It is undeniably comforting stepping into a local bookstore while traveling—it’s like finding a little piece of home tucked into a new place. Independent bookstores across the state offer more than just shelves of well-loved titles; they create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where travelers can slow down, sip a cup of coffee, and chat with friendly locals. From creaky wooden floors and cozy reading nooks to curated selections of regional authors, Kansas bookstores invite visitors to relax and feel connected to the community. Whether you're browsing for a new novel or just soaking in the small-town charm, here are some local favorites that offer a quiet retreat to make your journey feel a little more personal.
 

Local Bookstores

• Monstera’s Books - Overland Park
• Raven Book Store - Lawrence
• Round Table Bookstore - Topeka
• Middle Ground Books - Emporia
• The Dusty Bookshelf - Manhattan
• Flint Hills Books - Council Grove
• Crow & Co Books - Hutchinson
• Twice Told Tales - McPherson
• The Literacy Cat Co and Books and Burrow - Pittsburg
• Watermark Books & Café - Wichita

Discovering a local coffee shop while on the road—where warm hospitality meets the comforting aroma of a fresh brew—is how I crave to start my day. These cozy spots offer more than just caffeine; they’re gathering places where travelers can slow down, recharge, and experience the heart of the community. Whether it’s a rustic café tucked into a historic downtown or a modern roastery serving up creative lattes, Kansas coffee shops blend charm, flavor, and friendliness in every cup. With comfy corners, local art on the walls, and baristas who love to chat, these hometown hangouts make every visitor feel like a regular.
 

Cafes & Coffee Shops

• Garden House - Kansas City
• Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop - Kansas City
• Espurresso Cat Café - Lawrence
• Milk & Honey - Topeka
• Front Range Cafe - Fairway
• Radina’s Coffeehouse & Roastery - (multiple locations in Manhattan)
  • Blue Earth Place Location
  • North Manhattan Ave.
  • Radina's on the Hill
• Ad Astra Books & Coffee House- Salina
• Blacksmith Coffee Shop & Roastery- Lindsborg
• Root Coffeehouse & Creperie- Pittsburg
• Cottonwood Coffeehouse- Lakin
• Red Beard Coffee- Dodge City
• Steamy Joe Café- Ark City

Local plant stores, greenhouses, and arboretums offer more than just greenery—they provide a cozy, peaceful escape that many travelers now seek out intentionally. From a charming small-town nursery or a lush urban greenhouse, these spaces invite visitors to slow down, breathe deep, and enjoy the calming atmosphere filled with vibrant plants and earthy scents. Travelers love exploring these hidden gems, often discovering unique local plants, handmade pottery, or even sipping a coffee among the foliage. It’s a chance to connect with nature, support small businesses, and bring a little piece of Kansas home.
 

Plant Stores, Greenhouses, & Arboretums

• Café Equinox - Shawnee
• Overland Park Arboretum - Overland Park
• The Henry’s Plant Farm - Lecompton
• Jungle House - Lawrence
• Grow Plant Bar - Wichita
• Bartlett Arboretum - Belle Plain
• Ward’s Garden Center & Café - Garden City

Bars, Breweries, & Speakeasys

These local spots offer more than just a great drink—they provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere where travelers can unwind and feel right at home. Whether it’s the handcrafted beer at a small-town brewery, the flicker of candlelight in a hidden speakeasy, or the friendly chatter in a neighborhood bar, these places invite you to slow down and savor the moment. People often travel specifically for these unique experiences, seeking out the character and charm that only a local watering hole can provide. In Kansas, it’s easy to find yourself sipping something delicious and thinking, “I could stay here a while.”

• John Brown's Underground - Lawrence
• Force of Nature Brewing - De Soto
• Hairy Beast Brewing -Topeka
• Dockum - Wichita
• Somerset Schoolhouse - Paola
• Brew 56 - Lyons
• Big Booty Trudy’s Speakeasy & Cigar Bar - Salina
• Irrigation Ales - Courtland
• Hidden Trail Brewing - Garden City