resort and the Nebraska State Fair to the Stuhr Museum, I found plenty of reasons to appreciate Nebraska’s favorite island.
My weekend experiences, whether relaxing poolside or indulging in sweet corn ice cream at the fair, proved that the town really is grand.
Grand Island, Nebraska: Top Things To Do During an Overnight Stay
Located 94 miles west of Lincoln and 87 miles from the Kansas border, Grand Island is a sure bet if you’re seeking a getaway as a couple or with friends or family.
LUXURIOUS LODGING & SPA
Grand Island Casino & Resort
As soon as I entered the seven-story Grand Island Casino & Resort (777 E. Fonner Park Rd.), I knew I was in for a treat.
Casino
A beautiful crystal chandelier and a vibrant casino floor welcomed me. The electronic chiming of more than 750 slot machines played over the sound of resort visitors checking in.
Although I’m not much of a gambler, I love the energy of a casino. The lights, the sounds, and witnessing someone hit a jackpot create an unmistakably fun atmosphere.
The casino’s design reminded me of a high-end gaming floor in Vegas. Spacious, high-end finishes, and a gaming floor flanked by a private poker room and Draft Day Sports Lounge.
I had the best time people-watching between sips of wine at the sports lounge, where diners enjoyed sports-bar menu favorites like pizza and burgers while watching televised games.
The friendly bar manager and I chatted casually about the resort before I departed to check into my Deluxe King hotel room.
The resort’s guest rooms are anything but standard. From the gold-detailed furniture to the soft, pillow-top bed, each in-room amenity exceeded my expectations.
White quartz countertops and a spacious, walk-in shower with strong water pressure were bonuses. Complimentary bottled water, a premium coffee station, and high-speed WiFi made me want to book an extra night.
Ruthie’s Steak & Seafood
The top-floor, fine-dining restaurant, Ruthie’s Steak & Seafood, is so beloved that reservations are recommended.
Bob, the host in a full suit, gave me the warmest welcome by saying, “I have the perfect table for you,” as he walked me to a U-shaped booth with views of the Fonner Park horse racing track.
An Old Fashioned cocktail, made with Maker’s 46, set the tone for my first course, an order of steaming hot French Onion Soup served with complimentary sliced bread and flavored butter spreads.
Because they’re known for the finest cuts of Midwest steaks, I chose the Filet Medallions and Shrimp served over creamy mashed potatoes and topped with onion strings.
The indulgent meal lived up to the resort’s reputation as a higher-end experience, both rich in taste and layered with flavor.
Other guests sipped wine and cocktails over dinner while the sunset cast a warm glow over the dining room. I heard the pop sound of a champagne cork, and guests exclaimed, “Hooray!”
PRO TIP: Reserve a table for the restaurant’s Sunday Buffet served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring an omelet station, fresh seafood, and more.
The Spa
The Spa is your private escape to a tranquil setting. Open six days a week, guests must request an appointment in advance for rejuvenating beauty and wellness services.
I pampered myself with a 90-minute Customizable Facial, and like any service, it included access to the jetted hot tub, scented ice room, and infrared dry sauna.
My aesthetician did a remarkable job analyzing my skin and treating it with the utmost care using Eminence® products. A scalp massage concluded the treatment.
If you’re seeking massage therapy, they offer a Custom Massage, Deep Tissue, and Maternity Massage. Body treatments intended to exfoliate and renew one’s skin are also available.
You could make an entire day of your spa experience by adding a waxing or nail service.
PRO TIP: If you want to schedule multiple services, call more than two weeks in advance. Pack a tote bag with a swimsuit.
Swimming Pools & Hot Tub
You’ll want to ask for a wristband when you check-in at the hotel desk to gain access to the resort’s indoor/outdoor swimming pools and hot tub.
Pool cabanas are first-come, first-served, but I chose a quiet lounge chair area where I could close my eyes and reflect on the day.
Kids splashed in the shallow end as families looked on. Two teenage boys tossed a football. What was mostly a family pool area turned into an adult-only hangout as the sun set.
Fonner Park Thoroughbred Racing
If you visit the resort for the twelve weeks between February and May, you can watch horses race around the Fonner Park dirt track.
Access the racing season calendar and seating charts here.
The Gift Shop
A visit to Grand Island Casino Resort wouldn’t be complete without selecting a travel souvenir at the first-floor The Gift Shop.
I spotted well-known brands like Stanley®, apparel, and sunglasses that would appeal to most adult shoppers. They sell magnets and postcards, too.
BONUS SERVICES: 22 & Vine serves bistro cuisine. A nearby coffee counter serves Starbucks® beverages and grab-and-go food items.
MUST-SEE MAGNIFICENT MUSEUM
Stuhr Museum & Railroad Town
I’ve toured the Stuhr Museum & Railroad Town (3133 W US Hwy 34) not once, but twice over the years because it’s fascinating and I appreciate learning new facts about Nebraska’s history.
The museum sits on an island and is considered the “Gem of the Prairie” between Lincoln and Denver.
The first floor displays renowned artwork, and the second floor contains historic artifacts.
To fully appreciate a town, you have to uncover its history, and the upstairs exhibits dating back to the 1800s highlight the impact of the agriculture and railroad industries on Grand Island.
Before exiting, I never miss a chance to shop at Prairie Treasures Gift Shop for Grand Island souvenirs and Midwest-inspired artwork.
Across the street, the Fonner Rotunda is a must-visit second museum, worth a tour before you take a self-guided walk through Railroad Town.
Often overlooked, it houses some of the most stunning Native American collections and Western cowboy artifacts curated by Nebraskans.
Railroad Town consists of original buildings that show what life was like on the prairie in the late 1800s.
As you enter some of the historic homes, don’t be surprised if you encounter a Railroad Town volunteer dressed in period clothing, busily working on a trade.
The homes’ interiors are fully furnished and include interpretive signage explaining the historical purpose of the items. Framed sepia-colored photographs show the family that once occupied the home.
The grounds include a bank, post office, general store, newspaper office, barn with farm equipment, and more.
There is nothing more satisfying than drinking a cold sarsaparilla at the General Store before heading out to see what the tradespeople are creating at the tin, wood, and blacksmith shops.
One of my favorite moments visiting Stuhr Museum and Railroad Town is appreciating the life-sized bronze sculptures by Nebraskan creators such as Dave Biehl and Benjamin Victor.
Stuhr Museum is open seven days a week, and Railroad Town is staffed daily from May 1st through mid-September each year. Exterior viewing is available year-round.
PRO TIP: Wear comfortable shoes for the self-guided tour of Railroad Town that sits on 40 acres of the greater 206-acre complex.
CAN’T MISS ANNUAL EVENT
Nebraska State Fair
Visiting the Nebraska State Fair is a rite of passage for locals, and it should be at the top of your must-do travel bucket list when visiting Grand Island from late August to early September.
The 11-day fair promises high-energy carnival rides and games, 4-H exhibits, food trucks, rodeo, live music, and plenty of hands-on activities that honor the state’s agricultural industry.
I’ve experienced fairs and festivals, but this one takes it to another level. The smell of roasted Nebraska corn on the cob and funnel cakes filled the air as rollercoaster riders squealed with delight.
The fair, which draws more than 300,000 attendees every year, was bustling, but it never felt too crowded as I navigated the grounds.
If you only have an afternoon to experience the fair, I recommend ordering a tasty, smoked brisket sandwich from Cactus Jacks.
Then, stop at the ice cream treats truck in front of the Raising Nebraska building to order a fair-famous Pineapple Whip dairy-free treat.
Inside the Raising Nebraska building, fairgoers can use interactive exhibits to learn about the state’s production of corn, milk, and meat.
Next door, the 4-H building houses ribbon-winning entries, and it’s home to the UNL Dairy Store. Step up to the counter and order a cup or cone of Nebraska-made ice cream for $6.
Bonus can’t-miss fair activities include Case IH® Combine Rides (they move fast!) and witnessing nature at its best inside the Tractor Supply® Birthing Center (baby animals!).
The end-of-summer fair’s ticket price is a value, considering the festivities include more than 5,000 hours of entertainment. Plan for next year’s Nebraska State Fair here.
PRO TIP: If you’re staying overnight at the Grand Island Casino Resort, you have a panoramic view of the fairgrounds at sunset from the outdoor swimming pool area.
MEMORABLE HISTORIC STOPS
Shady Bend Cafe
When I pulled up to Shady Bend Cafe (3609 Lincoln Hwy), I was met by a full parking lot of cars, and for good reason.
Now a diner serving comfort classics and lunch specials, the historic building, once a motel, is all that remains of Shady Bend Camp.
More than 30 cabins welcomed travelers to stay and view the buffalo herd. Original gas pumps sit in front of the building, and historic photographs hang on its interior walls.
Inside, friendly locals greeted me and quickly told me that guests seat themselves.
I claimed one of the last bar counter seats in the back of the dining room, across from shelves of canned goods. Apparently, I was sitting in a seat marked “Earl,” a relic from an earlier time.
A connoisseur of Reuben sandwiches, I’d give my lunch sandwich top marks, although the crinkle-cut fries were standard.
Most lunch customers visit the salad-and-soup bar.
PRO TIP: Take a gander at the dessert case before you order. Pie is sold by the slice.
Kensinger Service & Supply
Across the highway from the diner is another historic building worth stopping to appreciate, and if you need to fuel up your vehicle, you’re in luck: Kensinger Service & Supply (1810 E. US Highway 30) is open six days a week.
The gas pumps, neon sign, and historic Lincoln Highway concrete marker date the full-service station to its 1936 construction.
Filling station employees are fourth-generation family members who will pump your gas, clean your windshield, and, if you arrive in the morning hours, offer you a free cup of coffee.
The Seedling Mile
Located directly behind Kensinger Service & Supply is The Seedling Mile historical marker, designating a section of Lincoln Highway completed in 1915.
The concrete road was a toll-free, transcontinental highway from New York City to San Francisco. This section is the only remaining one of the concrete Seedling Mile project.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Nebraska’s favorite island is a place to make memories.
I’ll never forget how I felt zipping around in a harvest combine or watching as a crowd gathered around a street performer at the Nebraska State Fair.
Grand Island Casino Resort offered me a relaxing, luxury hotel experience that you don’t find in most Midwest communities.
And as they say, the residents are “Nebraska Nice,” which is probably the best part of visiting Grand Island.
Ready to extend your road trip? Consider driving Southwest on Interstate 30 to Kearney, Nebraska. My guide Things to Do From Downtown Boutiques To Breweries makes the 51-minute trip worth it.
I’ve taken two road trips to Holton since 2022, and each visit reaffirms my love for the county seat.
High school alumni cruise around the Jackson County Courthouse square, throwing candy and beads; the sun sparkles on classic cars’ chrome at the car show, and kids play joyfully in bouncy houses nestled among vendor booths as families chat nearby.
The hum of food trucks’ generators can be heard over the festival announcer’s voice.
I couldn’t resist striking up a conversation with a couple who sat ready to chat about their car to passersby. They told me the story of the car’s restoration using original parts with pride.
If you buy a maker’s creation or a homemade cookie, you’re likely supporting a small business or a worthwhile local cause.
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.
With names like “Giraffes on Parade,” “Random Scraps,” and “Flying Geese,” each quilt is an expression of the creator’s personality. Table toppers and queen-sized bedding creations draw attention.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss other Holton’s festivities throughout the year, like fireworks during 
You can expect a free, self-guided tour featuring exhibits on one-room schoolhouse items, Carrie Nation history, barbed wire history, World War I & II memorabilia, and the tools of 1900s trades.
Welcoming history lovers since 1984, the museum is also known for rotating art exhibits, and the artwork is often for sale. View the museum’s hours 
Sign the guestbook at the visitor’s desk when you arrive.
The homes on the tour are private residences except one, which is maintained by the Jackson County Historical & Genealogical Society.
If you want to view the home’s interior, make an appointment with the Jackson County Historical Museum.
The cannon pictured below is dedicated to Civil War soldiers and sailors and rests at the base of the town sign.
As you continue your walk around the courthouse, you’ll find an original horse water trough, circa 1880, positioned at the base of an old tree, indicating where riders would let their horses hydrate when stopping at the original courthouse square.
BONUS: Find another livestock water-trough marker north of the Linscott Park tennis court, within walking distance of downtown.
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 downtown boundary to see murals like the one pictured below, painted on the side of a building at Banner Creek Reservoir (10975 KS-16).
Seated indoors, I noticed that most of the morning café traffic came via the drive-thru. I found the café’s interior inviting. The employees were patient as I chose my menu items and were more than welcoming.
The entire place is adorned with frogs. Paintings, toys, and sit-a-bouts feature the green-colored amphibian. A life-size astronaut sculpture keeps watch over them.
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.
PRO TIP: Beat the lunch rush or call the restaurant for a to-go pizza, especially if you’re visiting Holton during a community festival. Bring cash for payment or pay a fee when using a credit card.
As we made our way to a table, I stopped to peer into a double-door refrigerator stocked with plates of sliced pie. I knew I wasn’t leaving the restaurant without devouring a slice.
The meal lived up to the hype, and the cafe is worthy of a repeat visit.
Boomers’ Steakhouse, Grill and Catering gets my vote for the best dinner experience in Holton for its friendly service, quality steak dinner, and strawberry pie (don’t skip dessert!).
The restaurant includes full bar service, so if you’re hoping to complement your meal with a hand-crafted cocktail, cold beer, or glass of wine, you’re in luck.
The local hangout is the ideal place to enjoy a bite to eat if you want to watch the game or chat over burger baskets with friends from a vinyl booth.
The owner/baker moved to Kansas from Australia, bringing her culinary talents to a loyal following of customers. She prepares a rotating selection of more than 150 cheesecakes sold by the jar.
But it’s more than a general store. It’s where locals make memories, from purchasing sweet treats to reserving tuxedos for the high school prom.
During my visit, I watched as parents pushed strollers and ushered their kids up to the old-fashioned, original ice cream counter to order for them.
I also spotted kids in the store gleefully looking at the candy shelves and asking their parents for retro candy or premium chocolate bars, which are among the store’s biggest sellers. It’s an after-school drop-by spot for kids who want to buy bulk candy on their way home.
Holton Mercantile is a mainstay, dating back decades. You’ll appreciate the building’s original floors and tin ceiling. Go for the nostalgia, the ice cream, and shop the store’s inventory to support local.
Shoppers earn discounts if they sign up for the “Text Club” and are willing to ship items via USPS to you. If you join their rewards membership, you earn one point per pre-tax dollar you spend.
Glass orbs hang from delicate strings on display. The sunlight through the store’s windows shines through pretty paperweights and beams through bowls and colorful vases.
PRO TIP: Check the More Than Lemons 
Shoppers travel miles to shop at the store for Nora Fleming, Spartina purses, Vera Bradley bags, and Melissa & Doug toys. The front of the story features in-season displays.
NOTE: The store’s owner is closing its doors for good after 12 years of business on June 27, 2026.
Displays of battery-operated candles flicker from store shelves nestled next to beautiful plates and framed art. Love the table or the armoire? It’s probably for sale. Seeking Kansas-inspired artwork? Check out Triple B Hilltop Farm’s items.
At the front of the store, I spied a pop-up floral display with fresh, locally grown flowers for sale on the day of my visit. Jewelry, handbags, and some body projects were displayed near the register.
In addition, you’ll discover more Kansas-made products, from home decor to packaged specialty foods, on display. You’re bound to want a canister of hot chocolate mix, apple butter, or bread mix.
Nearby women discussed accessories as I shopped the rear of the store, which displayed children’s plush toys and clothing and accessories for girls who love pattern and ruffled dresses.
Rows of all-natural dietary supplements and essential oils line store shelves. T-shirts, hair accessories, jewelry, and Natural Life® gift items can be purchased to create a gift basket for someone you appreciate.
The inventory consists of twenty-two vendors’ hand-curated antiques, and like me, you’ll find yourself wandering from room to room in search of a nostalgic item that triggers a memory.
PRO TIP: Road-trippers will want to view the stairway covered in vintage license plates, a photo-worthy backdrop.
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 planning your trip to Holton around the theater’s upcoming performance. To view the event schedule and reserve a ticket, visit the box office details 
It was named in honor of Major and Mrs. Milton Moses Beck, who were early residents of the town. The library has remained open to the public since 1952.
The Veterans Memorial impresses. Holton is a Purple Heart City, so the on-site memorial honors every medal recipient. A World War II memorial pays tribute to Company “E” of the 137th Infantry who died at war.
The park features tennis and basketball courts, playground equipment, and a shelter house available for reservation. The park is one of six public 
As I looked for a clear or colored orb, I appreciated the picturesque views, including 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.
The reservoir, established in 1997, is an outdoor lover’s playground with free access to miles of hiking and biking trails, campsites, bird-watching, and fishing for catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass.
After visiting countless Kansas towns, I’ve decided that Holton is not only one of the most welcoming, but it also offers more than enough to see and do during a visit. You may need to visit multiple times, like me.
As they say, you can have it all in Jackson County. Holton embraces its visitors, and you’ll feel just as welcome as I did.
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.
The Franklin County Courthouse, an architectural marvel, anchors the four-block stretch of a walkable district, where every crosswalk is flanked by attractive landscaping and historical signage. Bike racks are situated along Main Street.
You’ll never need for anything because the owners live on the property, which includes three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. I found the 
Each room includes a queen-size bed, a television with streaming channels, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to a community lounge with a beverage station and refrigerator.
I came and went as I pleased, using the front door’s keypad entry. I had my choice of first-floor living spaces to read a book surrounded by antique furniture and paintings created by a local artist. Each one spacious enough to host a group.
I awoke to the sound of birds fluttering among the old, native trees visible from my bedroom windows. Moving to my private balcony, I sipped coffee and listened to a rooster crow as the sun warmed the hostas and flowers below.
At breakfast, Sharon served homemade Polish crepes filled with whipped cream and topped with strawberries. I love meeting new people, so we chatted about their business and swapped travel stories.
You won’t find a more appealing place to stay in Ottawa, and you’ll leave feeling as if you made new friends after meeting Steve and Sharon. Reserve your stay 
The cafe glowed with a warm hue of gold and orange as light bounced off the wood and brick walls. The smell of freshly brewed coffee permeated the air. A small grouping of women gathered at a table, as I made my way to order the Mug Shot’s most popular espresso drink, the Librarian Latté, prepared with molasses, vanilla, and cinnamon.
The cafe is the ideal place to escape to for a conversation with a friend or to read a book on the cafe’s plush chair, situated beneath built-in bookshelves and nostalgic posters. Go for a latté prepared with house-made syrups and a freshly baked muffin.
A nearby couple chatted about the day’s plans. The server warmly greeted a regular customer at the door. The place was abuzz on a Sunday morning with the sound of clanging plates and conversation.
I can vouch that the Breakfast Bowl was made to order with fresh ingredients, and the chai latté was frothed to perfection.
Kids will appreciate a menu dedicated to them, ranging from PB&J to a pasta entree. In the evenings, adults pony up to the cocktail bar for shareable nachos and boozy beverages.
My Quesabirria (flattened tacos with shredded beef) was prepared with fresh ingredients and served with a side of house-made birria sauce. The hand-shaken house margarita was served promptly, which was fantastic considering the dining area was nearly full, and overflow customers were enjoying the patio at lunchtime.
Every detail of my dining experience was noteable, from the attentive service to the thoughtful presentation.
My Reuben sandwich, cooked by the owner, was served on toasted rye bread with plenty of sauerkraut and signature Grub Sauce.
My server said the lunch buffet, featuring pizza and a salad bar, is well-liked Monday through Friday from 11 am to 2 pm.
I watched the NFL Draft while enjoying soft cheese bread, followed by a small Super Combo Pizza. Each one tasted so good that I requested a take-home box.
We enjoyed a scrumptious three-meat platter with perfectly cooked, hand-cut fries and BBQ pit beans that were rich in flavor. Smart diners will save room for raspberry-filled donut bites.
Beverages purchased at the brewery can be enjoyed in the downtown Common Consumption Area, so it’s common to see customers drinking beer and cocktails while walking along Main Street within marked areas.
A perk I don’t often experience during my state-wide travels, the Common Consumption Area gives everyone a chance to mingle and enjoy evening events downtown as they casually stroll with a drink in hand. Regular customers opt to sit at the bar and drink from mugs.
Gentry’s Gold (5.7% ABV), an English pale ale, reminded me of a refreshing, game-day beer. Not sure what to order from the beer menu? Bartenders recommend a Regular Beer as a starter before moving on to more complex ones like a milkshake IPA.
A bit overwhelmed by the selection of ice cream options and a menu featuring ice cream-topped waffles, I kept it simple, ordering two scoops served in a cup: Exhausted Parent® (coffee and bourbon) and Munchie Madness (Oreo® and peanut butter cup).
PRO TIP: Inquire about vegan, non-dairy, and Italian Ice flavors.
Ottawa Bike and Trail supports Kansas bike and gravel races and often hosts group rides starting with free coffee and a social hour. Follow the store’s 
They were not open when I was in town. Shoppers should arrive during daytime hours on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.
I felt a sense of patriotism, taking note of stacks of footlockers and military flags. The owner, who also operates The Painted Lady Bed and Breakfast in town, is welcoming and eager to help customers find what they need.
The store’s 
A lot of its inventory is Americana and country-farmhouse in theme; however, you’ll discover spaces with dishware and sit-abouts spanning the decades.
A separate building, “the barn,” is home to more rusty, farm-style items. It’s here you’ll find a cast-iron bed frame or a massive wooden spool that can double as a table.
I thought the items were reasonably priced, and a 20% off sidewalk tag sale caught my eye. Stacks of Corning Ware, vinyl records, commemorative plates. You name it, she carries it.
Look for individually priced houseplants in containers, available for sale at prices you won’t find elsewhere.
For those who appreciate a shopping quest where they can dig into boxes of textiles or look high and low for an item, Kim’s Corner is for you.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss the Everything’s $1 section.
The owner, who curates inventory from the Atlanta market, attracts shoppers who appreciate a neutral motif punctuated by a pop of color. I had a wonderful time getting to know her as I quickly moved items to the register I planned to purchase.
Her store is also the only one in town that sells faith-based journals.
Unlike some makers’ spaces I’ve toured, The Collective Heart is thoughtfully designed, dedicating a space for each vendor without overcrowding the store. Jewelry, signage, leather goods, wall art, woodwork, and even bath products make up the bulk of the merchandise.
PRO TIP: View their upcoming all-ages art classes on their 
The family-owned and operated store has served the community for more than 40 years, providing floral arrangements, houseplants (tropicals included!), chocolate truffles, toys, and locally hand-poured candles, and more to walk-in gift seekers.
Don’t miss the homemade dip mixes, jarred jams, and jellies in the specialty foods section. Crafters appreciate their vast selection of DMC embroidery floss. Families with kids will find their Lego® Botanicals a must-have whimsical purchase.
If you’re someone who wants to build a wardrobe capsule for traveling, they make it easy to pull together multiple outfits from a handful of pieces.
The styles are reflective of female shoppers ages 30 and up. Puffer bags, jewelry boxes, and classic jewelry simplify packing for your next road trip.
One moment I’m ready to purchase a new Kansas City Chiefs shirt with a cute handbag, and the next moment I’m spotting a jarred candle I want.
Expect whimsical gifts like embroidered kitchen towels with funny sayings, bejeweled sandals, cocktail drink mixes, and everything in between.
Midwest-made products, including quite a few recognizable Kansas brands, line the shelves.
Purchase a made-to-order Reuben or corned beef sandwich to take back to your lodging accommodations.
Staff can clean your jewelry at no charge while you shop.
View the current movie screening and purchase tickets 
Lincoln staff did a beautiful job of setting up the tables underneath bejeweled chandeliers. A cocktail bar and silent auction table were prepared to serve up to 200 guests.
From traveling bands and sports watch parties to murder mystery dinner theater, you’ll find an event worth planning your itinerary around. Check the auditorium’s 
If you want to view art without taking a class, tour the rotating monthly exhibits showcasing work by local and visiting artists.
To learn more about Franklin County Historical Society’s guided tours or upcoming events, click this 
Washington’s signature details, including carved stones, are evident in this building, nine libraries, and 12 other Kansas courthouses.
Don’t forget to pause and honor those who gave all at the 
When several railroad companies wanted to be the first one to traverse Kansas, county leaders advocated for the Leavenworth, Lawrence, & Galveston Railroad. In 1867, Franklin County fund the project if the LL&G reached Ottawa by January 1, 1868. The train arrived on time.
Like the courthouse, the depot was designed by George P. Washburn and currently houses historical exhibits.
The Old Depot Museum’s collection of artifacts, photography, and thematic rooms is free to tour (donations appreciated).
If you play disc golf, bring your gear to play the 
Traveling with little kids? Consider attending storytime and open play sessions, often announced on the library’s 
View links to ten city parks and the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail
Other must-attend events include late-night shopping during Third Thursday on Main, the Brews, Beats & Boutiques / Moonrise Bike Ride (September), Boo Bash Candy Parade (October), Shop Small Saturday (November), Christmas Open Houses on Main Street (November), Christmas Parade (December), and Main Street Mingle (February).
What’s not to love about Main Street Ottawa? Kind business owners welcome you into their retail shops and restaurants in a bustling, well-kept downtown district marked by historical buildings and charming store windows.
Developers revitalized a historic building, restoring it to its three-story grandeur. Initially built in 1902, guests feel at home amid modern furnishings in spacious lounges and high-ceiling guest rooms.
You’ll definitely want to grab a drink and dinner at 
I relaxed with a smoked old-fashioned cocktail before savoring braised beef served with a squash-corn salad from the chef’s seasonal menu. The dining room stirred with small groups of local families and friends who dropped by for cocktails and conversation.
Paired with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, the chef’s creation was scrumptious and well-suited for a fabulous fall evening dinner.
Hotel Garber’s staff exceeded my expectations by ensuring my comfort during my two-night stay, often asking whether I needed anything and offering tourism advice when requested.
At the 
I explored the American Bittersweet: The Life and Writing of Willa Cather exhibit, highlighting the author’s personal and professional life by reading the displays in chronological order, starting with her formative years in Red Cloud.
Situated in a restored 1887 building, the exhibit’s photography brings Cather’s story to life. She worked tirelessly as a magazine editor for years, a job that honed her skills and accelerated her book-writing career.
PRO TIP: Take the elevator upstairs to view another Cather statue and a gallery of historical photographs taken of Red Cloud residents during the 19th Century.
At each stop, from the Burlington Depot to Cather’s childhood home, an expert guide explained the significance of each location in Cather’s upbringing.
The depot is mentioned in Cather’s short story “The Sculpture’s Funeral.”
She also befriended Carrie Miner, the same woman to whom her book “My Ántonia” is dedicated. The family inspired Cather’s characters, the Harling family.
As you tour the home, it’s clear it was considered one of the nicest in the community when it was built in 1878. Large rooms, gold-plated dishware, and oversized windows impress.
The church held a memorial service for Cather in 1947, including two windows that the author had made and dedicated to her parents.
A tour of the National Historic Landmark includes descriptions of original furniture pieces, artwork, and prints.
Cather installed the rose-colored wallpaper in the attic bedroom.
Elaborate teller cages shipped by rail from Chicago anchor the main floor of the 1888 bank building. Downstairs, visitors have access to interpretive panels about Red Cloud’s history.
The Garbers inspired Cather to develop characters in “A Lost Lady.”
Built in the 1890s, the Red Cloud Opera House continues to host 
I wasn’t able to visit the museum during its off-season, but I was able to admire the home’s exterior and grounds, which includes the original water fountain that once sat at the intersection of Webster and US Highway 136.
I arrived in Red Cloud on a Monday, and the owner of On the Brix went above and beyond, preparing a beautiful charcuterie board with an array of cheese, sausage, and fruit for me to enjoy in my guest room at Hotel Garber.
The day’s burger special, a Mushroom & Swiss CheeseBurger with a side salad, was prepared fresh to order from an open kitchen. A lounge bar resembling something you might see in an old-school supper club served locals.
I struck up a conversation with the owners, who are die-hard live-music fans and often travel for concerts. The walls of the restaurant are covered with framed albums and guitars signed by bands like The Eagles and Def Leppard.
The food alone is well worth stopping at The Palace Lounge, and the owner’s collection of music souvenirs makes it a true hidden gem you have to see.
The pharmacy also sells flavored coffee and caffeinated cold tea drinks.
PRO TIP: Also a cinephile, Dahle runs the 
Comfortable couches and sun-drenched tables by the windows invite you to cozy up with a latté or smoothie to read a book or watch downtown traffic go by.
I met the friendliest locals when ordering a coffee, so we sat down and talked about all things Red Cloud, including what makes the town so welcoming. It’s the kind of people who look out for each other and want the best for the community, a real sense of community spirit.
PRO TIP: If the retail location is closed during your visit, you can find their honey for sale at 
The owner has curated a vast selection of seasonal gift items, and the upstairs clothing racks feature women’s and children’s on-trend apparel. You’ll be shocked at the bargain pricing for the new shirts and jackets.
Other tourism-worthy events include the 
View the 
Sure enough, it appeared from the horizon as I traveled along Highway 281, an unmistakable point of interest. A charcoal sketch by Bethany Ugalde, an artist from Mexico, was transferred onto panels to wrap around the galvanized steel structure.
The preserved prairie is considered a National Birding Site, a home to meadowlarks, wild turkeys, and grassland sparrows.
PRO TIP: Wildflower season lasts from April through October, and two miles of trail offers breathtaking views.
Be sure to walk inside the site’s little white chapel, which is always open. It’s the same church used in a JEEP® Super Bowl LV commercial staring rock legend Bruce Springsteen.
My first stop was the Visitor Center (502 Kansas Ave), located inside a restored old gas station that is open but unmanned during daylight hours. I signed the guestbook, and picked up a complimentary Kansas road map.
Across the street, I discovered the 1910 Lebanon City Jail surrounded by green space, which locals tells me is the where the town hosts live music during the community’s Oktoberfest celebration.
PRO TIP: Weigh your buffet plates on the scale after serving yourself, then note its weight/price on the paper. Give the grocery store clerk the tab of paper to pay for your meal before departing.
Kansas
Founded in 1886, 
The memorial honors the miners who lost their lives in the worst mining disaster in Kansas history at the Cherokee and Pittsburg Coal and Mining Company Mine No. 2 on November 9, 1888. Family members gathered at the mine’s entrance, distraught and waiting for news about their loved ones, many of whom did not survive the dust explosion.
Whenever I approach a memorial, I vow to read every name inscribed on it, and this time was no different.
PRO TIP: Clear your calendar to attend Frontenac’s 140th birthday at Mining Days on June 5-7, 2026. The Heritage and Homecoming Celebration is an annual event featuring family-friendly activities and historical tours. Don’t miss 
Frontenac residents have a lot to be proud of, and you owe it to yourself to visit the Heritage Hall Museum at the 
Original artifacts curated from local families added a storytelling quality, enhancing the high-quality exhibits. I was amazed by the attention to detail, from the testimonials of miners to the newspaper clippings about business openings.
The history of Southeast Kansas, and Frontenac in particular, is the story of European immigrants, miners, bootleggers, religious devotees, and family members who looked out for one another and supported the community.
Walking inside the bakery, I felt as if I were a customer seeking to buy a loaf. Tools of the miner’s trade and newspaper clippings about the worst mining disaster in history adorned a room dimly lit by lanterns. A peek inside a replica chapel revealed the history of long-standing Catholic and Methodist communities.
Another aspect of the museum that makes it better than most is that the director thought to include an interactive component, adding visual and audio stations, making it more accessible for visitors. Due to the museum’s proximity to the Frontenac Public Library, its artifacts are deeply rooted in the area’s genealogy.
Former and current Frontenac residents will relish the displays featuring curated Raiders memorabilia. Peering inside the displays, it was as if I could hear the football players and cheerleaders rooting for the Raiders to win the high school’s first-ever state football championship over Stockton in 1994.
Visiting the Heritage Hall Museum, located inside the Frontenac Public Library, is well worth it, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural legacy and mining history of Frontenac and the greater Southeast Kansas region.
The locally owned coffee shop sells 
During my visit, a steady stream of locals came and went, accompanied by music playing from a Bluetooth speaker.
The dining room was already filled with locals when I stopped by on a weekday for a midday meal of boneless chicken wings coated in Sully Sauce. With my choice of side dish, my meal was appetizing and one I’d order again.
On Saturday nights, Shooters Neighborhood Bar & Grill is a popular hangout attracting diners seeking the Chef’s Choice special. Happy Hour specials are served Monday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
And for the kids (and young-at-heart), there’s a self-serve candy station, perfect for mixing and matching your favorite sweets by the pound. It’s the ultimate sugar-fueled pit stop for your Kansas adventure.
I would refer to the shop’s 
In addition to slicing deli meat by the order, refrigerated glass cases house homemade sausage, pasta meals, and pre-made sandwiches. A few tables provide a place for lunch-goers to sit down and savor a panini prepared with bread from the local bakery.
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 
