Updated May 2026
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Visit Shawnee. All opinions and photos are my own, except for one photo.
Shawnee, Kansas, promises weekend visitors plenty of fun things to see and do in a community less than a 20-minute drive from the Kansas City metro. “Good Starts Here” is the phrase Shawnee uses to describe itself. After a return visit, I wholeheartedly agree.
FOOD & DRINK SPOTS
Cafe Equinox
Start the day with a lavender latté and a warm cheddar scone amongst the beautiful flowers at Family Tree Nursery Kansas City’s Cafe Equinox. Free guest Wi-Fi and lots of good day vibes – a plant lover’s dream.
PRO TIP: Enjoy breakfast on the patio, then shop at the popular garden center for a variety of plants, flowers, and gift items. Kids will appreciate watching fish at the koi pond.
McClain’s Market
McLain’s Market (5833 Nieman Rd.) is where you go when craving fresh, made-to-go salads, sandwiches, and soups for lunch. (They also serve delicious coffee and delectable breakfast pastries!) The sun shone on this day, and I wanted to eat outdoors.
I purchased a quinoa and kale salad with berries and took it to a shady spot at Shawnee Mission Park to enjoy it. The birds chirped, and schoolchildren played at the nearby playground.
PRO TIP: McLain’s Market has plenty of seating if you’d rather dine in.
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
If traveling with kids, you must dine at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant (13803 W. 63rd St.). Since the 1950s, patrons have watched toy trains overhead deliver food to each table. I loved the experience of using the table’s telephone to call in my order, listening for the “choo choo” sound, and watching the train lower the food to my table.
Since I already ate lunch, I opted not to order their famous old-fashioned hamburger and instead chose homemade onion rings and a cup of vanilla ice cream. I watched model trains pass overhead as I relished the nostalgia of a long-standing restaurant tradition.
PRO TIP: The Shawnee location serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Popular meals include the Big R, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, and Oreo Sundae.
Blind Box BBQ
Blind Box BBQ (13214 W. 62nd Ter.) serves Kansas City barbecue with a modern twist. Like bbq restaurants in the region, the smoked meats are served with sweet and savory sauces. What makes Blind Box BBQ’s menu unique is they elevate traditional bbq meals using uncommon ingredients. Prime Blend Burger is served with onion jam and brie cheese. The Smoked Chicken Philly comes with whipped cream cheese.
I recommend ordering a bbq meat dinner with your choice of two side dishes. Elote corn on the cob (Mexican street corn) and bourbon baked beans are melt-in-your-mouth good. I hope to return for the Sunday Brunch, a buffet, plus endless mimosas or Bloody Marys.
PRO TIP: Ask for a sampling of sauces. I loved the Barenuckle Traditional KC Style and Southpaw Carolina Style sauces. Available by the bottle for $6.
Friction Beer Company
Good things are happening in downtown Shawnee. Owners Brent Anderson and Nathan Ryerson are opening Friction Beer Company (11018 Johnson Dr.) to patrons who appreciate listening to excellent music and sipping on beers named after song lyrics. Brent gave me a behind-the-scenes tour, which included a 10-barrel system production facility and taproom designed with a music lover’s aesthetic.
Their mission is to make beer for every kind of drinker, where people can gather with friends or family in the taproom or the upstairs patio. You can expect lagers, stouts, and IPA variations on tap. You never know; you may find a barrel-aged beer on tap one day.
PRO TIP: Snap a photo in front of the cassette wall. Sit in a booth to see how many songs you remember on the wall.
Paulo and Bill
I found a fabulous, locally owned restaurant for Happy Hour: Paulo and Bill (16501 Midland Dr.). A glass of chardonnay paired nicely with spinach dip and house-made chips. The welcoming staff greeted regular guests who sat at bar tables chatting about the day’s events.
Not only does the restaurant serve discounted drinks and starter appetizers Monday-Friday from 3 pm-6 pm, but it is also known for its Italian pasta dishes and surf-n-turf selections.
PRO TIP: Check their website for wine dinner event dates requiring a reservation.
Nick & Jake’s
Nick & Jake’s (22220 Midland Dr.) is not a typical sports bar. It serves upscale, made-from-scratch menu options. Imagine dining on Grilled Bourbon Salmon, Pear Pollo Pecan Salad, or Jambalaya while watching the game from a comfortable booth.
In search of a comforting meal, I ordered a meatloaf dinner smothered in brown gravy served with classic vegetable side dishes. I glanced around the bar area and noted that most meals were sizable and arrived beautifully plated.
PRO TIP: Prefer small plate dining and drinks? Arrive Monday-Friday from 3 pm – 6 pm for $1 off beer and wine by the glass to accompany menu items like Tomato Bruschetta or Blackened Shrimp Mac-n-Cheese.
District Pour House + Kitchen
District Pour House + Kitchen (11101 Johnson Dr.) is one of the newest additions to downtown Shawnee’s dining scene. Located in the old Shawnee State Bank since 1911, the restaurant’s kitchen prepares signature flatbreads, appetizing salads, and dinner entrees you won’t find elsewhere. Duck Risotto for dinner? Beer Short Rib Ravioli? Yes, please.
We ordered the Hazelnut Shrimp Salad and Classic Flatbread at lunchtime, both of which were sizable for midday portions. I loved the intense flavor of bacon and pepperoni, but I would order it without the spicy peppers next time.
PRO TIP: Ask about the house-made infused spirits on display behind the bar. From Brown Sugar Pecan Bourbon to Marshmallow Vodka, District Pour House + Kitchen is thinking outside the box.
Drastic Measures
Drastic Measures (5817 Nieman Rd.) is a James Beard-nominated swanky cocktail bar that serves photo-worthy cocktails you won’t find elsewhere. If it can be done better, Drastic Measures is doing it differently, and they are unapologetic about their mission.
I sat down with one of the co-owners to learn about the business, which he considers a “glorified lemonade stand.” The bar consistently provides upscale drinks in a laid-back, accepting atmosphere.
PRO TIP: Sanders’ second business, Wild Child, opened next door in late 2023. It caters to patrons seeking no- and low-ABV libations. Expect small bite plates, and “real big vibes.”
Flying Cow Gelato
Flying Cow Gelato (11210 Johnson Dr.) delivers when you crave something sweet. The bonus? Gelato delivers the rich flavor of ice cream, but it’s less fattening.
Since its recent opening downtown, the gelato has been in high demand. The employees make it fresh daily in flavors like Birthday Cake, Pistachio, Root Beer Float, and Italian-style Stracciatella made with chocolate shavings (my favorite!). Fun Fact: Gelato was invented in Italy and translates to “ice cream.”
PRO TIP: Choose a seat on the shaded patio to enjoy your dessert treat amongst beautiful flowers with a view of downtown.
PLACES TO PLAY OUTDOORS
Mid-America Sports Complex
Visiting Shawnee during a good weather weekend? Visit Mid-America Sports Complex (20000 Johnson Dr.) to catch a youth baseball or softball game. The 70-acre facility is a hub of family-fun activity. During my visit, I watched a baseball game from the stands at no cost.
Recently renovated, the ballpark is also home to the Fan Zone concession stand, yard games to play between innings, and Instagram-worthy backdrops. Oversized baseballs and a letter written by a player catch one’s eye at the ballpark’s entrance.
PRO TIP: Traveling with little kids? Walk them to Mini America to play whiffle ball on an artificial turf field.
Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball
Does this look like California? Think again! Enjoy summer by experiencing Shawnee Mission Mission Beach Volleyball as a player or spectator. For over 20 years, sandy beaches and tropical drinks have attracted adults looking to have fun in the sun.
I enjoyed sitting back and sipping on a margarita as the first day of co-ed summer league volleyball commenced with the announcer’s call, “It’s volleyball o’clock!” Children built sand castles on the sidelines. Team members gave high-fives between sets.
Indoors, the air conditioning was inviting. I watched professional volleyball on TV as 1950s music hits played from the speaker.
PRO TIP: The indoor scenery is worth a look. Brass labels on the wooden bar showcase league teams like Sand Crabs 24-0 and Diggin It 24-0 that swept the league.
Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center
Opening day at Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center (13805 Johnson Dr.) is popular. Lines form around the building to gain entrance to the city’s swimming pool featuring towering slides, AquaClimb, diving boards, and an 8-lane lap pool. A lazy river, Bubble Bench, and interactive pool features entertain families during summer, making it a go-to spot.
PRO TIP: If you want to relax poolside, claim a reclining chair or escape to a shaded party cabana.
Splash Cove
A family-friendly destination at the Jim Allen Aquatic Center (5800 King Ave.), Splash Cove is conveniently located near downtown attractions. It is the place to spend a summer afternoon with children. The Mini Wave Pool, a 125-foot full-body slide, and an interactive playground featuring animal characters keep it fun.
PRO TIP: Rent a party cabana for poolside privacy.
Shawnee Mission Park
Biking, swimming, fishing, disc golfing, kayaking, and more are just some of the many reasons to visit Shawnee Mission Park (79th and Renner Rd.). The impressive park covers over 1,600 acres and includes a 120-acre lake.
On any given day, visitors can access outdoor activities designed for adventurers of all ages. I observed fishermen hoping to catch bass and catfish from kayaks.
Land-based activities include equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, which appeared well-groomed and easy to navigate. I saw dog parents watching four-legged friends at the 44-acre off-leash area. Families ate lunch while admiring stunning lake views at picnic shelters.
PRO TIP: Purchase tickets to a Theater in the Park live musical production. Bringing the kids? Research the theater’s Movies in the Park schedule.
ARTWORK TO ADMIRE
Shawnee Library
I love visiting a library, especially to view its art galleries. At Shawnee Library (13811 Johnson Dr.), I discovered a gallery of artwork depicting African-American themes. Stop by the library to view rotating artwork.
PRO TIP: Do your kids love to read? Drive to Shawnee Town Museum with the kids for Reading to the Rooster, a free event for kids.
Veterans Park
Pay tribute to those who died during World War II at Veterans Park (13605 Johnson Dr.). Located across the parking lot from the aquatic center, it’s a beautifully landscaped area to view Hands Of Freedom, a tribute dedicated in 1992 to military veterans.
PRO TIP: Park hours are 6 am-10 pm. Attend the memorial’s special tribute event on Veterans Day.
Wild Bill Hickok Statue – Trail Scout Park
A 13-foot-tall sculpture of Wild Bill Hickok (Shawnee Mission Parkway and Nieman Road) is an awe-inspiring feature at Trail Scout Park. Artist Maretta Kennedy worked with bronze to create “Trail Scout.” Hickok was a figure in Shawnee history in the 1850s.
PRO TIP: Parking nearby is free. Take the sidewalk to the sculpture and read the interpretive displays.
Pioneer Crossing Park
The history of wagon trains passing through the area is depicted by a sculpture at Pioneer Crossing Park (10401 Shawnee Mission Parkway). Created by artist Charles Goslin, it is a life-size, beautiful landmark surrounded by native grasses and trees.
PRO TIP: View a nearby bronze statue of wagonmaster Richard Williams. He built a house in the area between 1857 and 1860.
Herman Laird Park
Stop by Herman Laird Park (1600 Johnson Dr.) to view “Talking Time,” a bronze sculpture that pays tribute to Chief. Charles Bluejacket. He was a Shawnee tribal chief, minister, farmer, and military captain who came to the area from Ohio.
PRO TIP: The park is an excellent place for kids to play on equipment and swings. It is located within walking distance of Shawnee Town 1929.
Parade of Hearts
One of the best ways to bring attention to a destination? By adding public art like Parade of Hearts: A Heartland Celebration. The five-foot 3-D hearts are placed in Kansas City and surrounding towns to unite the community and celebrate diversity. The heart, located in downtown Shawnee, features hundreds of padlocks.
PRO TIP: Use the interactive map to find more Parade of Hearts during your KC-area travels.
HISTORY TO DISCOVER
Shawnee Town 1929
Transport yourself back to when Shawnee was a farming community at Shawnee Town 1929 (11501 W. 57th St.). The living history museum is open for guided and self-guided tours from March to October, giving visitors insight into a typical day in Shawnee all those years ago.
I started my museum experience by watching a historical video in the visitor’s center before heading outdoors to tour authentic and replica buildings.
Industries that influenced the town’s economy are represented.
Walk inside Murphy Service Station to see where the town’s early residents shopped for gas, soda pop, and cigars. Take a moment to appreciate Dunbar School, a one-room schoolhouse with authentic artifacts.
Appreciate the entrepreneurial achievements of business owners at Garrett Grocery Store, City Ice, and Fisher Chevrolet Dealership.
To fully understand how Shawnee was established, tour the inside of a 1878 farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and chicken coop (live roosters and hens welcome you!).
The reality of farmstead life becomes apparent when entering the Market Shed, where produce was washed and sorted for the market.
I found the botanical gardens, planted and maintained by K-State Research and Extension Center’s master gardeners, to be a highlight. The Typewriter Repair Shop was by far my favorite building for its authenticity.
Old Shawnee Days is an entertaining event that attracts thousands of visitors to Shawnee Town 1929 each June. Known for its carnival, music, concessions, and vendors, it is worth planning your trip around.
The museum’s annual Bloody Mary Party is a popular fundraiser that uses the working farm’s tomato crop. You will want to attend their celebrations. Check their Facebook page for upcoming adults-only and family-friendly events.
PRO TIP: End your museum tour back at the visitor’s center to shop for Kansas-themed gifts.
Downtown Shawnee
Shawnee began as a campsite name for Gum Springs and was named for the Shawnee Indians who lived in the area. After the Civil War, farmers settled in the area to grow crops and sell produce to residents of neighboring Kansas City. Today, the downtown area is a thriving business district with historic buildings.
I recommend accessing the online map before starting the walking tour at City Hall.
PRO TIP: Park via streetside parking or City Hall’s public lot.
STORES TO SHOP
Nigro’s Western Store NO. 2
Yeehaw! For over 50 years, Nigro’s Western Store No. 2 (10503 Shawnee Mission Parkway) has outfitted shoppers with the best denim and boots in Shawnee, Kansas. Celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Moses Brings Plenty have shopped its aisles.
Third-generation owned and operated, the Western store is a cowboy’s and cowgirl’s dream. Boots, belts, jewelry, jeans…they’ve got it all for concert season or any day of the year.
PRO TIP: Check the store’s Facebook page for the Look of the Week to inspire your shopping.
Family Tree Nursery
I’ve visited Family Tree Nursery (7036 Nieman Rd.) in springtime and before Christmas, and it’s just as magical every time. If you’re shopping for indoor or outdoor plants, home decor, or gardening supplies, I suggest stopping there before departing Shawnee for your home.
The botanical backdrops inspire photos, and Cafe Equinox is the ideal place to grab a nature-inspired latte or bag of whole-bean coffee to go.
PRO TIP: Walk to the rear of the greenhouse to find an area devoted to plants on sale.
HOTEL LODGING TO REST
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Kansas City Shawnee
I love a Marriott hotel. The modern amenities, clean rooms, and rewards points make it a worthwhile stay. Fairfield Inn & Suites (16550 Midland Dr.) is a short drive from many of the city’s top attractions.
My King Suite guest room was noteworthy for its bonus lounge space with a second television and desk area. If traveling with kids, the sofa bed pulls out to accommodate them. On-site amenities like a complimentary full breakfast, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center make the overnight stay extra comfortable.
PRO TIP: Should you forget to pack road trip snacks, stock up on your favorites at the 1st-floor convenience store.
What a whirlwind weekend you’re going to have in Shawnee.
For more places to discover, my blog post Out & About in Shawnee written in 2021, includes bonus travel details such as the Aztec Theater, breakfast eatery Pegah’s, and Wandering Vine at the Castle.
Are you following my Kansas road trips on social media? I post bonus content on Facebook and Instagram – thank you for coming along for the fun.
Do you like to maintain a fitness routine while on the road? The hotel’s gym is designed to include exercise machines you’d expect to see, plus free weights. The room is large enough that several hotel guests can get in a workout and not get in one another’s way.
PRO TIP: Access a filtered water station in the fitness facility to refill your reusable bottle before departing for the day.
No matter the time of day, I always find something I love on their menu. If it’s the early morning, I opt for breakfast burritos and a drip coffee. In the evening, I order a creative cocktail from the seasonal menu. When unsure what to order, I leave it up to the staff to make something inventive, like a bourbon margarita.
I ordered mouth-watering burnt ends and mac-n-cheese, which tasted 100% delicious. You can’t go wrong with anything you order, from rings and smoked turkey to bbq nachos and Legend Mac Bowls.
With an extensive lunch menu of thoughtfully prepared appetizers, salads, and soups, my friend and I ordered Fried Goat Cheese Balls for starters. My only wish is that we had more of them.
Sandwiched between homemade bread, the chicken salad was scrumptious, and the salads served on the side or as a meal are unmistakably good.
The chef brought warm apple dumplings with vanilla ice cream adding to the delightful dining experience.
Since it was Friday night, I took advantage of the steak special and ordered a ribeye and all the fixings – the comfort meal I craved while away from home. When pressed for his menu favorites, the owner suggested the Pastrami Burnt Ends Sandwich and the Surf-N-Turf dinner.
My al-a carte taco with chips and salsa made for a perfect lunch. Known for South of the Border favorites, El Pollo Loco, enchiladas, and burritos add to expected sports bar menu offerings.
I ordered a lager from KC Bier Company Dunkel to keep with the theme of supporting area breweries.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Each hole can be played two ways from concrete pads. Only a couple of water hazards make it challenging. The course hosts five to seven tournaments a year.
It’s not a race but a chance to push yourself and support your besties. Obstacles like the Vertigo Bus gave me pause, so I left it to the ladies to show me how it was done. They ran the hamster wheel, crawled through muddy ball pits, and swung from ropes, cheering one another on.
If you’re interested in other events at Zip KC, the owners convert the landscape into a walkable haunted path at Halloween, complete with fright-inducing rein actors. At other times of the year, events like Ultimate Field Day and Family Timber Challenge draw a crowd.
In the air, attendees can sign up for aerial activities like the
The park is also home to sports fields, a basketball court, paved walking trails, three playgrounds, and a dog park. You may catch a baseball game or practice in progress if you’re lucky.
PRO TIP: Check the 
Did you know there are over 45K acres of farmland, which accounts for 87.5 percent of all Kansas land? You support families and communities by shopping locally from a farmer or area business.
PRO TIP: Be the first to arrive at the market when it opens for the best product selection. View hours and vendor details 
I found the items for sale reasonably priced for a Midwest market. They have several restored cabinets with drawers to choose from if adding furniture to a home’s entryway or living space. Additionally, you’ll discover many neutral-tone lamps, sit-abouts, faux plants, and framed artwork for sale.
PRO TIP: Take your photo in front of the store’s super cool neon sign.
The curated pieces resemble high-fashion styles you see in big-city boutiques. I found it hard to resist the latest KC gear, and I still regret not buying the beaded earrings calling my name.
PRO TIP: Ask the staff about recent mark-downs.
Keeping with their #stayvintage theme, shoppers can expect to find antiques for their homes and closet. Need a retro dress? They have it. Want a set of dishes? They have it. Hoping to find a cool chair for your office? They have it.
Woodland & Willow
But that’s not all! Home decor finds are tucked amongst racks of clothing and jewelry. The store’s owner is great about helping you find what you want.
The Small Hinge Boutique and Creative Studio
PRO TIP: If you lack time to attend a workshop, consider shopping the boutique space for a decorative sign to take home. From personalized door hangers to wall decor, you’ll find it there.
PRO TIP: Check the refrigerated cases for cheese samples.
The town is one that I’ll repeatedly visit for a plethora of things to do and people to meet.
Opened in its original location in 2015, the cafe won Best Atmosphere for two years running by Restaurant Guru. You’ll love the casual, comfy ambiance of the café, which reminded me of The Perk in the TV show Friends. Trending music plays in the background as patrons sit at tables sipping coffee and bent over laptops. Paired-up friends chat about the day’s happenings.
It is nearly impossible to order at the register without spying on a delicious homemade pastry in the bakery case. The owner told me she had just pulled warm blueberry muffins from the oven so it was a no-brainer. It was the perfect pairing with my chai latté.
KC Wine Co. is not just a tasting room next to a vineyard. It’s a winery destination located on five acres with a multitude of things for visitors to enjoy.
Inside The Barrel Room, adults can savor tasting flights ranging from dry whites and reds to sweeter varieties. You’ll discover an expansive open-air building with outdoor seating and a scenic view of the vineyards just beyond its doors. An oversized KC Wine Co. lights up at night, providing a picture-worthy moment.
Plan your visit to the winery around one of their popular 
The red barn is also open to visitors. Walk inside to order a wine slushy, a pint of Free State Brewing Company craft beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Look for a seasonal display with a bench to take a photo with friends or family.
The building is a welcoming and beautifully designed space. The owners, who are brothers-in-law, did an incredible job creating both an indoor and outdoor patio space with you can sit back and be yourself, plus dogs are allowed on the patio.
The brewery quickly expanded from one barrel to five barrels since its opening last spring. Although they don’t off traditional beer flights, I wanted to taste all five of their brews ranging from an espresso stout to a golden ale. Each one tasted true to my character and exceeded my expectations. My favorite was Snap Chaps Western IPA, and lucky for me, I took a crowler home to enjoy later.
The food menu included a short list of flatbreads. When they told me that the brisket on the Meats Pizza was made by an American Royal award-winning barbecuer, 
My suite was a 456 sq. ft. living room separated from the bedroom by a privacy door. I appreciated its amenities, including free WiFi and a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator. Each room had a 42-inch HDTV, and the king-size bed was as comfy and plush.
The five-generations, family-owned vineyard and winery produce more than 20 wines, hard ciders, and wine slushies. During my taproom visit, I discussed the winery’s history with the owner while savoring the “Thankful for Wine” $10 flight (5, 2oz pours), a wide-ranging selection of dry to sweet wines.
Their best-selling wine, Hoftoberfest, tastes semi-sweet with pineapple notes that finish crisp. I prefer full-body, dry reds, so, I was a fan of Zin XXI, which had blackberry and plum notes.
Outside, wine enthusiasts can take advantage of patio seating and covered seating inside a second building also available for group parties. I recommend planning your visit around the sunset hour.
I was impressed by the brewery’s ample space to unwind and craft beer. Locals grouped up at tables with a view of the game.
PRO TIP: The brewery is closed Mondays, so you’ll want to plan your visit when the brewery and the food truck are open. View the hours 
Ice cream, baked goods, and candy dominated the menu, and the place smelled like freshly made waffle cones. I opted for a double scoop of Rocky Road ice cream, but seriously, you can’t go wrong no matter your menu choice. I recommend taking a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.
Not in the mood for ice cream? Choose a hazelnut iced coffee, latte, or vanilla macchiato from the Espresso Bar menu.
A quick scan of the shelves and I noticed that they sell their bagged coffee beans, so I kept it simple and ordered a tall drip coffee. Irresistible pastries stared back at me from the glass case. A warm strawberry homemade Pop-Tart and a slice of quiche tasted delightful while I watched it rain outside from a window seat. Nearby, a cabinet with jewelry, branded merchandise, and retail candles sat on display.
The owner of Junque Drawer also owns Holiday House across the street (101 W. Cedar), which is one-stop shopping for all things festive. Thematic rooms are designed by style and color creating Christmas decor and ornaments. Wait until you see the bathroom shower filled with pillows!
PRO TIP: Start on the third floor and work your way down, ending the shopping experience at the register. If you’re searching for a specific gift item, ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction.
I recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was searching for lighter fare and chose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.
PRO TIP: Don’t be surprised if they say you can pay for your order after dining in. Bring cash, or you must spend $5 for a credit card purchase.
The menu includes drool-inducing sandwiches like The Z-Man Sandwich, made with slow-smoked beef brisket topped with provolone cheese and onion rings. People rave about it for a good reason. It’s filling, so consider ordering the regular sandwich instead of the jumbo portion.
The food Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is putting out is pure kitchen magic. Do you want to try a variety of smoked meats? Order a Combo Sandwich or a Two Meat Dinner. Save room for dessert – ask about the seasonal dessert while ordering your meal. 
PRO TIP: Walk across the parking lot and check out 
Made of Kansas limestone, the stunning hotel is where families stay when in town visiting students. KU alumni create memories on their wedding day at The Oread. It’s the premier hotel on the hill that Lawrence visitors should experience at least once.
The fourth-floor views from my 
The room amenities were equally as nice. The spacious room (400 sq ft) and walk-in shower were delightful. The fresh flowers and a personalized note welcoming me to the hotel were finishing touches that set The Oread apart from other hotels.
With a full day of exploration in store, I left The Oread and walked to the west side of campus in search of a bite to eat for breakfast. (Tip: When setting out to discover the perks of campus life, leave your car parked inside The Oread’s garage. Wear a pair of walking shoes and enjoy the surroundings.)
The menu features pastries, breakfast burritos and bowls, as well as snacks prepared fresh from an exposed kitchen space. I arrived between an influx of students so there wasn’t a line. With my order placed, I nestled into a comfy spot indoors with a view of the patio and passing students.
A long-time fan, I appreciated reading quotes from coaches and players displayed on the walls. Another exhibit worth viewing is “Game Changers,” which highlights the story of the game and the people who impacted its trajectory over time.
Why is a peach basket sitting next to him? “I showed them two peach baskets I’d nailed up at each end of the gym, and I told them the idea was to throw the ball into the opposing team’s peach basket,” he said. If I were you, I’d bring my camera to take a picture sitting next to the legend’s statue.
The Booth Hall of Athletics includes the KU Athletics Hall of Fame, artifacts from games of the past, trophies, and a historical timeline of moments in collegiate sports. For me, the best artifact on site is a section of the original center court floor from Allen Fieldhouse. The encircled “K” painted on wood planks marked and scuffed representing years of hard work and dedication to the game.
To fully understand the excitement surrounding Jayhawk basketball, you have to attend a game. However, the next best thing is touring Allen Fieldhouse named after “Phog” Allen, the program’s head coach for 39 years. To book a guided tour aka “The Jayhawk Experience” to gain access to the arena, call 785-588-4299.
An ideal place to listen to the jukebox between watching sports on TV, Johnny’s Tavern serves some of the best pizza in Lawrence. Some claim it is the best. They’re also known for serving the coldest pint of beer in town.
I ordered a slice of Great Bambino with pepperoni and a Blue Collar Lager by Free State Brewery made specifically for the restaurant. It’s the ideal collaboration since Johnny’s Tavern has been the go-to spot for hard-working folks for generations. The wedge salad came with crispy onion rings making it unique. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. The busy lunchtime crowd seemed to agree.
View Johnny’s Tavern hours and get a sneak peek of the menus 
As soon as you walk inside you are greeted by the early timeline of Dole’s life in Russell. From his early days working as a paperboy in Western Kansas to earning the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his military service, the museum’s collection includes notable artifacts. I enjoyed reading his personal quotes about his experience healing from war wounds and how it shaped his perspective on life.
You’ll also appreciate learning that the entire basement is the 
If you want to visit the Dole Institute of Politics located on KU’s west campus, check the hours of operation 
If you’re unable to travel to the museum, you can take a virtual tour of the 
The latest exhibition “Debut” showcases never-before-seen pieces of art. During my visit, a college class was given a tour by a docent who taught them about individual pieces.
Mammal skulls and taxidermy dominate much of the museum’s exhibits. Explore the glass cases to learn about the biodiversity of birds of prey and how they’ve adapted to life on the prairie. I imagine you won’t find a larger collection of waterfowl taxidermy elsewhere.
A high-quality museum, it is a place where visitors of all ages can explore nature from an indoor setting. Ask for Discover Guides at the front desk before starting your self-guided tour. They are ideal for families and each guide is tailored to a specific age group. To view the museum’s hours and plan your visit, check out their website 
I ordered the Charcuterie board that came with domestic and imported cured meats, olives, mustard, and crostini. Because it lacked artisan cheeses, I ordered a small plate of aged cheddar and soft cheese to accompany it. Paired with the Liquid Gold cocktail, it was delightfully appetizing. The rum-based drink was hand-crafted with pineapple, spices, apricot, and orange.
After the film ends, I recommend trying the hands-on, interactive exhibits that teach you about geology, the cowboy lifestyle, and the importance of soil composition. You’ll have a new appreciation of the beautiful Konza Prairie today. An entire floor is dedicated to teaching children about the prairie and its animals. Plan a visit for the family 
Are you interested in booking a free tour? Reserve one 
I fell in love with a number of stunning cars, but two classic vehicles stole my attention. The curves and chrome of the navy blue Hudson made my heart pitter-patter and one look inside the Volkswagon Window Bus’s two-tone green interior and I was squealing with delight. Oh, the road trip I could take in that beauty.
Popular for serving Mexican street food with a twist (the portions are large!), everyone raves about the food. When at Taco Lucha, I strongly recommend ordering “The Nancy,” a beer cocktail made with Old Milwaukee beer and pineapple juice. Everyone orders it! They also make a mean michelada. We made fast friends at the bar while dining on spicy jalapeño poppers, stuffed tacos, and a mega burrito (ask about the “secret menu” options). I plan on trying the popular Raspberry Bean Dip on a return visit.
What I appreciated about the beer menu was that it had a variety of choices for every kind of craft beer drinker from sours to stouts and porters to pilsners. Learn more about downtown’s newest neighbor 
This list of eateries and bars only scraps the surface of the many places there are to eat in Manhattan! Locals gave high praises to 
I’m so glad I returned to Manhattan to experience it like a local after a long hiatus. I’m planning a return trip during better weather conditions to explore the 
For bonus travel recommendations, read my blog post 