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Essential Stops in Kansas City, Kansas

December 21, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

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

Kansas City, Kansas is a go-to destination for culturally diverse attractions, big-city shopping, and restaurants worthy of the all-star status. At the final stop on my Kansas I-70 road trip, I was eager to search out the top things to do in the city.

BREAKFAST

HANA’S DONUTS

Hana’s Donuts (2131 S. 34th St.) is tucked away in a neighborhood just waiting to be discovered by donut die-hards. Entering the parking lot, I saw one customer after another exit with boxes of goodies. The smell of donuts filled the air.

Inside, a family with several kids ordered a big box of donuts. Each child pointed at their choice. “I want the one with sprinkles!” the youngest boy exclaimed. Before their order was complete, the dad added “and a dozen of the cinnamon bites, please.”

The display case was filled with every kind of donut you could imagine. Apple fritters the size of your hand. Blueberry cake donuts. Cinnamon rolls. And classics like maple long johns and old fashion crullers.

The woman behind the counter the added two donuts to my to-go bag and thanked me for coming into the bakery for the first time. She (and the owner) had worked since 8pm the night before to prepare donuts. Wow!

When you visit Hana’s Donuts, order a dozen donuts and save 10%. Don’t leave without adding a few cinnamon bites to the bag for good measure. With only one table inside the bakery, customers often take their order to go. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, check the bakery’s hours before making a trip.

LODGING

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT KANSAS CITY AT THE LEGENDS

Located across the parking lot from some of the best shopping in the area, Residence Inn by Marriott Kansas City at The Legends (1843 Village West Pkwy) provides all of the comforts want from a hotel and more because it’s designed for the extended-stay traveler. They offer studio, one and two-bedroom suites.

My one-bedroom suite was bigger than some of my college apartments. The layout was incredible! Unlike typical hotel rooms, this one had a full kitchen with large appliances, a living room with a workstation, a separate bedroom with a full closet, and an oversized bathroom. After months on the road traveling to Kansas towns, I was happy to discover a hotel room that felt like home. The rest of the hotel’s amenities were equally as nice. Every morning, guests enjoy a full complimentary breakfast adjacent to the lobby. For those not staying for a morning meal, a self-serve coffee bar is available just beyond the spacious lobby.

Although the hotel had an indoor pool and fitness equipment on-site, I opted to get my exercise by walking directly across the street to The Legends Outlets for a little retail therapy. If you choose to stay at the hotel, I know you’ll find it impressive. To search for available rooms and rates, visit the website.

ATTRACTIONS

LEGENDS OUTLETS KANSAS CITY

Did you know that Legends Outlets Kansas City is one of the state’s top tourist attractions? People drive from miles around to shop brand-name stores for mega-deals in the area known as Village West. Adidas, Ann Taylor, Nike, and Under Armour are a small sampling of the store you can expect. With over 100 outlets, retail shops, and dining options, it’s no wonder the Legends Outlets is always buzzing with people.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor sculptures and public art displays at almost every turn. As you wind your way around the complex, you’ll notice that each one pays homage to legendary Kansans who made their mark in history. The courtyards and corridor showcase the stories of Amelia Earhart, Clyde Cessna, and Buster Keaton.

In fact, if you happen to have someone in your group that doesn’t prefer shopping, they can easily be entertained by walking the grounds and learning about the movers and shakers who made Kansas what it is today. A yellow brick road gives a nod to the Wizard of Oz while native grasses surround towering sculptures.

At Christmas time, the annual lighting of the holiday tree in the center of the courtyard brings hundreds to the area. Families can follow the event with a movie night at AMC Theatre Legends 14. The movie theatre includes 14 screens and one of them is four stories tall with a VIP balcony lounge. Later, the family can head to Santa’s Mail Station to drop the kids’ letters to the North Pole.

The 45-foot Christmas tree is synchronized to music. Covered in 2,000 ornaments and colorful lights, it’s the center showpiece during the holiday season.

CABELA’S

Shopping at Cabela’s (10300 Cabela Dr.) is an adventure for the entire family. Heck, even the family dog is welcomed in the store. Located a short driving distance from the outlet mall, Cabella’s carries gear, cookware, and clothing for those who like to spend time outdoors.

Aside from racks and shelves filled with the latest outdoor gear, the retail store is filled with taxidermy including the world’s largest collection of trophy mule deer.

Walking through the store is like going on a safari. Side rooms showcase towering elephants flanked by big cats and antelope. A pedestrian bridge in the store covers a pond of koi fish at the base of an indoor waterfall. Kids love identifying fish at the oversized aquarium. Couples stop to take selfies with statuesque animals.

The second floor of the retail store is where deal hounds need to shop. Clothing and shoes labeled with end-of-the-year deep discounts on outdoor equipment are found in the Blowout Sale Room. If you’re looking for a new coat, pair of boots, or flannel shirt that is slightly out of season, you’ll find it here.

As I was exiting the salesroom, I heard a familiar sound “Ho ho ho, big guy! Do you like candy canes?” It was Santa! He was greeting children waiting in line with their parents to have their photo taken with the jolly fellow. Cabela’s is known for hosting events like this one, so be sure to check their Facebook page for more information before planning your visit.

HOLLYWOOD CASINO AT KANSAS SPEEDWAY

The sound of the slot machines and the dealers calling cards entices visitors to try their luck at Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway (777 Hollywood Casino Blvd). Gamblers sit in front of 2,000 reel and video slot machines hoping for a jackpot.

I noticed dozens of table games including roulette and craps. Walking through the casino, it was easy to find a game to play. The 12-table Poker Room was bustling. Prefer video poker? Pull up a chair and inside your casino card to start a game.

With access to several bars and restaurants, casino players can satisfy their cravings for a delicious meal between gameplay. Final Cut Steakhouse’s menu offers fine dining selections and they promote meal deals during the holidays. What could be better than celebrating a jackpot with a steak dinner and a cocktail?

LUNCH

EL TORO LOCO MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

It was lunchtime and because I was hanging around The Legends Outlets area, I decided to give El Toro Loco (1706 Village Park West) a try. Specializing in street tacos, tamales, and other Mexican dishes, it’s a ideal choice for tourists who need a break from shopping.

A friendly bartender greeted me and served up a heaping bowl of chips with salsa and an ice-cold Corona. The menu has more entree choices on it than you can imagine, and by the looks of the plates in front of diners around the restaurant, the portions were going to be massive.

When I have a food craving, there isn’t any denying it. I created a combination meal consisting of a chile relleño and a taco with rice and refried beans. I’ve ordered chile relleños in many places and I know a good one when I taste it. The cheese was delicious and the battered and fried pepper was perfectly crisp.

The restaurant’s setting was colorful and vibrant from the plates to the decor on the walls. TVs surrounded the bar area allowing patrons to watch the game at any time. About eight varieties of tequila bottles lined the back of the bar. The bartender stayed busy filling the margarita machine with fresh-made mix (he makes about 20 gallons a day!).

If you’re planning a visit to the area, take a look at the restaurant’s Facebook page for advertised promotions on menu selections like Taco and Margarita Tuesday when hard shell tacos are 99 cents and jumbo margaritas are $4.99.

ATTRACTIONS

ROWE RIDGE VINEYARD & WINERY

As a Kansan, I’m still amazed that the state produces incredible wine considering the extreme weather we often experience in the Midwest. I was impressed with Rowe Ridge Vineyard & Winery (11255 Leavenworth Rd), a five-minute drive from my lunch stop. The tasting room offers vino enthusiasts a chance to sample flights of a large selection of wines (6 wines + logo glass $8).

Located on 10 acres, the tasting room is open Thursday-Sunday from 12pm-5pm or by appointment. Marc and Pame Rowe have operated the vineyard since 2005 and depend on volunteers to help them harvest grapes from over 3,000 vines. The first vineyard in Wyandotte County, they produce 9 varieties of hybrid and American native grapes.

My recommendation is to bring someone with you to the tasting room and each purchase a different flight so you can sample all of the wines. When in doubt, choose the dry to semi-sweet flight. Bottles range from $17-$18 and fruit wine bottles are $16. View the current list of wines available here.

DOWNTOWN AVENUE OF MURALS

The Kansas City metro area is known for its many murals. Each street art creation tells a story, and the ones I located downtown aka “Avenue of Murals” celebrate the history and culture unique to the area. Over 30 high school students were involved in the creation of some of them.

El Baile de la Vida (826 Minnesota Ave.) pictured below shows dancers in costumes representing 19 states. Look closely and you will recognize images of Mexican culture from Day of the Dead skeletons to La Virgen de Guadalupe.

Directly across the street, I spotted a gigantic mural depicting what appeared to be a laborer. Kansan Printer (901 N. 8th St.) is a mural highlighting a printer at a hand press to honor the workers of the Kansas City Kansan newspaper. The building it is painted on housed the newspaper plant for 80 years.

Before leaving the downtown area, I spied another beautiful mural worthy of a photo, Facing the Past, Looking Into the Future (751 Minnesota Ave.). It showcases the story of the modern and traditional Hmong culture by highlighting work, play, and celebration. The vibrant colors can’t be missed as you drive down Minnesota Avenue.

To view an online map of the Avenue of Murals Project and other street art finds including sculptures in the area, click this link. While you’re in the downtown area, consider dining along the city’s famous Taco Trail. There are 28 restaurants alone in the downtown corridor. Locals highly recommend Bonito Michoacan (1150 Minnesota Ave).

DINNER

My day of exploring Kansas City was coming to an end, but not before I made the drive to a restaurant locals consider one of the best in the city, Slap’s BBQ (533 Central Ave.). It seemed like everyone I knew had eaten there but me, so my visit was overdue.

The bbq joint is known for its ribs, serving perfectly charred but moist burnt ends, and a host of mouthwatering side dishes. They’ve been in the biz since the Pearce brothers began touring the barbecue competition circuit. The restaurant serves healthy portions of smoked meat to diners looking for authentic Kansas City bbq.

I took my place in line and waited about 20 minutes until it was my turn to order dinner. The outdoor seating area was filled with families, so I ordered a meat combo plate to go.

When I told the employee it was my first time at Slap’s BBQ, they added a pork rib to my dinner. “It’s one of our best meats, and you need to try it,” he said. Along with my burnt ends, I took his advice and ordered side dish helpings of baked potato casserole and bacon mac-n-cheese.

When in Kansas City, you simply must eat at Slap’s BBQ. Their award-winning barbecue continues to earn top honors at competitions. If that isn’t convincing enough then, the line winding out the door made up of out-of-towners and locals is proof enough. My meal was beyond delicious and I’ll most definitely be back to the Strawberry Hill neighborhood the next chance I get.

Kansas City, Kansas is where you go when you want to eat like the locals. It’s also a mecca for destination shopping, mural hunting, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Rich with history dating back to when Lewis & Clark arrived at Kaw Point in 1804 to today’s vibrant community, Kansas City is an urban area that quickly wins you over.

The next time I’m in the area, I plan to check out the historic farmstead Grinter Place, Cedar Hill Family Orchard, and if I get over my free of heights, Zip KC. Anyone want to join me?

Ambassador Hotel Wichita: A Luxury Hotel Experience Near Fabulous Downtown Attractions

July 27, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Ambassador Hotel Wichita sponsored this post, however, all opinions are my own. All of the photos were taken by me.

Not all hotel experiences are memorable, then again, not all hotels are the Ambassador Hotel Wichita (104 S. Broadway).

A stunning boutique hotel in downtown Wichita, it caters to travelers looking for a sophisticated experience surrounded by luxury. The award-winning hotel touts a long list of amenities making it a sought-after choice for overnight accommodations in the city.

Located in the heart of downtown near entertainment venues, it is within walking distance of historic neighborhoods Old Town and the Delano District. The building also has a rich legacy of its own.

HISTORY

Once home to the Union National Bank and Dockum Drug Store in 1926, it opened as Ambassador Hotel Wichita eight decades later. Fourteen stories tall, it was considered the tallest building in Kansas when it was completed. In addition to its architectural significance, the building also has historical value. It was the site of a student-led sit-in in 1958 at the Dockum Drug Store led by African Americans in an effort to end segregation. Not long after the students were finally served at the store’s soda fountain, Rexall stores across the nation followed suit, desegrated, and changed their policies in stores throughout Kansas.

LOCATION

They say location is everything. The Ambassador’s proximity to some of Wichita’s best attractions is part of what makes it a desirable choice for an overnight or weekend stay. If you’re someone who loves to explore downtown areas by foot or by free trolley, I recommend booking a hotel room. As soon as you step outside the lobby doors, the sounds of downtown Wichita invite you to experience the fun.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Finding a parking space and checking into the hotel is easy. I drove into a nearby parking garage and traded my paper ticket for a hotel-issued parking card at check-in. After checking into my room, I toured the hotel. It’s something I like to do to get a lay of the land. I discovered an elaborately decorated lobby ornamented with oversized chandeliers and modern furniture.

Are you someone who seeks out a hotel with a fitness center? I’m more of a yoga kinda gal, but I appreciated that the hotel’s gym was filled with a variety of machines and racks of free weights. For hotel guests who need to work while they’re traveling, the lobby has a sundrenched workspace with all the necessities of an office.

ROOM AMENITIES

I can’t say enough about the level of luxury at the hotel. My experience was delightful, and I especially appreciated the Premium Corner King room. It was incredibly spacious as compared to other downtown hotels I’ve stayed in. Sunlight flooded the room thanks to oversized windows on nearly every wall. Elegant furniture and decorative finishes created an inviting space. The deluxe room would be an ideal choice for a couple or business traveler wanting comfort matched by luxury.

The room’s amenities include a flatscreen TV, liquor pantry, coffee cart with snacks, and an Alexa personal assistant. For those who need to get work down during their stay, the in-room desk is large enough for a laptop and then some.

Traveling for pleasure? The hotel offers various room service packages, which can include a bottle of wine or champagne with an upgrade. Just imagine yourself relaxing in a plush king-sized bed wearing a soft robe while enjoying a meal from bed. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?

For me, it was the details of a hotel experience that make it worthwhile. From oversized bath towels and feather pillows to high-speed WiFi and a comfy couch, the Premium Corner King room provided everything I wanted and more. After exploring downtown Wichita, it was just the kind of room I wanted to return to at the end of the day.

DINING + DRINKS

Thankfully, I didn’t have to travel far for an incredible meal. Siena Tuscan Steakhouse, located on the hotel’s first floor, is a fine dining restaurant that serves locally inspired cuisine.

The impeccable menu changes seasonally. My server told me that a considerable amount of attention is given to the quality of the food they serve from sourcing the ingredients to crafting the recipes – even the mushrooms are farmed daily. My meal was exceptional.

Italian music played as I dined on an appetizer board of chef-selected meats and cheeses. I particularly loved the Italian herb cheese and the fresh made-in-house peach jam. The board was large enough for two to three people to enjoy before ordering dinner with a bottle of wine.

Just around the corner from the restaurant’s dining room, I heard people chatting and glasses clanking. Siena’s bar area was full of hotel guests, mostly business travelers, sipping on wine and cocktails. If I were traveling for work or simply needed a place to meet a colleague for a drink, the lounge area would be my go-to spot.

After devouring my delicious meal, I followed the signs leading to the bottom level of the hotel. I was led into a candlelit foray with a mysterious wooden door. I had arrived at Dockum, a speakeasy known for serving exquisite hand-crafted cocktails.

The moment I entered the dimly lit space I was greeted by the sound of jazz music and a visually stunning room. Pendant lights with old-fashioned mercury bulbs and a large collection of candles illuminated the space. I nestled into my table. It was as if I had been transported to the Prohibition era when gangsters used secret taverns to sell illegal alcohol.

The speakeasy pays homage to the building’s history while providing guests ambiance they won’t find anywhere else in the city. According to Dockum, the rules for enjoying the bar are simple, “Be good to us and we’ll spoil you.” It was definitely my kind of tavern.

I ordered Dockum’s Smoking Gun, a signature cocktail made with Tin Cup Whiskey, brown sugar simple syrup, blackberry shrub, and whiskey barrel-aged bitters. I highly recommend this cocktail not only for its taste but also so you can watch it being made. The bartender aka “pharmacist” crafts it by flaming the shrub’s smoke directly into a small bottle filled with spirits. The magic continues tableside as the server pours the smoky concoction into a glass of ice and lights an orange peel to finish it.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

When you stay downtown at the hotel, you are within a short distance of one-of-kind attractions from public art to event venues. As soon exit the lobby’s doors, you’re only steps from a Wichita transit trolley or electric bus stop that can take you to them. It’s also an easy walk for hotel guests who would rather stroll the city’s urban core.

Art Lovers

Douglas Avenue is the home to beautiful works of art. The city commissioned 31 life-size bronze sculptures by Washington artist, Georgia Gerber, which appear on four blocks of downtown sidewalks. They sit right alongside oversized planters overflowing with colorful botanicals making the self-guided tour a delightful one. Which bronze sculpture will be your favorite? It’s hard to pick just one. I encourage you to seek out Dockum Lunch Counter Sit-In, which is representative of the historical moments that took place where the Ambassador is located today.

Street art is a bonus surprise for visitors to Wichita. Douglas Avenue Art Days is a collection of murals that make vibrant backdrops for selfies. How many will you discover? To view them all, download the app for access to a map and plot your course.

One of my favorite places to view artwork in the city is the Wichita Art Museum. It sits in the Museums on the River district near Riverside Park. The museum houses award-winning paintings, sculptures, and they always have rotating exhibitions featuring the work of well-renowned artists. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden featuring one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art, “Dreamers Awake” by Tom Otterness. Another indoor space to view art, much of which is usually the work of talented regional artists, is CityArts. After viewing its gallery, I suggest renting a scooter or bike from a nearby station to tour the sculptures on display in Old Town between Douglas and Second streets.

On your way back to the hotel, make a stop at our city’s iconic steel sculpture, the Keeper of the Plains. If you visit it at night, you can see it illuminated from the light of fiery cauldrons that burn every 15 minutes starting at 9 pm in the spring and summer and 7 pm in the fall and winter.

Adventure Seekers

If you haven’t experienced the newly constructed Riverfront Stadium, it’s time. The ballpark is home to the minor league Double-A affiliate team, Wichita Wind Surge. Baseball fans pack the stands to listen to the crack of the bats and the roar of the crowd.

Hockey fans visiting the area must experience an action-packed Wichita Thunder hockey game at Intrust Bank Arena. The venue is only two blocks from the Ambassador. The energy of the arena comes alive as our team battles on the ice against visiting opponents. Don’t be surprised if you see Wichitans passionately beating on the ice rink’s glass in support of their favorite team.

Blade and Timber, located in the historic Delano District, is a great place to test one’s axe-throwing skills and “unleash your inner lumberjack.” Why not make it a competition amongst friends and see who’s axe lands closest to the bullseye?

Are you thinking of traveling with family to downtown Wichita? Lace-up your skates at the Wichita Ice Center across the street from Riverfront Stadium. It’s an ideal place to cool off indoors on a hot summer day and practicing pirouettes.

Music Lovers

When not hosting the city’s hockey team, Intrust Bank Arena showcases live music from big-name artists from the likes of George Strait, Foo Fighters, and Pink. I can’t think of a better hotel to stay at downtown if you’re planning to attend a concert than the Ambassador. You can walk to the venue in five minutes and get there just in time for the show to start.

If you’re interested in catching a local band at a smaller venue, consider walking to Wave, Barleycorn’s, Mort’s Martini & Cigar Bar, or Vorshay’s Cocktail Lounge – three of the venues are located in historic downtown Wichita buildings.

Shopping Seekers

You don’t have to go far from the hotel to spot boutique shops and remarkable retail stores. One of the best places that I like to direct out-of-towners is Hatman Jack’s in the Delano District where shoppers have enjoyed custom hat fittings for the last four decades. Other fantastic finds in the historic district include All Things BBQ, Zeep Bath, Sweet N’ Saucy, and Bungalow 26.

Family-Friendly

Staying at the hotel with kids? The city’s center is home to several family-friend places to explore and have fun. Take my advice and take the family to Exploration Place. The science center gives museum-goers of all ages hands-on experience interacting with exhibits such as Design Build Fly and Where Kids Rule. Feel like getting some fresh air and enjoying a wide-open space? Naftzger Park is a scenic space/entertainment venue in downtown Wichita. If you’re lucky, you might catch a movie in the park while you’re there during the summer. Nearby, I recommend stopping into Peace, Love, & Pie where they take homemade pie-making to another dimension. Grab a slice to go and enjoy it from the astroturf lawn at the park.

Nature Explorers

Another attraction that is considered a “happy place” for visitors is Botanica. Not your average city garden, it is an oasis in the middle of downtown Wichita. I love walking amongst their manicured landscapes to view an extensive variety of plants and flowers. The roses in the Shakespeare Garden will take your breath away. Kids and adults alike enjoy the whimsical discoveries found in the Downing Children’s Garden. Don’t miss a trip through the Butterfly House.

History Hunters

It wouldn’t be a complete tour of downtown’s finest attractions without a mention of Old Cowtown Museum. Locals and visitors alike have been going there for years to see what it must have been like on the frontier in the late 1860s and 1870s. I know you’ll appreciate touring over 50 authentic and recreated buildings that make up Cowtown. It’s an immersive experience you won’t find anywhere else. Be sure to step inside the saloon for a cold root beer or saunter over to the print shop to watch a letterpress at work.

There is no shortage of attractions beyond the doors of the Ambassador. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or a returning guest, the downtown area is the best place to experience what makes Wichita wonderful. Perhaps I’m a little biased since I’m a Wichitan, but I promise you’ll love your experience staying at Ambassador Hotel Wichita as well as the time spent in the downtown area.

Do you have questions about exploring Wichita’s downtown district? Want to learn more about the hotel? Drop a comment below. I’m always happy to give travel advice.

5 Ideas for Exploring Wichita While Staying Active

June 23, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! If you live in the Wichita area and would appreciate new ideas for exploring the city while staying active, I have a treat for you. My good friend, Jennifer Strong McConachie, and I decided to collaborate on a blog post that outlines a summer itinerary that gets you up and moving.

Jennifer is a native Wichitan who has recently authored, “Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win At Life,” a book that provides an inspiring look at endurance sports and how they make us better, more successful people. Having grown up in the Riverside neighborhood, staying active on the Arkansas River was just one aspect of her lifestyle. Today, she is a working mom who gets her workout in almost daily by biking, rollerskiing, swimming, packrafting, or kayaking. You name the sport, Jennifer is ready to try it.

Despite the fact that I don’t exercise much (she inspires me to get moving!), Jennifer and I have quite a bit in common. We’re native Wichitans and our pride for the city runs deep. We both appreciate making the most of each day and to seek out adventure in everyday life. It’s that inner spirit that drives us to make life more delightful.

We hope that our ideas for adventure are ones that you can’t wait to seek out when exploring the city. For each excursion, we’ll identify how you can get in a workout while exploring a destination.

BIKE RIDE ALONG THE ARKANSAS RIVER

Jennifer:

Riding along the Arkansas River is one of my favorite places to get in an outdoor workout. The best thing is that you stay out of traffic! This makes the paved trails a great place to bring kids along for a ride in your bike chariot as well.

Vanessa:

The 10-mile peaceful and scenic path runs along the bank of the Arkansas River giving cyclists a view of the city’s downtown skyline along the way. Cyclists have access to parks and attractions along the route including the Museums on the River and the Keeper of the Plains iconic statue. I suggest planning your route so it ends at Milkfloat (535 W. Douglas) the historic Delano District west of the river. The cafe is known for its long list of specialty coffees and drinks. After a long bike ride, why not try a Blueberry Lemonade Milkshake or iced coffee? Better yet, sit down and enjoy your beverage along with one of their delectable baked goods. I recommend the classic chocolate brownie or homemade strawberry Pop-Tart. Plan your visit by viewing the cafe hours here.

RUN WITH AN EXPANSIVE VIEW

Jennifer:

Running to Elderslie Farm on an early summer morning for a treat gets you out of the city and gives you a way to celebrate after sweating bramble-side.

Vanessa:

Locals appreciate Elderslie Farm’s Bramble Cafe (3501 E. 101st St. North, Kechi) for its beautiful surroundings and hard to resist menu of breakfast items and flavorful drinks. Feeling parched after a run? Consider ordering a refreshingly tart blackberry lemonade with a scone. If you have extra time before setting out for a return run home, don’t miss interacting with the goats that roam the grounds.

Prepare for your adventure before setting out on your run, view the cafe’s hours, and pack a cold pack in your bag so you can bring home fresh cheese from the creamery located near the cafe.

SET OUT ON A SCOOTER

Jennifer:

Channel your inner kid and scooter (not the electric kind, but the good old fashion kick scooter kind!) around downtown Wichita. Don’t have a scooter? Try rollerblades, skates, or any other form of wheeled fun. Stop in Cocoa Dolce for an iced drink and sweet treat.

Vanessa:

You can always find something delightful on Cocoa Dolce’s (235 St. Francis) menu. The downtown location is the perfect pitstop to relax and enjoy a flavored ice tea, artisan chocolates, or made from scratch cookie. The friendly staff is willing to suggest menu favorites or tell you about their latest specialty drink offerings. If you have a few extra minutes, step over to the glass wall to view employees making chocolate in the nearby factory. Plan your visit by viewing their hours here.

CYCLING AND SANDWICHES

Jennifer:

Why not bike or run to the Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine? You could pack a tasty sandwich from Tanya’s Soup Kitchen to take with you and enjoy a picnic under the trees. Go for live music, a program, or stroll the gardens. One of my favorite events is their annual croquet soiree.

Vanessa:

Tayna’s Soup Kitchen serves menu items made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients made from scratch daily. I love to order the City Chicken sandwich made with sliced chicken, bacon, provolone, romaine, caesar dressing on an onion kaiser. Jennifer’s favorite sandwich is pictured below, Delilah’s Light Lunch made from sliced chicken breast, apricot relish, sharp cheddar, and romaine on an onion kaiser roll. Ask about their seasonal soups. View their lunch hours here.

WATCH THE SUNSET FROM A KAYAK

Jennifer:

Another great idea is to take a kayak out to watch the sunset with cookies snacks from J’Rae’s to nibble on while you’re on the water. Their frosted sugar cookies come in all kinds of festive shapes for any occasion.

Vanessa:

Always a supporter of dining local, I recommend stopping for a sweet treat at J Rae‘s (2357 N. Maize Rd.). They make baked goodies ranging from cheesecakes and cupcakes to cookies and chocolate truffles. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply rewarding yourself for a high-intensity workout, it’s a win-win! Don’t forget to pack chilled sparkling water to drink for your dessert session on the river! View the bakery’s hours here.

Did we inspire you to explore the city? You must be hungry by now! Wichita is nestled in between two rivers and linked by several bike trails. It’s easy and fun to build your own adventure and find your favorite fuel around town. Enjoy the outdoors this summer and don’t forget to order your copy of “Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win At Life” for more ideas, global travel inspiration, and tools for living adventurously.