Disclosure: Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau sponsored my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine.
Hiawatha, Kansas, known as the City of Beautiful Maples, is considered one of the oldest towns, dating to 1857.
But Hiawatha’s most notable title is that it is the town most deserving of your visit.
Fall is the most popular time to visit for its vibrant foliage, though this Northeast Kansas town offers plenty to do year-round.
It’s a picturesque town you should experience firsthand overnight, with downtown shopping, dining, and a tranquil lakeside cabin that will make you want to stay longer.
Use this travel guide to plan your Hiawatha experience, whether you’re visiting for one of its festivals or lodging overnight for the weekend.
Hiawatha, Kansas: Things to Do During an Overnight Stay
Make Time for Glamping
The Country Cabin
If you’re like me, you love the outdoors but prefer a cabin to a tent. The Country Cabin (2534 Kestrel Rd.) offers the tranquility you seek without the hassle of managing camping gear.
Each of the four reservable cabins includes private parking, heating and air conditioning, a kitchen, and sleeps up to four guests. Towels, coffee, and a television with Roku® are provided.
I spent two nights in Cabin 1 within walking distance of The Country Cabin restaurant and a fish-stocked lake. It felt like glamping under the stars, surrounded by the comforts of home. Crickets chirped. The sun set over a panoramic view of the lake.
I arrived for my dinner reservation just as locals descended on the restaurant for Friday evening Happy Hour and the Prime Rib dinner special.
Presented with a bonus food menu featuring fall selections, I chose to savor a glass of cabernet with Brussels sprouts and leeks tossed with apples, bacon, blue cheese, and balsamic dressing.
The Brown Sugar Pork Chop with red skin mashed potatoes and “cabin style” asparagus surpassed my expectations of presentation and quality. Each plated entree leaving the kitchen and presented to nearby diners looked consistently well-plated and delicious.
For dessert, I relished each bite of Carrot Cake Cobbler, sipping a Bourbon Smash cocktail and catching glimpses of the lake through the table-side window.
The Country Cabin has been on my travel bucket list for years, and I hope to return, as it is one of those experiences you can’t wait to repeat.
NOTE: Cabins are not pet-friendly. Restaurant reservations are highly recommended.
Dine Where the Locals Go
In town, there are plenty of places to sip and savor local fare. Start your day at a cafe and end it with a sweet treat after dinner.
October Coffee
October Coffee (402 Oregon St.) deserves a place amongst some of the best small-town cafes in Kansas for its specialty coffee menu and scratch-made baked goods.
Open Tuesday through Friday, a short line forms at the register where locals order house-roasted coffee with breakfast.
Sure, you can order a to-go coffee if in a rush, but you’ll want to sit down and relax for a while to savor a quality cup of coffee from globally sourced beans. The upstairs lounge is small but inviting, with high-speed Wi-Fi and board games available.
You can’t go wrong with a scratch-made cinnamon roll or muffin served warm with a latte. I recommend asking about their seasonal drink specials. They also serve lunch.
New China Restaurant
Cars arrive and park in front of New China Restaurant (723 Oregon St.) as it opens for the day. Locals are eager to enjoy the lunch buffet.
After waiting to be seated, I chose not to join the buffet crowd waiting for the lunch selections to be refilled and instead ordered a made-to-order broccoli and beef entree. Served steaming hot with crab rangoon, it was satisfying, with umami flavor from soy sauce.
Guests watched Family Feud on a modest television. As soon as a table cleared, they seated more people.
The Hiawatha Creamery
A visit to town is not complete without stopping at The Hiawatha Creamery (725 Oregon St.) for a scoop of hard or soft-serve premium ice cream.
Opened in 2022, the sweet shop’s menu specialties, like ice cream nachos served on waffle chips, often come from recipes created by high school-aged employees.
You can choose from a line-up of 24 rotating Wisconsin-made ice cream flavors served traditionally or with cold brew concentrate from October Coffee.
The Hiawatha Creamery continues the town’s long-standing tradition of serving quality ice cream year-round, weekends only.
Prices are purposely affordable. Employees are happy you’re there.
Enjoy Some Retail Therapy
Hiawatha, a town of slightly more than 3,000 residents, has several boutiques and specialty stores.
Mainstreet Flower Shoppe
Mainstreet Flower Shoppe (713 Oregon St.) should be your first stop for chocolate truffles, home decor, gift-worthy items, and, of course, fresh floral arrangements.
‘You can expect to see brands such as Rabbit Creek®, Nora Fleming®, and Eat My Socks Kids® items artfully displayed with seasonal decor front and center.
PRO TIP: Don’t leave without purchasing decadent chocolate truffles, the perfect road trip treat.
Blue Byrds Creativity Room
Blue Byrds Creativity Room (715 Oregon St.) lives up to its name.
Its inventory includes hand-crafted gifts created by ten vendors, from totes and tumblers to whimsical jewelry.
The creative spirit inspired the owner to add a seasonal menu of coffee drinks plus a daily lunch special. Because who doesn’t need homemade cinnamon rolls and chili, right?
Wright’s Eclectibles
For more than a decade, Wright’s Eclectibles (709 Oregon St.) has offered shoppers a chance to curate unique, nostalgic items from an inventory of antiques and collectibles.
Ornate glassware tries to dominate the selection, but organized tables and shelves of vinyl records, kitchen tools, and antique tools compete for space.
You’re bound to find a relic that reminds you of your childhood. At the very least, don’t leave without purchasing a bottle of Hiawatha Maple Syrup.
Faith + Foliage
Shop Faith + Foliage (708 Oregon St.) for houseplants, faith-based books and gifts, jams, jellies, and other inspired-living items.
The downtown boutique is an extension of Wolf River Nursery, a garden center and greenhouse located an 8-minute drive outside of town.
Wolf River Nursery
Drive south on Highway 73 to Wolf River Nursery (1460 195th St.) to stock up on gorgeous, flowing hanging baskets of plants and flowers.
During my autumn visit, rows of bountiful mums in a variety of orange, red, and yellow colors lined the sidewalks.
Large wind chimes, bulk vegetable seeds, container posts, and garden tools round out the garden center’s inventory.
With more than 25 years of experience, the owners are skilled at answering customers’ questions during peak gardening season.
PRO TIP: Attend the Spring Open House the last Saturday in April to shop, enter prize giveaways, and savor local food.
Just For You Jewelry & Gifts
Fashion and fine jewelry. Children’s toys and gifts. Puzzles. Collegiate gear. Women’s blouses. You’ll find it all and more at Just for You Jewelry and Gifts (620 Oregon St.).
It’s the best place in town to purchase Hiawatha Red Hawks merchandise, from magnets to earrings.
The employees are cheerful, and like me, you’ll likely leave with a keepsake to remember good times in Hiawatha.
Oak & Willow
Creating an outfit with the latest fashions is easy for women at Oak & Willow (618 Oregon Street). The style of apparel is classic and feminine, with separates that are easy to pair in sizes from small to extra-large.
I thumbed through racks of puffy-sleeve blouses, wide-leg pants, and Risen® jeans.
If you love to dress it up for an occasion, you’ll find rompers and free-flowing dresses. Moms with little girls will appreciate a selection of accessories.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss the clearance rack at the back of the store.
Sarah Kathryn’s Quilts
If hand-sewing quilts is a hobby that brings you joy, shop Sarah Kathryn’s Quilts (518 Oregon St.) for fabric and supplies.
Pre-cut fabric bundles. Notions. Quilting kits. You’ll find it all toward the rear of the store.
The front half of the store is a retail space resembling part antique store, part Hobby Lobby. So even if you don’t need quilting supplies, you’re likely to find bakeware or seasonal decorations that appeal to you.
PRO TIP: Ask about Chester’s fabric bundles named after the shop’s cat.
Uncover History Around Town
Hiawatha City Hall – 2nd Floor
Locals visit Hiawatha City Hall (701 Oregon St.) to pay a utility bill or apply for a permit. Visitors walk upstairs to learn more about Brown County and the township’s history.
An impressive, modest collection of antiques occupies a portion of the upstairs area.
I appreciated the mural, painted by local artist Ron Allerton, portraying Brown County’s agricultural roots. Painted during the Kansas Centennial year, 1961, it is an oil painting on cotton duck canvas.
Brown County Historical Society Museum
Take a deeper dive into history at the Brown County Historical Society Museum (611 Utah), a treasure trove of tucked-away relics.
Open by appointment, the building itself is awe-inspiring. Built in 1920, it has served as a community gathering space for Hiawatha Area Arts and Theatre Society performances.
People don’t realize that its basement houses rare finds organized by theme. Volunteers worked endless hours to create the museum.
A soda fountain counter, high school letter jackets, an antique letterpress, old photographs, and more are just a few of the must-see items.
Brown County Agricultural Museum and Windmill Lane
The historical museum tour continues at the Brown County Agricultural Museum and Windmill Lane (301 E. Iowa St.).
Admittedly a city girl, I find it fascinating to see antique tractors and learn how farming equipment was used back in the day.
The site resembles a 1900s farmstead, with a schoolhouse, milking barn, and corn-threshing area. The best view of Windmill Lane is from the second-story patio of the new event center, which is also the prime spot to view fireworks on Independence Day.
More than 40 windmills and wind chargers line a country road surrounded by cornfields, making for a unique photo backdrop. Museum tours are available by appointment.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss Corn Picking Days in mid-October that include hands-on activities at no cost.
Davis Memorial at Mount Hope Cemetery
Make the short drive to Mount Hope Cemetery (606 E. Iowa St.) on the outskirts of town to view the Davis Memorial, a finalist for the Kansas Sampler’s 8 Wonders of Kansas.
The granite and marble memorial was erected by Hiawatha farmer John Davis after his wife Sarah’s death in 1930.
Some people think the memorial was a misuse of Davis’ savings that could have funded a hospital. No matter your viewpoint, most will agree its design is extravagant and verges on creepy.
PRO TIP: Use the electronic kiosk to locate Elizabeth Krebs’s grave, the mother of Halloween in Hiawatha. Theodore H. T.J. Korthanke, one of the town’s founding fathers, is buried there as well.
Korthanke Fountain
Hiawatha is known for its abundant maple trees, and one man, T.J. Korthanke, is responsible for it.
Locals admired the stunning hard maple tree on his farm, which inspired him to plant the tree’s seeds, creating a seedling grove available for locals to care for as their own.
The Korthanke Fountain sits between the firehouse and police station on Oregon Street.
Murals
I discovered about a half dozen murals painted in the downtown area, and each one included imagery depicting Hiawatha’s industries.
One in particular was created to honor a Hiawatha native and war hero, Homer White, who “died as he lived, an honest and good man.”
Experience an Annual Festival
Maple Leaf Festival
My first Hiawatha Maple Leaf Festival is in the books. The town goes all in, bringing endless vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment to downtown on the third Saturday of September.
The one-day festival coincides with homecoming weekend, so alums return to participate in the activities at the downtown square. Local museums are open and free to the public.
I’ve experienced many community festivals, and this one is one of the best because of the number of vendors and the variety of entertainment.
Kids jumped excitedly in bouncy houses, several climbed a rock wall, and others eagerly waited in line for sweet treats. The smell of kettle corn filled the air, and a local band played as families mingled while eating food truck fare.
The town also hosts Hiawatha Halloween Frolic, the oldest continuous Halloween parade and festival in the United States, on October 31.
During Christmastime, don’t miss the Festival of Lights and Holiday Homes Tour.
Choose Leisurely Outdoor Activities
Brown County Courthouse Square Trees
Take a stroll around the Brown County Courthouse grounds to admire the dozens of mature trees. Each one in the collection is labeled at its base, identifying the type of tree. And yes, you’ll find maple trees amongst others.
I escaped a rainstorm under the trees’ canopy and ventured into the courthouse for a self-guided tour until the storm passed.
Hiawatha City Lake
Hiawatha City Lake, located one mile south of town on US Hwy 73, is a bonus recreational area worth checking out if you want to play nine holes of disc golf or play volleyball. Bring your rod and reel to fish for channel catfish.
Hiawatha Walking Trail
Hiawatha is a health-minded community. You’ll appreciate the paved 2.4-mile walking trail.
Park at Fisher Center (201 E. Iowa St.) and then embark on the trail, which winds past a skate park, Kiddle Korral playground, and beyond Noble Ball Park.
Hiawatha is an inviting getaway for solo travelers, couples, or families seeking the charm of Northeast Kansas. I adored my time there and hope to return next year.
Whether you’re in town for a lively community celebration or settling in for a leisurely weekend, you’ll find plenty to see, do, and enjoy, along with a warm welcome at every turn.
And if you want to explore nearby communities, use my travel guides for Seneca, Holton, and Atchison.
From big items like old handmade furniture and saddles to delicate antique glassware and jewelry, 
Serious shoppers will want to devote at least an hour or more to scanning shelving and peering into glass cases at 
Two store employees quickly asked me if there was anything they could help me find, but I wasn’t in search of anything specific. Because the store’s vast collection can seem overwhelming upon entry, it may help to preview featured items on the 
Some of the booths’ owners did an excellent job of displaying items by theme, and I was surprised to find handcrafted items like unique lamps or embroidered tee towels nestled amongst antiques.
PRO TIP: Ask about layaway options if you want to add an investment piece to your collection.
PRO TIP: The charming store, located in a historic building, is an antiquity. Walk to the back of the store and look up at the tin ceiling and architecture.
The darkroom was left untouched, including images drying on a clothesline. 
Although I didn’t visit during one of those events, I still found it worthwhile to tour. Beyond the “main street,” it includes the Grove Ill Schoolhouse relocated from the Lincoln Township. A 1859 settler’s cabin is also a noteworthy sight.
PRO TIP: Ask about their latest addition to the baked goods line-up, miniature homemade pies. The day’s menu special is written on a wall chalkboard.
I happily devoured my lunch while watching customers order at the counter and grab a seat at tables and a nearby couch. Surrounded by music-themed artwork, I felt relaxed as I enjoyed vintage rock music.
PRO TIP: If you’re a sports fan, M&R is a great place to watch the game, with TV views from a dining room booth. chi
PRO TIP: Take a few minutes to walk next door to the Central Kansas Free Fairgrounds to locate another Cowboy Boot Art installation. You can’t miss it.
The Big Spur stands 28 feet high and weighs one ton. Constructed in 2002 by Larry Houston, it’s certified by Guinness World Records as the largest.
PRO TIP: Each boot is located at a commercial building, so parking is usually not an issue. View the 
Across the street, a similarly designed blonde brick building once used as the Union Pacific Freight Station (110 N. Cedar St.). 
The taproom is owned and operated by some of the nicest Kansans. Patrons can expect a laid-back atmosphere, where locals are friendly and eager for conversation.
Plan your visit around one of their live music nights, when everyone in the county shows up to sip and listen.
The brewery has quickly expanded from one barrel to five since opening in 2022. Although they don’t offer traditional beer flights, I wanted to taste all five of their brews, ranging from an espresso stout to a golden ale.
They invite breweries that use their hops to join the tap wall. Patrons can choose from guest taps from makers like Fields and Ivy Brewery, Free State Brewing Company, and Kansas Territory Brewing Company.
I was impressed by the brewery’s ample space to unwind and craft beer. Locals grouped up at tables with a view of the game.
Beverages purchased at the brewery can be enjoyed in the downtown Common Consumption Area, so it’s common to see customers drinking beer and cocktails while walking along Main Street within marked areas.
Gentry’s Gold (5.7% ABV), an English pale ale, reminded me of a refreshing, game-day beer. Not sure what to order from the beer menu? Bartenders recommend a Regular Beer as a starter before moving on to more complex ones like a milkshake IPA.
I couldn’t decide which beer I wanted, so I created a flight of 3-oz pours. Cool Mom Pomegranate Saison was a winner. But if I’m honest, I enjoyed all of the beer in the flight. The brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks are available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.
A flight of small-pour beers gave me a chance to sample four beers from a menu consisting of pale ales, IPAs, a sour, a hard seltzer, and a porter. I thought they were all drinkable, but the Galaxy Frontier Pale Ale was by far my preferred beer for its hop flavor that wasn’t overly pronounced.
During my private tour, I learned that the owners always wanted to serve a variety of beers. Nearly a dozen taps line the wall behind the bar of flagship beers and collaborations with other breweries. I enjoyed a flight featuring five beers with varied flavors and ABVs. Top Traveler, a New Zealand IPA, was awarded the best beer in the line-up.
Individual tasters are $3, but a flight of tasters is the way to go. Most patrons seemed to agree, as nearly everyone at their table had a board and a flight card. A continuous rotation of beer keeps regulars coming back for more.
Their menu has always featured items made with fresh ingredients and flair. You won’t find standard pub grub at Free State. The menu options appeal to foodies who appreciate unique flavor combinations and the freshest ingredients.
I highly recommend stopping at Free State Brewing Co. for lunch or dinner during your visit to Lawrence. Although they are not hosting brewery tours, you can check their 
The food menu features an array of hearty options from burgers to soups and salads. Non-beer drinkers will appreciate the LBC Seasonal Cocktails menu, short wine list, and hard ciders.
Warbeard Irish Red remains one of their most requested flagship beers. I would also recommend the HighBeam IPA. Drinkers who prefer a lighter brew will appreciate the Falconer’s Wheat and Teter Rock Kölsch.
PRO TIP: Check the brewery’s Facebook page for event announcements, which often include comedy shows and live bands. Leashed pets are welcome in the tasting room.
PRO TIP: 
During our visit, we swapped stories and learned more about the great people who make McPherson what it is while sipping on a Vertigo IPA and their latest recipe, Summer Breeze Lime Gosé. Already a fan of one of their flagship beers, Wanderlust, a Scottish Red, I had always wanted to visit the taproom.
The brewery uses a large, on-site production facility. Three flagship pours are served on tap, and the remaining nine taps are reserved for rotators. The bartender told me the brewery’s gluten-free Wicked West Cider is popular with regulars.
The evening of my visit, an acoustic original songwriter sang while newcomers milled about chatting with friends. I appreciate the brewery’s wide selection of beer types, choosing the best-selling El Compadre, an adjunct lager, and maltier Irish ale, Clurichaun.
We sipped on Langdon’s Lager and the Belgian Wit during the lunch hour. With the kitchen in sight, it was time to order pizza. Our server told us that the most popular specialty pizza on the menu is the Drop The Piggy. The homemade crust and sauce were surprisingly good, reminiscent of the pies we dine on in New York. The large pizza was covered in Canadian bacon, pepperoni, Italian sausage, and traditional bacon. Loving every bite and not wanting to leave a morsel behind, we asked for a to-go box.
On warm-weather days, the brewery hosts outdoor events that spill over into Hyde Park across the street. Their anniversary block party in August features live music, food trucks, and games for the kids. I recommend their free jerk chicken and coconut rice during Raggae Sunday.
The best seat in the brewery is in leather chairs in a sunny spot, seated near houseplants and windows, perfect for people-watching. On a good-weather day, choose the rooftop lounge.
I prefer to start with a core beer, Ride The Lightning, an American Pilsner, followed by a smooth Luvbug Hefeweizen or a seasonal brew. Some of my go-to orders from the gastro-pub grub menu include the Bacon Crack, Cobb Salad, and Alabama BBQ Burger.
Opened in its original location in 2015, the cafe won Best Atmosphere for two years running by Restaurant Guru. You’ll love the casual, comfy ambiance of the café, which reminded me of The Perk in the TV show Friends. Trending music plays in the background as patrons sit at tables sipping coffee and bent over laptops. Paired-up friends chat about the day’s happenings.
It is nearly impossible to order at the register without spying on a delicious homemade pastry in the bakery case. The owner told me she had just pulled warm blueberry muffins from the oven so it was a no-brainer. It was the perfect pairing with my chai latté.
KC Wine Co. is not just a tasting room next to a vineyard. It’s a winery destination located on five acres with a multitude of things for visitors to enjoy.
Inside The Barrel Room, adults can savor tasting flights ranging from dry whites and reds to sweeter varieties. You’ll discover an expansive open-air building with outdoor seating and a scenic view of the vineyards just beyond its doors. An oversized KC Wine Co. lights up at night, providing a picture-worthy moment.
Plan your visit to the winery around one of their popular 
The red barn is also open to visitors. Walk inside to order a wine slushy, a pint of Free State Brewing Company craft beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Look for a seasonal display with a bench to take a photo with friends or family.
The food menu included a short list of flatbreads. When they told me that the brisket on the Meats Pizza was made by an American Royal award-winning barbecuer, 
My suite was a 456 sq. ft. living room separated from the bedroom by a privacy door. I appreciated its amenities, including free WiFi and a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator. Each room had a 42-inch HDTV, and the king-size bed was as comfy and plush.
The five-generations, family-owned vineyard and winery produce more than 20 wines, hard ciders, and wine slushies. During my taproom visit, I discussed the winery’s history with the owner while savoring the “Thankful for Wine” $10 flight (5, 2oz pours), a wide-ranging selection of dry to sweet wines.
Their best-selling wine, Hoftoberfest, tastes semi-sweet with pineapple notes that finish crisp. I prefer full-body, dry reds, so, I was a fan of Zin XXI, which had blackberry and plum notes.
Outside, wine enthusiasts can take advantage of patio seating and covered seating inside a second building also available for group parties. I recommend planning your visit around the sunset hour.
PRO TIP: The brewery is closed Mondays, so you’ll want to plan your visit when the brewery and the food truck are open. View the hours 
Ice cream, baked goods, and candy dominated the menu, and the place smelled like freshly made waffle cones. I opted for a double scoop of Rocky Road ice cream, but seriously, you can’t go wrong no matter your menu choice. I recommend taking a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.
Not in the mood for ice cream? Choose a hazelnut iced coffee, latte, or vanilla macchiato from the Espresso Bar menu.
A quick scan of the shelves and I noticed that they sell their bagged coffee beans, so I kept it simple and ordered a tall drip coffee. Irresistible pastries stared back at me from the glass case. A warm strawberry homemade Pop-Tart and a slice of quiche tasted delightful while I watched it rain outside from a window seat. Nearby, a cabinet with jewelry, branded merchandise, and retail candles sat on display.
The owner of Junque Drawer also owns Holiday House across the street (101 W. Cedar), which is one-stop shopping for all things festive. Thematic rooms are designed by style and color creating Christmas decor and ornaments. Wait until you see the bathroom shower filled with pillows!
PRO TIP: Start on the third floor and work your way down, ending the shopping experience at the register. If you’re searching for a specific gift item, ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction.
I recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was searching for lighter fare and chose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.
PRO TIP: Don’t be surprised if they say you can pay for your order after dining in. Bring cash, or you must spend $5 for a credit card purchase.
The menu includes drool-inducing sandwiches like The Z-Man Sandwich, made with slow-smoked beef brisket topped with provolone cheese and onion rings. People rave about it for a good reason. It’s filling, so consider ordering the regular sandwich instead of the jumbo portion.
The food Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is putting out is pure kitchen magic. Do you want to try a variety of smoked meats? Order a Combo Sandwich or a Two Meat Dinner. Save room for dessert – ask about the seasonal dessert while ordering your meal. 
PRO TIP: Walk across the parking lot and check out 
