My first visit to Florida didn’t disappoint. In fact, I found the St. Petersburg and Clearwater areas to be a traveler’s delight featuring beautiful beaches, an active arts community, and fun around every corner.
We took a direct flight on Allegiant Air from Wichita to the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, which was easy to book and a low-cost fare. Fun Fact: After the Wright brothers’ pioneer flight at Kitty Hawk, the first ticket for air travel was sold by the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line to a fare-paying passenger.
ST PETES
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
We kicked off our trip in St. Petes. The first thing we did once arriving to “The Sunshine City” was jump in the rental car and head to St. Pete Pier to have lunch at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille with views of Tampa Bay.
The seaside restaurant is known for an extensive menu of rum drinks and fresh seafood, which have received rave reviews. It was an incredibly windy day, 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 the seared tuna appetizer. Tossed in peanut vinaigrette, the chilled rice noodles, veggies, and herbs paired nicely with the seared tuna. It was a meal for one dine, yet perfect for sharing for two people. The mussels appetizer was tasty but certainly wasn’t nearly as large of a portion.
If you get the chance, visit Doc Ford’s at the near the 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
View the menu prior to visiting. Pro Tip: Take a look at their up-to-date Instagram account to get inspired before ordering.
St. Pete Pier
I did my research before leaving for Florida and knew that we needed to check out St. Pete Pier overlooking Tampa Bay. The newly renovated area is breathtaking and has something for every age to enjoy.
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 were 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. Quaint in size, it 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.
Public art reigns supreme at St. Pete Pier at the 26-acre complex. “Bending Arc” by Janet Echelman sways in the breeze above onlookers’ heads. The artist used twine and knots to sculpt a massive piece that constantly changes shape. If you return to see it after the sun goes down, projected lights illuminate it with vibrant color.
Whether you’re relaxing in an Adirondack chair in the shade under a canopy of palm trees or watching children at 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 public art installations like the 10′ tall Red Pelican by artist Nathan Mabry.
Don’t miss Benoist Centennial Plaza for the World’s First Airline Monument. Located adjacent to the Albert Whitted Airport, the area is home to “First Flight” by artist Mark Ailing. The life-size sculpture features a Benoist bi-plane commenting the world’s first commercial plane flight by pilot Tony Janus in 1914.
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 a movement of their own.
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 note of the parking space number and walk to a payment kiosk to deposit $4 for two hours. It’s a small price to pay for access to pristine beaches and the pier’s grounds. Pro Tip: View weekday vs. weekend parking rates here.
GREEN BENCH BREWING COMPANY
Central Avenue in St. Petes offers visitors in search of murals, breweries, eateries, and hipster shopping a place to feel right at home.
We stopped by Green Bench Brewing Company, which was crawling with beer lovers who were pre-gaming before heading to the Tampa Bay Rays baseball game across the street at Tropicana Field.
Known for serving craft beer, mead, and cider, Green Bench’s slogan is “It’s more than beer. It’s community.” If you’re not sure what you want to order, they’re happy to pour you a sample or two. The menu is always changing. The staff goes out of their way to make patrons feel right at home.
Pro Tip: I’d recommend sipping your drink outside on the astroturf patio to hang out with locals. Patio tables with umbrellas provide shade from the sun. Love dogs? Bring yours! You’ll love the relaxed vibe.
BODEGA ON CENTRAL
When I spot a long line outside of a restaurant, my interest is piqued. Bodega on Central attracts hungry locals like bees to honey. They serve Latin street food made with fresh ingredients. From salads to fresh squeezed juices and sandwiches to desserts, your mouth will salivate while looking at the menu of options.
Several of us in our group 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 to you. View the menu here.
MURALS
There is a long list of things to do when in the St.Pete area including mural hunting. Its known for its eye-catching street art found in various district within the city. View a list of areas to track down massive murals here.
INDIAN SHORES
Our condo was a 40-minute drive from St. Pete’s and only a short drive to local eateries and coffeeshops. Every where you look, you’ll see signage with names like Aloha To Go, The Dog & Parrot or Salt Rock Grill. Influenced by the water, restaurants and play up the seaside vibes.
DJ’S CLAM SHACK
We chose to have lunch at DJ’s Claim Shack, a franchise restaurant popularized by Food Network’s Guy Fieri. The fast casual restaurant appeared on the chef’s Drive-Ins, Diners and Dives show. The most popular item on the menu is the lobster roll, according to the employee who took our order. Curiously, I asked about Conch Fritters. It was a hard “no!” for me.
I settled for the Fish & Chips, which arrived to 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.
Pro Tip: A small restaurant, seating is first come, first served. However, outdoor patio tables accommodate patrons on a busy day. Takeout ordering is available.
CLEARWATER
BENEDICT’S
We were craving a scratch-made breakfast so we drove to Benedict’s after learning it was highly rated on TripAdvisor. Situated in a strip mall near a grocery store, this unsuspecting restaurant serves incredibly satisfying food. The portions were heart and the food plating was eye-catching.
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 up orders, and attending to our needs. The restaurant experience was 5-stars.
Pro Tip: Arrive before the weekend brunch rush by dining early.
CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM
Touring Clearwater Marin Aquarium was my chance to see sea life up close and learn about their rehabilitation, an opportunity I don’t get in Kansas. My goal? To watch dolphins swimming and happily interacting with visitors. I had never seen one before this trip!
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 of the exhibits showcase information about 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 hand-ons Animal Care Experience here. Members get a discount on tickets.
This year, the aquarium is celebrating 50 years of dedication to marine life so be sure to check the website prior to your visit to learn about special events and discounts.
Pro Tip: If you arrive in your own vehicle, you can park in the nearby parking garage. Ticketing is on the third level near the entrance. We parked our car in the neighborhood and walked to the aquarium’s third level to purchase admission. Plan your visit and get directions to the aquarium here.
PIER 60
Beach life doesn’t get any better than hanging out near Pier 60. Performers, events, and food vendors make for a lively experience at the beach on just about any given day.
During our visit, an overcast sky and wind had closed the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, but we still made the most of our self-guided tour. You can expect sunshine and clear water most days.
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. Charters are also available for serious fishermen who want to leave the shore to reel in a big one.
If traveling with family, make a point to stop at the sandy playground and take a photo with the colorful public artwork on display. I was impressed by the massive size of the monkey bars, jungle gym, and swing set areas. Bathrooms and refreshment areas are within walking distance.
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, every 15 minutes Friday-Sunday.
CRABBY’S DOCKSIDE
We drove to Crabby’s Dockside for lunch – more fresh seafood! A beachside restaurant with views of the marina, it’s an ideal spot for a mid-day break.
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. Other menu items that caught my eye for a future visit included the Stuffed Flounder and Clam Chowder.
Pro Tip:To get a sneak peek of the restaurant’s upper deck view, check out their live web cam here. Because of the weather, the deck’s shades were pulled during our visit, but I still think it was worth the visit and the food was scrumptious.
Have I convinced you to escape the Florida yet? The fresh sea air, the sound of the gulls overhead, splashing waves, and the sunshine are reasons enough. Plus, there is a long list of leisure activities designed for every kind of traveler in the St. Petesburg/Clearwater area. It is paradise away from home.
The residents have always treated me kindly. Their welcoming spirit is genuine. I’m one of the town’s biggest fans for its progressiveness, focus on the arts, and plethora of entertainment options.
LODGING
I had the pleasure of staying in the 
The new hotel features Hilton’s expected amenities and then some. The beautifully decorated hotel is designed in a modern style with references to the region from the lobby’s opulent, gas-powered fireplace to the private library with the finest furnishings.
Guests also have access to complimentary free nearby parking, a hot breakfast, free WiFi, evening socials Monday-Wednesday. The impressive evening socials give guests a chance to unwind with an alcoholic beverage and a light dinner – and it’s all included in your stay.
The fitness room was the largest I’d ever seen in a hotel and it featured top-of-the-line exercise equipment. For swimmers looking to do laps, the pool is definitely large enough. Lounge chairs also make it an ideal place to sit back and close your eyes in relaxation. The facilities were clean and spacious. 
Homewood Suites by Hilton has thought of EVERYTHING. For travelers who have an extended stay, they’ve provided a laundry room for guests to use, a delightful discovery. Imagine arriving home with a suitcase of clean clothes!
And it gets better! Upon check-in, you’ll be asked what kind of complimentary coupon you would like to use at the hotel’s Starbucks cafe. Buy One, Get One specialty coffee beverages? Don’t mind if I do. Homewood Suites by Hilton rolls out the red carpet. After getting settled into your room, you’ll want to extend your stay. I highly recommend 
The 90-minute dramedy, set in 1912, told the story of scientist Marie Curie who spent two months at her friend Hertha Ayrton’s seaside home recovering from the emotional scars from public scrutiny. The two-person cast performed in a black box theatre where the audience sat only feet from them. It was a moving experience.
I love a museum that tells a story well. Did you know that Salina was once the third-largest producer of flour in the world? The newest exhibit, “
Eventually, the town became a crossroads for industry that included the railroad, Schilling Air Force Base (closed in 1966), technology companies, trucking, and healthcare.
The museum includes an abundance of hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. From examining parts of a buffalo to building a city and starting a tornado to playing with old-fashioned toys, Smoky Hill Museum is an entertaining experience. Make sure to walk upstairs to 
Before you exit the museum, purchase Kansas-made products and keepsakes in the gift shop. They have a wide selection of travel guides and non-fiction books about Kansas.
There is no charge to visit the Smoky Hill Museum. They are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Plan your visit 
Opened as the Fox-Watson Theatre in 1931, it was the idea of a wealthy grocer and banker in Salina. W.W. Watson, with help from others, opened the doors to the movie palace considered “one of the most beautiful in Kansas.” (Source: Stiefel Theatre). It was later renamed after Milton Stiefel who was a major contributor to its renovation.
Fast forward decades later after a major renovation in 2003. The theatre’s state-of-the-art sound system, backstage accommodations, and stunning interior make it a must-stop venue for performers.
Later, I met up with the executive director of the 
If you also appreciate listening to orchestral music or perhaps have always wanted to hear it, you can purchase tickets to one or all of the six concerts performed each year. The holiday show is so well attended that it was expanded to two days.
My first priority when touring Rolling Hills Zoo was to visit the giraffe exhibit. I approached the area slowly as to not startle them. To my surprise, Zuri, Billie, and the youngest, Korey, were as interested in me as I was in them. Korey, who was born in December 2020, is 10 feet tall and growing. The other giraffes are 11 years old.
I visited the zoo in the early afternoon hours when most of the animals were napping, including a bear in a hammock. However, a tiger rose from his slumber to yawn in acknowledgment of passersby. Capybaras and flamingos explored. Barnyard animals greeted children.
The zoo has an 
A visit to Rolling Hills Zoo should be at the top of your list of things to do when in Salina. To experience the upcoming events, view gate admission prices and the zoo’s hours, visit the 
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Known for carrying antiques, market finds, and locally-made jewelry, 
In search of new clothes to add to your closet? 
I came home with a pair of earrings from 
Also a place for families, the youngest visitors will appreciate the children’s book section and inviting gumball machine. I recommend asking about the specialty coffee of the month. Proceeds from my purchase of a Bee Kind Latté went to a local non-profit. You’ll find it difficult to leave without buying a book, t-shirt, or Kansas-themed gift.
DAGNEY’S ICE CREAM
MARTINELLI’S LITTLE ITALY
Leave room for homemade tiramisu or creme brûlée. Ask for the drink and dessert menus before ordering your meal to plan ahead. The family-style portions are HUGE. A quarter-size pasta dish is prepared with a half-pound of pasta. The spaghetti comes with a one-pound meatball. You’ll need a to-go box.
DAIMARU STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
Daimaru is popular with locals. The sushi chefs never stood still. I watched as they prepared enormous sushi platters. Artfully designed, the sushi tasted as good as it looked.
But I needed a sidekick to go with my breakfast waffles. I ordered a Dirty Chai Tea Latté. It arrived to my table in a mug so large that I had to use two hands just to sip my tea. Absolutely delicious. Norm’s serves espresso, brewed coffees, and blended drinks of all kinds.
The coffee bar is also well-liked by locals. You will always find a few people in line or waiting for their to-go coffee orders. The service is swift, so you never wait long. But even if you had to wait, it’s a comfortable space to enjoy. On the day of my visit, I listened to the sounds of John Mayer playing from the speakers while watching the barista hard at work steaming milk and pouring latté art in each cup.
When in Newton, stop into 
Anderson’s is the place to go if you need a fresh stack of legal pads, to have your typewriter repaired, or if you need basic mailing supplies. In search of Scotch™ tape or a printer cartridge? Tell Phil what you need and he’ll happily direct you to it. I never leave Anderson’s without a new ink pen or stationary, and I always leave Anderson’s having made a new memory.
Phil is the kind of guy who is eager to talk about Wichita State or University of Kansas sports, colleges we both attended. We bond over a shared love of basketball, and we chat about the history of the story and the importance of shopping local. It’s always a pleasure to spend time in Anderson’s whether I’m in search of new office supplies or just talking with Phil. Even if you don’t need office supplies or a gift for someone, open the door to 
It is my go-to boutique when I’m hunting down a new seasonal candle or wax melt. But I never leave with just a few items. The shelves of jams and jellies, coasters and collectibles, and shoes and accessories call to me. My shopping bag is always full of irresistible goodies, which is often filled with gifts for others. The temptation to shop there has only grown stronger. They now carry a large selection of women’s apparel including an entire jean wall.
Without a doubt, you will find something that you can’t live without at Main Street Co. & Kitchen Corner. Homemade fudge? Yes, please! Free sample of gourmet food? Check the back counter! I’m still kicking myself for not buying the popcorn bowls pictured below. They are perfect for movie nights at home or game day parties, don’t you think?
Since bringing both stores under one roof, business is booming. They have a loyal following of shoppers who purchase items both in person and online. If you can’t make it to the shop, Main Street Co. & Kitchen Corner makes it easy to score sales online via their Facebook live events and mobile app. To find out about upcoming shopping events, visit 
The store is organized and managed by a small group of volunteers who are eager to help you find your next read. Open six days a week, book lovers can peruse well-stocked shelves for every genre from non-fiction to true romance. They make searching out a new book easy, too. The volunteer workers have painstakingly categorized the books and created thoughtful displays.
Bonus tip! Look for a small section of “free books” across from the register. Consider yourself warned. If you bring a tower of books to the register, you need to pay with cash or check. Credit cards are not accepted. Review the store’s hours and plan your visit 
The store’s shelves are neatly stocked with rows of specialty foods. The refrigerator cases keep locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce chilled. The smoothie bar is ready to serve customers.
They offer options for buying in bulk in multiple stations around the store. I recommend you bring your own container to purchase grains and spices. Top off a growler with fresh Tea-biotics kombucha. Fill a plastic jug with liquid soap. In search of whole bean coffee? You’re in luck! They roast their own beans.
What did I take home? The most delicious ice cream that I’ve tasted in a long time. Made in Newton, Salted Creamery Ice Cream comes in a variety of flavors sold by the pint. I took home Caramel Butter Pecan and Key Lime Pie – both selections came highly recommended by the store’s staff. You’ll find them inside the reach-in freezer located near the dining area of the store.
Open since 2015, the store is operated as a non-profit with the hope of connecting people with the resources they need. Within moments of my visit, I spotted books and supplies for every age. Parents with children in tow will appreciate the kids’ section devoted to their reading needs. Seeking a journal for devotionals or an inspirational book of quotes? Faith & Life carries a large inventory of gifts, which are also available to purchase via their website for online shopping 
Known for their delicious wood-fired pizza, I asked an employee and a local waiting in line which one of the signature pies I should order. It was a tough choice since so many of them sounded good, but I chose the Graffiti, a 1o” pizza topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, onion, peppers, and black olives. The crust was thin with a crunchy, thick rim. Each slice gave way to a stringy mozzarella cheese for the ultimate cheese pull.
Having arrived just after the restaurant opened for lunch, I sat back and watched as the place filled up to almost capacity with locals. The menu brings them back. Back Alley Pizza sells pizzas (no individuals slices!), heaping salads, toasted subs, and cannolis for dessert. They keep the menu choices simple allowing diners to choose from 11 signature pizzas or to customize their own. The portions are large considering the price – a great value lunch or dinner option. Thirsty? Back Alley Pizza has a self-serve beverage station complete with soda products, but the popular choice is fresh-brewed ice tea served sweetened or unsweetened.
The atmosphere is relaxed. Diners casually chat about the day’s happenings as the staff pulls one pizza after another from the wood-fired oven. A large TV can be seen from anywhere in the dining room making it a great place to catch game highlights while enjoying a meal with friends. But it’s also an ideal place to dine with family. I saw a number of parents and kids excitedly sharing a pizza. It’s the place in town where everyone loves to dine. When will you visit? View the restaurant’s hours and menu 
Within walking distance of the downtown district, my eyes spotted a weathered mural. Located at 119 W. 5th St., it was painted on a metal surface over 20 years ago. Simple yet patriotic, it’s worthy of a visit.
One of the newest murals in town is at 817 N. Main in honor of the town’s police, fire, and EMS workers. Other symbolic images are represented in the display including a train, sunflowers, wheat, and the American flag.
Of course, a trip to Newton wouldn’t be complete without taking a photo in front of the massive flower mural. What began as an oversized stretch of botanicals and clouds evolved into the brightly colored image seen below. To find the 526 Mural, visit the 100 block of E 6th Street. You can’t miss it.
Lastly, you must see 
I used the Historic Newton Downtown Walking Tour guide to help me locate significant buildings. Soon, I located the town’s first well, which was dug to provide drinking water to residents in 1871. It was considered the “best water for several years thereafter.” Today, a flowing fountain marks the general location of the well that sits just beyond the doors of the train station at Depot Park.
Military Park (Broadway St. between Oak and Pine Streets) is the oldest park in town. Established in 1871, it is the site of Soldier’s Monument, a 10-inch cannon, and an 1880s steam locomotive. It’s not far from the center of downtown.
While multiple train depots have existed in Newton since the town’s inception, today’s operational depot (400 N. Main) is a distinct destination worthy of a visit. The active station serves BNSF’s tracks and Amtrak’s Southwest Chief Train. Railroad heritage is well-known in Newton and its symbol appears on the 
He was instrumental in the Mennonite migration to the area and he single-handedly brought Turkey Red hard winter wheat to the area and made it a staple crop. Have you heard Kansas referred to as the “Breadbasket of the World?” We can thank Warkentin for helping to make that happen.
Warkentin and his wife, Wilhelmina, and their two children moved into the Queen Ann-Style mansion in 1888. Now, it is a museum that offers tours by appointment January-March and on weekends depending on the time of year.
The Warkentin’s spared no expense when designing their home down to the smallest details. I was enamored by the door’s metal finishes, the changing wood floors from room to room, the expansive size of the bedrooms, and the imported furnishings. The kitchen tells the story of what it must have been like to work as a servant for the family in close quarters to a formal dining room – and wait until you see the butler’s pantry! Wilhelmina wanted the best china and linens. Her taste for luxury is reflected throughout the home.
Visiting the home allows everyday people to get a glimpse of what luxury living looked like during a time when rural Kansas was just beginning to prosper. I recommend taking a moment to enjoy the view from the home’s wrap-around porch. To view the museums hours and plan a visit, visit their Facebook page 
“Immigrant People” is an exhibit that documents how Mennonites packed their belongings and traveled by rail or wagon and eventually by steam-powered ships to America. Later as homesteaders, they took root in the open prairie in what is now Newton. While some had money, most were poor yet hopeful for the future. The museum also includes a large collection of Native American clothing and belongings.
I appreciated the Historic Farmstead and Gardens, which are open to tour with a museum employee. The outdoor buildings were built in 1875 and 1886 and were moved to their current site. I suggest trying the hands-on experiences in the barn. Take a moment to shuck corn using old-fashioned machinery or compare your height to the silhouette of a draft horse. Are you interested in agriculture? The museum’s garden is tended by volunteers. The produce is for sale when in season at the gift shop.
Fantastic 
To plan a trip to Kaufmann Museum and learn more about their current and upcoming exhibits, visit their 
What a town! I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my love of Newton with you. It’s a charming town within a short drive from Wichita that offers visitors plenty to do and see. Newton’s walkable downtown district, local restaurants, and nearby attractions make it a fantastic option for day-trippers in search of adventure.
The 
“A Little This, A Lotta That” exhibit includes items from Joe and Nellie Kuska. She was a Colby school teacher who devoted her entire life to collecting glass, coins, furniture, toys, dolls, and more. Joseph and Nellie eventually moved to California and opened a museum, but now the collection is on display for visitors of The Prairie Museum to enjoy. Of all of her belongings, I was enamored by her collection of glass pieces. Having visited the Corning Museum of Glass and the Wichita Art Museum’s collection of glass, this exhibit easily competed with them regarding the quality of singular pieces.
The exhibit “Over Here Over There” stopped me in my tracks. The case you see below houses uniforms from different military branches worn by Thomas County residents dating back to WWI. Looking closely, you will see a white badge on each uniform identifying the soldier who wore it. Some of the badges also include a photo that personalized the story.
Beyond the museum’s doors is a campus of historical buildings worth checking out. I spent a little under an hour touring them. The yellow house pictured below, owned by the Eller family, is significant because it is one of the earliest homes built in Colby in 1903. The family purchased the home three years later. I was surprised to walk inside and find a fully furnished home – even the piano in the living room had sheet music on display. A home tour revealed the story of rural life in the 1930s.
The one-room schoolhouse, aka “Nicol School,” serves as a time capsule to an earlier time. Schoolhouses in Thomas County closed when school consolidation took place. Walking into the District #15 building gives you an idea of what almost 100 schoolhouses across Kansas looked like at the time. I noticed that the schoolhouse didn’t have a bell atop its roof to allow the teacher to alert students to return to class after recess. Did she use the bell on the desk?
Colby is known for its hardworking farmers, so it was no surprise to find antique farming equipment on site. According to kfb.org, one farmer feeds 168 people. Farmers and ranchers receive only 19 cents of every dollar spent on food eaten at home and away from home. Farm fields as far as the eye can see greet visitors to Colby along KS I-70.
A major reason for my visit to Colby was to step foot inside The Cooper Barn. The largest barn in Kansas stands 66′ wide, 114′ long, and 48′ high. Voted one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture, I had to look inside. I drew back one of the barn doors. The interior was impeccably clean. The first floor’s exhibit, “Agriculture on the High Plains: High Dry,” encourages visitors to imagine farming during water scarcity. What’s on the third floor? You’ll have to see it for yourself when you visit Colby.
Lone Star Church is a quiet space to collect your thoughts and enjoy a bit of solitude while on the museum’s grounds. Built in 1915, it was brought from Gem, Kansas to its current location. Visitors to the sanctuary will appreciate its stained glass windows and restored woodwork. Would you ring the church bell?
After wrapping up my tour of the Prairie Museum, I made the short drive to one of the town’s biggest attractions, 
Colby’s pride and joy these days is its newest attraction, the 
After touring the state-of-the-art event venue, I decided to check out a store in town that I heard rave reviews about, 
The photo below is of the boutique’s second building, which mostly features kitchen and dining room items. Garden lovers will appreciate the animal statuary and botanical stems. Calligraphy signs are tucked neatly into vignettes. Who doesn’t need a little sign that reads, “If you had to choose between tacos every day or being thin forever, would you choose hard or soft?” The shopping fun continues in Maevis & Magpie’s main building, where final transactions are made.
The store has a space devoted to lounging and enjoying confections, ice cream, and cold drinks. Brightly colored booths line the wall, and jars of retro candies tempt shoppers to stock up on their favorites. I bet it also doubles as a great place to keep the kids happy while Mom shops until her heart’s content.
With bags of home decor finds in my car, I drove to the ever-popular 
With time to spare before heading to Goodland, I drove back into town to relax at Fike Park, located north of the courthouse. The park, named after a one-time town mayor, was breathtaking.
For me, a highlight of the park was capturing photos of its remarkable art installations. I appreciated how a chainsaw artist took what was most likely a dying tree and transformed it into a work of art.
A second masterpiece caught my eye. It was a mini Statue of Liberty similar to the one I had seen in downtown Hays, Kansas. She stood with poise, welcoming park visitors at one corner of the lawn. It is one of the 25 Statue of Liberty replicas in Kansas. The tiny Lady Liberty statues were placed in public spaces by the Boy Scouts of America for their 40th anniversary.
The clock was ticking, and I needed to get back on the road, but my day in Colby was made better by the many cool things to do in town. I can’t wait to return to shop on Main Street and dine at 
Jose Ray painted this whimsical wonder on the side of a building located at Avenue A Park in 2013. I love the way her eyes are looking up at the top window. Ray’s works typically include fantastical scenes painted using bright colors. When not painting murals, Ray works as a DJ spinning tunes.
“Farmer Time” (111 W. 2nd Ave.) by Brady Scott beautifies the side of Sandhills Brewing Company. It makes a good-looking backdrop for brewery fans who want to take a photo to document their visit.
“Ad Astra” (Avenue A and Main) painted by David Loewenstein in 2012 shows a night sky full of stars. But if you look closely, the constellations resemble symbols of the Sunflower State. Which ones do you recognize?
A ferris wheel, which I think references the Kansas State Fair, is part of “Ad Astra 2” located near the constellations painting. Just below it figures enjoying Hutchinson attractions like the Cosmosphere and outdoor parks.
The “Rainbow Lion” (2 N. Main) leaves a big impression on downtown passersby. Painted by Jerimiah Tolbert, the colorful cat was commissioned by Bob and Ann Bush in 2018. It’s actually a stretched canvas print, but it looks like a mural from afar. The artist sells mini prints, coffee mugs, and cards featuring the lion 
I’ve taken photos of this pheasant in flight mural many times while visiting downtown Hutchinson. Brady Scott adorned the backside of Sandhills Brewing Company (111 W. 2nd Avenue) with the bird scene. Although it’s referred to as the “Farmers Market Mural,” it suits the building well since the brewery’s interior is decorated with illustrations of feathered friends.
A hub of all things creative in town, the 
Hutchinson, Kansas is a vibrant community with murals to match. A short drive from Wichita, I encourage you to visit the town and slowly drive up and down its downtown while looking at street art. Better yet? Park the car and walk the downtown area. Not only will you see murals, but the town is decorated with public artwork of all kinds including sculptures.
This mural round-up only scratches the surface of Hutchinson’s street art collection. To view more of them and locate their whereabouts, visit this 
