Spring time is almost here and for most that means “Spring break” is almost upon us. So why should all the kiddos have all the fun this coming Spring and Summer, right? I love to travel and plan to expand my travels soon. But for now, I enjoyed discovering local cities within a three to a four-hour radius of Kansas City. This time my local girlfriend getaway took us away to a local college town. Come along as I’ll show you how to have a fantastic time in Lawrence, Kansas.
Where to stay?
Believe it or not! Lawrence, Kansas has lots of hotels to choose from. We stayed at The Eldridge Hotel which is a lovely and historic venue. The Eldridge Hotel stood until 1925 as one of the finest hotels west of the Mississippi River and continued to play a major role in the early development of Lawrence and the state of Kansas. By 1925, the hotel had begun to deteriorate. A group of Lawrence business leaders were organized by Billy Hutson to tear down and rebuild The Eldridge Hotel because of its importance to the city of Lawrence and restore it to its former place of dignity and elegance. Billy Hutson fully committed himself and his life savings to the project. The community stepped forward and made the investment necessary to ensure the success of this significant undertaking.
The city guaranteed to preserve the hotel’s core beauty and structure. The beauty was not the only thing the hotel had to offer. I’ll share with you; there is a rumor that the ghosts of the Eldridge Family still recede within the hotel. Although I did not see nor feel any ghostly spirits many hotel stayers via the internet said they had. But, don’t let the historical aspect of the rooms are updated with breathtaking views of downtown Lawrence and the touch screens in the lobby gives a visitor the opportunity to find things to do within the city. While there don’t forget to try out the hotels’ brunch buffet, it’s one of the most talked about brunch buffets in the city.
Where to eat
When dining in Lawrence, you will never be short of fantastic places to eat. The city hosts a variety of dining experiences; I’m sharing with my personal favorites.
The Roost
When in Lawrence, you have to visit The Roost. The Roost is a local eatery that serves up breakfast, lunch, pastries, coffee and cocktails in the heart of the city. Be prepared for a well worth it wait. While waiting, I toured the pastry counter which made me appreciate the power of good old fashion baking again. I selected The Rooster which includes French toast the size of my hands, scrambles eggs, and pecan wood smoked bacon. Let me tell you that you cannot go wrong with this option. While my girlfriend selected an savory breakfast of potato pancakes combo, She raved about her dish as well. This Lawrence staple is a must-try!
Lady Bird Diner
The Lady Bird Diner who dubs themselves as the finest pie and diner food in Lawrence and I’d have to agree. The diner boasts a 50’s retro vibe complete with a jukebox, each table had vintage salt and pepper shakers from cats to bread shaped. The pie/dessert counter looked great as well. I ordered the Huevos Rancheros which was by far the best I’ve ever had! While my girlfriend ordered the Diner breakfast with hash browns and gravy. Let’s just say the food was so good; we did not even both to ask to try each other’s meal. Just like any popular place to eat be prepared for a little bit of a wait. But don’t fret – it’s worth it!
Ramen Bowls
The Ramen Bowls was born on a Wednesday afternoon while working in Honolulu’s Chinatown. A piping hot bowl of seafood ramen would be their final meal after living on the island of O’ahu for four years. Years later they settled in Lawrence, Kansas – and Ramen Bowls were born. I ordered the Tokyo Shoyu Ramen – which includes thin noodles/chicken broth/pork belly/napa cabbage/braised egg/scallions/fried leeks/and seaweed. Although bowls are very attractive, be sure to order a few appetizers. My favorites were the spin on crab rangoon – The chicken wontons made with braised chicken and cream cheese with a delicious sriracha aioli dipping sauce. Another personal favorite was the edamame – fabulous.
What to do?
Final Friday’s
This free event happens every final Friday of the month. So what happens on Final Friday’s, you say? It’s where a group of local artists, galleries, and art collectives come together in a free month arts festival. You’ll travel from gallery space to storefront to hidden places that boast creative and unique art work. You can also experience a live performance, but this event doesn’t exclude families as it has activities for kids to enjoy as well. The best thing is everything is all within walking difference of each other.
Spencer Museum of Art
The Spencer Museum of Art is located on the college campus of the University of Kansas. The museum has a vast collection of both African, American, Asian, European, and Contemporary Art. There was so much to see, and it’s a great place to take the family as well. Here are a few photos from my favorite pieces shown below.
The Nest
The Nest is on top of The Oread Hotel located in the University of Kansas campus. The first day we were unable to make it as there was a wedding. But the following day we went back to catch the amazing view. You can experience the City of Lawrence and all its beautiful glory. This is a site you must visit!
Lawrence Arts Center
The Lawrence Arts Center were nothing short of entertaining. My girlfriend and I saw the latest showing of Frankenstein. I admit, Frankenstein has never been my favorite and I was convinced I would be bored after the first act. But the actors were seasoned, and I watched the whole thing through. Even so, during the intermission, I came back early, so I did not miss the top of the scene. Be sure to not skip over things such as the local theaters, as you’ll be surprised at how good they are and will not be disappointed.
As you can see from beautiful hotels, great shopping, delicious food, and friendly locals. Lawrence should be on your list of local girlfriend getaway destinations.
Just found your blog and I live the advice on a Lawrence getaway!! My girlfriends and I have a local KC blog called Unfiltered Adventure and it’s awesome to find other local bloggers!!