Nestled in the historic 18th and Vine District, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum holds tales from the past. This Kansas City attraction is located at 1616 E 18th St, on the Missouri side of the city. It connects to the American Jazz Museum as a cultural cornerstone, setting the tone for a deeply enriching experience. […]
Honoring The Past At The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Read More »
Road-tripping through the Midwest is like embarking on a treasure hunt, where the prizes come in the form of crispy corn dogs, down-home fried chicken, and sliders grilled to perfection. Out here, diners are packed with locals who’ve been coming for generations. The menus proudly boast regional quirks and the atmosphere is as comforting as
Kansas City is never short on options for finding great food and a fun atmosphere. Tucked away at 1301 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO, we discovered Laney’s Get Down, a lively eatery serving up bold Southern flavors with a side of entertainment. From the moment we stepped inside, the vibrant energy of the place was
The Johnson County Museum, located at 8788 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, Kansas, offers visitors an immersive look into the region’s vibrant past. Housed in a historic landmark, this museum is a treasure trove of stories, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that highlight the evolution of Johnson County. From its tumultuous Civil War history to the suburban
Kansas City is a paradise for barbecue lovers, and one of the most iconic establishments is Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque. Located at 1727 Brooklyn Avenue, this legendary eatery has served smoky, slow-cooked meats for decades. The moment we stepped inside, the rich aroma of hickory smoke wrapped around us like an old friend. We planned a
Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque: A Kansas City BBQ Legend Read More »
Tucked in Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine District, the American Jazz Museum, at 1616 E 18th St., is where music history comes alive. From the moment we walked in, the energy was electric—photos of jazz greats lined the walls, the soft hum of saxophones filled the air, and interactive exhibits invited us to dive
Exploring the American Jazz Museum: Step Into The Rhythm Read More »
One of my earliest jobs was as a gas station attendant on 7th Street, near downtown Kansas City, Kansas. Right across the street from the station was a Go Chicken Go restaurant. Mine wasn’t a glamorous job; it was a time when operations moved to pay-before-you-pump. I spent most hours sitting in an enclosed booth,
Stepping into The History Museum in South Bend feels like walking onto the set of A League of Their Own. One big difference is that this isn’t Hollywood magic; it’s the real story. The museum’s All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) exhibit brings the history of these groundbreaking athletes to life. It showcases their impact
The Real ‘A League of Their Own’ History in South Bend Read More »
Tucked away in Kansas City, Kansas, the Wyandotte County Museum is a hidden gem filled with rich local history. Located at 631 N. 126th St., this FREE museum offers an insightful journey through the past, showcasing artifacts and stories many locals may not even be aware of. As lifelong residents, Crystal and I were eager
Fort Wayne, Indiana, offers an exciting food scene with delicious surprises. This Midwest city delivers a mix of classic comfort foods, innovative cuisine, and sweet treats. Whether you’re craving a famous hot dog, wood-fired pizza, or Asian-inspired dishes, Fort Wayne has a spot to satisfy your appetite. The city has locally owned restaurants, thriving food
Moon Marble Company has become a must-visit destination for families, collectors, and nostalgia seekers. This unique shop, nestled in Bonner Springs, Kansas, offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of marbles and classic games. We’ve been drawn to the store for its vast selection and the live marble-making demonstrations. Stepping inside Moon Marble is like
Moon Marble: A Timeless Treasure in Bonner Springs, Kansas Read More »
There was a time when Indian Springs Mall was the heart of shopping in Kansas City, Kansas. Families strolled the corridors, browsing department stores, and stopping for a bite. Tucked inside the once-bustling mall, Italian Delight served up New York-style pizza slices that became a favorite for locals. I remember grabbing a quick slice or
Italian Delight: A Kansas City Favorite That Stands the Test of Time Read More »
Barbecue enthusiasts know that the best BBQ isn’t confined to one region. Our Kansas City BBQ roots have allowed us to hone our skills at uncovering great BBQs. Each spot brings its unique flavors to the table. From smoky ribs to tender brisket, North America’s barbecue scene is packed with memorable bites. Throughout our travels,
Savor the Best BBQ: 8 North American Stops NOT in Kansas City Read More »
The Midwest is brimming with creativity, and nowhere is that more evident than in its grassroots art destinations. Quirky, captivating, and downright fascinating, these stops are must-visits for anyone exploring the heartland. From whimsical sculptures to eccentric environments, these three grassroots art attractions offer a one-of-a-kind road trip experience. Fill the tank, grab some road
3 Quirky Grassroots Art Stops In The Central Midwest Read More »
The Central Midwest offers a captivating blend of history and culture, and a road trip to explore its historic forts is a journey back in time. Fort Osage, Fort Hays, Fort Scott, and Fort Leavenworth each hold unique stories that showcase the region’s pivotal role in shaping America. We found that each stop added new
Protecting The Plains: Exploring Historic Midwest Forts Read More »
Kansas City is a treasure trove of unique experiences, and its museums showcase a rich tapestry of culture, history, and innovation. Beyond the usual tourist stops, this city boasts a collection of one-of-a-kind museums that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore something new, these six uniquely Kansas
As 2024 drew to a close, we decided to start our New Year’s Eve celebrations with a memorable brunch at The Phoenix. This historic jazz club, in Kansas City, has a reputation for good vibes, great food, and live music that feeds the soul. Located at 302 W. 8th Street, this KC eatery resides on
New Year’s Eve at The Phoenix: A Jazzed Up Brunch Read More »
Our visit to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights offered a deep dive into Canada’s complex history. Located in the heart of Winnipeg, this stunning architectural marvel drew us in with its promise of thought-provoking exhibits. While the museum covers human rights struggles worldwide, we focused on the experiences of Canada’s Indigenous and Métis peoples.
Breaking The Silence: A Journey Through The Canadian Museum For Human Rights Read More »
There’s something magical about enjoying a meal at Harvey’s during the Christmas season. This hidden gem sits in plain sight of locals and travelers alike. The setting is Kansas City’s Union Station, adorned with a huge Christmas tree, festive decorations, and twinkling lights. We were eager to dive into a delicious lunch while soaking in
Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Rolling Hills Zoo offers a delightful mix of adventure and education. During our visit, we discovered that this Salina gem holds more than just animals; it’s packed with hidden wonders waiting to be explored. From the immersive wildlife museum to up-close animal encounters, every turn revealed something unexpected. This
If there’s one thing we’ve learned on our travels, it’s that a great BBQ joint can make any day better. Recently, we found ourselves in Lansing, Michigan, with a craving for smoky, Southern-style goodness. Enter Meats Southern BBQ, where the air is filled with the mouthwatering aroma of smoked meats, and the vibe is all
Savoring Local Flavor: A Visit to Meats Southern BBQ in Lansing, Michigan Read More »
They say that education is one of the best investments. Does that mean if you learn about money, you are doubling the value of your education? Perhaps my math doesn’t quite add up, but you can certainly learn a lot at The Money Museum. This FREE attraction offers a lot for all ages and helps
With a crisp morning breeze at our backs, we set out for a day of animal encounters, nature-inspired eats, and peaceful garden strolls in Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park. From majestic polar bears to lush botanical displays, this spot offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventures and captivating exhibits. Assiniboine Park’s attractions, the Zoo and The Leaf,
A Day of Discovery at Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park Zoo & The Leaf Read More »
Discover North America’s Hidden Gems Meet Jeff and Crystal, the travel blogging couple behind Our Changing Lives. United by a shared passion for discovery, they bring their unique talents together to uncover hidden gems and share authentic experiences. Jeff’s love for history and trivia fuels his research and storytelling, diving deep into the past to
Explore the Best U.S. Travel Destinations Each state has its charm, from vibrant cities to wide open spaces. Whether you’re looking for natural wonders or local flavors, our state-by-state breakdown makes it easy to plan your next adventure and experience the diverse beauty of the U.S. From bustling cities to peaceful small towns, we’ve got
From windswept prairies to small towns brimming with character, Southwest Kansas is a destination that exceeded our expectations. As locals, we thought we knew the state well, but our first FAM (familiarization) trip had us discovering new facets of Kansas life that we’d never experienced before. From the quirky roadside attractions to the rich history
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Southwest Kansas: A FAM Trip Full of Surprises Read More »
Every fall, as the cool October air begins to settle over Kansas City, Kansas, something truly magical takes place in the heart of the city. Día de Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, transforms Central Avenue into a vivid celebration of life, memory, and tradition. Amid a backdrop of city vibes, soulful music, and
Vibrant Spirits & Colorful Souls: Experiencing Día de Muertos in Kansas City, Kansas Read More »
Sail back in time to the early days of the Canadian frontier. The Manitoba Museum offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. With its impressive exhibits showcasing the province’s natural and cultural history, guests can explore everything from the rich heritage of Indigenous peoples to modern-day Winnipeg. The museum features interactive
Where does the time go? It’s hard to fathom that this newly married couple has become seasoned travel veterans. Back in 1981, our lives were changing rapidly. I began my career in flexible packaging in January. September brought our wedding and before long we started a family. Now more than four decades down the road
Living in Tornado Alley, an area stretching from Texas to Nebraska, means grappling with both the thrill and the challenge of nature’s raw power. For decades, Greensburg, Kansas was known for being the home of the largest hand-dug well in the world. On the evening of May 7, 2007, their history would be forever changed. Residents
Whenever I plan a trip itinerary, it needs to include a variety of dining experiences. We hope it will provide enough choices for others to find something they like. Winnipeg has so many options that I struggled to narrow them down. After a day filled with visits to the zoo and botanical gardens, we were
A visit to the Hjemkomst Center, in Moorhead, Minnesota is a good way to examine the Norwegian influence on the region.
We consider ourselves blessed to reside in a city with many diverse attractions. Museums are one of our favorite destinations, and the Museum at Prairiefire fits a specific niche in this category. The museum is inside the Prairiefire neighborhood at 5801 W. 135th Street in Overland Park, Kansas. The building is the first in North
It seems that the whole world has seen or read something about Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que. When we think of KC barbeque restaurants, this is one of the most well-known. The love for Kansas City-style barbecue is strong enough, that on any given day, you can see license plates from across America. A visit to one
It’s been a few years since our first Canada visit, so we were eager to return to the friendly north. Our research showed that Winnipeg is only a 12-hour drive from Kansas City. This made it easy to pick our next destination. We liked that our first taste of Manitoba would be in a city
Our First Taste of Manitoba – Forks And Fergie’s Read More »
Road tripping is our passion, but we wondered what the farthest distance a day trip should involve. 2024 seemed like a good year to test this out, so we planned a series of short excursions. Each one would take us a little farther away from our home in Kansas City. Two-hour drives are no issue,
It’s been said that the simple things are quite often the best. Such is the case at Tay’s Burger Shack, located at 1019 Armour Road, in North Kansas City, Missouri. You won’t find page after page of menu items. Here they focus on a few things and they do them right. This hole-in-the-wall eatery has
We are on a mission to show people that interesting stories are found all across North America. One of our favorite historic destinations is Abilene, Kansas. This northern stop along the Chisholm Trail has plenty of Wild West history, but the stories don’t end there. Our news feed is often filled with new things to
These days it is too easy to forget about the earliest residents in the lands we call home. So much of our lives revolve around the daily activities that we have disconnected ourselves from our history. This is why visiting places like the Museum Of Native American History is important. Finding a destination that focuses
How many times do we drive past a hole-in-the-wall destination without even noticing? If we are being honest with ourselves, this happens to us more than we like to admit. A prime example is a small restaurant that sits at 1032 Minnesota Ave., in Kansas City, Kansas. Home to GG’s Barbacoa Café, this petite diner
Being flatlanders doesn’t mean we have no resources for fun. With Kansas City as our starting point, we have a multitude of potential destinations within a 3-4 hour drive. On a beautiful Spring day, we hightailed it down the road for a Wichita adventure. The largest city in Kansas was calling our name and we
Abilene, Kansas held a few surprises for us. Some of you may have heard of the Brookville Hotel, which originated in Brookville, Kansas in the late 1800s. When it moved closer to the interstate, the story moved to a new page. Another generation of fried chicken lovers began discovering this iconic classic. The story doesn’t
Being Midwesterners, we were looking forward to our visit to Old Cowtown. Wichita has a lot of similarities to our hometown of Kansas City. Both cities were frontier towns, that grew famous for their cattle trade. They also have the confluence of two rivers in the heart of their city. It was near this junction
Let’s see a show of hands of the people who knew there was a TWA Museum in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. An unseasonably warm Saturday morning was the perfect chance to check it out. Located at 10 Richards Road, in the Charles B. Wheeler Airport, this unique museum highlights the 75-year lifespan of the airline.
When we think of the Wild West, visions of chuckwagons, cattle drives, and lonely cowboys play out in our minds. The steam engine, invented in the early 1800s, impacted the path of history. As the country raced to build railroads across the wide expanses, the age of steamboats arrived. Living on the confluence of two
Preserving History at the Arabia Steamboat Museum Read More »
The city of Williamsburg, Virginia is a familiar name to many people. Did you know that this historic settlement began as Middle Plantation? Way back in 1632, English settlers discovered this area provided high ground between the York and James rivers. The settlers began at Jamestown, in 1607, but quickly spread across the peninsula. After
Colonial Williamsburg – The Early Days Of America Read More »
What do you get when you combine delicious food and an astonishing collection of sports memorabilia? Located in North Kansas City, Missouri is Chappell’s Restaurant and Sports Museum. This sports fan Mecca opened in 1986 and has drawn visitors from far and wide. Notoriety has come from many directions, including lots of the top sports
Chappell’s Restaurant & Sports Museum – Eating Up History Read More »
Discovering Route 66: The Iconic American Roadway Welcome to the legendary Route 66, an iconic stretch of highway that has captured the hearts and imaginations of travelers for over a century. Spanning from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this historic route is more than just a road—it symbolizes adventure, freedom, and Americana. Dubbed the
We’ve known for years that the treasures of the United States aren’t found on the interstates. It’s the small towns and cities that fall around and between these thoroughfares that hold the essence of life in America. Lying northeast of Tulsa, you’ll find Pawhuska, Oklahoma. This town gained fame as the home of the Pioneer
Kansas City BBQ transcends normal cuisine status and is hailed as the standard by which other barbecue is judged. Don’t get us wrong, we have found delectable smoked meats all across North America. Barbecue started in a pit, where meats were cooked over a trench filled with burning embers. These days there are three main
Kansas City has an average of 100 rainy days per year. That may not sound like a lot, unless you have kids (or grandkids). What’s a parent (or grandparent) to do when the weather doesn’t cooperate for an outdoor activity? Don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of 10 kid friendly indoor attractions in Kansas City.
10 Kid Friendly Indoor Attractions In Kansas City Read More »
Since Fort Worth’s start, way back in 1849, this city has been known as a cowboy town. These days the city still embraces its rowdy past but with a different approach. We journeyed to where the west begins to scope out six family-friendly spots in Fort Worth. This One Day Stay would test our skills
If you’ve watched many westerns, you are familiar with Ben Johnson. This Oklahoma native, grew up ranching, before trying his hand as a stuntman in Hollywood. When John Ford gave him his break, he ran with it. Ben would appear in over 300 movies and win an Academy Award. In the middle of his acting
North America is filled with special places just waiting to be explored. As we move farther into our blogging life, our journeys have opened our eyes to new landscapes. This trip allowed us our first views of West Virginia, “The Mountain State”. Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, this capital city was once
Charleston, WV – Our First Visit To The Mountain State Read More »
Texas holds a special place in our hearts, so we always enjoy visits to the Lone Star State. With so much to see and do, we find that there just never seems to be enough time. This trip included four unique cities all within striking distance of the Dallas-Fort Worth region. After completing our visit
Growing up in the Midwest, we discovered the depth of flavors that can be found in this region’s dishes. I remember waiting impatiently as my grandmother fried up chicken for Saturday night dinner. The smell was intoxicating and I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into the crispy coating. Fast forward a few decades and
Delivering Crunch – Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Read More »
Each city we visit brings with it a chance to sample new flavors. Dining in downtown Grapevine, Texas offered a wide range of choices. With only three meals to plan, we had to narrow down our decisions. We decided to stick to Main Street, which is where a large portion of our activities were taking
A summer adventure led us down roads we had never wandered. Our first stop, on this eastern adventure, landed us in Charleston, West Virginia. Being our first foray into the Mountain State, we chose the capital city as our starting point. Situated just a few steps from the state capitol, the West Virginia State Museum
West Virginia State Museum – Our Doorway To The Past Read More »
During our time in Fort Worth, Texas, we were quickly discovering some hidden gems. With an interesting dinosaur exhibit in our future, we made a stop at the Fort Worth Science Museum. We expected to find a variety of scientific displays but the idea of a “museum in a museum” had never crossed our minds.
Over the years, we have made many trips to the largest city in Kansas. While we usually focus on the downtown region, we recently took time to check out Wichita’s east side. This suburban region is filled with the residents who keep this city running, so we were anxious to sample some new finds. What
Barbeque is almost a religion in Kansas City. Everyone has an opinion and a foundation from which they formed it. Rosedale Bar-B-Que started life on July 4, 1934. Originally known as The Bucket Shop, this was the spot for hot dogs and beer. What started as a way to survive the Depression, soon became a
Life in 1915 was far different from what we see today. Automobile travel was not as widespread, so many journeys involved train travel. In Palestine, Texas, those arriving by rail would find comfort in knowing the Redlands Hotel was awaiting our arrival. 108 years later, the hotel was again being called upon to house weary
Our first visit to Dallas, Texas would have been incomplete without a stop at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This world-class science center offers visitors a wide range of experiences. When I found out that they have tons of hands-on exhibits, it was put at the top of our list. To add to
Welcome to Our Changing Lives! We’ve come a long way from our early days with a local restaurant blog called “The Dotte Life” to launching Our Changing Lives in 2017. As our readership grew, we realized the power of connecting with others through travel. Once our nest was empty, we embraced the freedom to explore
Taste KC: Exploring the Best Eats in Kansas City Kansas City is a melting pot of flavors, offering everything from world-famous barbecue to international delights. To make it easier for you to explore the city’s diverse dining options, we’ve organized our restaurant articles by cuisine. Whether you’re craving smoky ribs, authentic Mexican street tacos, classic
Explore & Experience Kansas City Kansas City is a treasure trove of history, family-friendly fun, exciting day trips, and must-see annual events. Whether you’re uncovering the past at historic landmarks, seeking kid-approved adventures, planning a quick getaway, or looking for the best local festivals, we’ve got you covered. This page guides you in maximizing KC
Judging barbecue restaurants has always been subjective. We’ve approached our visits with an open mind. This has allowed us to find something we enjoy at each stop. A relative newcomer, to the Kansas City BBQ scene, is Buck Tui BBQ at 6737 W. 75th Street, in Overland Park. Their menu is a mix of East
Exploration Place is the perfect Wichita stop to act like kids again.
We find Christmas time to be a magical season. Everywhere we wander our views are filled with twinkling lights and brightly colored decorations. A day trip to Leavenworth, Kansas provided us with a special bonus. We missed the Carroll Mansion on our past visits, but fortunately this time we had time. They had recently finished
When we heard that Kansas City has a new mini-golf destination, we couldn’t wait to check it out. Crystal and I have long enjoyed a fun round of miniature golf. Prehistoric Putt, located at 13907 E. US Hwy 40 in Independence, is filled with some challenges that are unlike any we have seen before. We
The National World War 1 Museum and Memorial is not a memorial to the war. This national treasure is a reminder of the human spirit and the never-ending fight for peace. Life in the trenches was filled with short periods of sheer terror followed by long spans of boredom. Stretching across the horizon, these muddy, rat-infested trenches
Life in the Trenches – National World War 1 Museum Read More »
Opening a new barbecue in Kansas City is always risky business. With over 100 competitors already churning away, you’ll find yourself in an uphill battle. It’s like competing in the American Royal BBQ Contest every day. When a friend clued us in on a newcomer in North Kansas City, we just had to test it out.
A historic Independence, Missouri visit wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Harry S. Truman Library & Museum. Growing up in Kansas City, we were well aware of Truman’s ties to the area but had not really studied much about the man. Since the Truman Library had recently completed an overhaul, we felt it was
Our visit to Hendricks BBQ in Saint Charles, Missouri, was a tasty escape during our holiday season. Known for its mouthwatering smoked meats and welcoming atmosphere, this spot promised an experience that’s more than just a meal. With its relaxed vibe and comforting aromas, we felt like we stepped into a warm embrace on a
Hendricks BBQ in Saint Charles: A Festive Feast of Flavor Read More »
Nestled at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers, Fort Smith began as a frontier military post. Barely a decade after the Louisiana Purchase, the new lands were still being explored. With over 200 years of history under its belt, the city has a lot to offer visitors. We dropped in to explore the
100 years and 16 presidents ago, The Cozy Inn opened in Salina, Kansas. Bob Kinkel, the original owner, used his tiny space to whip up palm-sized bites of beef. He got the idea from White Castle, who had began operations one year earlier in Wichita. Churning out dozens of mini-burgers at a time, he would
Let’s time-travel back to 1957. The world was cast into the “Space Race” with the launch of Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite. In America, Jailhouse Rock was climbing the charts, while Elvis purchased Graceland. Frisbees first hit the market and The Music Man opened on Broadway. (You can read our article about the composer
We are going to let you in on a little secret. There is gold in the Smoky Hills. It’s not be nuggets of the shiny substance that has been the reason for mass migrations. The precious treasure we are talking about is found in the local attractions found in a variety of towns and cities.
Smoky Hill Museum – The Crossroads Of The Heartland Read More »
For us, there is a big difference between eating to sustain and dining for pleasure. During our visit to this historic Arkansas destination, we tried to sample as many restaurant choices as we could squeeze into our schedule. As we were eating our way through downtown Fort Smith, we discovered what the locals already know.
Who’s up for a little time traveling? A visit to Abilene, Kansas can take you back to the early 1900s just by touring the Seelye Mansion. This turn-of-the-century home has 25 rooms and more than a few fascinating features. One fact that surprised us was that the furnishings cost more than the home, which was
For decades, schoolchildren from around the metropolitan region made the annual field trip to the Kansas City Museum. I remember visiting during the time that it focused primarily on our hometown’s history. It also featured hundreds of taxidermized animals in lifelike settings. In 2008, the museum was closed for a complete renovation and repurposing. When
How many times have you faced the seemingly unsurmountable task of choosing what to have for dinner? It would be nice if they put a variety of cuisines in one space, so you could pick and choose your favorite dishes. Well someone was listening to our suggestions and created Parlor KC. This glorified grownup food
Our trip to Abilene, Kansas would not be complete without a visit to the site that honors one of the most famous Kansans. The Eisenhower Presidential Library and Boyhood Home is a top destination for travelers from all over the country and the world. They come to Abilene to pay homage and learn more about the
The Louisiana Purchase signaled many changes in the United States. The addition of 828,000 square miles of new territory nearly doubled the size of the young nation. Early explorers viewed the new lands as stark in comparison to the settled land to the east. It would be branded with the nickname “Great American Dessert” and
These days food trucks have seen a surge in popularity. This is partly due to the expansion of cuisines being offered by them. Long gone are the days that they merely featured burgers and dogs. Now you can find just about any specialty food being served up with flair. During our visit to Wisconsin Dells,
Art has been an expression of emotions for as long as humans have existed. While the basic design can be simple or complex, it is what we see beyond the obvious that touches our souls. More and more cities are seeing how urban art projects can help residents and visitors connect with the essence of
We feel that being a foodie moves you beyond the standard pleasure found in dining. For us, there is anticipation for the upcoming meals. There is an air of mystery that surrounds each new visit and the prospect of new flavor discovery. When we landed in downtown Fort Smith, Arkansas, we were already aware of
Real life is often more sensational than make believe. Being a fan of westerns, I was excited to finally visit Fort Smith, Arkansas. It was in this city that a real life legend held court during the Wild West days. While many are unaware of Judge Parker’s court, it left an indelible mark on the
Have you ever felt like you were standing on top of the world? After a day of exploring Arches National Park, we couldn’t imagine anything matching its wonder and beauty. The evening had found us relocating to our next city, Grand Junction, Colorado. Our plan was an early morning excursion into the Colorado National Monument,
Colorado National Monument – On Top Of The World Read More »
It seems to me that I’m always hungry when we arrive at a new destination. While this could be tied to the length of time spent in the car, often it is more about getting to know the culinary vibe of the city. We always hear about the importance of first impressions, but what about
Planning a long road trip requires finding plenty of balance. The required driving time has to be offset with some enjoyable stops. I have found that the longer the drive, the bigger the reward should be at the end. Since this road trip was somewhat of a circular route, I had strategically placed a couple
It seems that every destination holds at least one surprise for us. Our return visit to St. Joseph gave us a chance to not only update some previous articles but also add a new eatery. Since we love focusing on downtown areas, we headed to Seventh and Felix to see what we could find. The
The story of Fort Smith begins with the Louisiana Purchase. Before this, the lands along the Arkansas River were used by nomadic Native Indians. A military post, erected in 1817, signaled the beginning of the town, which sprung up along the eastern shores of the river. The fort, and subsequent city, were named after Thomas
3 History Lessons From Fort Smith Museum Of History Read More »
It feels a little repetitive to mention that we live in a city filled with amazing barbecue restaurants. While we may not have sandy beaches or snow-capped mountains, any given day can bring the smell of grilling meats wafting across the landscape. When we are looking for southern BBQ in Kansas City, we have a
Like many frequent travelers, we have a list of destinations that we hope to visit in our lifetimes. Every once in a while, we will discover one that has flown below our radar. This was the case for Fort Smith, Arkansas. The city’s slogan is “Where the New South meets the Old West”. It is
In only 19 months, the Pony Express made a lasting impact on American history. Just the mere mention of this unique enterprise stirs images of racing ponies carrying wiry cowboys across the changing landscape. Facing pitfalls and hazards, along the way, many of these young men would etch their names in the history books. We
Traversing our nation, one finds wonder in almost every destination. After a three-day visit with our son in the Seattle area, we were on the downhill slope of our Epic Road Trip. We still had plenty of sights to see, but it would be mixed with an abundance of road hours. Departing early in the
I have to admit that there’s a little kid in me that can come out at the most inopportune moments. To limit the silliness from becoming too rampant, I find it best to shower my inner child with periodic visits to kid-friendly attractions. Kansas City just happens to be home to quite a few of
National Museum of Toys And Miniatures – Releasing My Inner Child Read More »
What are some of your earliest memories of amusement parks? While researching a visit to Universal Studios Orlando, I discovered that the first modern amusement parks began along the east coast. We are all likely familiar with the name Coney Island and it was home to one of these fun fixtures way back in 1895.
Immersive Experience At Universal Studios Orlando Read More »
American history is filled with events large and small, but some created a reverberation felt throughout the country. While the Civil War had legally brought an end to slavery, it did not prohibit the inequality of segregation. Black people were told they were free, but real life didn’t represent this change. Jim Crow laws had
Leveling The Field – Brown Vs Board Of Education Read More »
As I sit writing this article, my mind is wandering back to our table at HomeGrown Kansas City, located at 338 W. 63rd St. in KCMO. This Wichita-based restaurant broke ground in our hometown and has seen amazing success. It may just be their delectable pop tartlets, which are great paired with a cup of
When we set about planning our travels for 2021, it was determined that we needed to add a visit to the Northwest Coast. This is the region where our youngest son, Derek, had relocated and we had never seen this part of the country. Those two points would become the basis for our Epic Road
While the interstate highways work well for transporting people in the quickest fashion, they leave a lot to be desired for sight-seeing. For decades, we have made the journey to Minnesota to visit Crystal’s relatives. Most of the time, we just want a quick route, but when time allows we venture off the beaten path.
During our travels, we like to figure out what each city has for an overarching theme. Bentonville, Arkansas has focused on creating an urban area filled with interactive opportunities. No matter your activity level, there is plenty to occupy your time during a visit. We were pleased to discover food and fun designed to appeal
Interactive Opportunities Abound In Bentonville, Arkansas Read More »
When people mention dining in Kansas City, many will think of barbecue. While it is certainly a popular subject in our hometown, it is far from the only cuisine to be found here. In fact, there are tons of great eats to be found tucked away all over town. Kansas City, Kansas is our neck
Our Epic Road Trip was off to an amazing start. We were winding down Day 1, and we had already discovered three fun stops. Heading west out of Mitchell, we made our way across the flat prairie. Our first leg included 500 miles of beautiful scenery, as we traversed across Iowa and into South Dakota.
Are there places that you’ve been meaning to visit for years? We faced that same situation right in our backyard. The Shawnee Indian Mission has been a destination we have discussed visiting for quite some time. It seems like some other stop would always push this place to the back burner. We finally said “enough
Whenever we visit a new destination, we keep our eyes open for a theme. Some cities are all about history, while others can focus on family fun. As we made our way through Mason City, we quickly realized this Iowa city is overflowing with artistic subjects. While it has plenty of history to discover, it
It goes without saying that a visit to Memphis has to include some time walking on Beale Street. Starting at the Mississippi River, the route travels almost 2 miles into the city. The iconic portion that many people picture is actually only about 5 blocks long. Packed with entertainment, shopping, and dining establishments, Beale Street
As I sit here writing this article, the winter snow is falling in Kansas City. Our Epic Road Trip is still fresh in our minds, even though it has been a dozen weeks since it wrapped up. Looking out at the cold, it is easy to imagine the times that ice sheets once spread across
Southern cooking is all about comfort, so you know we love it. While some would consider Bentonville, Arkansas to be the northern edge of the south, we found it gives them a unique position in the culinary world. This vibrant city has a ton of interesting dining options that capture the flavors of the region.
When you travel to the home base of Walmart, you can expect big things. The Walton family has been diligent in giving back to the community and Bentonville has certainly prospered from this relationship. A prime example of this is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Creating a world-class art museum is an expensive
Embracing Nature – Crystal Bridges Museum Of American Art Read More »
Traveling can be extremely exciting, but being too long on the road can become uncomfortable. Even having all of the luxuries, won’t remove the desire for the comforts of home. Can you imagine embarking on a perilous two-year-long trip across unchartered lands? That is precisely what Meriwether Lewis and William Clark faced during their famous
Epic Road Trip – Lewis And Clark Interpretive Center Read More »
Breakfast meals are some of the hardest to blog about on a consistent pace. While we all love a delectable start to our day, quite often the meals are cookie-cutter style and resemble many others we have enjoyed. It takes something out of the ordinary to help get the creative juices flowing for an article.
Our visit to Fort Osage whisked us back over 200 years to a time when America was much smaller than it is today. Our nation’s freedom had been won in the American Revolution, and we were in the midst of a great expansion. The Louisiana Purchase had allowed the fledgling nation to increase its land
A visit to the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop takes guests back over 150 years, to a time when the territory was just opening for business. With so much history at this site, we were scratching our heads wondering why we had never visited. Knowing that nothing can be done to change the past, we pushed ahead
It would be a safe bet that nearly everyone is aware of Walmart. For years, they have dominated the chain store landscape by implementing some unique policies. It’s hard to believe it, but the Arkansas-based company will celebrate 50 years in 2022. This mega-chain came from a rather humble beginning way back in 1962. It
As Autumn descends on the Midwest, people will find an abundance of harvest-themed festivals. Welcoming Fall brings a change in the air, that signals the shortening of daylight hours. We find ourselves trying to savor every moment. Scanning the Kansas City calendar of events, we noticed the annual Fall Festival at Missouri Town 1855. Since
Growing up, I spent a number of summers staying in the country with my grandparents. That means I have enjoyed plenty of delectable homecooked meals. These days, we find ourselves frequenting more restaurants, which means fewer of those family-style dinners. During our visit to Bentonville, we found ourselves dining at one of the downtown hotels.
Exploring a new destination can really work up an appetite. Okay, let’s be honest about it. Sometimes there are just so many great foodie spots that we have to find a way to squeeze in a few. That was definitely the case during our downtown excursion in Mobile, Alabama. Even though we weren’t really starving,
Bentonville has embarked on a plan to link its downtown with other entertainment districts around town. As we explored more of the city, we found ourselves becoming jealous of how successful they have become at integrating culture and community. A short distance from downtown, we discovered the 8th Street Market district. Designed as a community-focused
Walks in the woods help us maintain our bond with Mother Nature. Since the majority of our travels focus on the downtown districts, we relish the opportunity for a nature break. Bentonville has worked hard to incorporate nature and city into a mish-mash that blends the line. Striving to become the “Mountain Biking Capital of
Having a meal at an airport is not usually high on people’s list of entertaining dining. When the suggestion came from our friends at Visit Bentonville, we just knew there was more to this story. Thaden Field is a local airport that serves private traffic. Unlike most places of this type, they also feature an
Wandering through the vast displays of beautiful tulips, we found ourselves immersed in the Dutch heritage of Pella, Iowa. Little would we imagine that this humble Midwestern city has a connection with the rowdy, wild west. Yet, as we made our way through the Pella Historical Village, we happened upon a house that at one
Seeing a new destination through the eyes of others will reveal stories that are waiting to be discovered. We find that digging into the history will give us a chance to learn how communities are preserving traditions. Pella, Iowa is steeped in Dutch culture that can sometimes seem strange to Midwesterners, but at the same
Conflict along the Missouri state line had been occurring throughout the second half of the 1850s. Far away in the East, the political battles were raging. After John Brown’s unsuccessful raid on Harper’s Ferry, some believed that signaled the end to the threat from the west. Little would anyone expect that the first significant land
Long ago, we discovered that the downtown is the center of a community. The very pulse of the city can be felt in this area. The towns that embrace this idea are the ones where you will find a vibrant and thriving society. Our visit to Oskaloosa, Iowa only allowed for one day downtown, but
On any given day you are likely to smell the aroma of barbecue in Kansas City. The very fabric of the community is saturated with the intoxicating scent. Breaking the barrier to become a successful BBQ restaurant in this town is no easy feat. Chef J has learned this lesson as the new kid in
Traveling through the open lands in the Midwest, it is easy to imagine what the pioneers faced during westward expansion. Back in 1854, the first white settler arrived in the soon-to-be-formed Nebraska Territory. He carved out space for himself along the banks of the Missouri River and constructed the area’s first log cabin. The promise
Tooling along the interstate, you will pass exit after exit for small towns all across America. How often do you wonder what these places have in store for visitors? Like many others, for years we would cruise by without so much as acknowledging their presence. In recent years we have learned that each of these
Can you imagine life in the early 1800s? With the need to furnish a vast array of your everyday goods, a homestead would need a sizeable footprint. When Waltus Watkins (say that three times fast) brought his bride to live in Liberty, Missouri, he set himself on a path that would change their lives. Watkins,
Living in Kansas City means that we are in day-trip distance from a myriad of interesting destinations. When we are looking for another big city experience, one of our favorite haunts is Omaha, Nebraska. Being a mere three hours away makes this a good option for about eight hours of exploring. Of course, with a
We are so hopeful that 2021 will see a return of travel that we decided to start our season with some day trips. It’s fun planning and executing a one-day run that lands us in new territory. Kansas City is the perfect home base for a multitude of day trip options. An hour north of
When you step into history, it can lead to just as many questions as it does answers. During a recent discussion, we pondered why people are so fascinated with the notorious desperados who grab the headlines. From gangsters to bandits, there is something fascinating about their stories. A trip to the outskirts of Kearney, Missouri
For decades, people around the globe have struggled with the ‘Spring Forward’ that occurs each year. While we understand the reasoning behind this daylight saving practice, it doesn’t make the frustration of losing an hour anymore pleasant. Just as we begin to see the dawn appear at a decent hour, we are plunged back into
It’s easy to find the statistics for just about any city or town, but they will not tell the whole story. To get a true taste of any destination requires experiencing it firsthand. Over the years, we have discovered a formula that helps us make the most of our time. This has been used for
Kansas City is filled with so many entertainment options that we struggle trying to cover them all. When our daughter suggested a brunch outing, I decided to look for something out of the ordinary. Since we are all lovers of art, a visit to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art was a perfect fit. This
Losing Their Voice – Kemper Museum Of Contemporary Art Read More »
The city of Atchison, Kansas has a long history of rising to the challenge. Squatting along the banks of the Missouri River, the town was founded just a decade before the start of the Civil War. This Midwestern city of around 11,000 has seen its own struggles. Their delay in constructing a bridge to span
On a high bluff overlooking the Missouri River, Amelia Earhart came into the world. While the small town she grew up in may seem quiet, the urge for adventure stirred deep in her heart. The two-story cottage stands as a reminder of the amazing flying feats performed by this aviation pioneer. The world knows her
It saddens us when we hear about a local business having to shutter its doors. Unfortunately, this was an all too common occurrence in 2020. On a positive note, there were many new enterprises willing to take a risk during those uncertain times. One that evidently felt it best to let 2020 pass by is
Few highways have captured the American spirit like Route 66. This nostalgic thoroughfare has been dubbed “The Mother Road” and “Main Street of America”. With 2,448 miles of open road, it led travelers from Chicago to Los Angeles. Along the way, drivers would find iconic stops to satisfy just about every need. This famous path
It’s hard to believe we had never taken a real train trip. The stories that friends have told, about experiencing the views along the rolling tracks, have intrigued us. It is just that we have always fallen back on the reasoning that we would need our car for convenience. The day finally came when we
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Breaking the BBQ barrier in Kansas City isn’t easy. On any given day, the smoky aroma of barbecue permeates the very fabric of the city. It isn’t reserved just for game days or the Fourth of July. Barbecue is the lifeblood of the city. The idea of launching a new restaurant in this atmosphere can
Living in the landlocked Midwest used to mean that good seafood meals were few and far between. These days, the ability to move fresh supplies worldwide has made fantastic dishes available almost anywhere. On a beautiful Fall Saturday, we traveled to Hermann, Missouri to check out their annual Oktoberfest. The lure of music, wine, and
For decades, the McLain family served the locals in and around the Waldo area. Three generations of the family-operated this local bakery, delivering pastries, bread, and cakes to eager customers. There would often be long lines waiting for their chance to snatch up some of the goodies. When the McLain family sold the business in
For many years, we have enjoyed visits to the Ozark Mountains. This ancient mountain range offers amazing scenery, abundant wildlife, and many hidden wonders. During a trip to Top of the Rock, we learned about another scenic site that we wanted to see firsthand. A little research uncovered 10,000 acres of exploring that offers visitors
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park – 10,000 Acres Of Exploring Read More »
Crossing through western Kansas, we can imagine herds of buffalo charging across the plains. Large numbers were roaming the territory when white settlers first arrived. The end of the Civil War brought expanded interest and development to Kansas. The “Border War” was fought on the eastern edge of the state, and seemed like a distant
For many, us included, you cannot get the real flavor of a destination without including visits to some of the local restaurants. Hannibal, Missouri has a distinct connection with the “Mighty Mississippi”, so we certainly wanted to experience the river town tastes that can be found there. Obviously, we would want some variety and knew
The more we explore the Midwest, the more we discover that it is filled with surprises. For instance, how often do you hear people say that Kansas is flat and devoid of any significant landscape features? To many, you must travel to the coast or the Rockies to find amazing sights. Reality shows that this
The Kansas Badlands – Little Jerusalem State Park Read More »
Hannibal, Missouri is known far and wide for its connection to Samuel Clemens. Many of you know him best by his pen name of Mark Twain. His stories reflect the life and struggles of growing up in a river town in the mid-1800s. While many of his tales are based on moments and memories from
Spending time with our grandkids has opened up opportunities to visit some fun destinations. Being able to share our love for zoos with them helps us build a stronger bond while learning more about the world we live in. A recent excursion had us going on safari to the Topeka Zoo for a morning filled
The mere mention of the town of Hannibal, Missouri evokes images of Mark Twain. It seems his iconic identity goes hand-in-hand with this river town. Most of us have grown up on the literary works of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, who penned the books we read in school. The characters he created kept us entertained with
Triumph Over Oppression – Huck Finn Freedom Center Read More »
How many of us remember that special friend we had when we were growing up? Wouldn’t it be great to have the opportunity to meet back up and join forces later in life? This is exactly what happened to a pair of kids who grew up in the middle of the Heartland. After going their
The year is 1921 and the world is coming out of World War 1. America was coming out of these troubled times with a renewed vigor. With the prospects of the world looking up, people began looking for new ways to expand their horizons. The war had shown people how aviation was the transportation avenue
Take To The Skies – Nicholas Beazley Aviation Museum Read More »
It goes without saying that we love learning about animals. Our world is filled with fascinating creatures that leave us in awe and remind us that we are just one piece of a massive ecological puzzle. Whether it’s unusual species or just an unbelievable specimen, there is a ton of education that comes with each
Picture a vast inland sea teeming with an abundance of prehistoric creatures. Along the edge of the water laid a vast swamp filled with an assortment of dinosaurs. Overhead, Pteranodons floated on the warm air currents, as they scanned the horizon for an easy meal. This is the scene that would have played out in
When people in the Midwest refer to “Bloody Kansas” or the “Border War”, it usually elicits visions of localized skirmishes. A closer look will reveal that this newly formed territory was the “Birthplace of the Civil War”. While many history books focus on the battles in the east, it was the introduction of Kansas Territory,
It was an unexpectedly cold and wet day in the middle of Kansas. We arrived at Taco Shop for an early lunch with our new friend Janet Kuhn. Our visit to Hays was winding down to the last few hours, so this would be our last get together. It was fitting that our last meal
The year is 1865 and the Civil War has just ended. While westward expansion had significantly slowed during the war, it did not take long for it to resume. As settlers pushed for new territories to be opened, it would spark a resurgence of the American Indian War. Out on the westerns front, in Kansas,
It is no surprise that the pieces and parts of The Wizard of Oz have saturated our daily lives. Based on the children’s novel, written by L. Frank Baum, it has been declared as “America’s greatest and best-loved homegrown fairytale”. How many times have each of us uttered one of the familiar phrases that are
We love finding cities that have recaptured the magic of their downtown corridor. For decades this nation has seen the urban flight, which has left the inner cores of our cities empty. With all of the existing infrastructure still in place, these areas are ripe for redevelopment, like what we found in Hays, Kansas. During
It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. We know this to be true, as it is fuel for a successful day of exploring. Those quiet moments spent planning our upcoming adventures are some of our favorites. Besides, having the opportunity to sample a variety of restaurants gives
When we visit a new destination, one of our goals is to learn about its unique past. Every city and town has its own stories to tell, it just requires finding the right storyteller. To learn about the early days of hays, we tapped into the knowledge of Katie Annett, from the Ellis County Historical
The Early Days Of Hays – Ellis County Historical Museum Read More »
Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, especially when traveling. It sets the tone for the entire day and provides the start needed to fuel a morning of exploration. While many newer restaurants are focusing on Instagram worthy plates, there is still much to be said for good old-fashioned breakfasts. On
Family Friendly Feasting – Pheasant Run Pancake House Read More »
Like many of you, we enjoy a visit to our local city market. In fact, the historic City Market in Kansas City has been a staple of the downtown since 1857. The vibrant neighborhood that surrounds the market is filled with unique shops and restaurants. Going in search of a fun evening out, we planned
It may be hard to believe, but millions of years ago Kansas was part of a huge inland sea. Traveling across the western half of the state, it is not an ocean that comes to mind. It takes excursions off of the interstate to expose the true history of the region. We made a visit
Do you ever wonder what it was like to live the prairie life in 1890? We dropped by the Stuhr Museum to get a firsthand look at this huge living history site. Located in Grand Island, this Nebraska museum whisks visitors back to a simpler time. This extensive complex is made up of a series
You have probably heard people refer to Kansas as “flat as a pancake”. To many along the coasts, our fly-over state is bereft of any tourism value. Fortunately, we know better. Scattered across our home state is a slew of unique oddities and interesting stories. The drive along I-70 opens up a lot of possibilities
The Chalk Pyramids – Monument Rocks National Landmark Read More »
The end of a long drive should have some kind of reward. After hot-tailing it from Kansas City to Grand Island, Nebraska, we were famished. Before we could even think about touring the local sights, we needed something to get us revved up. Right as we were rolling into town we spotted Thunder Road Grill.
If you Google Marysville, Kansas you will find that it is listed as a city in Marshall County with about 3300 residents. While these statistics seem commonplace, they do little to tell the city’s story. To truly understand the dynamics of this historic town you have to experience it firsthand. Our short jaunt from Kansas
Our style of travel can certainly make a body weary. Since many of our trips are designed to gather as much research as possible, we can find ourselves worn out by the end of each day. Fortunately, there is always a place nearby to lay our heads. In Marysville, Kansas we had planned an action-packed
Feeling At Home In Marysville – Trailhead Suites Read More »
Smoke hung heavy around the Oliver Anderson home. Bullet holes pockmarked the brick walls of the house. This early battle of the Civil War had been sparked by the seizure of money by Federal troops. Now they found themselves outnumbered and in short supply of a most important resource. The battle was entering its third
Hemp Bales And Bluffs – Battle Of Lexington, Missouri Read More »
With a trail of dust in their wake, Pony Express riders sped across the prairie on their journey toward California. After leaving St. Joseph, they would find a fresh horse waiting for them about every ten miles. A quick stop allowed them to trade mounts and in a flash, they were back on the route.
To be successful in the restaurant business requires a high level of commitment. It helps when you have your priorities clearly determined. Franco Cupini is a man who is dedicated to friends, family, and food. His love for the restaurant business shines through when you see him working at his Westport eatery, Cupini’s. Franco was
Imagine life 100 years after the United States had won its independence. The year is 1876 and things are changing rapidly in America. Alexander Graham Bell has just invented the telephone. Heinz Ketchup and Budweiser beer make their debut. Here in Kansas, Wyatt Earp is hired to work in Dodge City. The Pony Express had
Koester House Museum – Capturing A Moment In Time Read More »
What draws you to a new restaurant? Over the past three years we have written articles for around 50 restaurants in the Kansas City metro. When you add in all of the other cities that number jumps to nearly 200 articles. Prior to starting this website, I hosted a restaurant blog that featured many more.
One of our favorite parts of exploring new destinations is sampling the local cuisine options. When we roll into a new city, we like to keep our eyes open to dining choices that are loved by the locals. Marysville, Kansas has plenty of those, but with just over 24 hours to explore, we realized we
Exploring new destinations is always an eye-opening experience. One of our first stops is usually the local history museum. This helps us learn the background stories that are found in every community. That is how we landed at the Marshall County Museum in Marysville, Kansas. Pulling up in front of the 1891 courthouse had our
Looking for an escape from the city without having to leave the city? Some of our friends have been giving us suggestions on places to visit. When a few told us details about the Parkville Nature Sanctuary, it seemed like the perfect place to take a walk on the wild side. These days long distance
Parkville Nature Sanctuary – A Walk On The Wild Side Read More »
Have you ever seen a black squirrel? When we started planning our visit to Marysville, we discovered that this Kansas town has an unexpected mascot. It seems that sometime in the past, black squirrels were introduced to this environment. Now they have proliferated throughout the community and have achieved somewhat of celebrity status. While our
It seems that people are coming up with new ways to re-purpose familiar items all of the time. Finding alternative uses for shipping containers seemed to be a logical next step. A visit to North Kansas City, Missouri showed us how one group of ingenious people had built a space that combines function and frugality
How many times have you overlooked a small town, because you didn’t think it had much to see? If we are being honest, this happens too often, because we have been programmed to believe this. Creating our travel blog has opened our eyes and minds to the wonderful collection of artifacts found in villages and
Boonville, Missouri rests along the Missouri River, just about 100 miles east of Kansas City. For thousands of years, Native Indians were the sole inhabitants of the region. It was not until the 1600s that the first European explorers would travel to the heart of the continent. A pair of Daniel Boone’s sons would uncover
River, Rails, and Trails Museum – Travel Around Boonville Read More »
Kansas City can be described in many ways, but we like to think of it as the “Melting Pot of the Midwest”. Within the boundaries of the metro, you can find nearly every ethnicity. This provides an amazing array of cultures, and they each bring their unique cuisine to the table. Diners can choose from
It is vital that we examine our history, to let us not forget the lessons that we wish not to repeat. During our visit to Arrow Rock, we had a chance to examine a more sinister side of Missouri history. Growing up in Kansas City, we were taught about the Border War between Kansas and
Let Us Not Forget – African-American Experience Museum Read More »
Travel is an opportunity to escape the city we live in and to see new destinations with fresh eyes. 2020 has certainly presented an array of challenges to traveling, but not complete barriers. We are learning ways to enjoy the adventures we have grown to love while keeping ourselves and others safe. This is important
It appears that the key phrase for 2020 will be “social distancing”. While it certainly poses some new hurdles for travel bloggers, it also challenges us to find some new ways to explore our world. This travel season will be filled with some places that allow us to get back to nature. On a recent
It has been said that history tends to repeat itself. During a visit to Arrow Rock, Missouri, we stumbled upon a small museum dedicated to the life of Dr. John Sappington. His name was unfamiliar to us, but as we explored the space, we soon realized the important role he played in history. This little
Traveling the interstate between Kansas City and St. Louis takes you through Boone’s Lick Country. If you are like us, you were completely unaware of this. On a sunny Saturday, we decided to make a day trip to Arrow Rock, Missouri to learn more about this area with an unusual name. While this small village
Life In The Boone’s Lick – Arrow Rock Visitors Center Read More »
Living in the landlocked Midwest has its pros and cons. While one of the biggest pluses is the amazing people in every city and town, there are things we miss at times. Traveling around North America has allowed us to sample a variety of cuisines and flavors from all corners of the continent. The tastes
The sun shone brightly, casting its warmth on the cool May morning. Early shoppers arrived in downtown Kansas City to bring some normalcy back into their lives. With the Stay At Home orders being slowly rescinded, some of the public are venturing out to places that seem strangely familiar. We visited City Market to see
Have you ever made an assumption about a business based on partial information? This has actually happened to us a few times. It often occurs because we have failed to thoroughly research. Let’s look at an example of such an oversight. We first noticed Lulu’s Noodles during our day trips to downtown Lawrence, Kansas. During
Living in the landlocked Midwest can limit our access to fresh seafood. Few places have the dedication to do the legwork required to keep this type of pipeline running. Fortunately, we have a delectable option right in our hometown. Jarocho Authentic Mexican Seafood is bringing the sea to KC. We have been advised of the
Bringing The Sea to KC – Jarocho Authentic Mexican Seafood Read More »
We all have our home town favorites that seem to draw us back over and over. For some, it may be the atmosphere or the feeling of nostalgia. One thing that is usually required is the ability to deliver a consistent meal that we can count on time after time. Living in a larger metropolitan
There is a lot of uncertainty floating around Kansas City right now. We find ourselves in the middle of the Covid-19 shutdown. Businesses are learning how to adapt to this new paradigm. While many have reduced hours and even scaled back their menus, others have temporarily closed. That is the case for Green Room Burgers
Green Room Burgers & Beers – The Sun Will Shine Again Read More »
As I sit and write this article, we are currently under self-imposed isolation called “social distancing”. While the subject is near and dear to everyone at this stage, I have to wonder what readers will think when they return to this particular article in two or three years. How will our daily interactions change, once
Sunshine and Social Distancing – Ha Ha Tonka State Park Read More »
Living in Kansas City, Kansas means that we are blessed to have the best Mexican cuisine options in the Midwest. Our hometown is known far and wide for being the home to numerous taquerias (taco stores), carnicerias (meat stores), and cantinas (bar & grills). When you add in the panaderias (bakeries), you expand the list
Visiting Quebec City offers some unique opportunities not found anywhere else in North America. Canada’s oldest city is a tale of two cities, where the old meets the new. Much of our visit was spent in Old Quebec City, which had its earliest beginnings in 1608. Split into Upper Town and Lower Town, each of
Living in a city filled with amazing food and drink destinations means that the options always outweigh the opportunities. With the winter weather releasing its grip on Kansas City, it’s time for us to spend more time exploring. Over the colder months, we make note of places we pass and add them to our “future
For centuries people dreamed of taking flight. Watching the birds soaring through the air seemed to offer the freedom to explore life from a new perspective. While the invention of hot air balloons and gliders allowed glimpses into this new world, it was powered flight that would forever change the way that humans travel. During
6 Reasons To Visit The Stafford Air & Space Museum Read More »
When we heard that Snooze A.M. Eatery was planning a Kansas city location, it brought a smile to our faces. We enjoy a standard breakfast as much as the next couple, but the chance to start your morning with a twist makes it extra special. This funky and friendly Denver-based chain has a reputation for
Start Your Morning With A Twist – Snooze A.M. Eatery Read More »
What happens when you gather six chefs all under one roof? You end up with an upscale food court, like the one at Strang Hall, in downtown Overland Park. The idea for this chef collective came from a desire to add a new twist to the dining scene. This collection of restaurants allows the locals
Exploring a new city takes on a new perspective once the sun sets. The older the destination, the more spirits that roam the city streets filling the darkness with their presence. Their stories can be heard in the creaking staircases and banging doors. While we had learned loads of history, at attractions like Immersion Quebec,
Variety keeps life from becoming boring. You can imagine what it would be like if every museum was exactly the same. Each would hold the same static displays and spout the same factoids. Fortunately, this isn’t the case. Each history museum has its own approach to telling stories from the past. We also have a
Seeing The Details – Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Read More »
We have to believe that we are not much different than most of our readers. Like others, we enjoy a good meal, and trying new restaurants is usually a fun experience. During the winter, we find ourselves having brunch more often. A good example was a stop in Room 39, located at 1719 W. 39th
Do you seek out local dishes when you travel? We have found it interesting to sample the local cuisine, and it has introduced us to some new dishes. Quebec City is one of the oldest European settlements in North America and home to the earliest French settlement in the New World. During our stay, we
Baseball is often referred to as “America’s Favorite Pastime”. The crack of the bat, roar of the crowd, and feeling of camaraderie that come with a baseball game are hard to match. When we were offered an opportunity to attend a game during our visit to Amarillo, there was no way we were going to
What do you get when you cross southern American BBQ with traditional Quebec cuisine? At Faite á l’os (French for “Made to the bone”) we found it is some of the most well-executed barbecue we have ever experienced. When I spoke to people of our plans to visit a barbecue joint in Quebec City, most
High in the Panhandle-Plains of Texas, people carve out a life from the rugged landscape. Driving across this flat terrain reminded us of traveling across the western half of our home state of Kansas. This perspective changed when we arrived at Palo Duro Canyon. Laid out before us we saw only glimpses of the 120-mile
Palo Duro Canyon – Millions Of Years In The Making Read More »
To think that we have lived within a short three-hour drive of Missouri’s capital, yet it has taken us so long to visit. When we realized this oversight, we reached out to Visit Jefferson City, to arrange a day of exploration. Wanting to get a better understanding of the history of the city, from past
How often do you find yourself wondering why you haven’t frequented a place more often? It seems that we eat at the Jerusalem Cafe food truck every time we are shopping in the West Bottoms, but rarely visit their brick and mortar in Westport. Clearly it was time to check out their new home at
Traveling to a new destination can be filled with wonder, as well as some mystery. Determining your home away from home is one of the biggest decisions to be made. While price can certainly be one factor in the selection process, for us it’s mostly about location, location, location! Our first Canadian trip needed to
For almost seven decades, Wonderland Park has been bringing fun to the Panhandle. In the early ’50s, Paul and Alethea Roads traveled to Amarillo to look over some potential property where they might develop an amusement park. While their first impression was less than impressive, a second viewing opened their eyes to the potential. That
Tours are a good way to get some background information at new destinations. While we will usually rely on our exploration, this doesn’t mean we are against guided excursions. Some places are limited to this type of visit, and we happily join in the group fun. This was the case when we stopped at the
Walking The Block At The Missouri State Penitentiary Read More »
Over the course of our travels, we have learned the truth in the saying “Never judge a book by its cover”. This also stands true for many of the restaurants we have found. Sometimes the little hole-in-the-walls offer up some of the best eats around. It is a common practice for us to set our
When we really think about it, Oklahoma City and Kansas City have a lot in common. Both are located in the heart of the country and filled with welcoming residents. They are located on the I-35 corridor, which bisects our nation. They are both transportation hubs and share a history associated with the cattle industry.
Whenever we visit a state capital, we try to include a stop at the state museum, as well. While each city and town will usually show a local perspective, these state-sponsored destinations have an overarching view. The unusual thing about the Missouri State Museum is that it resides inside of the capitol building. Since we
By now, we are sure that you all know we love barbecue. Being from the Midwest, we have sauce coursing through our veins. Traveling across the continent has given us opportunities to sample this smoky cuisine in some unexpected locations. A visit to Oklahoma City would not be considered an unusual destination for ‘Cue. When
Everyone knows that the Grand Canyon is the largest in the United States, but you do you where the second largest is at? You can imagine our surprise, when we discovered that it lies just south of Amarillo, Texas. Yes, the panhandle plains are home to Palo Duro Canyon, which is HUGE! While our visit
Exploring Jefferson City would never be complete without sampling a couple of downtown restaurants. While they have a variety of cuisines to select from, sampling the BBQ scene is often a priority for us. Fortunately, we found an option sitting within easy walking distance from the capital building. After a day of exploring, we were
The idea of containing all of the history of a state in one location would be futile. Each one would be overflowing with a wealth of artifacts and information, that just couldn’t be gathered in one place. Of course, many of the state museums do a fantastic job at detailing a wide variety of the
Kansas City has become a destination for some of the best Mexican cuisine north of the border. All across the metro, diners will find an array of options, with dishes that originate from the various states in Mexico. Much like dining across the United States, each Mexican district has its own flavors to impart. We
Hacienda To The Heartland – Mi Ranchito Cocina & Cantina Read More »
Let’s face it, us Kansas Citians have a thing for barbecue. There may be other cities that claim the crown for this delectable cuisine, but there is a reason that the World Series of BBQ is held in our hometown. For those needing more proof, just drive by Arrowhead Stadium before a Chiefs game, and
Kansas City has slowly, but surely become a haven for Mexican cuisine. From the small Mom & Pop street taco shops of KCK to the larger chain restaurants scattered throughout the metro. It seems that finding a taco vendor is just about as easy as locating a barbecue. When Guy Fieri decided to jump into
Blurring The Line – Guy Fieri’s Dive & Taco Joint Read More »
Don’t you like it when you find a hometown connection when visiting a new destination? This is exactly what happened to us, during our stay in Amarillo, Texas, but we will talk about that in a minute. Part of our focus, on this trip, was finding stops that are perfect for Route 66 travelers. (Here’s
To this day, we are amazed at the number of hidden gems that we find spread around the Kansas City metro. There are so many alcoves and pockets dotting the landscape. Thank goodness for Google Maps, since finding places in the pre-computer age was much more difficult. Of course, there are paths that many of
There were certain attractions that were “must-sees” during our visit to Dubuque, Iowa. Being Iowa’s first city, it is no surprise that there is a river nearby. Of course, this isn’t just any river. Visiting the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium promised to be an adventure on a grand scale. After all, it’s the
Nature’s Highways – National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium Read More »
When we planned our visit to Amarillo, there was an unusual stop that we wanted to catch, which lies north of the city. The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is the only park in Texas dedicated to preserving the quarries of the native peoples. The admission to the park is FREE and includes the beautiful
Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument – Digging The Past Read More »
It never ceases to amaze us, that one specific dish can have so many variations. A prime example of this is pizza. We are sure that images of various versions of this Italian delicacy are floating through your mind. Not only are there a myriad of ingredient combinations, but these days there is an untold
Saint Louis Style Pizza In Kansas City – Leo’s Pizza Read More »
Too many travelers find Kansas to be just another “fly-over” state. To us, that term also refers to those that just cruise along I-70 on their way to some other place. What many of them do not realize is that by getting off of the interstate, they have an opportunity to enjoy a truly cultural
Calling Kansas Explorers – Check Out Little Sweden USA Read More »
For many of us married folk, dinner and a show is the makings of a great date night. Even when we are on a blogging excursion, we try to make sure our activities are good options for other couples or families. When we planned out our Lindsborg visit, they surprised us with the addition of
A visit to City Market, in downtown Kansas City, offers a chance to hang with the locals. It is also the place to find locally produced fruits and vegetables, as well as other cooking ingredients. With all of this freshness so close, it’s no wonder that the restaurants in the neighborhood are so popular. While
To this day, we are still amazed at how many fun stories we find in each new destination. A good example of this is Ol Stuga, in Lindsborg, Kansas. From the outside, it looks like just another bar and grill type place. Even the name, which is Swedish for Ale House, suggests that it is
One of the best things about visiting a new destination is the chance to immerse yourself in the history of the community. Lindsborg, Kansas has an interesting history tied to the Swedish immigrants who arrived here in the spring of 1869. Even today, around thirty percent of the local population can tie their lineage back
Perhaps you have seen the little red horses and wondered where they come from. Many years ago, we traveled to Lindsborg, Kansas with our children. During this visit, we stopped at Hemslöjd to check out these fun looking figures. Fast forward to the present, and we once again found ourselves in this quaint Swedish city.
Recently, we had a chance to experience the “Taste of Central” festival in downtown Kansas City, Kansas. This event offered participants an opportunity to sample dishes from a variety of restaurants that they may overlook on a regular basis. We have to admit that we are just as guilty as others of forgetting to showcase
We enjoy finding businesses that have re-purposed buildings but still retained a tie with the past. In Lindsborg, Kansas, we had an opportunity to enjoy a breakfast stop at Blacksmith Coffee. This homey city, referred to as “Little Sweden”, was founded in 1869. In the early days, it was the task of blacksmiths to keep
The beginning of Fall is sometimes a moving target, in Kansas City. While the accurate astronomical date for 2019 is September 23rd, the meteorological comes on September 1st. For many parents around the metro, it starts once the kids go back to school. For us, we consider the unofficial beginning to take place when the
Sometimes last minute plans can uncover some interesting destinations. Recently, we were leaving church on a Saturday evening, and decided to find some place nearby for dinner. Since we were in Mission, Kansas, there were plenty of options available. Neither of us wanted to commit to a particular cuisine, so I made the decision to
Getting Our Greek On At Kinzi Mediterranean Restaurant Read More »
It feels like there is never enough time to do all the things we enjoy. For years, we have made quick trips to Lawrence, Kansas for a variety of reasons. Our daughter worked at the university for four years, which provided us with lots of exploring in this college city. These days, we make the
The Burger Stand at The Casbah – Delicious Lawrence Eats Read More »
One of the benefits of visiting state capital cities is the opportunity to tour the state museums. Most every city and town will have a historical stop that showcases the local history. It is the state museum that will fill out the details on the entire region. In Springfield, we discovered the Illinois State Museum
Illinois State Museum – Piecing Together The Past Read More »
A visit to Springfield, Illinois holds something for just about everyone in your travel crew. If you are a fan of road trips, then retracing the Mother Road (Route 66) will lead you straight through the heart of this Midwest city. Along the route, there are a variety of unique stops, like Cozy Dog Drive
Wherever we travel, Crystal and I will usually be on the lookout for ice cream. We are fortunate that both of us can agree on this creamy treat as a preferred dessert option. When we planned our latest Chicago visit, it was agreed to make our base camp on the outskirts of the metro. While
We hear a lot of people say that you can judge a restaurant by the length of time it has been in business. While this may not always be the case, there is certainly something to be said for longevity. During the planning of our visit to Kenosha, Wisconsin, we noticed a landmark eatery that
Over the years we have visited loads of various museums. They come in all sizes and focus on a host of topics. Some of our favorite are the one-off type that feature some unique subject. A newcomer to the Kansas City scene is the Museum of Illusions KC, located in Union Station. We dropped by
Museum Of Illusions KC – The Art Of Forced Perspective Read More »
Traveling can often make us work up an appetite. This is a good thing since we love showing you unique locally-owned spots to dine. Our trip from Chicago to Kenosha, Wisconsin took a little longer than we expected. By the time we arrived for our lunch, we were famished. That was okay because the dining
First Taste Of Kenosha – Boat House Pub & Eatery Read More »
These days it seems that we are constantly seeing specials for Taco Tuesday events. While it’s nice to find a deal on one of our favorite menu items, we think that this delectable cuisine shouldn’t be limited to one day per week. We would like to propose Taco Anyday and KC Taco Company is a
Being from the Central Midwest, we don’t often see bodies of water as large as Lake Michigan. Our visit to Kenosha, Wisconsin landed us squarely on the coast of this Great Lake. The sight of lighthouses was a signal that we weren’t in Kansas anymore. Getting the chance to visit the Southport Light Station Museum,
With so much of the country left to explore, sometimes we struggle finding time to spend in our own backyard. We made a renewed commitment to take a deeper dive into Kansas City culture this year. Zoological parks are one of our favorite diversions, wherever we travel. For years, we have visited the Kansas City
Kansas City developed much like other large metropolitan areas. Its expansion often came from incorporating nearby towns and neighborhoods, as it pushed its borders out from the urban core. Some of these townships retained their identity, even as the city limits pushed beyond their borders. We find that each has its unique history and local
For years, Crystal has wanted to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. In her youth, she passed through the region on a road trip, but had not visited as an adult. Being mountain lovers, we felt it was time to remedy this oversight. We were experiencing a warm September, as we headed off on our Smoky
Smoky Mountain Road Trip Part 1 – Rainy Days and Fun Days Read More »
While long vacations can be fun to plan, there are plenty of times we are just looking for a short getaway. Whether it’s a day trip or an overnight stay, taking an excursion to a close by destination can add an air of excitement to any weekend. With a drive from Kansas City that can
We are always on the lookout for unusual sites when visiting a new destination. It is amazing what you can find when you dig deep enough into a city’s attraction. Fort Scott may seem like an unlikely place to learn about the worlds most unheralded heroes. A stop at the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung
There is certainly something to be said for longevity. When we saw that Frank’s Italian Restaurant had been in the same Parkville, Missouri location since 1931, it sparked our interest for a visit. While we were sure that the ownership has definitely changed hands, the fact that the business has survived, speaks volumes for customer
Frank’s Italian Restaurant – Cozy Parkville Dining Read More »
When we planned our visit to Fort Scott, Kansas our itinerary included a variety of sites to see. The one site that had to be top of our list is the actual fort from where the city gets its name. One of a chain of forts built in the mid-1800’s, it was designed for keeping
It amazes us to see the trends repeat themselves over the years. Much like clothing styles that refresh every few decades, we are witnessing a resurgence of the smaller boutique style shops. For many years, the big box stores were pushing these locally owned businesses out of the way. These days you can find more
It’s obvious from our travels that great food can be found just about everywhere. One of the things that elevate a good meal, to the status of great, is the atmosphere. You have probably found yourself enjoying a delicious meal in a location that felt cold and less than welcoming. While not every restaurant will
We never cease to be amazed at the history we find in each city we visit. It’s true that every place is filled with its own set of stories, and it is up to the visitor to seek them out. A trip to Fort Scott, Kansas provided an opportunity to learn more about one of
Let’s be honest, there are good and bad things that come with being travel bloggers. One of the best things is the opportunity to experience so many amazing cities throughout North America. While we will usually only stay for two or three days, we can pack a lot of fun in a little time. With
Our travel blogging research sessions almost always only involves the two of us. When some new travel friends suggested joining us for a meal, we saw it as an opportunity to include them in one of our visits. It also gave me the idea of sharing with all of you what goes in to a
World War II was fought on such an epic scale that it is hard to imagine a museum being capable of reflecting its magnitude. When we discovered that The National World War II Museum was located in New Orleans, we knew a visit was required. Little did we realize just how engrossing the exhibits would
The Cost Of Peace – The National World War II Museum Read More »
It’s time for a confession. With all of the restaurants we have visited and covered, there are still some cuisines that we have overlooked. A friend clued us in on a Thai restaurant that we have passed more times than we can count. The description of the food was so compelling, that we knew it
We enjoy happening upon a new eatery, especially when it is found in conjunction with another visit. This was the case when we were stumbling upon Smitty’s Garage at 8811 State Line, in Kansas City, Missouri. Located in a new development, it joins a handful of other eateries that are new to the city. These
Winter is one of our least favorite seasons. Sure the snow looks beautiful when it is newly fallen, but even that can become tedious with time. There comes a point that we just need to get out of town, even if only for the day. Fortunately, we have lots of great destinations nearby. A short
Getting the opportunity to visit a place like the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum is like returning to the wonder years of our youth. There is something magical about taking a spin on a merry-go-round. For many of us, it was our first amusement ride, and one that is not discriminatory of age. The bright lights,
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without seeing Jackson Square. This parklike setting is named for Andrew Jackson, who is considered one of the key heroes from the War of 1812. All around the square, you will find some of the oldest buildings in the city. To learn more about the early days
History tells us how the railroad was key to Westward Expansion. The race to cross the continent is well documented. Afterwards, it was the railroads that moved people and goods around the nation. Pullman Place Family Restaurant honors this important mode of transportation by including railroad memorabilia in its decor. Located in downtown Leavenworth, Kansas,
Homestyle Eats At Pullman Place Family Restaurant Read More »
It amazes us when we visit a site that we have been so close to, for many years, but have never explored. The Frontier Army Museum, at Fort Leavenworth, is a prime example. Oh, we’ve been to Leavenworth plenty of times, and even quite a few on the Fort Leavenworth Army base. We just never
Understanding the background of the people in a region helps us to better connect with the residents we meet during our trips. To get this information, we find that a visit to the local history museum is a great start. The East Tennessee History Center is located in downtown Knoxville. Inside, we found plenty of
East Tennessee History Museum -The Appalachian Connection Read More »
Leavenworth, Kansas is an easy day trip from our hometown of Kansas City. On an unseasonably warm winter day, we made our way to the “first city” in Kansas to see some new sights. A good day of exploring requires some fuel, which we found at Harbor Lights Coffeehouse & Cafe. After a short drive,
This Kansas City winter has brought a rollercoaster of weather. Last weekend we were anticipating our second big snow in two weeks, which fortunately bypassed us. Even with the cold rain falling from the sky, we still planned a stop at Betty Rae’s Ice Cream to check out their treat menu. We had been seeing
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream Brings Smiles On A Cloudy Day Read More »
2018 was a capital year for us, as it relates to traveling. We were able to visit four state capitals, including Little Rock, Arkansas. In each of these cities, we spent the majority of our time in the downtown areas. Each offered a different experience, but we found a common thread between them. Each city
Little Rock, Arkansas offers visitors many ways to sample the flavors of the city. While the restaurant scene is flourishing, we found that there are some other unique options where you can discover amazing tastes. Our visit only covered about three days, but you will see that during that period we uncovered a wide variety
Little Rock is a city filled with history and we love to learn about the beginnings of the destinations we visit. A stop at the Historic Arkansas Museum was sure to provide a good backdrop for us to find out about the start of the river town. Little did we realize that here we would
Historic Arkansas Museum – Where History Comes To Life Read More »
One of the key goals of Our Changing Lives is to showcase places that are often overlooked as potential destinations. Some are sites that are hidden gems inside of major cities. Others, like Lucas, Kansas, are smaller towns that hold some unique sights that are less known. While many people have never heard of this
Lucas, Kansas – Journey To Grassroots Art Central Read More »
Being at the forefront of the national news is something that many cities would dream of, but not when it is due to public strife. While the conflict at Central High School was 60 years ago, we still see some of the struggles continuing today. Little Rock, Arkansas may have been the backdrop for this particular
Whenever we head out for a day full of exploring, we pre-examine the dining options in the area we plan to visit. This was our second Shop Small Saturday event, and we were excited that it was in Parkville, Missouri this year. Picking Stone Canyon Pizza as our lunch choice was a chance to visit
Stone Canyon Pizza – Fueling Our Shop Small Saturday Read More »
We are pretty sure that most of you have heard of the Garden of Eden, but did you know there is one in Lucas, Kansas? When we first found out about this uniquely Kansas attraction, we knew a visit was in store. Samuel Dinsmoor, the creator of this site, built his masterpiece at an age
“I have to go to the bathroom!” It’s amazing the amount of dread that these seven words can create in a parent. How many road trips are interrupted in a mad pursuit of an acceptably clean public restroom? In Lucas, Kansas, the influx of tourists wanting to view the “Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas” created
Taking Bathroom Selfies To Another Level At Bowl Plaza Read More »
In the past few years we have been seeing more and more small businesses gaining a foothold in communities. This is certainly a change from the long stretch we saw of big business edging out smaller competitors. While we know that bigger business platforms offer economy of scale, it’s the smaller business models that bring
We are betting that many of you have heard of the TV show Rare Visions & Roadside Revelations, which airs on public television. The dynamic trio searches out unique sights across the nation, but in Lucas, Kansas we found a collection that was the subject of one of their stops. At The World’s Largest Collection of
Like many of the cities we visit, Little Rock offers a vibrant downtown. The area we focused on was near the River Market district, which includes the Clinton Presidential Library, an amazing river trail, and a local farmers market. On a beautiful Saturday morning, we left our hotel in search of coffee, before hitting up
For those who haven’t followed us long, we enjoy a nice glass of wine. Of course, we find that the reason they make so many varieties, is because everyone has their own preferences. Fortunately, we both are fans of wines on the sweet side, so it’s not hard for us to find a bottle we
An InstaTasting At Rowe Ridge Vineyards and Winery Read More »
Our first knowledge of Lucas revolved around how artsy this Central Kansas town is known to be. With only this in mind, we began planning our visit. A “must see” we discovered is the Grassroots Art Center, which is located on Main Street. Opened in 1999, this unique attraction occupies the space of three historic
Grassroots Art Center Draws The Folk To Folk Art Read More »
We hail from a river city, so visiting Little Rock, Arkansas gave us an opportunity to see how they have handled their waterway. With the Arkansas River bisecting the city, it becomes a focal point for transportation and recreation. While cities must always be aware of potential flooding possibilities, we like it when we find
When you hear the name Oklahoma, many people immediately think of the namesake musical. While farming and ranching still exists in much of the state, Oklahoma City has grown into a thriving metropolis. Our three day visit was chocked full of fun attractions, delicious dining, and unique shopping districts. This overview article highlights some of
You all know how much we enjoy being able to park for the day and walk to multiple stops. The River Market District in Little Rock, Arkansas is one of those kind of destinations. Sitting along the Arkansas River, we expected to catch views of plenty of wildlife. A stop at the Witt Stephens Jr.
Back To Nature At Central Arkansas Nature Center Read More »
Our visit to Little Rock had a few surprises that we had not expected. One of them was with our visit to The Root Cafe. The plan had been to have lunch there on our first day, but an opportunity to appear on the hit show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives meant that they had to
A chance to visit the oldest science center in the state of Arkansas was not something we planned to miss. While the Museum of Discovery was relocated to their current River Market location in 1998, they have existed since their founding in 1927. With its location being in the heart of the area we were
Most everyone enjoys a vacation, but only has the opportunity to take a handful at most per year. In between these longer trips, it is fun to have a few day trip options in your back pocket. We have lots of small to medium size towns and cities within a two to three hour drive
Sweets, Treats, and Surprises In Chanute, Kansas Read More »
Our visit to Little Rock, Arkansas required a little more driving than some of our downtown destinations, but there was still a large portion that was within walking distance of our hotel. The River Market District offered us a chance to mingle with locals, while shopping and dining in some unique spots like Stickyz Rock-n-Roll
Finding Funky Vibes At Stickyz Rock & Roll Chicken Shack Read More »
Little Rock, Arkansas has a lot of unique features, but one really stood out during our research. The Esse Purse Museum is one of only three brick and mortar locations dedicated to the history of one of women’s most interesting accessory and the only one found in the United States. This may not seem like the most
Esse Purse Museum – One Of A Kind In Little Rock Read More »
Throughout our lives we learn so many important historic names, but our guess is that most of you are unfamiliar with Octave Chanute. When we planned our visit to Chanute, Kansas it never occurred to us how the town had picked its name. A visit to the Chanute Historical Society Museum would help us better
When we were planning our escape to Little Rock, Arkansas, the first restaurant that I selected was Big Orange in Midtown. From the moment we first saw the menu, it was a sure bet that this was a place that needed to be experienced. The photos we saw of their food looked incredible, and we
We both enjoy watching nature programs and seeing animals in their native environments. Like most people, the only time we see many of these creatures in real life is at a zoo. A visit to Chanute, Kansas opened our eyes to the Martin & Osa Johnson Safari Museum. It’s fun to consider the experience of an
Untold Adventure Awaits At The Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum Read More »
If we had a dollar for every time we have heard people remark that there is nothing to see in the middle of the country, we would be rich. While we will usually rebuke their claim, there are times we almost want to keep all of these special places to ourselves. What many don’t realize
When we first started the planning for our Dodge City visit, our heads were filled with pictures of gunfighters, cattle drives, and other Wild West scenes. Even though we live in the 21st Century, we were hopeful to have a chance to see some nostalgic recreations. The opportunity to time our visit during Dodge City
A stop at a restaurant can just be an opportunity to refuel for more exploring, but there are those times when it turns into something special. Our visit to Casey’s Cowtown Club, in Dodge City, Kansas was one of those special occasions. From the outside it looks like a restaurant one might find along Route
We can always count on one thing happening when we release a restaurant article in Kansas City. It will create a lot of conversation among the KC Foodies, which almost always results in a list of more restaurants to add to our “Need To Visit” list. Such was the case for Blind Box BBQ, which
Have you ever visited a dual topic museum? We have been to a few, but none like the one we found in Dodge City, Kansas. At the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame, we discovered a mix of teachers and lessons learned. They say we learn from history, and this place is filled with some interesting
Two For One – Kansas Teachers’ Hall Of Fame & Gunfighters Wax Museum Read More »
Some of you will remember back in the day, when shopping was done at small shops owned locally. Over time these were squeezed out by the “big box” department stores. We have noticed that lately there is a sort of renaissance revival of smaller shops happening here in Kansas City, as well as the other
We found Dodge City, Kansas to be another great walking destination. The downtown section has lots of shops, sights, and eateries within close striking distance. The morning of the Dodge City Days Parade was a perfect time to get an up close view of many of these sights. After a nice stroll through the neighborhoods,
Running a travel blog means that we have the opportunity to stay in lots of hotels. Many of them are your standard lodging choices, which each have their own unique style. Every once in a while we visit one that is completely out of the ordinary. Such is the case with Chateau Avalon in the
There are lots of highways that criss-cross the Central U.S. One of our favorites is the old “Route 66”, which is also referred to as the “Mother Road”. This old school road has regained much of its popularity, as people from all over the world choose to travel on it. Running from Illinois to California,
Usually when we tour around a new destination it requires one of us to do the driving. This makes it difficult to truly enjoy the sights. That is one of the reasons we strive to park and walk most of the time, as it helps us get a better lay of the land. In Dodge
Way back around 1980, a little annual event started up to celebrate the rich diversity found in Kansas City. We are sure that the organizers of this festival were hopeful that it would continue, but wonder if they could have imagined that it would achieve its current level of success. Here we are 39 years
See The World at The Kansas City Ethnic Enrichment Festival Read More »
We enjoy visiting destinations that can be reached in just a couple of hours. Living in the Midwest, we tend to space our cities a little farther apart than what is found on the coasts. Fortunately, the miles between them are filled with some beautiful landscape. Abilene, Kansas makes a perfect day trip from the
Abilene, Kansas – Presidents, Residents, and Plenty Of Chicken Read More »
The Wild West may have been many moons ago, but there is still a place that travelers can experience those long gone days. Dodge City, Kansas is one of the original cow towns in the Midwest and is home to the Boot Hill Museum. This living history space has a mix of static displays and
Gunfights, Graveyards, and Grit – Boot Hill Museum Read More »
Kansas City is a city filled with a diverse population. On any given day you can enjoy about any possible cuisine type that you could imagine. It provides plenty of fuel for a myriad of articles about KC restaurants. It seems that there are dozens of corridors that host a collection of eateries, which are
Fate is fickle, but sometimes things come back around full circle. This story is about a group of Kansans who decided to launch a small batch distillery in the heart of a city that was once known as the “Queen of the Cow Towns”. Boot Hill Distillery sprang to life in 2014 as the first
Who says dinner time has to be just about the dishes? A visit to Tasso’s Greek Restaurant at 8411 Wornall Road, in Kansas City, offers a meal and more. We stopped in on a Friday evening to check out their menu. Our goal was to try our hand at testing a variety of their flavors. While we
Food, Fun and Broken Dishes – Tasso’s Greek Restaurant Read More »
We always get a chuckle when we hear people tell us that there is nothing to see or do in the Midwest. While the destinations can be spread a little farther apart, we find the drive between cities to be filled with beautiful scenery. Once we arrive at our new destination, we are amazed at
Kansas City is filled with all kinds of pizza joints. Many are owned and operated by pizza aficionados who studied in Italy or New York or maybe even Chicago. They bring their special perspective to the food they love creating and give us all a nice variety of pizzerias to select from. Once in a
On a warm summer day, we rolled into Abilene, Kansas. We arrived from the south, much like the cattle drives of old. The first destination on our itinerary was the Dickinson Heritage Center. This multi-subject museum is a good spot to learn the background of the area, as well as some extra informational tidbits. The
Cowboys, Calls, and Carousels – Dickinson Heritage Center Read More »
Coffee! It’s what gets our motors running in the mornings. We dropped by the Filling Station, at 7420 Johnson Drive, to explore their space. Now, we know there are some of you who skip this potent potable, but for us it’s part of our normal routine. We are members of a collection of groups that
There is something engrossing about seeing history come to life. At Old Abilene Town visitors have the chance to witness this happen each weekend during the summer. This place is family-friendly and includes a mix of static museum-style displays with interactive activities. We dropped in on them on a Saturday afternoon and found that they
Those of us who live in or around Kansas City are blessed to have so many interesting destinations within easy striking distance for day trips. We love heading off in the morning for a new location with a list of places to explore. Sometimes we will even seize the opportunity for an overnight stay. There’s
Friday Happy Hours are some of our favorites. There is something about the end of the week that makes them a little sweeter. We enjoy sampling various locations during the happy hours, since it lets us get some extra value for our dollars. Piropos is an Argentinian cuisine restaurant located at N. Mulberry Drive in
Growing up neither of us had much opportunity to travel by train. The heyday of this mode of transportation had passed and most families navigated the countryside by automobile. Recently, we had the chance to take a lunch train ride that piqued our interest in experiencing more of this form of travel. When we laid
All Aboard The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad Read More »
We firmly believe that travel is an excellent way to continue our education in our adult years. With schooling behind us, we can still learn lots of interesting things about this big, blue marble we all call home. One of our favorite subjects is history, and Council Grove gave us plenty of it. When we
One of the things we most enjoy about traveling is the people that we meet. By interacting with the residents, we get a better understanding of what drives them through their lives. Our extended stay in St. Louis, Missouri gave us an excellent chance to mingle with some of the locals, as well as observe
11 Things That Make St. Louis The True Gateway City Read More »
When visiting a historic city, it only makes sense to stay in a historic lodging location. In Council Grove, it ended up being The Cottage House for us. While it would be reasonable to make the visit to Council Grove a day trip, why not extend your visit to include an overnight? It certainly helps
For five years we ran a local restaurant blog, before moving into the travel arena. Through that time, we came to realize that every dining establishment has its redeeming values. Some may have more flavorful dishes, but they all have at least one that they excel with. The key to successful dining when traveling is
Council Grove, Kansas opened up a wealth of historic sites for us. What we learned during our visit was that it wasn’t just limited to museums. Even the restaurants have stories to tell. Our stay in town was only long enough to sample three of their dining establishments, but it still gave us a historic
Council Grove, Kansas is a town that we have heard mentioned many times over the years, but had never visited. Like many small to mid-sized towns, it is filled with the history and stories of the people who persevered in the harsh environment of life on the prairie. In 1541, Coronado crossed the Neosho River
As we have said on numerous occasions, we are zoo people. We rarely pass up an opportunity to visit a new location, and enjoy returning to ones we have already seen. The ever changing exhibits usually offer a new view on something or at least a different perspective. When we planned our St. Louis trip,
Kansas City is such a mecca for barbecue, that we believe you could easily eat this cuisine at a different restaurant every week and never repeat locations. It seems like wherever we travel in the metro, we run into at least one place we had never visited before. This was the case when we stumbled
Being visitors from outside of St. Louis, we found the Forest Park area to be an amazing place to spend time. The lush landscape and numerous attractions beckon visitors to explore. The four crown jewels of the park include their zoo, art museum, science center, and the Missouri History Museum, which is the focus of
Kansas City is a metropolis filled with countless tales. Every corner of the city has its urban legends, myths, and tall tales. Somewhere along the way, many of these began with an inkling of truth and were merely stretched with passing time. Not long after the Civil War ended, many pioneers would pass through Independence
Being from Kansas City, we always attempt to test out the local barbecue at least once. Now we are far from being BBQ experts, but we do know what we like. Since we were staying on the Delmar Loop, a visit to Salt + Smoke seemed to be the perfect spot to do some research.
Kansas City Diners Test St. Louis BBQ At Salt and Smoke Read More »
Do you get excited when you discover a new place that has been right under your nose for years? We do, and this is exactly what happened when we stopped in Happy Gillis at 549 Gillis St. in Kansas City, Mo. A day of exploring required a good breakfast, so we were scouting for a
Kansas Citians are blessed to have so many things to do in the metro area. Of course, sometimes it is nice to get away from the city for the day and strike out to one of the nearby communities. With just a little planning, it’s easy to fill a day with new sights and some
On The History Trail in Miami County – A Kansas City Road Trip Read More »
Like many people, we are learning that there are lots of things to do in some of the medium sized cities. Our visit to Joplin, Missouri lasted just over 24 hours, but could have easily been extended to a full weekend. (We packed a lot into our timeline.) Joplin is a name that many have
The promise of a warm Spring day in Kansas City can often change quickly. Such was the case when we visited the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs, Kansas. We were meeting up with a group of social influencers who had been invited to an Instameet being hosted by Visit Kansas
What To Expect At The National Agriculture Center Read More »
There are varying opinions on the amount of enjoyment one can get from visiting a localized history museum. Some shy away from them, believing that they are dull and boring. Others, like ourselves, find that there are a multitude of personal stories just waiting to be uncovered. In Paola, Kansas we visited the Miami County
Why We Enjoy Places Like Miami County Historical Museum Read More »
These days many places are downsizing, but it seems to be the exact opposite for sporting goods stores. Each major chain is trying to one up the competition, and this creates the perfect opportunity for families to beat the bad weather for the day. We recently visited one of the Scheels stores to see what unique
Most Kansans have heard the name of John Brown. This iconic legend was a hero to some and a villain to others. Although he was not born in the state, many of his most notable actions occurred there. During our Miami County Road Trip, we stopped at the John Brown Museum to learn more about
Whenever we post an article about Kansas City BBQ we receive lots of feedback. Talking barbecue in KC is like discussing pizza joints in Chicago or Philly steak sandwiches in Philadelphia. While it seems that everyone has a different opinion on their favorite, the one thing we can agree on is that Kansas City is
A day trip to Osawatomie, Kansas was less than an hour drive from Kansas City, but landed us in a different era. This itinerary was designed to showcase a variety of historic sites in Miami County. The Osawatomie Museum Complex, located in the downtown, was one of our stops. This locally oriented twin museum tells
What We Learned At The Osawatomie Museum Complex Read More »
Like many of you, we associated the name George Washington Carver with peanuts, but couldn’t really tell you why. The knowledge that he was a botanist seemed familiar, but that was about the extent of what we remembered from school. A visit to the George Washington Carver National Monument would forever change this. The site
St. Louis, Missouri has tons of places to explore, but all of that action means working up an appetite. After our visit to the Civil War Museum and Jefferson Barracks Cemetery, we needed to find a nearby restaurant. (You can read about the museum here.) Just a couple blocks away we discovered Cafe Telegraph, a locally
We are trying to figure out what it is about gas stations and BBQ in Kansas City. We all know about the nationally recognized joint that recently dropped Oklahoma from its name. There is another place that sits on the side of the highway a little farther west in KCK. Well now we found one
Filling Station BBQ – Another KC Gas Station BBQ Joint Read More »
When planning our visit to St, Louis, we wanted to make sure we included some stops that would help us better understand the history of the area. Jefferson Barracks happens to be the oldest operating U.S. military installation west of the Mississippi River. On these grounds, the Missouri Civil War Museum has operated since 2013.
Missouri Civil War Museum – Remembering The Fallen Read More »
Our visit to Baxter Springs, Kansas occurred during the Route 66 Instameet sponsored by Travel Kansas. This was the last stop of the day, so we decided to wander off to explore away from the beaten path. Just a couple blocks from our meeting point, we found the Baxter Springs Historical Museum. We have visited
Let’s just face the facts. We like chocolate! There, it has been said, and there is no taking it back. This may be the reason why so many of our trips include a visit to a chocolate shop. We like to think it is just a service we provide for our readers who are looking
The Midwest portion of the United States is filled with a wide range of destination types. We find that college towns usually offer some interesting things to see, since they have a consistent flow of visitors. Manhattan is home to Kansas State University, and less than a two hour drive from our home in Kansas
Seeing Manhattan, Kansas – Exploring The Flint Hills Read More »
Our Travel Kansas Route 66 Instameet began in Galena, and would end in Baxter Springs. Of course, the space in between was not filled with empty miles. Even though the Mother Road only passes for 13 miles in the state of Kansas, it is filled with some unique sights. With Galena under our belt, it
Rewind a couple of years, and we made a visit to The Basha Cuisine with our daughter. She has always been an adventurous soul when it comes to testing various cuisines. This may be the reason we have been so willing to expand our palettes, by visiting the unique restaurants that can be found tucked
When we received our invitation to join Travel Kansas for a Route 66 Instameet, it was an offer we couldn’t pass up. Our first Instameet was last year, when we toured various places in Kansas City, Kansas. (Read more about that event here>) This time we were visiting two towns in Southeast Kansas. We wanted
Many people are unaware of the integral role that mining played in the settlement and growth of communities in Southwest Missouri and Southeast Kansas. The discovery of lead in the mid-1800s drew miners to the area. Our visit to the Joplin History & Mineral Museum allowed us a chance to learn more about the history
People who journey along the old “Mother Road”, known as Route 66, will periodically encounter some interesting sights. These bites of Americana hearken back to the golden age of automobile travel, and inspire feelings of nostalgia in many travelers. Galena, Kansas sits at the eastern edge of the Kansas portion of the route, which is
Our day trip to Manhattan, Kansas lasted a little longer than some visits, so we needed to make plans for a dinner meal. After reviewing our options, it was decided to sample the small plates at Bourbon & Baker located on the popular Poyntz Avenue. Scoping the Neighborhood Poyntz Avenue is bordered on one end
Living in Kansas City means that we have plenty of day trip destinations within a short drive from the metro. Lawrence, Kansas is only about 45 minutes away, but offers a dynamically different vibe. While many make this pilgrimage to witness the KU basketball team play at Allen Fieldhouse, we visited for a more historic
A few weeks before our visit to Prairiefire, we had been in Manhattan, Kansas. While there, I noticed a restaurant named Coco Bolos and wondered what type of food they served. Our travels that day didn’t allow me to check, but when planning our visit to this Overland Park neighborhood we got a second chance.
Visiting zoos in the Midwest during the winter can be a hit or miss activity. During our day trip to Manhattan, Kansas, we decided to drop in to the Sunset Zoo to see who was enjoying an unusually pleasant sunny day. This smaller zoological park is perfect for a shorter visit, and the lower admission
We have visited Manhattan, Kansas many times in the past, but our trips were always concentrated on the local university. Once that association ended, we never seemed to find the time to return. On a warmer than normal winter day, we made the just under two hour drive from Kansas City to the “Gateway City
We find that the local history museums offer a great chance to get a better cultural experience in the cities we visit. In Lawrence, Kansas we made a stop at the Watkins Museum of History. Housed in the 1888 Watkins Land Mortgage and National Bank Building, this regional museum offers a view into the lives
It is nice to know that Kansas City has a lot of attraction options that can be enjoyed during any weather. On a cold winter day we made a visit to Sea Life at Crown Center. This marine adventure zone offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of oceans, rivers, and lakes.
Who’s Viewing Who? A Visit To Sea Life Kansas City Read More »
Our visit to Manhattan, Kansas took a historical side-trip with a stop at the Riley County Historical Museum. This regional history center is a great place to gather a better understanding of the people and events that molded the city of Manhattan, as well as other towns in the area. An added bonus is that
Riley County History Museum – Flint Hill History Read More »
Stepping into Danny Edwards Blvd Barbecue feels like finding a hidden gem in the heart of Kansas City. Tucked into a modest space, at 2900 Southwest Blvd, they’ve has been serving up smoky goodness for decades. With walls lined with memorabilia, it’s clear this isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a Kansas City institution. We arrived
Most Kansas Citians have visited Lawrence, Kansas at least once in their life. For us, it has been quite a few times, and especially when our daughter worked at Kansas University. When we decided to plan a day-filled excursion, we knew our daughter would enjoy accompanying us to her old homestead. Our first stop was
Spending the winter months hunkered down in Kansas City may not be the most tropical of destinations. It does offer us a chance to build up a backlog of topics for articles about our hometown. Fortunately, if we run out of ideas, we can simply ask our readers, and get a ton of great suggestions.
The majority of the time Crystal and I travel by ourselves. Recently, we took a day to do some exploring in Kansas City, and were joined by our grandkids, as well as a close friend of the family. Our destination was Union Station, and one of the most anticipated stops was at Science City. It
If you are planning a visit to the Branson, Missouri or Eureka Springs, Arkansas areas, you may want to consider adding a stop at Top of the Rock, in Ridgedale, Missouri. We were made aware of it by one of our Kansas City readers, and loved the pictures they shared from their visit. Although we
We have visited Eureka Springs, Arkansas many times over the years, and each trip we have had an enjoyable time. This laid-back community is nestled in the Ozark Mountains, which offers an interesting terrain to explore. This was our first time to see the town through the eyes of travel bloggers. What we found was
With winter’s grip firmly on the Midwest, we thought it would be a nice time for a more temperate article. We happened to have overlooked this visit to the Ward Meade Botanical Garden in Topeka, Kansas. It was during a visit to Old Prairie Town that we stumbled upon this 2.5 acre park, which offers
Dreaming Of Spring At Ward-Meade Botanical Gardens Read More »
Like many couples, we are always on the lookout for restaurants to add to our list for special occasions. We enjoy a good steakhouse, and have a small list we fall back on, when a birthday or anniversary arrives. Finding a new one that rises to the top of the list is a rare feat,
They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. When we are preparing for a day of exploring, we like to start with a solid meal, that must include coffee. While we enjoy a good eggs and meat meal as much as anyone, we also like to test out new dishes when
Our most recent visit to Branson, Missouri was scheduled to see some of the Christmas season attractions. After the four hour drive from Kansas City, we were ready for lunch at White River Fish House. First we stopped by our hotel to drop off our things, and park our car. It was nice staying in
Eureka Springs, Arkansas is the kind of destination where visitors have a chance to slow their pace, and just relax. Even us travel bloggers find an opportunity to just go with the flow. This meant that when we heard about the Blue Spring Heritage Center on the western edge of the city limits, we had
Our most recent visit to Branson, Missouri will be one that we will remember for many years to come. This was our first trip during the Christmas season, and we were excited to see the sights. After the four hour drive from Kansas City, (We may have stopped along the way.) our first destination was
We have visited Pegah’s Family Restaurant in the past, but it was only for breakfast. While these have been good, we never seemed to have our camera on hand when we visited. It was high time we rectified this oversight, and decided to make a lunch stop during a day of exploring. They have four locations,
Our survey of readers had brought to light a small breakfast spot in the heart of downtown Eureka Springs. We had walked past Nibbles Eatery during our shopping excursion, and decided it would make a great stop for our last morning in town. Had we known what we were about to experience, we would have eaten
Nibbles Eatery Delivers Big Flavor In A Small Space Read More »
Like most couples, we have our list of favorites. While we love trying new places, at times we tend to gravitate back to our tried and true picks. When it comes to a nice Happy Hour, one of our tops is found at the Hereford House at 17244 Midland Drive, in Shawnee. An added bonus
We always make an itinerary for our research trips, since it helps keep us on track. While many of the attractions are the base for our visit, we try to be a little more fluid with our restaurant plans. While I will certainly select a few “must try” locations, some of the others are open
Tacos Don Francisco – Hole In The Wall Dining In Tulsa Read More »
A visit to Eureka Springs, Arkansas offers a chance to slow down from the hectic pace of everyday life. This quaint town in the Ozark Mountains is more geared toward leisurely pleasures, and we certainly were looking for some to sample. The Eureka Springs Train hosts a lunch ride that looked perfect for a romantic
One big advantage to living in Kansas City is the wide range of cuisines available throughout the metro. It seems that no matter which area you are in you can find a good selection of restaurants. Some of the “local chains” have locations scattered around the city, so we can enjoy our favorites wherever we
Our arrival in Eureka Springs, Arkansas was not met with grand fanfare. Actually, we just slid in down Main Street, and located a parking spot near downtown. After a drive filled with exploration, the first thing on our minds was lunch. We had polled our readers for restaurant ideas prior to our departure, and Local
When we pass the Grinter House, in Kansas City, Kansas, I try to imagine the life of the Grinters. Being one of the first homes in the area, they surely faced long periods of isolation. Built around 1857, it served as the home for Moses and Anna Grinter. A trail nearby led to the Kaw
When we decided to visit Eureka Springs, Arkansas there was a specific type of lodging that we have always wanted to experience. We have stayed in some of the local cabins in the past, but the chance to hang out in the treetops seemed like an extra special treat. When Treehouse Cottages offered to host
We are honored to have so many of you follow us on our journeys, and enjoy all of the interaction we have with people. While traveling can be exhilarating, we try to have just as much fun when we are at home in Kansas City. There are so many options to enjoy in our city,
Have you ever been to a restaurant so well designed that you immediately fall in love with it? The kind of place you want to explore in depth. That is exactly what we found at Mud Street Annex in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This newly opened offshoot of the original Mud Street Cafe has tons of charm
For as long as they have been around, surprisingly we had never visited Spin Neapolitan Pizza restaurant. During a bout of shopping, hunger overtook us, and we stopped by their location at 14230 W. 119th Street in Olathe, Kansas. What we discovered at this locally originated pizzeria has created a couple of new fans of
It is said that Eureka Springs, Arkansas is one of the most haunted cities in America. If that is true, then the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa must be Ghost Central. We surveyed our readers, while making our itinerary, and the Crescent Ghost Tour ranked high with many of you. This certainly wasn’t a normal attraction
Like many, Crystal and I are coffee lovers. When we heard that a new shop opened on the east end of Kansas City, Kansas we were eager to try it out. We stopped by Splitlog Coffee, at 548 Central Avenue, to check out their digs. Our timing was perfect, as we had the pleasure of a bright,
Splitlog Coffee Helps The East Side OF KCK Get Caffeinated Read More »
When we received an invitation to the Worlds of Fun 2017 RIP Party we knew we would be in for a howling good time. The party was designed to celebrate the new season of the Halloween Haunt, which is their annual Fall festival. Living in Kansas City offers a chance to experience all four seasons, but it
One of the cool things about Powell Gardens is that just about every visit gives the opportunity to see something new. Botanical gardens change by the season, which make them a special place to savor. Another bonus is that they are most often an affordable entertainment option. We want to thank Powell Gardens for their hospitality.
When we planned our latest Topeka visit, our first stop was at Old Prairie Town. This historic site is located on the original path of the Oregon Trail. The morning drive from Kansas City was wet with thunderstorms, but by the time we arrived they had passed by. Wet Start After a small argument with Siri
The 39th Street corridor, near State Line, is filled with interesting restaurants and shops. One of our favorites is Friends Sushi & Bento Place at 1808 W. 39th St. in Kansas City, Mo. Less than a block from KU Hospital, it has a solid following of residents from around the metro. Almost Hidden Gem Friends Sushi
Hidden Treasures at Friends Sushi and Bento Place Read More »
It’s safe to say that most people in Kansas City have heard of the Kansas City Renaissance Festival . (Many just call it KC RenFest) Since it began in 1977, it would also be fair to say that most have either attended or knows someone who has. We have been quite aware of it, since it’s
The Kansas Children’s Discovery Center ended up being a lot more than what we expected. This day-trip included our grandkids, so we had filled the itinerary with places we felt would be kid friendly. Our morning had been historic, and lunch was a visit to a local hangout. Now we had arrived at the place we
Tons Of Fun At Kansas Children’s Discovery Center Read More »
You may wonder how we ended up dining at Bobo’s Drive In during a recent day trip to Topeka, Kansas. We had planned to take our grand-kids, as there were some kid friendly attractions we wanted to research. To pick the right dining establishment, I reached out to our followers for suggestions. Before long, we
Our children are fully grown, so we now have the pleasure of enjoying kid’s appropriate attractions with our grand-kids. Recently, we took them to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead located at 13800 Switzer, in Overland Park, Kansas. Crystal has had the pleasure of visiting this unique site in the past, but this would be my first
We knew we were in for an action packed time, when we scheduled our day trip to historic Independence, Missouri. There are so many great things to see, do, and taste that are all within just a few blocks of the main square. To be able to see all of our stops, we had to
12 Reasons To Visit Historic Independence Missouri Read More »
We recently were invited by Travel Kansas and Visit KCK to participate in our first Instameet. Yeah, we had never heard of it before, either. A little Google searching, and we discovered that it is an event designed to showcase the sights and attractions of a specific region or area. Hmm, sounded very interesting. Now
When the name Hodge Park is mentioned in Kansas City, many only think of the golf course. Did you realize this is also home to the Shoal Creek Living History Museum? For years we had overlooked this unique attraction. We made up for this by spending the first Saturday in July with them. First Impression
The First Friday Artwalk has become an extremely popular event in the Kansas City metro. We went in July, and even though the temperature was hovering in the 90’s, it didn’t slow down the foot traffic. We like to arrive toward the beginning of the event, as it is a little easier to find parking.
Chilling On A Hot Evening At First Friday Artwalk Read More »
We find no fault with people who are proud of their home town. We are both from Wyandotte County, which is lovingly referred to as being a “Dotte”. Traveling has just made us appreciate our local life even more, and we are always happy to spend a day around “Our” town. Up Early in Western
Are you tired of settling for a chain restaurant along the interstate during your vacation? One of the most difficult choices that travelers make is where to dine. We found dining options in Wichita to be numerous, and wonderful. Join us as we recap some of our top Wichita dining choices, as well as a
Our visit to Yard House at the Legends Shopping Center was timed to take advantage of two things; Happy Hour specials, and their shady patio. Enjoying a Happy Hour in Village West is something that wasn’t available a few years ago. These days it is becoming a little more common, and we hope its popularity grows.
It seems like just about any Friday we can find a special event in the metro. Overland Park has it’s Local Life 3rd Friday, which is held in the old downtown area around Santa Fe Drive. The majority of the businesses involved can be found between 79th St. and 81st St. Makings Of A Street
We know that the picture doesn’t necessarily exemplify non-stop action, but it was one of my favorite captures. There is a good chance that the gorilla is wondering just how much fun he would have checking out some Wichita attractions. Now we didn’t have time to do everything available in Wichita, but we certainly tried
Our visit to the Turn 2 restaurant, in Hollywood Casino, showed us that sometimes the hidden gems are right under our noses. Not only does this place have some delicious dishes, but the views of the track at Kansas Speedway are unparalleled by any restaurant in the city. We want to thank Turn 2 Restaurant for
We discovered last weekend, that sitting in a vineyard on a hot evening helps lower the temperature a few degrees. The occasion was the Summertime Music Series at Holyfield Winery. We have mentioned this Basehor small batch vintner previously, and even written an article about them. Jazzing up The Vineyard Holyfield Winery runs the summer series
The Mid-America All-Indian Center, in Wichita, is the only facility solely dedicated to the culture of the American Indians, located in the state of Kansas. Situated on the point of land that overlooks the Arkansas River, a visit to this unique museum was a chance to explore the cultural history of the people who first
Being natives of Kansas City, we believe we know a little about barbeque. The opportunity to add Delano Barbeque Company to our itinerary meant a chance to sample one of our favorite cuisines. This restaurant has only been around for a little over a decade, but it has certainly established itself as a Wichita staple in
Downtown Independence Square is easily walk-able, but a ride with Pioneer Trails Adventures is a great way to get a new perspective. We have visited this historic locale on many occasions, but never like this time. We had just completed a tour of the old jail, and now we were ready to experience a trail ride. A
One of our first stops in Wichita, was the Sedgwick Historical Museum. We know that a good way to get a quick understanding of a city you are visiting, is by making a trip to the local historical museum. Our arrival was on a bad weather day, so it made for a perfect indoor treat. Palace of
Learning From The Past At The Sedgwick Historical Museum Read More »
Our last morning in Wichita brought us to Jimmie’s Diner for breakfast. The owners of the restaurant happened to be there that morning, and we had the pleasure of visiting with them for a while. They made us feel like a couple of the locals, and filled us in on the interesting history of this
The Sedgwick County Zoo has a history of continuous improvements. Since it’s early days in 1971, this Midwestern zoo has had big dreams, which it strives to fulfill. With almost 300 species, this zoological park has blossomed into a major attraction. We want to thank the Sedgwick County Zoo for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions
Our choice of Monarch for dinner one evening was made based on a single menu item. When I saw they served up a Cuban sandwich, it sealed the deal. The only thing left was to hope it was a good one. Eclectic Decor The restaurant sits on the edge of a roundabout in the Delano section
Not too long ago, Sheridan’s (You know the custard people) launched Unforked. You may notice we rarely feature any restaurants that belong to a chain. Oh sometimes we may include one, if it stands out in some particular way. After quite a few people starting suggesting we visit Unforked, we finally decided it was time
Although we usually shy away from showcasing chains, Il Vicino Wood Fired Pizza is one of those exceptions. While the idea of wood fired pizza is no longer a rare occurrence, toss in that the recipes are all determined by a gourmet chef, and now that’s something special. We visited their Bradley Fair location in Wichita, Kansas
For the past 15 years, Union Station has hosted Celebration at the Station. This annual event occurs on Memorial Day weekend, and honors those who have and are putting themselves in harms way to protect our freedoms. This year was especially significant, as they recognized the 100th anniversary of the United States entry into World
Tanganyika Wildlife Park is not exactly what we think of when we hear the word zoo. Although visitors can have a zoo-like experience, they can also choose to dive deeper into the world of animals. The owners wanted to help guests gain a more personal interaction with the wonderful creatures, that the zoo cares for on
Tanganyika Wildlife Park – Unique Name, Awesome Experience Read More »
Our original research identified TJ’s Burger House as a good option for one of the locally-owned restaurants to visit. Sadly, time restraints forced us to cut it from our final list. When the day to head out arrived, unseasonably low temperatures in Wichita forced us to make a last minute itinerary change. We quickly reinserted TJ’s
We love a good Happy Hour, and are always searching for new places. A visit to Paulo and Bill, located at 16501 Midland Drive in Shawnee, was an opportunity to check out their specialty menu. We hadn’t been to this location in quite some time, so we were eager to see what changes had taken place.
Los Alamos Market y Cocina sits in the middle of the Westside area in Kansas City, Missouri. Located at 1667 Summit Street, it is within walking distance of downtown or the Crossroads District. Since 2001, Los Alamos Market has occupied this corner. Nearby residents and visitors enjoy a variety of locally owned restaurants and shops.
Kansas City, Kansas has the distinction of being known as “The Melting Pot of the Midwest”. A visit to the Strawberry Hill Museum, at 720 North 4th Street, showcases the contribution that Slavic nations have had on our growing city. The area was originally named Splitlog Hill after the wealthy mill owner, Mathias Splitlog. He parceled out the land
A short stay in Chicago, Illinois offers travelers tons of options. Our trip was focused on the City Center area. We were hoping to enjoy the museums and shopping possibilities. From Kansas City, we were only looking at a 1 1/2 hour flight, so it’s a great destination. Our Temporary Home in Chicago We chose to forego a
Pierpont’s Restaurant is a premier seafood and steak house located in Kansas City’s Union Station. A visit to this restaurant is like a step back in time to when the station was built in 1914. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and there are many hidden gems tucked inside. The expectations for a dinner at this type of establishment are
Our Rocky Mountain Road Trip had us leaving Yellowstone Park after just a couple of days. We felt as though we barely scratched the surface of what there is to see. We made a note to ourselves that there would have to be a return trip at some time in the future. For now we aimed our
South by Southwest – Rocky Mountain Road Trip Part 3 Read More »
Tao Tao Chinese Restaurant has a long history of serving downtown Kansas City, Kansas. This shop, at 1300 Minnesota Avenue, has been dishing up popular menu items since 1970. Some customers have been frequenting this location since they opened. Others have just recently stumbled upon the heaping mounds of fresh Chinese food that they dish
Get More Bang For Your Buck at Tao Tao Chinese Restaurant Read More »
Just about everyone who has driven by 931 Broadway, in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, has seen the bright red awning over the entrance of The Majestic Restaurant. The building started life over 100 years ago as the Fitzpatrick Saloon. Built in 1911, the same year Jim Pendergast (Boss Tom’s older brother) passed away, it housed the saloon and a
Poppy’s Ice Cream & Coffee House is located at 307 SE Douglas in downtown Lee’s Summit. It was a welcome sight during our recent visit. For us, one of life’s sweetest treats is ice cream. Give us a warm day, and a bowl of ice cream, and we are just about as happy as we can
We were looking for a restaurant, that presented dining with flair, in downtown Lee’s Summit. We decided to visit Third Street Social, which is located at 123 SE 3rd Street. Third Street in downtown Lee’s Summit, Missouri offers up an eclectic collection of dining opportunities. Burgers, tacos, wings, bar grub, pizza, and many other food groups are
Kansas City, Kansas isn’t as old as some of the other large Midwest cities. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t have just as colorful a history as the others. A recent visit to the Huron Indian Cemetery, on 7th Street just north of Ann Avenue, reminded us just how unique our beginnings were. The name Huron was a
Specialty lodging options come in many styles. Some places have indoor waterparks, while others may have an unbelievable view. About 1 1/2 hours north of Salt Lake City, in Logan, Utah, you will find Anniversary Inn, which has the designation of being a most unusual lodging option. Logan was founded by Brigham Young in 1859.
One of our favorite day trip destinations from Kansas City, Kansas is the capital of our state, Topeka. The population is about the same as our hometown, and it offers some nice attractions less than an hour away. Many times our visits have a simple itinerary located along Topeka’s 10th Street, which includes a couple
Topeka’s 10th Street – A Day Trip to Capitol City Read More »
In less than three hours you can drive from Kansas City to Omaha, Nebraska. Once there you will find a multitude of attractions, activities, and oddities to keep you occupied. We have made this trip on multiple occasions, and it seems that we always find plenty to keep us busy. This place makes for a wonderful
We are sure in most cases that if you cut a Kansas Citian they would bleed barbecue sauce. Now we have all heard stories about the various choices in this great BBQ town, but what about when you leave the metro? Well on a recent trek south we had the opportunity to test the saucy waters. We paid
You can tell a lot about a restaurant by the length of time it has been in business. Old Shawnee Pizza was established in 1969 by Joe Walker. Looking to provide a better life for his family, he borrowed the money from his father to begin the venture. Years later, seeing the need for more room,
A lot of buzz around Kansas City, Kansas of late has been focused on Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, a newer restaurant located at 941 North 74th Drive. Located about 1/2 block south of State Avenue on 74th Drive, the restaurant is in what used to be an old water-slide park, which some of you
Kansas City, Kansas, is home to countless hidden gems, but few are as beloved as Christy’s Tasty Queen (1405 S 55th St, Kansas City, KS). This unassuming little spot has been serving up massive, golden-fried tenderloin sandwiches for decades, drawing locals and road-trippers alike. If you’re looking for a meal that barely fits on a
The Armourdale section of Kansas City, Kansas is filled with small businesses and hard working families. Restaurants in the area, like El Pollo Rey, may cater to the local residents, but their creations draw customers from all around the metro. Many of the buildings, that house these restaurants, have been home to a variety of
There is a huge variation between cities in the Midwest. There are lots of small towns, which are based around the old town square format. As you move up to larger cities, you start to see more multi-story buildings. Then you have the Chicago skyscrapers. By the time you get to a city the size
Tucked away in Basehor, Kansas, Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery offers a charming escape for wine lovers. This family-owned winery has crafted award-winning wines for over 25 years, using grapes grown on their ten-acre vineyard. Visitors can sample wines, from crisp whites to bold reds, all produced with Kansas-grown grapes. The tasting room provides a welcoming
Kansas City is packed with hidden gems, and Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant is a must-visit for families. This unique train-themed dining experience in Kansas City has delighted guests for decades. Stepping inside feels like entering a vintage railway station, with train decor covering the walls and the sound of locomotives filling the air. The magic happens
All Aboard for Fun: A Unique Train-Themed Dining Experience in Kansas City Read More »
Nestled in the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, the Rosedale Memorial Arch is a quiet yet powerful tribute to the sacrifices made by those who served in World War I. For many locals, including myself, the arch isn’t just a monument; it’s a poignant reminder of the bravery and dedication of our community’s heroes. This
Honoring Heroes: The Timeless Legacy of Kansas City’s Rosedale Memorial Arch Read More »
We Kansas Citians are very fortunate to have a good selection of zoos to choose from, within a fairly reasonable driving distance. The Kansas City Zoo is a decent park but doesn’t have the monetary sponsors that a couple of the others in the Midwest are blessed with. The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska
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