Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Fort Dodge. All opinions and photos are mine.
Fort Dodge, Iowa, is different from your typical Midwest town. It offers plenty of things to do that are out of the ordinary, making for a memorable and fun weekend stay. From a winery and breweries to artwork by world-renowned artists and outdoor recreation, it is worth adding to your travel bucket list.
It was named one of the top 15 America’s Best Communities and earned the designation of an “Iowa Great Place.”
We arrived in anticipation of a weekend itinerary full of one-of-a-kind places to discover and were not disappointed.
WHERE TO STAY
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
Comfort meets convenience at Holiday Inn Express (300 S. 31st St.). We thought it was an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring Fort Dodge or in between adventures.
The four-story hotel has a host of amenities guaranteed to stay every kind of traveler, including families with kids searching for a hotel with a pool and sauna. The King Bed Guest Room was quiet, and the black-out shades, self-controlled air unit, and comfortable bedding kept the room oh so comfortable.
PRO TIP: If traveling with a pet, ask the hotel staff to direct you to the pet walking area. Prepare to pay a pet deposit.
DAY 1
COMMUNITY ORCHARD
The best place to start your first day in Fort Dodge is at The Community Orchard (2237 160th St.). Open August 1-December 23, the orchard grows 5,000 trees and includes 15 varieties of apples. The farm is open for tours and hosts well-attended events like the Sunflower Festival, Apple Fest, and Corn Maze.
Apples are the shining stars of the Community Orchard Cafe’s menu. I had to order their signature Scarecrow Soup with my Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich, an exceptionally delicious meal. Iowans love their Flat Apple Pie, so I enjoyed it for dessert – crave-worthy!
The maple dip served on harvested apple slices was so good I couldn’t stop talking about it.
I highly recommend giving into your sweet tooth and enjoying a freshly baked apple pastry. The café’s homemade fudge, available in multiple flavors, is worth sampling (ask for Salted Caramel, my favorite).
After lunch, we shopped the retail store downstairs, loading up on Sweet Corn Salsa and Maple Dip jars as well as a six-pack of Doc Otto’s Hard Cider. Customers will find it hard to resist sweet and salty bagged snacks, and the frozen pie case is irresistible. (The orchard dates back to the 1940s!)
Outdoors, the Back 40 Playground is entertaining for kids of all ages. We interacted with friendly goats and snapped photos in the sunflower field and orchard like gleeful children.
They recently added a two-story slide – a sight to see- included with the Back 40 Playground admission.
I appreciate the hard work and dedication that new owners Denny and Emily Stucky and their employees have put into maintaining and improving The Community Orchard, a favorite destination for locals and visitors searching for an immersive farm experience.
PRO TIP: Check for upcoming seasonal events you don’t want to miss, including Donuts with Santa in December. Interested in shopping from the retail store from home? View the website to fill your cart.
SOLDIER CREEK WINERY
The five-minute drive to Soldier Creek Winery (1584 Paragon Ave.) is a must-have experience while in the area. The back story of the winery is incredible.
After a barn fire in 2008, the site became a 10-acre vineyard producing nine cold-hardy grapes. A family-owned and operated winery, it’s all hands on deck to turn out award-winning wine year after year.
Anne, the winemaker, introduced us to wines we never knew we liked but most certainly loved at the Tasting Bar. Our tasting experience included a short list of dry wines, starting with Ghost Pig (Apple Cider and Rosé Wine) and ending with Marquette 2021 Limited Release (Red). She explained how she uses only Iowa grapes to produce each handcrafted wine.
After tasting six different wines, we enthusiastically raved about dry white Petite Amie 2022 (Best of Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair) and Marquette 2021 (Fruit-forward dry red). We were gleeful when she offered us a bottle of Marquette 2022 to bring back to Kansas.
After the tasting session, Anne gave us a tour of the winery’s newly expanded production facility and further explained the process of making wine from concept to harvest.
Whether you stop by for a formal tasting experience or only want to purchase a glass of wine ($6), you’ll walk away wishing you had signed up for the Paragon Wine Club.
The wine is that good.
Are you interested in a tasting experience? You can walk in during tasting room hours or make an appointment. I recommend reserving a tasting if traveling with a small group. Light snacks and non-boozy drinks are available to purchase, and they welcome DoorDash food deliveries.
PRO TIP: Visit the winery on Fridays from 6 pm -8 pm to enjoy live music year-round, a real draw for locals who are encouraged to bring their chairs and food to enjoy picnic-style. Check out their upcoming events, like Bingo at the Winery here.
SUNKISSED MEADOWS DISC GOLF COURSE
When it’s a beautiful day in Fort Dodge, you must spend time outdoors playing disc golf at Sunkissed Meadows (326 11th Ave.). The expansive 18-hold course is ideal for beginning or intermediate players who appreciate wide fairways with clear views of most baskets.
Created in 2015, concrete tee pads and easily recognizable holes make the course simple to navigate without using the UDisc app. If you want to play the entire course, plan for 1.5-2 hours and be prepared to walk a course mostly without shade.
PRO TIP: Sunkissed Meadows is one of two disc courses in town. Check out Snell-Crawford Park (Williams Drive & 12 Ave. N.), built in 1976 and one of the country’s first 25 disc golf courses.
FORT DODGE COUNTRY CLUB/LAKESIDE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE
Do you prefer ball golf over disc golf? Fort Dodge Country Club (370 Country Club Dr.) and Lakeside Municipal Golf Course (1417 Nelson Ave) are open to the public and require a pre-booked tee time.
Each 18-hole course provides manicured course play using rentable golf carts for golfers of all skill levels. While we didn’t have time to play a round of golf, I could easily see myself returning to Fort Dodge and carving out time to do so. Having played high school golf, the courses looked well-maintained and worth playing.
RIVER HOPS BREWING
River Hops Brewing (1014 Central Ave.) is the perfect place to cool off after time spent outdoors. Opened in 2018 inside a renovated 1951 department store turned office building, the owners put a lot of work into the space, which produces quality craft beer for eager fans.
We sipped on a flight of four beers ranging from a crisp lager to a red ale as the owner, Ron, told us the brewery can produce 15 beers using 5 fermenters. They are the only brewing in town that serves beer on nitrogen.
The size of the brewery is intentionally smaller than most, creating a setting where the community can sit down over a beer and get to know one another. The back patio features a meat smoker and grill available to patrons who want to cook dinner for themselves or friends while they sip on sids.
Check out the brewery’s menu to preview the beers on tap. The taproom is open Wednesday-Friday at 4:30 pm and Saturday at 1:00 pm. Expect live music on the patio often.
PRO TIP: We thoroughly enjoyed sitting in the taproom and asking Ron about various items of curiosity used to decorate the interior. Ask about the model plane hanging from the ceiling near a wooden canoe or the wood beams and windows – each curated item has a story.
GAGA & HOO KOREAN RESTAURANT
Gaga & Hoo (368 Country Club Dr.) is the only Korean restaurant in Iowa, and it’s the only one they need because the food is authentic and delicious. The restaurant’s owner was recruited to open a restaurant in the area when South Korean company CJ Cheiljedang brought nearly 200 jobs to Fort Dodge.
The restaurant’s setting is unique, located inside the Fort Dodge Country Club. Open to the public, its interior displays Korean decor while traditional music plays.
We enjoyed savory Dak-gang-jeong (fried chicken) and Mandu (dumplings) as appetizers.
We were pleasantly surprised a robot server delivered our dinner entrees– an unforgettable, out-of-the-ordinary experience. The steaming hot Bimbimbap and Spicy Stir-Fried Noodles were some of the best we’ve enjoyed, and our server was welcoming and knowledgeable.
PRO TIP: Expect more surprises if you’re one of the last diners of the evening. The chef/owner is known to sit near a musical instrument station where he serenades diners.
THE DARIETTE
If you’re craving dessert after dinner, I recommend driving to The Dariette (17 S. 12st St.) to order a soft-serve treat or ice cream bar via the pick-up window or the drive-thru.
A delightful evening in Fort Dodge isn’t complete without visiting The Dariette for a sweet treat. I opted for a small bowl of nostalgic root beer-flavored soft-serve. Nearby families sat on cozy outdoor furniture, enjoying their dessert while I waited a short time for mine.
DAY 2
BLOOMERS ON CENTRAL COFFEE SHOPPE
Unlike a typical coffee shop, Bloomers on Central (900 Central Ave.) is a one-of-a-kind cafe.
We waited patiently in line with locals to order breakfast sandwiches prepared to order and a cold latté. While looking for two open seats, and spotted the casual spot near a refurbished TV made into an aquarium.
Just like everything else in Fort Dodge, this TV-turned-fishbowl was yet another unique surprise to what could have been a typical stop for coffee experience.
We were pleased with the friendly customer service (the owner does it all!) and impressed by the breakfast menu featuring Eggels (bagel sandwiches) and an Acai Energy Bowl for health-conscious eaters.
PRO TIP: Buy a to-go lunch sandwich or salad for the road. Each one is served with sliced apples and caramel, with the option to add chips or seasonal soup.
PUBLIC ART TOUR
FREEDOM ROCK
The Freedom Rock® Tour is available to view across Iowa. Started in 1999, each artist-painted 60-pound boulder is meant to honor veterans for their service to the county.
The Webster County Freedom Rock in Fort Dodge (Southwest Corner of A Street and the Karl King Bridge at 2nd Avenue S.). As the story goes, Iowa native Ray Michael Sorenson, now a state representative, began drawing as a kid and painted the first large rock because he was inspired by the movie “Saving Private Ryan.”
The Freedom Rock pictured above is dedicated to veterans suffering from the after-effects of service, like PTSD and mental illness. The front side of the mural rock honors two local aviators and medal recipients who both graduated from Fort Dodge High School
MURAL TOUR
A public art tour of Fort Dodge wouldn’t be complete without getting out of the car to see the 110-foot Grain Silo Mural (727 Hawkeye Avenue) painted by Australian artist Guido van Helten.
The state’s largest mural, it depicts Fort Dodge residents who contributed to the community. Do you see the man holding the ornate bowl? The town’s pottery industry is represented by this scene.
Like me, take time to walk the entire circumference of the silo, pausing to admire the artist’s handiwork completed during the winter years ago.
While admiring another downtown mural, I accidentally discovered The Starry Night (Central Ave. and South 9th St.) painted by Iowa Central Community College students.
The bus stop mural is made to look like the famous Vincent Van Gogh painting but also includes symbols of Fort Dodge’s skyline. The 2015 creation is a must-see.
No matter where you are in town, you’re bound to see a mural in the distance, whether it’s under a bridge like the one pictured below or in town visible to passersby.
STATUES & SCULPTURES
You’ll see many statues and sculptures on display for your viewing enjoyment. A full-scale statue of Iowa Senator John F. Duncombe by artist Leonard Crunelle stands at Karl King Park (424 Central Ave.). He holds law books to represent his time in Fort Dodge as an attorney from 1855-1902.
Chronicle (9th St. and 1st Avenue S.) is a 15-foot sculpture by artist Dan Perry to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Fort Dodge. Not to be missed, the eye-catching art is approachable on foot if you use free on-street parking.
Click this link to view all of the public art pieces on display in Fort Dodge in one place.
SHINYTOP BREWING
Lunch at ShinyTop Brewing (520 Central Ave.) is a solid choice. They specialize in craft beer and delicious homemade pizza, but they also have a surprise menu item you only sometimes see at a brewery: mojitos.
We chose to drink No Stopping’ the Hoppin’ IPA and Hop Peach of Ash IPA with the Italian Stallion specialty pizza. Not all breweries that serve food do both well, but ShinyTop hits the mark.
The pizza was the perfect ratio of crust, sauce, and fresh ingredients, so it’s listed on the menu as “a crowd favorite.”
If pizza isn’t your go-to at lunchtime, the brewery also serves specialty and build-you-own sandwiches with chips. Seven macaroni and cheese bowls appear on the menu.
Expect a relaxed lunchtime setting to enjoy a meal from a comfy booth beneath a wall covered in paintings by local artists.
If you go, flights of four 5-ounce beer samples are $12. Not a beer drinker? Opt to view the cocktails, wine, and Moscow mules menu instead.
PRO TIP: Dining with four people? Ask about the Big A$$ Mule, a 192-ounce Moscow Mule served in a monstrous mug.
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
STUDIO FUSION
Studio Fusion (21 S. 12th St.) is the place for the creative at heart to hone their glassmaking skills or learn a new craft. The DIY art studio specializes in fused glass, paint-your-own pottery, and canvas painting. The retail area showcases items for sale designed by local residents.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time in our itinerary to sit down and create a piece, but I did chat with the owner and several women who were busy creating new glass projects.
They told me how they meet there once a week to chat about their lives and bond while creating art. Soon, they grabbed their phones to show me photos of past projects completed for friends and family. What started as something fun to do became a love affair producing fused glass.
You don’t need an appointment to work at the studio, but if you’re traveling with several people, you should call to reserve seating.
Studio Fusion does not charge studio or glazing fees. Decide what glass design or pottery piece you’d like to work with and get started with guidance from the owner.
Your finished pottery piece or fused glass can be shipped to you once fired in the kiln.
PRO TIP: If you want to take a structured class to create a holiday project. check the Facebook events page for upcoming sessions.
THE APPLE ATTIC SHOP AT THE ORCHARD
If you visit The Community Orchard, you must walk upstairs to shop at The Apple Attic (2237 160th St.). I was told I would love what I saw, and boy, was my host right.
The shoppable home decor section features rustic-chic items, the kind you might see in a farmhouse design magazine.
Beyond the home showroom, women’s apparel racks displayed the latest fashions in the season’s popular colors. Tunics, pants, shorts, and accessories make shopping at The Apple Attic worthwhile.
PRO TIP: You can also shop The Apple Attic online, and they will ship to your home.
THE GREEN DRAGON BOOKSHOP
Fort Dodge residents are lucky to have The Green Dragon Bookshop (9 N. 11 St.), and visitors are guaranteed to love it. I always appreciate an independent bookstore. This one, despite its quaint size, supplies hundreds of new and old titles with a large selection of sci-fi genre books.
The owner creatively used the towering space to incorporate tall bookcases decorated with sun-seeking plants.
Located on the 2023 Midwest Indie Bookstore Roadmap (my favorite resource to support local businesses), The Green Dragon Bookshop also carries whimsical gifts, stickers, and bookmarks.
PRO TIP: If you have a child or young adult reader in your household, they will appreciate The Green Dragon Bookshops’ up-to-date inventory.
DOWNTOWN HISTORIC DISTRICT WALKING TOUR
The entire downtown district of Fort Dodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its establishment in 1854.
Download a brochure before starting your trek to take a self-guided historic walking tour. I was enamored by the architecture along Central Avenue, starting at the City Square, where farmers once sold grain and hay at the market in 1880.
HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS
One of the best ways to get to know a place is to see it via the trail system. Fort Dodge and greater Webster County have paved, unpaved, and soft trails for adventurers, with 16 trails in town.
Download a map to select a nearby trail that meets your needs. Kiosk panels at trailheads near parking lots remind hikers and bikers of best practices.
BLANDEN MEMORIAL ART MUSEUM
A tour of Blanden Memorial Art Museum (920 3rd Avenue South) may leave you speechless. Three galleries house an impressive collection of American and European paintings, photography, Japanese prints, and African sculptures.
Like most unique discoveries in Fort Dodge, its phenomenal collection of artists’ works left me speechless. I was amazed to view works by Chagall, Warhol, Miro, Chihuly, and Stieglitz on display inside one of the oldest art museums in Iowa.
Outdoors, the lawn was adorned with sizable sculptures by artists who pushed the bounds of creativity.
With an ever-changing display of works from their 1,200 permanent collection, you will see something new each time you visit. The museum hosts a visiting artist every three months.
End your self-guided tour of Blanden Art Museum by signing the guest book and shopping the main floor gift store. A percentage of each sale funds programming and supports local artists.
PRO TIP: Carve out at least an hour of your day if you’re the type of museum-goer who likes to read each work’s details or ask questions of the staff. Inquire about the museum’s newly announced education center they plan to build soon.
OLDE BOSTON’S RESTAURANT & PUB
Dinner at Olde Boston’s Restaurant & Pub (809 Central Ave.) is an ideal way to wind down a day while enjoying a stacked made-to-order burger or sandwich.
Our Triple B and Bacon Cheeseburger meals were an incredible value the day of your visit at $8 with a side. To my delight, I opted for a side garden salad instead of fries, which arrived the size of a dinner salad. Des Moines Brewing Confluence IPA paired perfectly with it.
PRO TIP: Admire the black and white photography on the walls highlighting the day Senator John F. Kennedy visited Fort Dodge before speaking at an airport rally in 1960. You’ll appreciate learning the story Olde Dog and a Massachusetts town that inspired the restaurant’s name here.
SNACK SHACK
A summer day in Iowa is only complete with an ice cream stand visit. At Snack Shack (11 S. 16th St.), you can select from soft-serve in a cup or cone, malts and shakes, or sundaes and slashes.
Decidedly stuffed from my dinner meal, I choose a small dish of classic vanilla soft serve with rainbow sprinkles. Couples approached the walk-up window, ready to order, as I watched car after car enter the drive-thru.
A popular stop for locals near downtown, Snack Shack reminds me of a hangout you’d see in a 1950s movie. The community loves to gather at the colorful tables outside to gab about local happenings between bites of ice cream.
DAY 3
ARDYS MAE COFFEE AND DESSERT
The first thing to do after checking out of your hotel for the weekend is to stop at Ardys Mae Coffee and Dessert (14 S. 14th St.) for an in-house roasted cup of coffee, fruit smoothie, and light breakfast.
We reminisced about our favorite moments in Fort Dodge while enjoying a breakfast panini sandwich made with smoked pork loin, egg, and cheese. The fruit smoothie was one of the best I’ve tasted because it was made with fresh strawberries, not syrupy flavoring.
Known for their scratch-made scones, Andy Mae Coffee and Desserts has a loyal following that often tracks down their food truck when it shows up at community events.
PRO TIP: The café also serves lunch sandwiches with a cup or soup or stand. Ask about charcuterie boards. Preview the menu.
THE FORT MUSEUM AND FRONTIER VILLAGE
A trip to Fort Dodge is complete with a visit to its most famous museum. Founded in 1854, Fort Dodge has a historical military past. The Fort Museum and Frontier Village (1 Museum Rd.) make history come alive, showcasing artifacts, military memorabilia, and Native American art and tools.
You should start at the Trading Post Gift Shop to pay admission before starting your self-guided tour of the grounds.
The Fort Dodge Dragoons, the 1st U.S. Dragoons, marched to scout Iowa in 1835 after the Black Hawk Purchases of 1832 put the area under U.S. control. The march established outposts from present-day Fort Dodge. The Dragoon Trail is about 200 miles long, originating near the museum.
Fort Museum & Frontier Village welcomes visitors to tour original and replica mid-1800s to mid-1900s buildings and houses. As we walked in and out of the buildings, I was awe-struck by the robust collection of authentic artifacts inside each one.
I encourage you to walk inside the original Harcourt City Jail, where town drunks, thieves, and outlaws were once taken. Tour the Border Plains School, one of the oldest school buildings in Webster County, to imagine life as a student from 1857-1959.
Tour the inside of the Carlson-Richey Log Home from 1855 to smell the musty wood planks and admire the handiwork of the log home’s builder.
We appreciated the historic details inside a blacksmith shop, drugstore, carriage repair shop, and wood shop. I recommend spending about an hour exploring all the buildings on a cool weather day.
But what awaits inside one particular building beyond the military post entrance keeps visitors talking.
The Cardiff Giant is a replica 12-foot-long stone figure resting inside a small building. It was allegedly created when a New Yorker, George Hull, wanted to prove to a preacher that giants once walked the earth. He had the giant’s stone quarried at the Cardiff mine near Fort Dodge.
The naked giant rests with a precisely placed fig leaf in a building and continues to draw onlookers as Hull would have wanted.
Other nearby buildings house actual artifacts curated from the area that documents one of Iowa’s most valuable resources, gypsum. Early settlers mined the mineral in and around Fort Dodge. Now, the chalky material is used to make wallboard, and Fort Dodge contributes nearly 75% of the state’s gypsum production.
Other displays house Native American arrowheads, beadwork, and clothing. Nearby, military uniforms and weaponry tell the story of those who fortified Fort Dodge.
A self-guided tour of Fort Museum and Frontier Village helps you better understand who made the town what it is today.
BONUS THINGS TO DO
If you’re visiting during the summer like we did, shop at the Fort Dodge Farmer’s Market (11 N. 25th At.), open on Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. -6:30 p.m. Hanging out downtown? Mosey over to the Fort Dodge Public Library (424 Central Ave.), where a row of rentable scooters wait to be used to tour the town’s downtown corridor.
Prefer to spend time exploring the outdoors rather than in town? Drive to Kennedy Park and Badger Lake (1415 Nelson Ave.) to walk trails or fish. A paved path leads to Terry Moehnke Veterans Memorial Park. Dolliver Memorial State Park (2757 Dolliver Park Ave.), a 30-minute drive south of town, is known for its breathtaking natural bluffs and view overlooking the Des Moines River Valley.
When visiting Blanden Art Museum, you will be in the Oak Hill Historic District, a four-block neighborhood of post-Civil War period homes. Although most are private residences, tour the area to see Vincent House, built in 1872 by James and Adeline Swain, a women’s rights advocate. The house is rentable for gatherings.
My sense of wanderlust is strong, and I typically have a fun travel experience wherever I travel. Yet something about Fort Dodge, my first Iowa travel experience, stays with me. It’s a feeling of contentment and longing to return.
You’ll feel the same after visiting Fort Dodge, which offers incredible things to do and see around every corner. It truly is a place to #DodgeTheOrdinary.
The north-central community of over 45,000 people has much to be proud of. Daytrippers will be impressed by the downtown area’s thoughtful design and unique businesses with something for every kind of traveler.
THE BATH PUB
The staff can also help you recreate a scent from an item you bring into the store, like an old perfume bottle or candle.
The fun continues throughout the store. Visitors are encouraged to take a photo in the store window’s bathtub. Children accompanying parents will enjoy the kids-only area that encourages artful play.
The smell of new books welcomes you as you walk through oversized wood doors into the store. The store’s shelves are organized by category while stacks of the latest titles are arranged upon dark wood tables.
But you’ll find more than books at Red Fern Booksellers. I was impressed to discover hand-made gift wrap, stationary for sale, puzzles, stickers, and handcrafted greeting cards. My visit ended perfectly when a butterfly greeted me as I exited the store, a delightful experience.
Whether you’re in the mood to create a seasonal gift for your home or a complete dishware set, On The Pot provides all the supplies you need to finish the project.
Be sure to check out their inventory of Julie’s Stickers, a collection of whimsical drawings and sayings, to add to your purchase. The owners are in the process of creating five downtown Salina stickers to sell as well.
PRO TIP: Traveling with family? Groups of 10 or more can book the studio for a reduced rate on studio fees with a 
From outfits with vibrant colors to unique Cansuelas handbags, the store lives up to its motto, “Be a Little Eccentric.” Shoppers searching for day-to-day closet staples will also find what they’re looking for.
The clothing and shoes inventory is constantly rotating for the seasons, and shoppers are guaranteed to find sizes available from XS to XL.
Beautifully upholstered chairs sit adjacent to elegant lamps and candleholders. Ornate plates adorn tabletops. Framed artwork, figurines, blankets, and garden urns reveal the shop’s distinctly different inventory. Body products and greeting cards near the register make a fabulous gift for a friend.
PRO TIP: Browse Baron Mushmouse’s clothing racks for Bohemian-style blouses, dresses, and dark denim jeans.
Every well-equipped kitchen needs decorative towels and cookbooks with a pantry stocked with dip mixes and jarred condiments. You’ll find it all and more at The Market Shop.
PRO TIP: Wind your way through the store’s thematic displays for scented candles and home decor. The rear of the store is a clothing paradise for fashion-forward women.
A new outfit isn’t complete without matching accessories. Blushe Boutique’s selection of hats, jewelry, and shoes makes shopping for a last-minute dinner date a breeze.
PRO TIP: Because the store stocks seasonal clothing, check the clearance racks in the rear of the store for mega deals.
Locally-made furniture, art, and pottery are the focus of the shop’s inventory, and Flipping Fabulous carries most of the supplies one needs for at-home projects. You’ll discover the most extensive stock of Redesign with Prima in the world and Melange One Paints.
PRO TIP: Walk upstairs to admire custom-made gifts and home decor created by local and regional artists.
Thanks to ever-changing displays, you’re guaranteed to see something you want to purchase each time you visit.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend about half an hour inspecting the store to see everything it offers. If you bring a gal pal to shop, prepare to spend more time because so many of the finds are conversation-inducing.
The café offers patrons a place to sit back and relax with a book or meet as a small group.
PRO TIP: Check the 
The menu consists of “world regional” fare, which to my surprise, includes 15 types of sushi rolls as well as nigiri and sashimi platters.
The linen tablecloths, orchestral music playing in the background, and robust menu options deliver an unforgettable meal experience at Barolo Grille.
I stopped for a refreshing margarita only to discover it was already Happy Hour at 2:30 pm. The setting was relaxed, and I made conversation with the bartender between sips while sports played on the TVs. I look forward to returning for lunch and Horchata Bread Pudding.
I felt like a kid again, savoring every bite of Lemon Custard ice cream as a Dagney’s employee shaped homemade waffle cones behind the counter. The color-changing plastic spoon made the whole experience nostalgic.
Choosing my entree, Penne Carbonara with Chicken, wasn’t easy because the menu ranged from seafood dishes and steaks to wood-fired pizzas. I appreciated the pasta dish, topped with a raw egg yolk that I was encouraged to stir into the black pepper cream sauce before enjoying it.
While all the street art designs are worth discussing, the enormity of the Mural at the Mill (343 N. Santa Fe Ave.) by Guido van Helten begs visitors for a closer look. The Australian muralist’s work wraps around all sides.
There is a buzz of creative momentum in Salina’s downtown. You can feel it as you shop, eat, and admire the area’s art scene. I recommend spending the day exploring it like a local.
Trendy go-to places such as 
Take a self-guided tour inside its galleries to admire throughout-provoking pieces by artists ranging from Georgia O’Keefe and Andy Warhol. Outdoors, paved trails wind through 120 acres of Ozark forest with permanent pubic artwork tucked amongst the trees. Keep a keen eye out for architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright and Safdie; their buildings seamlessly blend into the setting.
After your tour, savor a glass of wine or plate of delectable eats with a view at 
Lounging with friends at
Remember that The Momentary is within walking distance of 
Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the glass-covered displays housing original products, and kids can submit a completed scavenger hunt for prizes. I recommend spending 15 minutes viewing an AI-powered life-sized hologram of founder Sam Walton who recounts his childhood and philosophy on business.
Located at the Bentonville Municipal Airport, Thaden Field honors the contribution of female aviator Louise Thaden, the first woman to win a National Air Race. Thaden was born in Bentonville and broke barriers for women in the industry, holding records for altitude, solo endurance, and speed.
The modern design includes outdoor play areas for kids and a retail area stocked with aviation-themed gifts. Photo-worthy backdrops on each level invite visitors to snap selfies.
Born in Arkansas in 1932, Johnny Cash is one of several legendary Arkansas musicians depicted in downtown Bentonville’s alley artwork. If traveling with kids, take them to 
Seat yourself at the bar for Happy Hour on Monday-Wednesday from 3 pm-6 pm when you see $2 on wine and draft beer. Choose from a short list of margaritas, which are only $5.
Are you visiting with a small group? Reserve the swanky, pink-covered bank vault for an unforgettable experience with reserved seating.
I enjoyed Space Goose Hazy IPA enough to purchase a six-pack of to-go cans. I regret that we had already eaten lunch; otherwise, 
I hope this list of fun things to do in Bentonville inspires a road trip. If you travel from Kansas to Northwest Arkansas along Hwy 400, I’ve also written about 
In 2015, Gress said, “If people at least understand what’s going on out there and how important it is, maybe they’ll come to appreciate it and want to protect it and maybe change their own behavior to improve the situation.” (Source: The Wichita Eagle)
In 1958, the budding entrepreneurs grew the company from a humble start-up business to one of the world’s biggest, most well-known restaurant companies. Today, the company’s net worth is worth over $810 billion.
Today, Chance Rides is the only one of the three businesses still in operation, producing roller coasters, rides, and park trains.
He laid out the trail between his trading post at the mouth of the Little Arkansas River to the Indian territory that extended northward to Abilene, Kansas. Cowboys pushed cattle herds through town and across the river near the Douglas Street Bridge.
Nicknamed “The Rave,” the 6-7 forward averaged 24.3 points in four seasons at WSU and helped lead the team to their first NCAA appearance in 1964.
The highly decorated leader earned the National Security Medal, the President’s Citizens Medal, National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal (twice), and the Distinguished Intelligence Medal (three times).
Her tirades continued for years. Eventually, she was jailed many times before dying in Leavenworth, Kansas, on June 9, 1911.
I appreciate that Wichita Park and Recreation, in partnership with Byers, decided to beautify the city’s parks with artistic benches that beautify the surroundings and showcase Wichita’s history makers. Byer’s use of vibrant colors, the Wichita flag, and the city’s abbreviated name, ICT, make them symbolic.
Historically known as the birthplace of female aviator Amelia Earhart, Atchison is a thriving town once home to Kanza Indians. Lewis & Clark explored the area in 1804. Later, it became a hub for steamboats, railroads, and manufacturing.
In 1870, the Atchison railroad served as a learning rail town in the state, but times changed. The last Santa Fe train left town in the early 1990s, but the museum’s inventory of authentic artifacts keeps history alive.
I started the self-guided tour by watching a computer-generated video of Amelia Earhart welcoming guests. The life-like pilot spoke in quotable phrases inspiring museum-goers to go after their dreams.
The Virtual Reality Flight experience was worth the added time and ticketed cost. Donning a headset and using an airplane’s yoke, I attempted Amelia’s historic 1932 flight across the Atlantic Ocean. I didn’t make it to Paris, but I did land the plane safely in a farmer’s field.
A gift to his wife, Evah, the mansion features 25 rooms filled with period antiques, including an 1893 World’s Fair bedroom set, elaborate stained glass windows, and high-quality furnishings.
Walking the rest of the home’s interior, you’ll discover a 200-year-old walking wheel winder used to spin yarn wool. The parlor’s upholstered, open-arm couches with dark wood and framed artwork showcase the luxury the Hetherington family enjoyed.
Outdoors, an elaborate driveway leads to a restored carriage house that begs to be photographed.
The Evah Cray Museum is more than another stunning home in Kansas. It’s a time capsule from the past when a family decided to settle in Atchison and live in the home for 80 years. Given their wealth, they could have chosen to reside anywhere. They chose Atchison.
My tour, led by the museum’s docent, was exceptional. Expect to pay a moderate admission if you go, and you’ll want to plan to spend at least an hour touring the home.
PRO TIP: Ask about the home’s small theater, where you can watch a film about Atchison architecture. Visit the gift shop in the carriage house.
The 14-room home served as a showroom to display the types of wood his business provided and the intricate ways it could be used. You’ll notice he combined oak, walnut, and mahogany into its design from floor to ceiling. He incorporated non-traditional wall materials like leather into the wallboard design.
The cafe is where locals meet to catch up about the latest happenings in town. Where travelers like me enjoy quiet time and peruse the internet using free Wi-FI. And where you can shop for gift items from kitchen towels to home decor.
You’ll find the comfortable cafe is just what you need to set the tone for the day. The menu features freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee drinks. Return mid-day for a Signature Cocktail like The Atchison Mule of Amelia’s Final Flight.
Between bites, I enjoyed learning about Ann’s heritage, which included the Lopez & Vallejo families’ tradition of serving the community delicious food and treating customers “like a part of the family.”
I took my friend’s advice and chose the carbonara prepared with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce over spaghetti. You can expect Italian pasta dishes, shareable plates (crab cakes, anyone?), and chef-inspired main dishes ranging from Steak Diane to Chicken Madeira on the menu.
PRO TIP: The restaurant does accept walk-in diners, but the restaurant is a popular place, so consider making a reservation.
You can count on our favorite bar and grill menu items. The list includes burgers and sandwiches to chicken wings and sirloin steaks.
I chatted with the manager, Steve, while enjoying a Chicken Club Salad. This restaurant location is one of two Willie’s Sports Pub restaurants in Kansas; the second is located in El Dorado.
Launched in 2022, the store sells apothecaries, barware, gifts, kitchenware, and stationery. Leather earrings side alongside handcrafted soap while botanical prints are on top shelving stacked with enamelware.
PRO TIP: Self-described foodies, the owners do a fantastic job of stocking a reach-in cooler with specialty grocery items. Ask about cheese sampler boards available for purchase.
Whether you are shopping for blue and white ginger jars, holiday decorations, or faux botanicals, you’ll find them at Presley Pierce Interiors. Every corner of the shop draws the eye, and the window displays inspire one’s creativity.
Shoppers so appreciate the store’s merchandise that the owner often hosts pop-up events off-site in people’s homes. To track new inventory arrivals and learn about upcoming events, follow the store’s 
Walking through the store conjures up childhood memories. In search of boxed vintage toys? Autographed sports memorabilia? This is the place to shop. If you’re interested in trading cards of all kinds, pull up and chair and thumb throw the boxes.
PRO TIP: Collectors will appreciate Thorne’s House Hot Packs containing budget-friendly starter packs. View the store’s 
I was pleasantly surprised the store’s jewelry collection was reasonably priced for its quality. A decent inventory of hats, handbags, and shoes rounded out the accessory options.
PRO TIP: Their 
To call the Backroad Atlas a store would be to underrepresent its size. It feels more like an antique mall. Staff members are eager to assist you if you’re hunting for a particular item.
Shopping for a unique item is all the more charming thanks to the store’s cat, who occasionally visits customers to say hello.
A physician and the front rooms once owned the house were his examination rooms. As the story goes, the doctor operated on a 6-year-old child, Sallie, before the anesthesia took effect, and she died in the house. Years later, renters reported mysterious happenings, and the man felt as if he was scratched.
You can tour or stay overnight in the home known for its paranormal activity. Items sometimes crash to the floor. Figures are seen in the windows. Doors slam in the night.
A highlight of my visit was standing in the shade of the Moon Tree, a Sycamore grown from a seed taken to the moon on Apollo 14. Underneath, the names of 17 astronauts who gave their lives are recognized in the memorial.
Manicured gardens and tree spaces dot the landscape. Find the gazebo to enjoy a shaded space of solitude. 
PRO TIP: Take note of Memory Lane inductees’ names paying homage to aviation greats such as the Wright Brothers and Eileen Collins.
Families with young kids will appreciate the state-of-the-art playground, then walk to nearby horseshoe pits to teach them how the game is played.
PRO TIP: On-street parking is available at no cost.
My visit was peaceful as I scanned the horizon made up of trees overlooking the Missouri River running from St. Joseph, Missouri, through Atchison, and toward Leavenworth, Kansas.
The dedicated marker remembers the Atchison man who was the victim of violence after accidentally injuring a white man while hunting.
PRO TIP: Earhart created her own fashion line, often wearing clothing from it. Learn more from 
PRO TIP: Visit the 
Final Thoughts
The seaside restaurant is known for its extensive menu of rum drinks and fresh seafood, which have received rave reviews. It was incredibly windy, so we dined indoors near a window. The service was excellent. Our waitress took the time to review the menu with us and give her recommendations.
We knew we were in the right place. I ordered a cucumber mojito and a seared tuna appetizer. Tossed in peanut vinaigrette, the chilled rice noodles, veggies, and herbs paired nicely with the seared tuna. It was a large meal for one diner, yet perfect for sharing for two people. The mussels appetizer was tasty but wasn’t nearly as large a portion.
If you can, visit Doc Ford’s near St. Pete’s Pier. It’s a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. The deck seating area is a choice spot for snapping a photo with Tampa Bay in the background
We hopped on a free shuttle from the gateway to Pier Teak, a rooftop bar serving cocktails and beer. The view of the city’s skyline was in the background as sailboats and yachts sat docked near shore. We admired the city’s architecture noting a contrast between modern skyscrapers and Art Deco, brightly painted buildings.
Level 2 of the St. Pete Pier is the Driftwood Cafe. It is quaint in size and offers vast views of the bay in a cozy setting. We found ourselves inside Pier Gear & Gifts on Level 1. After purchasing new sunglasses, we headed outside to the fishing deck.
If you’re an angler, you’ll appreciate the option to catch fresh seafood and clean it on-site. Gator Jim’s Tackle sells last-minute fishing supplies if you find yourself in need.
Further down the pier’s walkway, we discovered the Family Park with a splash pad nearby. Families stood in line for ice cream at a nearby creamery. The weather might have been windy, but the sun was shining, and everyone was enjoying themselves.
Whether relaxing in an Adirondack chair in the shade under a canopy of palm trees or watching children play on the beach, you’ll find more than enough to do on a good weather day. Adults can peruse the Marketplace to shop from local vendors, while art enthusiasts can seek out 
I particularly appreciated “Morning Stars,” a mosaic mural of geometric shapes created by artist Xenobia Bailey. As I walked back and forth, it appeared as if the shapes took their own movement.
A visit to St. Pete isn’t complete without spending time at the pier. Parking at St. Pete Pier requires payment, but it’s inexpensive. Once you park, make a note of the parking space number and walk to a payment kiosk to deposit $4 for two hours. It’s a small price for access to pristine beaches and the pier’s grounds.
We stopped by 
Known for serving craft beer, mead, and cider, Green Bench’s slogan is “It’s more than beer. It’s community.” If you’re unsure what to order, they’re happy to pour you a sample or two. The menu is constantly changing. The staff goes out of their way to make patrons feel right at home.
Several group members ordered the Cuban sandwich made with roast pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, mayo, and mojo served on crusty bread. The sandwich’s flavor was no joke. I could’ve easily eaten another one. Latin pop music played over the stereo. It was a festive experience.
Pro Tip: When visiting Bodega, order at the window on the sidewalk. They will give you a number to take to the table, and servers will run your food. View the menu 
I settled for the Fish & Chips, which arrived at our table piping hot. The Garlic Steamed Middle Neck Clams didn’t last long either. Other good-looking menu items included Mahi Mahi Tacos and the Grilled Garlic Shrimp Roll.
I chose the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs served with fresh fruit and toast. Our family seemed just as happy with their menu selections ranging from chocolate chip pancakes for the kids to omelets and breakfast skillet meals. The server was a pro at managing a bustling restaurant, ringing orders, and attending to our needs. The restaurant experience was 5 stars.
Highlights of the world-class aquarium include listening to animal handlers as they feed turtles, fish, and dolphins. Also serving as an animal hospital, many exhibits showcase information on the walls about each animal in captivity and their rehabilitation story.
We took the aquarium at our own pace rather than booking an animal experience session. However, if you’d like to get an up-close look at what it is to care for dolphins or have a photo moment with one, you can book a hands-on Animal Care Experience 
Pro Tip: If you arrive in your vehicle, you can go ahead and park in the nearby parking garage. Ticketing is on the third level near the entrance. We parked in the neighborhood and walked to the aquarium’s third level to purchase admission. You can plan your visit and get directions to the aquarium 
A popular destination for anglers, you can fish from the pier if you pay for admission. It’s the spot to see dolphins, hammerhead sharks, and other fish like grouper and snapper. 
Pro Tip: Parking at Pier 60 requires depositing money at a pay station. Be prepared to deposit $4 per hour at nearby lots. A downtown-to-beach trolley runs every 30 minutes Monday-Thursday, and every 15 minutes Friday-Sunday.
Popular with tourists and locals, the restaurant is known for its fresh gulf grouper dishes, fish tacos, and Boom Boom Shrimp Bites. I opted for a House Salad with Blackened Mahi. The Stuffed Flounder and Clam Chowder were other menu items that caught my eye for a future visit.
Pro Tip: To get a sneak peek of the restaurant’s upper deck view, check out their live web cam 
