As a lifelong writer and author, I’ve come to love the spirit of an independent bookstore. Each is unique, and bookworms can rejoice in page-turning experiences no matter which shop they visit.
New titles, old books, cats on cozy couches, and coffee counters serving cups of caffeine. You can find a Kansas indie bookstore near you that suits your style.
Bookworm’s Paradise: Discover Kansas’ Indie Bookstores
FLAGSHIP BOOKS – KANSAS CITY, KANSAS
Operated by two brothers, Flagship Books (510 N. 6th Street) in Kansas City, Kansas’ Strawberry Hill neighborhood is worth pulling over to check out. Open Wednesday through Sunday, the quaint bookshop sells gently used books at affordable prices.
The store’s inventory is organized by genre, and a wall of best-selling books consists of newer titles. I purchased a $10 hard cover cookbook, a new release by Rachel Ray.
PRO TIP: Ask about the car of $1 books. Titles are added almost daily.
TWICE TOLD TALES – MCPHERSON
Within minutes of your arrival inside Twice Told Tales (104 S. Main), you’ll pick up books to take home. The boutique second-hand store is stocked with a large inventory of gently used books, a small collection of new books, and gift-giving items ranging from journals to greeting cards.
The staff are always ready to help you find the book you’re searching for or can suggestion a new-to-you selection.
You’ll quickly be impressed by the high-quality selections as you peruse the bookcases. Of course, my eyes darted right to the cookbooks and travel guides, but I also found myself gazing at the rest of the gently-used books. The backend of the story is dedicated to the littlest shoppers, while the rest of the store stocks books for all ages.
BOOK REVIEWS – NEWTON
I hit the jackpot when I walked into Book ReViews (707 N. Main St.) in downtown Newton and so will you. The store carries an extensive collection of used books, which are donated to the non-profit business. All of the Book ReView’s proceeds support local charities – now that’s shopping you can feel good about.
The store is organized and managed by a small group of volunteers who are eager to help you find your next read. Open six days a week, book lovers can peruse well-stocked shelves for every genre from non-fiction to true romance. They make searching out a new book easy, too. The volunteer workers have painstakingly categorized the books and created thoughtful displays.
PRO TIP: Look for a small section of “free books” across from the register.
FAITH & LIFE BOOKSTORE – NEWTON
A local told me about a bookstore that I hadn’t shopped at yet, Faith & Life (606 N. Main St.). It was there that I met some of Newton’s nicest residents. After a warm greeting, I moseyed around the store admiring their large selection of books, Bibles, greeting cards, accessories, and gift items. A well-stocked store, it is one of the last remaining faith-based bookstores like it in Kansas.
Open since 2015, the store is operated as a non-profit with the hope of connecting people with the resources they need. Within moments of my visit, I spotted books and supplies for every age. Parents with children in tow will appreciate the kids’ section devoted to their reading needs.
RIVENDELL BOOKSTORE – ABILENE
Avid readers will feel right at home at Rivendell Bookstore (212 N. Broadway), where new and used books on endless topics or genres wait to be discovered. Organized shelves simplify finding a book, and helpful staff are eager to answer questions.
I appreciate the effort they make gift giving easy as well. Don’t leave without purchasing a Mystery Gift Bags($25) stocked with books bundled by topic.
PRO TIP: Do you love to put together puzzles? Walk to the rear of the store to be amazed by the selection.
THE DUSTY BOOKSHELF – MANHATTAN
Across the street, The Dusty Bookshelf (700 N. Manhattan Avenue) is a major draw for readers wanting a new title or a gift. Whenever I visit the store, I walk away with a bag of mystery books or purchase a new release.
A haven for college students, the upstairs tables are typically occupied by college-aged scholars seated behind laptops. Downstairs, the register area doubles as a cafe.
PRO TIP: Look for the table of Mystery Books bags labeled by genre that are sold for a set price.
THE DUSTY BOOKSHELF – LAWRENCE
A fixture in downtown Lawrence, The Dusty Bookshelf (708 Massachusetts Street) does an equally fine job of providing thousands of books for readers seeking to escape into a good read.
Carpeted floors creek with every step as shoppers meander the stacks of gently used books. The store’s cats spy at customers when they’re not napping in a sun-drenched spot near a window.
THE RAVEN BOOK STORE – LAWRENCE
The Raven Book Store (809 Massachusetts Street) has served the book-loving community since 1987. Their book inventory focuses on mystery titles; however, perusing the shelves you’ll discover fiction, poetry, romance, and science fiction genres. Parents and kids will be pleased with the section devoted to young readers.
Decorative ravens cut from paper dangle from string overhead as shoppers choose their next read. Like any good indie bookstore, a couple of curious cats are known to greet customers.
PRO TIP: Ask about the Mystery Fun Box, which houses a “well-curated surprise stack o’books.”
SEVEN STORIES – SHAWNEE
Book lovers will appreciate Seven Stories’ (11109 Johnson Dr.) inventory of new selections, gifts, and art. Owned and operated by a high school student, the shop operates out of a new storefront.
Shoppers can expect fiction and non-fiction titles, and I was impressed to see several best-selling titles in stock. Are you on the hunt for a good read during a road trip? Do you have a young adult reader interested in a new book? You’ll find multiple genres at Seven Stories.
BOOKS & BURROW – PITTSBURG
Books & Burrow (212 S. Broadway) sets itself apart from other independent bookstores because the owners hand-select titles in small quantities focusing on all readers’ ages.
You’ll notice that they don’t carry just best-selling titles but also curate new books that might not find elsewhere. For example, they stock a sizable selection of books by Indigenous authors, and the children’s book inventory is sizable.
PRO TIP: Check out the mural on the back of the building.
RED FERN BOOKSELLERS – SALINA
Red Fern Booksellers (106S. Santa Fe Ave.), gives visitors and residents something to rave about. No expenses were spared when renovating the commercial space into a high-end, independent bookstore resembling a store you might see in a big city.
The smell of new books welcomes you as you walk through oversized wood doors into the store. The store’s shelves are organized by category while stacks of the latest titles are arranged upon dark wood tables.
But you’ll find more than books at Red Fern Booksellers. I was impressed to discover hand-made gift wrap, stationary for sale, puzzles, stickers, and handcrafted greeting cards. My visit ended perfectly when a butterfly greeted me as I exited the store, a delightful experience.
AD ASTRA BOOKS & COFFEE HOUSE – SALINA
d Astra Books & Coffee House (135 N. Santa Fe Ave.) gets better every time I visit. Their new location is more spacious with a bright and cheery vibe. The welcoming staff is patient while I decide what drink to order (the monthly specials benefit a local non-profit).
The café offers patrons a place to sit back and relax with a book or meet as a small group. During my visit, several locals met friends and colleagues at oversized tables with access to free Wi-Fi. Other areas of the coffee house were dedicated to families with kids, and the back patio offered a quiet, more secluded place to unwind.
PRO TIP: Read on the inviting back patio.
RELIANT BOOKSTORE – EL DORADO
I was unaware of Reliant Bookstore (114 N. Vine Street) until I realized they were selling my first authored book, so I stopped by to sign copies of it.
Located in the original location of the local newspaper office, this hidden gem located in downtown El Dorado offers readers new and used in multiple genres. I appreciate the multiple seating ares and an array of board games available to play.
They are known for affordable pricing and offer free shipping to customers out of area.
EIGHTH DAY BOOKS – WICHITA
Eighth Day Books (2838 E. Douglas) specializes in new and used books primarily in the religion, philosophy, history, literature, and children’s fiction genres. However, the first floor of the shop showcased new releases from various genres. They pride themselves “offering an eccentric community of books.” Kids will love an alcove devoted to reading on the lowest level.
I particularly appreciate their local interest and Kansas history books, a modest section located on the second floor. In 2021, I was proud to see they stocked my first book and encouraged me to sign them when visiting.
PRO TIP: The store’s Year End Sale includes greatly discounted titles.
WATERMARK BOOKS & CAFE – WICHITA
For years, Watermark Books & Cafe (4701 E. Douglas Avenue) has remained my go-to indie bookstore when shopping for new titles and best-selling books. The store is stocked to the brim with a robust inventory of genres, and the children’s section is particularly expansive given the size of the store. Unlike some bookstores, they also carry gifts, ranging from bookmarks to socks with quirky designs.
Additionally, the café serves as an inviting place to cozy up with a newly purchased book between sips of coffee or homemade pastry.
In business since 1977, the store regularly hosts author signing events and book talks.
PRO TIP: Get there early because they close by 3pm or 4pm depending on the day of the week. Hours extend to 7pm on Thursdays.
LEFT ON READ – WICHITA
At Left on Read, shoppers can find new books supporting Black authors and creators. I enjoyed chatting with the owner who’s goal is to amplify diverse voices by showcasing books and literary-themed gifts.
The store is located in the heart of downtown Wichita in the Gallery Alley, which includes multi-colored café tables perfect for reading a book.
WATERMARK BOOKS & CAFE – WICHITA
Would you describer yourself as a reader who also appreciate a warm cup of coffee or tea? You’ll also want to check out my blog post, Kansas Coffee Shops You Simply Must Visit, a list of 35 cafes I’ve love. If you have a book to donate or want a free book, also read The Power of Sharing Books: A Little Free Library
I appreciated the detailed feedback, including the club face angle, stroke speed, and the ball’s trajectory. The ForeSight technology offers users various golf courses to select from, plus families with kids love its carnival game option.
PRO TIP: 
Artists can reserve a day pass to gain unlimited access to the warehouse’s equipment during open studio hours. Summer is a busy time for the studio when about a dozen instructors teach classes. Are you interested in painting, ceramics or paper crafts? They have a 
My instructor, Darren, taught me the step-by-step process of making a linocut drawing using a provided pattern. Admittedly, I wasn’t the best at carving intricate lines into the linoleum square (it’s more difficult than it looks!), but he patiently talked me through the process until it was ready for inking and rolling through the press.
I watched Problemista, a film about a mild-mannered young man working toward getting a VISA 
During your stroll downtown, you’ll quickly notice vibrant -olored murals peeking out from around corners and down alleyways. Each October, selected artists from across the globe converge on Salina to paint street art during the 
PRO TIP: Surround yourself with multiple murals by walking 
I took my time enjoying breakfast in the dining room as I watched the owner, Taylor, and her staff serve breakfast to drive-up window and dine-in customers.
The museum is known for hosting thematic events featuring specific makes and models of cars. 
PRO TIP: If you’re looking for a place to reserve for a group event, consider their 
The contributions of Kansas Department of Wildlife, volunteers, and supporters make Maxwell Wildlife Refuge what it is today, one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography.
Keeping warm with a lap blanket, we listened to volunteer tour guide, Les, inform us about native grasses and wildlife.
The looks on the kids’ faces was precious as each one became captivated by the narrative.
Parents snapped photos and chatted amongst themselves between bites of cupcakes and cookies. Afterward, Santa gifted a holiday-themed goodie bag to each child.
My take-home gift? I purchased postcards featuring photography taken by volunteers. Elk stood statuesque at sunset. Bison graze on prairie grasses under illuminated Kansas clouds.
I couldn’t resist taking my photo with Santa, who was eager to meet me. Perhaps I was the only adult who snapped a photo with the jolly ol’ guy? I felt like a kid again hoping for his approval and excited to tell him my Christmas wish.
You can also 
When visiting Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, consider exploring nearby towns to grab a meal and see the sites.
The north-central community of over 45,000 people has much to be proud of. Daytrippers will be impressed by the downtown area’s thoughtful design and unique businesses with something for every kind of traveler.
THE BATH PUB
The staff can also help you recreate a scent from an item you bring into the store, like an old perfume bottle or candle.
The fun continues throughout the store. Visitors are encouraged to take a photo in the store window’s bathtub. Children accompanying parents will enjoy the kids-only area that encourages artful play.
The smell of new books welcomes you as you walk through oversized wood doors into the store. The store’s shelves are organized by category while stacks of the latest titles are arranged upon dark wood tables.
Whether you’re in the mood to create a seasonal gift for your home or a complete dishware set, On The Pot provides all the supplies you need to finish the project.
Be sure to check out their inventory of Julie’s Stickers, a collection of whimsical drawings and sayings, to add to your purchase. The owners are in the process of creating five downtown Salina stickers to sell as well.
PRO TIP: Traveling with family? Groups of 10 or more can book the studio for a reduced rate on studio fees with a 
From outfits with vibrant colors to unique Cansuelas handbags, the store lives up to its motto, “Be a Little Eccentric.” Shoppers searching for day-to-day closet staples will also find what they’re looking for.
The clothing and shoes inventory is constantly rotating for the seasons, and shoppers are guaranteed to find sizes available from XS to XL.
Beautifully upholstered chairs sit adjacent to elegant lamps and candleholders. Ornate plates adorn tabletops. Framed artwork, figurines, blankets, and garden urns reveal the shop’s distinctly different inventory. Body products and greeting cards near the register make a fabulous gift for a friend.
PRO TIP: Browse Baron Mushmouse’s clothing racks for Bohemian-style blouses, dresses, and dark denim jeans.
Every well-equipped kitchen needs decorative towels and cookbooks with a pantry stocked with dip mixes and jarred condiments. You’ll find it all and more at The Market Shop.
PRO TIP: Wind your way through the store’s thematic displays for scented candles and home decor. The rear of the store is a clothing paradise for fashion-forward women.
A new outfit isn’t complete without matching accessories. Blushe Boutique’s selection of hats, jewelry, and shoes makes shopping for a last-minute dinner date a breeze.
PRO TIP: Because the store stocks seasonal clothing, check the clearance racks in the rear of the store for mega deals.
Locally-made furniture, art, and pottery are the focus of the shop’s inventory, and Flipping Fabulous carries most of the supplies one needs for at-home projects. You’ll discover the most extensive stock of Redesign with Prima in the world and Melange One Paints.
PRO TIP: Walk upstairs to admire custom-made gifts and home decor created by local and regional artists.
Thanks to ever-changing displays, you’re guaranteed to see something you want to purchase each time you visit.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend about half an hour inspecting the store to see everything it offers. If you bring a gal pal to shop, prepare to spend more time because so many of the finds are conversation-inducing.
The café offers patrons a place to sit back and relax with a book or meet as a small group.
The menu consists of “world regional” fare, which to my surprise, includes 15 types of sushi rolls as well as nigiri and sashimi platters.
The linen tablecloths, orchestral music playing in the background, and robust menu options deliver an unforgettable meal experience at Barolo Grille.
I stopped for a refreshing margarita only to discover it was already Happy Hour at 2:30 pm. The setting was relaxed, and I made conversation with the bartender between sips while sports played on the TVs. I look forward to returning for lunch and Horchata Bread Pudding.
I felt like a kid again, savoring every bite of Lemon Custard ice cream as a Dagney’s employee shaped homemade waffle cones behind the counter. The color-changing plastic spoon made the whole experience nostalgic.
Choosing my entree, Penne Carbonara with Chicken, wasn’t easy because the menu ranged from seafood dishes and steaks to wood-fired pizzas. I appreciated the pasta dish, topped with a raw egg yolk that I was encouraged to stir into the black pepper cream sauce before enjoying it.
While all the street art designs are worth discussing, the enormity of the Mural at the Mill (343 N. Santa Fe Ave.) by Guido van Helten begs visitors for a closer look. The Australian muralist’s work wraps around all sides.
There is a buzz of creative momentum in Salina’s downtown. You can feel it as you shop, eat, and admire the area’s art scene. I recommend spending the day exploring it like a local.
The residents have always treated me kindly. Their welcoming spirit is genuine. I’m one of the town’s biggest fans for its progressiveness, focus on the arts, and plethora of entertainment options.
LODGING
I had the pleasure of staying in the 
The new hotel features Hilton’s expected amenities and then some. The beautifully decorated hotel is designed in a modern style with references to the region from the lobby’s opulent, gas-powered fireplace to the private library with the finest furnishings.
Guests also have access to complimentary free nearby parking, a hot breakfast, free WiFi, evening socials Monday-Wednesday. The impressive evening socials give guests a chance to unwind with an alcoholic beverage and a light dinner – and it’s all included in your stay.
The fitness room was the largest I’d ever seen in a hotel and it featured top-of-the-line exercise equipment. For swimmers looking to do laps, the pool is definitely large enough. Lounge chairs also make it an ideal place to sit back and close your eyes in relaxation. The facilities were clean and spacious. 
Homewood Suites by Hilton has thought of EVERYTHING. For travelers who have an extended stay, they’ve provided a laundry room for guests to use, a delightful discovery. Imagine arriving home with a suitcase of clean clothes!
And it gets better! Upon check-in, you’ll be asked what kind of complimentary coupon you would like to use at the hotel’s Starbucks cafe. Buy One, Get One specialty coffee beverages? Don’t mind if I do. Homewood Suites by Hilton rolls out the red carpet. After getting settled into your room, you’ll want to extend your stay. I highly recommend 
The 90-minute dramedy, set in 1912, told the story of scientist Marie Curie who spent two months at her friend Hertha Ayrton’s seaside home recovering from the emotional scars from public scrutiny. The two-person cast performed in a black box theatre where the audience sat only feet from them. It was a moving experience.
I love a museum that tells a story well. Did you know that Salina was once the third-largest producer of flour in the world? The newest exhibit, “
Eventually, the town became a crossroads for industry that included the railroad, Schilling Air Force Base (closed in 1966), technology companies, trucking, and healthcare.
The museum includes an abundance of hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. From examining parts of a buffalo to building a city and starting a tornado to playing with old-fashioned toys, Smoky Hill Museum is an entertaining experience. Make sure to walk upstairs to 
Before you exit the museum, purchase Kansas-made products and keepsakes in the gift shop. They have a wide selection of travel guides and non-fiction books about Kansas.
There is no charge to visit the Smoky Hill Museum. They are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Plan your visit 
Opened as the Fox-Watson Theatre in 1931, it was the idea of a wealthy grocer and banker in Salina. W.W. Watson, with help from others, opened the doors to the movie palace considered “one of the most beautiful in Kansas.” (Source: Stiefel Theatre). It was later renamed after Milton Stiefel who was a major contributor to its renovation.
Fast forward decades later after a major renovation in 2003. The theatre’s state-of-the-art sound system, backstage accommodations, and stunning interior make it a must-stop venue for performers.
Later, I met up with the executive director of the 
If you also appreciate listening to orchestral music or perhaps have always wanted to hear it, you can purchase tickets to one or all of the six concerts performed each year. The holiday show is so well attended that it was expanded to two days.
My first priority when touring Rolling Hills Zoo was to visit the giraffe exhibit. I approached the area slowly as to not startle them. To my surprise, Zuri, Billie, and the youngest, Korey, were as interested in me as I was in them. Korey, who was born in December 2020, is 10 feet tall and growing. The other giraffes are 11 years old.
I visited the zoo in the early afternoon hours when most of the animals were napping, including a bear in a hammock. However, a tiger rose from his slumber to yawn in acknowledgment of passersby. Capybaras and flamingos explored. Barnyard animals greeted children.
The zoo has an 
A visit to Rolling Hills Zoo should be at the top of your list of things to do when in Salina. To experience the upcoming events, view gate admission prices and the zoo’s hours, visit the 
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Known for carrying antiques, market finds, and locally-made jewelry, 
In search of new clothes to add to your closet? 
I came home with a pair of earrings from 
Also a place for families, the youngest visitors will appreciate the children’s book section and inviting gumball machine. I recommend asking about the specialty coffee of the month. Proceeds from my purchase of a Bee Kind Latté went to a local non-profit. You’ll find it difficult to leave without buying a book, t-shirt, or Kansas-themed gift.
DAGNEY’S ICE CREAM
MARTINELLI’S LITTLE ITALY
Leave room for homemade tiramisu or creme brûlée. Ask for the drink and dessert menus before ordering your meal to plan ahead. The family-style portions are HUGE. A quarter-size pasta dish is prepared with a half-pound of pasta. The spaghetti comes with a one-pound meatball. You’ll need a to-go box.
DAIMARU STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR
Daimaru is popular with locals. The sushi chefs never stood still. I watched as they prepared enormous sushi platters. Artfully designed, the sushi tasted as good as it looked.
