It’s winter now, but have you considered what you’ll do for spring break next year? Or perhaps you love the cold and this is the perfect time to take advantage of some deals right after the holidays. Family vacations for Kansans often involve crossing state lines, but have you considered staying in state for once? These 13 towns make for the most awesome vacations you’ve probably never thought of.
1. Wichita
Wichita might be one of our biggest cities, but that shouldn't exclude it from travel plans. Stay at the scenic Hyatt and tour the museums along the river, Riverside park, and amazing eateries downtown like Bite Me BBQ or the Brickyard.
2. Lawrence
Cozy up at the Circle S Ranch & Country Inn, where you can sleep in scenic comfort and enjoy a homemade breakfast. In Lawrence, browse their shopping center, check out Clinton State Park, or browse local art and history museums. Then, feast on the famous 715 Restaurant, Zen Zero, or Free Sate Brewing Company.
3. Topeka
The perfect place to stay in Topeka is the historic Woodward, where you'll stay the night in a cozy mansion right out of the 20's. Spend your time here at the capitol building, the Topeka Zoo, the Museum of History, or the Children's Discovery Center. Then, eat your heart out at Bobo's Drive In (a must-have), Rowhouse, or The Burger Stand.
4. Dodge City
Get your kicks at the Boothill Bed & Breakfast, and get into the spirit of the town. The obvious attraction to visit would be Boot Hill, but there's plenty else to do here as well. There's the Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame, the Famous Gunfighters Wax Museum, and the Home of Stone museum. Then, grab your grub at Dodge City Steakhouse, Central Station, or Kate's.
5. Atchison
If you're staying in Atchison for the first time, the best route is the Tuck U Inn at Glick Mansion or Inn on Oak Street, both of which offer great scenery with your stay. Check out Amelia Earhart's birthplace, the supposedly haunted Sallie House, and the International Forest of Friendship. While you're here, make sure to check out Pete's Steakhouse, Iron Horse BBQ, Gateway to Kansas, and your delicious breakfast where you stay.
6. Marysville
Stay at the retro Oak Tree Inn, and then spend your days here visiting the Pony Express Museum and then go south to visit Alcove Springs' beautiful waterfall. Make sure to try eating at Penny's Diner, Wagon Wheel Cafe, and Dorothy's Place.
7. Russell
If I were to pick the happiest town in Kansas, I'd pick Russell. The best place to stay in town would be Simple Haven, where you can expect a cozy country feel, where you always feel at home. Eat out at Meridy's, Screwloose BBQ, the Gathering Place, and 840 Ale House before heading out for the day. In Russell, you can enjoy the Dream Theater, Wilson Lake, and the Dorrance Museum.
8. Wamego
Visiting the land of oz is always a treat, but it's nice to see most of it concentrated in one area. A great place to stay is the Victory Inn, where you'll be resting before a big day of the Oz museum, historical museum, and eating out at Toto's Tacoz. OF course, you should also try Barleycorn's and La Hacienda.
9. Scott City
Staying in The Guest House is a must for any visitors here, and it gives you the best place to rest for a day (or more) of adventure. Explore the nearby Monument Rocks for a whole day, or work in a visit to Battle Canyon and the El Quartelejo museum. Then, dine on some of Scott City's finest at Tate's, The Grill House, or El Dos De Oros.
10. Medicine Lodge
The ever-beautiful Gypsum Hills are always a draw to this area, but you can also find beauty at the historic Stockade. Spend the night at the Bunkhouse at Wildfire Ranch, and grab a bite at Burger Shack-n-snack, Raykies, or Rattlers.
11. Garden City
Garden City is full of things to do, from the Parrot Cove Indoor Waterpark, to the Finney County Historical Museum, to the Lee Richardson Zoo. Stay at the Sunnyland Bed and Breakfast, surrounded by gorgeous scenery and filled with comfort. Then, fill up at Sammy's Spirits and Steakhouse, Hanna's Corner, and El Conquistador.
12. Liberal
This town is another land of Oz, featuring a recreation of Dorothy's House, the Mid-America Air Museum, and the Ihop Hall of Fame. Lay your head to rest at Shady Lane or Willows Inn, both of which provide comfort and customer satisfaction. Then, get your grub on at Cattleman's II, Ruffino's, or One Way Deli. I've also heard that Billy's Blue Duck BBQ is worth a try as well!
13. Council Grove
The Cottage House is the perfect place to spend the night in this historic town filled with all sorts of attractions. Spend a while touring the Neosho Riverwalk, Pioneer Jail, the local lake, and of course, the restaurants. Dine at the historic Hays House, or choose others like Saddlerock or Trail Days Cafe for equally satisfying experiences.
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