Disclosure: The Willa Cather Foundation and Visit Red Cloud sponsored my trip. All opinions and photographs are my own.
In Red Cloud, Nebraska, literary history meets community spirit, creating a visit-worthy town only six miles beyond the North-Central Kansas border.
Known as the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather, its downtown is a hub where community is truly felt wherever you go. Even if you’re not visiting to dive into Willa Cather’s history, Red Cloud offers something for every kind of traveler, from shopping to dining and museums. And the town’s boutique hotel is positively charming.
Luxury Lodging
Hotel Garber
Hotel Garber (346 N. Webster) is a stylish boutique hotel worthy of an overnight stay. Featuring 26 guest rooms, including a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite, it is a beautiful addition to downtown Red Cloud.
Developers revitalized a historic building, restoring it to its three-story grandeur. Initially built in 1902, guests feel at home amid modern furnishings in spacious lounges and high-ceiling guest rooms.
My Standard King Room was perfect for me as a solo traveler and included the in-room amenities I seek when booking a stay.
After a day of exploring Red Cloud, I spent my evenings reading a Willa Cather book by lamplight from bed or watching television. Thanks to high-speed Wi-Fi, I was able to get some work done on my laptop.
Guests have access to a complimentary continental breakfast buffet served in the Creative Hub, which includes self-serve eggs, bacon, muffins, toast, oatmeal, yogurt, and drinks.
You’ll definitely want to grab a drink and dinner at Forrester’s Restaurant & Lounge, when it’s open in the evening.
Choose from seven signature cocktails, many of which are a nod to Willa Cather’s book characters, like the O-Pioneers Paloma. Eight wines are available by the glass or bottle, and they have a short list of whiskey, bourbon, scotch, and craft beers.
I relaxed with a smoked old-fashioned cocktail before savoring braised beef served with a squash-corn salad from the chef’s seasonal menu. The dining room stirred with small groups of local families and friends who dropped by for cocktails and conversation.
Paired with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, the chef’s creation was scrumptious and well-suited for a fabulous fall evening dinner.
Check Forrester’s Restaurant and Lounge hours in advance, especially if you’re interested in dinner service.
Hotel Garber’s staff exceeded my expectations by ensuring my comfort during my two-night stay, often asking whether I needed anything and offering tourism advice when requested.
There is a reason Hotel Garber receives 5-star reviews. View guest rooms and reserve your stay.
Must-Have Experiences
National Willa Cather Center
Esteemed novelist Willa Cather wrote, “I would rather go home to Red Cloud than any of the beautiful cities in Europe where I used to love to go.”
She truly loved her childhood home, and Nebraskans early welcomed her back when she visited as an adult.
At the National Willa Cather Center (413 N. Webster), the writer’s legacy is honored through a museum, guided tours, and a bookstore. The non-profit foundation keeps the writer’s legacy alive by maintaining historic sites and hosting events, such as an author series.
I explored the American Bittersweet: The Life and Writing of Willa Cather exhibit, highlighting the author’s personal and professional life by reading the displays in chronological order, starting with her formative years in Red Cloud.
Situated in a restored 1887 building, the exhibit’s photography brings Cather’s story to life. She worked tirelessly as a magazine editor for years, a job that honed her skills and accelerated her book-writing career.
A visit to the National Willa Cather Center isn’t complete without stepping into a bonus room located beyond the exhibit. There, I discovered a full-scale, bronze statue of the author by Omaha artist Littleton Alston. It’s similar to the one situated at the U.S. Capitol.
PRO TIP: Take the elevator upstairs to view another Cather statue and a gallery of historical photographs taken of Red Cloud residents during the 19th Century.
Guided Seven-Building Tour
I immersed myself in Cather’s life story by taking the 90-minute Guided Seven-Building Tour around Red Cloud, following my guide in my car.
At each stop, from the Burlington Depot to Cather’s childhood home, an expert guide explained the significance of each location in Cather’s upbringing.
Burlington Depot
The morning sunshine warmed the exterior of the Burlington Depot (437 W. Welsch) as my guide pointed out its architecture. Technically, this is the town’s third train depot building, built in 1897.
The depot is mentioned in Cather’s short story “The Sculpture’s Funeral.”
Cather, who revisited Red Cloud many times, traveled to and from her hometown by train.
St. Juliana Falconieri Catholic Church
If you’ve read Cather’s book, “My Ántonia,” then you’re familiar with Cather’s main character, who her real-life friend, Anna Pavelka, inspired.
St. Juliana Falconieri Catholic Church (425 W. 3rd) is where Pavelka’s first child was baptized and where she was wed.
J.L. Miner House
A tour of the J.L. Miner House (241 N. Seward) reveals the personality of the family who once lived there, including Cather’s childhood playmate, Mary Miner.
She also befriended Carrie Miner, the same woman to whom her book “My Ántonia” is dedicated. The family inspired Cather’s characters, the Harling family.
As you tour the home, it’s clear it was considered one of the nicest in the community when it was built in 1878. Large rooms, gold-plated dishware, and oversized windows impress.
Grace Episcopal Church
Cather joined the Grace Episcopal Church (546 N. Cedar) at age 50. Inside the Gothic revival-style structure, beautiful hand-painted windows are illuminated on a blue-sky day.
The church held a memorial service for Cather in 1947, including two windows that the author had made and dedicated to her parents.
Willa Cather Childhood Home
For me, the most anticipated visit on the tour is the Willa Cather Childhood Home (245 Cedar). The family resided there from 1884-1904.
A tour of the National Historic Landmark includes descriptions of original furniture pieces, artwork, and prints.
The most interesting room in the house is Cather’s childhood bedroom, which visitors are allowed to peer into but not to explore because of its delicate original wallpaper.
Cather installed the rose-colored wallpaper in the attic bedroom.
Farmers & Merchants Bank
Visitors to the Farmers & Merchants Bank (338 N. Webster) will likely be awestruck by its architectural beauty. Constructed by Silas Garber, the founder of Red Cloud, its Colorado stone façade and marble steps make a statement.
Elaborate teller cages shipped by rail from Chicago anchor the main floor of the 1888 bank building. Downstairs, visitors have access to interpretive panels about Red Cloud’s history.
The Garbers inspired Cather to develop characters in “A Lost Lady.”
Red Cloud Opera House
The final stop on the guided tour is the Red Cloud Opera House (411 N. Webster), which sits adjacent to the National Willa Cather Center. Visitors can view the stage where Cather once delivered her high school commencement speech, and where the signatures of performers are scribbled on the backstage walls.
Built in the 1890s, the Red Cloud Opera House continues to host theatrical and musical performances.
PRO TIP: Taking a self-guided tour of town? Download the National Willa Cather Center mobile app.
WPA Mural Panels at the Red Cloud Post Office
During the Great Depression, the WPA’s Federal Art Project commissioned artists to paint murals inside public spaces.
The WPA mural panels at the Red Cloud Post Office (310 N. Webster) by artist Archie Musik depict the white settlement of the town and the Indian tribes’ westward movement.
These stunning works of art are available to view year-round in the lobby, which is open 24 hours a day.
Red Cloud Community Center
I stopped by the Red Cloud Community Center (142 W. 3rd Avenue) during the town’s annual Light the Night Holiday Market to shop from vendors selling hand-crafted art and photography. Carolers sang as local artisans chatted with shoppers creating a delightful holiday setting.
The venue often hosts public events, so check for upcoming activities.
Webster County Historical Museum
Open April through October, the Webster County Historical Museum features exhibits on local history and has recently added a new permanent exhibit about the Starke Round Barn.
Visitors can also expect to view Victorian-era clothing, military artifacts, and collections supporting exhibits about the people and places of Webster County.
I wasn’t able to visit the museum during its off-season, but I was able to admire the home’s exterior and grounds, which includes the original water fountain that once sat at the intersection of Webster and US Highway 136.
Delicious Dining
On the Brix
Open Thursday through Saturday evenings, On the Brix (437 Webster) serves wine, classic cocktails, craft beer, and small bites in a relaxed setting.
I arrived in Red Cloud on a Monday, and the owner of On the Brix went above and beyond, preparing a beautiful charcuterie board with an array of cheese, sausage, and fruit for me to enjoy in my guest room at Hotel Garber.
Served with a small bottle of rosé Prosecco, I felt pampered during my first evening in Red Cloud.
On the Brix also serves delicious soups and desserts, which pair nicely with seasonal cocktail menu selections, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
The Palace Lounge
If you’re craving a stacked, juicy hamburger, there’s no better place to dine than The Palace Lounge (125 W. 4th Street), and the daily lunch and dinner specials keep locals coming back.
The day’s burger special, a Mushroom & Swiss CheeseBurger with a side salad, was prepared fresh to order from an open kitchen. A lounge bar resembling something you might see in an old-school supper club served locals.
I struck up a conversation with the owners, who are die-hard live-music fans and often travel for concerts. The walls of the restaurant are covered with framed albums and guitars signed by bands like The Eagles and Def Leppard.
Sports memorabilia signed by some of the best in their sport, like Mike Tyson’s boxing gloves, adorned the walls.
The food alone is well worth stopping at The Palace Lounge, and the owner’s collection of music souvenirs makes it a true hidden gem you have to see.
PRO TIP: View the Daily Specials menu before planning your visit. Prime Rib brings a crowd on Thursday nights.
Sure-Win Shopping
Village Pharmacy
Village Pharmacy (317 N. Webster) is much more than a place to shop for your medicine cabinet needs. It offers a wide selection of gifts, from home decor to clothing and body products.
The pharmacy also sells flavored coffee and caffeinated cold tea drinks.
Mark Dahle Art Gallery / Red Cloud Film Club
Red Cloud has a vibrant artist community. At Mark Dahle Art Gallery (333 N. Webster), you’ll discover over 300 color-saturated abstract paintings and photography in an 8,000 square-foot space.
Originally from Alaska and raised by an art teacher, Dahle’s artistic style sometimes focuses on a theme, but always includes vibrant color and varying brush strokes on canvas.
PRO TIP: Also a cinephile, Dahle runs the Red Cloud Film Club at the gallery, which offers free weekly public screenings.
The Corner Nook
Stop by for a flavored latté or frothy coffee drink at The Corner Nook (345 N. Webster), and while you’re there, shop the cafe’s retail store featuring clothing, jewelry, and home decorations.
Comfortable couches and sun-drenched tables by the windows invite you to cozy up with a latté or smoothie to read a book or watch downtown traffic go by.
I met the friendliest locals when ordering a coffee, so we sat down and talked about all things Red Cloud, including what makes the town so welcoming. It’s the kind of people who look out for each other and want the best for the community, a real sense of community spirit.
Abundant Life Honey
Stop by Abundant Life Honey (209 W. 4th Avenue) to shop for locally sourced honey products run by a local family. From pocket-sized honey jars to larger bottles and individually packaged honeycomb, Abundant Life carries it.
PRO TIP: If the retail location is closed during your visit, you can find their honey for sale at Hometown Market (426 Webster) or Main Street Mercantile in nearby Lebanon, Kansas.
The Wackee Cactus Boutique
The newest store to open in Red Cloud is The Wackee Cactus Boutique (309 N. Webster), and I had the pleasure of shopping at the home decor and floral store on its grand opening night.
The owner has curated a vast selection of seasonal gift items, and the upstairs clothing racks feature women’s and children’s on-trend apparel. You’ll be shocked at the bargain pricing for the new shirts and jackets.
Events To Plan Your Trip Around
Light the Night Holiday Market
Red Cloud looks like a Hallmark greeting card during their annual Light the Night Holiday Market held in late November.
Downtown store windows are decorated, families enjoy horse-drawn carriage hayrack rides, the stores are open late, and Santa makes an appearance at Hotel Garber.
Willa Cather Spring Conference
The town’s most famous resident and award-winning author’s life is celebrated at the Willa Cather Spring Conference in June, which draws literary fans and writers to listen to speakers and attend programs.
Other tourism-worthy events include the Webster County Fair & Rodeo, located in nearby Bladen, Nebraska, and Red Cloud Street Car Days. View a complete list of upcoming Red Cloud events.
Bonus Things To Do In the Area
Alley Cats
I never miss an opportunity to lace up a pair of rental bowling shoes and take to the lanes.
Unfortunately, Alley Cats (129 E. 4th Avenue) was closed during my stay in Red Cloud, but I’m told its lanes, billiards, and restaurant meals keep the good times rolling.
View the Alley Cats Facebook page to glimpse the week’s restaurant specials.
Bison Mural
On a quest to find public art, I asked a local who passed me on the sidewalk downtown how to find the Bison Mural, and I was told to drive to the southern edge of town and look for a towering grain bin.
Sure enough, it appeared from the horizon as I traveled along Highway 281, an unmistakable point of interest. A charcoal sketch by Bethany Ugalde, an artist from Mexico, was transferred onto panels to wrap around the galvanized steel structure.
PRO TIP: You can park your car at the grain bin’s lot. Shoot a photo at sunrise or sunset.
Willa Cather Memorial Prairie
I’m from the Midwest, so the idea of standing surrounded by 612 acres of native prairie and listening to the tall buffalo grass sway and rustle in the wind is something I’ll cherish from my time in Red Cloud.
At the Willa Cather Memorial Prairie, a short drive from town, you can pull off and park to learn more about the untouched landscape and its ecosystem.
The preserved prairie is considered a National Birding Site, a home to meadowlarks, wild turkeys, and grassland sparrows.
PRO TIP: Wildflower season lasts from April through October, and two miles of trail offers breathtaking views.
Nebraska Border Sign
Across Highway 281 from the Willa Cather Memorial Prairie is the Nebraska Border Sign, welcoming newcomers to the Cornhusker State, and only six miles south of Red Cloud.
The Geographic Center of the 48 Contiguous States
If you’re traveling to Red Cloud, you must stand in The Geographic Center of the Contiguous States. A stone monument with an American flag marks the roadside attraction, recognizing this landmark at High 281 North to HWY 191 West, outside of Lebanon.
Be sure to walk inside the site’s little white chapel, which is always open. It’s the same church used in a JEEP® Super Bowl LV commercial staring rock legend Bruce Springsteen.
Nearby Towns That You Should Explore
Lebanon
Don’t miss your chance to visit Lebanon, Kansas, en route to and from Red Cloud. Just about 200 residents call the agricultural town home, welcoming visitors to view its eateries, historic jail, and restored gas station-turned visitors center.
My first stop was the Visitor Center (502 Kansas Ave), located inside a restored old gas station that is open but unmanned during daylight hours. I signed the guestbook, and picked up a complimentary Kansas road map.
Across the street, I discovered the 1910 Lebanon City Jail surrounded by green space, which locals tells me is the where the town hosts live music during the community’s Oktoberfest celebration.
Main Street Mercantile
I heard only positive things about Main Street Mercantile (415 Main Street). Part grocery store, part restaurant with a bar, it’s the go-to place for locals and visitors who will appreciate its down-home charm.
Not only does the locally owned market carry Kansas-made products and merchandise, but people drive from miles around to shop its meat selection, sourced from area beef and pork farmers.
Folks from Red Cloud raved about Main Street Mercantile’s daily lunch special, an ever-changing buffet featuring a hot main course selection with side dishes and a salad bar option. Dessert is always a wise option.
My ham dinner lunch tasted like mom’s home cooking, and at $11, it was a bargain.
PRO TIP: Weigh your buffet plates on the scale after serving yourself, then note its weight/price on the paper. Give the grocery store clerk the tab of paper to pay for your meal before departing.
Make Extra Stops on the Way Home
Nebraska
Are you staying in Nebraska? When departing Red Cloud, consider driving about 150 miles Northeast to Lincoln, Nebraska. Steal my itinerary for a weekend getaway designed for couples who seek unique experiences.
Kansas
If you’re traveling North-Central Kansas after leaving Red Cloud via I-35, use my ideas for things to do in Salina, McPherson, and Newton.
Driving east instead? Consider stops in Courtland, Scandia, or Belleville, which are three towns that offer antiquing, a brewery, the Pawnee Indian Museum, and an auto racing museum.
Fortunately, these museums document the story of those who chose Kansas as their home. Museum-goers can time-travel back in history, imagining what life must have been like for its early residents, visiting one museum at a time.
The contributions of Kansas Department of Wildlife, volunteers, and supporters make Maxwell Wildlife Refuge what it is today, one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography.
Keeping warm with a lap blanket, we listened to volunteer tour guide, Les, inform us about native grasses and wildlife.
The looks on the kids’ faces was precious as each one became captivated by the narrative.
Parents snapped photos and chatted amongst themselves between bites of cupcakes and cookies. Afterward, Santa gifted a holiday-themed goodie bag to each child.
My take-home gift? I purchased postcards featuring photography taken by volunteers. Elk stood statuesque at sunset. Bison graze on prairie grasses under illuminated Kansas clouds.
I couldn’t resist taking my photo with Santa, who was eager to meet me. Perhaps I was the only adult who snapped a photo with the jolly ol’ guy? I felt like a kid again hoping for his approval and excited to tell him my Christmas wish.
You can also 
When visiting Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, consider exploring nearby towns to grab a meal and see the sites.
The region is best known for its covered bridges and awe-inspiring views—towns like Winterset, St. Charles, and nearby Orient offer incredible dining, one-of-a-kind shopping, and unequaled museums.
Spending a weekend exploring Madison County will make you fall in love with it like I did.
I thought the Reuben on marble rye bread, a cup of homemade Strawberry Soup, and a glass of iced raspberry tea was divine. Sharing a towering lemon meringue pie, we chatted about Winterset and the town’s history.
PRO TIP: The eatery is open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., with limited seating. Small groups should reserve a table in advance. Add a few minutes of extra time to your lunch to peruse the restaurant’s displayed antiques – many of which are for sale.
A self-guided tour of Clark Tower was, by far, my favorite discovery. We traversed a narrow, one-mile road by car to the top of a curvy hill en route to it. Built in 1926 in honor of early settlers, the limestone landmark resembles something from a fairy tale.
Another park feature not to be missed includes the whimsical chainsaw sculptures by Iowa artist Gary Keenan. The English Hedge Maze leads to a sundial, and an adjacent bocce ball court invites parkers to play a game.
Nearby Bennett Cabin and Cutler-Donahue Bridge, each built in the 1800s, are photo-worthy attractions.
Seek out the stone bridge for another photo moment. It’s the location where Robert and Francesca’s movie scene was filmed.
PRO TIP: Traveling with kids? Prepare to explore the park and its play features for at least an hour.
Spanning 79 feet, the bridge is within walking distance of the road that winds through the park. You’ll appreciate the stone bridge, also nearby, the site of the movie’s film scene where Robert and Francesca enjoy a picnic.
Parking is available nearby, and the path to the bridge is easy to navigate.
After sampling red and white drier varieties, we ultimately bought a bottle of LaCresent 2021 (2017 Mid-American Wine Competition Silver winner) to bring home.
Whether you drop in for a glass of wine in the tasting room or on the patio overlooking the valley, I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. They don’t push wine on you to try, and instead serve you “whichever wine you like to drink.”
At 
During our visit, we chose to sit on the front porch to watch as summer rainstorm clouds developed. I sipped Lime Habanero Hard Cider, which finished sweet and sampled another favorite, John Wayne Bone Dry Hard Cider. Each one tasted crisp with authentic flavor.
PRO TIP: Check the 
You’ll appreciate the scenic view at this one. Like each covered bridge in the county, it was renovated in the 1990s to maintain its beauty.
Unfortunately, the bridge fell victim to arson twice in recent years and had to be reconstructed. The replica reminds us of the sentiment shared by the movie’s characters portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep.
He lived in Winterset until age seven. As a boy, he walked about town with his brother and dog, Duke. Eventually taking on the nickname Duke, the family moved to California in 1914. The actor starred in 170 films.
The first stop? The museum’s theater room for a short film highlighting his achievements. Next, take a self-guided tour of each of the two galleries.
I was curious about the actor’s collection of coffee mugs – he had a keepsake mug made for each movie. Handwritten letters, a car, clothing, and an address book were some of the personal items included in the collection.
PRO TIP: I recommend devoting at least an hour to touring the birthplace home and museum if you like to read each panel. Review the John Wayne In Iowa map showing the family’s moves across the state.
I was impressed to find a basket of free produce available near the checkout counter, which I assumed came from the community garden behind the library outside.
Modern benches with historical references were added to the park. I enjoyed learning about how George Washington Carver wandered into Winterset, where he lived and worked for two years.
An art alley with interactive murals is adjacent to the Madison County Courthouse. Artists James Navarro and Katie Jensen intended visitors to discover ways to pose with the paintings.
We shared a charcuterie board while sipping craft beers as a prelude to dinner. The Drift Salad and Roast Beef Panini served on locally sourced bread made the dining experience exceptional.
PRO TIP: If you’re not a craft beer drinker (21 Iowa beers on tap!), ask about wine and mead selections. Non-alcoholic beers are an option.
A restored 1908 country home turned 
A short drive from dining, shopping, and museums in Winterset, it was perfect for us. We watched the movie The Bridges Over Madison County at night while drinking champagne in a room surrounded by antiques and framed artwork.
The charming home had every comfort we wanted, and to be honest, I loved the experience so much that I wished the house was for sale so we could buy it.
The creak of the original wood floors.The sunset view from the porch. I loved our stay, as will you.
From fresh groceries to retro candy and sodas to home decor and toys, you’ll find something you can’t leave the store without. I purchased a scented candle, Fresh Cut Grass.
PRO TIP: Kids get a free used book when they visit, and the monthly book club selections keep shoppers returning for new reads.
The clothing, shoes, and accessories for sale are on-trend, including the latest seasonal fashions. The inviting store features a stroller parking zone and interactive spaces for kiddos, such as a push-and-listen station (are those bees buzzing?) and a toy treasure box.
In preparation for fall, I noticed an abundance of witchy decor items; however, they may sell similar whimsical gifts year-round.
Seasonal floral picks and sit-a-bouts are arranged in vignettes throughout the store.
Most of the jewelry is handmade by the owner. Silver spoons are crafted into rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Shoppers in search of faith-based finds will appreciate the store’s inventory.
PRO TIP: Like what you see here but can’t make it to the shop? Visit her 
I loved how each houseplant was given a name to make the shopping experience more fun. I couldn’t leave without buying a handcrafted greeting card for our house host.
PRO TIP: Visit the 
We enjoyed a five-sample tasting of wines of our choice while visiting with the owner/winemaker. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the process of wine production from vine to glass while we enjoyed a platter of artisan cheeses, meats, and chocolates with our wine.
I appreciated the aged white cheddar with the dry Rosato red wine. Other favorites included crisp and refreshing Vignoles, semi-dry white Hunter’s Moon, and Red Cabernet.
What started as a jewelry business evolved into a specialty store selling dishes, apparel, gourmet foods, fresh floral arrangements, and more.
Wayward Saints Farm LLC produces goat milk products such as soaps, lotions, and hand-poured soy candles. You may find them at an area farmers market when they are not running the shop.
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.
PRO TIP: The museum installs new 
PRO TIP: If you visit Friday-Sunday, stop next door at the 
Upon our arrival, we followed the path to the kitchen to order our brick oven pizzas and house-made cucumber salad. We walked with craft beers in hand to a table of friendly locals who welcomed us to sit with them.
Live folk music played as we dined on two styles of pizzas and engaged in conversation with our new friends. Inspired by the sunset, we left the table to walk a manicured path through the prairie amongst towering sunflowers and a temporary Prairie Art Exhibit.
The unique experience left an impression on us. After driving back from the event, we vowed to do two things: 1.) Learn how to make fresh tomato compote (delicious on the pizza) and 2.) Take our new friend’s advice for aging well, “Stay active and be social.”
PRO TIP: Bring lawn chairs or a picnic blanket to the event.
The popular cafe serves gorgeous, scratch-made pastries with top-quality coffee. The grab-and-go options like salads, wraps, and bakery items made with locally sourced ingredients.
Craving an old-fashioned cherry Pepsi®, I entered the store and headed to the back, where I discovered a nostalgic scene. Residents sat on bar stools and in booths, enjoying a hot breakfast and discussing the day’s events.
Only a 12-minute drive southwest of Winterset, the park is well-revered by locals for its five miles of trails, picnic areas, and historic 1858 Harmon Tunnel – the only highway tunnel in the state.
The town celebrates the park’s 100th anniversary this year.
FESTIVALS AND FAIRS
It’s time you plan a vacation to Madison County, Iowa.
Disc golf is a popular sport for outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas, and 
Have you heard of geocaching? A treasure hunt using an app to locate a hidden container lets participants enjoy a free outdoor activity at various locations in Lindsborg. To start, visit 
The mural pictured below, “Rural Free Delivery,” was painted by Kenneth Adams and installed in the Goodland, Kansas, post office in 1937. The painting and others commissioned by The Section for Fine Arts were created to lift the spirits of people who suffered during the Great Depression. It was one of almost 30 murals commissioned in Kansas.
Another downtown structure that deserves your attention is Elliot’s Inc. (1019 Main St.), a building filled with home furnishings. The original color combination and Mid-Century modern styling stopped me in my tracks as I walked along the sidewalk across the street to view its architecture. What do you think of it?
Without a doubt, Goodland has one of the most good-looking courthouses in the state. The same Art Deco design seen on the United Telephone Building is evident in the Sherman County Courthouse. I love the arched windows over the entry doors and the grille pattern on the windows.
Located nearby the courthouse, “They Came to Stay” deserves a visit. The sculpture by Goodland native, Greg Todd, tells the story of homesteaders on the prairie and their determination to settle on the Kansas plains. Remember, settlers to the area didn’t find trees (no timber for building homes), so they were forced to build their homes using sod bricks formed by hand. It was hard work that required true grit.
The two-room shop is stocked with on-trend home decor and gift items. During my visit, a local woman came in to chat and shop for a gift for someone. It’s the kind of place where you’re bound to leave with a full shopping bag. The owner is a sweetheart willing to help you find something perfect for yourself or someone special.
Just beyond the WWII exhibit, I discovered a museum filled with treasures. The largest was a full-size, automated replica of the first patented helicopter in America. Push the button and watch the blades go! Inspired by the Wright brothers, William Purvis and Charles Wilson built the two-story helicopter in Goodland. The 1910 design was an ambitious one.
A 1902 Holsman rope-driven car is the second-largest exhibit in the museum. It was the first automobile driven in Sherman County and was owned by Dr. A.C. Gulick. The car was meticulously restored. A prominent figure in the community at the time, you will still see the name displayed in town, including a city park named after him.
Of the 8,000 objects on display, a few left me thinking about the early days of Goodland. It was the story of two train robbers.
The house dates back to 1907. Widowed and with daughters, Mary Ennis pushed forward with plans to build the home after her husband’s death. They resided there until 1917. Later, the home became a boarding house and then a funeral home. Eventually, Calvin Handy bought the home in 1956 and stayed in the family until Edythe Handy died in 2000. (Fact: Edythe died in the home’s dining room. Ask more about that during your tour.)
The owner, who also doubles as the cook, has filled the restaurant with antiques from floor to ceiling. Nothing is off-limits at the bar and grill. Bicycles dangle above your head. Road signs cover the walls. The bar is an antique salvaged and transported from San Francisco.
