Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
The more time I spend in Manhattan, the more I love it. The college town, home to Kansas State University, has what seems to be an endless list of things to do ranging from outdoor recreation to indoor dining.
There is a reason they refer to the town as “Manhappening,” a sensibility you come to understand quickly. I was thankful to be asked to return to town to explore places on my travel bucket list. But first, I needed to check into the newest hotel in the central business district, Aggieville.
LODGING
Courtyard by Marriott (715 N. 12th St.) opened during the summer of 2021 directly across from KSU’s campus. Nestled in the heart of Aggieville, it is the ideal place to stay if you’re hoping to walk to nearby shopping or dining. If you’re a Wildcat sports fan, it’s top-notch for accommodations when celebrating game day.
One of the perks of staying at the hotel is valet parking, which is the only way to park your car when at the hotel. It’s convenient, the valet staff works around the clock, and always greets you with a smile. They’ll even advise you where to dine out in Aggieville if you ask. Don’t forget to tip the staff.
The rooms are well designed with plenty of room to enjoy one’s stay. My room included a couch (in KSU’s purple, of course!), a plush king bed, and in-room amenities, including a refrigerator. With a view of campus, I could envision KSU families staying here when attending events on campus.
Other amenities you can expect while at Courtyard by Marriott include a fitness center open 24/7, a Starbucks coffee bar featuring small plate breakfast items, and an exquisite lounge with a gas fireplace. Order a cocktail or locally made craft beer at the bar and head to the outdoor patio for a pre-dinner drink.
Restaurants within a short walking distance of the hotel in “The Ville” that I’ve tried and wholeheartedly recommend include So Long Saloon, Taco Lucha, and Rock-a-Billy Bar & Deli.
BREAKFAST
FLIGHT CREW COFFEE
Wheels up! Flight Crew Coffee (423 Poyntz Ave.), in historic Manhattan, is ready to serve you. Opened this fall, the cafe is bustling with business. And for a good reason. The owner, Heather, has thought of every detail to ensure your “in-flight service” is seamless.
A bit of nostalgia and a bit of class. the cafe’s interior transports you to aviation heaven. Navy blue walls, black and white prints of airplanes, and a cozy fireplace invite you to nestle up with a coffee in hand. Jazz music plays in the background.
I enjoyed a steaming chai tea with a Quiche Lorraine for breakfast. As they say, “Our Coffee Gives You Wings,” and after my first visit to Flight Crew Coffee, my mood is flying high. Add it to your morning itinerary before stepping out to do boutique shopping. View the cafe’s hours here.
DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN
Fueled by caffeine, I was ready to shop until my heart’s content in historic downtown Manhattan. Native limestone buildings and ornate brick buildings made a stroll along Poyntz Avenue a delight. You will discover shops carrying home furnishings, clothing, fine art, and more.
SHOPPING
BLING GLAMOUR
I walked two doors down to discover a must-visit boutique. With clothes for every season and every woman, Bling Glamour (31 Poyntz Ave.) is your one-stop shop for on-trend apparel. When I learned that it was a women-owned business, I was ready to pull out my credit card.
I was shocked at the reasonable prices. The racks, table, and shoe wall were stocked full of items I wanted to take home. You’ll appreciate the way the store is set up making selecting new apparel favorites easy. Start at the front of the store to peruse racks of new arrivals. But there’s more!
Make your way to the back to find everyday essentials and sale clothing. I can easily see why this store is popular with locals. It carries the latest looks perfect for women of every size and style. If you can’t make it to the store, you can shop online and ship it to you here. The staff is friendly and happy to help.
FURNISH
Another new store on the downtown scene is Furnish (314 Poyntz Ave.), a home furnishings store that also offers in-store furniture consultation. One tour of the store and I was ready to hire their stylist to come to my home to redesign its interior.
Shoppers on the hunt for home decor reminiscent of Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn will feel right at home at Furnish. The showroom is filled with neutral hues with black accents. Homeowners in search of lighting, chairs, and kitchenware are in luck.
The burning candle’s scent drew me to the shelf you see below. I was happy to see a candle that I’ve purchased many times in Wichita from Nectar Republic. Nearby, accessories ranging from picture frames to books completed the vignette.
You’ll find it difficult to walk out of Furnish without a few gifts for yourself and new design ideas for your home. Plan your visit by viewing the store’s hours here.
SNW GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMES
Without a doubt, one of the coolest stores in downtown Manhattan, SNW Gallery & Custom Frames (328 Pontyz Ave) is worth checking out. The gallery is filled with breathtaking artwork by Kansas and regional artists, often including new artists’ work.
The creaky floors and the perfectly illuminated framed artwork draw you in. Every wall of every room is adorned with artwork for sale, including pottery. While some pieces deservedly command a higher price, I found many affordable prices for the casual shopper discovering new artwork.
As a native Kansan who spends countless hours driving across the state, I appreciate the works that featured the Kansas prairie. Landscapes by Kim Casebeer and Cristine Sundquist on display showed cloud-filled skies and the sun’s rays upon the flint hills. You’ll be impressed by the breadth and quality of the collections.
Since 1981, SNW Gallery has curated and displayed paintings, prints, drawings, mixed media, and more. Intricately designed jewelry is nestled near the register. Whether shopping for yourself or someone else, you’re bound to walk away from SNW Gallery with a special piece.
If you can’t make it to the shop, you can preview the artwork and purchase it online here. Peruse their Facebook events page to learn about upcoming events, including artists’ talks.
FOOD & DRINK
TALLGRASS TAP HOUSE
On the same side of the street as the gallery, I spotted Tallgrass Tap House (320 Poyntz Ave.). I missed my chance to taste their craft beers during my last visit to Manhattan, so I ducked inside and sat at the bar. The brewpub is massive in size and draws a lunchtime crowd.
I like to taste a flight of beers during a first-time visit to a brewery. Tallgrass Tap House rotates the lineup of beers to accompany their flagship favorites. My flight came with four 5oz pours. I’d recommend trying a variety of styles but make sure to ask about their seasonals.
I appreciated Skeleton Crew, and loved the sample of Tropical Golden Ale. Visit during Happy Hour Monday-Friday from 3pm-6pm for discounts and enjoy $3 Tap House exclusives all day on Sundays. Sit on the rooftop deck during warm weather days for drinks with friends.
MANHATTAN BREWING CO.
Stopping into Manhattan Brewing Co. (406 Poyntz Ave.) always promises a good time and a lot of beer drinking. There is just something about the friendly staff and the beers, which go down far too easily, that keeps me coming back.
Before my first beer was even finished, I was asked by Jake, the brewery’s sales and marketing guru, if I wanted to take a tour of the facility. My beer education began in the brewing area and ended in the basement cooler. I tasted the grain. I perused the rows of kegs. I peered into the tanks. What did I learn? As much as the owners joke around, they take brewing and selling craft beer seriously—the quality shows.
Keep your eyes peeled during a visit to the brewery for tiny plastic dinosaurs. The mural on the back wall makes for a nice selfie backdrop. (Female Readers: During your self-guided tour of the brewing, check out the bathroom. I’m going to leave it at that.)
As I sat at the bar and finished a Bodacious Blackberry Milkshake IPA, I learned that one of the top-selling drinks behind the bar wasn’t even a beer. It’s their house-made sangria.
For the owners of Manhattan Brewing Co., running a business is more than about slinging suds. Customer service is a priority.
Soon, Jake and I were joined at the bar. Brewers Garrett and Adam ponied grabbed a seat. Before I knew it, the four of us were walking a few doors down to Bourbon & Baker (313 Poyntz Ave), a restaurant and bar revered for its bourbon selection and gourmet small plates menu. It was an unforgettable experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend checking out both places when you visit Manhattan. View the brewery’s hours and the beers on tap here.
EL PATRON
I was overdue for lunch and knew just where I wanted to check out. Authentic tacos at El Patron (429 Poyntz Ave.) called me. It is known for serving street tacos using fresh ingredients and was ready to order.
With festive Mexican music playing in the background, I dove into soft shell tacos filled with beef and BACON. My taste buds went into overdrive. Now, I know what you’re thinking, but hold on. You haven’t lived if you haven’t tasted bacon in a street taco.
The lunch crowd clearly loved El Patron as much as I did. They drew a good size crowd made up of downtown workers and tourists. Looking around the restaurant at the plates on the tables, people were devouring fajitas, burritos, and seafood entrees. El Patron is a solid choice for lunch or dinner. View their hours to plan your visit.
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
TOP OF THE WORLD
An employee at the art gallery insisted that I needed to drive to the Top of the World. With a name like that, how could I not? I drove to the town’s overlook. Manhattan is considered the Gateway to the Flint Hills.
Under cloud-filled skies, I walked to the top of the gravel trail to peek out over the town. If you have time, make the easy drive only minutes west of Manhattan off of Kansas Highway 113. (Ask Siri or Google Maps to navigate it.) You get a 360-degree view of the college town. Dog walkers love it. Bike trails welcome cyclists. It’s a beautiful setting.
JOHNNY KAW
A visit to Manhattan isn’t complete without driving to the Johnny Kaw statue for a photo opp. Located at City Park, the fictional character towers over visitors. He’s a legendary Kansas settler. A man who planted wheat invented sunflowers, and grew potatoes. Johnny controlled the weather and never feared tornados or clouds. Sure, he did. To read the complete story of the “Spirit of Progress,” Johnny Kaw, click here.
Visit the statue to stand in awe and read about the KSU professor, Dr. George Filinger, who invented the fictional character to honor the town’s 100th anniversary of its founding. The park includes a swimming pool, splash pad, and playground equipment perfect for a family visit.
KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
The gorgeous colors of the trees during fall dotted the Kansas State University campus, and I could hear the marching band rehearsing. I mazed my way through the campus’ limestone historic buildings, around sculptures, and statues, and I found the source of the sound.
The football field was covered with marching band members moving in formation and playing an energizing song. The band’s director shouted from a megaphone, “Remember guys, we could make it to the bowl game. Again!”
No matter what alma mater you hail from, you need to tour the beautiful KSU campus.
DINNER + DESSERT
KITE’S AGGIEVILLE DRAFT HOUSE
Most KSU college students and out-of-town visitors know the bar Kite’s in Aggieville. However, the venue recently upgraded a neighboring space as Kite’s Aggieville Draft House (617 N. 12th St.). Essentially an upscale sports bar, the restaurant offers refined menu fare like Gulf Coast Smoked Redfish Dip, Low Country Shrimp & Grits, and Southern Fried Hot Chicken Sandwich.
With the game on TV, I wanted chicken wings. They arrived piping hot. The sauce had medium heat, and the blue cheese dressing cooled it off. While it wasn’t an entree, it hit the spot. Kite’s Aggieville is a good place to visit for what I thought was the coldest beer in town. You’ll appreciate the cloth napkins and the elevated menu. View the location and hours here.
VARSITY DONUTS
I don’t think I’ll ever make it out of Manhattan without ducking into Varsity Donuts (704 N. Manhattan). Their motto, “Donuts Make People Happy,” is true whether it’s after the sun rises over The Ville or during a late-night dash to the bakery.
But this visit was extra special. Surprisingly, most of the donuts were discounted because it was only minutes before closing – score! I walked back to my hotel with two donuts, well, one because I began to devour an iced cake donut before making it to my room. Learn about their late-night back alley food truck here.
OTHER PLACES WORTHY OF A VISIT
THE DUSTY BOOKSHELF
Grab a used book and a barista-brewed coffee and sit to enjoy a new read at The Dusty Bookshelf (700 N. Manhattan). The place has a nearly perfect score out of over 200 Google reviews for a reason. As they say, “books may well be the only true magic.”
MIDWEST DREAM CAR COLLECTION
Imagine dozens of spotless classic cars and hot rods under one roof. Read about what to expect during a self-guided Midwest Dream Car Collection tour in a previous post I wrote here.
Oh, MANhattan! You’ve done it again. With more than enough to do in an overnight stay, I recommend planning for a well-spent trip to the college town. You’ll walk away with fond memories and plans to return. I hope to stop by Pool House, Sunset Zoo, and Goolsby’s the next time I’m in town.
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.
After exploring Salina, it was nice to come “home” to modern amenities and comfy beds. We took advantage of the indoor pool and spa for ultimate relaxation. A complimentary full breakfast topped our list of must-have accommodations making Hampton Inn a smart choice for an overnight stay. “Hampton’s On the House” breakfast is served daily from 6 am-10 am.
I purchased a freshly brewed coffee with creamer and a flaky croissant. The place was abuzz with activity, so I took a number and waited for my order. Trendy music played while baristas filled cups with cold-brewed coffees and prepped fruit smoothies. Moka’s Coffee has perfected the cafe formula. Modern atmosphere + Delicious Menu Items = Must-Visit Café. I’ll certainly return for a Mile-High Sandwich for lunch sometime.
SculptureTour Salina encourages you to vote on your favorite sculpture using a ballot deposited into a box at mid-block pedestrian crosswalks. With so many incredible works on display, how do you pick only one? We loved “Butterfly Tree” by Reven Marie Swanson from Colorado. The engineering of the piece kept the butterflies balanced and moving, a design element that made it unique from the others.
All of the sculptures are available for purchase. The sculptures are replenished downtown as each one sells. However, some remain on exhibit like my personal favorite, “Off the Merry-Go-Round” by Jodie Bliss, which was purchased by Homewood Suites. To learn more about SculptureTour Salina and how to cast your vote, visit their 
The collection of fiber artists’ work continued throughout the gallery showcasing thread painting, beadwork, weaving, and quilting techniques. As a frequent museum-goer, I’m used to seeing paintings and drawings. “
We loved the variety of choices on Food Row. The hardest part was deciding what to eat thanks to so many delicious options. The smell of bbq permeated the air. The sizzling sound of paella drew onlookers. The line formed for Tex-Mex. In the end, I decided to order a Walking Taco. It is a snack-sized bag of Doritos filled with taco toppings that you eat with a fork! My boyfriend couldn’t resist ordering an Italian sausage served with peppers and onions. Honestly, this food court rivaled some of the best I’ve seen in quality and selection.
Visual arts are a focus of the festival. A portion of the festival is devoted to artists selling their work and demonstrating it. We enjoyed visiting with a landscape photographer at his vendor tent and talking about the many places he worked. Art installations were added on the festival grounds for people to enjoy. The festival features eight artisans and almost two dozen installations. It truly is an #EpicArtsParty.
The festival’s live music is astounding. At any given time, there were bands playing on various stages around the park. We walked between stages to enjoy the sounds of The Marcus Lewis Band, SunDub, and The Hooten Hallers. All of the bands were talented, but we enjoyed 
We could’ve stayed all day, but we had more of Salina to check out. Our experience at Smoky Hill River Festival was memorable and one that I look forward to repeating next year. Parking was a non-issue, the park’s trees provided ample shape, and the option to bring a cooler of canned drinks was a pleasant surprise. To plan your visit to next year’s festival, check their 
The family-owned restaurant is always bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the sports bar-like atmosphere. The in-house craft beers on tap include standards you would want to see plus specialty beers like Hatch Green Chili Cream Ale or my favorite, Watermelon Crawl.
During our visit, we quickly became friends with a brother and sister duo from the area. Whitty, fun, and super knowledgeable about Salina, we compared travel stories and talked about our love of craft beer. They told us about Blue Skye’s award-winning Bloody Mary bar and brunch menu. So, of course, we returned the next morning to try it. It was fun! The server brings you a glass of ice with a shot of vodka. Your task is to make craft your own Bloody Mary recipe using a variety of tomato-based juices, hot sauces, and add-ins. As you can see in the photo below, we had a blast using the skewers to make a bouquet of tasty treats.
I’d recommend putting Blue Skye at the top of your list of places to eat when in Salina. The locals are welcoming, and the menu exceeds your expectations. Insider Tip: Don’t forget to check out the hallway leading to the bathroom.
The place was voted by Google as a Top Rated Burger and Best Burger Joint in Kansas 2012 from USA Today. A Single Cozy is $1.29, Double $2.19, and multiple packs start with six burgers up to 36. They are so yummy, that people buy them frozen to go! We ordered a six-pack of burgers with a bag of chips and a soft drink to enjoy at an outdoor picnic table. Between bites, I noticed people eating in their cars, riding up to the stand on bikes, and newcomers devouring burgers for the first time. They’ll all return for more. It’s a rite of passage to eat at 
All in all, we had a fantastic time in Salina. If it’s been years since you’ve traveled to the area, it’s time for a return visit – so much has been updated! Should you ask yourself, “Where could we visit in Kansas that promises a good time?” Salina is the answer.
I loved walking around downtown Hays and imagining it as a lawless town. Many of the original buildings have been restored. The photo below shows the historic George Philip Hardware building, established in 1894, at 719 Main Street.
The 100-room hotel features a restaurant and bar, indoor pool, fitness room, and free parking. I was shocked at the size of my room. It was larger than some of my college apartments.
Hilton Garden Inn is one of those hotels where you look back at the sign as you leave and think, “I want to stay here again.” It’s modern, spacious, clean, and has many awesome amenities. A pet-friendly hotel, I feel good knowing that the next time I visit, I can bring my four-legged family member with me during my return trip to Hays.
The 
The museum’s paleontology area allows visitors to get an up-close view of animatronic dinosaurs, prehistoric animals, sea swimming creatures, and fish that lived in Kansas over 80 million years ago. It was a different world when the seas flooded North America. The museum’s exhibits give visitors a glimpse into the past.
A major draw of the museum is its collection of fossils found in the Great Plains, which largely exists because of the work of Charles H. Sternberg. He collected fossils in Kansas starting in 1867.
Because of their lab testing and research, rural farmers know how to improve their methods resulting in a better harvest or herd. From cattle nutrition to land management and plant pathology to entomology, the folks at the center work year-round to learn from nature. In fact, it was at the KSU Agricultural Research Center that many of the biggest contributions to the science of farming took place. Using ultrasound information at the center helped scientists learn more about beef marbling, which led to the USDA’s grading system for quality.
I chose a seat at the bar so I could have a clear view of the brewers at work behind the glass wall. My bartender was friendly and happy to provide a few beer samples until I eventually decided on a pint of the unfiltered Grapefruit Radler. Undecided between two lunch options, she persuaded me to order a local’s favorite, a Smothered Bierock covered in creamy cheese sauce with homemade chips. She also ensured my meal came with creamy bacon horseradish and sweet onion dip to eat with the chips. Lunch never tasted so good! And the beer? It was crisp and aromatic. I’d order it again. Maybe a growler of it.
Knowing that I didn’t have room left for dessert, I ordered the French Toast Brulèe anyway. The crisp exterior gave way to a pillowy center as my spoon cracked into it. Combined with vanilla bean ice cream and fresh whipped cream, it was beyond delicious.
I recommend stopping at Gella’s for lunch or dinner whenever you’re in Hays. The restaurant is large enough that it can easily accommodate groups. Menu prices were reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. If you drink craft beer, you can expect 12 taps, with two rotating regularly.
I had the pleasure of meeting Gina, the restaurant’s originator and recipe creator, during my visit. I was invited to accompany a veteran employee into the kitchen to meet her. As the door opened, I found myself dodging a busy cook holding a pot of hot pizza sauce. I maneuvered past trays of oven-fresh sausage links. There, around the corner, sat Gina. She was smiling back at me from her rocking chair, dressed to impress. She said she recognized my face, although we had never met, and quickly, I felt endeared to her.
