Disclosure: Experience El Dorado sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
Located 30 minutes from Wichita to El Dorado, a vibrant town offering overnight guests seemingly endless things to do, from outdoor lake activities and art walks to museums and must-have dining experiences.
I’ve lived near the oil refinery town most of my life, but I didn’t realize that The Oil City was such a gem until a recent visit. You’ll be equally impressed.
DINE LIKE A LOCAL
BAKERY 177
Start your day the best way at Bakery 177 (131 W 2nd Avenue), a quaint donut and pastry shop locals flock to for daily baked goods.
As I devoured a chocolate cake donut and a melt-in-your-mouth glazed donut, customers came and went with brown bags filled with tasty early morning treats. A little boy stood on his tip toes while excitedly pointing at chocolate Long John while his grandmother looked on.
I noticed the bakery also sells a variety of muffins, turnovers, and fruit and cheese croissants. Coffee is available for $2.00. (The owner does not sell gluten-free donuts, but an employee told me she is developing the recipe.)
PRO TIP: Arrive early Thursday-Saturday for the freshest selection of donuts. Indoor seating is limited to four people.
BREWCO COFFEEHOUSE & DELI
Another popular breakfast and lunch restaurant is BrewCo Coffehouse & Deli (139 N Main Street), where locals gather in booths along brick exposed walls sipping coffee in between bites of breakfast burritos and Yoder cinnamon rolls.
I was warmly greeted by a college-aged employee as Ed Sheeran played over the speaker in the background. I chose a house roast coffee and the Breakfast Croissant sandwich prepared with scambled eggs, diced onion, and bell pepper. The spread, a pepper fruit jam, added sweetness.
Diners can order from their sandwich menu all day, and I whole-heartedly recommend the Kettle Chicken on Ciabatta served with a side of your choice. I expected chunk chicken but the panini-pressed sandwich came with sliced deli meat, bacon, cheese, and fresh spring mix greens, which I appreciate.
PRO TIP: The Wi-Fi password is listed near the pick-up counter. Extra seating is available behind the cafe on the patio.
BUFFALO BREW COMPANY
Across town, Buffalo Brew Company (2348 W Central Ave Suite 1), is the ideal place to drop in when you’re hungry for a breakfast burrito paired with a specialty coffee drink (order the Maple Coffee!).
Most people seem to use the drive-thru window, but I preferred eating breakfast inside while reading a magazine. Located near the community college’s stadium, it’s a convenient place to pick up a flavored Lotus Energy Drink before or after a game.
WILLIE’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL
I’ve eaten at Willie’s Sports Bar & Grill (151 N Main Street) numerous times over the years, a casual restaurant where I can always count on hearty portions and cold beer. The Main Street mainstay draws a local crowd for lunch and dinner.
The menu features pages of burgers, comfort classics like ribeye or country fried steak dinners. My merlot mushroom cheeseburger was dripping with cheese served with a choice of side. I order the sweet potato fries to dip into homemade honey mustard sauce, a combo flavor bomb. The Happiness Burger and Philly Burger are also solid choices.
PRO TIP: Check the daily special menu board as you enter the door. Seat yourself at the bar or flag down a server.
BEIJING BISTRO
Whether you’re seeking lunch or dinner, Beijing Bistro (1905 W Central Avenue) is worth pulling over to try for its expansive menu selections of Asian fare, ranging from noodle and rice dishes to surf and turf.
I usually choose a House Speciality menu selection like General Tso’s Chicken, but you can’t go wrong with Mongolian Beef prepared with tender steak and served with signature sliced potatoes.
PRO TIP: The lunch menu is a value.
MISFIT KITCHEN
I’ll track down any food truck with good reviews, and Misfit Kitchen fits the bill. The El Dorado-based mobile eatery serves loaded fries, burger specials, and Voodoo Chicken.
When I noted their location parked at Walnut River Brewing Company, I showed up early to order the Blarney Fries served smothered in smoked corned beef, melted cheese, and sour cream. Their loaded fries are decadent shareable meal.
PRO TIP: Follow the food truck’s Facebook page to find out where they’re serving the day’s specials.
BONUS RESTAURANTS TO ENJOY
Unfortunately there were a few restaurants that were closed for the season or I simply ran out of time before I had to leave town. I’ll be back to support these local eateries: BUrger Co., E-Town Nutrition, Frawg’s Bar & Grill, True Lies Cafe and Steakhouse, and Lil Lee’s Boba. You might also appreciate Anita’s Mexican Grill, Black Gold Grill, Fiesta Mexicana, Gambino’s Pizza, Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q, La Casita Mexican Food and Bakery, Ori Hibachi Food Truck, and Two Brothers BBQ.
RELAX WITH A DRINK
WALNUT RIVER BREWING COMPANY
Walnut River Brewing Company (111 W. Locust Stree) is a fixture in the community as a gathering place where craft beer fans know they can count on quality beer and honest conversation with friends.
I returned to the taproom to grab as seat at the recycled wood bar for a flight of beer, and like always, I was more than happy with their flagship beers and rotators. Read more about my love of the brewing dating back to 2020 in this earlier blog post.
SPEEDTRAP DISTILLERY
Fans of handcrafted spirits will appreciate Speedtrap Distillery (703 S. Main Street). A couple of friends produce rum, single-barrel bourbon, and moonshine available to sample at the tasting room.
The small-batch distillery serves tastings for $20 per person (no cocktails) Thursday-Saturday. I recommend the Barn Burner Cinnamon Rum or the Dodgy Fox six-year bourbon.
LLEWELLYN DISTILLERY
Epicures should make their way to a tucked-away tasting room, Llewellyn Distillery (518 N. Star Street). Located in a transformed one-room schoolhouse, a husband and wife duo welcome patrons for tastings Tuesday-Friday.
Expect single-batch barrel bourbon whiskey, bourbon, agave spirit, run and vodka. If you’re not charged a fee for your tasting experience, consider purchasing a bottle.
SHOP FOR TREASURES
WALTER’S FLOWERS
For over 100 years, Walter’s Flowers (124 N. Main Street) has served the community. Producing stunning floral arrangements and selling refined home furnishings and decor, it’s one-stop shopping if you want to beautify your home or purchase a gift.
From aromatic candles and whole bean coffee to live plants and seasonal displays, they carry it. Don’t miss the discount plant table positioned in the rear of the store accessible via the back door.
PRO TIP: Provide your contact information and you’ll receive an invitation to Walter’s Flowers’ Christmas Open House, a must-have wintertime experience.
ALABASTER COLLECTIVE
As you enter the door at Alabaster Collective (112 N. Main Street), one realizes they’ve discovered a unique shop stocked with one-of-a-kind art, leather goods, textiles, jewelry, and bath products.
Launched in 2023, the business features the work of 30-40 artists, and 80 percent of them are Kansans many of whom live in Butler County.
I noticed an area highlighting the Artist of the Month before perusing the store’s handcrafted inventory. Pricing ranges from $5 to $2,000 depending on the item.
Alabaster Collective is the store El Dorado needed, and you’re going to love what you discover there.
GREAT BEGINNINGS BOUTIQUE
Calling all thrifters! Score a good deal on name brand clothing for the family at Great Beginnings Boutique (103 N Main Street) shopping two floors of well-organized inventory.
The first floor women’s clothing racks are organized by size and color with handbags displayed nearby. Upstairs, shoppers will discover men’s casual and formal attire, children’s clothing, and a significant inventory of pre-owned and never worn wedding dresses.
PRO TIP: Look for men’s and women’s collegiate attire upstairs to score mega deals.
ANTIQUE ALLEY
I love to shop for antiques, but I prefer a clean, organized store and Antique Alley (109 N. Main Street) delivers.
The store includes the collectibles of 50 vendors displayed throughout the store by theme. Unlike antique stores that carry mostly glassware or dishes, Antique Alley has something for every kind of shopper, ranging from old lanterns and fishing equipment to framed artwork and seasonal decorations.
Voted Best Antique Store by the Butler County Times-Gazette readers, it is open four days a week and inventory is often refreshed.
TRUNK2TREASURES BOUTIQUE & GIFTS
Next door, you’ll find one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted clothing and jewelry at Trunk2Treasures Boutique & Gifts (111 N. Main Street).
Owner Denise Wick is a talented self-taught artist known for her jewelry creations incorporating stone and beads, and her clothing pieces are considered collectible wearable art.
Catering to women’s fashion, the store also sells a few brands such as plant-based Zum® laundry and body products.
WORK TEAM MERCANTILE
If you love looking for a hidden gem for your home or closet at a flea market, you’ll want to shop Work Team Mercantile (119 W. Ash).
From antiques to oddities, the store’s eclectic selection includes old and nearly new items curated by five booth vendors. I spied a few collectibles, but the majority of the inventory on the day of my visit was an array of household items you might see at a garage sale.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip seasonal displays near the register.
AMY K DESIGNS
Amy K Designs (112 S. Main Street) carries handmade creations by local crafters and Kansas makers. The front of the store’s inventory is devoted to screen-printed women’s apparel, jeans, and dresses. Unique jewelry, soaps, and candles are displayed nearby.
The back of the store is primarily for fiber arts creatives seeking hand dyed yarn. Knitters will feel right at home relaxing on the couch chatting with other creatives while brainstorming a new project.
RELIANT BOOKSTORE
Years ago, I visited Reliant Bookstore (114 N. Vine Street) to sign copies of my book. I was thrilled to see the independent bookstore, which sells all genres of new and used books, thriving downtown.
Open Monday-Friday, the reader’s hangout includes a vault filled with El Dorado historical documents.
PRAIRIE BLOSSOM NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER
The go-to shop for nature lovers is Prairie Blossom Nursery & Garden Center (415 Metcalf Road) stocked with potted indoor and outdoor plants, a vast seed selection, and gardening supplies.
The nursery carries an impressive collection of succulent plants. Open seven days a week, the store also posts to a Facebook group page, where hundreds of followers learn about new store inventory and upcoming events.
BONUS STORES TO ENJOY
The clock was ticking before I was expected at a museum, so I missed shopping at Two Vintage Sisters for nostalgic collectibles and antique merchandise. I look forward to a return trip. You may also appreciate Angler’s Bait and Tackle, Bee’s Resale, Butler Community College Bookstore, Charlie’s Appliance and Mattress Gallery (for BBQ Hack grilling accessories), El Dorado Cigar and Pipe, Silver Hobo, TrueCare Pharmacy (for gifts), Walnut Valley Packing (high quality meats and grilling accessories).
ADMIRE PUBLIC ART & GALLERIES
DOWNTOWN SCULPTURES
The El Dorado Main Street Sculpture Program includes sixteen works of art positioned throughout the urban corridor. Considered A City of the Arts, El Dorado celebrates the creativity and thoughtful design of local and regional artists.
PRO TIP: Many of the sculptures are easily viewable by walking downtown, but don’t miss iconic creations on display at the historic train depot (430 N. Main Street) as well.
MURAL TOUR
If you know me, I love murals and El Dorado has quite a few that stop you in your tracks. At Mural Plaza, two murals are photo-worthy backdrops, specifically Brickmob’s Ad Astra Per Aspera street art designed by Joe Worley.
A three-foot tall letter sculpture and El Dorado Is Home mural are worth pulling over to see up-close.
Located the Greetings from El Dorado mural at Central Avenue and Main Street. A new addition, Brickmob’s mural at McDonald Stadium (298 N Griffith Street) captures the town’s love of the game.
COUTTS MUSEUM OF ART
When I visit El Dorado, I drop into Coutts Museum of Art (100 N. Main Street) to view three floors of remarkable artwork. The wheelchair accessible museum is housed inside a history building that was once a bank.
Free to explore (donations appreciated), the exhibits are both permanent and temporary.
Admire cowboy fine art by Frederic Remington, Bill Walton, and Milo West upstairs, or look for first and second floors’s exhibits showcasing a variety of artists’ styles.
MUSEUMS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS
EL DORADO BASEBALL HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM
Summer in El Dorado means the Walnuts collegiate team is at McDonald Stadium cracking bats. Game fans can visit the El Dorado Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum (210 N. Griffith Street) year-round by calling appointment (316) 321-2357.
I met locals who hadn’t yet visited the museum, and it’s definitely worth a free tour (donations welcome) for its vast collection of preserved artifacts, trophies, and framed jerseys.
Over the years, local oil companies the American Legion Post 81 sponsored teams. In 1926, the American Legion team was one of four teams to win a regional to qualify for the Junior World Series. The gallery also showcases notable high school and collegiate ball players, coaches, and referees.
The Hall of Fame inductees’ biographies, which includes players who went to the minor leagues, fascinates.
PRO TIP: Don’t leave without taking a photo at the stadium’s baseball-themed mural.
KANSAS OIL MUSEUM
The Kansas Oil Museum (383 E. Central Avenue) is one of the largest in the state focusing on the country’s 20th-century oil industry, including interpretive displays related to Butler County.
My tour indoors started with visual panel depicting the Kansas Flint Hills, the same ground where “black gold” was extracted.
I recommend viewing the explanatory video before perusing the room showcasing over one hundred years of oil equipment. Although it wasn’t yet open for the spring season, I’m told the museum’s grounds featuring 23 replica buildings and oil drilling rigs is worth the price of admission.
After the oil lease of 1918, multiple refineries operated throughout the county. Today, HF Sinclair Corporation is a major employer in El Dorado.
BONUS MUSEUM TO ENJOY
Consider a visit to the World War II History Center.
1958 TORNADO VICTIMS MEMORIAL
Drive to Graham Park to view the 1958 Tornado Victims Memorial, a tribute to 13 lives lost during the “backward tornado, which tracked southeast versus the expected northeastern direction.
If you listen closely, you’ll hear the sound of an Aeolian harp’s changing notes as the wind passes over it.
WOW-WORTHY BUILDINGS & SITES
BUTLER COUNTY COURTHOUSE & STATUE OF LIBERTY
Look up! The historic Butler County Courthouse (205 W. Central) is an architectural wonder built in 1909 of Romanesque design featuring a Goddess of Justice at the top and a 190-foot-tall clock tower.
A replica Statue of Liberty sits on the grounds, an installment by the Strengthen the Arm of Liberty campaign by the Boy Scouts of America in 1950.
BUTLER COUNTY FREEDOM MEMORIAL
Walk inscribed sideways to view the Butler County Freedom Memorial, where a Sovereign Wings eagle statue by Sandy Scott accentuates a wall dedicated to 1,500 men and women who served the country.
HISTORIC EL DORADO MISSOURI PACIFIC DEPOT
Drive to 430 N. Main Street to appreciate the historic train depot, a former passenger train pitstop for the El Dorado Missouri Pacific Depot.
Built in 1918, the red brick building resembles late 19th and 20th Century Mission/Spanish Colonial Revival design. Don’t miss numerous statues installed on the grounds, including the town’s second Statue of Liberty replica, a 9-11 memorial.
EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS & RELAX ON THE LAKE
EL DORADO STATE PARK & LAKE
On a sunny Kansas day, El Dorado State Park‘s over 3,500 acres of wildlife area and 98 miles of splashing shoreline are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
It’s common to see lake-goers backing their boat down a ramp at Shady Creek Marina for a day of fishing or water sports. Take it slow by learning to navigate Kansas winds on water at Walnut Valley Sailing Club.
An archery range, a BMX trail, playgrounds, and picnic areas are near 700 campsites and 10 cabins. Reminder, you’ll need a Kansas State Park vehicle pass to explore the area during prime season, April through October. Campsite reservations include a fee payment per night.
HIKING TRAILS
My go-to activity when visiting El Dorado State Park is hiking portions of its natural and paved trails. On the north side of the park, Walnut Ridge Trail is my preferred path for its year-round scenery along the river.
You’ll have access to six walkable trails. Walnut River Trail, Double Black Diamond Trail, and Boulder Bluff Horse Trail allow mountain bikers, so keep your head on a swivel for fast-approaching cyclists.
PRO TIP: Don’t own a boat? Rent one at the marina. Pack water shoes and swimsuits to enjoy two designated swim beaches.
TRADITIONAL GOLF & DISC GOLF
As a high school golfer, our team played 18 holes at Prairie Trails Golf Course (1100 Country Club Lane) located on the northeast side of town.
The bluegrass fairways are wide and strategically placed water hazards and bunkers keep gameplay challenging. A driving range and putting green are near the pro shop.
El Dorado Disc Golf Course (604 SW Haverhill Road) is an 18-hole amateur (short pad) and championship level course (long pad) with concrete tees and cart-friendly paths.
REST EASY AT COMFORTABLE LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS
DAYS INN & SUITES BY WYNDHAM EL DORADO
I was happy with the clean and spacious accommodations at Day Inn & Suites by Wyndham El Dorado (3200 E. El Dorado Avenue).
Upon arrival, I was shocked at the King Suite room’s square footage, which was larger than most of my college apartments, plus it came with a full kitchen (minus dishes and cooking supplies).
Taking advantage of the Wi-Fi, I kicked back while watching a movie after the sun set. The bed was firm but quite comfortable.
The next morning, I checked out the complimentary breakfast lounge, indoor pool, and fitness center, which included high-end exercise equipment.
PRO TIP: Bring earplugs if your room is located near the ice machine.
BONUS IDEAS FOR AN EXTENDED VISIT
You’ll likely pack quite a bit of activity into your itinerary like me. Next time, I’ll most certainly visit The Lanes at El Bowl, which features Frawg’s Bar & Grill patio dining featuring live music. I’m told the pizza and burgers are beyond compare.
Club Vaudeville serves cocktails and beer to love to dance karaoke singers and live bands.
I’m confident you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during your overnight stay in El Dorado, Kansas, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, award-worthy art, unique shopping, or rave-worthy dining.
Leave your travel questions in the comment section below.
Eventually, the invention of the telegraph ended the need for the Pony Express, which lasted 18 months from April 1860 to October 1861.
Entering the 
Once operated as a four-story luxury hotel opened in 1858, John Patee’s staff hosted travelers in 140 guest rooms. People from all over the world knew of the hotel within three years of its construction.
The museum offers numerous photo opportunities. Visitors can take photos of authentic saddles or peek through photo cutout stations.
Life-size faux horses are also positioned in the barn’s stables, making the Moment in Time exhibit a picture-worthy experience for all ages.
PRO TIP: Snap a photo of the 
As he led me from artifact stations to dioramas depicting Native American tribes who once resided in the area, I became increasingly impressed with the museum exhibits. 
Hands-on activity stations, designed for visiting children and groups of touring school kids, include animal pelts, sun-bleached bones, and cowboy apparel. Massive stagecoaches and farm equipment sit nearby, but once you venture into the original barn, it becomes clear how primitive life on The Great Plains was in the late 1800s.
PRO TIP: Mail a letter from the 
A relic of the Wild West, the museum covers the story of the town’s role as a stop on the Pony Express mail delivery trail in the late 1800s. Seneca claims the Smith Hotel was the first home station.
As you walk upon the building’s original wood floors, explore a makeshift saloon, replica schoolroom, and original artifacts for the Smith Hotel, a refuge for riders needing a break.
Don’t leave without learning the fascinating history of westbound rider, Johnny Frey. I appreciated reading about how local women fed him baked goods. Since he was in a hurry, they added a hole to each one so he could hold the food easily while riding his horse. Perhaps it was the invention of the donut?
The museum is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesday through Saturdays. To guaranteed a tour, call (785) 294-6655 to schedule an appointment.
If it wasn’t for the brave riders who delivered mail in all types of weather around the clock for the Pony Express, society wouldn’t have experienced new innovations to replace it including faster communication via the telegraph. Today, we send messages in seconds via text and email.
PRO TIP: Pack hiking shoes. If weather permits, take a nature walk along the Tallgrass Trail, a scenic 1.5-mile loop with views of a pond and natural prairie. Walkers gain access to an open-air pathway leading to learning stations.
PRO TIP: Bring binoculars if you plan on driving designated roads to view waterfowl on a good weather day in the Cheyenne Bottoms.
Koch Exhibit Hall includes 3,500 square feet of walk-thru displays with hands-on visual and auditory stations. Birdwatchers will appreciate the Bob Gress Wildlife Observatory for spotting native songbirds, deer, or turkey.
The collection includes birds, wild animals, and Kansas native species. His collection of owls is particularly amazing, especially when in contrasted with big cats in close proximity.
Fossils, rocks, minerals, dinosaur bones, and aquariums with snacks, frogs, and bugs make touring the museum an immersive experience for all ages. A native Kansan, I loved the artifacts found in the Sunflower State, including massive geodes and crystals.
PRO TIP: Animatronic dinosaurs and life-size taxidermy may frighten the museum’s youngest visitors, so prepare your self-guided tour accordingly.
Ignite your curiosity on a self-guided tour of mammal skulls and taxidermy ranging from Arctic animals and the Rocky Mountains to the rain forest and the Kansas prairie.
Open year-round, Kansas nature centers offer visitors an opportunity to learn about native plants and animal species.
Also in Wichita, adults will appreciate 
In Manhattan, 
In Andover, the entire family will find something to love at 
Outdoor landmarks worthy of touring include 
Other places to view well-known holiday light displays include 
You don’t have to be an experienced painter to appreciate the fun of adding paint to canvas at 
Hopefully, this list inspires you to add more delight to your Thanksgiving break spent with family. It’s the time of year when we’re reminded that quality time spent with family is important.
The customer service was genuine and helpful during my visit. Employees, who are experience 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 staffers’ 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.
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 Celebrate of Quilts.” It was interesting to look closely at the handiwork of quilts dating back to the 1850s. The museum installs new 
