Disclosure: Visit Wichita sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are mine.
Wichita, Kansas, is an ever-changing city where innovation and Midwestern charm meet in the Heart of the Country. It’s the destination you’ll wish you had visited sooner for its welcoming atmosphere and a host of world-class attractions to explore.
These experiences represent Wichita’s essence, from attractions and dining to shopping and historic sites. Add five unforgettable experiences to your travel itinerary, and consider this an invitation to a city certain to exceed your expectations.
Top 5 Things To Do In Wichita Before You Die
Feel the Power of Place at The Keeper of the Plains
Locals will agree that the most iconic landmark in Wichita that visitors should view firsthand is the Keeper of the Plains. Situated at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers, the 44-foot-tall Corten steel sculpture, designed by Blackbear Bosin, stands overlooking the downtown skyline. After dark, four cauldrons ignite at its base, creating a mesmerizing sight.
The celebration of Wichita’s rich Native American history continues with the Keepers on Parade, which are miniature replicas of the Keeper of the Plains placed throughout the city. Each one is hand-painted by a local artist.
Savor Farm-to-Table Flavor at Public
Known as a city with a robust dining scene, culinary adventurers are fortunate to have more than 1,200 restaurants to choose from, ranging from casual fare to fine dining. Public, located underground in historic Old Town, serves chef-prepared meals using locally sourced, in-season ingredients from area farms.
Dine under mason jar light fixtures surrounded by whimsical antiques, savoring appetizers like the Wichita Wings or Prairie Bison Slides. For the main course, Brisket Tacos or the Spicy Fried Chicken are solid choices, and pizza lovers will delight in the Bassano topped with wood-smoked chicken.
Stick around after dark for live music under the stars at The Brickyard, the eatery’s open-air patio voted the best one in the city.
Bring Home an Artisan Gift from The Workroom
If you’re seeking a unique shopping experience, The Workroom is a must-shop location. The two-story boutique houses more than 100 local makers’ creations, including the largest collection of Wichita swag in one place. It’s not another retail shop. It’s an award-winning destination.
Located inside a historic building that was the Carey Hotel, where hatchet-wielding prohibitionist Carry Nation destroyed the bar in 1911, patrons can sip and savor a cocktail or espresso drink at The Workroom’s Bubbles Champagne Bar. Outside, don’t leave without striking a pose with Nation’s statue.
Step Into The Past at the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
Of the city’s visit-worthy museums, Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum is a go-to if you want to know Wichita’s story, from discovery to present day. The building, constructed as Wichita’s first City Hall in 1892, houses 80,000-plus artifacts.
Immerse yourself in the Wichita experience by learning about the heritage of the Wichita Indians who gave the city its name. Tour a replica Victorian home, watch a movie about aviation history, and admire the electric guitar that made its debut in Wichita. Afterward, take in the tranquility of Heritage Square Park beyond the museum’s doors.
Sip Craft Cocktails in Secret at Dockum
A hidden lounge awaits discovery at Dockum, an underground speakeasy at The Ambassador Hotel Wichita. Dim lighting and jazz music create an intimate, tucked-away atmosphere for sipping libations.
In 1899, Harry Dockum opened downtown drugstores, including one in the same building. Bartenders, also referred to as pharmacists, meticulously prepare small-batch cocktails using house-made bitters and fresh-squeezed juices. The Smoking Gun, a rye whiskey signature drink, emits earthy aromatics during its presentation.
To enter, follow the pharmacy signs to the hotel’s basement and knock on the door at your reservation time.
Bonus Stop: Soar Through Time at the Kansas Aviation Museum
Wichita is regarded as the Air Capital of the World, a title bestowed in 1925 for its legacy as the birthplace of Travel Air Manufacturing, founded by Clyde Cessna, Walter Beech, and Lloyd Stearman.
Aviation companies Cessna, Beechcraft, Learjet, and Stearman put Wichita on the map, and its central location made it the ideal location for a cross-country airport, Wichita Municipal Airport, now the Kansas Aviation Museum. Take note of its restored 1930s Art Deco ceiling and original terrazzo tile while appreciating indoor exhibits showcasing vintage aircraft and the Women of Aviation.
Ascend the Control Tower for a bird’s eye view of the tarmac where 600 flights took off and landed during its heyday.
Take a deep dive into Wichita by reviewing my books, 100 Things To Do In Wichita Before You Die and Secret Wichita: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure. A native, I’m considered a go-to expert on the city’s many things to do and see.
As I devoured a chocolate cake donut and a melt-in-your-mouth glazed donut, customers came and went with brown bags filled with tasty early morning treats. A little boy stood on his tip toes while excitedly pointing at chocolate Long John while his grandmother looked on.
I noticed the bakery also sells a variety of muffins, turnovers, and fruit and cheese croissants. Coffee is available for $2.00. (The owner does not sell gluten-free donuts, but an employee told me she is developing the recipe.)
I was warmly greeted by a college-aged employee as Ed Sheeran played over the speaker in the background. I chose a house roast coffee and the Breakfast Croissant sandwich prepared with scambled eggs, diced onion, and bell pepper. The spread, a pepper fruit jam, added sweetness.
Diners can order from their sandwich menu all day, and I whole-heartedly recommend the Kettle Chicken on Ciabatta served with a side of your choice. I expected chunk chicken but the panini-pressed sandwich came with sliced deli meat, bacon, cheese, and fresh spring mix greens, which I appreciate.
PRO TIP: The Wi-Fi password is listed near the pick-up counter. Extra seating is available behind the cafe on the patio.
Most people seem to use the drive-thru window, but I preferred eating breakfast inside while reading a magazine. Located near the community college’s stadium, it’s a convenient place to pick up a flavored Lotus Energy Drink before or after a game.
The menu features pages of burgers, comfort classics like ribeye or country fried steak dinners. My merlot mushroom cheeseburger was dripping with cheese served with a choice of side. I order the sweet potato fries to dip into homemade honey mustard sauce, a combo flavor bomb. The Happiness Burger and Philly Burger are also solid choices.
I usually choose a House Speciality menu selection like General Tso’s Chicken, but you can’t go wrong with Mongolian Beef prepared with tender steak and served with signature sliced potatoes.
When I noted their location parked at Walnut River Brewing Company, I showed up early to order the Blarney Fries served smothered in smoked corned beef, melted cheese, and sour cream. Their loaded fries are decadent shareable meal.
I returned to the taproom to grab as seat at the recycled wood bar for a flight of beer, and like always, I was more than happy with their flagship beers and rotators. Read more about my love of the brewing dating back to 2020 in this earlier 
The small-batch distillery serves tastings for $20 per person (no cocktails) Thursday-Saturday. I recommend the Barn Burner Cinnamon Rum or the Dodgy Fox six-year bourbon.
Expect single-batch barrel bourbon whiskey, bourbon, agave spirit, run and vodka. If you’re not charged a fee for your tasting experience, consider purchasing a bottle.
From aromatic candles and whole-bean coffee to live plants and seasonal displays, they carry it all. Don’t miss the discount plant table positioned in the rear of the store, accessible via the back door.
The first floor women’s clothing racks are organized by size and color, with handbags displayed nearby. Upstairs, shoppers will discover men’s casual and formal attire, children’s clothing, and a significant inventory of pre-owned and never-worn wedding dresses.
The store includes the collectibles of 50 vendors displayed throughout the store by theme. Unlike antique stores that carry mostly glassware or dishes, Antique Alley has something for every kind of shopper, ranging from old lanterns and fishing equipment to framed artwork and seasonal decorations.
Voted Best Antique Store by the Butler County Times-Gazette readers, it is open four days a week, and the inventory is often refreshed.
Owner Denise Wick is a talented, self-taught artist known for her jewelry creations, which incorporate stones and beads, and her clothing pieces are considered collectible, wearable art.
Catering to women’s fashion, the store also sells a few brands, such as plant-based Zum® laundry and body products.
From antiques to oddities, the store’s eclectic selection features a diverse range of items, curated by five booth vendors. I spotted a few collectibles, but the majority of the inventory on the day of my visit consisted of a diverse array of household items, similar to what you might find at a garage sale.
The back of the store is primarily for fiber arts creatives seeking hand-dyed yarn. Knitters will feel right at home relaxing on the couch, chatting with other creatives while brainstorming a new project.
Open Monday-Friday, the reader’s hangout includes a vault filled with El Dorado historical documents.
The nursery carries an impressive collection of succulent plants. Open seven days a week, the store also posts to a 
PRO TIP: Many of the sculptures are easily viewable by walking downtown, but don’t miss iconic creations on display at the historic train depot (430 N. Main Street) as well.
Located the Greetings from El Dorado mural at Central Avenue and Main Street. A new addition, Brickmob’s mural at 
Free to explore (donations appreciated), the exhibits are both permanent and temporary.
Admire cowboy fine art by Frederic Remington, Bill Walton, and Milo West upstairs, or look for the first and second floors’ exhibits showcasing a variety of artists’ styles.
Over the years, local oil companies and the 
PRO TIP: Don’t leave without taking a photo at the stadium’s baseball-themed mural.
I recommend viewing the explanatory video before perusing the room showcasing over one hundred years of oil equipment. Although it wasn’t yet open for the spring season, I’m told the museum’s grounds, featuring 23 replica buildings and oil drilling rigs, is worth the price of admission.
After the oil lease of 1918, multiple refineries operated throughout the county. Today, 
If you listen closely, you’ll hear the sound of an Aeolian harp’s changing notes as the wind passes over it.
A replica Statue of Liberty sits on the grounds, an installation by the Strengthen the Arm of Liberty campaign by the Boy Scouts of America in 1950.
Built in 1918, the red brick building resembles late 19th and 20th-century Mission/Spanish Colonial Revival design. Don’t miss the numerous statues installed on the grounds, including the town’s second Statue of Liberty replica and a 9/11 memorial.
An archery range, a BMX trail, playgrounds, and picnic areas are near 
You’ll have access to 
PRO TIP: Don’t own a boat? Rent one at the marina. Pack water shoes and swimsuits to enjoy two designated 
Taking advantage of the Wi-Fi, I kicked back while watching a movie after the sun set. The bed was firm but quite comfortable.
PRO TIP: Bring earplugs if your room is located near the ice machine.
I’m confident you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during your overnight stay in El Dorado, Kansas, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, award-worthy art, unique shopping, or rave-worthy dining.
Built in the 1900, the bungalow home’s interior design mimicked the home’s historic character. During the evening, I streamed a movie from the living-room’s television Roku streaming service and kicked back and enjoyed the free high-speed WiFi.
The primary bedroom includes a queen bed with a new, firm mattress. A shared full bathroom connects to a second bedroom featuring two single beds. I appreciated that the host provided guest toiletries as well. I didn’t want for anything during my stay.
Adjacent to the dining room, a full kitchen also includes a bonus coffee station complete with Keurig pods and snacks. A refrigerator was stocked with complimentary drinks, making me feel right at home.
PRO TIP: Lounge with Fido outdoors. The pet-friendly home includes an astroturf lounge space with a small fenced backyard illuminated by string lights at night.
While I love to indulge in sweet waffles, I also appreciate their savory waffle with sausage gravy. The waffle options are ever-changing, but you’re guaranteed to find sweet and savory options with creative toppings.
I needed a sidekick to go with my breakfast waffles. I ordered a Dirty Chai Tea Latté. It arrived to my table in a mug so large that I had to use two hands just to sip my tea. Norm’s serves locally-sourced espresso and specialty coffee drinks.
The coffee bar is also well-liked by locals. You will always find a few people in line or waiting for their to-go coffee orders. The service is swift, so you never wait long.
As I savored each bite of my scrambled egg with sauteéd vegetables breakfast bowl, a group of locals chatted over coffee at a nearby table. The sizzling sound from a flattop grill and the clamoring of the cook’s metal spatula hummed as a steady order of meals was prepared.
PRO TIP: Cash or check only. An ATM is available within walking distance.
My sandwich’s exterior was perfectly crusty and the cheese was melted just the right amount. The chicken and rice soup was a solid choice.
Located one block off of Main Street, the restaurant is a must-stop when in Newton. Not only does it have a spacious patio for alfresco dining, but the interior setting is uber cool. It was you’re stepping inside a retro garage complete with road signs, concrete floors, and exposed brick walls.
Known for their delicious wood-fired pizza, I asked an employee and a local waiting in line which one of the signature pies I should order. I chose the Graffiti, a 1o” pizza topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, onion, peppers, and black olives.
Back Alley Pizza also prepares salads, toasted subs, and cannolis for dessert. They keep the menu choices simple allowing diners to choose from 11 signature pizzas or to customize their own.
Given the choice of protein options, I selected ground beef, steak, and carnitas street tacos served with rice and beans. The steak had the best flavor, the ground beef satisfied, although the carnitas was served a bit dry. I added homemade green verde salsa to all of them for full flavor.
After sampling a few dry white and red varieties, Kansas Icon made with 100 percent Chambourcin grapes with a hint of oak and cherry was by far my preferred wine.
PRO TIP: The Barrel Room Saturday is open from 12pm-5 pm or guests can reserve private in-depth wine tasting experiences online. Bring-your-own food is welcome.
Shoppers are greeted with the same warm smile and “How can I help you?” Just as the store’s entrance reads, you can expect to be treated just as they would want to be treated with kindness.
PRO TIP: Look for a small section of free books. Bring cash. Credit cards are not accepted.
The store’s shelves are neatly stocked with rows of specialty foods. The refrigerator cases keep locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce chilled. The smoothie bar is ready to serve customers.
They offer options for buying in bulk in multiple stations around the store. I recommend you bring your own container to purchase grains and spices. Top off a growler with fresh Tea-biotics kombucha. Fill a plastic jug with liquid soap.
I purchased most delicious ice cream that I’ve tasted in a long time. Made in Newton, Salted Creamery Ice Cream comes in a variety of flavors sold by the pint. I took home Berry Cheesecake and Key Lime Pie.
The store continues to expand its inventory, which includes outdoor gear, wellness products, and children’s toys.
I love to support a locally owned store while buying globally sourced products for fresh pan dulce pastries or hot sauces to add to a home-cooked recipe.
Since 2015, the store is operated as a non-profit with the hope of connecting people with the resources they need. I spotted books and supplies for every age. Parents with children in tow will appreciate the kids’ section devoted to their reading needs.
If you’re seeking a journal for devotionals or an inspirational book of quotes, Faith & Life carries a large inventory of gifts.
The second-generation family run meat shop regularly rotates the meat case’s offerings, but you can alway count on homemade sausage and steak cuts available for purchase. They carry Kansas-made brands, including edro Lopez Mexican food products, Grandma Hoerner’s mustard, Jelly Lady fruit spreads, and Toritilleria Los III Potrillos flour tortillas. Service is friendly and welcoming.
PRO TIP: Shop on Wednesday for bierocks and cream puffs or Thursday for breakfast beirocks.
The quaint store includes several racks of trending shirts, bottoms, and dresses at reasonable prices. A fitting room is available to try on outfits.
The customer service was genuine and helpful during my visit. Employees, who are experience quilters, are eager to swap project stories or assist shoppers of all quilting experience levels.
PRO TIP: The quilt store is located on the 
The building, which was once a Pepsi™ warehouse, is filled to the highest corners of the ceilings with vintage collectibles, ranging from farm tools to furniture. The newest addition to the store includes a refreshment counter serving drinks and baked goods.
PRO TIP: Follow 
I was impressed to see well-organized clothing racks full of brand named shirts and pants in new or slightly used condition. A woman’s wool v-nick sweater by Express was priced as low as five dollars. A display at the front of the store displays seasonal decoration and wearables.
From retro drinking glasses to reminders of your childhood like toys and lunchboxes, you’ll find something to bring home.
If you love the challenge of looking high and low for the ultimate find, spend at least a half hour perusing countless vendors’ booths.
As I walked from room to room, I spotted depression glass, collector coins, pottery, jewelry, furniture, and signage. The owner has expanded the store over the years and recently added more space with booths.
Some of the oversized vibrant paintings extend the full length of buildings in full view of passersby while others are tucked-away gems situated along alleyways.
A trip to Newton isn’t complete without taking a photo in front of the massive flower mural at 100 block of E 6th Street.
Newton is also home to a couple of public art installations. You must see 
One of the oldest and most intriguing art installations in Newton is 
I referred to the 
He was instrumental in the Mennonite migration to the area and he single-handedly brought Turkey Red hard winter wheat to the area and made it a staple crop. Have you heard Kansas referred to as the Breadbasket of the World? We can thank Warkentin for helping to make that happen.
Warkentin and his wife, Wilhelmina, and their two children moved into the Queen Ann-Style mansion in 1888. Now, it is a museum that offers tours by appointment January-March and on weekends depending on the time of year.
The Warkentin’s spared no expense when designing their home down to the smallest details. I was enamored by the door’s metal finishes, the changing wood floors from room to room, the expansive size of the bedrooms, and the imported furnishings.
Visiting the home allows everyday people to get a glimpse of what luxury living looked like during a time when rural Kansas was just beginning to prosper. I recommend taking a moment to enjoy the view from the home’s wrap-around porch. To view the museums hours and plan a visit, visit their Facebook page 
“Immigrant People” is an exhibit that documents how Mennonites packed their belongings and traveled by rail or wagon and eventually by steam-powered ships to America. Later as homesteaders, they took root in the open prairie in what is now Newton. While some had money, most were poor yet hopeful for the future.
I appreciated the Historic Farmstead and Gardens, which are open to tour with a museum employee. The outdoor buildings were built in 1875 and 1886 and were moved to their current site.
Fantastic 
To plan a trip to Kaufmann Museum and learn more about their current and upcoming exhibits, visit their 
The museum, which is located inside a stunning Carnegie Library building, is free to visit although donations are welcome. Don’t forget to sign the guest book.
If you’re already visiting Kauffman Museum, take a walk outside the building through the wooded tree line to find one of the markers “The Story of Land and People.”
Referred to as the Trail Between Two Cities, one can also bike the Bethel College path system. To view all of the trails in the area, visit this All Trails 
It includes a wheelchair ramp, communication board and noise-making, puzzle-like stations for interactive play.
Take a break after the front nine holes to enjoy a grab-and-go meal at Caboose 305 Café before finishing a round.
After reserving a lane, head the 
I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my love of Newton. It’s a charming town within a short drive from Wichita that offers visitors plenty to do and see.
Have you traveled to the area already? I’d love to hear about the sites you added to your trip in the comments below.
Established in 1974, the campus museum continues to wow each time I visit. After perusing its second-floor galleries, I highly recommend taking a walk on campus to discover 86 permanent works displayed in the Martin H. Bush Sculpture Collection.
PRO TIP: Cut costs by ordering the sandwich only with curly fries for $4.49.
Today, 
PRO TIP: Stop to appreciate one of several Keepers on Parade, small scale versions of the city’s iconic sculpture, Keeper of the Plains. In the Historic Delano District, Credit Union of America and Hutton Construction display a Keeper on Parade.
PRO TIP: Find choice parking at
Each meal is prepared to order using fresh ingredients, and if you ask me, they serve the creamiest, most delicious hummus in town. It’s consistent food quality and service is why I also included it in a blog post about the city’s thriving 
We watched feats of bravery as each pilot pushed their aircraft to the limit overhead. The show boss called the action to the backdrop of high-energy music choreographed with each pilot’s show.
The crowd engaged with applause and often jumped out of their seats to examine the action on the ground before takeoff.
Our seats, positioned directly behind the guide rope, gave us unobstructed close-up views, which you don’t often get at big city airshows. The Saturday and Sunday daytime shows were spectacular. Unfortunately, due to rain, we didn’t watch the Twilight Airshow.
A proud Wichitan, I especially love witnessing people admire the airworthy 
A DTWA helicopter whizzed overhead, providing non-stop rides over the airport and the surrounding area. Attendees needing speed fastened their seat beats for a Drive Experience with Precision Exotics racing down the tarmac.
At the DreamBig Entertainment experiences, airshow attendees paid a small fee to climb into a stationary F-18 or F/A 18 cockpit for a photo opportunity.
The presence of these remarkable aircraft is fitting, given that Great Bend Army Field was a United States Air Force base. Today, it operates as Great Bend Municipal Airport, the same airport I took my first flight at as a second grader.
Constructed in the 1940s, the installation honors pilots trained to fly the Superfortress bombers and the B-29’s support staff.
PRO TIP: Bring a lawn chair to position it where you’d prefer to watch the show. Keep in mind some vendors only accept cash. Parking is free.
I ordered a single Build Your Own Burger with cheddar cheese and delicious homemade potato chips. The Philly sandwich arrived stuffed with sauteéd mushrooms, peppers, and onions with melted Swiss cheese on a hoagie roll.
PRO TIP: Order your meal when you put in your drink order to accommodate a busy dining room. Prepare to spend more if you order side sauces like au jus or ranch dressing.
The well-designed restaurant’s dining room transports you to Mexico, and the bar area, complete with televisions, is the ideal place to watch the game.
I devoured a traditional chicken and chorizo entreé with savory beans, rice, and warm tortillas. After a visit to the Salsa Bar, I topped each bite with a creamy avocado salsa for added heat.
If you love enchiladas or burritos, you have a variety to choose from, and the steak burrito covered with white queso is worth ordering.
PRO TIP: Visit the restaurant on Taco Tuesday for $2 tacos with your choice of six meats.
The smell of carne asada permeated the air as we ordered street tacos and burritos for an early lunch. Sitting at one of a few booths, we sipped bottled drinks, watching as people arrived to pick up to-go orders.
The food was crave-worthy. Mary’s Kitchen deserves its stellar online reviews.
The cafe is the go-to place for local coffee groups who chat about the day’s news amongst friends. The barista busily prepares steaming hot coffee and tea drinks while the kitchen staff cooks morning meals.
My bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast pizza served on crispy thin crust was some of the best I’ve eaten, and I happily requested a to-go container for leftovers. It tastes better than Casey’s breakfast pizza.
I’ve drank craft beer at over 30 Kansas breweries, and this one is easily one of my favorites for its beer quality and selection. The staff, who took time to get to know us, was friendly and attentive.
We loved our experience so much on Friday night that we returned to celebrate Oktoberfest on Saturday, which included a laugh-inducing stein-holding competition. (If you don’t drink beer, Dry Lake Brewing serves seltzers and signature cocktails and can make just about any drink from its full bar.)
PRO TIP: Lazy Bacon BBQ makes regular appearances in Great Bend. Check its 
The store carries brands including Pendleton, Liverpool, and Wrangler. If you’re in a rush to find a comfortable pair of jeans or shirt for a last-minute date night, you’ll find it here.
Aside from shoes, leather handbags, and hats, their inventory of women’s jewelry impressed me. Ask to try on a turquoise necklace or ring from inside the Southwest jewelry case.
Mosey to the rear of the store to the 
Known for its therapeutic horse-riding program, Rosewood names each wine varietal after one of the horses. From dry to sweet wine, we loved the Smooth Movin Sheik Malbec enough to purchase a bottle.
The shop’s owner stocks various Kansas-made products, including souvenir gifts for travelers seeking a sunflower or Wizard of Oz trinket. However, I spend the most time perusing the shelves in the back of the store shopping for jarred condiments of dip mixes – samples available
The other side of the store is devoted to selling women’s apparel and jewelry. Look for the clearance shelves for deep discounted finds.
If you’re shopping for a gift, consider purchasing Blind Date With a Book (mystery title!) or one of the many screen-printed graphic t-shirts available.
The best part? A massive indoor enclosed patio at the rear of the store is home to new and antique must-have gifts ranging from garden displays to signage with messaging. Refined Medley sells an assortment of great finds hand-selected by its owner, and I’ll cherish the seasonal decor I purchased.
I spotted two new-to-me oversized creations, which prompted me to get out of my car for a closer look at “Leave a Legacy” by artist Melanie Ryan (1307 Lakin Avenue) and a Kansas-themed mural by artist Brady Scott at 1125 Williams Street.
Other artistic creations in the downtown area include painted boxes with varying whimsical designs.
Not to be missed is the awe-inspiring bronze statue of Jack Kilby in front of the Barton County Courthouse, “The Gift,” by local artist Chet Cale (1400 Main Street). It depicts the microchip inventor, a man who grew up in Great Bend, transmitting knowledge from one generation to the next.
Another sculpture installation, “Remember When,” donated by Tommy Hammond, is located at Rosewood Furniture Gallery (1607 Main Street). It features four aging men of distinctive character looking forward to a vision of their youth.
The moderately challenging course is designed among beautiful trees of nearly every variety. Concrete tee pads and highly visible red baskets make it idyllic for a round of 18 holes.
Due to the 12-acre lake, novice players will find a couple of holes challenging, so I recommend they pack a retriever or floating disc.
As mentioned, the park is home to native and non-native trees to pay homage to the Battle of Argonne Forest. If you walk the paved sidewalk through the park, note signs near trees explaining the variety.
Bonus reasons to spend time at Veteran’s Memorial Park include the Kiwanis Club Fitness Trail, new playground equipment areas, tennis courts, ballparks, and sand volleyball.
PRO TIP: Spend a few minutes admiring the restored tanks at the park’s entrance, which are displayed beyond a row of flagpoles.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism, the education center is a must-stop for nature lovers who want to learn how the state’s ecosystems evolved from the days of its earliest inhabitants to today.
An illuminated floor display and tactile exhibits made the self-guided tour engaging and one that kids would certainly appreciate. We especially enjoyed viewing snakes, rodents, and fish in the classroom’s aquariums.
Before returning to the car to drive the Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve and admire birds, we learned more about the recently spotted waterfowl in the area.
Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve is a birder’s paradise offering glimpses of migratory waterfowl and shorebirds. Before embarking on our trek, a helpful staff member provided a handheld map, which came in handy navigating the acreage.
As we meandered dirt roads on a portion of the 41,000 acres, we spotted a half dozen bird varieties and picturesque views of the Kansas scenery. You’ll love this free outdoor activity.
Outdoor and Indoor Habitats
During our Sunday visit on a cool fall morning, exotic birds mimicked our whistle calls, a grizzly bear used its claws to expose soil in search of grub worms, and a female lion tracked our steps from a raised platform.
Wild birds escorted us, including swans, ducks, and a peacock from habitat to habitat. Periodically, we stopped to take photos at interactive photo displays and bronze sculptures.
For a truly immersive zoo visit, I recommend an animal encounter session led by a zoo keeper, reservable in advance.
You can also opt for a behind-the-scenes tour led by a zookeeper who explains each animal’s story and daily behavior.
PRO TIP: Bring cash for a donation in lieu of admission, if you wish. The zoo’s retail store is stocked with keepsakes ideal for the youngest animal lovers.
The renovated 1950s-era single-family home sleeps four guests and features a queen bed and two twin beds. The highly rated vacation rental, outfitted with traditional-style furniture, is designed with a patriotic theme.
Wood floors creaked underfoot as we toured the home after self check-in (4:00pm). The home was meticulously clean and each room was designed for a comfortable stay with extra blankets, alarm clocks, and charging stations.
We avoided cooking a meal or grilling outside to prevent clean-up, however, I used a Keurig coffee machine and supplied coffee daily.
Although the home doesn’t allow pets, the fenced backyard is a decent size and includes a quaint patio seating area and Blackstone Grill.
REMINDER: The provided house manual emphasizes the house rules and clean-up tasks, which you should adhere closely to avoid added fees.
Nearby towns 
I appreciated the detailed feedback, including the club face angle, stroke speed, and the ball’s trajectory. The ForeSight technology offers users various golf courses to select from, plus families with kids love its carnival game option.
PRO TIP: 
Artists can reserve a day pass to gain unlimited access to the warehouse’s equipment during open studio hours. Summer is a busy time for the studio when about a dozen instructors teach classes. Are you interested in painting, ceramics or paper crafts? They have a 
My instructor, Darren, taught me the step-by-step process of making a linocut drawing using a provided pattern. Admittedly, I wasn’t the best at carving intricate lines into the linoleum square (it’s more difficult than it looks!), but he patiently talked me through the process until it was ready for inking and rolling through the press.
I watched Problemista, a film about a mild-mannered young man working toward getting a VISA 
During your stroll downtown, you’ll quickly notice vibrant -olored murals peeking out from around corners and down alleyways. Each October, selected artists from across the globe converge on Salina to paint street art during the 
PRO TIP: Surround yourself with multiple murals by walking 
I took my time enjoying breakfast in the dining room as I watched the owner, Taylor, and her staff serve breakfast to drive-up window and dine-in customers.
The museum is known for hosting thematic events featuring specific makes and models of cars. 
PRO TIP: If you’re looking for a place to reserve for a group event, consider their 
