Disclosure: Visit Kearney sponsored my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine.
Kearney, Nebraska, is one of those towns you wish you’d known about sooner.
The town’s downtown scene thrives with boutiques, and you’ll find numerous breweries, attractions, and luxurious hotel accommodations ideal for a weekend getaway.
Whether you’re traveling solo like me or sneaking away on a girls’ weekend or couples’ excursion, use my travel blog as your essential guide.
I recommend reserving lodging at Crowne Plaza® Kearney, and then setting out to explore The Bricks District (downtown) with added stops at places like The Archway and Yanney Heritage Park as time allows.
Kearney, Nebraska: Things To Do From Downtown Boutiques to Breweries
MUST-SHOP BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY STORES
If strolling downtown among beautiful murals and shopping at clothing boutiques or specialty stores sounds like an ideal afternoon, The Bricks District is your dream destination.
Kate’s Botanicals & Candle Studio
Sure, you could buy a candle. But what if you made it yourself? At Kate’s Botanicals & Candle Studio (2119 Central Ave.), I crafted a one-of-a-kind candle in less than 30 minutes.
Creating my custom candle was as easy as choosing a vessel, blending the chosen scent into melted coconut wax, and adding a clean-burning wick. Within hours, my candle was ready to pick up and enjoy.
The shop also sells beautiful, hand-crafted soaps that pair well with a candle to gift to someone.
PRO TIP: Walk-ins are welcome, but if you want to arrive with a group, reserve a private party session.
Rolling Peach Boutique
The Rolling Peach Boutique (2220 Central Avenue) is for women who want to dress fashion-forward while incorporating seasonal trends into their wardrobe, in sizes ranging from small to extra-large.
Handbags, shoes, and a selection of charmed Kendra Scott® necklaces round out the clothing inventory from brands like Free People®, Risen®, and Thread and Supply®. Expect bold colors and plenty of Nebraska apparel.
The 308 Boutique
Stylish separates, jackets, Liverpool jeans, and flowy dresses for women hang from displays at The 308 Boutique (2302 Central Ave.)
As a middle-aged woman, I felt like the inventory resembled pieces I’d choose for a business-casual affair or a special date night: matchable, neutral colors, and chic.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss the clearance racks upstairs.
The Rustic Patch
Shop at The Rustic Patch (2100 Central Ave.) for home decor items, hand-painted door hangers, and candles to add to your home.
Most items have a country-meets-farmhouse style. Most of the inventory comes from local makers, and a back room includes specialty food items like dip and drink mixes.
I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, who paused from a paint session to welcome me. Her seasonal door hangers are top sellers.
PRO TIP: Book a ticket to the store’s next door hanger paint party online.
Central Mercantile
Central Mercantile (2206 Central Ave.) is one of the best kitchen supply stores I’ve ever shopped.
Housed in a building dating back to 1910, it carries everyday kitchenware and gadgets for the modern-day home cook. Stop for a cute coffee mug; leave with a new Smeg® espresso maker.
PRO TIP: The store is home to KTown Cakery, so be prepared to go home with a cheesecake, and they also serve a lunch menu from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Olde Towne Alchemy
Discover whimsical gifts for yourself or the holistic-minded friend in your life at Olde Towne Alchemy (2017 Central Ave.)
The store smelled of incense as I browsed rooms filled with crystals, tarot cards, essential oils, candles, and more. A woman selected a ring with an energy stone at the front counter.
A journey into a back room that resembled an apothecary shop revealed an herbalist’s paradise with endless jars of medicinal herbs and CBD products.
Buffalo Records
Shopping for used vinyl records is my latest hobby, so a stop at Buffalo Records (19 E. 21st St.) was a must when strolling downtown Kearney.
Indie rock played from the speakers as I joined other audiophiles to search for newly released albums and used classics.
If you’re used to shopping for vinyl records, you know that prices vary based on quality and release date. I appreciated that the store’s used records were affordably priced, ranging from $5 to $12.
PRO TIP: Walk to the back of the store to shop for pre-owned compact discs and cassette tapes.
Simply Blessed Boutique
Friendly staff, tasteful women’s clothing, and gifts make Simply Blessed Boutique (2 Locations) a worthwhile stop.
Shopping at its downtown location? Creating a game day outfit is easy. You’ll likely leave with a cute Nebraska Huskers top to pair with a red handbag and faux pearl earrings.
The satellite store inside Crowne Plaza® Kearney appeals to a more mature shopper seeking a neutral color palette.
SIP-WORTHY BREWERIES
For a town population of 35,000 residents, I was surprised by the number of breweries in Kearney. The variety of craft breweries is refreshing, and each offers a unique tasting experience.
Thunderhead Brewing
My first stop in Kearney was Thunderhead Brewing (18 E 21st St.). I heard that they serve excellent craft beer, and locals recommended ordering a pizza or calzone.
I was surprised to discover they have 28 craft beers on tap. They brew seven flagship beers; the rest of the taps are limited, big-batch, or Trever’s Leftovers selections.
After sampling a couple of beers, I chose the Leatherhead Red Ale. The English-style beer delivered the maltiness and light caramel and toffee notes that I prefer.
If you don’t drink beer, Thunderhead Brewing Company will happily prepare a cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage. The whiskey selection is plentiful.
Upper Room Brewery
The co-owners at Upper Room Brewery (1540 W. 56th St., Suite D) greeted me warmly. The owners, a hospice chaplain and a business professor, launched the business in 2020 and have since expanded, opening 52 Taphouse in Minden, Nebraska.
1980s music played as I sipped a beer flight of IPAs and English-style ales. Ultimately, the Sunrise Hazy IPA was my preferred beer.
A faith-based business, which is obvious given the names of beers like Glory Cloud and Holy Water. The atmosphere is laid-back. You’ll likely meet friendly locals at the bar.
Kinkaider Brewing Co.
Upon entering Kinkaider Brewing Co. (221 11th Ave.), you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at a German biergarten. The tavern-style taproom is expansive which includes an outdoor patio overlooking a large pond.
The taps pour the brewery’s core beers, seasonals, and imported German beer. The Fox Hefeweizen, a wheat beer with notes of banana and clove, was smooth and pleasantly tasting.
The food menu features European-inspired appetizers like Scotch Eggs and Irish Nachos. Flatbread pizza, handhelds, and wings are common orders.
PRO TIP: The brewery includes a separate room with a bar often preferred by families seeking a less festive atmosphere.
McCue’s Nebraska Taproom
Locals hang out at McCue’s Nebraska Taproom (2008 Avenue A.) when they want to drink beer made in their state from one of 30 taps. Its Tappy Hour (Monday through Friday $5.50/pint) draws a crowd to watch televised Cornhuskers women’s volleyball.
Monolithic Brewing’s Hazy Benevolent Sun was the perfect citrus-hoppy beer I wanted to mark the end of the summer season.
PRO TIP: Consider bringing cash. The credit card reader machines can be finicky.
DELICIOUS DINING STOPS
There is no shortage of restaurants. Kearney’s dining scene includes international fare, sports bars, and American cuisine.
Kitt’s Kitchen & Coffee
Start your day at Kitt’s Kitchen & Coffee ( 2011 A. Ave.), where you’ll find yourself surrounded by colleagues eating breakfast at wood-topped tables behind laptops and others dining with friends.
Known for their crepes and scratch-made breakfast menu, I chose the Kitt’s Classic Breakfast. The perfectly cooked eggs and bacon were satisfying, though the berry jam on my sourdough toast was more like juice than a spreadable topping.
A flawless vanilla latte made with in-house roasted coffee complemented my dining experience.
If you choose a patio seat, check out the antique truck positioned outside, a homage to a cherished family member.
PRO TIP: Kitt’s After Hours Pub Nights offer a flatbread pizza menu and a lineup of drinks.
Penny Coffee Roasters
If you crave a quality coffee paired with a grab-and-go breakfast, Penny Coffee Roasters (2100 Central Ave.) is a must-stop on The Bricks.
Here, I reflected on my fun travel experiences while sipping a locally roasted drip coffee from a window seat.
The sausage roll was flavorful, though surprisingly small for $4. Ask about their pastry selection; they also serve lunch.
Central Mercantile ft. Ktown Cakery
At first glance, you may think Central Mercantile ft. Ktown Cakery (2206 Central Ave.) is merely a kitchen supply store. It also serves lunch from 11 am to 2 pm daily, and Ktown Cakery serves delectable cookies and cheesecake.
Select from a menu featuring classic sandwich recipes and deli wraps. Each comes with a choice of side and a freshly baked cookie.
I enjoyed a Chicken Salad Wrap while seated at one of the tables. It felt a little awkward eating near people who were shopping for kitchen gadgets, but overall it was a delightful experience.
Cunningham’s Journal on the Bricks
Cunningham’s Journal on the Bricks (15 W. 23rd St.) is the kind of sports bar where everyone gathers for lunch during a Husker game or dinner with friends before going to a show at The World Theatre.
Set in a building dating back to 1890, diners can watch TV from almost anywhere, and a small indoor stage often hosts live music. Upstairs, the room has a more laid-back college vibe, and an outdoor courtyard offers an escape from the Game Day crowd.
Journal Bites, marinated steak bites, are as good as the hype. You could order a burger, sandwich, or steak, but the Strawberry Feta & Chicken Salad is hard to beat–even if it is served in a cast iron pan.
PRO TIP: Happy Hour $1 off beers
Thunderhead Brewing
You don’t always find a brewery that produces high-quality food, but Thunderhead Brewing (18 E. 21 St.) fits the bill, serving stone oven pizza, calzones, appetizers, and salads.
They prepare specialty pizzas with creatively chosen ingredients. The 10″ Alfredo Chicken Pizza, topped with spinach and fresh tomato, was delicious and offered plenty of food for a one-person lunch.
Alley Rose
My favorite place to dine is Alley Rose (2013 Central Ave.). A mainstay since 1991, it offers an unbeatable lunch and fine dining experience.
If you’re inclined, Happy Hour specials are a great value for the quality. An order of hand-dipped onion rings that could easily feed four people was $5 during Happy Hour.
My server, Chanda, expertly reviewed the dinner menu with me, offering me advice when prompted about popular menu items like the Prime Rib and Palm Beach Mahi Mahi.
I ate every bite of the Grilled Salmon served with wild rice and sweet baby carrots before Chanda returned with a tray of house-made cakes to tempt me for dessert.
PRO TIP: Sit bar-side for Happy Hour between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., where the forest green booths and dark wood beams resemble an old European pub. Stained-glass skylights illuminate vinyl records that hang from the ceiling.
The Golden Spoon Scoop Shop
I arrived just before a long line of customers showed up at The Golden Spoon Scoop Shop (11 N. Railroad St.) on a Friday evening.
Traditional cookies-and-cream ice cream satisfied my sweet tooth after a day of exploring.
Indoor seating is limited, and there are only two tables outdoors, so expect to eat your ice cream on the go if the shop is busy.
DON’T MISS DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS
The Bricks District is a thriving downtown corridor of performing arts venues, a public library, and the Museum of Nebraska Art.
And if you know me, I never miss a chance to celebrate the arts.
Museum of Nebraska Art
You can easily spend an hour appreciating the renowned collection at the Museum of Nebraska Art (2401 Central Ave.). Before entering the historic building, take a moment to admire its stunning architecture.
The building, which served as the town’s post office since 1911, eventually opened as an art museum in 1986.
Visitors can take self-guided tours at no cost (donations welcome), perusing three floors of art galleries showcasing work done by artists who were born, lived, trained, or worked in Nebraska.
I was awestruck by a painting entitled “Buffalo Hunt on the River Platte” by Titian Ramsey Peale, 1799-1885, for its storytelling scene and quality.
Lounge areas and a children’s room are bonuses. The retail store sells pottery, jewelry, apparel, and print works from Nebraska makers.
Murals & Crosswalks Art
It’s hard to miss the beautiful hand-painted murals along Central Avenue’s pedestrian crosswalks and adorning buildings.
More than 15 large-scale murals, and you’ll likely notice trees covered in crochet, referred to as “yarn bombing” during Destination Downtown Night Market.
Impressed by the flowering planters and murals beautifying downtown, I complimented the town to a local who replied: “It’s a great place to live.”
PRO TIP: Embark on a mural scavenger hunt using this Downtown Kearney link.
The World Theatre
The World Theatre (2318 Central Ave.), inside a Masonic Temple built in 1927, is a volunteer-run performance space that hosts live acts and movies during the weekends.
Theatre-goers enjoy plenty of legroom wherever they sit, and locals rave about the buttered popcorn, made with corn from a local farmer.
I attended a performance by Joseph Hall, Elvis: Reflections Tribute Show. You would have never guessed the performance drew a modest crowd, given the high-energy show and the audience’s enthusiastic reception.
We laughed, cheered, and sang along as if we were in the presence of The King. He gave away satin scarves and threw teddy bears into the audience.
The show was electric.
I suggest arriving at least 15 minutes before the show to admire the theatrical artifacts in the lobby lounge, including original movie scripts.
A retro-themed candy store sells sweet confections.
BEYOND DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS
Kearney Welcome Center
Take my advice and visit the Kearney Welcome Center (220 11th Ave.), which is a fantastic way to ask employees questions or handpick brochures before exploring town.
Plus, the newly constructed building includes tactile and audio exhibits detailing the town’s history, from its 1800s railroad roots to the world’s largest annual Sandhill Crane migration.
PRO TIP: Take a photo with Miles, the life-size sandhill crane bobblehead statue.
The Archway
If you have an extra hour, visit The Archway (3060 E. 1st St.).
Open year-round, the immersive museum offers a self-guided audio tour through rooms designed to look like America’s defining moments along the Great Platte River Road. It sits near where the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails converged.
Upon entering the first room, lights flickered as rolling thunder over the Nebraska plains served as a backdrop to the pioneers’ story.
Onward, the history of the region unfolded until I stood near an early 20th-century touring car.
A replica drive-in movie theatre coupled with a walk-in roadside diner was a nostalgic trip back in time, and one I thoroughly enjoyed as a full-time roadtripper.
Perhaps the most fascinating part of the tour is realizing the museum is built directly over Interstate 80, and the view you can enjoy from the diner’s windows.
PRO TIP: Admission to The Archway includes an art gallery exhibit, the Mining Sluice where kids love to uncover gemstones, and a gift shop.
Yanney Heritage Park
When I saw a Chihuly glass sculpture in a Kearney travel brochure, I knew I wanted to see it firsthand. I tracked it down at Yanney Heritage Park (2020 W. 11th St.).
What I discovered there took my breath away.
Artistic sculptures of flowers, butterflies, and birds are displayed throughout meticulously landscaped gardens. Native grass grows alongside flowering plants. Vibrant color emerges from the ground at every curve of the paved walkway.
The park features a playground with a splash pad and a walk-up lookout tower.
PRO TIP: Chihuly glass sculptures are also displayed inside the Rental Facilities.
LUXURIOUS LODGING
Crowne Plaza Kearney
Crowne Plaza® Kearney by IHG (707 W. Talmadge St.) was my preferred home base during my overnight stay.
It’s a newer, dynamic hotel accommodating travelers in town for business and personal vacations. The hotel is stylishly modern in hues of blue and grey, including its expansive main lounge area and guest rooms.
The hotel anticipates every guest’s needs.
Hungry? Grab something quick to eat at The Marketplace or settle in for Happy Hour followed by a Midwest-inspired dinner at Fyre Modern Grill. It serves three buffets throughout the week.
A full-service Starbucks serves customers from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Female travelers will appreciate Simply Blessed Boutique, an on-site apparel and gift shop.
Perhaps you’re traveling with family? They’ll appreciate burning off energy inside the arcade or swimming at the indoor waterpark (sauna for the adults!).
The fitness facility is one of the best I’ve seen at a hotel, complete with machines, weights, bands, and yoga mats.
Guest rooms are simple in design yet spacious. I took full advantage of the fully stocked coffee station and work desk each morning.
Road-trippers can enjoy free parking, though the hotel guest lot is a bit of a walk from the main entrance, since most of the prime spots are for restaurant guests.
If you’re arriving at the Kearney Regional Airport, guests have access to a complimentary shuttle, a hotel perk that is hard to find these days.
I can’t say enough good things about Kearney.
Every moment of my weekend was a delight, and I know you’ll be equally enamored with its boutiques, breweries, and dining scene.
If you’re continuing your Central Nebraska road trip South to Kansas, consider stopping in another town I adore for its charm: Red Cloud.
Wichitans will tell you the city is large, but it feels like a small town. After a brief conversation with photographer Mickey Shannon, we learned that we are Wichita natives who share a love of Colorado.
It’s an excuse to mingle with friends with a handcrafted cocktail between bites of local fare. You can count on a lively atmosphere with live music, and organizers always gift guests a swag bag at the end of the night.
I grew up visiting the region, and my first visit to Larned confirmed that it’s a town deserving of an overnight stay to experience all it offers, from historical tours and outdoor adventures to strolling downtown businesses.
I recommend visiting midweek, when most shops and restaurants on Broadway Street are open.
They have a variety of specialty coffee and tea drinks, and I recommend asking to view the seasonal menu. I sipped a Queen Bee Latté between bites of a fresh-from-the-oven banana nut muffin.
Also known for serving Italian Cream Soda and Dirty Sodas, the shop will appeal to customers with a sweet tooth, offering drinks made with flavored syrups such as Cotton Candy Dream and Cocoa Caramel Kiss.
The 13-seat diner smelled of freshly cooked bacon as the morning sun made the vinyl-covered, cherry- red stools sparkle. A television played the news while I awaited a heaping plate of the day’s special: French Toast with eggs and bacon.
I ate every bite, watching as Larned residents came and went with pick-up orders in hand. The owners greeted each child by name and asked about their summer plans.
After a morning of exploring, I devoured a well-seasoned bacon cheeseburger and a side of hot onion rings.
The staff serves beer and cocktails from a full bar, with additional seating near the cash register.
A bell rang, alerting my server to deliver my order: a combination plate featuring a freshly prepared chile relleño and a beef taco with guacamole salad, both from the Luncheon menu. Their salsa is some of the best I’ve tasted while road-tripping through Kansas.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner specialty entrees you’d expect, plus a rotating selection of bar drink specials, such as margaritas and Mexican beer.
You’ll also find 11 different burger options, steaks, shrimp, or fish with fries, as well as wraps, salads, and protein-packed sandwiches like the Philly Cheesesteak on the menu. Families are welcome at the bar and grill. The kids’ menu features seven meals.
An added touch of salt made my chicken-fried steak dinner better between sips of iced tea. I’m glad I ordered the “small” plate, which was plenty of food for one. My only regret is not planning ahead to enjoy the cheesecake egg rolls.
The 
Other areas of the park include a beloved duck pond, basketball and tennis courts, a water fountain, a playground, and picnic spots with grills.
Park at the gravel lot and then use the paved sidewalk to navigate to the shoreline or extended fishing dock.
Fancy a game of tennis? Bring your equipment to play at the courts before pausing for a hydration break on a tree-shaded bench.
The rusted, twisted piece of steel curved toward the sun. An original piece of the World Trade Center in New York, a relic of the 9-11 tragedy, it is a portion of the perimeter column located between the 34th and 35th floors of the No. 2 building.
PRO TIP: Look under the jagged metal at its base, which includes iron legs scaled to resemble the twin towers.
As a former high school golfer, I can attest that the fairways and greens were in top condition, given the hot summer temperatures. Golf carts meandered across the course as a men’s league wrapped up its play.
Before the railroad connected the West, wagon trains traveled the Santa Fe Trail carrying goods, dreams, and determination across the prairie.
For the most part, the Plains Indians respected the trail’s commerce. However, Kiowa Indians pounced upon Fort Larned on July 17, 1864, stealing over 170 horses and mules, thus creating a reason to escort wagon trains westward thereafter.
The best way to explore the fort is to arrange a 45-minute guided tour with a park ranger in advance, starting at the visitor center.
The park ranger’s key unlocked access to the men’s barracks, where 68 soldiers slept in iron beds (two men to a bed) in 1871. The smell of the original wood floors, foot lockers, and vintage wool jackets permeated the summer-warm air.
The soldiers’ humble living quarters stood in stark contrast to the officers’ spacious homes, decorated with hand-hewn furniture, rugs, and tables adorned with china and silverware.
The idea of working as a woman tasked with doing the soldiers’ laundry or tending the fort’s garden in the harsh Kansas heat and cold winters gave me pause.
To experience the fort in all of its glory with reenactors in costume giving demonstrations, attend one of the living history events during Memorial Day Weekend (May), Labor Day Weekend, Buffalo Soldier Fourth of July, Candlelight Tours (2nd Saturday in October), and Christmas Past (2nd Saturday in December).
ACCESSIBILITY: While much of the site is wheelchair-accessible over grass or a level, sandy trail, there are required steps to access buildings.
Indian artifacts, trade goods, and historic photos bring the trail era, dating back to 1821, to life.
Replica period rooms are designed to help museum-goers visualize what it was like to live in a middle-class home in the 1900s.
But my favorite part of the museum experience awaited me outdoors, where I took a self-guided tour of the historic Escue Chapel, the first church built by African American residents in the community.
Other outdoor buildings, like the dug-out house and sod house, represent how early pioneer settlers lived on the Kansas plains.
PRO TIP: The research library is free and open to the public, and if you’re interested in local genealogy, ask about access to the archives.
I didn’t see any original wagon ruts nearby, but I did stop to pay my respects at several Civil War graves.
Park at the gravel parking lot and follow the paved sidewalks to the interpretive signs that tell Pike’s story. Take note of the small mock gravestones honoring Private Robert Easley and Private Arthur Hughes, who perished in the area during the 1840s.
I was pleasantly surprised to find racks of colorful, fashionable blouses and jeans priced at $3 to $10.
Need a gift for a baby shower or a housewarming party? Shop the retail space for the ideal gift for someone, with country music playing in the background.
Owned and operated by two sisters, Scraps is a catch-all stop where you can purchase a grab-and-go meal or linger a while over coffee with friends from a comfortable couch.
Whatever you need, you’ll find it at Scraps. And should you require wedding supply services, the owners handle it all: catering, cakes, flowers, and tux rentals.
I’ve shopped plenty of antique stores, and this one is an experience. Located in the oldest church in town, dating back to 1897, Old Church Antiques showcases the collections of 18 vendors.
Walk downstairs to the lower level to purchase homemade baked goods from 
One visit to Old Church Antiques and Blessings Bakery won’t suffice. The store’s inventory and the bakery’s specials are updated frequently, so plan a return trip.
The store is a mainstay for the community, having recently celebrated 20 years of providing fresh floral arrangements, houseplants, gifts, body products, and candy.
Women will appreciate the keychains, dish towels, and coffee mugs with imprinted phrasing that speaks to them. Many of the home accents are floral-themed, making it a one-stop shop for the gardener in your life who deserves a gift.
Within minutes of my arrival, Dody took me under her wing, showing me interesting treasures, which included the store’s vast collection of framed artwork and prints.
PRO TIP: Walk into the store’s back room to explore shelves of out-of-print, national publications, from magazines to newspapers.
Located in its current spot since 1952, the store occupies 25,000 square feet of retail space, offering exactly what you need and want for your home.
In awe, I told the owner that I wished I had shopped for our furniture at her store rather than making multiple trips to various Wichita furniture stores to redesign our living room.
I adored the store’s selection of classic separates and in-season fashions, and I tried on a cute, floral dress. The store’s inventory ranges in sizes from small to extra large and appeals to most age groups.
Dress It Up makes it easy to pull together pieces to create new outfits, adding jewelry and shoes to complete the look. Tessa has her finger on the pulse of the latest fashions and hand-curates pieces for the shop.
Ready to repaint the interior of your home? The staff at the Paint Shop can personalize your purchase to your DIY needs.
What makes shopping at Doerr’s Ace Hardware even better? They fundraise for community causes. That’s why I love a locally-owned hardware store.
I was pleasantly surprised to find on-trend apparel at a price point most women ages 30 to 70 can afford.
PRO TIP: Watch Crossroots Boutique’s 
Installed in 2016, the towering, life-size figure with impressive details was made in Los Angeles by Bronzeman using the lost-wax process. A plaque reads, “For the Love of the Game,” in memory of Michael Bartz.
Die-hard mural seekers will want to keep their eyes peeled for murals adorning buildings at Larned’s city parks as well, like the one pictured below at Doerr Vernon Splash Pad and Park.
Library staff member encouraged me to use the complimentary high-speed WiFi and to explore the book shelves. During my Kansas Room work session, a second employee checked on me, proving that Larned residents truly are some of the nicest folks.
View the theatre’s Facebook page to review 
If you love discovering places where history comes alive and pausing to shop and dine at local businesses, add 
Visitors of all ages will appreciate the on-site activities, including the Magical Forest Ice Skating Trail and Glacier Slides Snow Tubing. You don’t have to be athletic to participate in either one. Schedule your arrival time, sign the waivers, and give it a go.
Although I’m not much of an ice skater, it was fun to try it. Finding a pair of skates that fit me was a bit of a challenge, but it was worth the experience once we snapped photos as the sun set and the holiday lights became aglow.
We watched families defy gravity at Glacier Slides Snow Tubing, which offers two options for ascending to the bottom: a kid-friendly “bunny hill” and a 30-foot-tall slide.
Participants screamed with glee as they slid downhill, and kids often begged their parents for a second run. Chris loved the speed and thrill of the descent.
Afterward, we listened to a pianist play and sing holiday tunes inside the Bah Humbug Sing-A-Long Piano Bar. I sipped spiked cider and, yes, found myself singing popular jingles. I felt the Christmas spirit.
We perused vendor booths before entering the second floor’s Tipsy Tree Lounge; we enjoyed another cup of holiday cheer while watching families explore the park below.
The festive experience concluded after selecting an ornament for our tree from the gift shop, a memento of our date night experience.
PRO TIP: Upgrading your tickets to include the VIP Pass is worth it, providing access to lounges, fast pass lanes, a welcome drink, a $10 gift certificate, and a to-go swag bag. 
We made a beeline for a tented room where Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome families. To my surprise, we had them to ourselves, so we chatted joyfully about their holiday duties before I requested a photo with them. A jolly time, indeed.
The Renaissance-themed holiday fun continues throughout the park as hobbyists perfect their craft.
Knights of Lights is designed to be a fantastical experience. 
You may love it so much that you’ll want to return when all vendors are available during the 
PRO TIP: Planning a date night? Purchase a 
A directory of apparel stores includes brands such as Kate Spade, J. Crew, Michael Kors Outlet, and dozens more. During a recent visit, we purchased three pairs of sneakers at Adidas for under $100.
Not only do many of the stores advertise low prices, but some offer additional coupons and clearance merchandise.
Specialty shops such as Gamestop, Claire’s, and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory make shopping for kids a breeze. I never miss a chance to shop for seasonal gifts at Home Goods.
And when you’ve worked up an appetite for holiday shopping, stop for a meal at one of over 20 
It’s our tradition to stop at the massive Christmas tree for a photo for our holiday card. Bringing kids? They can drop a letter to Santa in the mailbox at AMC Legends 14 Theater.
PRO TIP: Participate in the 
I recommend ordering two breakfast burritos per person, and the carne asada burritos are excellent. If you’re extra hungry, consider ordering the Torta Memo, a stuffed bread sandwich with peppers, grilled steak, and cheese.
PRO TIP: The green salsa is mild, and the orange salsa is extra spicy.
I recommend ordering the shareable Poke Nachos for an appetizer, which our server told us is the restaurant’s most popular request. Layers of marinated ahi tuna, peppers, truffle sauce, and Asian-inspired ingredients sit atop crispy wonton chips.
For lunch, I chose the Baja Shrimp Taco and Vampire Taco with a side house salad, a delicious balance of spicy seasoning and fresh ingredients. Our table also enjoyed a juicy Truffle Cheeseburger with truffle fries, a decadent combo.
Yard House is an excellent choice for dining, especially if you want to watch the game from a bar television.
For over 25 years, guests have ordered seafood stuffed po’boys, crawfish étouffée, and plates of pasta swimming in Creole-spiced cream sauce.
We sat at the bar to avoid a wait at the hostess desk, where two bartenders introduced themselves and told us about the three-piece live jazz band playing on the second floor. Expect live music every night of the week starting at 6:00 pm.
I ordered Shrimp & Scallops Pontchartrain, which was so rich in flavor and seasoning that I mopped up every bite of the tequila cream sauce with complimentary baguette bread. A bite of my boyfriend’s seafood fettuccini proved too spicy for my palette but so tasty.
PRO TIP: Although it’s not a sports bar, Jazz bartenders confess it’s a great place to enjoy a meal during a televised Kansas Chiefs football game because there is never a wait.
As an IHG Hotel Rewards member, I expect the hotel’s comfortable amenities, including a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and high-speed free Wi-Fi.
PRO TIP: Pack earplugs and a sleep mask for a guaranteed night’s slumber.
I’m a big fan of the 
But there’s more! If you extend your holiday vacation in Kansas City, Kansas, consider reading my blog posts 
The Northeast Kansas town of slightly over 2,000 people is one you’ll wish you visited sooner. The perfect girl’s getaway, thanks to its plethora of downtown shops, it also caters to every kind of traveler.
Inventory includes recognizable brands such as Swan Creek Candles and Mudpie. Also offering custom picture framing, Leah stays busy with custom orders and bridal registry fulfillment.
The inventory includes a range of gifts for men, graduates, and decorations for your home’s seasonal switchover.
Celebrating 60 years in business, the family-owned and operated store provides courteous service. They quickly ask what you need and walk you to the item. My purchase? A rain gauge, which I couldn’t find for sale at other stores earlier in the week.
Seneca Variety
PRO TIP: Don’t miss shopping the Discount Wall. I spotted holiday decorations marked down 40 percent.
Seneca is a multi-denominational community, and Uniquely Gifted’s inventory reflects faith-based values, particularly Catholic ones.
The owner, who has a degree in apparel merchandise, does an impressive job of carrying on-trend brands and everyday apparel necessities. Racks and tables display primarily women’s apparel, but men’s clothing and children’s shoes are well-stocked.
Order a healthy protein shake or tea at the store’s beverage counter, 
If you choose a graphic design from the templates book, staff can usually print your shirt the same day. And if you’re a K-State fan, this shop carries the most extensive collection of collegiate wear in town.
The owner carries recognizable brand names, including Ashley Furniture, La-Z-Boy, and Sealy, and the showroom includes outdoor patio sets as well.
The hardware store, run by the owner’s family for generations, maintains its architectural charm. Painted ghost signs on the wall, original shelving, and framed black and white photographs over the register are a glimpse into its past.
The owner gets up early daily to make various bars and donuts – apple fritters sell quickly. Diners with gluten-free dietary needs will appreciate crustless quiche, energy balls, and muffins.
My ham and cheese breakfast cheese made with flaky crust was the real deal. It paired well with a Mixed Up real fruit smoothie prepared with strawberries, pineapple, mango, and peaches.
I watched from the bar as the waitstaff greeted regular customers with their usual drinks, often predicting what they wanted to order for lunch. The day’s special, a Philly cheese sandwich, sold out before 1:00 p.m.
Not only did a downtown shop owner tell me I should order the sausage and kraut pizza, but my server, Kim, admitted it was one of her favorite meals. My medium pizza arrived piping hot, covered in savory toppings and stretchy cheese. I savored two slices before taking the rest home.
I chose a table at the clubhouse restaurant amongst golfers and locals on lunch dates. The menu, consisting of appetizers, sandwedges, and fried food baskets, was extensive given the size of the restaurant. The Hole In One quesadilla prepared with grilled chicken was fulfilling and worthy of a repeat order.
Over the years, the buildings’ owners have worked long hours preserving its wood floors and stained glass arched windows to create an inviting space.
I chatted with the owner, who showed me before and after photos of the building’s renovations. A Seneca resident introduced himself and told me stories of his past while he ate a cinnamon roll and sipped coffee. Cornerstone CoffeeHaus is a delightful stop.
As you walk upon the building’s original wood floors, explore a makeshift saloon, a replica schoolroom, and original artifacts for the Smith Hotel, a refuge for riders needing a break.
PRO TIP: The museum is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 pm. To guarantee a tour, call (785) 294-6655 to schedule an appointment.
The 
The museum is small but well-organized, and it includes fire station relics unique to its location.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss viewing the model building’s layout, a tribute to Seneca’s days gone by.
You’ll see graphic panels on points of interest along Main Street, each providing context to the building’s history.
The well is 34 feet wide by 65 feet deep, and the original pump remains on top of a service platform. Tours are available from May through October by calling the 
I was impressed with the accommodations, so I immediately called home to tell others about them. The owners did a meticulous job restoring the two-story space, which includes original wood floors and crown molding, and each room contains framed antique photographs of downtown Seneca.
Guests climb a tall set of stairs using a self-entry keypad entrance before entering the loft’s entrance. A modernized, open kitchen/living concept includes tall windows facing Main Street. A full-size laundry room with supplies is located off the kitchen.
I had my choice of two large bedrooms and settled on the one pictured below, featuring a queen bed with jersey-knit duvet bedding. Each bedroom included a dresser drawer for personal items and a flatscreen Roku TV.
After a full day of exploring and shopping downtown boutiques, I spent the evening unwinding in one of the living room’s leather recliners with a glass of rosé wine.
The following day, I watched the sunrise from one of the swivel window seats pictured above with a tall mug of complimentary coffee. As traffic on Main Street increased, I felt sad knowing I had to check out of my Airbnb and say goodbye to Seneca.
