swimming pool

A Guide to Outdoor Swimming Pools In Kansas

July 2, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 1 Comment

Kansas summers can be downright hot. One of the best places to cool off is at the public swimming pool, but which one is near you this summer?

Whether you’re interested in taking the family for a full day of splash-splash fun or want to cool down dip between sunbathing sessions, let this guide to the state’s outdoor swimming pools inspire your summer fun.

NORTHWEST KANSAS

CITY OF COLBY AQUATIC PARK

The City of Colby Aquatic Park (1610 S. Franklin) features a lazy river, shaded cabanas, two diving boards, and slides. Typically opened in late May, it hosts weekly Water Walking and Lap Swim sessions.

Colby Aquatic Park

WAKEENEY WATER PARK

Splash-splash in the sun at WaKeeney Water Park (716 N. 6th), located a short drive from Kansas Interstate 70. On occasion, the pool invites sun lovers for a Free Swim Day sponsored by an area business. The swimming pool includes a twisting waterslide, shallow water kids play area, and shaded areas for lounging poolside.

WaKeeney Water Park

SOUTHWEST KANSAS

GARDEN RAPIDS AT THE BIG POOL

Swimmers love Garden Rapids at the Big Pool (504 E. Maple) in Garden City for its massive size. Tubular slides send swimmers splashing into the water. It’s the first municipal pool in the Midwest to have a Spashtacular Slip Stream Slide allowing you to stand up as you slide down.

SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS

GREENSBURG CITY POOL

Located at 320 W. Garfield, Greensburg’s swimming pool is highly rated for its features that appeal to kids and adults. They keep the fun going when the pool occasionally hosts themed nights (Pirate Pool Party, anyone?) and night swims.

Greensburg Pool

ROCK RIVER RAPIDS AQUATIC PARK

In Derby, Kansas, Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park (1900 E. James) is a popular attraction for locals and tourists. It includes a zero-depth pool, lap pool, lazy river, and multiple slides. The Green Slide is a windy body slide with see-through features.

Rock River Rapids

LINDSBORG SWIMMING POOL

Need a place to cool off? The Lindsborg Swimming Pool (520 S. 1st St.) allows families to splash-splash starting June 1. A kiddie pool provides zero-depth entry and water spouts for children ages 6 and under. Diving boards, lap lanes, and open swim areas guarantee fun for the entire family. Don’t miss the 153′ waterslide, Thor’s Revenge.

KENWOOD COVE AQUATIC PARK

Salina’s Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park (701 Kenwood Park Dr.) is the place to be when you want “real surf, real fun.” Don’t miss a chance to enjoy the wave pool, lap lanes, spiral slides, and lazy river. When the summer swim season ends, they host a Pooch Plunge for dogs and their owners.

NORTHEAST KANSAS

SPLASH COVE

Get relief from summer’s rays in the cool pools at Shawnee’s Splash Cove (11110 Johnson Dr.). Bring an inflatable tube to float through the lazy river that leads you under arched waterfalls. The Mini Wave Pool, a 125-foot full-body slide, and an interactive playground featuring animal characters keep it fun.

Splash Cove

GARDNER AQUATIC CENTER

Gardner Aquatic Center (215 N. Center St.) is open daily for summertime fun, and admission is $2 less per person during Twilight Swim. Equipped with ADA-accessible amenities, it is gigantic in size. You can expect three slides and a curvy lazy river that leads to open swim areas with climbable equipment. Interconnected walkways traverse through the water park.

THOMAS A. SOETAERT AQUATIC CENTER

Opening day at Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center (13805 Johnson Dr.) is popular. Lines form around the building to gain entrance to the city’s swimming pool featuring towering slides, AquaClimb, diving boards, and an 8-lane lap pool. A lazy river, Bubble Bench, and interactive pool features entertain families during summer, making it a go-to spot.

Shawnee pool

LAWRENCE OUTDOOR AQUATIC CENTER

The Lawrence Outdoor Aquatic Center (727 Kentucky St.) draws fun-goers who want two water slides, a zero-depth children’s area, a diving well, spray mushrooms, unpredictable water buckets, and a lap swim area.

SOUTHEAST KANSAS

PITTSBURG AQUATIC CENTER

When the sun is out, the Pittsburg Aquatic Center (708 W. 9th St.) is open for business during the summer. Go for the diving boards, wide slides fit for two swimmers, and a gigantic swimming pool.

FORT SCOTT AQUATIC CENTER

Lifeguards on duty are ready to welcome you at Fort Scott Aquatic Center (8th and Main), where a kids’ play area, fun-loving slides, and diving boards are the showstoppers. The pool hosts private parties, swim lessons, and water fitness classes.

While this list consists of excellent swimming pools across the state, it does not represent all. Check with the town near you for the closest aquatic center.

A Weekend in Shawnee, Kansas: A Guide to the Best Things to Do

June 17, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Visit Shawnee. All opinions and photos are my own except for one photo.

Shawnee, Kansas, promises weekend visitors plenty of fun things to see and do in a community less than a 20-minute drive from the Kansas City metro. “Good Starts Here” is the phrase Shawnee uses to describe itself. After a return visit, I wholeheartedly agree.

Shawnee mural — Artist Jacob Cromer painted a mural on the side of the building at Johnson Drive and Neiman Road.

FOOD & DRINK SPOTS

Cafe Equinox

Start the day with a lavender latté and a warm cheddar scone amongst the beautiful flowers at Family Tree Nursery Kansas City’s Cafe Equinox. Free guest Wi-Fi and lots of good day vibes – a plant lovers’ dream.

PRO TIP: Enjoy breakfast on the patio and then shop the popular garden center for various plants, flowers, and gift items. Kids will appreciate watching fish at the koi pond.

McClain’s Market

McLain’s Market (5833 Nieman Rd.) is where you go when craving fresh, made-to-go salads, sandwiches, and soups for lunch. (They also serve delicious coffee and delectable breakfast pastries!) The sun shone on this day, and I wanted to eat outdoors.

I purchased a quinoa and kale salad with berries and took it to a shady spot at Shawnee Mission Park to enjoy it. The birds chirped, and schoolchildren played at the nearby playground.

PRO TIP: McLain’s Market has plenty of seating if you’d rather dine in.

Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant

If traveling with kids, you must dine at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant (13803 W. 63rd St.). Since the 1950s, patrons have watched toy trains overhead deliver food to each table. I loved the experience of using the table’s telephone to call in my order, listening for the “choo choo” sound, and watching the train lower the food to my table.

Since I already ate lunch, I opted not to order their famous old-fashioned hamburger and instead chose homemade onion rings and a cup of vanilla ice cream. I watched as model trains passed overhead as I relished in the nostalgia of a long-standing restaurant tradition.

PRO TIP: The Shawnee location serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Popular meals include the Big R, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, and Oreo Sundae.

Blind Box BBQ

Blind Box BBQ (13214 W. 62nd Ter.) serves Kansas City barbecue with a modern twist. Like bbq restaurants in the region, the smoked meats are served with sweet and savory sauces. What makes Blind Box BBQ’s menu unique is they elevate traditional bbq meals using uncommon ingredients. Prime Blend Burger is served with onion jam and brie cheese. The Smoked Chicken Philly comes with whipped cream cheese.

I recommend ordering a bbq meat dinner with your choice of two side dishes. Elote corn on the cob (Mexican street corn) and bourbon baked beans are melt-in-your-mouth good. I hope to return for the Sunday Brunch, a buffet, plus endless mimosas or Bloody Marys.

PRO TIP: Ask for a sampling of sauces. I loved the Barenuckle Traditional KC Style and Southpaw Carolina Style sauces. Available by the bottle for $6.

Pathlight Brewing

With 12 beers on tap, Pathlight Brewing (112000 W. 75th St.) serves beers to loyal customers seven days a week. They’ve received awards for their sours, but you’ll find a variety of beers on the menu, from Belgian Style Ale to West Coast Lager. I recommend asking for short pours of Wick Hazy IPP and Stay K Tropical Hazy IPA. Surprisingly, they stock about two dozen whiskeys available as well.

It’s a comfortable space to sit back with friends and play a board game while listening to music. Known for their F1 Racing watch parties, they also host Music Bingo on Thursdays and food trucks every Friday and Saturday.

PRO TIP: Everything on tap can be purchased in cans from the refrigerated case.

Friction Beer Company

Good things are happening in downtown Shawnee. Owners Brent Anderson and Nathan Ryerson are opening Friction Beer Company (11018 Johnson Dr.) to patrons who appreciate listening to excellent music and sipping on beers named after song lyrics. Brent gave me a behind-the-scenes tour, which included a 10-barrel system production facility and taproom designed with a music lovers aesthetic.

Their mission is to make beer for every kind of drinker, where people can gather with friends or family in the taproom or the upstairs patio. You can expect lagers, stouts, and IPA variations on tap. You never know; you may find a barrel-aged beer on tap one day.

PRO TIP: Snap a photo in front of the cassette wall. Sit in a booth to see how many songs you remember on the wall.

Paulo and Bill

I found a fabulous, locally-owned restaurant for Happy Hour, Paulo and Bill (16501 Midland Dr.). A glass of chardonnay paired nicely with spinach dip and house-made chips. The welcoming staff greeted regular guests who sat at bar tables chatting about the day’s events.

Not only does the restaurant serve discounted drinks and starter appetizers Monday-Friday from 3 pm-6 pm, but the bistro-style eatery is known for its Italian pasta dishes and surf-n-turf selections.

PRO TIP: Check their website for wine dinner event dates requiring a reservation.

Nick & Jake’s

Nick & Jake’s (22220 Midland Dr.) is not a typical sports bar. It serves upscale, made-from-scratch menu options. Imagine dining on Grilled Bourbon Salmon, Pear Pollo Pecan Salad, or Jambalaya while watching the game from a comfortable booth.

In search of a comforting meal, I ordered a meatloaf dinner smothered in brown gravy served with classic vegetable side dishes. I glanced around the bar area and noted that most meals were sizable and arrived beautifully plated.

PRO TIP: Prefer small plate dining and drinks? Arrive Monday-Friday from 3 pm – 6 pm for $1 off beer and wine by the glass to accompany menu items like Tomato Bruschetta or Blackened Shrimp Mac-n-Cheese.

District Pour House + Kitchen

District Pour House + Kitchen (11101 Johnson Dr.) is one of the newest additions to downtown Shawnee’s dining scene. Located in the old Shawnee State Bank from 1911, the restaurant’s kitchen prepares signature flatbreads, appetizing salads, and dinner entrees you won’t find elsewhere. Duck Risotto for dinner? Beer Short Rib Ravioli? Yes, please.

We ordered the Hazelnut Shrimp Salad and Classic Flatbread at lunchtime, which were sizable for mid-day portions. I loved the intense flavor of bacon and pepperoni, but I would order it without the spicy peppers next time.

PRO TIP: Ask about the house-made infused spirits on display behind the bar. From Brown Sugar Pecan Bourbon to Marshmallow Vodka, District Pour House + Kitchen is thinking outside the box.Drastic Measures

Drastic Measures (5817 Nieman Rd.) is a James Beard-nominated swanky cocktail bar that serves photo-worthy cocktails you won’t find elsewhere. If it can be done better, Drastic Measures is doing it differently, and they are unapologetic about their mission.

I sat down with one of the co-owners to learn about the business, which he considers a “glorified lemonade stand.” The bar consistently provides upscale drinks in a laid-back, accepting atmosphere.

PRO TIP: Sanders’ second business, Wild Child, is opening next door soon. It will cater to patrons in search of no and low-ABV libations. Expect small bites plates, and “real big vibes.”

Flying Cow Gelato

Flying Cow Gelato (11210 Johnson Dr.) delivers when you crave something sweet. The bonus? Gelato delivers the rich flavor of ice cream, but it’s less fattening.

Since its recent opening downtown, the gelato has been in high demand. The employees make it fresh daily in flavors like Birthday Cake, Pistachio, Root Beer Float, and Italian-style Stracciatella made with chocolate shavings (my favorite!). Fun Fact: Gelato was invented in Italy and translates to “ice cream.”

PRO TIP: Choose a seat on the shaded patio to enjoy your dessert treat amongst beautiful flowers with a view of downtown.

PLACES TO PLAY OUTDOORS

Mid-America Sports Complex

Visiting Shawnee during a good weather weekend? Visit Mid-America Sports Complex (20000 Johnson Dr.) to catch a youth baseball or softball game. The 70-acre facility is a hub of family-fun activity. During my visit, I watched a baseball game from the stands at no cost.

Recently renovated, the ballpark is also home to the Fan Zone concession stand, yard games to play between innings, and Instagram-worthy backdrops. Oversized baseballs and a letter written by a player catch one’s eye at the ballpark’s entrance.

PRO TIP: Traveling with little kids? Walk them to Mini America to play whiffle ball on an artificial turf field.

Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball

Does this look like California? Think again! Enjoy summer by experiencing Shawnee Mission Mission Beach Volleyball as a player or spectator. For over 20 years, sandy beaches and tropical drinks have attracted adults looking to have fun in the sun.

I enjoyed sitting back and sipping on a margarita as the first day of co-ed summer league volleyball commenced with the announcer’s call, “It’s volleyball o’clock!” Children built sand castles on the sidelines. Team members gave high-fives between sets.

Indoors, the air conditioning was inviting. I watched professional volleyball on TV as 1950s music hits played from the speaker.

PRO TIP: The indoor scenery is worth a look. Brass labels on the wooden bar showcase league teams like Sand Crabs 24-0 and Diggin It 24-0 that swept past league play.

Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center

PRO TIP: If you want to relax poolside, claim a reclining chair or escape to a shaded party cabana.

Splash Cove

A family-friendly destination at the Jim Allen Aquatic Center (5800 King Ave.), Splash Cove is conveniently located near downtown attractions. It is the place to spend a summer afternoon with children. The Mini Wave Pool, a 125-foot full-body slide, and an interactive playground featuring animal characters keep it fun.

PRO TIP: Rent a party cabana for poolside privacy.

Shawnee Mission Park

Biking, swimming, fishing, disc golfing, kayaking, and more are just some of the many reasons to visit Shawnee Mission Park (79th and Renner Rd.). The impressive park consists of over 1,600 acres and a 120-acre lake.

On any given day, visitors can access outdoor activities designed for adventurers of all ages. I observed fishermen hoping to catch bass and catfish from kayaks.Land-based activities include equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, which appeared well-groomed and easy to navigate. I saw dog parents watching four-legged friends at the 44-acre off-leash area. Families ate lunch while admiring stunning lake views at picnic shelters.

PRO TIP: Purchase tickets to a Theater in the Park live musical production. Bringing the kids? Research the theater’s Movies in the Park schedule.

ARTWORK TO ADMIRE

Shawnee Library

I love visiting a library, especially to view its art galleries. At Shawnee Library (13811 Johnson Dr.), I discovered a gallery of artwork depicting African-American themes. Stop by the library to view rotating artwork.

PRO TIP: Do your kids love to read? Drive to Shawnee Town Museum with the kids for Reading to the Rooster, a free event for kids every Wednesday in June.

Veterans Park

Pay tribute to those who died during World War II at Veterans Park (13605 Johnson Dr.). Located across the parking lot from the aquatic center, it’s a beautifully landscaped area to view Hands Of Freedom, a tribute dedicated in 1992 to military veterans.

PRO TIP: Park hours are 6 am-10 pm. Attend a the memorial’s special tribute event on Veterans Day.

Wild Bill Hickok Statue – Trail Scout Park

A 13-foot-tall sculpture of Wild Bill Hickok (Shawnee Mission Parkway and Nieman Road) is an awe-inspiring feature at Trail Scout Park. Artist Maretta Kennedy worked with bronze to create “Trail Scout.” Hickok was a figure in Shawnee history in the 1850s.

PRO TIP: Parking nearby is free. Take the sidewalk to the sculpture and read the interpretive displays.

Pioneer Crossing Park

The history of wagon trains passing through the area is depicted by a sculpture at Pioneer Crossing Park (10401 Shawnee Mission Parkway). Created by artist Charles Goslin, it is a life-size beautiful landmark surrounded by native grasses and trees.

PRO TIP: View a nearby bronze statue of wagonmaster Richard Williams. He built a house in the area between 1857-1860.

Herman Laird Park

Stop by Herman Laird Park (1600 Johnson Dr.) to view “Talking Time,” a bronze sculpture that pays tribute to Chief. Charles Bluejacket. He was a Shawnee tribal chief, minister, farmer, and military captain who came to the area from Ohio.

PRO TIP: The park is an excellent place for kids to play on equipment and swings. It is located within walking distance of Shawnee Town 1929.

Parade of Hearts

One of the best ways to bring attention to a destination? By adding public art like Parade of Hearts: A Heartland Celebration. The five-foot 3-D hearts are placed in Kansas City and surrounding towns to unite the community and celebrate diversity. The heart, located in downtown Shawnee, features hundreds of padlocks.

PRO TIP: Use the interactive map to find more Parade of Hearts during your KC-area travels.

HISTORY TO DISCOVER

Shawnee Town 1929

Transport yourself back to when Shawnee was a farming community at Shawnee Town 1929 (11501 W. 57th St.). The living history museum is open for guided and self-guided tours from March to October, giving visitors insight into a typical day in Shawnee all those years ago.

I started my museum experience by watching a historical video in the visitor’s center before heading outdoors to tour authentic and replica buildings.

Industries that influenced the town’s economy are represented.

Walk inside Murphy Service Station to see where the town’s early residents shopped for gas, soda pop, and cigars. Take a moment to appreciate Dunbar School, a one-room schoolhouse with authentic artifacts. Appreciate the entrepreneurial achievements of business owners at Garrett Grocery Store, City Ice, and Fisher Chevrolet Dealership.

To fully understand how Shawnee was established, tour the inside of an 1878 farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and chicken coop (live roosters and hens welcome you!). The reality of farmstead life becomes apparent when entering the Market Shed, where produce was washed and sorted for the market.

I found the botanical gardens, planted and maintained by K-State Research and Extension Center’s master gardeners, to be a highlight. The Typewriter Repair Shop was by far my favorite building for its authenticity.

Old Shawnee Days is an entertaining event that attracts thousands of visitors to Shawnee Town 1929 in June every year. Known for its carnival, music, concessions, and vendors, it is worth planning your trip around.

The museum’s annual Bloody Mary Party is a popular fundraiser that uses the working farm’s tomato crop. You will want to attend their celebrations. Check their Facebook page for upcoming adults-only and family-friendly events.

PRO TIP: End your museum tour back at the visitor’s center to shop for Kansas-themed gifts.

Downtown Shawnee

Shawnee began as a campsite name for Gum Springs and was named for the Shawnee Indians that located to the area. After the Civil War, farmers settled in the area to grow crops and sell produce to neighboring Kansas City residents. Today, the downtown area is a thriving business district with historic buildings.

I recommend accessing the online map before starting the walking tour at City Hall.

PRO TIP: Park via streetside parking or City Hall’s public lot.

Downtown Shawnee Historic Photos — Historical photos adorn an electric box in downtown Shawnee.

STORES TO SHOP

Nigro’s Western Store NO. 2

Yeehaw! For over 50 years, Nigro’s Western Store No. 2 (10503 Shawnee Mission Parkway) has outfitted shoppers with the best denim and boots in Shawnee, Kansas. Celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Moses Brings Plenty have shopped its aisles.

Third-generation owned and operated, the Western store is a cowboy’s and cowgirl’s dream. Boots, belts, jewelry, jeans…they’ve got it all for concert season or any day of the year.

PRO TIP: Check the store’s Facebook page for the Look of the Week to inspire your shopping.

Family Tree Nursery

I’ve visited Family Tree Nursery (7036 Nieman Rd.) in springtime and before Christmas, and it’s just as magical every time. If you’re shopping for indoor or outdoor plants, home decor, or gardening supplies, I suggest stopping there before departing Shawnee for your home.

The botanical backdrops inspire photos, and Cafe Equinox is the ideal place to grab a nature-inspired latte or bag of whole-bean coffee to go.

PRO TIP: Walk to the rear of the greenhouse to find an area devoted to plants on sale.

HOTEL LODGING TO REST

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Kansas City Shawnee

I love a Marriott hotel. The modern amenities, clean rooms, and rewards points make it a worthwhile stay. Fairfield Inn & Suites (16550 Midland Dr.) is a short drive from many of the city’s top attractions.

My King Suite guest room was noteworthy for its bonus lounge space with a second television and desk area. If traveling with kids, the sofa bed pulls out to accommodate them. On-site amenities like a complimentary full breakfast, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center make the overnight stay extra comfortable.

PRO TIP: Should you forget to pack road trip snacks, stock up on your favorites at the 1st-floor convenience store.

What a whirlwind weekend you’re going to have in Shawnee! For more places to discover, my blog post Out & About in Shawnee written in 2021, includes bonus travel details such as Aztec Theater, breakfast eatery Pegah’s, and Wandering Vine at the Castle.

Are you following my Kansas road trips on social media? I post bonus content on Facebook and Instagram – thank you for coming along for the fun!

10 Outdoor Activities That Make Lindsborg, Kansas Unique

May 3, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 3 Comments

Disclosure: Visit Lindsborg sponsored this post. However, all opinions are mine. I took the majority of the photos.

Lindsborg, Kansas, known as Little Sweden USA, is well-revered for its festival scene, art galleries, and eateries. The town, located on the Smoky Hill River, has various outdoor activities that make it unique. If you’re an outdoor adventurer, you need to visit Lindsborg.

Established more than 150 years ago, the town keeps me coming back for its long list of entertaining things to do, unlike any other town in the Sunflower State.

10 Outdoor Activities That Make Lindsborg Unique

1.) TRAILS

When the Kansas sun is shining, there is no better place to be than outside exploring. Lindsborg has free, ell-maintained trails perfect for getting one’s steps, biking, or dog walking (leash required!). Välkommen Trail is a converted rail bed that runs 4.25 miles. With various points of interest, I enjoyed reading about the town’s early history from the historical markers along the trail.

To view the route, download a colorful map with trail rules here.

A trail sign along Välkommen Trail near a Fredrickson Outdoor Fitness Park reminds users of best practices.

Look for historical markers with information about the town’s founders as you ride or walk the Välkommen Trail.

Not every small Kansas town can boast more than one trail, which makes Lindsborg unique. Meadowlark Trail, accessible at the southern endpoint of the Välkommen Trail, is a wide, 12.6-mile limestone trail with promising scenic views from what was once a Union Pacific railroad corridor. I appreciated the tree-covered shade at the onset of the route.

The trail will fully connect to McPherson by the end of Summer 2023. To learn a detailed summary of the trail, access TrailLink.

PRO TIP: Drive to the Old Mill Campground to park for free and walk to the Meadowlark Trail sign. The trailhead only offers enough parking space for two cars.

Rail-Trail — Meadowlark Trail’s surface is crushed stone, making for a comfortable walk or bike ride.

2.) CORONADO HEIGHTS KITE FLY

Open fields and windy conditions make Kansas the ideal place to fly a kite, and Coronado Heights (4200 W. Coronado Heights), northeast of Lindsborg, is an incurably scenic spot with views of Smoky Hills. The area is the site where it is believed Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and his men explored the area in a quest for riches, which they didn’t find.

The town hosts the Coronado Heights Kite Fly! event every May, drawing kite lovers to test their skills. Wings of the World Kites & Toys sells demonstrates how to fly kites, and participants can also purchase kite kits at the toy store in town, Trollslända (135 N. Main St.)

3.) FREDRICKSON OUTDOOR FITNESS PARK

When you’re ready for a cardiovascular workout, Frederickson Outdoor Fitness Park is the place to do it. The fitness station adjacent to Völkammen Trail’s south trailhead is designed with equipment so adults can target workouts to improve their strength, flexibility, and agility.

The outdoor gym includes a shaded area that I found useful for stretching pre-workout or cooling down after a strenuous routine. I liked that the rubber surface was easy on the knees, a park feature adults will appreciate.

PRO TIP: Bring bottled water and a towel.

Installed in partnership with Lindsborg Community Heath Care Foundation and the City of Lindsborg, the fitness park aims to promote wellness for residents and visitors of all abilities.

The Fredrickson Family Fitness Park is named after the late Dr. Duane Fredrickson. a family physician, exercise enthusiast, and community volunteer.

4.) PUBLIC ART WALK

Participating in an art walk is one of my favorite ways to increase my step count. One of the best places to do it is along Lindsborg’s downtown area, where murals, Dala horses, and framed outdoor artwork dot the corridor. I discover a new artistic creation during every visit to Main Street, and I find the framed tiled mosaics stunning.

But the art doesn’t need to be limited to only the downtown area. Everywhere you look, it seems like the community celebrates the arts. Look up, check around the corner, walk through a courtyard, and keep your eyes peeled when visiting a park. From wrought iron arches and wood carvings to painted Dala horses and stained glass windows, you’ll find more than one reason to walk the town on foot.

PRO TIP: Lindsborg Art Council hosts Makers Street twice per year. The interactive art walk highlights local artists’ work in shops and galleries and often features music, live performances, and delicious food.

Outdoor art — The second Friday of the month, Main Street in Lindsborg becomes an interactive art walk event, Makers Street.

dala horse — Can you spot each addition to the entire herd of wild data horses in Lindsborg? Pick up a Wild Data Scavenger Hunt sheet inside the Travel Info Center next to Blacksmith Coffee Shop and Roastery.

5.) MAXWELL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Considered one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography, Maxwell Wildlife Refuge (2565 Pueblo Rd.) offers guided tours where nature lovers can admire views of native prairie and wildlife. To locate the park from Lindsborg, drive to Roxbury, north of Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, by 6 miles. Then drive south to Pueblo Road on 27th Avenue (Roxbury intersection, red blinking light) you will then see the park’s signs.

During the 45-minute covered tram tour, visitors view elk, birds, bison (look for baby calves from March through May!), native prairie grasses, and wildflowers. The area is located on the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway, the same area Native Americans and Kansas settlers traveled. Reservations are required three days in advance, and you should review the Tour Calendar before reserving your spot.

PRO TIP: Bring a camera with a telephoto lens to capture clear images of the bison from a distance.

tram ride — Photo courtesy of Visit Lindsborg. Guided tours provide shade from the Kansas sun or rain, plus extraordinary views of the plains. Tour prices are $15/adult, $7.50/child aged 11 and under, and free for children aged 3 and under.

6.) LINDSBORG GOLF COURSE

Discover a hidden gem while road-tripping is the best. Lindsborg Golf Course (1541 Svensk Rd.) is a tucked-away 64 acres, 9-hole municipal course you need to play. Featuring one water hazard and some hilly fairways, the course is easy to moderate in difficulty with tee boxes for men and women. If it’s 55 degrees or warmer, the course is open from 9 am-7 pm.

Taking to the links is a delightful way to enjoy the outdoors while getting exercise at an affordable price. The manicured tee boxes and fairways are in good shape, and the golf cart paths are easy to maneuver. Golfers can purchase balls, tees, snacks, adult-only beverages, or bottled water to fill a cooler inside the clubhouse.

PRO TIP: Check the Weekly Specials calendar to take advantage of discount fees. For example, you can play 18 holes and get a golf cart for $16. Wear soft spike golf shoes or tennis shoes.

golf ball — Open to the public and club members, the golf course plays host to tournaments, scrambles, and invitationals.

golf course tee box — The 9-hole municipal course includes a water hazard and a few hilly fairways.

7.) BROADWAY RFD

Imagine watching actors and singers perform at the park while you relax in a lawn chair, enjoying a summer breeze on a starry night. Broadway RFD (located at Swensson Park’s band shell) is the longest-running outdoor theatre in Kansas. Offering guests quality performances, it’s a special opportunity to appreciate live community theater.

Past productions date back to 1959 and include many well-revered shows, including Oklahoma, The King and I, South Pacific, and Music Man. Ticket sales start in early June and can be purchased online. The ticket prices are affordable, and kids ages 4 or younger get in free.

PRO TIP: Don’t expect a paper ticket. Your name will appear on a guest list at the gate.

band shell — Photo courtesy of Visit Lindsborg

8.) HEMSLOJD QUADRICYCLES

Why not cruise through town on a quadricycle to see the sights while burning calories? After inducing a delicious ice cream cone from Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream, I needed an easy workout. I found renting the two-seat quadricycle simple at Hemslojd Swedish Gifts (201 N. Main St.). A 4-seater Limo rents for $15/30 mins or $24/1 hour. The 2-seater Junior (pictured below) rents for $9/30 mins, $15/1 hour.

You can stroll the downtown area and surrounding paved roads like a car. The quadricycle provides a leisurely way to explore the town without breaking a sweat since both passengers peddle, and only one person steers.

PRO TIP: Consider using hand signals to indicate your intended turns.

quad bike — Made in Europe, the quadricycles are peddled cars providing a rolling town tour.

9.) LINDSBORG SWIMMING POOL

A nearby sand volleyball court is ideal for adults to combine physical fitness and fun.

PRO TIP: View the admission prices here.

swimming pool — Photo courtesy of Visit Lindsborg

10.) YOGA ON THE BRIDGE

I can’t think of a better way to practice mindfulness while exercising than performing yoga. Lindsborg resident Tricia Clark hosts Yoga On the Bridge for people of all experience levels. The Runic Yoga session starts by gathering at the rune stone at Riverside Park (near the covered pavilion) and walking together to the Völkammen Trail bridge. The views of the Smoky Hill River are breathtaking, and the sound of chirping native birds relaxes you. With each guided move, your flexibility, energy, and balance improve.

The $5 session takes place on Mondays at 7 pm. To join a session, contact Tricia by email at tclark@bethelks.edu.

PRO TIP: Wear comfortable workout clothes or yoga attire.

BONUS ACTIVITIES

The town’s parks offer explorers a multitude of opportunities to get some exercise. Swede Sk8 Park is designed for daredevils who want to skateboard, trick bike, rollerblade, or use their scooter. It is located adjacent to the Välkommen Trail and adjacent to Kansas Street.

Swensson Park is home to tennis courts and a basketball court. You’ll find athletic courts, horseshoe pits, and playground equipment at Riverside Park.

Disc golf is a popular sport for outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas, and Bethany Lutheran College’s 9-hole course (340 E. Swensson Ave.) is a no-cost way to play a round. Over 2,000 feet of course, golfers can catch glimpses of gorgeous sculptures on campus. Each hole is a par 3; grass tees and open spaces make the course approachable for beginners. To find Hole 1, walk to the Northwest corner of Gregory Hall.

Another highlight of the course? After the game, you’re within walking distance of Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery (401 N. First St.). Visitor parking is available at designated areas on this map.

Have you heard of geocaching? A treasure hunt using an app to locate a hidden container, participants can enjoy the free outdoor activity at various places in Lindsborg. To start, visit geocaching.com to route your path using coordinates and clues.

Considering staying overnight to take in the rest of the town? Check out my additional post, The Best Way to Spend a Day in Lindsborg, Kansas, aka “Little Sweden, for plenty of things to do, from dining to exploring art galleries to shopping.

A Guide to Great Bend’s Go-To Places

August 16, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Explore Great Bend sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

When you’re looking for fun places to explore in Kansas, all roads should lead you to Great Bend. With an abundance of things to do, especially during a summer festival weekend, there’s never a dull moment. Whether you follow my trip itinerary exactly or use my experience to create your own, you’re going to love Great Bend’s go-to places.

REPERKS COFFEE SHOP

I had the pleasure of starting my Great Bend experience at RePerks Coffee Shop (1216 Main St.) in the heart of downtown. What is it about a coffee shop that seems to calm and center oneself? The smell of the roasted beans. A glass case is full of delectable desserts. Add a friendly barista, and it’s the ultimate start to the day.

RePerks is a local hangout that attracts residents and out-of-towners in search of a scratch-made breakfast served all day. But that’s not all – the lunch and dinner menus promise hearty portions appealing to those who want down-home comforting meals. Known for Fried Chicken Friday and Prime Rib Saturday, the quaint coffee shop will exceed your expectations.

Apparently, I didn’t read the menu close enough because I inadvertently ordered a BLT sandwich for my breakfast meal, but hey, it was delicious. I talked to the owner between bites and learned that they are also building another restaurant on the premises, Teller’s 1972. The steakhouse will open to welcome guests in October 2022.

PARTY IN THE PARK

Wet/Dry Parade

A big draw of visitors to Great Bend during the summer is Party in the Park. With minutes to spare after breakfast, I drove over to Veterans Memorial Park to watch the kickstart of the Wet/Dry Parade. My contact from Explore Great Bend picked me up in a golf cart, and we sped off to position ourselves on the “dry side.”

The town’s first responders led a long trail of trucks and cars pulling floats. Kids sat in truckbeds poised with Supersoaker water blasters ready to spray parade bystanders. But the onlookers also had their own water canons! The energy was palpable as groups took their place on both sides of the railroad’s tracks that separated onlookers.

Later, we decided to drive the golf cart at the tail end of the parade. Just as I thought we were in the clear, an onery firefighter released a firehose in our direction soaking us from head to foot. Needless to say, it was a blast.

Anything That Floats Race

I love a challenge, and clearly, the town’s residents were up for a challenge as well. Multiple teams showed up at the park’s 12-acre lake to compete in the Anything That Floats Race. As each team dropped in their float, you could hear teams ribbing each other in the competitive spirit of the race. Would the town’s police officers win? The mother-son team? Who would take home the trophy?

I laughed as I watched boaters paddle their way through the designated path on the water. It was a lot of fun to watch townies cheer on race participants, especially as “the interns” paddled their way to first place. People gathered on the shore to snap pictures of them with the trophy.

Car Show

Party in the Park’s car show was impressive with over 80 cars and trucks. Don’t you love a car show? If only we could take our pick of the selection and drive off in one, right?

If you’ve never been to a car show, you can expect the owners to sit in chairs behind their vehicles eagerly waiting to answer questions. Take a look inside and under the hood. Imagine yourself cruising down the road with the windows down. It’s the quintessential event of the summer.

VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

The site of the festival, Veterans Memorial Park, offers quite a bit to do any time of year. I took note of a fitness trail, newly added playground, sand volleyball area, baseball parks, paddleboat & kayaks, disc golf course, and tennis courts. I was drawn to the monuments honoring the veterans located near the front entrance, which showcased a tank on display.

disc golf Great Bend — The Great Bend Disc Golf Course at Veterans Memorial Park includes 18 tees and three short tees. Tournaments take place every spring.

The park is large enough that you may want to drive and park your car depending on the areas you choose to explore. With ample shade trees and plenty of parking, you’ll find it easy to navigate to the ideal spot.

HANDLEBAR BAR & GRILL

I was feeling energized after the festival’s morning festivities and ready to eat lunch. Handlebar Bar & Grill (807 10th St.) is open six days a week serving classic sports bar grub with a full bar of cold drinks.

When I pulled into the parking lot and scanned the area for open space, I didn’t find one and instead created my own under a shade tree. Inside, vintage motorcycle helmets and Harley Davidson relics dangled from the ceiling.

The restaurant is incredibly popular with locals who bring their families to dine on everything from buffalo wings and nachos to ribeyes and street tacos. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it on the menu. The Shrimp Po’ Boy hoagie sandwich came recommended, so I didn’t hesitate to order it. The addictive sriracha mayo and crispy breaded shrimp were appetizing.

If you arrive during the peak lunch or dinner hour, expect to wait for a table. If dining alone, it’s easy to snag a seat at the bar. Happy Hour is 4 pm -6 pm Tuesday-Friday. Ask about the bartender’s drink special and the featured menu item.

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

Make the most of a road trip to Great Bend by making your way downtown to shop locally. The first stop? Heart of Kansas Mercantile and Miss Pretty Pickles (1212 and 1214 Main St.).

With a little something for everyone, the Heart of Kansas Mercantile store carries a large selection of home decor and specialty foods made in The Sunflower State. Tables and shelves are stacked with jellies and jams, jarred pickles, candles, kitchen towels, artwork, and more. Walk past the register and you find yourself inside Miss Pretty Pickles, a boutique store that stocks plush toys and children’s clothes.

candle — Kansas Earth & Sky Candle Co. is located in Ellinwood, a 13-minute drive from Great Bend.

Sweet Dreams Candy Shop (1403 Main St.) is a family-owned and operated store specializing in gummy candy, gum, retro hard candy, and flavorful sodas. The smell of sweet treats hits you as you enter the front door. Rows upon rows of brightly colored packaged candy await purchase on store shelves.

I chose to build my own six-pack of cream sodas and root beers to use for an at-home soda flight. If you love fudge, this is the place to shop for it. Loaves of Pecan Turtle, Belgian Chocolate, and Mint Chocolate fudge sit in a glass case ready to be sliced and sold.

Note: At the time of publication, Sweet Dreams Candy Shop was for sale. According to their Facebook page, if a buyer doesn’t take over the store, it will close by December 23, 2022.

Rosewood Wine Cellar (1901 Lakin Ave.) is a shop devoted to vino enthusiasts. Of course, you’ll find a wine tasting bar (free samples!) as well as rows of handcrafted wine bottles for sale, but the store is much more than another retail store. Rosewood Wine Cellar’s products are made or harvested by client-employees with disabilities. Each time you make a purchase at the shop, you sustain employment for them.

The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about the award-winning wines. They carry two dozen varieties of wine that are grown a short drive west of town. I was pleased to discover that they carried dry wines that were not overly sweet. However, if you’re someone who appreciates fruit-forward sweeter wines, you’re in luck. The store is an excellent place to bring a friend or purchase a gift for one.

You won’t leave empty-handed at Rosewood Winery Cellars. The inventory includes jars of gourmet relishes, salsas, honey, crackers, and more. If you’re on the lookout for a housewarming gift for someone, bath products, kitchenware, or aprons make shopping a breeze. Seasonal displays beckon home decor shoppers in search of accessories.

MURALS & SCULPTURES

Calling art lovers! Lace up your sneakers and head out on the Great Bend Mural Walk to see street art created by students, community artists, and professional painters. Several locals encouraged me to find the newest installment by artist Ryan “ARCY” Christensen. Located at the corner of Forest and Williams, the scene is aviation-themed and was partially inspired by a 1940s poster.

Originally from Connecticut, Christensen has painted murals in urban areas across the country. His trademark? He paints a “hidden” Mickey Mouse in all of his murals. Do you see it?

Located nearby, I spotted a brightly colored Kansas landscape painted on the side of a commercial property by artist Melanie Ryan. The scene depicting Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area took up the entire west side of the building and wrapped around its backside. Located five miles north on US Highway 281, Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is a marsh where birdwatchers flock to see shorebirds and waterfowl. In fact, 356 of the 482 species of birds currently known to occur in Kansas have been spotted at Cheyenne Bottoms.

A short drive across downtown led me back to Main Street to view “Starting Line,” a 3,000-square-foot mural serving as the perfect backdrop for race fans. If you’re headed to the dragstrip west of town, make a detour to this mural for a selfie or group photo.

Directly across the same parking lot is another beautiful mural on the side of the building housing Dilly & Doc Creative Studio (1110 Main Street). The paint-your-own creation studio welcomes wannabe artists and hosts private parties.

These large-scale paintings are a small sampling of the new and old ones you’ll discover in the area. For a map and self-guided tour of the murals, reach out to the City of Great Bend at 620-793-4111.

The sculptures outside of Barton County Courthouse in the center of downtown dot the landscape. Great Bend has been the county seat since 1867; however, the courthouse that exists today wasn’t built until 1918. According to its website, “Barton helped to provide medical supplies to soldiers during the Civil War and founded the American Red Cross in 1881.”

Situated in front of the Great Bend Library (1409 Williams Street), you’ll spot sculptures with natural patina. Nestled amongst native grass, shrubs, and river rock, each sculpture depicts children enjoying reading or playing in a garden setting. Go inside the library to inquire about scheduled events such as movie night for adults.

If you’d prefer not to walk or drive to each public art installation, consider renting a free electric scooter. You’ll spot groupings of scooters sitting around the downtown corridor. Simply download The Bird app and take a ride.

Each downtown planter features a hand-painted birdhouse.

PARTY IN THE PARK

In a hurry after viewing public art, I raced back to Veterans Memorial Park to partake in more of the festival’s entertainment. The sun was shining and it was hot. I spotted a shade tent with a crowd of people preparing for an event. It was the annual eating contest.

FRUIT LOOP EATING CONTEST

If you could choose one food to eat in a hurry to beat the clock, what would it be? This year, the festival’s eating contest served a pan of Fruit Loops marshmallow treats and boy were the contestants pumped to compete. After snapping a few photos, I had to look away out of fear of what could happen. The winner was the person I predicted to win. She took her Fruit Loop speed eating responsibilities seriously.

BEST MULLET CONTEST

If you had told me that I was going to serve as a guest judge for Party in the Park’s Best Mullet Contest, I would have immediately raised my hand for a high-five. “Yes!” The hair trend is back, and it was a complete thrill to join others in judging contestants’ hair that screamed: “business in the front, party in the back.”

We asked them questions like “Can you, please turn and move your hair?” and “Where do you get your hair cut?” of each contestant. In the end, each age group’s winner won a trophy and entrance to the festival’s evening live music show and fireworks display. Party on, man!

As judges, we gave points based on the following categories: Length, Quality, Style, Presentation & Flow, and Overall Outfit & Look.

CONCERT IN THE PARK

Rock on! Party in the Park always ends with a live music performance followed by fireworks. This year, Fool House – The Ultimate 90s Dance Party had festival goers jamming in their seats. After the band’s first set, people danced their way to the stage and boogied down to cover hits by the Backstreet Boys, Madonna, Spice Girls, and Blink 182. If attending the annual outdoor concert, tote a collapsable lawn chair and a BYOB cooler.

THE PAGE

Earlier in the day, I appreciated a relaxing dinner at The Page An American Bistro (2920 10th Street). Another local favorite, the inconspicuous restaurant sits directly behind Perkins Restaurant & Bakery. If you blink, you might miss it. For those craving a more upscale meal for a romantic dinner or gathering with friends, The Page is the place.

The ribeye steak came with one choice of vegetable side and complimentary warm rolls with butter. Although I asked for medium rare, my steak was cooked medium. That didn’t take away from the steak’s flavor made better by the herbed butter on top. It also came with a bourbon sweet dipping sauce, but I preferred to stick with the herbed butter. The restaurant’s menu also features burgers, wraps, and pasta dishes.

Before the main course arrived, I devoured a dinner salad and sipped a glass of Kendall Jackson Chardonnay. The bar has a decent selection of wines including the town’s ever-popular Rosewood Cellars selections. House wine by the glass is $6.

The dining room is small in size so once it’s full, chatter from other tables creates white noise as diners enjoy their meal underneath a wall of TVs broadcasting sporting events. I recommend arriving early to beat the dinner rush.

BRIT SPAUGH ZOO

During the early morning house of Day 2 of my Great Bend adventure, I drove to Brit Spaugh Park for a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo (2200 Main Street). Regular zoo-goers know that the best time to catch most of the animals active is during the breakfast hour. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

The zoo features species from all over the world. Unlike some small town zoos I’ve toured, Brit Spaugh Zoo impresses with the number of mammals on-site. Big cats, grizzly bears, and monkeys keep it interesting. Animal lovers in search of wild birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates will find it equally impressive.

I observed several grizzly bears in a tall grass habitat lounging on rocks and inside a man-made pond. The siblings played with one another and splashed around under the waterfall providing an opportunity to observe the bears’ natural behavior. Later, I was given the chance to use a slingshot to toss apple slices to them, which they happily enjoyed. Would you feed a bear if given a chance? Watch a video of the experience here.

Another amazing animal encounter was when I had the privilege of meeting a Great Horned Owl named Thurston. Raised in captivity since it was a baby on a Kansas farm, it wasn’t skittish around humans. In fact, I stood six feet from it as it mimicked the sounds a zookeeper called to it. It mimicked clucking sounds like a chicken! Today, Thurston comes along for zoo presentations to school children and small groups.

The sister lions in the photo below took an interest in me. Perhaps it was because I was tagging along with a zookeeper. Whatever the reason, it was fascinating watching them sun themselves and flick their tails. The male African lion was inside a building out of sight, but I heard that he is large for his size and most certainly dominates his territory.

After winding your way through the zoo (look for the colorful murals painted by school children!), head inside to check out the reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates housed in aquariums. The education center consists of informative displays to aid visitors in understanding the life of raptors. If you’re lucky, you may see a veterinarian at work on the other side of the display window.

Overall, you’ll find the zoo’s animals awe-inspiring and the staff to be cordial. They welcome school groups if reservations are booked in advance. Please consider making a donation near the cashier’s counter inside the gift shop. A surprise awaits those who choose to drop in bills or coins inside the box.

BONUS PLACES TO VISIT IN GREAT BEND

GREAT BEND COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Great Bend Community Theatre is an Art Deco architecture wonder in the center of town. Plan a stop at Rosewood Wine Cellar and then head next door to watch a live theatre production. View the current season’s upcoming show calendar here.

BRIT SPAUGH PARK

Looking for a place to splash in a pool on a hot summer’s day or take the kids to run around on playground equipment? Brit Spaugh Park (2303 Main Street) near the zoo is the ideal location. Wetland Waterpark is open for the season on the Saturday before Memorial Day. With plenty of areas to retreat from the sun, parents can watch as kids take to the slides or play under the tipping bucket.

You’ll also discover a Santa Fe train engine on full display near the entrance. The town was home to an Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railway station at one time served as a connection between Los Angeles and Chicago.

The park is also home to softball fields, horseshoe courts, picnic shelters, and a skateboarding arena.

LODGING

It’s always nice to put down your bags after time on the road. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Great Bend (3821 10th Street) set the tone of a fabulous road trip the moment I arrived. The front desk staff was eager to welcome me to town and tell me about the accommodations. Located on 10th Street, a major highway through town, it’s an ideal place to stay overnight for its proximity to attractions like the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, Brit Spaugh Zoo, and the Wetlands Water Park.

hotel room — My fourth floor window view was the ideal spot to watch Party in the Park’s illuminating fireworks display while enjoying the air conditioning.

My king suite room was spacious enough for two people to enjoy and included copious amenities. I set down my bags and gave myself a tour noting a fully equipped mini kitchen complete with a refrigerator and single-serve coffeemaker. Near the hotel’s lobby, you can enjoy a free self-serve breakfast in the lobby every morning. An indoor swimming pool, 24-hour fitness center, and on-site business center provide all that you’ll want and need during your stay.

The room was complete with furnishings and plenty of room to relax, which is what I was seeking after a long day exploring Great Bend. The hotel was bustling with families visiting for a wedding party, but I didn’t hear a sound once in my room. The peace and quiet were delightful.

During a return visit to Great Bend, I hope to spend time at Dry Lake Brewing (1305 Main Street). Unfortunately, it wasn’t open before I had to leave for home. You know me – I love craft beer! I’ll add it to my bucket list of places to check out the next time I’m in town.

So much had changed since my childhood visit to Great Bend. It’s more than just another Kansas town surrounded by farm fields. Located 95 miles outside of northwest Wichita, it is worth the two-hour drive.

You can expect to be wow-ed by its attractions, summer festival, and restaurant and shopping scene. The downtown corridor has a delightful surprise around every corner. Are you ready to experience it for yourself?

Fun Things to Do in Greensburg, Kansas During an Overnight Stay

July 13, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Visit Greesnburg sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Greensburg isn’t just another small Kansas town on the map. Far from it. It’s a community made up of residents who care for one another. It was their resilience that rebuilt the town after an EF-5 tornado demolished 95% of Greensburg on May 4, 2007.

Today, the town is a flourishing community consisting of tourism-worthy attractions, shopping, and dining. It’s time you visit Greensburg.

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.

I found the town a charming place to spend an overnight trip. My first stop? One of 8 Wonders of Kansas!

DAY 1

THE BIG WELL MUSEUM & VISITORS CENTER

The Big Well Museum & Visitors Center (315 S. Sycamore St.) World’s Largest Hand-Dug Well is a must-see attraction to add to your travel bucket list. I was amazed by its impressive size. Down, down, down…109 feet! Visitors can walk down into the well via a sturdy staircase to get a closer look. Three million visitors visit one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas to descend into its depths and/or toss a penny to the bottom.

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 Big Well Museum, you can also learn more about the town’s history pre and post-EF5 tornado that changed the lives of residents. A historical timeline telling the story of the night the tornado struck and the events afterward surrounds the space. Visual displays, artifacts, and video testimonials give context. I met residents who spoke of “before and after the tornado.” Want to learn more about the fateful day? The visitor’s center is the best place to start your exploration of Greensburg to truly understand the gravity of that night in 2007.

Another fact worth noting about the museum is that it is the home of the largest pallasite on display, the Space Wanderer, weighing 100o pounds. The meteorite is from the same shower as another meteorite found in the same area in 2005.

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 here. If you’re driving an electric vehicle, you can recharge its battery at one of several charging stations in the parking lot.

EXPLORING GREENSBURG BY BIKE

I used one of the museum’s complimentary bikes to explore Greensburg and some of the 15 stops listed on the Green Tour map (available inside the museum, or you can download the app).

Stop 4 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.

At this moment, I realized the enormity of the tornado’s devastation. Most of the town consists of new homes and buildings, but during the self-guided tour, you will notice a few old homes remain.

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.

Visit the park at night to see “The Beacon” illuminated. The cylindrical sculpture commemorates the 10th anniversary of the Greensburg tornado. Read the quote on it.

TWILIGHT THEATRE & COMMUNITY AUDITORIUM

You’ve never seen a theatre like the Twilight Theatre & Community Auditorium (200 S. Main St.). It is the largest one-screen movie theatre with Dolby 7 sound between Wichita and Denver.

George, the theatre’s super friendly manager, welcomed me just as he does all theatre guests with a “Hello! How are you today?” As we chatted about the theatre’s features (400 seats!), the sound of popcorn popping and kids begging for candy could be heard.

Locals told me that the theatre’s Monster Mushroom Popcorn was delicious. George graciously gave me a bag of popcorn to try. No words can describe how scrumptious and dangerously addictive it tastes.

As I sat enjoying my popcorn in the lobby on a couch flanked by framed movie posters, I watched as residents greeted one another in the lobby. From the refreshment counter, they shuttled kids into the theater for a showing of Jurassic World Domination.

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.

PRO TIP: View the theatre’s hours and event schedule before visiting.

LUNCH AT KOOK’S MEAT & DELI

Kook’s Meat (115 W. Kansas Ave.) is where the locals go once, sometimes twice a day, to drink coffee and enjoy a delicious meal with friends. Part butcher shop, part deli, Kook’s serves heaping plates of meaty sandwiches and burgers. I ordered the Patty Melt with a trip to the salad bar for lunch.

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.

The conversation is free. But if you drop a swear word, expect to deposit money into the Swear Jar. Oh, and be mindful of where you sit. Some seating is reserved for first-responders and diehard diners. Expect the second wave of locals to arrive for a fresh pot of coffee at 2 pm.

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.

ONE-OF-A-KIND SHOPPING

Starla’s Stitch & Frame (122 S. Main Street) offers shoppers custom-made framing to beautify their photos and artwork. The opposite side of the retail shop caters to stitchers searching for embroidery supplies and finished pieces to use as wall art. People drive from miles around to stock up on supplies or get artwork framed.

Where’d Find That Antiques (148 S. Main) isn’t your typical antique shop. It’s organized by theme, clean, and the inventory includes treasures you won’t find elsewhere. Voted by Best Things Kansas as one of the top six antique stores in the Sunflower State, it’s worth a visit when shopping for collectibles. The owners are delightful and eager to help you find what you’re looking for.

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.

Turquoise Ranch Boutique (300 W. Kansas) is one-stop shopping for “clothing and more in a western decor.” The latest in apparel with vintage, Texas-inspired style. Dresses, boots, jewelry, animal print shoes, you name it, you’ll find it. Aside from women’s clothing, the store carries a selection of menswear and kids’ clothing. Cowboy up!

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 The Class Room.

5.4.7 ARTS CENTER

The building’s exterior caught my eye when I drove into town. 5.4.7. Arts Center (204 W. Wisconsin Ave.), a gallery and fine arts center, is a work of art itself. It was designed by University of Kansas architecture students using sustainable materials giving it LEED platinum status.

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 Andi Burnum. Her collage art, made of tiny strips of magazine pages, spoke to my love of both mediums. Her illustrations of cows and dogs living their best life made me chuckle.

PRO TIP: Inquire about art classes and workshops designed for all ages.

MULLINVILLE

My trip host drove me to Mullinville, Kansas (10 miles west of Greensburg) on a mission to show off two roadside attractions that more visitors need to see. As the car approached the last corner of town off Highway 400, I saw it, or should I say, all of it.

MT Liggett Art Environment (119 N. Elm) preserves the work of the Kansas folk artist, MT Liggett, who worked with metal to craft sculptures on his 70 acres of farm property.

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.

PRO TIP: Create your version of eccentric artwork using the supplies from the Make Your Own Sculpture box in the gallery. Perhaps a heart-themed piece?

FROMME-BIRNEY BARN (3.5 miles South, 1 3/4 miles west of Mullinville) is a roadside gem. People seem to have an affinity for historic round barns, so they travel from miles around to see this one and sign the guestbook. It’s an 8 Wonder of Kansas Architecture for a good reason.

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.

Restored in 1995, people often reserve it for weddings and gatherings. I recommend walking upstairs for an awe-inspiring look at the incredible craftsmanship of the barn’s rooftop.

PRO TIP: Visitors can tour the barn for free. Go during the day, as outdoor lighting is limited.

LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS

I was ready to check into my hotel and take a short break before enjoying evening activities in town. The Best Western Plus Night Watchman Inn & Suites (515 W. Kansas Ave.) is a highly-rated hotel with the relaxing amenities travelers need.

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.

PRO TIP: Check-in is 3:00 pm, check-out is 11:00 am.

KIOWA COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM & SODA FOUNTAIN

For me, the best way to truly understand a town and the people who founded it is to visit a historical museum. The Kiowa Historical Museum houses local artifacts, timelines, and video displays. Carve out at least 30 minutes or more to experience it.

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 Hunter Drug soda fountain near the museum’s entrance. 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. If traveling with kids, the outdoor area is a nice tucked-away spot to watch koi fish swimming in the pond.

PRO TIP: Feeling super hungry and perhaps a little adventurous? 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.

KIOWA COUNTY LIBRARY

The Kiowa County Library (320 S. Main) is only a few steps from the soda fountain. I found it a delightful place to relax and stay cool from the summer heat while perusing books and magazines. I appreciated the handcrafted diorama of Fromme-Birney Round Barn and the historical photographs on display at the library’s entrance.

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.

CRAZY MULE RESTAURANT

Where do you go when you want a hearty, home-cooked meal? Crazy Mule Restaurant (106 Kansas Ave.) serves Kansas classics like beef noodles over potatoes and steak dinners. I chose the Country Fried Steak with a trip to the salad bar for my dinner meal with a towering glass of iced tea. Other options on the menu range from burgers and sandwiches to pork chops and brisket. Dining for breakfast? They serve it all day.

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.

PRO TIP: Check the restaurant’s Facebook page for the daily buffet special.

DAY 2

After a grab-and-go breakfast at the hotel, I checked out of the hotel, ready for more adventures. My travel host arranged for us to have a personalized tour of USD 422’s school building. Why? It isn’t your typical school building.

KIOWA COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

The residents of Greenwich had to build a new school after the tornado destroyed most of the town. USD 422 is the first LEED Platinum K-12 school facility in the United States, a recognition that is well-deserved because of thoughtful planning and design by Kansas City-based architects.

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 home of the Mavericks, I recommend you do so. It’s an interesting tour showcasing how designing for sustainability and longevity is possible.

PRO TIP: Take a few minutes to stand in front of the framed panoramic photograph adjacent to the school’s common area. It shows the town’s devastation and serves as a reminder of the community’s resilience.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

City parks beautify the town in several locations. In town, families use modern playground equipment and picnic tables when spending a day outdoors. If you like disc golf, Davis Park (600 E. Kansas) is the place to ring chains. The park has two picnic shelters, plenty of shade, playground equipment, and RV electric hookups.

Greensburg’s city pool lets locals and visitors cool off from the sun’s rays. Admission is $2 per person per day. For its size, the pool impresses with slides for big kids and water features young kids will appreciate.

PRO TIP: Check the pool’s Facebook page for upcoming events like Night Swim or Pooch Plunge.

CANNONBALL BAR & GRILL

My tour of Greensburg was ending, but not before I dined at Cannonball Bar & Grill (801 E. Kansas Ave.). The parking lot was active, and locals walked in the door when I arrived for lunch. People waited for to-go orders.

Seated at a booth with a window view, the waitress told me Chicken Fried Chicken Sandwich with Sidewinder Fries was the day’s special. I ate every bite. I was tempted to order a scratch-made slice of pie from the reach-in refrigerator, but I was too full from the hearty lunch plate. My advice? Split a meal and order the dessert.

PRO TIP: The restaurant is closed Sunday-Tuesday. View the restaurant’s hours here. If the neon Open sign is blinking, go on in. Local bands, a pool table, and a jumping jukebox make Cannonball an entertaining place to go on a Friday or Saturday night.

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.

Cool Places to Visit In Colby, Kansas

August 29, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

No two Kansas towns are alike and Colby is definitely one-of-a-kind. I was excited for an afternoon of exploring having heard only good things about The Oasis on the Plains. I turned off of KS I-70 at Exit 54 to check it out for myself.

Colby’s Visitor’s Center (350 S. Range Road, Suite 10) is quite the sight. A grain bin is part of its architectural design, a nod to the progressive agricultural community. I had the pleasure of meeting one of the town’s longtime residents who worked there. Ralph was a wealth of knowledge about the town’s history. We talked for at least an hour.

In the late 1800s, homesteaders built sod homes on railroad land not far from the original post office. The town is named after Joseph R and Mary J Colby. They ran a boarding house, and Joseph was a part-time preacher. Later, a general store was built, serving as the town’s first merchant. A major contributor to the town’s growth, the Union Pacific Railroad and farming brought jobs to the area and increased the town’s population. The agriculture industry thrives in Colby, producing wheat, corn, milo, and sunflowers.

Why should you take a detour from the highway to Colby? There are a lot of cool places to visit in this western Kansas town.

The Prairie Museum of Art and History (1905 S. Franklin Ave.) is one of Colby’s best places to explore. All of its collections tell the story of the lifestyle of the high plains, and many of the artifacts were donated by local families. I recommend starting the museum tour inside the building and then walking outdoors to the 1930s homestead and barn, one-room schoolhouse, sod house, and to view the Cooper Barn up close.

The indoor galleries include eight collections ranging from priceless collectors’ items to local high school memorabilia. The house you see below anchors the “High Plains Journeys” exhibit. It’s tall enough that visitors of all ages can tour it.

“A Little This, A Lotta That” exhibit includes items from Joe and Nellie Kuska. She was a Colby school teacher who devoted her entire life to collecting glass, coins, furniture, toys, dolls, and more. Joseph and Nellie eventually moved to California and opened a museum, but now the collection is on display for visitors of The Prairie Museum to enjoy. Of all of her belongings, I was enamored by her collection of glass pieces. Having visited the Corning Museum of Glass and the Wichita Art Museum’s collection of glass, this exhibit easily competed with them regarding the quality of singular pieces.

The exhibit “Over Here Over There” stopped me in my tracks. The case you see below houses uniforms from different military branches worn by Thomas County residents dating back to WWI. Looking closely, you will see a white badge on each uniform identifying the soldier who wore it. Some of the badges also include a photo that personalized the story.

Beyond the museum’s doors is a campus of historical buildings worth checking out. I spent a little under an hour touring them. The yellow house pictured below, owned by the Eller family, is significant because it is one of the earliest homes built in Colby in 1903. The family purchased the home three years later. I was surprised to walk inside and find a fully furnished home – even the piano in the living room had sheet music on display. A home tour revealed the story of rural life in the 1930s.

The one-room schoolhouse, aka “Nicol School,” serves as a time capsule to an earlier time. Schoolhouses in Thomas County closed when school consolidation took place. Walking into the District #15 building gives you an idea of what almost 100 schoolhouses across Kansas looked like at the time. I noticed that the schoolhouse didn’t have a bell atop its roof to allow the teacher to alert students to return to class after recess. Did she use the bell on the desk?

Colby is known for its hardworking farmers, so it was no surprise to find antique farming equipment on site. According to kfb.org, one farmer feeds 168 people. Farmers and ranchers receive only 19 cents of every dollar spent on food eaten at home and away from home. Farm fields as far as the eye can see greet visitors to Colby along KS I-70.

A major reason for my visit to Colby was to step foot inside The Cooper Barn. The largest barn in Kansas stands 66′ wide, 114′ long, and 48′ high. Voted one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Architecture, I had to look inside. I drew back one of the barn doors. The interior was impeccably clean. The first floor’s exhibit, “Agriculture on the High Plains: High Dry,” encourages visitors to imagine farming during water scarcity. What’s on the third floor? You’ll have to see it for yourself when you visit Colby.

Lone Star Church is a quiet space to collect your thoughts and enjoy a bit of solitude while on the museum’s grounds. Built in 1915, it was brought from Gem, Kansas to its current location. Visitors to the sanctuary will appreciate its stained glass windows and restored woodwork. Would you ring the church bell?

After wrapping up my tour of the Prairie Museum, I made the short drive to one of the town’s biggest attractions, Colby Aquatic Park (1610 S. Franklin Ave.) Locals appreciate it for its water slides, lazy river, and friendly lifeguards. “The Oasis on the Plains” knows how to bring paradise to its residents and visitors. It’s open seven days a week, offering swimmers relief from the sweltering Kansas sun.

Colby’s pride and joy these days is its newest attraction, the Colby Event Center (1200 S. Franklin Ave.). The massive structure opened in 2021, and I was game for a visit. Before heading into the main gym, I peeked into a nearby office to meet the staff. I was met by a friendly employee who was excited to show me a country concert video on his phone taken earlier in the week. The stands were full, and the crowd was singing along. With seating up to 3,000 people, it is a premiere venue space. To view upcoming events at the center, click this link.

After touring the state-of-the-art event venue, I decided to check out a store in town that I heard rave reviews about, Maevis & Magpie (1005 E 4th St.). One step inside, and I knew I was in trouble. I was in heaven! The boutique is an epicenter for rustic farmhouse and primitive home decor. But it isn’t like other stores of its kind in Kansas. It has not one but two buildings filled to the brim with reasonably priced items.

The photo below is of the boutique’s second building, which mostly features kitchen and dining room items. Garden lovers will appreciate the animal statuary and botanical stems. Calligraphy signs are tucked neatly into vignettes. Who doesn’t need a little sign that reads, “If you had to choose between tacos every day or being thin forever, would you choose hard or soft?” The shopping fun continues in Maevis & Magpie’s main building, where final transactions are made.

The store has a space devoted to lounging and enjoying confections, ice cream, and cold drinks. Brightly colored booths line the wall, and jars of retro candies tempt shoppers to stock up on their favorites. I bet it also doubles as a great place to keep the kids happy while Mom shops until her heart’s content.

With bags of home decor finds in my car, I drove to the ever-popular City Limits Bar and Grill (2227 S. Range Ave.) for lunch. Surprisingly, the restaurant was tucked away behind Colby’s popular highway rest stop. Palm trees welcomed me as I entered the parking lot, an Oasis on the Plains!

City Limits Bar & Grill (2227 S Range Ave.) was recommended by a couple of Colby residents. The owner, Keith O’Dell, is also the head chef, and he is known for serving delicious meals consistently. On this day, he was also my server. He handed me a lunch menu and told me about the all-you-can-eat soup and salad buffet. I chose to dine on bottomless bowls of chicken noodle soup with heaping helpings of salad. The restaurant is a must-stop for travelers driving on KS I-70 who don’t want to travel downtown for a meal. Other lunch menu items included burgers, chicken tenders, and hand-cut top sirloin. The food is downright delicious.

With time to spare before heading to Goodland, I drove back into town to relax at Fike Park, located north of the courthouse. The park, named after a one-time town mayor, was breathtaking.

It includes over nine acres of manicured lawns and oversized trees. During my visit, I followed a winding sidewalk to check out the public art installations only to spy a man practicing juggling at the basketball court. Children giggled as they ran to nearby playground equipment. It was a happy space.

For me, a highlight of the park was capturing photos of its remarkable art installations. I appreciated how a chainsaw artist took what was most likely a dying tree and transformed it into a work of art.

A second masterpiece caught my eye. It was a mini Statue of Liberty similar to the one I had seen in downtown Hays, Kansas. She stood with poise, welcoming park visitors at one corner of the lawn. It is one of the 25 Statue of Liberty replicas in Kansas. The tiny Lady Liberty statues were placed in public spaces by the Boy Scouts of America for their 40th anniversary.

The clock was ticking, and I needed to get back on the road, but my day in Colby was made better by the many cool things to do in town. I can’t wait to return to shop on Main Street and dine at B’Hive Bar & Grill next time. Can I convince my new friend Ralph from the Visitor’s Center to join me for dinner?