Updated October 2025
Could you eat ice cream daily? I’m a sucker for ice cream, often eating it after dinner several times a week, so it’s no surprise that I pull over for a cup or cone whenever I’m traveling.
The smell of freshly baked waffle cones. Chrome stools. A cooler filled with a variety of colored ice cream and gelato flavors. What’s not to love?
Discover Kansas ice cream and gelato shops serving unforgettable scoops from my list of favorite sweet spot, and all of them are locally owned and operated.
Coolest Ice Cream Shops in Kansas to Add to Your Road Trip Itinerary
Pace E Bene – Atchison
At Pace E Bene (503 Commercial Street), the family-run café is situated in the back of a Catholic-based bookstore, a hidden gem that serves coffee, baked goods, panini at lunchtime, and imported gelato.
Cozy up with ice cream in the lounge and enjoy it while reading a book or solving a puzzle.
CuppaYo – Andover
Save room for dessert at CuppaYo (626 S. Andover Road), where self-serve frozen yogurt is available in numerous flavors, and the toppings are nearly endless. To me, frozen yogurt is just as tasty as ice cream but with less fat.
CuppaYo’s topping stations include chunky bites of chocolate, cookies, and gummy candies, but for more health-conscious customers, you’ll also find fresh sliced fruit and nuts available.
Olde Mill Ice Cream Shop – Bonner Springs
Take your choice of over a dozen Blue Bell ice cream flavors at Olde Mill Ice Cream Shop (611 W. 2nd Street) A sucker for comfort food, I chose a cup of Blueberry Cobbler. They can also serve scoops of your favorite flavor inside a plain or flavored waffle cone.
If ice cream floats are more your thing, they’ve got you covered. Choose from one of eight flavors from the Stubborn Soda fountain. Open during evening hours, the dessert shop also serves customers milkshakes and ice cream sandwiches.
Cardinal Drug Store & Gifts – Chanute
Step back in time and sip on some nostalgia at Cardinal Drug Store & Gifts (103 E. Main Street), where the historic soda fountain is stocked with the best-tasting ice cream and fudge. There’s nothing like an old-fashioned ice cream float from a classic soda fountain—bubbly, creamy, and oh-so-dreamy.
My cherry vanilla ice cream soda was so yummy I closed my eyes upon first sip. Watch an Instagram reel of mine made by an employee.
Soul Sister Scoops – Courtland
A super cute ice cream shop, Soul Sisters Scoops (328 Main Street) was definitely worth pulling over. Not only do they serve Wisconsin ice cream, but you can order multiple flavors for a big waffle cone or cup.
The shop is connected to Soul Sisters Ceramics, where the owner hosts ceramic paint parties and the retail space is stocked with home decor goods. Located in a renovated gas station, Soul Sister Scoops is adorable.
Granny’s Chip Chocolate Ice Cream & Candy Shop – Frontenac
What if the key to longevity was to eat a bowl of ice cream before going to bed? The woman who inspired Granny’s Chip Chocolate Ice Cream & Candy Shop did just that and she lived to be 102 years old.
The Frontenac ice cream shop is a community hub six days a week, where families gather to enjoy premium ice cream available in nearly 50 flavors. The store stocks super premium ice cream made with 16 percent butterfat, which tastes rich and flavorful in every bite.
Go classic with a single or double scoop, blend your favorite into a thick, dreamy milkshake, or order an ice cream flight so you can sample four flavors in one go. Chocolate Fudge Brownie? Yes, please. Chocolate Chip? Of course.
Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop – Garden City
To visit Garden City without stopping at Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop (121 W. Grant Avenue) would be a crime. A Garden City original since 1925, a throwback menu showcasing 5-cent root beer, tin ceilings, and an old-fashioned soda fountain are nostalgic throwbacks.
Claim a booth or a counter barstool during lunch or dinner hours to order a made-to-order burger with fries and a thick chocolate malt or shake. I recommend sitting at the counter to see a view of the bustling kitchen staff.
Hunter Drug Soda Fountain – Greensburg
Be sure to visit the restored Hunter Drug Soda Fountain, located inside the Kiowa County Historical Museum (320 S. Main Street). It’s a great place to order a tasty Vanilla Coke or banana split. I nestled into a sunlit booth and enjoyed the view of the outdoor pond and landscaping.
Tell them you want to try the EF5 Challenge ($40). If you can eat 15 scoops of ice cream and 10 toppings in 30 minutes, you get your photo on the Wall of Fame.
Holton Mercantile – Holton
Holton Mercantile (415 New York Ave.) is a general store that carries everything from cards and seasonal decorations to kitchen tools and puzzles. They operate an old-fashioned soda fountain counter in the rear of the store.
The store often hosts an Ice Cream Bar Day during Second Saturday downtown shopping events. Choose from seven ice cream flavors and endless toppings.
Hildebrand Farms Dairy – Junction City
Hildebrand Farms Dairy (5210 Rucker Rd.) offers guided tours of its cattle farm and milk production facility, and every visitor is welcome to sample homemade soft serve ice cream available exclusively at the farm store.
An employee will serve vanilla ice cream in a cup, and you have a choice of crumbled cookies, nuts, or sprinkles for toppings.
Frost and Flour – Junction City
When you’re craving dessert after enjoying dining downtown, Frost and Flour (725 N. Washington St.) serve imported Bliss Artisan ice cream by the scoop and homemade baked goods. The sweet smell of freshly baked cookies (the size of small plates!) fills the space.
I was offered tastings of any ice cream and ultimately decided on Brown Sugar Maple in a small cup. The ice cream was creamy and rich in a cinnamon roll-like flavor.
Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream – Lindsborg
Considering all of the Kansas ice cream shops I’ve visited, Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream (125 N. Main Street) exceeds many of the in quality of homemade ice cream. Besides, the unique seasonal flavors keep me returning for more.
Indulge in a classic waffle cone treat or a single dip in a cup at the Swedish-themed shop or sit outdoors on the patio. Try the Lingonberry Vanilla ice cream.
Sweet Thang Cafe – Olathe
Opened in 2019, Sweet Thang Cafe (1088 W. Santa Fe Street) the dessert destination is incredibly popular with locals. The moment I walked in, I knew I was in the right place. “Welcome!” the staff exclaimed.
Ice cream, baked goods, and candy dominate the menu, and the place smells like freshly made waffle cones. I opted for a double scoop of Rocky Road ice cream, but seriously, you can’t go wrong no matter your menu choice. I recommend taking a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.
Dagney’s Ice Cream – Salina
Word on the street is that Dagney’s Ice Cream (105 E. Iron St.) serves some of the best tasting ice cream around.
With 29 flavors on the menu, I was determined to select the best one. I sampled the Maple Bacon (it was incredible!), but eventually settled on Rocky Road, a flavor recommended by a local.
Thick, chunky, and dense in flavor, it satisfied. Word to the wise! Order a smaller size than you’re craving. The ice cream is filling. If you love it, they sell to-go pints.
Bogey’s – Salina
After a trip to Salina, people often ask me if I stopped at Bogey’s (1417 S. 9th St.) for ice cream. It’s a Salina mainstay. The fast food restaurant serves over 100 different shake flavors, and is known for its chili cheese fries and burgers. My chocolate-vanilla twist ice cream cone hit the spot.
Bogey’s is a busy place. Consider dining outside on the patio where fewer people are seated. In a hurry? Order via the drive-thru window.
Cornerstone CoffeeHaus – Seneca
Cornerstone CoffeeHaus (431 Main Street) is an architectural gem. When shopping along Main Street, step inside the 1874 bank building, which is now part coffee shop, and part old-fashioned soda fountain.
Forget your cares as you sip a latté or enjoy an ice cream sundae or ice cream flight at the horseshoe counter, an original from Harsh Drug Store.
Pop’s Sweet Shop – Spring Hill
A day with ice cream is more delightful at Pop’s Sweet Shop (115 S. Main Street). The owners, originally from New York, opened an old-fashioned ice cream counter in historic Spring Hill to provide the community with a gathering place.
They serve Blue Bell Ice Cream by the scoop, in a malt, or as a shake, along with homemade fudge and organic cotton candy. Nana’s homemade Italian cannoli are a local favorite.
Gibson Health Mart Pharmacy – WaKeeney
The secret ingredient to WaKeeney’s charm? The people and an ice cream treat at Gibson Health Mart Pharmacy (125 N. Main St.), an old-fashioned soda fountain in business since 1892.
One of about forty authentic soda fountains still in operation in the state, Gibson’s includes seating for nine patrons. Thirsty? Flag down any employee who is ready to happily whip up an malt, shake, or soda drink for you.
Bird’s Creamery – Wamego
Located a short drive from Manhattan, the town of Wamego offers visitors multiple sweet surprises including Bird’s Creamery. Not only does it serve homemade ice cream, but the owner added scratch-made pizza to the menu.
The list of hard scoop ice cream flavors were hard to choose because they all sounded delicious. After the employee offered me a sample, I quickly decided on my first choice, Salted Vanilla Bean served in a Munchkin (small) cup. The names of the serving sizes are a reference to the town’s Wizard of Oz theme.
The classic ice cream flavor reminded me of the homemade ice cream my grandparents used to make the grandkids using the hand-cranked mixer.
I chatted with the owner, a friendly local who turned his hobby into a business. He’s passionate about offering locals and visitors quality ice cream and pizza. Run, don’t walk, to Bird’s Creamery for down-home delights.
Old Mill Tasty Shop – Wichita
Diners of all ages have enjoyed ice cream sundaes and authentic drinks at Old Mill Tasty Shop‘s (604 E. Douglas Avenue) old-fashioned soda counter since 1932. I’ve been visiting it since the early 1980s.
Take a step back in time and order one of the restaurant’s most popular desserts, an turtle sundae. Watch a consistent flow of customers arrive and listen to the shake machine whizz as you sit at the marble counter enjoying each bite of your sundae.
Frost – Wichita
For years, locals have loved stopping into Frost (3429 E. Douglas Avenue) for one-of-a-kind ice cream flavors and baked goods such as scratch-made cookies, brownies, and pie.
A great way to find out about their latest small-batch ice cream flavors is to monitor their Facebook page, which is where I learned about their Sweet Corn Ice Cream served for a limited time. I also recommend their fruit sorbet, which uses seasonal ingredients.
Papa’s Ice Cream & Treats – Wichita
Go to Papa’s Ice Cream & Treats (Two Locations) if you’re an ice cream lover who likes to add unique toppings and mix-in ingredients to sundaes or shakes.
Known as the Home of the Extreme Shake, I’d recommend bringing a fellow ice cream fan with you to help you finish a towering Cinnamon Crunch Love or Monster Cookie Mania, which is topped with a mountain of whipped cream and cookies with drizzle.
Of course, if you want a single dip cone or cup after a Coney Island hot dog lunch, the staff is happy to serve it.
Bonus Stops
If you’re traveling to Kansas City, Missouri, I highly recommend visiting the ever-popular Betty Rae’s Ice Cream. They also have locations in Nebraska and four in Northeast Kansas.
Additionally, stop in Newton at Prairy to pick up several pints of Kansas-made Salted Creamery Ice Cream. Once you try the Key Lime Pie, you may never be the same.
This list does not include every spot Kansas ice cream shop, but it’s a good reference for finding one to curb your cravings. I hope to add Sylas and Maddys in Lawrence to my next road trip agenda.
Consider also following other foodie trails I’ve created, including Kansas Coffee Shops and Mexican Restaurants.
Upon arrival, I walked the downstairs parlor and adjacent dining room, admiring the owner’s meticulous restoration of turn-of-the-century woodwork.
The dining room’s tablescape was beautifully set with an artful arrangement of seasonal plates, flatware, and decorations. The owner prides herself on updating the table decorations often.
Original stained glass windows drew my eye to an ascending staircase, where private guest rooms awaited – each one named after a Bible verse. My queen bedroom, including a twin bed and private bathroom, was painted lavender and decorated with Victorian decorative touches, including handkerchiefs and florals.
After a restful night’s sleep, I joined other guests in the dining room for breakfast. The meal started with juice and coffee before a Monte Cristo-style croissant breakfast sandwich served with homemade jam was served.
Overall, my overnight stay at 
PRO TIP: You can choose to have your meal delivered to your room for an extra fee.
Dressed in protective gear, we laughed as splattered paint was flicked with careless abandon – unlike any paint studio experience I had yet. The session took about 30 minutes, and afterward, I left with a cute gift for my five-year-old niece.
The family-owned paint studio also offers walk-in and reservable paint-from-a-design sessions like Boozy Art Club Paint Night. The large rooms are ideal for hosting kids’ birthdays, double date nights, or gal pal parties. Artists can bring their own snacks and drinks, including wine and beer.
The size of the zoo and its variety of wildlife exceeds one’s expectations. While you can 
If you arrive during the animals’ breakfast feeding time, you’ll see an endangered black rhino, a main wolf, and an Amur Leopard actively moving about the enclosures. A Sarus Crane’s loud calls competed for my attention while a mal Addax African Lion roared his morning welcome atop a rock.
For me, the most enjoyable part of visiting a zoo is watching the giraffes. One reticulated giraffe in particular didn’t seem to mind me watching it strip bark from branches for several minutes before it joined its giraffe family.
You can expect to see native and exotic animals, ranging from the smallest invertebrates to large mammals. The river otters were not outdoors during my visit, so I can’t wait to return to see them at play in the water.
Then, work together to figure out codes that reveal clues or unlock boxes with additional clues. The key to escaping the room before the one-hour time limit expires is to keep it simple.
My group escaped the clock with 52 seconds to spare inside Sunken Secrets, a deep-sea research submersible in peril. The two-room submarine was well-designed and kept our attention through each step until we successfully resurfaced.
Afterward, we signed our group’s names on the wall with our ending time and snapped a photo to mark the occasion.
Meander into the main gallery to uncover historical facts about Buffalo Jones, a man who settled on 160 acres of ranch land in the area who worked with the town’s founders to convince two railroads, the Atchison-Topeka and the Santa Fe, to stop in Garden City.
Additionally, the staff is ready to assist you in creating aromatic bath products or a room spritzer at the Blending Bar. After a few minutes inside the retail store, you naturally feel your shoulders relax, and with the owner’s guidance, you learn what herbals and essential oils best suit your needs.
I thoroughly enjoyed a 60-minute relaxation massage, which included red light therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Afterward, I felt less stressed and my mood lifted. My hope is that you make time for yourself as well.
My heart beat faster with excitement as I discovered item after item I wanted to purchase. Drink mixes, Kansas-made jarred products, lovely pillows, and jewelry with inspirational messaging. I left for home with a bag of goodies, and I suspect you will too.
If you’re unsure which scented body product to purchase, the owner will help you determine a signature scent. When in doubt, the most purchased soap fragrances are Black Raspberry Vanilla and Kansas Sunset. Each one smelled natural and not overly perfumey.
PRO TIP: Inquire about
In patriotic fashion, the courthouse lawn is also home to a Little Sisters of Liberty replica statue, one of over 200 like it across the United States. In 1950, the Boy Scouts of America local chapter installed it as part of a national crusade emphasizing liberty and freedom.
Across the street, an oversized rustic metal sculpture resembling a geometric buffalo stands at attention. Stop here for a quick photograph before exploring the rest of the downtown area’s sculptures.
PRO TIP: Garden City’s walkable historical home tour is worthy of consideration if you appreciate architecture. 
Look closely and you’ll see the stages of a butterfly’s life cycle. A local told me the city plans on adding an AI interactive component to the mural making it an engaging experience for those who stop to enjoy it.
Stop in to view current 
PRO TIP: Garden City organizes public works of art projects, and you can contribute to them, so be sure to view the gallery’s 
I love a carefully crafted cup of java (they use Kansas-made 
The cinnamon roll pancakes arrived stacked and covered with copious vanilla-flavored icing, which I’d recommend for diners with a sweet tooth.
Illuminated by sunshine from floor-to-ceiling windows facing the airport’s runway, the restaurant is also a go-to Sunday brunch destination. Seasonal menu items are highlighted on their 
Chomp chips while you peruse the six-page menu and listen to Mexican dance music over the speakers.
Whether you’re visiting Casa Mariachi for a lunch or dinner date or watching soccer while devouring a scrumptious meal, the festive vibe and menu selections deliver a party vibe.
Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop remains a hometown favorite. Regular customers are recognized by name, and locals stop by for to-go orders. Not many old-fashioned soda fountain counters remain in Kansas, and this one is well worth the visit.
The house salad was good, and while I enjoyed the balsamic dressing and crunchy lettuce, it left me wishing it had less cheese and more sliced vegetables. But it was okay because the star of the dinner was the baked ziti pasta served bubbling hot.
The cheese stretched with every sauce-coated bite, making it a rave-worthy meal. Regretfully, I was too full from my meal to enjoy cheesecake or a cannoli, but that’s just another reason to return.
The brewery uses a large, on-site production facility. Three flagship pours are served on tap, and the remaining nine taps are reserved for rotators. The bartender told me the brewery’s gluten-free Wicked West Cider is popular with regulars.
The evening of my visit, an acoustic original songwriter sang while newcomers milled about chatting with friends. I appreciate the brewery wide selection of beer types choosing best-selling El Compadre, a adjunct lager, and maltier Irish ale, Clurichaun.
The town ranks amongst one of the coolest towns in Kansas, and yet, its one of the most humble. It’s the kind of town, where after I arrive, I’m ready to check into my overnight lodging accommodations and excitedly start exploring Main Street.
The vacation rental is ideal for adult couples or a family who wants to unwind in comfortable accommodations. The owner felt inspired to bring life back to an old building, and she did an remarkable job maintaining its historic character while adding modern day amenities.
I chose the bedroom across from the dining room to bunk for the night, which was in close proximity to a full kitchen complete with a coffee station and laundry facilities. Blackout shades and a complimentary eye mask guaranteed a good night’s sleep.
Each room’s television included streaming Roku channels; however, it was the record player with a stack of vinyl that drew my attention.
I felt a sense of home at Merles Nest, which is a compliment to the owner who provided an upscale vacation rental experience in a beautiful space. I’m sure you’ll feel equally impressed with her attention to detail.
NOTE: This is an upstairs loft space, so guests must be comfortable carrying their bags up nearly 30 steps to the second floor. Shoes must be taken off and kept in the hallway prior to entry.
My hot Lavender Fog tea drink prepared tasted spot on as I chatted with locals about the historic building turned coffee house.
The location is a major draw for high school and college-aged adults, a hangout on Friday and Saturday evenings, where youth play billiards, games, and listen to music.
PRO TIP: View the upcoming 
It was easy to see why the coffee shop remains busy. My toffee nut coffee with a breakfast croissant sandwich was exceptional.
If you don’t prefer a breakfast sandwich, a case of scones, cinnamon rolls, and muffins will tempt your sweet tooth. At lunchtime, they serve a choice of salads, panini with chips, and chicken or tuna salad sandwiches.
I enjoyed toast and toppings with soft, homemade breads, fresh pesto, guacamole, and fig jam with a juice flight. The tables were adorned with stunning spring flowers from nearby farms 
Diners behind me exclaimed, “Oh my, this is pretty and the food is so good!” They’re right. Expect to be impressed with Eleveneleven Fresherie’s quality of ingredients and attentive service.
The lunch menu consists of a nine sandwich options made on wheat bread and served with chips and a pickle. Regular fountain drinks and coffee are available.
Also doubling as a pharmacy, Cardinal Drug Store and Gifts is a one-stop shopping destination for housewares and decorations. From greeting cards and children’s games to farmhouse decor and body products, they sell it all.
The store’s inventory was surprisingly on-trend. It’s the ideal place to bring a date for lunch followed by shopping.
Drooling started before the first bite. The burger was topped with a slice of brisket, sweet barbecue sauce, and fried mac-n-cheese bites sandwiched between a toasted bun.
Jazz music played as guests filled in the restaurant’s seating eager to enjoy a family dinner or a date night experience. From a backlit bar flanked by wine bottles, a server prepared my blended whiskey cocktail while I perused a meal featuring steak, grilled chicken, and pasta.
I chose the dinner special, Hot Honey Glazed Salmon served on a bed of rice with vegetables accompanied by a dinner salad. A larger portion than expected, the salmon filet was perfectly cooked and I was pleased with my selection.
The owner, who studied the culinary arts, recommended homemade cheesecake or peach cobbler for dessert. I consider myself a bit of a cobbler connoisseur, and this serving met my expectations for the traditional Southern dessert.
PRO TIP: Dine on Saturday night for the steak night special.
I was surprised to learn today’s shoppers are interested in lab-created diamonds, and the store carries a small selection.
Additionally, female shoppers will appreciate a selection of farmhouse decor, women’s clothing, and jewelry items. The store was buzzing with shoppers on a Friday afternoon, many of whom were interested in the seasonal decor table near the front of the store.
Every Kansan needs a custom cutting board packaged with a bouquet of sunflowers, right? Don’t leave without purchasing fine chocolates, which the owner sources from Emporia’s chocolatier 
Clothing racks included apparel for all sizes and you’ll find on-trend fashionable pieces on display amongst handbags, jewelry, and shoes.
Their inventory is affordable, including name brand items. I purchased the shirt pictured above for less than five dollars.
Additionally, shelves displayed new and like-new toys appropriate for various ages. A back corner of the store displayed dance wear.
Little Consignment is the ideal place to sift through racks to find cute clothing for the season for the littles in your life.
This is not your grandma’s makeup store. I discovered products I loved, including eye shadow in hues I don’t normally wear.
You’ll find brands such as Thymes and Spongellé amongst others in the retail area consisting of bath and body products, and a good amount of inventory is specifically for men. I purchased an luxury bar soap made by an Australian body products company.
Expect vibrant colors and bold patterns. Other merchandise includes home decor and pet supplies.
I wished I had grabbed a cart within ten minutes of shopping for Traeger® wood pellets, dog supplies, and gardening needs. My arms overflowed with items as I approached the register.
An official Stihl® dealer, they carry an extensive selection of tools and equipment for your outdoor projects.
Inertia Health and fitness may be open exclusively to members 24/7 for a cardio workout, but the public has access to reservable tanning beds, clothing retail, or to order a protein shake or loaded energy tea.
I couldn’t resist buying a gold frog wearing a crown to beautify a shelf in my home. The store is a garden lovers dream complete with do-it-yourself practical and beautifying supplies.
PRO TIP: Shop the back room for mega deals. Stop by during the Christmas season to see the store transformed into a winter wonderland.
The walls were adorned with children’s artwork curated from various schools in the area, which is a popular annual event. It was such fun to submit my vote for the People’s Choice overall winner of Youth Art Month.
View the gallery’s monthly exhibits via its 
The footage was used in 10 Hollywood feature films and their experiences contributed to 12 books, including “I Married Adventure.”
You’ll need at least an hour to consume the museum starting with a 10-minute History Channel documentary about the couple’s adventurous life and career. Peruse the Imperato West African Gallery before ascending the stairs pausing to reflect on the Sirige (African masks).
A visit to Chanute is not complete without taking a guided or self-guided tour of the museum, including its safari-themed gift shop.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip over the second floor gallery room detail the adventures of another courageous mountaineer, Elizabeth Le Blond. The Irish adventurer photographed glacial landscapes and is credited for shooting the first sports films. She climbed snowy and icy mountains wearing a dress and Victorian boots.
In addition to a vast collection of Lincoln, Dodge, Buick, and Pontiac restored models, the car museum also consists of automative signage, motorized scooters, and bicycles. Howard had a knack for purchasing pristine classic cars at auction, a hobby he continued for decades.
He would travel with his son as far as Florida and Texas to bring home a four-wheeled gem, and a few of his purchases are considered rare like his 1925 Cadillac Serial No. 1.
I’ve visited quite a few car shows and automotive museums, and Harold’s collection is grand. Gearheads will appreciate notable models, including a 1928 Dodge Brothers DA Six Phaeton, a Model A Touring Car, a 1940 Lincoln Zephryr, and “Tweetie,” a bright yellow Crosley HotShot Sports Car also known as America’s first postwar sports car.
The shiny chrome. Unique designs. Each car is a treasure. The public is invited to view the collection Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. or Friday 9 a.m.-Noon. Call (620) 902-5100 to make an appointment to tour the museum on Mondays.
PRO TIP: Tour the hallway to garner appreciate for local sports legends. Don’t forget to look up before existing the museum or you’ll miss a 1896 glider reproduction of Octave Chanute’s winged aircraft.
Also the site of 
If escaping to nature is your vibe, leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind and reserve the cottage 
Disc golfers will appreciate Highland Park’s course, and the outdoor lovers shouldn’t skip Central Park or Cross Park, each offering families picnic-worthy spaces and playground equipment.
View park locations and hiking/biking trails 
The beautifully restored two-level auditorium seats over 1,200 people. View the 
The library hosts 
As I pulled away from Chanute, I looked in the rearview mirror with a smile. The charming town is the ideal place to spend a getaway uncovering the town’s history, shopping, dining, or exploring the outdoors.
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.
As you walk upon the building’s original wood floors, explore a makeshift saloon, 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.-2:00 pm and 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturdays. To guaranteed a tour, call (785) 294-6655 to schedule an appointment.
The 
The museum is small, but well organized and includes fire station relics unique to its location.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss viewing the a model buildings 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. A self-guided walking tour requires at least 30 minutes, but it will take longer if you’re like me and want to take photos of the architecture while taking your time.
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 so impressed with the accommodations that I immediately called home to tell others about it. 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 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 increased on Main Street, I felt sad knowing that I had to check out of my Airbnb and say goodbye to Seneca.
Located in Kiowa County, less than a two hours drive from Wichita, Greensburg is a small town reimagined. Rebuilt with sustainability in mind, many of its homes and buildings put the “green” in Greensburg thanks to water-saving features, alternative energy, and earth-friendly design.
Just as I contemplated if I wanted to venture into the well, a busload of gleeful schoolchildren arrived and eagerly walked to the bottom. I’m scared of enclosed spaces and heights, so I chose to stay on the ground floor. The American Water Landmark is truly a sight, and even if you don’t want to walk down into it, seeing it first-hand is worthwhile.
If you visit 
The grounds of the museum include a playground area for kids and free bikes you can borrow to tour the town. The Fleener Family Memorial on display outdoors honors those who perished in the tornado.
PRO TIP: Before visiting the museum, view its hours and admission rates 
Stop four on the tour gave me pause. All that remains of a church that once stood there and later housed Fran’s Antiques Shops is a set of stairs. Red bricks, stairs, and a small pile of rubble.
Other stops worth noting on the bike tour included Starlight Public Art Park and Main Street in the downtown corridor. The park is home to one-of-a-kind sculptures. Nearby native plants and Russian Sage decorate Main Street in concrete planters watered by rainwater captured in underground cisterns.
The summer matinee was a popular choice. When not screening films. the theatre is used by the high school and area groups as a performing arts space.
Open six days a week for dine-in or drive-up orders, the restaurant is a local favorite. They show up for a hearty meal or select steaks or sausage from the refrigerated case to grill at home.
PRO TIP: You need to leave room for dessert. Kook’s is where I rediscovered my love of pie. Regina knows how to make them better than anyone. She had me taste every pie and cake in the refrigerated case! They tasted divine.
Catherine’s Massage & Bodywork (101 S. Main, Suite 206) instantly transports you to a place of zen. The owner, a certified kinesiologist and massage therapist welcomes customers needing to improve their health. The retail space carries an abundance of personal care products, jewelry, and gift items. Don’t forget to check out the clearance shelf for marked-down deals.
PRO TIP: Plan your visit when the majority of downtown shops are open Thursday-Saturday. Check each of the links above. I can’t wait to return to visit a few stores that were closed, including
Inside, visitors can peruse the gallery’s artwork at no charge; however, donations are gladly accepted. During my visit, I fell in love with the work of Kansas artist/farmer 
After my indoor gallery tour, I walked the property and back buildings outside. The contents were left untouched since his death in 2017.
The man collected 6,000+ coffee cups. Why? No reason. His work glove still sits on the ground near the building’s entrance. Welding tools, an old fan, and racks with splattered paint block the entrance. You simply have to walk the property, see his artwork, and imagine the artist welding metal together.
Liggett’s artwork has to be seen in person to appreciate it. Like the artist, it is unique, bold, and strikingly curious.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barn was built in 1912. It stands 50’ tall and 70’ in diameter. The structure has fourteen hours stalls on a perimeter. The Fromme family were homesteaders who farmed the land and owned prize-winning horses.
You can expect comfortable beds, an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, a complimentary hot breakfast, and free Wi-Fi with access to a business workspace. The price per night seems reasonable given the amenities.
A small town’s pride is undeniable. You rarely get to see it on permanent display, so I appreciate museums that include relics from the past that pay homage to school spirit. I imagine it wasn’t easy to curate items for the display after the tornado destroyed the town, but they managed to assemble a respectable collection.
Be sure to visit the restored 
PRO TIP: A table near the entrance houses new non-fiction books, and a good-sized library area is devoted to children’s books. Ask about upcoming events designed for kids, like the weekly craft session and reading programs.
The restaurant is furnished with farm-themed decor. Guests enter under a massive metal windmill covered in lights, and framed prints of horses cover the walls. Country music plays in the background. Light fixtures made of minnow buckets and tractor sets hang overhead.
One step inside the building, and you immediately realize its design is unlike any school building you’ve seen before. The ceiling and walls are made from reclaimed wood from Southeast Kansas barns, which absorb sound. Natural light floods into every hallway, gymnasium, and classroom. In 2013, they added a new addition to the school outfitted with a limestone exterior and cypress wood salvaged from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
Designed to be a Smart building, the HVAC system is state-of-the-art. Each classroom draws fresh air, which is recirculated outside. Underground geothermal wells maximize energy consumption. The same wells provide renewable energy to many of the town’s community buildings.
Lockers made from recycled plastic line the hallways for the students in the upper grades. School children sit in classrooms outfitted with top-notch technology, looking out of windows to landscape spaces. Outdoors, rainwater is collected on the rooftop and stored in four cisterns. Drought-resistant native grasses dot the open spaces.
If you get the opportunity to tour the
Greensburg is a town that will surprise you. The community’s determination to rebuild itself as a thriving community and now tourism destination is impressive. I encourage you to book an overnight stay or take a day trip from Wichita to experience its attractions first-hand.
It may have been a sweltering 99-degree summer day in Kansas, but it certainly conjured up thoughts of winter. I thought, “Why does this town love Christmas so much?”
Since 1950, the town has lived up to its nickname when local businessmen displayed a 35′ Christmas tree covered in 3,000 lights in the center of town. The tree and display are lit the Saturday after Thanksgiving and stay illuminated until New Year’s Day.
Some of the decorations stay up the entire year along Main Street and inside its businesses. How many trees will you spot around town?
I was craving a hearty and comforting meal. I ordered the Breakfast Plate of eggs, potatoes, and toast along with a freshly brewed coffee. I could hear the cook, who I assumed was the owner, whistling while she prepared meals in the kitchen.
It’s meticulously restored, spacious, thoughtfully decorated, and clean. It has all of the comforts of home. Five beds and three bathrooms provide roomy accommodations for a family visiting the area.
The museum’s textiles date from the early 1800s-1970s. Many of the museum’s items were donated by families in the area. Can you imagine walking the streets of WaKeeney and seeing women wearing dresses like the ones below as they headed off to church or a formal occasion?
A newer addition to the Trego County Historical Museum includes a large mural depicting the life of an earlier time. Governor John P. St. John signed a proclamation to organize the county on June 21, 1879. What do you notice about the mural below that tells the story of the county?
One exhibit that the museum is continuously working hard to build is the Trego County Honor Roll that features names of residents who have served in the military. I felt a sense of patriotism as I read about the soldiers who wore the uniforms on display. The collection dates back to World War I. The artifacts in the case situated left of the honor roll wall are phenomenal.
Several tiny towns in Trego County eventually combined into one school district. The one-room schoolhouse pictured below is available for visitors to enjoy with access provided by museum employees. It was used from 1910 to the early 1960s.
PRO TIP: Start your self-guided tour by learning more about the town and its founders. WaKeeney was named after Albert Warren and James Keeney who dreamed of a city with 80′ wide brick streets. They got their wish.
PRO TIP: Stop by The Studio 128 (128 N. Main) to ask for an address directory to help you locate all of the trees on the tour. Like me, you may simply stumble upon them as you walk around the main square of WaKeeney. I spotted the tree below in front of my lodging accommodations at 1909 Cottage House.
Visit the tasting room to enjoy the winery’s long list of varieties, order a wine flight or ask about the Wine of the Week. A fan of dry wine, Kirk poured several varieties for me to try but it was a dry red, Noiret, that was by far my favorite selection. I’d also recommend sampling Norton and Vidal Blanc. Bottles of wine and gourmet chocolate are available for sale.
A popular venue for hosting weddings, receptions, and private parties, the barn below is available for rental. A nearby patio attached to the tasting room provides outdoor seating. The winery and event spaces stay consistently busy, but they always welcome wine lovers who show up to the tasting room.
PRO TIP: Ask for a guided tour to fully appreciate the winery. Visitors can schedule an informative tour by appointment.
The WaKeeney Water Park sits adjacent to a manicured city park – one of four in town. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a covered picnic inside a pavilion or play a game of disc golf, WaKeeney’s city parks have something for everyone to enjoy at their pace.
My time in WaKeeney seemed to fly by preventing me from visiting several more places that I look forward to experiencing on my next visit to town. I would love to tour 
It truly is a quintessential American town. I will always have fond memories of my stay in WaKeeney.
