Disclosure: Discover Osage County sponsored my trip. All opinions and photographs are my own unless otherwise noted with photo credit.

Osage County should be at the top of your list of destinations to enjoy in Kansas for a weekend getaway.

I explored most of the ten communities and various outdoor recreational attractions, including Main Street stops and the annual Smoke in the Spring barbecue competition, which you don’t want to miss.

At historical museums and Santa Fe Trail landmarks, I learned that the county was founded by the Osage Nation and developed by hard-working miners and railroaders.

Osage County has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to find your fun.

Whether it’s focused on experiencing laid-back lake life at two federal reservoirs or small-town shopping and dining, Osage County is your getaway.

Osage County, Kansas: Best Things to Do During a Weekend Getaway

Arvonia

Arvonia is a tribute to Welsh immigrants who founded it in 1869. People chose to settle in the area after reading advertisements promising abundant farming opportunities.

Once home to Prince Owain Glyndwr’s descendants, with a population of over 700, Arvonia grew quiet until the 1970s, when buildings were thoughtfully preserved to honor Welsh heritage. Fewer than 20 residents remain.

Arvonia School House

The Arvonia School House (32381 S Arvonia Rd), established in 1869, stands atop a small hill in the countryside as a living historical site in Lebo. It is one of the earliest architect-designed schools in the state.

I admired the craftsmanship of the building’s original materials, from the creaky wood floors to the sun-drenched desks and well-used chalkboards in the classroom.

The Arvonia Historic Preservation Society also maintains the nearby Calvinistic Methodist Church of 1883 and the Town Hall of 1916. The Humphey’s House, the Hunting Cabin, the Main House, and the Quonset Building remain on the complex.

Visitors should plan their visit to the historic site around one of its events. The Arvonia Summer Kick-Off in early May includes family-friendly activities, food trucks, and tethered balloon rides.

In October, the Arvonia Fall Festival draws a large crowd for traditional Welsh food, activities, and demonstrations, including butter churning, crafts, and soap-making.

To schedule a schoolhouse tour, contact [email protected] or call 620-794-3917.

Melvern

The town of Melvern, located on K-31 highway, four miles north of I-35, is worth visiting to explore its natural scenery before or after enjoying a mid-day meal downtown.

Incorporated in 1884, the town flourished after the Kansas City and Emporia Railroad built lines through it.

Its proximity to Melvern Lake, four miles west of town, and the surrounding pastureland intersected by a railroad line make it a quintessential Kansas town. The north side of town sits along the Marias de Cygnes River.

Titi’s Mexican Cuisine

The owners of Titi’s Mexican Cuisine (117 SW Main St.) relocated from Emporia to open the restaurant after deciding that they loved Melvern.

The family-owned restaurant serves a two-sided menu of Mexican fare, including the daily special, available for dine-in or carry-out.

My order of savory steak and chicken fajitas arrived sizzling hot with warm flour tortillas, pico de gallo, and fresh guacamole.

The friendly, attentive service complemented the delicious mid-day meal as country music played in the background.

My only regret was ordering too much food because I should have planned to enjoy a paleta (Mexican popsicle).

PRO TIP: Not sure what to order? The town’s mayor recommends the Burrito Melvern.

The Hub

In 2025, Melvern added The Hub to the town’s park to encourage outdoor activity. Complete with a basketball, pickleball, and shuffleboard courts.

It truly is a family-focused spot with a nearby children’s playground and strategically placed park benches, ideal for a picnic or watching courtside play.

Melvern Railroad Park & One Room Schoolhouse

A visit to the nearby Melvern Railroad Park and One Room Schoolhouse is a must for history lovers of all ages. Melvern’s caboose sits in the foreground of the Santa Fe Pratt Truss Bridge, making it a photo-worthy spot.

Built in 1979, the caboose was relocated to the spot where one can watch trains pass by.

The Highland Schoolhouse, although not open for self-guided tours, evokes a sense of nostalgia for the days when Kansans attended school taught by a single teacher.

In a working-class town, Melvern’s history is preserved in the park, while the surrounding area is being transformed to meet residents’ needs with modern recreational facilities.

Melvern Riverfront Park

I enjoyed walking on the nature trail at Melvern Riverfront Park (710 NE Pine) after lunch, stopping to admire wetland birds at the overlook.

Although I didn’t have time to walk the entire trail, I did stop and read some of the signage along the river trail to learn more about native plants, trees, and wildlife. A trailhead kiosk includes brochures for the river trail.

Whether you’re hiking one of nearly a dozen trails or playing the new disc golf course at Melvern Riverfront Park, you’ll be glad you visited for the natural scenery that changes with the seasons.

Melvern Lake

Melvern Lake (US 75 and K-31 highways) is known as the Gateway to the Lakes, offering quiet relaxation at a campground or water activities such as fishing and boating.

During my visit to the Melvern Lake Marina, I chatted with the owners about what they loved about life on the lake.

They appreciate the laid-back vibes and fun-loving nature people bring to the lake, whether they’re fishing from inside the heated dock or enjoying uninterrupted sunset views over the water from a rented pontoon boat.

Visitors can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, a paddleboat, or a tube for use on the water for a half-day or full day. Each comes with all the equipment you need, plus required flotation.

While enjoying the tranquility of a day on the water, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles that often nest in the area. Unsure where to look? Ask Jamie at the marina.

Need to rent a boat slip for the weekend? Need fish bait or need tackle? Perhaps you simply want to meet the lake’s four-legged mascot, Jake?

You’ll find everything you need and more at the Melvern Lake Marina Store.

PRO TIP: Don’t leave the marina without taking a photo with the unofficial World’s Largest Bobber.

Bonus Reasons to Love Melvern

Eisenhower State Park at Melvern Lake promises 1,785 acres of recreational fun. Aside from on-the-water activities, a park pass provides access to sand volleyball, an archery trail, cabins, yurts, a wildlife area, and a swimming beach. Visiting during the summer? Don’t miss the Melvern Fall Festival and Sunflower Days.

Lyndon

The Cabin at the Ranch House Wedding Venue and Event Center

Do you prefer the comforts of home, but want the privacy a vacation rental offers? The Cabin at the Ranch House Wedding Venue and Event Center in Lyndon is now at the top of my list of preferred rural retreats in the state.

The two-bedroom, two-bathroom rural retreat combined my love of high-end amenities with the seclusion you gain from staying on a ranch nestled in the Flint Hills.

I was the third guest to stay overnight at the newly built cabin, and felt spoiled by the soft bed linens, plush bath towels, spacious shower, and fully-stocked coffee station.

The host also provided a bottle of red wine (enjoyed lounging in front of the electric fireplace!) and farm-fresh eggs in the refrigerator.

In the morning, I enjoyed a fresh-brewed cup of coffee as the sun rose. And in the evening, I looked in awe as elk grazed on ranch land in the distance.

The ranch is also home to a wedding venue and an additional two-story vacation rental, The Ranch House. Hunting groups will be interested in reserving guided high-fence hunts at the ranch with Kansas Trophy Outfitters.

It’s rare to find an exceptional, rural getaway where the host has anticipated your every need. My stay at the cabin checked every box.

The property is not listed on a vacation rental home website. To reserve it, contact the owner directly.

More Vacation Rentals in the Area

Lyndon Guesthouse

Large groups will appreciate Lyndon Guesthouse‘s charming five-bedroom, 5.5 bathroom layout, complete with two dining rooms, a game room, and a large patio with a shaded yard. It is conveniently located between Melvern Lake and Pomona Lake.

EuroNook Dutch Windmill

EuroNook Dutch Windmill is another vacation rental option in Lyndon. I didn’t stay there, but it looks like an Airbnb I would enjoy for its European-inspired aesthetic. Suitable for six guests, the two-bedroom, one-bath cottage is a dog-friendly getaway worth reserving.

True Brew Coffee Co.

It was early in the morning, and True Brew Coffee Co. (804 Topeka Ave) was already busy with regular customers sipping coffee and eating pastries in the cafe while the staff fulfilled to-go orders in the drive-thru lane.

Known for handcrafted espresso drinks, I opted for a warm Cinnamon Honey Latté and a bowl of comforting oatmeal with fruit and nuts, to enjoy at a wood-topped table near the window.

True Brew Coffee Co.’s baristas are welcoming, and the atmosphere is especially homey. Go for a “soulful sip” seated by the fireplace or at a patio table on a sunny day.

Lyndon Carnegie Library

At the Lyndon Carnegie Library (127 E. 6th St.), visitors can drop by to admire the building’s stunning architecture dating back to 1911.

Today, the library is a hub of activity, with drop-in events such as book signings and kid-focused craft sessions.

Although it was closed when I visited, it was the site of a plant sale with proceeds benefiting the library’s programming and expansion.

I purchased a flowering plant and planted it at home to remember my delightful visit to Lyndon.

Osage County Historical Society Museum

I always say that the best place to get to know a destination and to truly understand how it was founded is at a local museum.

A visit to the Osage County Historical Society Museum (631 Topeka Ave) revealed that the county, originally established as Weller County in 1855 and renamed in 1859 for the Osage River, lay along the Santa Fe Trail. It ran through northern Osage County, passing through Overbrook, Scranton, and Burlingame.

Around 1860, coal was discovered in Carbondale, stimulating growth and attracting the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroad. Agricultural opportunities also attracted European immigrants to the area.

Take a self-guided tour of the Osage County Historical Society Museum to view locally sourced artifacts and curated photography, and if you’re from the area, inquire about their genealogy services.

NOTE: The museum is open April 1 through October 31 or by appointment.

Cattle & Clover Floral

Need a bouquet of fresh flowers for a dinner party? A house plant with hand soap to gift for a house-warming gift? Cattle & Clover Floral (720 N. Topeka Ave.) takes the guesswork out of last-minute gift giving.

The new owners have selected some of the best Kansas-sourced products to sell in the floral/gift shop. I was pleased to see KC Caramels on the shelf next to skincare products.

Refrigerated beef cuts from Wendling Farm and Cattle are regularly restocked in the reach-in cooler.

Poppy Boutique

Ladies, you’re going to want to shop at Poppy Boutique (714 Topeka Ave.). The women’s apparel and accessory business started as an online business and added the storefront for walk-in customers shopping for on-trend fashions.

Zenana and Risen denim, shoes, handbags, dresses, and hair accessories are beautifully displayed with seasonal merchandise front and center.

Carrying sizes ranging from XS to XXL, women will love mixing the latest styles with jewelry before checking out.

Smeeker’s Five & Dime

You know you’ve arrived at Smeeker’s Five & Dime (501 Topeka Ave.) when you spot the cat in a hat, Winky, sitting on the park bench in front of the store.

The variety store is full of personality, catering to the shopper who doesn’t know what they need until they find it.

Go for the inventory, which includes items ranging from sunglasses and disc golf supplies to vintage candy and seasonal decor.

The Wild Ones Bar & Grill

Locals know The Wild Ones Bar & Grill (609 Topeka Ave.) is where you go when you’re craving affordable bar-style grub.

The downtown hangout draws a casual crowd who leave their cares at the door.

Order a cold one with a cheeseburger and waffle fries or the daily special like Pork Rib Nachos, and enjoy it in good company.

The Burger Shack Diner

As I journeyed across the county, talking to residents, I heard good reviews of The Burger Shack Diner (1304 Topeka Ave), which I was told was a popular food truck-turned-restaurant.

One bite of my classic flat-top prepared cheeseburger confirmed the reviewer’s high praise. I opted for the perfectly crunchy onions and requested a side of ranch dressing for dipping because I’m from the Midwest, of course.

The 50’s diner menu includes classic dinner fare, and the specials on Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday feature fried seafood, wings, burgers, and a tenderloin sandwich. If you win the Ultimate Burger Challenge, you win a t-shirt.

PRO TIP: Leave room for an ice cream shake.

Cilantro’s Mexican Grille

One of the perks of dining in Lyndon is the dining scene, which includes Cilantro’s Mexican Grille (1715 Topeka Ave.).

The menu features specialties like taquitos, street tacos, burritos, and enchiladas for lunch or dinner. Happy Hour is served daily from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Pomona Lake Marina

Don’t save your vacation days. Use them at Pomona State Lake (5260 Pomona Dam Rd.), with its 4,000 acres of water and 52 miles of shoreline, for boating or fishing for crappie, catfish, wiper, bass, and walleye. A daily vehicle permit is $5 at the self-pay station.

The place to start your relaxing getaway is at Pomona Lake Marina (4009 Marina Rd.), where you can rent a pontoon boat or kayak, stock up on fuel, food, alcohol, snacks, rentals, marine and water sports equipment, or buy a souvenir t-shirt.

Towing your own boat to the lake? The marina has four boat ramps, and the cost is included in the park’s day pass.

Pomona Lake Marina has 9 docks and 149 slips/ The owners bring the fun by hosting an entertaining, free summer concert series, which draws large crowds of 500 to 2,000 music fans. Check the marina’s Facebook page to view the upcoming show lineup.

PRO TIP: Bring your own lawn chair and beverages for the concert.

Lamont Hill Golf Course

For those who love to spend their days on the links, Lamont Hill Golf Course (22975 Highway 368) is located across the road from the entrance of Pomona State Park.

Open seven days a week, the 18-hole course includes some hilly terrain with wide fairways that are surrounded by a residential neighborhood, a motel and RV park for overnight stays.

Photo Courtesy Jennifer Anshutz

You have no excuse to feel hungry while playing a round of golf, as the on-site restaurant serves a daily lunch special.

Osage City

Osage City, home to about 2,500 residents, is located on the north side of Salt Creek and is considered a railroad town. The Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad passes through the central part of the city from northeast to southwest. It was named one of the 8 Best Places to Retire in Kansas by worldatlas.com in 2024.

No matter where I looked, I saw locally owned stores, an inviting park or hiking trail. But it was one particular event that brought me to town, Smoke in the Spring.

Smoke in the Spring

If the idea of tasting mouthwatering, award-winning barbecue sounds like your kind of dining experience, attend Smoke in the Spring (517 S. 1st St.) the second weekend in April.

It’s a Kansas City-sanctioned BBQ Contest with dozens of competitors submitting their best smoked meat to earn the top spot per category. More than 20 vendors serve their meals every year during Taste of Osage City on Friday at 5 pm until the food runs out.

You can buy BBQ Bucks ($1 for 1) to purchase meals as well as bottled sauces and barbecue seasoning rubs sold on the north side of the Community Building.

Saturday evening entertainment includes live music and a rave-worthy fireworks show, capping off the event at 9 pm. Cocktails and beers are available for purchase using cash or BBQ Bucks.

I found that the lines to purchase barbecue at each food truck moved quickly, and there was little to no wait to buy ice cream or baked goods from local school groups. Despite the on-and-off rainy weather, people arrived in droves for the popular annual event.

Smoke in the Spring is a must-experience annual barbecue competition event in Osage City that I’m so glad I attended for its food trucks, vendors, and live music. You won’t want to miss it, so follow its Facebook page for announcements about next year’s festivities.

Marilynn’s Place

Marilynn’s Place (1216 Laing St.) is a casual restaurant offering stick-to-your-ribs country-style meals and a daily lunch special.

 

 

Open six days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, homestyle meals, ranging from smothered hamburger steak with mashed potatoes to a smoked pork chop.

Osage Garden & Produce

A visit to Osage City is not complete without shopping at Osage Garden & Produce (1048 Laing St.) for in-season vegetables, plants, and flowers.

During the summer, the retail shop is stocked with local/non-local produce, and a reach-in refrigerator is filled with Kansas-made products. The owners also sell their own jarred fruit jams.

They work diligently to carry a variety of annual flowers, as well as vegetable and herb plants that you don’t always see in a greenhouse. You’ll find a large selection of houseplants, succulents, and garden supplies indoors.

If I hadn’t been traveling for days, I would have purchased lush tomato starts or a bountiful hanging basket.

Becky and her staff are quite knowledgeable if you have questions about inventory. She frequently posts walk-through videos on the store’s Facebook page showcasing new merchandise and plants, which sell quickly.

Flint Hills Trail

It’s always nice to take a break from dining and shopping to get out in nature, and the Flint Hills Trail is ideal for a stroll or bike ride after a road trip.

The 188-mile rail-trail stretches from Osawatomie to Herington, passing through Osage City and nine towns and five counties. Cyclists love the maintained trail for its scenery, ranging from farmland to woodlands.

PRO TIP: I parked in a nearby commercial lot and accessed the trail at 513 N. 9th Street.

Ridge Iron Grill

Bring a friend to share conversation over a beer and a burger, sandwich, or loaded nachos at Ridge Iron Grill (611 Market St.) in downtown Osage City. Afterward, play a competitive game of darts while listening to live music.

While I didn’t get a chance to eat there, reviewers say the pork tenderloin sandwich and burgers are tasty.

KB SpecialTees

Shop KB SpecialTees (530 Market St.) makes custom-made shirts and gifts, and shoppers will be delighted to find items cute travel items for sale.

I loved the selection of Kedzie wallets and tote bags.

Need a baseball hat or t-shirt to show your lake life attitude? An Osage City keepsake or collegiate apparel for the upcoming game? KB’s SpecialTees carries it all.

Stay tuned to the store’s Facebook page for holiday-themed events or new apparel arrivals.

Osage Hardware

The couple who owns Osage Hardware (533 S. Market St.) deserves the small-business awards they’ve received over the years.

Of course, you’ll find household items, Paint Center, tools, grilling and camping gear. But you’ll be surprised by their elaborate outdoor garden center.

From May through October, the courtyard space transforms into an outdoor oasis featuring high-end tropical and in-season plants.

A flowing water feature is the anchor of a space, so breathtaking that families and couples often take pictures there.

The Railroad & Mining Museum/Santa Fe Depot

History seekers will want to stop at The Railroad & Mining Museum (508 Market St.), located inside a Spanish Mission-style Santa Fe Depot built in 1911.

It recently reopened after a dedicated volunteer brought it back to life, displaying hand-curated artifacts that showcase railroad and local history.

You can almost imagine the passengers awaiting their train’s arrival as they sat in the lobby with their tickets in hand.

Built along the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks, it’s one of two Mission Style depots left in the United States, according to Osage County News.

The museum’s curator is slowly adding more artifacts. Be sure to check out the railroad’s communication room, and don’t miss the framed photography. A few glass cases house memorabilia that Osage City residents will especially appreciate.

The museum is free to enjoy, although donations are appreciated.

Gilday’s Gas Station

A beautifully restored, vintage filing station across the street caught my eye. Gilday’s Gas Station (5th and Holiday Streets) anchors the corner and can be toured inside if you ask the railroad depot’s employee to unlock it.

Antique car enthusiasts will appreciate the White Eagle Gasoline pump out front, and a drive-thru bay offers a picture-worthy spot.

Osage City Municipal Golf Course

The highly-rated Osage City Municipal Golf Course (1401 S. 4th St.) is a 9-hole course with well-maintained fairways and greens.

If you’d prefer to get in some practice before a round, use the putting green or driving range to perfect your swing. The clubhouse includes a pro shop, snack bar, and patio for pre- or post-game relaxation.

Preview golf course and cart fees prior to arrival.

Osage City Disc Golf Course

Spend an hour getting some exercise playing the Osage City Disc Golf Course at Jones Park (712 S. Martin St.), a 9-hole course with concrete tees that is considered moderately difficult with flat terrain.

The course is free to play and is one of six disc golf courses in the county.

Osage City Public Library

In search of a place to escape the rain while killing some time, I discovered the Osage City Public Library (515 Main St.), which, to my surprise, was one of the most memorable stops on my road trip.

The staff greeted me warmly as a drop-in visitor, offering to make me a Keurig coffee ($1) and encouraging me to make myself at home using the library’s complimentary Wi-Fi.

Choosing a table next to the periodicals, I read a few magazines and relaxed.

They offer programs for all ages, ranging from book signings for adults to story time for young readers. A room dedicated to Kansas history is a genealogy researcher’s resource.

Burlingame

Towns in Osage County don’t get much more charming than Burlingame, a one-time Santa Fe Trail stop and a coal mining town founded in 1854. Originally named Council City, the farming community was renamed two years later.

The town has just under 1,000 residents, and it appeals to visitors who want to combine historical stops with downtown shopping and dining. The town claims to have the Widest Brick Main Street in the United States, where cars can also park in the middle.

Council City Coffee Co.

Your first stop in Burlington should be Council City Coffee Co. (110 Sw Santa Fe Ave) to fuel up with a coffee or tea drink and a locally made pastry (gluten-free available!) by The Forgotten Grain Bakery & Bistro.

I noted the sidewalk menu board advertising drink specials and chose to order a latté and what has to be the best-tasting carrot cake muffin I’ve ever enjoyed.

The coffee shop, which resembles something you would expect in a city, fittingly uses The Roasterie Coffee Company beans sourced from Kansas City.

If you don’t prefer coffee, ask about the homemade old-fashioned sodas and energy drinks.

Council City Coffee is a must-stop, especially if you like to cozy up with a caffeinated beverage and a baked treat while working on a laptop or chatting with friendly locals. Kids will seek out the reading nook.

Charming Historic Loft Vacation Rental

If you’re seeking a place to stay overnight (and love coffee!), I can think of no better place to reserve than the Charming Historic Loft vacation rental located directly above Council City Coffee.

The second-floor, two-bedroom, two-bathroom loft space comes with modern amenities in a meticulously renovated 120+ year-old brick building.

Plus, a stay includes coffee drinks for two guests each day at Council City Coffee downstairs.

PK Country Designs

What do you get when you combine the creativity and ambition of a mother-daughter duo? One of the state’s most wonderful gift stores, PK Country Designs (112 W. Santa Fe), sells handcrafted items.

Open on Saturdays, the retail shop’s inventory features products from 12 makers that blend a rustic/rural aesthetic with on-trend items.

In one corner of the store, you may find farmhouse-style decor and metal art, while other shelves display hand-poured candles and jewelry. A clothing rack features on-trend women’s blouses and dresses.

You’ll find it difficult to leave the shop without a gift in hand for yourself or someone else.

Not only does the shop feature handcrafted gifts and home decor, but it also stocks well-known food brands such as Wind & Willow and Holmes Salsa. Don’t leave without adding a fresh-baked cupcake to your order at checkout.

Patty and Kelly also teach craft classes and seasonal open house events, which they announce on the store’s Facebook page.

The Den

Drop into The Den (106 W. Santa Fe Ave.), a massive sports bar catering to the daytime and after-work crowd who prefer to unwind with a cold beer or cocktail and a meal while watching the game.

I stopped by early in my tour of Burlingame, so I didn’t order anything to eat but I was impressed with the sports bar and grill’s menu and lunch specials.

Online reviewers rave about the mac-n-cheese, burgers, and sauced bone-in chicken wings. I’ll definitely be back to try them.

Sweet Savings Bank Ice Cream Parlor

That sweet smell? It’s freshly prepared waffle cones. You’ll find Sweet Savings Bank Ice Cream Parlor’s (102 W. Santa Fe Ave.) selection of premium hand-scooped ice cream and Sundaes Your Way hard to resist.

And I can vouch that their giant milk chocolate chunk cookie (larger than a dinner plate) is soft and scrumptious.

If you prefer soft-serve ice cream, order a Concrete with toppings and sauces of your choice. Families should try a flight of six to twelve scoop flavors.

And if you bring your dog along on your trip, you are in luck because the ice cream shop offers Pup Cups free with purchase.

Burlingame Schuyler Museum

The motto of the Burlingame Schuyler Museum (117 S. Dacotah St.) is “preserving the past for the future,” and the volunteers that operate it do an excellent job of organizing and displaying the history of the Santa Fe Trail and Burlingame heritage under one roof.

Actually, my guided tour started in a separate building that houses a meticulously restored 1938 Ford Pumper Open Cab fire truck. Used in parades when not on display, it represents the region’s proud firefighting history and those who put their lives on the line.

The museum, located inside a former school building, has thematic rooms.

Pioneer history and agriculture. A replica one-room schoolhouse. A 1960s nuclear missile silo diorama. Sports memorabilia and trophies earned by local athletes.

Each room’s contents tells a visual story of the people and historical moments that made Burlingame unique.

Open to tour for free on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 1 pm to 4 pm, the museum also hosts various events, from Kansas Day celebrations to quilt shows and rummage sales.

PRO TIP: Don’t leave the museum without asking to walk into the basement to view a replica coal mine.

Historic Landmarks & Sites

Kansas Chapter of the Daughters of the Revolution Santa Fe Trail Marker

Burlingame is “where the Santa Railway Crosses the Santa Fe Trail,” a place where European immigrants settled during the late 1800s to work in coal mines.

So, it’s fitting that the Kansas Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Santa Fe Trail Marker, recognizes this historic site.

It is dedicated to Mrs. Fannie Geiger Thompson, a civic leader who proposed that the markers preserve the trail’s history across the state.

School Bell Memorial Project

The first school in Burlingame was established in a wagon suspended between two cabins. Eventually, a proper schoolhouse was built on a hill in 1869, and a bronze bell was installed a year later.

Over time, the bell was relocated several times and pulled in and out of storage. Fred Diver, a school board member, wanted it to ring again and the School Bell Memorial Project began.

The bell was repaired and rang again for the first time after 75 years. It stands as a permanent display at a memorial sculpture in front of the Burlingame Junior/Senior High School (417 N Dacotah St.), where it is rung when the football team scores a touchdown.

Will you ring the bell when you visit? Take note of the unique bricks added to the back of the memorial wall.

Federated Church of Burlingame Organ

Installed in 1909, the Estey A2 Opus 635 pipe organ inside the Federated Church of Burlingame (322 S. Topeka Ave.) features 506 pipes and an electric blower.

Its massive size and awe-inspiring beauty are complemented by three stained-glass, towering windows on the opposite side of the sanctuary, best admired indoors.

PRO TIP: To view the organ and windows, check the hours for the Federated Church of Burlingame.

Superior Schoolhouse

Another important stop on the self-guided tour of historic Burlingame is the Superior Schoolhouse, which is located two miles south of Burlingame on Highway 56.

Built in 1902, it has been painstakingly preserved, a reminder of the town of Superior that no longer exists.

A portrait of George Washington hangs on the wall above the restored wood-beam flooring. Sun floods the empty room from tall windows adorned with yellow curtains.

Civil War Memorial Statue at Burlingame Community Cemetery

One should visit the Civil War Memorial Statue at the Burlingame Community Cemetery, located one mile south of Burlingame on Topeka Avenue.

It represents those who gave all for the war effort. The cemetery has more than 250 Civil War burials, and 230 of them were town residents.

 

Overall, Burlingame offers so much to do and see for a town of its size.

You’ll want to plan your trip around the town’s annual events, including the PRA-sponsored Rodeo Days (third weekend in May), and Country Christmas (first Saturday in December).

Scranton

The town of Scranton was founded in the late 1800s by coal-mining families. Although its population is slightly more than 650 residents, it thrives thanks to its proximity to area attractions, Saturdays in the Park, and two sought-after restaurants.

The Drunk Bernard Tavern

A long-standing tavern on the corner, The Drunk Bernard Tavern (301 S. Brownie Blvd.) is the locals’ hangout and go-to place for stacked burgers like The Big Dog or The Hell Hound.

Also known for its Taco Tuesday special, the menu features a short list of Mexican-inspired specialty meals, and I can vouch that the taco salad was a satisfying lunch.

The owner, Ryan, wanted to create a place where people would want to “watch the game on Sundays,” and the tavern hosts live music on the first Saturday of every month during spring and summer.

I could easily see how the tavern would attract a game day crowd or those looking for an after-work drink and a meal.

PRO TIP: If you’re a dog person, check out the photo of the owner’s Saint Bernard above the bar.

Four Corners Steakhouse and Lounge

Locals will tell you that a stop at Four Corner Steakhouse and Lounge (15745 S. Topeka Ave.) is a must when in Scranton, open seven days a week. The parking lot is usually full of cars.

Since 1994, diners have enjoyed country-style lunch and dinner specials, hearty Mexican Night meals, pasta entrees, and sandwiches. The restaurant and the menu items are named in honor of The Duke, the actor John Wayne.

Carbondale

Carbondale gets its name from the Carbon Coal Company, from which the town gets its roots. As you drive into town, you’ll notice its hilly terrain and the charming neighborhoods surrounding its central business district.

If you park downtown, you’re within walking distance of the public library and a family-friendly must-stop, the ice cream shop.

Weg’s Ice Cream Shop

Owned and operated by a retired pipefitter and current volunteer firefighter, Weg’s Ice Cream Shop (224 Main St.) serves hand-scooped premium ice cream, soft-serve ice cream sandwiches, shakes, and kettle corn.

The dessert stop is open nearly every day of the week, and the digital sign above the shop advertises its hours. Bring the kids for Movies in the Courtyard on Saturdays during the summer from 6 to 9 pm when the owner projects family-friendly films.

PRO TIP: Weg sells “ugly Oreo® ice cream sandwiches” by the bag (the ones that don’t meet his perfection standard) at a discount.

Carbondale City Library

The Carbondale City Library (302 Main St.) is considered the “front porch of the community,” offering residents and visitors events to enjoy, from plant swaps, bingo games, and craft classes.

The library operates shortened hours on Saturdays, so I missed checking it out. Open Monday-Saturday, preview its hours before your arrival.

Carbondale City Park

A stop at the Carbondale City Park (302 Main St.) is well worth it, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a leashed dog who needs to stretch its legs.

If you visit from late May through October on a Wednesday from 4 to 6 pm, you’ll see the local Lions Club-sponsored Farmers Market in progress.

Photo by Jennifer Anshutz

Carbondale City Hall

Should you need to ask a general question about Carbondale or its upcoming events like a city-wide garage sale, a great resource is the Carbondale City Hall (234 Main St.).

Bonus things to do in the area include fishing, boating, and hiking at Carbondale East and West Lake, located 2 miles east of town.

And if you’re road-tripping during autumn, the Carbondale Fall Festival and Street Dance is a can’t-miss Main Street event with food trucks, vendors, a parade, and an evening street dance. Consider attending the town’s annual Christmas in Carbondale community gathering, held on the first Sunday of December.

Overbrook

My final stop traversing Osage County took me to Overbrook, and when I spotted the water tower’s message “Don’t Overlook Overbrook,” I knew I was in for a treat.

For a town of about 1,000 residents, it has a lot going for it. I’d recommend spending a half-day exploring Overbook to fish on its lake, shop downtown, and walk the nature trails.

Sunflower Bakery

Make your first stop in downtown Overbook at the Sunflower Bakery (307 Maple) for a specialty coffee prepared by the town’s mayor, Jon Brady, who sports a cap reading The World’s Best Barista.

He makes a delicious Brown Sugar Iced Coffee with Vanilla Cold Foam. And while it’s certainly delicious, the homemade pies and cinnamon rolls are the primary reasons to visit.

The bakery, situated inside a restored historic building, is an inviting space with family-size tables. The space is tastefully decorated with sunflowers, including a hand-painted mural by Tammy Metzger.

On an average day, Jon’s wife, Joanna, bakes 20 pies and 100 cinnamon rolls. My slice of blueberry pie and a cinnamon roll were the best I’ve tasted in the state.

PRO TIP: Preview available pie flavors at the bakery’s Facebook page.

Overbrook Public Library

After a delightful coffee and pie moment, walk down the street to the Overbook Public Library (317 Maple).

You don’t have to be an Overbook resident to relax with a book in the stacks or drop in for one of its events.

Overbook Quilt Connection

You know you’re at Overbrook Quilt Connection (500 Maple) when you see a towering old tree with plastic flamingos attached to it.

It’s that kind of whimsy that quilters will appreciate in the store’s inventory and displayed projects.

Vicky Lawrence, the store’s in-house quilt designer, is renowned for her patterns and projects. A new block is announced monthly.

The shop produces live Facebook videos every Saturday to announce new fabric panels and half-pack quilt arrivals, and YouTube live demonstration videos.

I’ve toured dozens of quilt shops across the Midwest, and Overbrook Quilt Connection is well worth the visit.

Cooper Moose Market

The Cooper Moose Market (313 Maple) is a picker’s paradise, a thrift store with a variety of antiques and handcrafted gifts for the home.

During my visit, I saw quite a few seasonal items, and the Christmas tree in the front corner of the store is a great place to find a souvenir of your trip to Overbrook.

Any of the artwork you see was likely created by incarcerated people, as the shop also serves as a charity for the prison ministry.

Note: It’s open exclusively on Saturdays.

TJ’s Mainstreet Grill

From  Tuesday through Saturday, there is a meal special worth savoring at TJ’s Mainstreet Grill (311 Maple).

Features like hamburger steaks, patty melts, and taco salads with chips bring regulars to the restaurant. If you want to see the day’s meal special, the owner posts it to the restaurant’s Facebook page.

Landon Trail

Park at the Landon Trail to walk, run, or ride your bike along 24 miles of gravel trail that was formerly the Missouri-Pacific Railroad.

It’s the only American trail to link the Oregon National Historic Trail with the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, according to Kanza Trails.

Surrounded by woodland and prairies, the trailhead is tucked away near the Overbrook Vet. Keep a lookout for a sign when driving along Maple Street.

Santa Fe Trail Marker

Overbrook, founded in 1886, was named at the suggestion of a railroad worker from Overbrook, Pennsylvania. The Kansas, Nebraska, & Dakota railroad was built through the area.

The town was also a major stop on the Santa Fe Trail, and a historical marker noting its significance is located in front of the post office on Main Street. I nearly missed it, so take my advice and look in the landscaping.

Overbrook City Lake

For a town of its size, Overbrook City Lake, with access to fishing, impresses. The wind cut through the trees as I walked along the sidewalk around the lake, stopping periodically at a bench to enjoy the sunny weather.

While swimming isn’t allowed, you’ll find plenty of anglers dropping a line or two during the day. It’s a quiet, peaceful place.

If you bring a tackle box and fishing pole, don’t forget your Kansas State fishing license (ages 16+).

The fun continues. Overbook is known for its inviting annual events, namely its 4th of July Celebration and Children’s Fishing Derby, both held in the same month.

What a whirlwind trip! My two-night, three-day trip exploring Osage County was a full itinerary, and I know you’ll love your travel experiences as much as I did.

Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure. Pick one town or tour them all.

If you plan to extend your road trip through northeast Kansas, consider using my blog post, Kansas Getaway: Top Things To Do in Coffey County During an Overnight Stay to inspire your travels to more nearby lakes.