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railroad

Exploring the Historic Charm of Atchison, Kansas

June 20, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Locally Atchison. All opinions and photos are my own. 

Atchison is a charming, historic town in northeast Kansas worth exploring for its almost endless things to see and do. From scenic views of the Missouri River and visiting museums to dining and shopping downtown, it has more than enough attractions for an overnight stay.

Downtown Atchison KansasHistorically 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.

Fast forward to today, Atchison, with Victorian homes and river views, is a town begging to be discovered.

Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum

MEMORABLE MUSEUMS

Atchison Railroad Museum/Atchison County Historical Museum

One of the most notable landmarks in Atchison is the Historic Santa Fe Depot (200 W. 10th St.), home to Atchison Railroad Museum/Atchison County Historical Museum and the Atchison Visitor Center. Whiskey Depot taproom recently opened inside the depot to serve locally-crafted spirits.

Built in 1880, the depot accommodated incoming and outgoing goods shipments when the town was a significant rail center. The building is no longer used for its initial purpose, but the Union Pacific Railroad main line still runs adjacent to it.

Atchison Train Depot
Locate a bridge and walking path connecting the depot’s parking lot to a smaller lot parallel to U.S. 59 Highway. The marker details America’s 1804 Independence Day celebration by Lewis and Clark when they passed through town.

A self-guided tour of the museum inside includes the achievements of businesses and entrepreneurs who made Atchison what it is today. You’ll walk upon restored hardwood floors to view dozens of thematic displays.

historic museumIn 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.

Atchison Railroad Museum
The depot reopened in 1989 as a destination for visitors and Atchison residents.

I’ve toured several historical museums in the state, and this one is one of the best for its vast collection of artifacts. From railroad memorabilia to manufacturing tools, I was impressed to learn that many notable Kansans were from Atchison.

baseball team
Oscar Raymond “Heavy” Johnson grew up in Atchison and went on to play in the Negro Leagues from 1922-1933.

Jesse Stone wrote songs performed by Elvis and other rock stars. Stone wrote the song “Shake, Rattle, and Roll,” the most recorded song in history that began the era of Rock and Roll.

Also, Atchison was the first city to comply with the Brown vs. The Board of Education ruling to desegregate schools, thanks to principal Evelyn Harper’s influence.

Atchison County Historical Museum
In 1921, Fred Stein founded the Atchison Radio & Electric company that produced radio-receiving equipment; experimented with wireless phones.

You’ll be glad you toured the museum before exploring the rest of town. The interpretive displays and artifacts provide a foundation of knowledge to better appreciate the town’s legendary history.

sculpture
The sculpture depicts a time when the Lewis & Clark Expedition stopped at the location that would eventually become Atchison. They camped near the former Kanza Indian village.

Did you know President Abraham Lincoln journeyed to Atchison in 1859 while traveling west? He reportedly remarked, “I have told many a person – if you want to go West – Atchison or Leavenworth would be fine places to get a start.”

farm equipment
The depot building is a historic artifact in its own right as the last standing railroad Santa Fe railroad structure.

PRO TIP: Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR codes on the museum’s displays to learn more about them or watch a video. Plan to spend at least an hour enjoying the museum and perusing the gift shop.

Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum

The most famous person to call Atchison home is world-renowned female aviator Amelia Earhart. She was born on July 24, 1897, in her grandparent’s home (pictured below) and lived there until age 12.

Born to a father who was a lawyer and a mother who honored Amelia’s love of curiosity, she and her sister Muriel often played outdoors, inventing games, building a rollercoaster, and climbing trees.

Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum (223 N. Terrace St.) is open to tour six days a week for a reasonable admission fee.

Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum
The home is listed as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas People sites.

While you can certainly take a 30-minute self-guided home tour, I appreciated learning about Amelia and her family during a guided hour-long tour. On the ground floor of the 1861 Victorian home, the family used various rooms to entertain guests, including the dining room, where Amelia rarely dressed up for dinner.

Amelia Earhart
Amelia’s family used the home until 1912 when her grandparents passed away. Later, two families occupied the house, and Ninety-Nines, Inc eventually purchased it.

Amelia’s family appreciated her love of adventure. Her dad purchased a 10-minute plane ride for her in 1920, thus inspiring her love of flight.

Can you imagine what she daydreamed about when looking out her two-story bedroom window at the fields surrounding the Missouri River? She earned her pilot’s license at age 24.

dining room
As you walk the home, admire its ornate decor and radiators. The home was heated by steam heating.
Look for Amelia’s dresser in her childhood bedroom, one of only a few original furniture pieces in the home. Amelia’s grandmother Otis had the message burned into one of the drawers in 1904.

At 34 years old, Amelia was the first woman aviation to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932. Artifacts and framed photographs documenting her aviation career are meticulously displayed in the museum. However, the exhibit about Amelia’s other careers caught my attention.

Did you know she worked as a clothing designer, nurse’s aide, and magazine editor, often giving speeches nationwide?

Photo with Amelia
The bedroom, likely Amelia’s sister’s room, addresses the conspiracy theories surrounding Amelia’s airplane crash.

I recommend touring Amelia Earhart’s Birthplace Museum to glimpse the past while learning how she would become one of the most revered pilots of her time.

PRO TIP: Follow the museum’s Facebook page to view Focused in Friday posts featuring in-depth details about the home.

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum

A new attraction on the edge of town is garnering attention, the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum (16701 286th Rd.). Opened in 2023, the museum is dedicated to recounting the aviator’s life while teaching visitors about aviation using interactive displays.

Amelia Earhart Hangar MuseumI 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.

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum
An actress provided the voice and body movements to create the simulated Amelia Earhart animated video.

The can’t-miss museum feature was incredible, but perhaps not as unbelievable as what awaited me inside.

Amelia Earhart plane replica
In 1937, Earhart and Fred Noonan disappeared somewhere over the Pacific Ocean en route to Howland Island in an identical plane.

The world’s last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E, named Muriel after the identical plane Earhart flew on her final flight, sits on display for visitors to admire. The aircraft is named after her younger sister.

museum exhibit
The Careers Paths exhibit lets you create an aviator and determine which of Amelia’s careers suits you.

You’ll appreciate the museum’s highly interactive displays that trace Earhart’s childhood, career paths, and aviation feats. The museum’s designers did an excellent job incorporating audio and visual technology, keeping visitors engaged.

museum exhibitThe 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.

Other hands-on museum activities include adding divest, tracing aircraft holograms, sit-in inside a full-scale cockpit, and listening to a radio interview.

PRO TIP: Explore the museum’s second floor, Amelia’s Guiding Lights, to learn how she flew over the ocean using constellations to guide the way.

The Cultural Center

Innovative thinking meets creativity at The Cultural Center (111 N. 8th St.). Visitors can tour the museum for free (donations welcome) to admire the work of exceptional artists.

I was impressed with how the current exhibit included an interactive component. See Kansas Road Trip Summer 2023 exhibition, featuring travel posters, encouraged visitors to use map pins to indicate if they had visited or planned to visit each destination.

art gallery
The exhibit includes 26 WPA Federal Art Project National Park travel posters with 1930s and 1940s designs. It runs until September 31, 2023.

I had a blast having my photo taken with a life-sized cardboard cutout of a car – the perfect snapshot for a travel writer.

portrait
Who wants to go on a road trip to Atchison, Kansas?

PRO TIP: They also host workshops, classes, and First Friday events. Check the Facebook page for details.

HISTORICAL HOMES

The Evah Cray Museum

I love when a beautifully restored home doubles as a museum. The Evah Cray Museum (805 N. 5th St.) takes your breath away when you see it from the street.

The Evah Cray Museum
The home is listed on the National Registers of Historic Places.

The Victorian-era three-story home was built by W.W. Hetherington for his family in 1882. Inspired by his love of Scottish castles, the ornate woodwork, five fireplaces, and chandeliers are evidence of his appreciation of the finer things.

Cray House 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.

The family had five children. A one-of-a-kind bassinet, a high chair that converts to a stroller, and children’s clothing decorate their rooms.

fireplaceWalking 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.stained glass windowOutdoors, an elaborate driveway leads to a restored carriage house that begs to be photographed.carriage houseThe 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.mantelMy 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.bedroomPRO 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.

Muchnic Art Gallery

A personal tour of the historic Muchnic Art Gallery (704 N. 4th St.) is well worth an hour of your day. Now serving as a gallery for rotating art, lumber merchant George Howell built the Queen Anne-style home in 1885.

Muchnic Gallery 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.

historic parlor
Bedrooms are located opposite this sitting area upstairs. Each room’s door includes a stained glass transom.

Howell spent $16,000 to build the mansion, adding five bedrooms and four bathrooms. My docent-led tour upstairs was a highlight of the afternoon. The vibrant stained glass windows leading up the staircase reveal an impressive sitting room with parquet flooring, my favorite room of the home.

chandelier
The family loved to entertain. They would remove the furniture from the center of the three parlors to provide room for the orchestra, which played for hundreds of guests.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, The Muchnic Foundation maintains the home. Since 1970, the house has been used by Atchison Art Association as an exhibition space to showcase the work of phenomenal artists and photographers.

fireplace tile
Each fireplace’s surrounds featured brightly-colored tile with floral patterns and Victorian themes. Even the cast iron interior and bronze fireplace trim are elaborately designed.stairwellTo view the home and its galleries, check their Facebook page for current hours and suggested donation fees.

PRO TIP: Muchnic Art Gallery also offers art classes and hosts special events periodically.

DELECTABLE DINING

The Sunflower

A perfect day of exploring Atchison starts at The Sunflower (117 B. N. 5th St.), where the baked goods and coffee drinks are the highlight, and the welcoming customer service is a bonus. The bagel breakfast sandwich with a KC Roasterie drip coffee hit the spot as I took in my surroundings.

bagel sandwich and coffeeThe 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.coffee shop counterYou’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.

PRO TIP: Walk down to Jerry’s Again (125 N. 5th St.) for a slice of pie and to shop its retail section. The restaurant is owned and operated by the same family as The Sunflower.

Lopez de Mexico

Colorful overhead flags and booths decorated with framed family photos set the scene at Lopez de Mexico (112 S. 6th St.), a family-operated restaurant in the heart of downtown Atchison. I was fortunate to visit with the owner, Ann, who shared how she studied her grandmother’s recipes and opened the restaurant 27 years ago.

The restaurant is known for its crispy beef tacos, which to my delight, were a lunch special the day of my visit. Ann served a complimentary plate of pasta tossed in a tomato garlic sauce on the side, an authentic dish.

tacosBetween 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.”

PRO TIP: Seat yourself when you walk in, and a server will greet you tableside.

Pete’s Steakhouse

Flaming cheese delivered to your table? Sign me up!

Expect delicious food with flair at Pete’s Steak House (618 Commercial St.). Local chef Nick Tsamolias’ menu lists lunch and upscale dinner options you might find on a big city’s restaurant menu. The Saganaki flaming appetizer is a fan favorite. Our server served the falmbéed Greek cheese on a scalding hot pan.Pete's Steak House 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.carbonaraPRO TIP: The restaurant does accept walk-in diners, but the restaurant is a popular place, so consider making a reservation.

Willie’s Sports Pub

Every town needs a celebrated sports bar where locals and visitors can gather for heaping plates of food and a cold drink. People line up outside Willie’s Sports Pub (701 Commercial St.), waiting for it to open at lunchtime.

chicken saladYou can count on our favorite bar and grill menu items. The list includes burgers and sandwiches to chicken wings and sirloin steaks.

willie'sI 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.

You can expect excellent, prompt service in a welcoming atmosphere.

PRO TIP: Do you love craft beer? The restaurant has an extensive canned beer selection and 10 beers on tap.

SMOOTH SPIRITS

Whiskey Depot

I found a treasure! Whiskey Depot is the latest addition to Atchison, a beautiful place to sip a craft cocktail made with spirits made in town at MGP Ingredients Collaborative. A leading distilled spirits manufacturer, Midwest Grain Products (MGP) is headquartered in the town where it started in 1941.

whiskey drinks

The Bootlegger Old Fashion with a splash of Sprite was a happy hour win. Serving whiskey, gin, tequila, and vodka drinks, they pour Boulevard Brewing Company and The Free State Brewing Co. beer and wine. Located in a historic train depot, it is the quintessential place to unwind while surrounded by history.

Whiskey Depot

The tasting room’s framed artwork and depot aesthetic do a fantastic job of telling the distillery’s story. Cloud L. Cray, Sr., started the company producing alcohol-based spirits during World War II.

distilled spirits

The taproom is an after-work gathering space for patrons who appreciate a high-quality, handcrafted cocktail or whiskey flight. As they say, “Sit. Stay. Drink Whiskey.”

PRO TIP: If you enjoy your experience, purchase merchandise from their retail area.

SATISFYING SHOPPING

Purveyor

Purveyor (715 Commercial St.) is a modern-day general store specializing in eco-friendly goods by fair-trade brands. I consider it one-stop, feel-good shopping for the home goods you didn’t realize you needed but desperately wanted when you see them.

PurveyorLaunched 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.

purveyorPRO 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.

Presley Pierce Interiors

What do you get when you combine a talent for interior decorating and a passion for delivering stellar customer service? Presley Pierce Interiors (500 Commercial St.) offers homeowners up-to-date home decor, customized stationary, and gifts like no other store in Atchison.

boutiqueWhether 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.

Paisley PierceShoppers 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 Facebook page.

PRO TIP: While the store receives a lot of foot traffic, you can also purchase items you see on its Facebook page and have them shipped.

Thorne’s House of Cards & Collectibles

Enthusiasts of vintage toys and highly collectible trading cards will appreciate downtown Atchison’s newest addition, Thorne’s House of Cards & Collectibles (110 N. 6th St.). The owner’s ever-growing personal collection of nostalgic, pop culture items evolved into a store.

trading cardsWalking 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.

toysPRO TIP: Collectors will appreciate Thorne’s House Hot Packs containing budget-friendly starter packs. View the store’s Facebook page for sale announcements.

Twill Trade Boutique

Ladies who love a store that carries the latest fashions at affordable prices will love looking through the racks at Twill Trade Boutique (733 Commercial St.).

Constantly refreshed with new arrivals of blouses, dresses, skirts, and bottoms, the store marks down everything 15 percent off on the First Friday of the month.women's clothing boutiqueI 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.

women's dressesPRO TIP: Their blog page gives tips on dressing fashionably for the season.

Backroad Atlas

Backroad Atlas (517 Commercial St.) is an antique shoppers/pickers delight. As you walk the store, you will likely discover the perfect item for your home.antique storeTo 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.

antique shopShopping for a unique item is all the more charming thanks to the store’s cat, who occasionally visits customers to say hello.

PRO TIP: Backroad Atlas added a candy store since my visit. Ask about the sweet selection of retro candy.

HAUNTED HOUSES

Sallie House

Paranormal seekers have driven to Atchison for over a decade to experience its haunted houses. The unoccupied Sallie House (200 S. 10th St.), considered the town’s most haunted house, is open for tours and reservable overnight stays.

Sallie HouseA 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.

While I’ve toured the house and didn’t experience paranormal activity, many people reportedly did, including cold air and physical touches.

PRO TIP: To book a tour or overnight stay, visit the home’s official website.

1889 McInteer Villa

You may reconsider a tour of 1889 McInteer Villa (1301 Kansas Ave.) if you’re easily scared by things that go bump in the night. Built for Irish immigrant John McInteer, the home served as a private residence and later a rooming house.

McInteer MansionYou 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.

PRO TIP:  To view imagery of the home and see what you can expect during a visit, tour its online gallery.

PERFECT PARKS

International Forest of Friendship

Nature lovers interested in aviation history will adore the International Forest of Friendship (1 Allingham Dr.). The 35-acre forest is a peaceful retreat made up of paved paths leading to and from trees planted from all 50 states and 35 countries.

The park’s pathway honors those who have or still work in aviation, focusing on Amelia Earhart.Forest of Friendship StatueA 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.

pondManicured gardens and tree spaces dot the landscape. Find the gazebo to enjoy a shaded space of solitude. Sycamore TreePRO TIP: Take note of Memory Lane inductees’ names paying homage to aviation greats such as the Wright Brothers and Eileen Collins.

Jackson Park

Jackson Park (1500 S. 6th St). is another scenic area to check out, with rolling hills, walking trails, sand volleyball, and picnic spots with 100 acres of bird-watching opportunities.

Jackson ParkFamilies 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: The park features 18-hole and 9-hole disc golf courses, so pack your gear.

Reisner Park Skatepark

Youngsters who need to burn off energy will appreciate Reisner Park Skatepark (515 Kansas Ave.). Spectators can watch from artful benches as skateboarders and rollerbladers attempt ramps and the half-pipe.

Skate ParkPRO TIP: On-street parking is available at no cost.

OUTSTANDING OVERLOOKS

Benedictine College

One of the most stunning views of the Missouri River is seen from the overlook near St. Benedictine’s Abbey at Benedictine College (1020 N. 2nd St.).

Overlook 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.

PRO TIP: Use the campus interactive map to plan your route.

Riverfront Park / Lewis & Clark Pavilion

One of the most visited landmarks in town, Riverfront Park, featuring Lewis & Clark Pavilion (109 Commercial St.), includes a lovely river walk. The paved path meanders along the Missouri River with views of the Amelia Earhart Bridge on U.S. Hwy 59.

bridge
The bridge was renamed for the town’s famous aviator in 1997 to celebrate the centennial of her birth.

Walk to the pavilion to read its interpretive displays highlighting the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which stopped on the river’s banks on July 4, 1804. A nearby veterans memorial also deserves your attention.

PRO TIP: See impressive views of the river via a narrated Atchison Trolley Tour, which departs and returns via the Santa Fe Depot

LEARNING LANDMARKS

Community Remembrance Project

Located in the sculpture courtyard (400 block of Commercial St.) and amongst neighboring buildings, a historic landmark tells the story of George Johnson’s lynching by 50 white men.

Historical MarkerThe dedicated marker remembers the Atchison man who was the victim of violence after accidentally injuring a white man while hunting.

PRO TIP: To take a deep dive into the history of George Johnson, visit the Equal Justice Initiative’s website.

Amelia Earhart Sculpture

Did you know that a sculpture of Amelia Earhart stands in the U.S. Capitol National Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C.?

A similar one is installed in the Sculpture Courtyard depicting the famous aviator’s short hair and wind-blown scarf.

Amelia Earhart StatuePRO TIP: Earhart created her own fashion line, often wearing clothing from it. Learn more from History.com’s article.

“Reflections”

Artist Dave Beneman created the metal sculpture installment located in the courtyard. Installed in 2021, the 8-foot-tall creation is made of fabricated copper and bronze.

statuaryPRO TIP: Visit the association’s website to see all of the association’s public art projects in one place.

HOSPITABLE HOTEL

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

By far, the most comfortable stay while in Atchison has to be at Holiday Inn Express & Suites (401 Main St.). Whether you’re just arriving in town or retiring to your room after a full day of adventuring, the guest rooms deliver unmatched modern amenities.

hotel room
Each guest room has a mini refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.

At night, the black-out shades make for restful sleep. In the morning, the complimentary full breakfast is a nice perk.

hotel bed
Book early to secure a room during the town’s events, including the Amelia Earhart Festival, every July.

PRO TIP: Pack accordingly to take advantage of the hotel’s on-site fitness facility and indoor pool.

MORE PLACES TO CONSIDER

Fox Theatre Atchison

Families will relish watching a first-run, kid-friendly movie at Fox Theatre Atchison (612 Commercial St.). The concession stand stocks candy and popcorn – adult-only beverages are available.

Fox Theatre
Built in 1949, Fox Theatre operated as the town’s movie theater from 1949-2011.

Jerry’s Again Event Center

A beautiful event space is located upstairs from Jerry’s Again (125 N. 5th St.), a restaurant known for its wholesome meals and homemade pie. This is the place to reserve if you need to host a reception overlooking historic downtown Atchison.

event rentalFinal Thoughts

To visit Atchison is to fall in love with it. The historic town’s charming destinations and welcoming people make it a worthwhile overnight stay. Having only visited momentarily in the past, I’m thrilled that I could visit most of the town’s points of interest for you.

You’re going to love Atchison.

bench
Atchison Art Association’s Beautiful Benches Public Art Program installed numerous colorful seating areas around town.

If you appreciate Atchison’s historic charm, you may appreciate another write-up I did, Lawrence, Kansas: A Historical Tour.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: airport, Amelia Earhart, Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, art gallery, Atchison, Atchison County, aviation, Benedictine Collge, birthplace, boutique shopping, Cray House, Cultural Center for the Arts, distillery, event venue, forest, Fox Theatre, haunted houses, Holiday Inn, Jackson Park, Kansas, Kansas City, Lewis & Clark, Lopez de Mexico, mansion, Mechanic Art Gallery, Missouri River, mosaic, Northeast Kansas, overlook, Pete's Steakhouse, public art, railroad, Sallie House, skate park, The Sunflower Cafe, train depot, Whiskey Depot, Willie's Sports Bar

Wellington, Kansas: A Small Town Gem Just Waiting to Be Explored

May 15, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Wellington Chamber of Commerce/CVB hosted my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine. 

A 35-minute drive south of Wichita, Wellington is a Kansas town rooted in history with a thriving community of businesses and attractions. Three museums, scenic parks, unique shops, and hometown dining make it worth exiting I-35 South to see for yourself. Plus, the residents are just as welcoming as the town is charming.

flowers
A walkable downtown area, Wellington’s boutiques, museums, and restaurants offer plenty to do.

The county seat of Sumner County, Wellington, is an agriculture/railroad town of about 8,000 residents. The town was established in 1871. At a stop along the Chisholm Trail, cattlemen drove herds through town.

According to the Sumner County Press on November 20, 1873, “A part of cowboys from the trail made time lively last Friday night. Several pistol shots were fired in a saloon and on the street. No arrests.”

downtown Wellington
Historic downtown Wellington is a thriving corridor of businesses on Washington Avenue.

Railroads made it a bustling town in 1879, and you still hear the occasional train horn blow. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad passes through town, and the Union Pacific Railroad’s main lines run north-south. Another industry, aircraft parts manufacturing, also helped the town’s economy.

Fast forward to today, Wellington draws people to town for festivals, including the annual Kansas Wheat Festival.

water tower
Wellington is a community with a vibrant downtown setting along Washington Avenue. Its newly adopted official flag hangs from light poles along its main thoroughfare.

COFFEE & BREAKFAST

No. 7 Coffee House

No. 7 Coffee House in Wellington is your first stop when in town. A women-owned and operated business open Tuesday-Saturday, the coffee shop is known for its phenomenal baked goods and crafted coffee drinks.

With coffee beans sourced from Topeka’s PT Coffee, the baristas stay busy preparing traditional and specialty coffee drinks, and seasonal drink options like Bees Knees Chai keep it fun. Non-coffee drinkers will gravitate to their hot or iced tea menu.

latte and muffinNo. 7 Coffee House is a morning hangout where locals greet one another as they walk in and discuss the day’s events. They sip coffee with dining on maple pecan scones, muffins, and sausage quiche.

My hazelnut latté and Cinnamon Streusel with Cream Cheese muffin surpassed my expectations. The muffin (the size of a softball!) was scrumptious. It’s no wonder locals rave about the café’s scratch-made pastries.

coffee house menuDuring lunchtime, locals gravitate to the coffee shop to market fresh sandwiches, salads, and wraps. The day I visited, the owner made homemade bierocks in the kitchen. Each day, the chalkboard displays a new menu special. Locals told me the Chicken Salad on Croissant sandwich is a must-have menu item.

PRO TIP: Plan extra time to shop the quaint retail section of the coffee house.

pastries

EXPLORING TOWN

Downtown Murals

After breakfast, I walked a couple of blocks from No. 7 Coffee House to (214 S. Washington Ave.), where to my surprise, the artist was applying paint to sunflowers using soft brush strokes.

Local Ursula Goff explained that the concept of each of the mural’s panels evolved from organic conversations with locals and then brainstorming ideas using an Artificial Intelligence app. The sunflowers are a nod to the state’s official flower.Heritage Plaza Sculpture MuralGoff wants the mural’s vibrant colors to attract viewers who use it as an interactive backdrop to take selfies. I didn’t hesitate to take one with the sunflower’s petals in the background. The artist said she may not sign the mural because “it belongs to the town.”

Chisholm Trai MuralArtist Majorie Hall Bicker painted a scene depicting moments in Wellington’s history around the corner from BeeHive Quilt Shop on 7th Street. Dedicated to the city in 2000, visiting the mural should be part of everyone’s visit to town.

ghost signPRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for ghost signs that appear faded on downtown buildings. The 120-year-old Jacob Engle Dry Goods sign at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Street was recently restored for Wellington’s 150th anniversary.

Historic Architecture

So often, tourists visit a town and neglect to learn about its historical architecture. In Wellington, the downtown buildings are strikingly beautiful. Brick, limestone, and artistic wood details make the details of the historic buildings awe-inspiring. A drive along Washington Avenue reveals a glimpse into the past.

Downtown buildingAnother can’t-miss architectural wonder, The Pink House (114 S. Jefferson), is a sight for the eyes. Unlike any other residence in Wellington, the home is not open to visitors, but people often take photos with it in the background.

The home, situated between two churches, took five years to build. The Smith family was inspired by homes they saw during a trip to California. The interior’s handmade tiles and moldings are Spanish Revival style.

pink house
The Smith, Edwin House, aka The Pink House, features a Spanish Eclectic style using stucco, wrought iron, and a red tile roof.

PRO TIP: Look up while walking along Washington Avenue. The downtown buildings’ architectural details reveal the Gothic Revival style (1840-1880). Can you spot the decorative window frames and gables?

Woods Park/Donut Bay

Woods Park/Donut Bay (1110 E 4th St.) is a massive public park on the south end of town that sits near a picturesque 18-hole golf course. My leisurely visit was made better by the entertaining ducks and geese gathered near the water.

waterfallgeese and ducksThe park features picnic areas, playground equipment for the kiddos, a sand volleyball pit, and fishing areas. The well-maintained disc golf course includes concrete pads and wide fairways for beginner to moderately difficult play.

A public art piece in the park resembles a dog in mid-run.

PRO TIP: If you’re searching for a place to enjoy the water on a good weather day, Wellington Lake is a six-mile drive west of town on U.S. 160. You can fish, boat, and camp (permits required).

Worden Park

A short drive outside of town, Worden Park (800 W. Hillside) consists of 61 acres of mostly athletic fields, but the paved track and an ADA-accessible playground area invite visitors to explore the area.

Feel free to bring your dog if you walk them on a leash. Doggy bag stations are positioned around the park.

PRO TIP: Wear comfortable shoes to walk the trails around the ball fields, and bring bottled water. You might catch a softball team practicing like I did if you’re lucky.

playground

Memorial Auditorium & Bronze Field Guns

The home of concerts and local events, Memorial Auditorium (208 N. Washington Ave.) is an architectural wonder in its own right. In 1918, Wellington attorney Ed Hackney spearheaded its building to serve as a memorial for local and county soldiers.

Completed a few years later, Memorial Hall became an attractive downtown building, which included stained glass windows and wrought iron staircase railings.

Country concert performances on the main stage attract fans to the auditorium. Logan Mize and Tracy Byrd each entertained crowds.

stained glass windowsOutside, the historical tour continues with the Bronze Field Guns exhibit. The cannons were delivered upon the request of the Grand Army of the Republic James Post of Wellington in 1909. Delivered in 1915, they serve as a memorial.cannonst-shirtsPRO TIP: Visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce to purchase branded merchandise, including ground coffee, t-shirts, holiday ornaments, and more.

LUNCH STOP

The Dore

At mid-day, one restaurant in town is always hopping. The Dore (114 N. Washington Ave.) is a family-owned bar and grill known for hamburgers. For the last 12 years, customers have come to count on the menu’s selection of comfort classics and daily specials.

After finding an open seat at the bar, I ordered a cheeseburger and sweet potato fries. I was surprised at how quickly my food arrived, considering that people continued filling up tables inside and on the back patio during lunch.

Regular customers watched horse racing and golf on TV while families tended to younger patrons and dined on sandwiches. If you go, Lauren and Amber will take good care of you.

PRO TIP: It’s a busy place at lunchtime. Arrive when the restaurant opens to score a table for two or more people

cheeseburger

MUST-SEE MUSEUMS

In my experience, tourists don’t always have access to multiple museums in a town the size of Wellington. Each one includes unexpected treasures a no cost to the public – donations are gladly accepted. Don’t forget to sign each one’s guest book.

National Depression Glass Museum

Let the fun continue at National Depression Glass Museum (107 N. Washington Ave.), where the collection will wow you. Even if you’re not someone who collects glassware, it is worth checking out, as the enormity of the delicate pieces in various colors and shapes is breathtaking.

The museum houses nearly every pattern of Depression Glass, and 90 percent of the over 20,000-piece collection is donated. Many of the cases showcase the family name that donated the glass.

depression glass museum
Remember the glassware your grandmother or a family member collected? A tour of the museum is a walk down memory lane.

The only museum in the nation that accepts all American glass companies, each case is organized by pattern. During my guided tour, we wandered from case to case admiring the handiwork of glassblowers and creators. I was mesmerized by the designs and especially impressed with the glow-in-the-dark collection. Brightly colored bowls, muted colored vases, translucent plates, glass utensils – the list goes on.

glasses
The glass museum’s inventory features glassware from kitchen glass to ornamental pieces.glow in the dark glassAs you can imagine, the museum is gifted thousands of pieces of glassware, including duplicates of the already displayed items. Check the gift shop. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the reasonably priced duplicates for sale. Items are marked down 20% during the Christmas Sale.

PRO TIP: Ask the employees if you can watch them open a box of donated glass items – it’s like opening a gift! If you’re a collector, ask to use the free resource library to conduct research.

Chisholm Trail Museum

Giddy up! Chisholm Trail Museum (502 N. Washington Ave.) is a sought-after attraction in Wellington for its historical content. The town was a central stop on the cattlemen’s trail from Texas to Kansas starting in 1867. According to kshs.org, 2,000-3,000 head of cattle would depart from Texas during the spring en route to Abilene’s stockyards.

longhornInterestingly enough, the building itself is a historical treasure. Once known as Hatcher Hospital, Dr. A. R. Hatcher and his staff treated patients using state-of-the-art equipment in pristine conditions. The building was gifted to the Chisholm Trail Museum in 1965.

The museum honors Wellington’s history while showcasing artifacts from every decade since its establishment, and each room is designed with a theme in mind.

Wellington artifacts
The museum also houses innumerable Wellington-specific artifacts.

The 1875 Pioneer room contains home goods and tools. The railroad road displays a wall of framed black and white photographs and train memorabilia. Other rooms display antique cameras, old-fashioned dresses, and farm tools, while others are designed to replicate the room of a home during earlier times.

Donated pieces of a more quirky nature are also on exhibit. Sumner County’s original high school mascot, an alligator, is encased in glass.

saddleperiod dressesOf course, I was fascinated by the room designed to resemble a vintage soda fountain complete with a vinyl booth, ice cream dishes, and the “Let’s Sell Ice Cream” book once used at the Chief Drug Soda Fountain until 1986.

No matter your personality, you’re bound to stumble upon a curated item that speaks to you at the museum. Locals will appreciate the high school artifacts.

PRO TIP: If you’re interested in touring with a group or outside business hours, contact the museum directly or complete a tour request form.

museum exhibit

Panhandle Railroad Museum

Railroad lines passing through Wellington increased the town’s population over the years. Panhandle Railroad Museum (425 E. Harvey Ave.), located in a  historic 1881 gas manufacturing building at Sellers Park, is a hidden gem for train enthusiasts and curious travelers. After Perry Wiley retired as a train conductor, he started collecting railroad memorabilia in 1990.

railroad museum
The Panhandle Railroad Museum occupies the original Park House Gallery, listed on the Kansas Register of Historic Places in 1991. It was built for the town’s power and light company and became a recreation center.

Perry and his wife Sherry renovated the building and filled it with the family’s collection, mostly BNSF items. Logo merchandise, uniforms, clocks, depot accessories, photographs, telegraph machines, passenger car dinnerware – you name it, the museum has it.railroad depot benchAt age 85, Perry enthusiastically gives guided tours of the museum, pointing out items he curated or gifted to him, like the two-sided depot bench and original Santa Fe merchandise featuring the company mascot, Chico. A clock wall displays timepieces that were inspected for the correct time to ensure trains arrived on schedule.clocksAside from the impressive collection, it’s possible that Perry’s love of all things railroad will rub off on you. Not only did I learn about railroad employees’ work, but I also had a better appreciation for the industry that helped develop so many Kansas towns, including Wellington.

PRO TIP: All aboard! Take a photo with the 1903 AT&SF steam locomotive on display across the lawn from the museum at Sellers Park.

locomotive

SHOPPING

Nothing excites me more than discovering a locally-owned business where I can shop to my heart’s content. On Washington Avenue, several quaint businesses deserve your business. Historical downtown Wellington provides one-stop shopping, from women’s apparel to toys and home decor.

Beehive Quilt Shop & Bee Creative Toys

Two stores in one, Beehive Quilt Shop & Bee Creative Toys (122 N. Washington Ave.), share the same space. People travel from far away to check out the quilt shop that stocks over 100 books, dozens of kits, hundreds of notions, and over 1,000 patterns. The store frequently hosts instructional sessions for quilters of all experience levels.

Having visited several quilt shops across Kansas, I was impressed by the staffers’ knowledge of on-trend designs and how to teach others the techniques for every kind of quilt.

quiltsAt Bee Creative Toys, shelves, and turnable displays are stocked with every kind of game, interactive play set, and plush toy you can imagine. Toys designed for newborns to adults are available. They carry an extensive collection of brand names, including Lego, Fred & Friends, and Melissa & Doug.

The staff is great about finding a toy or game that matches a child’s skill set and curiosity.

PRO TIP: Follow the store on Facebook to stay up to date about upcoming events and toy arrivals. board games

Bay & Brielle Co.

Bay & Brielle Co. (207 S. Washington Ave.) is the women’s apparel boutique you wished you’d discovered sooner. The inventory consists of hand-selected classic pieces as well as current looks.

It’s the kind of boutique you’re guaranteed to leave with a blouse for an upcoming event or a dress to wear on a special occasion. The store is special because it includes clothes from size small to 3x, and the inventory is regularly restocked.

dressesBesides beautiful apparel, Bay & Brielle Co.’s accessories are on par with the latest trends. A collection of seasonal shoes, hats, and colorful handbags make completing an outfit a cinch.

PRO TIP: The shop also sells non-apparel items, from jewelry to candles. Crocks Dinner Club meal starter packets are a popular purchase.

women's apparel

Salty Creek Decor

If you love to hunt down unique home decor pieces and antiques, visiting Salty Creek Decor (301 N. Washington Ave.) is a must. The multi-room store artfully displays decorating pieces such as custom chalk signs, pillows, candles, and metalwork.

home decor wallMost of the inventory caters to shoppers looking for a refined rustic or farmhouse deco style. A corner of the store even carries nursery decor and toys for parents or grandparents looking for something new. Shopping at Salty Creek Decor is an interior designer’s dream and is sure to inspire.

PRO TIP: The store sits on the same property as a glass company, Vince Erwin Glass, so ask about residential glass projects if it suits your needs.

home decor

DINNER STOP

Fabiola’s

The food is fabulous at Fabiola’s (302 N. Washington Ave.). If you’re craving authentic Mexican food, it delivers. Since 1997, the family-owned restaurant has attracted regular customers. By consistently serving good food and providing friendly service, it’s easy to see why.

quesoI tried something out of my comfort zone and sampled the highly recommended fresh pork rinds with pepper jack cheese and spinach queso, which I devoured. The rinds arrived at the table, crackling fresh from the fryer.

For dinner, I chose a beef fajita bowl, Kristi’s Special, made with grilled onions, peppers, beans, queso, and adorned with a tomato rose. The meat was tender, and the outer shell was crisp.

fajita saladMy server recommended that I save room for dessert, and even though I was full, I couldn’t turn down caramel churros with vanilla ice cream drizzled with honey and chocolate. 100% delicious.

When you visit Fabiolas’s, you can expect attentive service from locals who know most regular customers. At the time of my visit, the owner reminded customers that the restaurant was stocked with to-go enchiladas for sale near the register because the restaurant was closing for a week so staff could attend her wedding. People can’t resist the food.

PRO TIP: Visit on Thursdays for 1/2 price margaritas, and ask about daily food specials.

churros

OTHER THINGS TO SEE & DO

If you plan to extend your visit to Wellington, I recommend visiting a few more gems while in town.

Wellington Regent Theatre

Nothing compares to watching a movie, like seeing it on the big screen with popcorn in hand. At Wellington Regent Theater (114 W. Lincoln Ave.), movie fans can view first-run films. You can count on screening times on Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm and 7 pm or Monday at 7 pm.

Follow the theatre’s Facebook page to view the latest movie release and confirm show times.

Wellington Regent Theatre

Carnegie Library

Did you know that steel industry tycoon Andrew Carnegie founded 2,059 public libraries and gave over $40 million to fund 1,679 libraries in America? From 1886 to 1919, libraries like Wellington’s Carnegie Library (121 W. 7th St.) opened to the public to provide access to books. One of 63 Carnegie libraries in Kansas, the Neo-Classical building is listed on the National Register of History Places.

Not all Carnegie libraries still serve as such, so a visit to the Wellington Public Library is worth a visit to admire its grand design and outdoor bronze sculptures.

library
Wellington’s Carnegie Library was built in 1916 and remains a working library.

Columbian Mammoth

I also like to locate interesting, obscure places or landmarks when traveling. You know, the kind that ignites your curiosity that you want to pull the car over to see. Inside the Sumner County District Courthouse (501 N. Washington Ave.), an archeological find unearthed a few miles from town sat inside glass on display to admire – a Columbian Mammoth’s skull.

The extinct Ice Age elephant’s skull was found by Tim Kelly in 1992, and records prove that the first farmers in the county found similar bones dating back to the 1870s.

fossil bonesWellington is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring some of the top attractions in south-central Kansas. A short drive from Wichita, I was delighted to meet residents who made me feel welcome, and there were unlimited places to explore. I know you’ll fall in love with it, too.

Like me, mark your calendar for the annual Kansas Wheat Festival, which celebrates the Wheat Capital of the World in mid-July. What started over 100 years ago as a parade has become a four-day extravaganza with food trucks, a carnival, live entertainment, contests, and more.

Wellington Flag
The newly designed Wellington flag showcases wheat to honor the town’s agricultural roots.

Bonus: If you love a road trip within driving distance of Wichita, I encourage you to check out Fun Day Trips from Wichita, a quick guide to the region’s top town. Each town offers something unique just like Wellington.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: bar and grill, boutique, Chisholm Trail, churros, coffee house, courthouse, Cowley College, depressio glass, Donut Bay, Fabiola's, glassware, hamburger, home decor, Kansas, Kansas Wheat Festival, mammoth, mural, National Glass Museum, quilt shop, railroad, Regent Theatre, Sante Fe Railroad, South Central Kansas, stained glass, Sumner County, sunflowers, tacos, The Dore, toy shop, trains, Wellington, wheat, Woods Park

Unforgettable Experiences in Fort Scott, Kansas

April 19, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Kansas Tourism sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Fort Scott, Kansas, is a special place promising unforgettable experiences. Established in 1855, it’s maintained its historic charm while adding remarkable museums, dining, and unique shopping to a list of visit-worthy attractions.

A 1.5-hour drive south of Kansas City or 2.5 hours east of Wichita, the southeast Kansas town makes for a delightful experience.

Fort Scott, Kansas mural
Fort Scott is named after General Winfield Scott, a commander during the War of 1812 and the Mexican-American War.

Accommodations

The Courtland Hotel & Spa

Nestled in Fort Scott’s historic downtown district sits The Courtland Hotel & Spa (121 E. 1st St.), a period-style building dating back to 1906. The hotel’s historic ambiance is clear from the moment you walk inside the oversized glass door to the creaky wood floors.

The Courtland Hotel & Spa
Historic charm combined with modern amenities provided a comfortable stay. The King 1 room was secluded down a hallway away from the rest of the rooms.

A building that temporarily housed railroad workers during the early 1900s, the hotel features fully furnished rooms and spacious bathrooms on its second floor. Not only did my room (King Room 1) include double closets and soft bedding, but I was able to work using its high-speed Wi-Fi and stream movies. A grab-and-go breakfast near the coffee station made the stay extra comfortable.

PRO TIP:  To book a tranquil spa service, call 620-223-5676 or reserve a service online before your arrival. And if you’re interested in bike rental, ask about the yellow bikes in front of the hotel.

The Courtland Hotel and Spa in Fort Scott, Kansas
Free on-street parking is available on two sides of the building. Look for the quaint alleyway patio with string lights to enjoy a secluded moment to yourself.

Outdoor Adventures

Gunn Park

When visiting Fort Scott, you must explore beautiful Gunn Park (1010 Park Ave.). The 155-acre landscape seems to go as far as the eye can see. Families appreciate its playground areas while anglers fish from the banks for scene Fern Lake.

Do you prefer to adventure via mountain bike? Gunn Park Trails wind through wooded scenery along the Marmaton River. It’s the site of the Marmaton Massacre Mountain Bike Race & Festival in September.

Fern Lake at Gunn Park Fort Scott, Kansas
Can you see the limestone shelter across Fern Lake?

For a novice disc golfer, I thought the 18-hole course was approachable. Despite the trees, each hole was pretty spacious, and golfers play from concrete tee boxes.

PRO TIP: The park includes 14 camp sites with electric and water hookups if you travel by RV. The cost is $20/night.

Disc golf basket Fort Scott, Kansas
Originally a 9-hole course, Gunn Park’s disc course was expanded to 18 holes.

Take a Tour

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Most travelers visit the area to tour Fort Scott National Historic Site (199 Old Fort Blvd.), established in 1842. Fort Scott played an important role in Bleeding Kansas, The Civil War, and westward railroad expansion.

It served as a military outpost on the Indian frontier to keep settlers in Missouri out of the territory and vice-versa. And to contain westward expansion, infantry patrolled the Oregon and Santa Fe trails to ensure safe travel.

cannon at Fort Scott
Fort Scott Civil War Encampment is an event hosted in April annually featuring reenactors, artillery demonstrations, and authentic 1840s fort experiences. The fort hosts patriotic events on July 4th, Labor Day, and Veteran’s Day weekend.

The fort lies near the Kansas/Missouri border, an area for Civil War combat. It served as a supply depot, hospital, and top-ranking generals and their families live on-site in special barracks.

Fort Scott military housing
What do you notice about the furnishings in this military family’s living room?

Today, the historic buildings are open for self-guided tours every day from sunrise to sunset, or you can join a guided tour from the Visitor Center at 10 am and 1 pm daily. I chose the self-guided option and listened to my phone’s free National Park Service app . I was pleased with the narrator’s thorough description of each building and its use.

Selfie at Fort Scott National Historic Site
Part of the United States National Park Service, Fort Scott National Historic Site welcomes over 26,000 visitors each year.

PRO TIP: Start at the Visitor’s Center to view a map of the grounds and ask any questions of the park ranger. Its retail area contains books and gifts for all ages.

Fort Scott hospital
Imagine a dozen soldiers suffering from Civil War injuries in this hospital room. The practice of medicine was primitive, and most soldiers suffered from pneumonia, infections, dysentery, fever, and more.

U.S. Cemetery No. 1

My historic tour of the area took me to Fort Scott National Cemetery (900 E. National Ave.). The resting place for all armed forces members, it pays tribute to the soldiers who severed honorable for the country. Established in 1862 by President Abraham Lincoln and the US Congress, it is one of 14 cemeteries in the nation and three in the state.

Fort Scott National Cemetery
In 1999, Fort Scott National Cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Open from dawn to dusk, visitors can enter the cemetery on two sides via grand entrances and park along the paved roads before exiting to walk the grounds consisting of 10.5 acres.

Foreman Lopez greeted me at the office and patiently explained the cemetery’s significance and notable gravestones. A poet, Eugene Fitch Ware, who wrote “Jonquil” and “John Brown,” is interred in Grave 1. Sixteen Indian soldiers who were Army scouts and 88 African American soldiers from the Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry are buried in Section 5.

PRO TIP: In search of a particular grave site? Use the video touchscreen at the Visitor’s Center to search the database and print a map.

Fort Scott National Cemetery
These tombstones honor some of the oldest gravesites at the cemetery. The earliest recorded death was Captain Alexander Morrow on July 1, 1851.

Gordon Parks Museum

Gordon Parks, originally from Fort Scott, was a world-renowned photojournalist and filmmaker whose work impacted many people’s lives. His images captured the Civil Rights movement, celebrities in candid moments, and the struggle of impoverished people.

Voted Kansan of the Year in 1986, he also published an autobiographical novel, The Learning Tree, about Fort Scott. He directed multiple films, wrote musical compositions, and authored several books.

The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes' outdoor exhibit
Gordon Parks is also recognized at The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes’ outdoor exhibit space and walking trail.

Located on the Fort Scott Community College campus, The Gordon Parks Museum (2108 S. Horton St.) displays some of his photography collection, piano, movie memorabilia, and personal effects. The museum’s annual Choice of Weapons ceremony, held at the museum, honors a person in uses their art to make a profound difference in the lives of others.

The Gordon Parks Museum in Fort Scott, KansasA major fan of his work and one-time photography teacher, I was disappointed to learn that the museum was closed on Good Friday during my visit to town. So, I made a point of finding his gravesite at the Evergreen Cemetery. The black granite tombstone has text on both sides, including a poem, Homecoming, which details how he felt while living in Fort Scott and his hope for the future.

PRO TIP: Plan your visit by checking the museum’s hours, which operate when the college is open.

Gordon Parks Tombstone in Fort Scott, Kansas

The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes

Do you have what it takes to step up and help others in need? At Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes (1 S. Main), museumgoers learn about individuals whose bravery propelled them to do the right thing despite the odds. The stories of true heroes amongst us moved me.

The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott
Museum displays were created thanks to student research, including the Little Rock Nine story.

Each display features a student-driven project that focuses on someone of extraordinary character. They are the stories of everyday people who made incredible sacrifices, like Polish-born Irena Sendler, who spearheaded a group of people to offer food and shelter to Jewish people. She helped rescue 2,500 Jewish children during the Nazi occupation during World War II.

PRO TIP: Give yourself an hour to tour the museum. Many displays include a video component.

The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes
Use the video station at each display to take a deeper dive into the history of each hero’s journey.

Dolly The Trolley

If you’re short on time and want to make the most of your visit to Fort Scott, a 50-minute narrated tour on Dolly The Trolley is the answer. Parked at the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center (231 E. Wall St.), the trolley runs from the first weekend of March to the first weekend of December. View ticket prices and trolley hours here.

PRO TIP: Stop in the Fort Scott Visitor’s Center to stock up on travel brochures and sign the guest book.

trolley
The trolley can be rented for private parties for $125 per hour.

Downtown Shopping

Historic brick streets. Boutique shops in every building. Interesting antiques are around every corner. Shoppers on the lookout for a gem of a find will love strolling through the stores in downtown Fort Scott.

Historic Downtown Fort Scott
Visitors could easily devote at least an hour perusing the historic downtown boutique and antique shops.

Each shop has a visual personality, and most stores carry an eclectic mix of goods, from repurposed furniture and ladies’ apparel to on-trend home decor and vintage items.

Downtown Fort Hays, Kansas
During the 1950s, the town was considered the “city of brick streets” because it had more brick streets per capita than any other city in the country.

During your visit, stop inside The Iron Star (3 N. Main St.), Main Street Vintage & Co. (23 S. Main St.), Sunshine Boutique (18 E. Wall St.), Angie Dawn’s Boutique (108 Scott Ave.), and Treasure Hunt Flea Market (6 S. Main St.) to purchase something special for you or a loved one. This list scratches the surface. I look forward to returning to Fort Hays when I have more time to shop.

Main Street Gallery & Gifts
While many shops in downtown Fort Scott specialize in curated antiques, some boutiques carry clothes, jewelry, soaps, and candles.

During my shopping experience, I appreciated Hedgehog Ink‘s(16 S. Main St.) new, gently used book inventory. As you walk in, ask the employee about the monthly sales special. The books are well-organized and categorized by type and genre.

Book store
Hedgehog Ink sells gently used and select new books, and lounge areas in the back of the store provide a place to sit and relax while reading.

PRO TIP: You should park the car in the heart of the downtown shopping district and walk to the stores. Take a moment to look for Downtown Walking Tour signs that provide historical context to the area.

walking tour sign
Scan the QR code with your mobile phone’s camera to access more information at each walking tour sign.

Sip & Savor

Common Ground Coffee Co.

Bustling with activity, Common Ground Coffee Co. (12 E. Wall St.) is the place to gather at a large table with friends or sit solo to catch up on work. During my visit, community college students intently studied behind laptops while sipping from coffee cups.

Common Grounds Coffee Co.
In a hurry? Use Common Grouns Coffee Co.’s drive-thru option located in an alleyway between buildings.

You’re guaranteed to be greeted by a friendly face behind the counter. Not always sure what I want to order, the employee was patient while I asked questions about the breakfast menu options ranging from muffins to fresh-made sandwiches.

PRO TIP: A downtown hangout for locals, the coffee shop hosts live music played by singers and songwriters occasionally. Check the café’s event schedule.

Common Grounds Coffee Co. in Fort Scott
Dirty Chai Latté and Croissant Breakfast Sandwich with Bacon

Sharky’s Pub & Grub

What do you get when you mix an Irish bar with an island theme inside a building dating back to 1888? Sharky’s Pub & Grub (16 N. National Ave.) is a favorite restaurant with locals. Every wall space has sports bar memorabilia, funny bumper stickers, and tin signs. Guinness flags drop overhead, and an Irish flag outside the building keeps with the theme.

With 20 beers on tap and an extensive menu, you’re bound to order something that curbs your cravings. They serve “good food and honest drink,” making it a go-to place to grab lunch or dinner. The Asian Chicken Salad was a heaping portion considering it was the “lunch size,” and it paired well with a Lagunitas IPA cold draft.

PRO TIP: Seat yourself wherever you would prefer to sit. If dining alone, pony up to the bar for quick service.

Asian Chicken Salad at Sharky's Pub & Grub in Fort Scott, Kansas
Patrons can substitute grilled chicken for fried chicken in the Asian Chicken Salad at Sharky’s Pub & Grub.

Crooner’s Lounge

Ooh la la! There is no better place to enjoy a high-end dinner in Fort Scott than Crooner’s Lounge (117 S. Main). Surprisingly, the restaurant offered incredibly affordable Happy Hour specials, a short list of martinis, cocktails, wine selections, and small plate bites. My crab cakes arrived with an outer crust and soft center.

Dirty Martini at Crooner's Lounge in Fort Scott, Kansas
A Dirty Martini made with premium Grey Goose Vodka was a Happy Hour option. The entire bill, including food, was less than $50 with a tip.

The lasagna (recommended to me by a couple of locals) was scrumptious for dinner. A large portion that two people could easily share came with a house salad and bread. Although I was stuffed, I craved something sweet. My server asked the kitchen to prepare cinnamon ice cream with a caramel drizzle minus the cake for my after-dinner treat. I ate every bite.

PRO TIP: Make a reservation in advance of your arrival at Fort Scott. I also recommend you view the restaurant’s Facebook page to ensure it’s not closed for a private party. When you go, ask about the specials before ordering your meal.

House Salad at Crooner's Lounge in Fort Scott, Kansas
The House Salad is served with parmesan and dark basil balsamic or ranch dressing.
Homemade lasagna at Crooner's Lounge in Fort Scott, Kansas
Made with ground beef and sausage, the homemade lasagna was a heaping portion that required a to-go box.

Other Places or Events Worth Checking Out

Would you like to take to the links? Play 18 holes at the highly-rated Woodland Hills Golf Course (2414 Horton St.). If you have time to explore agritourism locations, check out The Lavender Patch Farm, 1553 Plants & Produce, or Fort Scott’s Farmers’ Market. Don’t miss Museum of Creativity, see a show at Liberty Theatre or Danny and Willis Ellis Family Fine Arts Center.

To learn more about Fort Scott, view Kansas Tourism’s directory page. And when visiting Fort Scott, be sure to also plan for an overnight stay in Humboldt, a 48-mile drive west of town.

Fort Scott, Kansas
Downtown Fort Scott is a hub of restaurants and shops and sits directly across the street from Fort Scott National Historic Site, making it a walkable district.

What did I leave off the list? What unforgettable place would you recommend I visit in Fort Scott during a return visit? Leave your comments below!

If you’re traveling through Southeast Kansas, consider viewing my travel recommendations for Humboldt, Coffeyville, and Pittsburg.

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: antiques, Bleeding Kansas, bricks, cemetery, Civil War, disc golf, fort, Fort Scott, golf course, Gordon Parks, heroes, historic site, history, military, Missouri border, murals, museum, National Historic Site, Native American, park, patriotic, photography, railroad, Southeast Kansas, sports bar, trolley, walking tour

7 Ways To Explore Culture in Kansas City, Kansas

November 17, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Visit Kansas City Kansas sponsored this post in partnership with Midwest Travel Network. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Kansas City, Kansas, offers visitors abundant cultural experiences because of its diverse community. Immigrants journeyed to the heart of America, looking for a future for themselves and their families. The city’s cultural traditions and food scene are rich with heritage. Plan an overnight stay to take advantage of authentic experiences, from following The Legacy Trail to feasting on flavorful food.

I visited the city with a group of travel writers to the area to experience the city’s culture first-hand. How many of the following experiences will you check off the list?

mural

1. VOLER – THIEVES OF FLIGHT

If you’ve witnessed aerial acrobatics and wondered if you were capable of such feats, Voler – Thieves of Flight (558 Lowell Ave.) is your chance to find out. As part of the Eastern European Journey, the academy teaches students a combination of aerial dance and acrobatics using ceiling-suspended silks. Located in a one-time Russian Orthodox Church, instructors guide students step-by-step through maneuvers to lift themselves into the air.

voler instructor
The facility was once a Greek Orthodox women’s church with a speakeasy in the basement that served vodka.
voler
Members of our group listen to the instructor walk them through the steps of aerial acrobatics. “The weight of your leg will carry you over if you let it.”

Although I had to sit out during the class, I watched as my travel friends warmed up by stretching and conducting breathing exercises. Soon, they were standing with colorful silk fabric in hand, learning the basics of foot locks and climbing. It was a major test of strength and flexibility.

Do you think you’ve got what it takes to test your balance and core strength? Voler – Thieves of Flight Voler offers private group classes and ongoing classes every week. To sign up for an Aerial Silks session, click here.

2. VIETNAM CAFÉ

Vietnam Café (39324 Rainbow Blvd) is the story of success. The new location opened its doors on May 2022 to serve loyal customers heaping bowls of pho, curry, and rice platters. I ordered a large bowl of piping hot pho with beef without hesitation. It arrived with a side plate of Thai basil and sprouts to add to the pho at my discretion.

pho
Pho is a broth-based soup with noodles, protein, and vegetables.

Our table’s conversation was lively between bites of shared appetizers and dinner entreés. I learned that Vietnamese families represent a large portion of the community, having immigrated to the area at the end of the Vietnam War. Further study taught me that Vietnamese refugees to the American Great Plains sought manufacturing or other jobs in Kansas City.

I encourage you to dine at Vietnam Café to try a food you’ve never tried while learning more about the culture. View the restaurant’s Facebook page for details.

3. Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop

I can’t think of a better way to start a day of exploring Kansas City, Kansas, than dining at a locally-owned coffee shop. Oh, wait! Yes, I can. Add authentic tamales, and it’s way better. Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop (925 Southwest Blvd) is a quaint eatery specializing in homemade meat and vegan tamales paired with gourmet coffee drinks.

three bees pottery and coffee shopIf you’ve not enjoyed tamale, you can expect shredded chicken, pork, or beef in sauce wrapped in masa inside a corn husk. The dish represents traditional food brought to the states by Mexican immigrant populations. Masa is a soft dough made from ground corn with a slightly sweet yet savory flavor.

tamales
The new owners of Three Bees Pottery and Coffee Shop celebrated the business’s one-year anniversary in September 2022.

potteryI ordered a Dirty Horchata served hot to accompany my meal. A cinnamon vanilla rice drink with a double espresso was served in a vibrant handmade coffee cup. The cafe’s interior is visually stunning as it is filled with colorful pottery from Mexico. All of it is marked for sale, so keep your eyes peeled for a gem to take home with you.

View the coffee shop’s hours and menu via its Facebook page.

4. The Legacy Trail

Visit Kansas City created The Legacy Trail, a mapped-out journey used for self-guided audio tours throughout the city. At each location, users of the app tap the screen to play back narrated stories that explain the site’s cultural significance. Latino, Eastern European, Black Heritage, Indigenous People, and Modern Immigrants are referenced on the trail.

Kansas City’s agricultural roots are recognized by statues in the city’s West Bottoms neighborhood. Stockyards Brewing Co. is a sought-after steakhouse and taproom in the area.

To access The Legacy Trail, visit this website. Complete all five journeys, and you can win a KCK t-shirt, and your name will be included on the KCK Legacy Trail Wall of Fame.

Our group visited the Central Avenue Betterment Association (CABA) (1303 Central Ave.) Anthology of Argentine Mural and Eagles Nest. At CABA, we learned how a small staff works diligently with the help of community sponsors to support diverse and inclusive programs and events like the Day of the Dead Celebration. On the day of our visit, staff member and volunteers hurriedly prepared for the Dia De Los Muertos parade. A makeup artist was on-hand to apply face paint to Catrinas, who planned to walk in the parade. day of the dead makeup artistWhen our bus stopped at the Anthology of Argentine Mural (30th & Woodland), my jaw dropped in shock. The massive mural is a city block long and uses vivid imagery to tell the tale of the Argentine neighborhood and its history. The narrative story sets the scene with natural sounds like railroad trains, industrialization, and rainfall. Its imagery will give you pause and, like me, may evoke an emotional response.

mural
The mural was painted by seven artists over three months.

muralWe drove to a historic two-story stone building near railroad tracks and a baseball field, which has served as the headquarters for American Legion Post 213 “Eagles Nest” since the 1940s.stone buildingThe nondescript building was constructed because the community needed a place where Latinos could gather without discrimination. In the early 1900s, it served as a Methodist mission and school. Years later, the outside of the building contrasts greatly with the interior’s design which features a sports bar where locals gather to enjoy game day.

5. Jarocho’s Pescados y Mariscos

Continue the cultural journey to a cozy spot where high-quality Mexican seafood is served, Jarocho’s (719 Kansas Ave.). You can’t miss the building’s brightly painted facade featuring murals with ocean scenes.

seafood dinner
Jarocho’s is known for serving Pacific-style Mexican seafood.

JarochoIt’s a hidden gem, or the kind of restaurant locals know and dare not tell others about, because their go-to places become crowded. Bring your appetite and prepare to be wowed by fresh seafood dishes like Shrimp Chipotle, Fire Grilled Trout, and Seafood Paella. They didn’t win Best Seafood and Best Mexican Food by Feast magazine for nothing.restaurant decor

6. Day of the Dead Celebration

Dia De Los Muertos, translated to Day of the Dead, is a time of celebration for the Latino community in Kansas City, Kansas. The day remembers friends and family members who have died and the life they lived. The Mexican holiday dates back hundreds of years.

catrinas groupIt’s one of the most festive celebrations I’ve attended. Vendors line both sides of Central Avenue, offering the best gifts and authentic Mexican food dinners. The smell of freshly grilled meat lingers in the air.Walking the route, you encounter live bands performing Latin pop and regional Mexican music in front of small groups of onlookers. Women dressed as Catrinas wear makeup resembling skeletons ad flowing gowns with hats or elaborate headdresses.catrinasI was asked if I wanted to ride in the parade inside a decorated bus with authentic music (see pictured). “Yes, of course!” We threw candy to eager children from the bus and waved at families. Dancers led our path down the street. Everyone was in good spirits laughing, eating authentic food, dancing, and singing. The festival is one you don’t want to miss.bus

7. URBAN HIKE THROUGH STRAWBERRY HILL & DOWNTOWN KCK

The following morning, our group enjoyed coffee and pastries at Splitlog Coffee Co. (548 Central Ave.) before meeting our Urban Hikes KC tour guide. The plan? To walk a 4.5-mile hike through the city’s Eastern European neighborhood along the Legacy Trail and learn about the immigrants who founded businesses and churches in the area.

Strawberry Hill Mural
This mural features Strawberry Hill’s founder, Mathias Splitlog, a Wyandotte Indian who arrived in 1843. He was an entrepreneur who established the first flour mill. Fun Fact: He spoke seven languages.

The guided tour is the best way to explore the city’s history while learning in-depth historical facts about each destination. While the route may be long, the pace is moderate, and there are only a few steep streets – and it offers some of the best views of the Kansas City skyline.

An Urban Hikes KC tour guide discussed
JT Daniels, a local artist, painted the mural on the side of The Merc. During the urban tour, the guide addressed the difference between a “food desert” and a “food swamp.”

From Russian Hill to Strawberry Hill and downtown Kansas City to the Wyandotte Native American National Burial Ground, the guide highlights the stories of ethnic groups. It is the most effective way to learn about the city’s culture.

Why is the neighborhood called Strawberry Hill? After the great flood of 1903, residents discovered strawberries growing on the hill. The fruit is also considered sacred to the Wyandotte tribe people.

Several churches were erected during the time of European immigration to the area. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, built in 1890, is the oldest Catholic parish in Kansas City. At present day, it is a parish that is known for its cultural diversity. A community-driven garden sits in its shadow, where fruits and vegetables are grown and donated to residents.

community garden
Actor Eric Stonestreet, originally from Kansas City, donated the windmill to the project. He is best known for his appearance on the TV show Modern Family.

I appreciate learning about the hard-working families who made the location what it is today, including the Loose Brothers, who opened the Takhoma Biscuit Company. The name was updated to Sunshine Biscuit Company in 1946 and was considered the largest bakery in the city. Keebler eventually bought it, and now it is owned by Kellogg’s.

Did you know that 85% of the world’s Cheez-It crackers are produced in Kansas City?

Time permitting, you should plan extra time to take a guided tour of Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center (720 N. 4th St.) where you can learn about the ethnic groups that settled in the area. Each room of the mansion built in 1887 tells the story of the city’s earliest residents. Note: You can buy tickets to the Olde World Christmas Tour during the holidays.

St. John’s Park, across from the museum, has a top-notch view of the city’s skyline. Bring your dog. A grassy area is dedicated to four-legged family members.

I do not doubt that you’ll appreciate Kansas City’s traditions and food scene as much as I did. To truly get to know a place, you must understand its history. Of course, these seven cultural experiences merely scratch the surface of Kansas City’s can’t-miss destinations. Endless learning awaits. Kansas City ViewTake a moment to downtown The Taco Trail app and The Legacy Trail app created by Visit Kansas City, Kansas before your visit. Let this guide and the mobile apps help you enjoy an immersive cultural tour of the city – an unforgettable experience.

If you appreciated this post, you might also want to check out a second blog post, “Essential Stops in Kansas City, Kansas,” that features more attractions, restaurants, and notable shopping destinations.

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: aerial dance, church, culture, Day of the Dead, downtown, European, hike, history, Kansas City, Latino, Legacy Trail, mexican, Midwest, mural, pho, pottery, railroad, seafood, stockyard, Strawberry Hill, Taco Trail, tacos, tamales, urban, Vietnamese, walking tour, Wyandotte

Winfield, Kansas: Day Trip Ideas for a Guaranteed Good Time

May 31, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Visit Winfield sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

The residents of Winfield have a good reason to be proud of their Kansas town. Now that I’ve experienced it first-hand, I’d say there are more than enough reasons to love the town.

Less than an hour from Wichita, Winfield is a fun day trip destination for families, couples, or solo travelers. I arrived early Saturday morning and the town was just coming alive.

Winfield KansasOutdoor enthusiasts love it for its recreational options. It sits on the edge of the Flint Hills and near waterways in Cowley County. Shoppers appreciate the downtown corridors for the town’s long list of boutiques and retail stores. I discovered noteworthy dining while spending the day in Winfield as well.

WALNUT VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

I could hear the bluegrass band playing as I approached the parking lot that was dotted with merchants under covered tents. It made perfect sense that bluegrass music set the backdrop for the opening day of Walnut Valley Farmers Market near Island Park. Winfield is home to the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival where people far and wide have arrived at the Flat-Picking Championships to hear the best musicians play every September. The market’s scene was set.

Walnut Valley Farmers MarketFarmers MarketDuring the opening day of the market, I purchased a baked lemon loaf and walked away with a jar of preserves. Other vendors sold seasonal produce, leather goods, jewelry, soaps, and gifts.

PRO TIP: Bring cash to the market. Not all vendors accept credit cards. Don’t try to park adjacent to the vendor booths, which are reserved for them. Parking is available across the street.

COLLEGE HILL COFFEE

I made the short drive to College Hill Coffee (403 Soward St.) in desperate need of caffeine with a side of breakfast.

The coffee shop is located in a residential neighborhood and draws locals for its relaxed vibe. People sit on patio tables on the front porch or at tables inside what is a converted old house. It feels homey and comforting like someone invited you over for breakfast.

College Hill CoffeeFrom the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.

I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) is for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.

When in Winfield, promise yourself you’ll stop at College Hill Coffee. You can order from a window on the porch (seating available!) or dine inside. They serve breakfast all day and menu choices range from waffles and avocado toast to breakfast sandwiches and baked goods. Stop in for a salad or cup of soup at lunchtime.

PRO TIP: Order a dessert to go. I recommend a soft snickerdoodle cookie.

ELAM’S LAVENDER AND HONEY BEE FARM

Do you love the smell of lavender?  You can pick your own $5 lavender bundle at Elam’s Lavender and Honey Bee Farm (5226 142nd Rd) which opened recently to the public. Simply borrow a pair of scissors, snip a bundle, and head to the retail store to make a purchase.

lavender fieldI learned from Rick about the numerous plant varieties and the growing habits of lavender as we walked the property. The farm has 28 varieties and he plans to add 15 more in due time. His family is dedicated to providing lavender to as many people who want it.

lavender They grow lavender from seedlings inside a greenhouse and eventually move it outside to be planted in rows. What started as something to do in Rick’s retirement has blossomed into a farm where the public can come out and experience it for themselves.

Why pick your own lavender? You can use it in your cooking, home decor, craft projects, and the oil can be used in soaps.

 I was excited to borrow a pair of scissors and sip stems. Afterward, I took my bundle to a farm employee at a cart who added a rubber band to it and directed me to the retail shop to pay $5 for the lavender. The process is easy and one you’ll appreciate.

When in Winfield, drive to 5226 142nd Rd, a short drive from downtown to the farm. Follow the lavender scent.

PRO TIP: Follow the farm’s Facebook page to learn about upcoming You Pick events.

THE FARM AT QUAIL VALLEY

The Farm at Quail Valley (934 194th Dr.) isn’t just an event center located outside of town used for weddings and large events. It’s also the site of the #1 disc golf course in Kansas that is also ranked #58 in the world. For disc golfers, it’s the holy grail of courses.

The Farm at Quail ValleyThe 18-hole course is casually referred to as The Beast because of its challenging design that includes many opportunities to potentially lose one’s discs in water hazards and challenging holes. Designed by disc golf world champion Eric McCabe, the course often hosts tournaments.

disc golf coursewedding venueShady tree-covered areas and tall grass surround fairways. The meticulous maintenance of the course makes it a beautiful setting. Each hole has two tee boxes made with turf pads. The basket placement ranges. Some baskets sit under trees near a water’s edge, others are hidden in cleared areas around trees, while others are located more in the open. For example, Hole 8’s basket is elevated atop a mound of sand and large tires.

disc golf basketDuring my tour, I learned that golfers could arrive during course hours and pay cash using the honors system inside a converted train railcar or pay online. Inside the rail car retail shop, you can also purchase new discs. The course was technical and challenging, especially as a new disc golfer. Be prepared to look for baskets that have been moved and don’t always match what UDisc app shows.

The farm invites campers to pitch a tent or pull up an RV for overnight accommodations for a small fee. If you feel like fishing in one of the small lakes, you can drop a line after registering to fish.

PRO TIP:  See a video overview of the course by clicking this link. Upon arrival at the farm, follow the gravel road until you reach a parking lot near the event center. Walk to the green railcar to pay to play the course.

SHINDIGS BAR & GRILL

It was time for lunch, and I was famished. I drove back to Shindigs Bar & Grill (500 Main St.) and found a seat at the bar. The friendly bartender welcomed me and told me about the day’s specials, which included a dollar off a pint of beer, but there was a catch. We had to walk upstairs to “reverse pour it” from a 57 Chevy Truck. I was all in.

chevroletShe added a magnet to the bottom of the glass, set it on a base, and added pressure. Suddenly, the pint glass began to fill with beer from the bottom up. It was quite a sight.

Before we headed back downstairs to the bar, she excitedly gave me a tour of the upstairs dining room, pointing out refurbished railroad relics in the interior design. The outdoor patio was a showstopper. Traffic stoplights hung overhead patio tables, and from that vantage point, dinners could look down over the town’s train rails.

patioBack at the bar, I enjoyed the Smokey Turkey Club with onion rings with a side of sauce for dipping. It was made from top-quality ingredients and tasted delicious. In fact, everything on the menu looked crave-worthy.

lunchSporting events played on TVs as patrons filled the dining room. The bartender told me how the family, who has owned the restaurant for several years, sandblasted and reused industrial items to decorate the space. The entire restaurant almost felt partially like a museum, from the rustic chandeliers to the hostess stand.

PRO TIP: The design inside the bathrooms is a must-see. Trust me. When walking through the restaurant, look up, look down, and take time to appreciate the smaller design touches.

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

Winfield’s downtown corridor is dotted with at least a dozen retail shops worth checking out. It’s a haven for shoppers searching for locally-made items, antiques, and outdoor recreation stores.

I strolled into The Junk Generation (420 S. Main St.) and met the owner, who told me about her love of curating primitive antiques to sell at the store. The inventory included handpicked new items creating the perfect mix. Seasonal displays simplified holiday shopping.

The Junk GenerationThe store is a gem for shoppers on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces who don’t want to pay big-city prices.

PRO TIP: Store hours vary. View the store’s hours via the Facebook page before driving to shop there.

Walnut Valley Outpost (107 E. 7th Ave.) is a hub for gravel cycling and road biking. It is the kind of place where cyclists gather to swap stories and offer tidbits of advice. The shop also offers basic bike tune-ups and tire services.

In the market for a new bike? The owner is happy to educate shoppers on the models available for sale. Gravel cycling is popular in this area of the state, so she is your go-to expert on riding in the area and often hosts rides and events throughout the year.

PRO TIP: Ask about the option to rent a bike in the area. The owner stocks bikes for touring the town on two wheels. The store is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Snappy Chicks Boutique (1019 Main St.) is where ladies shop for jewelry and clothing apparel in Winfield. They specialize in interchangeable snap jewelry, so you can create customizable bracelets, necklaces, keychains, and more. Customers pick out a jewelry piece and select the snaps for it.

PRO TIP: If you have a custom snap design using a personal photo, ask Leslie or Marla to create it on the spot. It takes only minutes to prepare it for you.

Snappy Chicks BoutiqueThe staff at Field to Fabric Quilt Company (907 Main St.) is passionate about quilting, just like their customers. The shop is located on the Kansas Barn Quilt Trail Map and is featured in the All Kansas & Nebraska Shop Hop magazine. Known for carrying a large selection of cotton fabric, notions, and floss, it’s one-stop shopping. Beginners and veteran quilters can take advantage of on-site classes.

PRO TIP: Walk down to The Great Hall of Quilts to see handcrafted masterpieces.

quilt shop

GOTTLOB LAWN & LANDSCAPE

Calling all gardeners and green thumbs! Gottlob Lawn & Landscape (5001 E. 9th Ave.) is more than a landscape center. Inside, the retail shop carries a large selection of healthy houseplants, gardening tools, and unique gifts tailored for people who can’t get enough plants.

plant storeI also appreciated the outdoor gardens with walkable paths that lead underneath arched to whimsical spaces and greenhouses. If you’re shopping for herbs, native plants, and hardscaping options, or just need to talk shop about lawn care, Gottlob is where you go.

garden centerPRO TIP: Follow the Facebook page to stay current about monthly sales and upcoming events. Owner Alex Gottlob has big plans for developing an outdoor patio where guests can relax in a serene setting. Ask about picking wildflowers to place in a mason jar, $5.

BADGER CREEK STONE ARCH BRIDGE

Cowley County is home to 18 stone arch bridges, and since Gottlob’s was only a little over three miles from Badger Creek Stone Arch Bridge (13814 196th Rd.) I made the journey. During the 1800s, Walter Sharp was a bridge builder who used native stone to construct one hundred bridges in Kansas.

As I drove the damp dirt road, the road curved to the left before I pulled over for the bridge. It was difficult to navigate the embankment to get a photo of the bridge, but the view in both directions from on top of it was nice. The water was traveling quickly from recent rains.

PRO TIP: View a map of the self-guided tour using this brochure.

bridge

LADYBIRD BREWING COMPANY

I discovered a new stop on the Kansas craft beer trail at Ladybird Brewing Company (523 Main St). Located in a converted gas station, the brewery serves a rotation of ales typically featuring regionally sourced ingredients.

ladybird brewing companyPeople drive from out of town to visit the brewery open Thursday-Saturday. The shaded patio and indoor seating areas were filled with craft beer drinkers. Inside, you can select from 6-8 beers on tap.

I couldn’t decide which beer I wanted, so I created a flight of 3 oz pours. Cool Mom Pomegranate Saison was a winner. But honestly, I enjoyed all of the beer in the flight.

craft beerThe brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks were available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.

PRO TIP: Look for the cornhole boards on the patio to enjoy a friendly game while you sip on suds.

LUIGI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Hungry for a bite to eat before driving back to Wichita, I chose Luigi’s Italian Restaurant (124 E 9th Ave.), located down the street and around the corner from the brewery. A few locals recommended the fettuccini alfredo with chicken or the homemade pizza. I chose the pasta ($10.95), a large portion served alongside a basket of complimentary garlic bread.

Luigi'sThe prices were affordable, and the staff consistently visited the table to check on me. Other menu options ranged from baked pasta like lasagna and manicotti to stromboli sandwiches and meatball subs. In search of lighter fare? Order a Greek or caesar salad.

PRO TIP: Ask about the daily specials and wine by the glass. Six desserts are listed on the menu, including cheesecake, cannolis, and tiramisu.

pastaMy trip to Winfield was long overdue. When I told friends I was traveling to the area, everyone had good things to say about the Cowley County town. It turns out they were right. Winfield is wonderful. I know you’ll also appreciate a day trip to explore its many treasures. 

mural in winfield kansasOn my next visit to Winfield and the surrounding area, I plan to stop at Wheat State Wine Co. to take a driving tour of historic homes, and I want to rent a bike from Walnut Valley Outpost and ride along the levee trail.

downtown WinfieldHave you visited Winfield or attended the Walnut Valley Festival? Leave your comments below to provide your travel suggestions for the area.

Winfield

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: agritourism, antiques, bar & grill, beer, bluegrass, bluegrass music, boutiques, brewery, bridge, coffee shop, Cowley County, craft beer, disc golf, farm, farmers market, garden, gardening, Italian food, Kansas, lavender, Main Street, pasta, quiche, quilt, railroad, South Central Kansas, venue, vintage, Winfield

The Top Attractions in Leavenworth, Kansas

December 6, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Leavenworth is the ideal choice for an overnight stay to explore the state’s history and appreciate modern attractions. From breakfast time until long after the sun goes down, the northeastern Kansas town has more than enough entertaining things to do including shopping, dining, and strolling the historic district.

There’s a lot to love about Leavenworth.

Located between Fort Leavenworth and Kansas City, the location was the first city of Kansas established in 1854. History runs deep in this part of the state. Buffalo Bill Cody spent time there as a youth.

Historic Fort Leavenworth is the oldest Army post in continuous existence west of the Missouri River. It played a key role in keeping the peace between Indian tribes and settlers heading west.

President Abraham Lincoln’s final speech in Kansas took place in Leavenworth during an overnight stay. (The steps are now located on the lawn of the Carroll Mansion.)  Additionally, the Frontier Army Museum includes an exhibit about Lewis and Clark who made part of their expedition through Leavenworth. The gallery includes tools and military artifacts of the time. The Buffalo Soldier Monument is a must-see stop when tracing the history of the military.

Today, the town is a bustling community made up of welcoming folks. On a return trip to Leavenworth, I explored the best of the town’s attractions and overnight accommodations.

LODGING

Hampton Inn & Suites isn’t just another hotel chain. It is one of my top choices for places to stay for the price when searching out hotel accommodations. Not only do they have modern, clean facilities, but they also serve a full complimentary breakfast to guests. The Leavenworth location (405 Choctaw St.) also has some of the friendliest staff you’ll meet.

During my check-in, the front desk employee was kind and offered concierge services on the house. I was debating between a couple of restaurants for dinner and he helped make my decision an easy one.

My guest room was perfect. Spacious and comfortable, the in-room amenities included a refrigerator, microwave, and work center. Within walking distance of historic downtown, the view from my window showcased the town’s skyline.

The staff went above and beyond by gifting me a box of warm cookies, a welcomed surprise left in my room. I already felt at home in Leavenworth and I hadn’t even explored the town yet.

BREAKFAST

THE DEPOT

At the edge of the town’s 28-block historic downtown district is The Depot (781 Shawnee St.), an always-busy restaurant known for serving excellent breakfast and lunch classics. The eatery is located inside a beautifully restored Santa Fe train depot established in 1887. Voted Best Breakfast & Brunch, the place was filled with happy customers.

Walking the creaky wooden floors through one of several dining rooms, I eventually settled into a table. Tiffany lamps hung from the ceiling. Lace curtains flanked tall windows. Framed photographs of locomotives decorated the walls. It truly felt as if I was dining inside a train depot in the 1800s.

I ordered the Broken Yolk Sandwich made from eggs, bacon, and cheese from a menu listing hearty breakfast plates and a la carte items. As I looked at the plates of other guests, the portions were large. Satisfied with my choice, I knew I return to enjoy the Smoked Turkey Hash that I heard my server describing to another guest.

In the meantime, I snacked on the complimentary “duffin” before my meal arrived. The cinnamon and sugar breakfast bite is a part muffin, part donut, and all kinds of delicious.

They serve breakfast and lunch from 7 am-1:30 pm every day of the week. Like most businesses in Leavenworth, the family-owned restaurant offers a military discount. Go for breakfast, return for lunch, and if you’re feeling like a cocktail, ask about the drink special on the “Prohibition Ends at Last” card displayed on your table. Plan your visit and view The Depot’s hours here.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

RIVERFRONT COMMUNITY CENTER

I discovered the Riverfront Community Center purely by accident when in search of my breakfast destination. The building once served as the Leavenworth Union Depot and was the center for transportation and commerce in town after its completion in 1888. Now, it’s where locals and visitors can use recreational facilities.

The lobby is a must-stop for history buffs who want to familiarize themselves with the town’s beginnings. A framed photograph of Colonel Henry Leavenworth hangs on the wall. He founded the town near the Missouri River and the military post known as Fort Leavenworth also known as “the post that opened the west.”

C.J. Gift Co.

Nearly all of the buildings located in downtown Leavenworth are historic architecture. C. J. Gift Co. (30 Delaware Street), a home decor boutique, is located in an old bank building.

While there are many boutiques and antique stores in the historic shopping district, I’m a repeat visitor of C.J. Gift Co. I never leave empty-handed.

If you’re in search of a gift for yourself or your best friend, stop here to pick up unique seasonal decor items, jewelry, or candles. Not sure what to buy the sports fan in your life? Their shelves are also stocked with collegiate gear. Because the town is the home of Fort Leavenworth, C.J. Gift Co. has home decor items specifically designed for military families.

The husband and wife team is incredibly friendly and helpful. During my visit, I wasn’t finding what I was looking for right away. Thinking she didn’t carry the particular item, she returned from the back of the store with exactly the kitchen decor item I wanted. Not only that, she packaged it up so it would travel home with me without breaking.

When in Leavenworth, make your way to the boutique to do a little shopping. Check their store hours and upcoming events here.

Z&M TWISTED VINEYARD & TASTING ROOM

Everywhere you turn in Leavenworth, there is a business or group that proudly supports the military. Z&M Twisted Vineyard & Tasting Room (620 Cherokee St.) is no different. They partner with Homegrown by Heroes and Farmer Veteran Coalition Kansas to produce locally sourced wine.

The veteran-owned and operated winery’s tasting room is centrally located downtown across from Hay Market Square. They are open for wine tastings and retail shopping. I chose a seat at the tasting room counter and ordered the Tasting of the Month, a flight of five selections.

The wines were tasty and worth trying, however, I appreciated the Mulled Wine the most for its spicy, seasonal flavor. All of the wines were unique, especially Hellfire, which is made with jalapeños providing surprising heat with each sip.

A flight lets you discover a wine that you will appreciate the most – take home a bottle for your personal collection. They also sell jarred jellies and gifts for all of the wine lovers in your life. Plan a visit to the tasting room by viewing their hours here. Call head to book group visits and reserve space for events.

LUNCH

FIRST CITY CHEESE MARKET

If wine had a partner in crime, it would be cheese. Directly next door to Z&M Twisted Vineyard is First City Cheese Market (610 Cherokee St.). Walking into the shop is like stepping into heaven if you’re a cheese lover like me. Refrigerated cases are full of artisan cheese wheels, sausage, and samples ready for tasting.

Several business owners around town told me that I’d love the food at First City Cheese Market. Still feeling full from my mega breakfast, I ordered a grab-n-go charcuterie cup consisting of cheese, crackers, grapes, and nuts.

The staff makes gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches Tuesday-Saturday and serves a Soup of the Day. You can expect fine cheese stacked atop sandwiches like Gobble-Gobble made with smoked turkey or the Roast Beef Explosion prepared with cheddar cheese and spicy horseradish. Be sure to ask the staff about the monthly sandwich specials priced at $9.99/each.

Also a retail space stocked with top-of-the-line kitchen gadgets and specialty foods, shop First City Cheese Market for household essentials while waiting for your lunch to be prepared. They also sell 24 different whole bean coffees by the pound.

C.W. PARKER CAROUSEL MUSEUM

It’s been a long time since I feel the pure joy I experienced as a playful kid, but I felt it again at the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum (320 S. Esplanade St). Tucked away at the edge of downtown, a massive building is a home to a beautifully restored, fully operational carousel built in 1913.

With my feet kicked up and smiling with glee, I rode the carousel and felt like a kid again.

You can also take a ride on the carousel for the price of admission to the museum. Named one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas, it has 24 horses, four chariots, and a Wurlitzer band organ donated by one of the town’s most famous residents and musicians, Melissa Etheridge.

Volunteers operate the museum and happily give guided tours to visitors. Parker started a career manufacturing amusement park rides including carousels. Also known as the “Carnival King,” he built his first carousel in 1892 and started the company two years later eventually moving it to Leavenworth. In fact, Leavenworth has produced more carousels than any other city in the world. He was a millionaire by age 30.

Perhaps you’ve ridden another one of his carousels at the Dickinson County Heritage Center in Abilene?

The corn cob and jackrabbit symbol designed on some of the Parker carousel horses are some of his design trademarks.

Opened in 2005, the museum tour begins with a 15-minute film in the theatre room to learn the history of Parker and his company. During my visit, a gracious volunteer took me on a tour of historical photos and pointed out the intricate work done by volunteers to bring the beauty of the carousel horses back to life.

The museum’s upstairs gallery is a showroom of historical photographs, carousel horses, and advertisements from 1850s amusement parks. (Pro Tip: Ask to see the woodshop where the work is done to restore each carousel horse.)

The facility is also home to two other carousels including the oldest known working American carousel. The Primitive Carousel (pictured below) is believed to have been made before the Civil War between 1850-1860. Each horse was made from eight pieces of wood.

I know you’ll smile ear-to-ear during your visit to the museum as well. The volunteers and I became instant friends. It’s a rewarding experience for the entire family.

Get a glimpse of what you can expect by watching this entertaining video or to plan your visit and view the museum’s hours, visit the Facebook page.

LEAVENWORTH LANDING PARK

Directly across the street from C.W. Parker Carousel Museum is the Leavenworth Landing Park (2 Cherokee St.). A quarter-mile parkway with beautiful landscaping along the Missouri River, visitors and locals can stroll the walkway with scenic views. If you’re lucky, you may spot an eagle in flight.

Symbolic sculptures reference riverboats, railroads, and wagon escorts. Scan the information kiosks along the trail to listen to an audio tour guide. Keep in mind, the park serves as the entrance to the Three-Mile-Creek Trail ideal for walking and biking no matter your skill level.

CARROLL MANSION

One of the top attractions in Leavenworth is the Carroll Mansion (1128 5th Ave.).  The Queen Ann Victorian home is listed on the National Historic Register and is the oldest continuously operating museum in the county. Built in the 1880s, it is worth seeing up close for its beautiful stained glass windows, opulent furnishings, and hand-carved woodwork.

My guided tour was led by a member of the Leavenworth County Historical Society. Unlike some of the restored mansions I’ve toured in Kansas, this one was different because several families had lived in the mansion at different times prior to it becoming a museum.

The home itself had underground multiple expansions over the years. In fact, it was initially a farmhouse for the Foster family in 1858. Over the years each family added to its square footage.

Each room is filled with elegant antiques from the Victorian era. Large mirrors, long curtains that pooled up on the floor, and a Victrola are symbolic of the Victorian style of the time. I was silenced by the beauty of the study’s handcrafted built-in bookshelves and lavish fireplace. (Pro Tip: Look for the framed map of Leavenworth on the wall of the study.)Guided tours take about an hour. Open Tuesday-Saturday, admission is $6 and worth every penny. Touring the mansion allows you to virtually step back in time when the town’s most prominent residents spent their wealth on lavish homes and furnishings. Be sure to ask about the dog statue situated on the front lawn. It’s an entertaining story.

Keep in mind that the town hosts a Historic Homes Tour at Fort Leavenworth in April if you want to combine both tours in one visit to town. Plan your visit to the Carroll Mansion here.

MELISSA ETHERIDGE’S CHILDHOOD HOME

Leavenworth is the hometown of singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge. She was born there and lived in the town until 1979. Many of her songs reference Kansas.

Out of curiosity, I drove to her childhood home (1902 Miami St.) to take a look at it. It was a modest middle-income neighborhood that included a nice park. If you decide to include the home as part of your Hometown Tour, download the brochure that details all 15 stops in Leavenworth here.

DINNER

LUIGI’S 418 ITALIAN RESTAURANT

After a full day of exploring Leavenworth, I was excited to dine at a restaurant that I had spied on social media and heard good things about, Luigi’s 418 (418 Cherokee). Even though I arrived during the onset of the dinner hour, the hostess was already greeting a short line of waiting customers. I opted for a seat at the bar for instant service.

The ambiance was sophisticated without trying too hard. Shelves of wine bottles decorated the wall near the bar. Seating encompassed the entire bar while patrons in the dining room sat at windows seats facing historic downtown.

All of your go-to Italian entree classics are available on the menu. I was warned the portions were big, and the bartender wasn’t kidding. Maybe I shouldn’t have eaten so much of the herbed garlic bread. It was irresistible.

The Picatta pasta arrived in an oversized bowl. Prepared with spaghetti and a white wine sauce, it was topped with copious amounts of capers, tomatoes, and chicken.

I concluded my dining experience with a chilled glass of Limoncello liqueur, which I’m told the owner makes herself. It’s essentially infused vodka. The traditionally Mediterranean drink is a staple in Italian households. I appreciated the smooth, authentic lemon flavor.

Sitting at the bar, I was privy to the hustle and bustle of the waitstaff. The phone rings constantly with to-go orders. Luigi’s 418 is a popular restaurant for a reason. The delicious food the courteous staff makes it one of the most highly recommended restaurants in town.

MORE PLACES TO VISIT

I retired to my hotel for the night all the while thinking of the places I look forward to visiting in Leavenworth given more time. Fort Leavenworth National Cemetary. Lewis and Clark Center. Leavenworth Antique Mall. Sis’ Sweets for a cupcake.

I certainly will return to Kansas’ “First City.” There are just too many things to love about Leavenworth.

 

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: Army, calvary, carousel, Carroll Mansion, cheese, depot, Etheridge, First City, Fort Leavenworth, Italian, Leavenworth, Lewis and Clark, limoncello, Luigi's, mansion, military, Missouri River, pasta, railroad, Santa Fe, soldier, wine, winery

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Ammar
Hello! I'm Vanessa. Welcome to One Delightful Life, a blog created to add more delight to your life with delicious recipes, travel destinations, and lifestyle improvement ideas. Thanks for exploring my blog!

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