Disclosure: Wichita Festivals, Inc., sponsored this blog and provided courtesy photos for it. All opinions are mine.
Every fall, I clear my calendar the second weekend of September to attend Autumn & Art at Bradley Fair Parkway in Wichita, a free community event hosting more than 100 artists from across the United States.
Autumn & Art is more than an artists’ exhibition. It’s a welcoming setting where enthusiasts can mingle with artists, hang out with friends and family amongst live entertainment and food trucks.
5 Reasons I Attend Wichita’s Autumn & Art Every Year
Meeting the Artists and Admiring One-of-a-Kind Creations
Autumn & Art offers attendees the opportunity to meet the artists and learn what inspires them. Unlike an art gallery, Autumn & Art provides access to the artists who enthusiastically greet visitors and are eager to make conversation.
I’ve met remarkable photographers, painters, jewelry makers, and ceramicists by introducing myself to them while admiring their work. Sometimes, you can catch a moment with an artist while they work on a new piece.
Wichitans will tell you the city is large, but it feels like a small town. After a brief conversation with photographer Mickey Shannon, we learned that we are Wichita natives who share a love of Colorado.
Drawn to his vibrant photograph of the Flint Hills at springtime, I found myself purchasing Shannon’s coffee-table book “Kansas is Beautiful.”
You can find artwork for sale at every price point. Kids Artists’ Booths give the youngest enthusiasts the opportunity to purchase art for $5.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss the annual Featured Artist set up in the middle of the Parkway.
Local Food and Drinks Make It More Than an Art Show
A bonus to attending the fine arts show is pausing between shopping to grab a bite to eat and a beverage.
The Friday night Patron Party, a ticketed event, kicks off the weekend and is a must-attend event. I’ve sampled cuisine from some of Bradley Fair’s premier restaurants under the shaded canopy of trees.
It’s an excuse to mingle with friends with a handcrafted cocktail between bites of local fare. You can count on a lively atmosphere with live music, and organizers always gift guests a swag bag at the end of the night.
Food trucks are always on site from Friday through Sunday for the general public to enjoy.
PRO TIP: Attendees can purchase Patron Party tickets in advance or pay for them at the party’s entrance tent.
Live Entertainment Creates a Vibrant Fall Festival Atmosphere
It’s not uncommon to discover live entertainment along the Bradley Fair Parkway throughout the weekend, so I recommend bringing a lawn chair to enjoy performances by dancers and musicians at the Main Stage.
Additionally, the Autumn & Art mascot greets families and is available for group photos. The mascot is featured in the annual coloring book available for children.
Shopping for a Gift For Myself or Someone
For me, discovering artwork I love is easy. Deciding which piece to purchase is difficult.
One year, I adored a photograph of a falcon in flight so much that I purchased the framed print. I simply had to gift it to my boyfriend, a pilot, who is fascinated with falcons.
As the photographer gently packaged the framed print for me, he told me the story of how he captured the moment on film.
I think about it every time I admire the image in our home.
The Artwork Inspires Me To Create
As a travel content creator, my career is focused on writing and photographing destinations to motivate readers to experience leisure travel. Since attending Autumn & Art, I’ve tried a new medium.
I’ve allowed myself the creative freedom to paint.
My newfound hobby grounds me and allows me to express myself in a delightful way.
You’ll be glad you experienced Autumn & Art, whether you stroll Bradley Fair Park for an hour, stay for the day, or make a weekend of the alfresco art show.
I hope to see you there.
WHERE TO PARK: Autumn & Art attendees can park anywhere within Bradley Fair and make the short walk to the Parkway.
WHAT TO BRING: Tote a lawn chair so you can kick back and relax while watching performers at the Main Stage.
The county seat of Sumner County, Wellington, is an agriculture/railroad town of about 8,000 residents. The town was established in 1871. At a stop along the Chisholm Trail, cattlemen drove herds through town.
Railroads made it a bustling town in 1879, and you still hear the occasional train horn blow. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad passes through town, and the Union Pacific Railroad’s main lines run north-south. Another industry, aircraft parts manufacturing, also helped the town’s economy.
Fast forward to today, Wellington draws people to town for its walkable downtown district, outdoor recreation, and community events.
Brick, limestone, and artistic wood details make the historic buildings ‘ details awe-inspiring. A drive along Washington Avenue reveals a glimpse into the past.
Another can’t-miss architectural wonder,
Completed a few years later, Memorial Hall became an attractive downtown building, featuring stained-glass windows and wrought-iron staircase railings.
Outside, the historical tour continues with the Bronze Field Guns exhibit. The cannons were delivered upon the request of the Grand Army of the Republic James Post of Wellington in 1909. Delivered in 1915, they serve as a memorial.
The sound of falling water caught my attention. After walking to a concrete overlook, I spotted water dropping about 20 feet at the Slate Creek Dam Falls.
The park also features picnic and fishing areas, plus playground equipment for families to utilize.
Wellington Lake, consisting of 674 acres of water and 10 miles of shoreline, is the ideal place to destress and unwind..
Feel free to bring your dog if you walk them on a leash. Doggy bag stations are positioned around the park.
I discovered bakery trays of scones, brownies, and cinnamon rolls heaped with vanilla icing inside the glass case. I couldn’t resist ordering a scone with an iced latte from the Summer Drinks menu.
Muffin Top Bakery also serves lunch menu selections featuring salads, quiche, and sandwiches. If you’re visiting the bakery with kids, inquire about the Wild Sodas beverage menu.
Wood-paneled walls with framed photography of local happenings adorn the space. The smell of fresh-baked glazed donuts, bear claws, and long johns filled the air of the family-owned shop.
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.
The brewer/owner stayed busy behind the counter pressing hamburgers on the grill and preparing my Italian-inspired sandwich served with my choice of chips.
Regular customers watched horse racing and golf on TV while families tended to younger patrons and dined on sandwiches. If you go, Lauren and Amber will take good care of you.
Some of my happiest childhood memories after our softball team won a game were eating at Big Cheese Pizza, so I was eager to revisit the Wellington location.
The restaurant is a community favorite, often hosting groups in its party room. Vinyl banners of school teams honoring Lady Crusader Tennis and 4A State Girls Wrestling cover the walls. Kids love the toy crane machine.
At the concessions counter, a lava lamp sat upon a display housing autographed memorabilia from some of the best bowlers in the nation.
I tried something out of my comfort zone and sampled the highly recommended fresh pork rinds with pepper jack cheese and spinach queso, which I devoured. The rinds arrived at the table, crackling fresh from the fryer.
My server recommended saving room for dessert, and even though I was full, I couldn’t pass up caramel churros with vanilla ice cream, drizzled with honey and chocolate. 100% delicious.
PRO TIP: Visit on Thirsty Thursday for a 1/2-price margarita.
After the sun goes down, the music volume goes up, and it becomes a hangout for locals who want to play billiards while listening to a local DJ play current music.
I stopped in for a beer after already having eaten dinner elsewhere. The two-room, small bar was quickly filling up with locals on a Saturday evening.
Goff wants the mural’s vibrant colors to attract viewers who use it as an interactive backdrop to take selfies. The artist said she may not sign the mural because “it belongs to the town.”
Artist Majorie Hall Bicker painted a scene depicting moments in Wellington’s history around the corner from BeeHive Quilt Shop on 7th Street. Dedicated to the city in 2000, visiting the mural should be part of everyone’s visit to town.
Keep an eye out for ghost signs that appear on downtown buildings. The Jacob Engle Dry Goods sign at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Street was recently restored for Wellington’s 150th anniversary.
Edgar Oil Company, a local independent operator based in Wellington, is depicted in a mural on Broadway Avenue.
Another ghost sign peeking out above a downtown roofline is the old Harry’s Cafe mural. The restaurant was founded by Harry Clements and operated from the 1920s to the 1960s.
Murals are impressive in size, but it’s the tucked-away sculptures like the whimsical frog and a child reading a book that catch my attention at the Wellington Public Library.
Wellington’s newest art installation, co-created by Ursula Goff and Greg Flickinger, is located at Heritage Plaza on the former Antler’s Hotel Lot.
Follow the theatre’s 
I chatted with the co-owners who clearly share a passion for the sport and providing delicious meals and beverages for visiting bowlers.
Check the lanes’ seasonal hours and current specials, regularly posted on the 
One of 63 Carnegie libraries in Kansas, the Neo-Classical building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors without a library card can take advantage of available resources: exhibits, events, and workshops. I sat down and helped complete a puzzle.
Not all Carnegie libraries still serve as such, so a visit to the 
As a one-time competitive golfer, I appreciated the course’s well-maintained fairways and greens, which appeared in solid condition despite the summer heat.
Each tee box includes four options, including competitive tee markers. As a player’s course, you can expect to spend about four hours completing a round.
You don’t have to pay to use the Splash Pad accessible by the Candy Cane City playground nearby.
The extinct Ice Age elephant skull was found by Tim Kelly in 1992, and records show that the county’s first farmers found similar bones dating back to the 1870s.
The only museum in the nation that accepts all American glass companies, each case is organized by pattern. During my guided tour, we wandered from case to case, admiring the handiwork of glassblowers and creators.
I was mesmerized by the designs, especially with the glow-in-the-dark collection. Brightly colored bowls, muted colored vases, translucent plates, glass utensils – the list goes on.
The building itself is a historic treasure. Formerly known as Hatcher Hospital, the facility was operated by Dr. A. R. Hatcher and his staff, who treated patients using state-of-the-art equipment in pristine condition. The building was gifted to the Chisholm Trail Museum in 1965.
I was fascinated by the room designed to resemble a vintage soda fountain, complete with a vinyl booth, ice cream dishes, and the Let’s Sell Ice Cream book once used at the Chief Drug Soda Fountain until 1986.
You’re bound to stumble upon a curated item that speaks to you at the museum. Locals will appreciate the high school artifacts.
PRO TIP: If you’re interested in touring with a group or outside business hours, contact the museum directly or complete a 
At age 85, Perry enthusiastically leads guided tours of the museum, pointing out items he curated or was gifted, such as the two-sided depot bench and original Santa Fe merchandise featuring the company mascot, Chico.
It’s possible that Perry’s love for the railroad will rub off on you. Not only did I learn about railroad employees’ work, but I also had a better appreciation for the industry that helped develop so many Kansas towns, including Wellington.
PRO TIP: Take a photo with the 1903 AT&SF steam locomotive on display across the lawn from the museum at Sellers Park.
Having visited several quilt shops across Kansas, I was impressed by the staff’s knowledge of on-trend designs and how to teach others the techniques for every kind of quilt.
The staff is excellent at finding a toy or game that matches a child’s skill level and interests. If you’re seeking Lego® build kits or puzzles, Bee Creative Toys’ inventory has you covered.
PRO TIP: Follow the store on 
Whether you’re interested in a custom-made ring or shopping for a bracelet, ring, or necklace from designers like ASHI® or Ostbye®, you’ll find what you’re seeking at the downtown fine jewelry store.
From small collections to individual pieces, glassware of every hue and shape rests amongst antique clocks, lamps, and candle holders with fancy patterns.
Interestingly, I discovered a second room stocked with jeans, shirts, and hats leftover from the now-closed Frazer’s Menswear. Inventory includes trusted brands like Levis®, Wrangler®, and Pendleton®.
PRO TIP: View the store’s 
The two-story shop carries a variety of gently used items, ranging from antique home accents to books. The store is divided by vendor spaces, so it’s not uncommon to also find handcrafted jewelry for sale next to retro drinkware.
The employees behind the counter sat quietly while shoppers like me perused the displays.
Although there is less inventory upstairs, it’s worth checking out.
A local resident told me they carried jarred, gourmet food, and although they didn’t have Kansas-produced honey, I did find jarred pickles, relish, dip mixes, and old-fashioned soda pop sold by the bottle.
The center aisle displays are home to gift-worthy items like 500-count puzzles, kids’ toys, and packaged candy.
Friendly employees inquired if I needed any assistance, proving that the local lumber shop is more than just a place to buy home-building supplies.
Dropping my bags at the door, I toured the second-story apartment, discovering an open-kitchen concept, a one-bedroom space with a king-size bed, and a spacious bathroom with a rain shower and a soaking tub.
The kitchen and bathroom’s skylights flooded the space with diffused sunlight.
After a day of exploring Wellington on a hot summer day, I just happened to run into the owners in the courtyard, where we chatted about the town and why they love it.
In the morning, I sat at the kitchen’s island sipping freshly brewed coffee between bites of homemade quiche and scones prepared by the owners’ daughter. To say that I felt pampered is an understatement.
Plan to stay awhile? Campers have access to laundry facilities and you can purchase firewood and propane on site. Review the 
The festival was on my bucket list for years. Finally, I was able to attend and it lived up to the hype.
People placed lawn chairs along the parade route to eat food truck burgers awaiting the biplane flyover. An evening of live music concluded full days of activities, ranging from sidewalk chalk contests for the kids to the Antique Rod & Custom Car Show.
In fact, there are so many action-packed activities taking place each festival day, it’s best to carry the official schedule of events with you.
In true Kansas fashion, vendors taught festival attendees about agricultural practices like threshing wheat and milking cows, giving the festival a state fair quality.
Wellington is a wonderful place to explore top attractions in south-central Kansas. A 36-minute drive from Wichita, it’s the ideal day trip or overnight stay when combined with a full itinerary, including a community event.
If you love a road trip within driving distance of Wichita, I encourage you to check out 
The city is the ideal blend of urban attractions, a thriving art scene, and outdoor recreation. You can wake up at a luxury hotel, take a guided historic tour, and sip award-winning 
Use this comprehensive guide to plan your Winston-Salem getaway, a memorable vacation spent amongst locals who exude “twice as nice” Southern hospitality. Although the metro area is home to about 550,000 residents, it feels like a smaller town with big city amenities.
The interior’s metal finishes and Art Deco styling meld seamlessly with a color palette of dark hues with pops of vibrant color. Rentable bikes, an ornamental sailboat on display in the lobby, and nautical oars on the walls embrace a lifestyle of active exploration.
After dropping our luggage in our guest room, we lingered over craft cocktails and an exquisitely prepared dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, 
We appreciated how quiet and secluded our room felt despite the hotel’s full capacity. Our leisurely mornings began with complimentary coffee from soft duvet-covered bedding, before embarking on a full day of activities.
Our weekend getaway at the hotel felt like a continuous date night, with complimentary Happy Hour drinks and game-on competition in the 
For us, Kimpton Cardinal was the ultimate luxury hotel experience and the each employee we met went above and beyond to make sure we experience da comfortable, memorable stay.
BONUS: Kimpton Cardinal welcomes 
The restaurant is known for its Huevos Rancheros and Hot Honey Chicken, but we leaned into our cravings for the Eggs Benedict served with Virginia Ham and sweet tater tots, which impressed.
The service was prompt and friendly, and the value for the quality of the meals won us over. Seeking an early-morning meal with a boozy coffee or mimosa? 
We beat the morning rush, ordering two biscuit sandwiches: a Bluebird and a Hangover Helper, each served with brined and fried chicken. Every savory bite left us craving more.
And the coffee? It was downright perfect. But if you crave a boozy beverage, the bar is poised to prepare an Irish Coffee or Espresso Martini to your liking.
You’ll feel like a kid again, selecting your cake doughnut flavor and icing. No doubt, my warm chocolate doughnut (ready within minutes of my order!) was divine, but the savory scone was scrumptious.
When you arrive, ask to see the seasonal drink menu, or trust that any coffee or tea will satisfy.
You can order doughnuts individually, by half, or by a full dozen.
You can expect to find French-inspired pastries available to select from well after the morning hours. Ask about their breads and baguette sandwiches.
I sipped a Red Oak Bavarian Amber Lager from a can in between bites of a toasted reuben sandwich and potato salad. The patio was filled with senior adults chatting about their day as a musician set up his gear.
Our table ordered the Spicy Crawfish Eggrolls, which arrived freshly rolled, hot, and crispy. Although I didn’t taste a seafood flavor, I enjoyed them for the crunchy exterior and shredded vegetables inside. The Pimento Cheese served with flatbread and pepper jelly was a table favorite.
I can attest that the kitchen knows how to prepare an excellent sandwich. The Fried Green Tomato BLT, stacked and slathered with pimento cheese spread, arrived with my choice of side dish, roasted Brussel sprouts.
Most locals recommended Mozelle’s to us and suggested ordering the restaurant’s famous Tomato Pie. The kitchen sources as many of its ingredients as possible from local farms, brewers, wineries, and creameries.
We ordered the Southern Spring Rolls served with sesame ginger dipping sauce as a pre-lunch appetizer, which I was delightfully surprised to see on the menu.
The Seafood Cream Pesto Pasta lunch special was a hearty portion with small chunks of salmon and scallops, both equally delectable.
We ordered the escargot as a prelude to a smoked pork chop with grits and braised beef short rib served in a red wine sauce. To say the least, the well-plated meal was one of the best-tasting we’ve had during all our travels.
I couldn’t resist ordering the Trinity Tray, a sampling of queso, guac, and salsa with chips for a shareable appetizer over conversation.
PRO TIP: Follow the restaurant’s 
We sat at the pizza counter quietly awaiting Chef Peyton’s welcome to the Pizzakase tasting experience, which gave us a front-row view of the kitchen where he hand-stretched dough. He asked us, “What are you interested in eating tonight?” Our reply, “Chef, we’re leaving it up to you.”
We chatted with Chef Peyton about his college soccer-playing career and his travels. He told us he travels to Italy more than once a year, as he explained the technique for preparing double-fermented dough.
For me, the best-tasting of the two pizzas served was the Neapolitan-style fried pizza dough that puffs up into a golden crust and is topped with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
After our server informed us about the evening’s singular dinner special, we chose the Tuna Tuna, an appetizing starter of tuna served two ways over Asian Slaw. Sitting amongst two other couples in the tucked-away room, the setting felt intimate, and we quietly chatted over the backdrop of jazz music.
My Cab Filet Mignon arrived beautifully plated and cooked to my liking, served on a bed of creamy horseradish with mushrooms, spinach, goat cheese, and gnocchi.
After a rich-tasting meal, I wanted a dessert that included fruit but appealed to my craving for a Southern-inspired dessert. The server recommended the Peach and Blueberry Cobbler, which didn’t resemble the biscuit-style classic dish, but it was served warm with vanilla ice cream, and the cake-like dessert satisfied.
After waiting quite a while for the server to bring the requested check, we paid for the meal and explored the restaurant’s patio, which featured landscaping, a bubbling fountain, and enclosed dining areas.
Imagine a speakeasy setting for only a few guests in a curtained-off, dimly lit room where guests are encouraged to let a roll of the dice determine their cocktail order.
Upon return, it was our task to sip, savor, and guess which spirits were used to create each concoction. Surprisingly, most of my guesses proved correct.
PRO TIP: Check their 
A sprinkling of rain began to fall, but we didn’t acknowledge it while sipping small-batch craft beers in good company.
Some of the beers are poured directly from the tanks, while others are kegged and poured from draft lines. It’s this authenticity of the craft and attention to detail that make their beer top-quality, and yes, they do pour non-boozy drinks as well.
The owners, JW and Kristen Ray, began their winemaking journey with 
I can vouch for Bistro Europa’s excellent cuisine, which earned it a prestigious Diner’s Choice Award by OpenTable.
Paired with the Cabernet Franc and the Vidal Blanc, the dining experience was exceptional, topped only by the personable waitstaff.
Online 
The rustic Old-World style is evident in defined by rocks walls and dark wood beams. Inside, visitors discover a massive tasting facility complete with a restaurant,
PRO TIP: Reserve 
We walked the grounds with a volunteer guide, pausing to learn about specific species of 
Some of the Greater Gardens are color-themed, as Katharine wished, while other sections are dedicated to growing a variety of plants, herbs, and produce, with yields up to 2,500 pounds donated to the non-profit organization, H.O.P.E., to fight food scarcity.
Following the breathtaking pathways, we discovered original buildings that the Reynolds children used as playhouses. One can explore more than two miles of trails, many of which are paved pathways through thick woodland, which opens up to a meadow.
NOTE: Casual photo-taking is approved, but formal photography sessions need to be scheduled.
PRO TIP: Visit during the morning hours during cooler weather. Start the tour in the 
While you can tour it at your own pace, we chose a docent-guided tour that welcomed us to experience the exhibit, “Layered Looking: Making Sense of Art,” freely and without overinterpretation.
It’s an architectural wonder. Constructed in 1878, it was crafted by interior designer Jule Gilmer Körner as a showcase of his design work, but it doubled as his family’s residence.
Narrow doorways open to reception rooms, and the Cupid’s Park Theatre is awe-inspiring, as it is believed to be the first private little theatre in America.
Other points of interest that stopped us in our tracks were the porches with marble picnic tables and a separate home, Aunt Dealy’s Cottage, where an enslaved woman, Clara, lived with the family.
About 40 costumed interpreters demonstrating their craft, from making earthenware to cooking a meal over an open fire, welcomed us to learn about Moravian culture as we entered each building.
At the Miksch House, a woman gave an oral history of the first family home in Salem. An interpreter told us the history of the sole medical doctor’s practice and how the garden’s herbs were used in tonics.
Our two-hour tour was comprehensive, covering the history of the Moravian community and its people.
You could spend all day at Old Salem Museums & Gardens. I’d love to return to explore the 
Our guide led us through downtown streets, stopping to tell us about the town’s historic buildings and parks.
Triad Eco Adventures offers 
Lake lovers can rent Jon boats or kayaks, or drop a line from the marina’s Fishing Station.
Despite our fear of heights, we made it to the edge of the overlook and were rewarded with a spectacular view.
You can drive directly up to the parking, and the viewing platforms are paved.
I grew up visiting the region, and my first visit to Larned confirmed that it’s a town deserving of an overnight stay to experience all it offers, from historical tours and outdoor adventures to strolling downtown businesses.
I recommend visiting midweek, when most shops and restaurants on Broadway Street are open.
They have a variety of specialty coffee and tea drinks, and I recommend asking to view the seasonal menu. I sipped a Queen Bee Latté between bites of a fresh-from-the-oven banana nut muffin.
Also known for serving Italian Cream Soda and Dirty Sodas, the shop will appeal to customers with a sweet tooth, offering drinks made with flavored syrups such as Cotton Candy Dream and Cocoa Caramel Kiss.
The 13-seat diner smelled of freshly cooked bacon as the morning sun made the vinyl-covered, cherry- red stools sparkle. A television played the news while I awaited a heaping plate of the day’s special: French Toast with eggs and bacon.
I ate every bite, watching as Larned residents came and went with pick-up orders in hand. The owners greeted each child by name and asked about their summer plans.
After a morning of exploring, I devoured a well-seasoned bacon cheeseburger and a side of hot onion rings.
The staff serves beer and cocktails from a full bar, with additional seating near the cash register.
A bell rang, alerting my server to deliver my order: a combination plate featuring a freshly prepared chile relleño and a beef taco with guacamole salad, both from the Luncheon menu. Their salsa is some of the best I’ve tasted while road-tripping through Kansas.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner specialty entrees you’d expect, plus a rotating selection of bar drink specials, such as margaritas and Mexican beer.
You’ll also find 11 different burger options, steaks, shrimp, or fish with fries, as well as wraps, salads, and protein-packed sandwiches like the Philly Cheesesteak on the menu. Families are welcome at the bar and grill. The kids’ menu features seven meals.
An added touch of salt made my chicken-fried steak dinner better between sips of iced tea. I’m glad I ordered the “small” plate, which was plenty of food for one. My only regret is not planning ahead to enjoy the cheesecake egg rolls.
The 
Other areas of the park include a beloved duck pond, basketball and tennis courts, a water fountain, a playground, and picnic spots with grills.
Park at the gravel lot and then use the paved sidewalk to navigate to the shoreline or extended fishing dock.
Fancy a game of tennis? Bring your equipment to play at the courts before pausing for a hydration break on a tree-shaded bench.
The rusted, twisted piece of steel curved toward the sun. An original piece of the World Trade Center in New York, a relic of the 9-11 tragedy, it is a portion of the perimeter column located between the 34th and 35th floors of the No. 2 building.
PRO TIP: Look under the jagged metal at its base, which includes iron legs scaled to resemble the twin towers.
As a former high school golfer, I can attest that the fairways and greens were in top condition, given the hot summer temperatures. Golf carts meandered across the course as a men’s league wrapped up its play.
Before the railroad connected the West, wagon trains traveled the Santa Fe Trail carrying goods, dreams, and determination across the prairie.
For the most part, the Plains Indians respected the trail’s commerce. However, Kiowa Indians pounced upon Fort Larned on July 17, 1864, stealing over 170 horses and mules, thus creating a reason to escort wagon trains westward thereafter.
The best way to explore the fort is to arrange a 45-minute guided tour with a park ranger in advance, starting at the visitor center.
The park ranger’s key unlocked access to the men’s barracks, where 68 soldiers slept in iron beds (two men to a bed) in 1871. The smell of the original wood floors, foot lockers, and vintage wool jackets permeated the summer-warm air.
The soldiers’ humble living quarters stood in stark contrast to the officers’ spacious homes, decorated with hand-hewn furniture, rugs, and tables adorned with china and silverware.
The idea of working as a woman tasked with doing the soldiers’ laundry or tending the fort’s garden in the harsh Kansas heat and cold winters gave me pause.
To experience the fort in all of its glory with reenactors in costume giving demonstrations, attend one of the living history events during Memorial Day Weekend (May), Labor Day Weekend, Buffalo Soldier Fourth of July, Candlelight Tours (2nd Saturday in October), and Christmas Past (2nd Saturday in December).
ACCESSIBILITY: While much of the site is wheelchair-accessible over grass or a level, sandy trail, there are required steps to access buildings.
Indian artifacts, trade goods, and historic photos bring the trail era, dating back to 1821, to life.
Replica period rooms are designed to help museum-goers visualize what it was like to live in a middle-class home in the 1900s.
But my favorite part of the museum experience awaited me outdoors, where I took a self-guided tour of the historic Escue Chapel, the first church built by African American residents in the community.
Other outdoor buildings, like the dug-out house and sod house, represent how early pioneer settlers lived on the Kansas plains.
PRO TIP: The research library is free and open to the public, and if you’re interested in local genealogy, ask about access to the archives.
I didn’t see any original wagon ruts nearby, but I did stop to pay my respects at several Civil War graves.
Park at the gravel parking lot and follow the paved sidewalks to the interpretive signs that tell Pike’s story. Take note of the small mock gravestones honoring Private Robert Easley and Private Arthur Hughes, who perished in the area during the 1840s.
I was pleasantly surprised to find racks of colorful, fashionable blouses and jeans priced at $3 to $10.
Need a gift for a baby shower or a housewarming party? Shop the retail space for the ideal gift for someone, with country music playing in the background.
Owned and operated by two sisters, Scraps is a catch-all stop where you can purchase a grab-and-go meal or linger a while over coffee with friends from a comfortable couch.
Whatever you need, you’ll find it at Scraps. And should you require wedding supply services, the owners handle it all: catering, cakes, flowers, and tux rentals.
I’ve shopped plenty of antique stores, and this one is an experience. Located in the oldest church in town, dating back to 1897, Old Church Antiques showcases the collections of 18 vendors.
Walk downstairs to the lower level to purchase homemade baked goods from 
One visit to Old Church Antiques and Blessings Bakery won’t suffice. The store’s inventory and the bakery’s specials are updated frequently, so plan a return trip.
The store is a mainstay for the community, having recently celebrated 20 years of providing fresh floral arrangements, houseplants, gifts, body products, and candy.
Women will appreciate the keychains, dish towels, and coffee mugs with imprinted phrasing that speaks to them. Many of the home accents are floral-themed, making it a one-stop shop for the gardener in your life who deserves a gift.
Within minutes of my arrival, Dody took me under her wing, showing me interesting treasures, which included the store’s vast collection of framed artwork and prints.
PRO TIP: Walk into the store’s back room to explore shelves of out-of-print, national publications, from magazines to newspapers.
Located in its current spot since 1952, the store occupies 25,000 square feet of retail space, offering exactly what you need and want for your home.
In awe, I told the owner that I wished I had shopped for our furniture at her store rather than making multiple trips to various Wichita furniture stores to redesign our living room.
I adored the store’s selection of classic separates and in-season fashions, and I tried on a cute, floral dress. The store’s inventory ranges in sizes from small to extra large and appeals to most age groups.
Dress It Up makes it easy to pull together pieces to create new outfits, adding jewelry and shoes to complete the look. Tessa has her finger on the pulse of the latest fashions and hand-curates pieces for the shop.
Ready to repaint the interior of your home? The staff at the Paint Shop can personalize your purchase to your DIY needs.
What makes shopping at Doerr’s Ace Hardware even better? They fundraise for community causes. That’s why I love a locally-owned hardware store.
I was pleasantly surprised to find on-trend apparel at a price point most women ages 30 to 70 can afford.
PRO TIP: Watch Crossroots Boutique’s 
Installed in 2016, the towering, life-size figure with impressive details was made in Los Angeles by Bronzeman using the lost-wax process. A plaque reads, “For the Love of the Game,” in memory of Michael Bartz.
Die-hard mural seekers will want to keep their eyes peeled for murals adorning buildings at Larned’s city parks as well, like the one pictured below at Doerr Vernon Splash Pad and Park.
Library staff member encouraged me to use the complimentary high-speed WiFi and to explore the book shelves. During my Kansas Room work session, a second employee checked on me, proving that Larned residents truly are some of the nicest folks.
View the theatre’s Facebook page to review 
If you love discovering places where history comes alive and pausing to shop and dine at local businesses, add 
The painting features a Prairie Band Potawatomi singer and drummer, Little Soldier Drum, as well as Fancy Dancer and Fancy Shawl Dancer.
Don’t miss the nearby multicolored murals on the snack shack, propane tank, and a painted bench, which is the ideal spot for a family portrait.
The metalwork installation, one of many media Larson works in, is a nod to the prairie landscape and the American buffalo.
I also discovered more artwork painted on a long propane tank, which celebrates each person’s place in the world. After closer review, I recognized Native American symbolism depicting animals in nature.
On the opposite side of the community building, you’ll see quilt blocks adorning its facade.
As I arrived, a local resident delivered farm-fresh eggs for the market to prepare breakfast for its regular customers.
Nikki slices the meat for each sandwich to stuff between pillowy soft bread with provolone cheese, peppers, and a drizzle of Italian dressing.
Whether you stop for breakfast, lunch, or grocery supplies, bring a road-worthy cooler with ice to keep your premium cut meat cold.
Visiting the family-owned filling station is like stepping back in time, and you should appreciate it before the owner, Jeff, retires and sells the property.
Constructed in 1911, the city jail is the oldest building in Hoyt. The primitive building sits on land purchased for $75
I didn’t have the gumption to open the door to a nearby outhouse, which I suspect was added as part of an Eagle Scout Project in the Spring of 2019.
Take a closer look. Each of those faux bricks is hand-painted to look realistic.
I appreciate that Arnold left the ghost sign of a former furniture sign untouched on the building’s surface above his mural.
Sweet Sassy Molassy serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with menu items ranging from burgers and chicken strip baskets to salads. Ask about ordering cinnamon rolls to go.
Adjacent playground equipment lets kids burn off energy while parents relax on a shaded bench beneath a canopy of trees.
The facilities and available parking are free to use.
While gambling is not my preferred activity, I took a beeline for its resort, noting a tranquil outdoor courtyard and an on-site spa meant to inspire relaxation.
As a hotel guest, I could envision myself ordering a cocktail at the nearby indoor bar and sitting in the courtyard as the sun sets and the waterfall trickles.
Prairie Band Casino & Resort also hosts live music and stand-up comedy shows. Golfers will want to pack their clubs to play 
The Barnes family moved to Circleville when the boys were young during a time when they were influenced by their father’s love of the game.
Events like the Barrel Series are posted regularly on their 
I visited prior to Memorial Day, so numerous gravestones honoring military veterans were decorated by volunteers or family members. As you drive through the small cemetery, you’ll also find a 
The scene was tranquil, and the only sound I could hear was the occasional neigh from the horses grazing across the road in nearby countryside.
It’s the community hub, where residents not only pick up their mail but also pick up a copy of The Holton Recorder, pausing to chat with locals while their dog sips water from the complimentary bowl on the front steps.
The family-owned and operated restaurant serves meat combination plates and stacked, sauced sandwiches, and you can bet there is a unique meal special written on the dry-erase board.
My brisket meal checked all of the boxes, served with my choice of two sides: truffle mac-and-cheese and cheesy corn. Each one was scumptious, and overall I thought the mac-and-cheese was well prepared, although I didn’t detect a truffle flavor.
I couldn’t resist ordering a slice of homemade pie. A short list of available pie flavors, prepared by a local baker, was written on the glass of a reach-in cooler.
When the baker, who was seated nearby, heard me order a Peanut Butter Cup pie slice, she waved at me.
Bill and Debra offered me a freshly baked cookie before we set out on a walking tour of the property, which included gardens, an event center, and additional buildings for overnight guests.
I was amazed to learn that the happily married couple manages the entire ranch and event center, from preparing breakfast meals for guests to hosting weddings and church groups.
For me, the highlight of my stay was meeting the animals that roamed the ranch. Howdy, a cattle dog, greeted me daily, offering me his paw as we sat and watched hummingbirds dance around a feeder.
The Red Rock Bed and Breakfast is a delightful place for a getaway that far exceeds your expectations, and one I’d repeat given how comfortable I felt there after getting to know the family who lives on the property.
Mornings start with a home-cooked breakfast served in the dining room. Enclosed sunrooms and a wraparound outdoor porch are enchanting spaces for chatting with others or reading a book in the afternoon.
If you’re seeking adventure, the ranch also offers six miles of groomed walking trails featuring 23 wildflower species.
And this list simply scratches the surface of the many 
For the size of the community, this gym impressed me with its cardio and weightlifting area, walking lanes, and 8,000-square-foot aquatic center.
They also have a full-size gymnasium for basketball and volleyball games, and if you’re visiting for the day, the locker rooms offer private access to showers.
I would compare the fitness facility’s offerings to those at a YMCA, making it a must-stop destination if you like to stay in shape while traveling.
This historic filling station is no longer a forgotten roadside gem, but an appreciated relic of the town’s past.
I appreciate a small-town grocery store with a deli counter, where a store employee slices meat for each order. And while I didn’t purchase groceries, I enjoyed chatting with an employee as she rang me up for a cold cream soda.
I’ve taken two road trips to Holton since 2022, and each visit reaffirms my love for the county seat.
High school alumni cruise around the Jackson County Courthouse square, throwing candy and beads; the sun sparkles on classic cars’ chrome at the car show, and kids play joyfully in bouncy houses nestled among vendor booths as families chat nearby.
The hum of food trucks’ generators can be heard over the festival announcer’s voice.
I couldn’t resist striking up a conversation with a couple who sat ready to chat about their car to passersby. They told me the story of the car’s restoration using original parts with pride.
If you buy a maker’s creation or a homemade cookie, you’re likely supporting a small business or a worthwhile local cause.
During my self-guided tour, I came upon whimsical paintings depicting flowers and landscape scenes. One door showcased a Mexican restaurant’s theme.
With names like “Giraffes on Parade,” “Random Scraps,” and “Flying Geese,” each quilt is an expression of the creator’s personality. Table toppers and queen-sized bedding creations draw attention.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss other Holton’s festivities throughout the year, like fireworks during 
You can expect a free, self-guided tour featuring exhibits on one-room schoolhouse items, Carrie Nation history, barbed wire history, World War I & II memorabilia, and the tools of 1900s trades.
Welcoming history lovers since 1984, the museum is also known for rotating art exhibits, and the artwork is often for sale. View the museum’s hours 
Sign the guestbook at the visitor’s desk when you arrive.
The homes on the tour are private residences except one, which is maintained by the Jackson County Historical & Genealogical Society.
If you want to view the home’s interior, make an appointment with the Jackson County Historical Museum.
The cannon pictured below is dedicated to Civil War soldiers and sailors and rests at the base of the town sign.
As you continue your walk around the courthouse, you’ll find an original horse water trough, circa 1880, positioned at the base of an old tree, indicating where riders would let their horses hydrate when stopping at the original courthouse square.
BONUS: Find another livestock water-trough marker north of the Linscott Park tennis court, within walking distance of downtown.
Kernodle’s two-frame mural showcases an early version of how the Tallgrass Prairie used to look when it flourished. The second painting on the right represents the current state of the prairie.
Other murals around town will grab your attention. Cruise just beyond the downtown boundary to see murals like the one pictured below, painted on the side of a building at Banner Creek Reservoir (10975 KS-16).
Seated indoors, I noticed that most of the morning café traffic came via the drive-thru. I found the café’s interior inviting. The employees were patient as I chose my menu items and were more than welcoming.
The entire place is adorned with frogs. Paintings, toys, and sit-a-bouts feature the green-colored amphibian. A life-size astronaut sculpture keeps watch over them.
I ordered an 8″ Meat Lovers Pizza at the counter and sat down and waited for it. Families continued to pour into the restaurant looking for open seating. Customers with call-in orders approached the counter. The phone never stopped ringing.
PRO TIP: Beat the lunch rush or call the restaurant for a to-go pizza, especially if you’re visiting Holton during a community festival. Bring cash for payment or pay a fee when using a credit card.
As we made our way to a table, I stopped to peer into a double-door refrigerator stocked with plates of sliced pie. I knew I wasn’t leaving the restaurant without devouring a slice.
The meal lived up to the hype, and the cafe is worthy of a repeat visit.
Boomers’ Steakhouse, Grill and Catering gets my vote for the best dinner experience in Holton for its friendly service, quality steak dinner, and strawberry pie (don’t skip dessert!).
The restaurant includes full bar service, so if you’re hoping to complement your meal with a hand-crafted cocktail, cold beer, or glass of wine, you’re in luck.
I chose the last open seat at the bar to order a BLT and fries. Packed with Glory Days attendees looking for a bite to eat, I waited about 30 minutes for my meal. Bar-seat diners can watch as staff drops handfuls of fries and appetizers into boiling-hot fryer grease.
The owner/baker moved to Kansas from Australia, bringing her culinary talents to a loyal following of customers. She prepares a rotating selection of more than 150 cheesecakes sold by the jar.
But it’s more than a general store. It’s where locals make memories, from purchasing sweet treats to reserving tuxedos for the high school prom.
During my visit, I watched as parents pushed strollers and ushered their kids up to the old-fashioned, original ice cream counter to order for them.
I also spotted kids in the store gleefully looking at the candy shelves and asking their parents for retro candy or premium chocolate bars, which are among the store’s biggest sellers. It’s an after-school drop-by spot for kids who want to buy bulk candy on their way home.
Holton Mercantile is a mainstay, dating back decades. You’ll appreciate the building’s original floors and tin ceiling. Go for the nostalgia, the ice cream, and shop the store’s inventory to support local.
Shoppers earn discounts if they sign up for the “Text Club” and are willing to ship items via USPS to you. If you join their rewards membership, you earn one point per pre-tax dollar you spend.
Glass orbs hang from delicate strings on display. The sunlight through the store’s windows shines through pretty paperweights and beams through bowls and colorful vases.
PRO TIP: Check the More Than Lemons 
Displays of battery-operated candles flicker from store shelves nestled next to beautiful plates and framed art. Love the table or the armoire? It’s probably for sale. Seeking Kansas-inspired artwork? Check out Triple B Hilltop Farm’s items.
At the front of the store, I spied a pop-up floral display with fresh, locally grown flowers for sale on the day of my visit. Jewelry, handbags, and some body projects were displayed near the register.
In addition, you’ll discover more Kansas-made products, from home decor to packaged specialty foods, on display. You’re bound to want a canister of hot chocolate mix, apple butter, or bread mix.
Nearby women discussed accessories as I shopped the rear of the store, which displayed children’s plush toys and clothing and accessories for girls who love pattern and ruffled dresses.
Rows of all-natural dietary supplements and essential oils line store shelves. T-shirts, hair accessories, jewelry, and Natural Life® gift items can be purchased to create a gift basket for someone you appreciate.
The inventory consists of twenty-two vendors’ hand-curated antiques, and like me, you’ll find yourself wandering from room to room in search of a nostalgic item that triggers a memory.
PRO TIP: Road-trippers will want to view the stairway covered in vintage license plates, a photo-worthy backdrop.
Prior to the performance, attendees enjoyed a catered homestyle meal with dessert at community tables with other audience members. Affordable cocktails were available for purchase.
I’d highly recommend planning your trip to Holton around the theater’s upcoming performance. To view the event schedule and reserve a ticket, visit the box office details 
It was named in honor of Major and Mrs. Milton Moses Beck, who were early residents of the town. The library has remained open to the public since 1952.
The Veterans Memorial impresses. Holton is a Purple Heart City, so the on-site memorial honors every medal recipient. A World War II memorial pays tribute to Company “E” of the 137th Infantry, which died in the war.
The park features tennis and basketball courts, playground equipment, and a shelter house available for reservation. The park is one of six public 
As I looked for a clear or colored orb, I appreciated the picturesque views, including fishing piers, a 9-hole disc golf course, and campsites. Walking trails weaved around the lake.
Unfortunately, I didn’t find an orb, but I enjoyed the search.
The reservoir, established in 1997, is an outdoor lover’s playground with free access to miles of hiking and biking trails, campsites, bird-watching, and fishing for catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass.
After visiting countless Kansas towns, I’ve decided that Holton is not only one of the most welcoming, but it also offers more than enough to see and do during a visit. You may need to visit multiple times, like me.
Shoppers travel miles to shop at the store for Nora Fleming, Spartina purses, Vera Bradley bags, and Melissa & Doug toys. The front of the story features in-season displays.
NOTE: The store’s owner is closing its doors for good after 12 years of business on June 27, 2026.
Travel to Holton for an overnight stay to explore a small-town setting with some of the state’s top attractions. You’ll never lack for something to discover in this charming town north of Topeka.
