Updated October 2026
Disclosure: Visit Coffeyville and Kansas Tourism sponsored this post during separate trips. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.
If you love delving into the history of The Sunflower State, no town is a better place to start than Coffeyville, Kansas.
The town is proud of its legacy and offers plenty to do during your visit. From outlaws and aviators to entrepreneurs and artists, Coffeyville stands out.
Use this ultimate travel guide to explore Coffeyville, a town of more than 8,000 people with captivating history and local businesses.
Top Places Worth Checking Out in Coffeyville, Kansas
COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
Coffeyville Cape Cod Vacation Rental
If you’re seeking a tucked-away, quiet vacation rental for an overnight stay, I recommend Coffeyville Cape Cod, a highly-rated Airbnb guest favorite.
I thoroughly enjoyed the spaciousness and comfort of the bungalow-style, two-bedroom home. Plus, the home is less than a ten-minute drive to downtown Coffeyville and most attractions.
The 1940s home is filled with modern furniture and amenities, and it is exceptionally clean and inviting. A living room area flows into an open dining space. When I wasn’t watching movies, I used the high-speed Wi-Fi to get work done on my laptop.
I chose the queen bedroom closest to the single bathroom, which offers a tub and walk-in shower. Retro black-and-green tiled walls and vintage bathroom fixtures set a mid-century tone
In the morning, you’ll appreciate the Keurig coffee station and provided coffee pods. A full kitchen and bonus kitchenette dining space let you prepare meals if you prefer.
PRO TIP: Windows with blinds lack curtains, so pack a sleep mask for blackout slumber. NOTE: The pet-free home is not wheelchair accessible.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Coffeyville
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Coffeyville (8701 Northeast St.) has received more than 500 nearly perfect ratings, and for a good reason.
The front desk employee gave me a warm welcome and told me about the hotel’s amenities, including complimentary breakfast, an indoor heated pool, and a fitness center with elliptical machines, treadmills, and free weights.
The King Room, featuring modern amenities, had plenty of room for a solo traveler like me. When I wasn’t exploring the town, I appreciated the in-room work desk area where I could get work done.
PRO TIP: Get a sneak peek at the hotel’s accommodations by viewing its online photo gallery here. NOTE: Pet fee per stay: $200. Elevator available.
BRING YOUR APPETITE
Hersh’s Coffee House
The smell of freshly brewed coffee fills the air at Hersh’s Coffee House (123 W. 9th St.) as locals gather at the counter to order specialty lattes and an early morning meal.
I sipped the Howler, an iced espresso with cinnamon, honey, and vanilla, between bites of a breakfast burrito. The delightful breakfast combo set the tone for a day of exploring Coffeyville.
If you visit at lunchtime, ask about the sandwich menu and don’t leave without ordering a scoop of the highly requested Cookie Batter gelato. They serve more than a dozen gelato flavors.
PRO TIP: Choose a seat in the back for a quieter space. Admire the art for sale.
Eggbert’s
If a traditional homestyle breakfast suits you, Eggbert’s (201 W. 11th St.) morning menu features classics like the Reuben Egg Benedict and three-egg Cowboy Breakfast.
I arrived on a Sunday morning to a bustling restaurant and was ushered to a counter seat with a view of the kitchen. The phone rang with to-go orders, and servers pulled plates from the kitchen and ran them to diners.
My diner-style Belgian waffle arrived promptly and tasted delicious, but the orange juice and bacon side made the meal pricier than expected for a simple breakfast.
Expect a Denny’s-style menu and atmosphere. The Oklahoma and Kansas-based franchise also serves lunch and dinner.
The Donut Palace
The employees at The Donut Palace (403 W. 11th St.) greet early-morning donut fans warmly no matter how many orders they are fulfilling.
A heaping tray of donut holes rested on the counter. Beating the customer rush, I ordered a classic cake donut and sausage roll, which was actually a hot dog baked in soft bread and less like a savory Kolach.
The bakery’s drive-thru and dual entrances stayed busy with new customers as I sank my teeth into the freshly baked donut. I heard an employee say, “It’s about to hit!” as the drive-thru bell dinged yet again.
The Donut Palace’s menu also includes biscuit and croissant sandwiches, if you prefer savory options.
The Yoke Bar & Grill
I enjoyed The Yoke Bar & Grill‘s (128 W. 9th St.) food and drink service so much that I returned for a second visit in two days.
The casual bar and grill is a locals’ hangout. Pinned dollar bills with handwritten messages hang above the bar. Bartenders greet regulars as friends.
I chatted with a Coffeyville High School alumnae visiting for Homecoming weekend while sipping an ice-cold beer.
Attendees of the Class of 1976 reunion filed into a separate party room, some wearing cowboy boots and spurs. A couple approached the bar and ordered root beer.
The Country-Fried Steak, with salad and two side dishes, was enough for next-day leftovers. The hearty, gravy-covered steak was the star of the plate.
The following day, I returned for a cocktail and Tater Kegs (imagine giant tater tots filled with cheese and bacon). Next visit, I’ll order a tray of Bacon Cheese Fries. Dinner service after 5 p.m. includes surf-and-turf fare.
El Pueblito Mexican Restaurant
Where do you eat when nearly every local you ask suggests the same place? El Pueblito Mexican Restaurant (600 Northeast St.).
Open daily, the Mexican restaurant serves a classic menu plus bar drinks at its walk-up cantina (locals rave about the margaritas!).
Lunch service was swift despite a full dining room. While browsing the extensive menu, I ate a basket of warm tortilla chips with impressive homemade salsa. The #3 Lunch Special, Ground Beef Taco & Enchilada, comes with rice and beans, a tasty meal for the price.
PRO TIP: The menu is multiple pages, so preview the menu so you don’t feel rushed when ordering.
Sunflower Soda Fountain, Hometown Diner & Coffee Shop
Made-from-scratch food is a major draw at Sunflower Soda Fountain (125 W. 8th St.) downtown. Locals share good old conversation over stacked sandwiches like the Dalton Mega Club and slices of homemade pie.
The Roosevelt Drive Cherry Chocolate Chip or Cedar Bluff Pecan Caramel Sundae are dessert favorites, and shakes and malts keep the soda fountain employees busy.
Staff were incredibly friendly, and the service was attentive. The hometown diner feels comfortable, just like sitting at Grandma’s house.
PRO TIP: Ask about the seasonal soup selection.
ICEE Frozen Slushie at Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce
Did you know the original ICEE frozen slushie was created in Coffeyville? Don’t leave town without buying a $3 drink at the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce’s office.
The history behind the popular drink comes down to one local man’s honest mistake in 1958.
Omar Knedlik, owner of a Dairy Queen in town, improvised by freezing Coke until it was half frozen. The “coldest drink in town” caught on, so he brought in a machine that made the icy concoction on demand.
PRO TIP: Learn more about the legendary drink by watching this video.
STROLL AND SHOP
CrazyKooky Candles
Candles. Wax Melts. Bath and body products. Car Diffusers. At CrazyKooky Candles (232 W. 9th St.), you’ll find it all, plus handmade gift items created by 12 local vendors.
The owner hand-pours jarred candles and wax melts using coconut soy wax in more than 130 scents.
From the ever-popular Kansas Pear Cactus candle to unexpected aromas like Dill Pickle, the store is stocked to the brim.
To learn about upcoming candle-making or crafting classes, follow the store’s Facebook event page.
The Thistle Quilt Shop
Walking to a quilt shop feels cozy. Soft, colorful bedspreads with intricate patterns adorn the walls at The Thistle Quilt Shop (120 W. 9th St.).
The owner moved to the area and took over a historic spot that once served as a dress shop. Notions, threads, and bolts of fabric organized by color fill the space.
Although she isn’t teaching classes or workshops yet, customers can find ready-made quilt kits.
Colonel Coffey’s Trading Post
Walking through Colonel Coffey’s Trading Post (205 W. 9th St.) reminds me of the days I spent hunting for treasures at garage sales with my mom as a kid. Endless vendor booths occupy the large store.
Some booths are more organized than others and are decorated thematically with antiques and collectibles. Other sections resemble thrift-store inventory, with racks of clothes and accessories. The back of the store holds gently used furniture, awaiting a new home.
PRO TIP: The store is part of the Resale Trail, which includes 10 Coffeyville shops.
Coffeyville Farmers’and Makers’ Market
Vendors at the Coffeyville Farmers’ and Makers’ Market at Walter Johnson Park (701 Hargis Drive) sold jarred jellies, crafts, meat cuts, and hot peppers on the Saturday of my arrival.
To my surprise, a farmer was even selling a pair of ducks.
The market is open May through October on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to Noon and Tuesdays (only in September) from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
TAKE A TOUR
Dalton Defenders Museum & Dalton Death Alley
If you only have enough time to make it to one attraction, it must be Dalton Defenders Museum (814 S. Walnut St.). It is the place to start your history journey through town.
When a group of outlaws, the Dalton Gang, thought they could pull off two bank robberies at once in October 1892, they didn’t expect the townspeople to fight back, let alone win.
The Dalton Defenders Museum features authentic artifacts from the shootout and rooms filled with collected local memorabilia. The museum honors the citizens who died.
The outlaws (Grat, Bob, and Emmett Dalton with Bill Powers and Dick Broadwell) were tracked by U.S. Marshals for weeks before they arrived in Coffeyville to rob two banks simultaneously. When stalled by a bank employee for a delayed safe release, the community armed themselves and prepared for a gunfight.
A battle ensued outside C.M. Condon & Co. Bank and the First National Bank. Gallant citizens returned fire, killing the gang, except for Emmett. He was shot multiple times, survived, and served 14 years at Kansas State Penitentiary before getting pardoned in 1907.
Locals stripped the gang of their personal artifacts, cut pieces from their clothes, and took their guns.
Today, the Dalton Defenders Museum displays those historical relics. Visitors should start their self-guided tour with a 45-minute movie, then take up to an hour to view the museum’s contents.
Museum visitors should start the tour in this room to watch a film and see the guns and saddles the outlaws used. The picture on the wall is the image taken on the fateful day, showing the men lying dead inside the city jail.
Next door, walk Dalton Death Alley, where the outlaws tied their horses up during the bank raids and where part of the shootout took place. Cartoon boards tell the story of the raid.
Every October, the town hosts Dalton Defenders Days, an event that draws large crowds to watch the reenactment of the battle in the exact spot of the original shootout. The weekend event also honors the residents lost defending the town.
PRO TIP: Ask the Dalton Defender Museum’s employee to show you the original bank door with bullet holes.
Isham Hardware Store
“Everyone, grab a gun!” During the Dalton Gang bank raid, Coffeyville citizens obtained guns from Isham Hardware (810 Union St.). The business still operates today, selling every tool, bolt, or belt needed for household or farm chores.
I took a cargo elevator to the basement to view the original owner’s shelves and hardware back stock. Although the basement windows were filled in, the openings still let him fire at the bank robbers.
Opened in 1870, Isham Hardware is Kansas’s oldest hardware store. The last family member is running the store today with help from a second employee.
A mural on the side of the building and artwork in the sidewalk mark historical points of interest.
PRO TIP: Ask the owner if you can look at some of their oldest hardware.
Dalton Graves
At Elmwood Cemetery (288 Eldridge St), the graves of the three bank bandits Bob Dalton, Grat Dalton, and Bill Powers lie in rest near a marker. Dick Broadwell’s family returned his body to Hutchinson, Kansas
Emmet Dalton survived the gun battle with 23 gunshots. Given a life sentence, he was pardoned after 14 years and died in California. He was a real estate agent, actor, and author.
Do you see the pipe near the tombstone in the photo? It is the original hitching post the bank robbers used to tie up their horses in Death Alley.
PRO TIP: After entering the cemetery, follow the signs to the marker. You can park on a road parallel to the gravesite.
Chainsaw Art Sculpture Garden
The Chainsaw Art Sculpture Garden (Corner of 8th and Beech Streets) features more than 70 creative chainsaw sculptures carved from trees.
A project of the Coffeyville Community College art department, it continues to expand its collection. Aliens, animals, school supplies, vegetables–you’ll likely find a selfie photo-worthy sculpture.
PRO TIP: Coffeyville Community College hosts public fine arts events.
Coffeyville Art Trail
You don’t have to travel through the heart of Coffeyville very long before you spot a mural or painted electric box. Download the Coffeyville Art Trail, a free-to-use digital pass that lists all the murals and hand-painted electric boxes downtown.
The late Don Sprague painted most of the murals, depicting the people and places that put Coffeyville on the map. The beloved local artist painted 14 murals between 1988 and 1992.
Each painted electric box in the downtown area is painted by a local artist. The brightly colored scenes on each one vary in subject matter.
PRO TIP: Look at Don Sprague’s signature on each mural. Each period punctuated by his name represents a hidden “Tim” in the painting.
Historic Time Capsule
Inspired by the Kansas State Centennial in 1961, a group created an above-ground Historic Time Capsule situated near Isham True Value Hardware. It will be opened in 2061.
Locals reportedly placed wooden nickels, a newspaper, and other items in it.
Aviation Heritage Museum
History buffs and airplane enthusiasts will love Aviation Heritage Museum (2002 N. Buckeye St.) for its extensive collection of restored aircraft and artifacts dedicated to early aviation.
The 1933 hangar houses displays featuring local pilots, including several who flew as Tuskegee airmen or as Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II. Framed color photographs adorn the walls in a dedicated room, honoring their milestone moments.
Restored planes, including those owned by Joe Funk, sit on display. I was delighted to learn that Coffeyville residents were pivotal in developing aircraft and aircraft parts. Funk Aircraft Company built 365 planes; 200 fly today.
Walking amongst the planes, honorary medals, library, and pilot uniforms makes for an unforgettable experience.
Brown Mansion
Sitting atop a hill on the edge of town, the Brown Mansion (2109 S. Walnut) makes an impression on passersby. Built in the early 1900s, the three-story home has five bedrooms and features original furniture and a signed Tiffany chandelier.
Originally designed for the Brown family, the 20,000-square-foot, 16-room mansion was completed in 1906 for $125,000.
Nine gas-burning fireplaces of various styles showcase Wilder and Wight’s architectural style. 
The historic landmark features entertainment spaces, including a library, bedrooms, a parlor, and an
The mother and her daughter preferred green interior walls, offset by ornamental rugs and dark wood furniture.
I was so enthralled by the family’s story and the home’s contents that I suggested writing a book about its history. Although the family’s wealth came from discovering natural gas, their savings dwindled after the father’s death.
NOTE: Locals recommend viewing the Brown Mansion during Christmas Candlelit Tours. Check the museum’s website hours, call ahead to schedule a private tour, or ask about upcoming events such as a paranormal tour during the fall season.
PRO TIP: The family’s burial plot at Elmwood Cemetery is marked by a large red rock.
EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS
Bike-Share Stations
Prefer to explore on two wheels? You can temporarily rent a bike for a reasonable cost from two KANcycle bike stations. One station is located at the corner of 8th and Walnut Streets downtown, and the other is on the Coffeyville Community College campus.
Use your mobile phone to follow the check-out directions via the Movatic App to rent for an hour, an afternoon, or longer.
Walter Johnson Park
Your entire family will find a reason to love Walter Johnson Park (701 Hargis Dr.), named after the town’s early resident and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer who pitched for the Washington Senators from 1907-1927. A monument plaque with his biography is near the baseball field’s entrance.
Nearby one of the park’s entrances, an ATSF steam locomotive is an eye-catching sight. The train engine is a tribute to “The Big Train,” Walter Johnson.
The park also has an 18-hole disc golf course that winds around the ball fields, playground, and RV park. It’s free to play the course and available from dawn to dusk.
Pfister Park
Pfister Park‘s Big Hill Splash Aquatic Center is an ideal place to bring the family. Adults who want to take to the links appreciate Hillcrest Golf Course for its 18-hole design with hills and water hazards. Home of the Coffeyville Community College Red Ravens, Veterans Memorial Stadium hosts sporting events.
Prefer to exercise on paved trails? Use the Roosevelt Drive Trail and the Rails-to-Trails Pathway.
Locate more parks and the Coffeyville batting cages.
VIEW MOVIES AND MORE
Midland Theater
Built in 1928, the historic Midland Theater (214 W. 8th St.) is undergoing final renovations and is expected to reopen for movie nights, live performances, and community events.
I had the pleasure of a private tour, and the community will love what they see when the beloved 1928 landmark opens its doors.
Upon entry, the original tile floor and crown molding give you pause to appreciate the theater’s ornate interior design.
The front-of-house concession stand stands poised to welcome hungry guests ordering popcorn and beverages. The auditorium has 773 available seats with a clear view of the stage where vaudeville acts once performed.
Coffeyville High School reunion groups are invited to take guided tours during the restoration process. Follow the restoration progress on the theater’s Facebook page.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I can’t stay away from Coffeyville because there are more than enough reasons to explore. Events like Dalton Defenders Days (October) and Inter-State Fair & Rodeo (August) are major draws.
You can expect a genuine welcome from residents wherever you go, and the town’s top destinations are some of the best in the state.
Are you considering extending your Southeast Kansas road trip? Use my travel guides to nearby communities, Chanute and Pittsburg.
Founded in 1886, 
The memorial honors the miners who lost their lives in the worst mining disaster in Kansas history at the Cherokee and Pittsburg Coal and Mining Company Mine No. 2 on November 9, 1888. Family members gathered at the mine’s entrance, distraught and waiting for news about their loved ones, many of whom did not survive the dust explosion.
Whenever I approach a memorial, I vow to read every name inscribed on it, and this time was no different.
PRO TIP: Clear your calendar to attend Frontenac’s 140th birthday at Mining Days on June 5-7, 2026. The Heritage and Homecoming Celebration is an annual event featuring family-friendly activities and historical tours. Don’t miss 
Frontenac residents have a lot to be proud of, and you owe it to yourself to visit the Heritage Hall Museum at the 
Original artifacts curated from local families added a storytelling quality, enhancing the high-quality exhibits. I was amazed by the attention to detail, from the testimonials of miners to the newspaper clippings about business openings.
The history of Southeast Kansas, and Frontenac in particular, is the story of European immigrants, miners, bootleggers, religious devotees, and family members who looked out for one another and supported the community.
Walking inside the bakery, I felt as if I were a customer seeking to buy a loaf. Tools of the miner’s trade and newspaper clippings about the worst mining disaster in history adorned a room dimly lit by lanterns. A peek inside a replica chapel revealed the history of long-standing Catholic and Methodist communities.
Another aspect of the museum that makes it better than most is that the director thought to include an interactive component, adding visual and audio stations, making it more accessible for visitors. Due to the museum’s proximity to the Frontenac Public Library, its artifacts are deeply rooted in the area’s genealogy.
Former and current Frontenac residents will relish the displays featuring curated Raiders memorabilia. Peering inside the displays, it was as if I could hear the football players and cheerleaders rooting for the Raiders to win the high school’s first-ever state football championship over Stockton in 1994.
Visiting the Heritage Hall Museum, located inside the Frontenac Public Library, is well worth it, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural legacy and mining history of Frontenac and the greater Southeast Kansas region.
The locally owned coffee shop sells 
During my visit, a steady stream of locals came and went, accompanied by music playing from a Bluetooth speaker.
The dining room was already filled with locals when I stopped by on a weekday for a midday meal of boneless chicken wings coated in Sully Sauce. With my choice of side dish, my meal was appetizing and one I’d order again.
On Saturday nights, Shooters Neighborhood Bar & Grill is a popular hangout attracting diners seeking the Chef’s Choice special. Happy Hour specials are served Monday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
And for the kids (and young-at-heart), there’s a self-serve candy station, perfect for mixing and matching your favorite sweets by the pound. It’s the ultimate sugar-fueled pit stop for your Kansas adventure.
I would refer to the shop’s 
In addition to slicing deli meat by the order, refrigerated glass cases house homemade sausage, pasta meals, and pre-made sandwiches. A few tables provide a place for lunch-goers to sit down and savor a panini prepared with bread from the local bakery.
Built in 1910, the renovated loft space beautifully showcases the historic building’s architecture, from its brick-exposed walls to the original wood floors. The 1,600 square foot, two-bedroom, one bath loft sleeps four guests.
You’ll appreciate the private parking with front door or back door self-entry keypad access. Once inside, it feels like home with amenities such as a washer and dryer, full kitchen, streaming television channels, Bluetooth compatible speakers, and high-speed WiFi.
A bonus room includes a poker table and additional couch with television for lounging with friends or family.
The bathroom, designed with his and her sinks, is spacious and includes in-shower products. Plush body-size towels and a motion detector for the overhead light are added touches you don’t always find in a vacation rental.
Pro Tip: Shop the loft owner’s store, 
PRO TIP: Don’t expect to be able to check in early to your room, but instead, ask if the hotel will hold your bags until 4 pm check-in.
It sits as short walk on campus from the bronze gorilla sculpture in front of PSU’s Student Center.
PRO TIP: Use the 
If you choose to play the 18-hole course, expect the wooded areas to offer a bit of a challenge. The course is a mix of open fields and covered trails. All 18 holes are a par 3. Are you ready for a game?
The family-friendly urban park welcomes musicians after dark on Friday nights and hosts other events, such as movie nights on occasion. Come early to grab a table. I recommend purchasing a snack or a beer at the permanent food stand or ordering from the menu of a food truck.
Visitors to The Greenway who craft a craft cocktail can stop inside 
Shoppers will also appreciate its high-quality grooming supplies, candles, shoes, and shelves of on-trend ballcaps. I couldn’t leave without a beer logo t-shirt and stylish socks.
You can often find vinyl records for sale, which I’ve purchased for my home collection. They also support music performances at the 
Committed to adopting out the cats in their care using a strict vetting process, I was impressed with the store’s mission to provide cats and book lovers a space where they could relax and get to know one another.
As I shopped, I watched as a new pet parent returned with a cat carrier to take her pet home. The staff was elated for the owner and her feline family member.
The store carries books of every genre from bestselling titles to juvenile fiction and young reader must-haves. And like any business that favors felines, they stock an array of merchandise for shoppers smitten with kittens, such as stickers, bookmarks, and apparel.
The massive warehouse was filled to the brim with antiques from every decade. Love depression glass? College memorabilia? Old watches? You can find all of it and more tucked inside the booth spaces of Paradise Mall Antiques.
As I made my way through the store, I noticed many of the booths’ contents showcase the vendor’s preference in antiques. Sometimes you have to bend down, look around, and dig through a box to find a buried treasure. Paradise Mall Antiques is where you go shopping for yourself and that hard to buy for friend or relative.
Serving happy customers since 2019, the brewpub prides itself on its multiple beer taps and New York-style pizza selection prepared in a brick oven.
The brunch selections are a draw but the lunch and dinner classics paired with a thoughtfully crafted cocktail have earned the eatery high praise. To my surprise, each dining experience starts with complementary chipotle seasoned popcorn.
Menu selections during my dining experience exceeded my expectations for beautiful plating, quality, and value. Appetizers like Almost Deviled Eggs or the Warm House Ricotta and Garlic with sourdough are guaranteed good bites.
At mealtime, dig into tasty Avocado Smoked Salmon Toast or a dinner-size Grilled Cajun Shrimp Salad, served with a zesty house-made dressing.
The owner/chef’s creativity shines in the For the Boys whiskey-and-honey cocktail, and any of her after-dinner desserts with creamy gelato are surefire winners.
PRO TIP: Watch my 
Whether you’re in the mood for a cold beer, hot coffee, or fruit smoothie, the cozy watering hold delivers. Come hungry and enjoy affordable meals like a Walking Taco, Philly Cheesesteak, or a Turkey Wrap. I found a shaded spot under a patio table’s umbrella to relax.
Deep blue walls, flanked by a dark-wood bar, welcome guests as jazz standards play in the background. The bartender hummed the melody as he prepared a Lemon Tea Fizz prepared with house-made syrup, a cocktail you won’t find on any other menu in town.
PRO TIP: The bar opens at 5 pm. on Wednesday-Saturday. Arrive early to claim the best seat or be prepared to order your drink in a to-go cup to drink on 
But you’ll find more than beverages on the menu as the owners are culinary pros using their skills to prepare pastries and crepes daily as well as breakfast handhelds like a waffle or bagel sandwich. At lunchtime, ask about bread bowls, quesadillas, and protein and veggie-packed sandwich wraps.
The tradition of serving full-flavor fried chicken began when two women opened restaurants on the same street catering to hungry coal miners during all hours, and it was a way to support unemployed, disabled men enduring the hardships of the Great Depression. A competition between two restaurants led to more fried chicken houses opening in the region.
Each restaurant is recommendable, and my favorite spot is a 22-minute drive northeast of Pittsburg to 
On Mondays, a line forms at Gebhardt’s Chicken Dinner door. The draw? Chicken and noodles.
In the mood for a live show? 
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.
Retro Coca-Cola signage, a vintage cash register, and a marble-topped counter was a nostalgic setting. Country music played while I enjoyed what has to the be the yummiest, best value lunch ($5) in the state.
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.
At the 
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.
BONUS: Before departing from the historic site area, look across the street at the mural, “First Kansas Colored Infantry” painted by artist Cbabi Bayoc in 2023. Click 
A major fan of his work and a previous photography teacher, I was elated to tour the museum to glimpse Parks’ cameras, his framed photography, and to view a replica of Park’s New York City apartment.
Our group was fortunate enough to have a guided tour by the museum’s director, who informed us about the international impact Parks’ work as a photographer had, but also as a filmmaker, writer, and musician. Parks taught himself how to do it all.
Later, we went on a special guided 
Born in Fort Scott, he lived in the Kansas town for the first 16 years of his life only to return later to document the town in a photo essay. He filmed scenes for his movie The Learning Tree at Gunn Park, which was also included in our tour. He wrote the screenplay, directed, acted, produced and wrote the musical score for the semi-autobiographical film.
Another stop of our tour took us to a mural depicting Parks painted by artist Cbabi Bayoc. Located at 18 E. Wall Street, Tribute to Gordon Parks “No Place Like Home” includes a portion of his Homecoming poem.
Lastly, our trolley tour ended with a visit to the town’s newest tribute, the 
Interpretive panels inform about the church’s namesake, Bishop Wayman, previous pastors, and a timeline of events documents its history.
A bricklayer’s fingerprints can still be seen in the church’s original bricks, which were added to the Wayman Chapel African American Methodist Episcopal Commemorative Park established on the site where the church once stood.
PRO TIP: Give yourself at least an hour to tour the museum. Many displays include a video component or touchscreen interaction. Don’t miss the outdoor displays, and look for the stars during a self-guided sidewalk tour.
During our two-hour workshop, I learned how the owner sources Bourbon County clay, prepares it for projects, and uses it to create stunning kitchenware and decorative pieces.
If you’re interested in an art class (they range in mediums from painting to pottery), view 
Be sure to shop for a new treasure in the art gallery. Handcrafted items include oversized whimsical clay designs, dinnerware, coffee mugs, wall art, and jewelry.
Also known for an equally dynamic lunch menu, Cohn’s Cafe on Main, offers diners another reason to visit. The Green Lantern dinner menu features main dishes such as German Goulash and Short Rib Ravioli.
Adjacent to the restaurant is the 100 South Main Mercantile & Market, which sells Kansas-made gifts and Fort Scott memorabilia.
PRO TIP: Check for the day’s menu specials on 
During my visit, I learned that the commercial kitchen space with state-of-the-art equipment can be rented by food truck operators and small business chefs.
A retail marketplace at the front of the space, The Kitchen C+C, is where kitchen tenants can sell grab-and-go cuisine, including daily lunch specials.
To learn more about Fort Scott, view Kansas Tourism’s 
