Between Wichita And The Oklahoma Border Is A Charming Midwest City With Museums, Shops, And Tasty Restaurants

Kansas is perhaps best known for its rolling prairies and wide-open plains, but its charming communities are worth discovering too. The state is dotted with towns and cities that are rich in history and community spirit. Those craving a countryside escape should make their way to Wellington, a quiet city with a small-town feel. Visitors will discover a bevy of local eateries, intriguing museums, historic architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it worth the drive. Wellington is just 40 minutes south of Wichita by car and less than 30 minutes north of the Oklahoma border.

Back in the late 19th century, Wellington was a key stop on the Chisholm Trail, a famous cattle-driving route at the time. Eventually, steam trains whistled past as Wellington grew into a railroad town with the arrival of the Santa Fe line. Today, history fiends can explore more of Wellington's early days at the Chisholm Trail Museum and snap photos with old locomotives at the Panhandle Railroad Museum.

Sightseers can wander along Wellington's main thoroughfare, lined with brick storefronts and preserved Italianate architecture. Explore the local boutiques and find a tasty eatery along the way. Nature lovers will enjoy Wellington's countryside surroundings. Just north of the city is Hargis Creek Watershed Park, where anglers can reel in a fresh catch. Also a short drive away is Wellington Lake, where visitors can spend the day swimming, relaxing on the beach, and watching the sunset across the water. 

Those interested in Wellington's cowboy history can stop by the Chisholm Trail Museum. For several decades starting after the Civil War, cattle drivers from Texas traveled north along the Chisholm Trail to sell their herds at markets in Abilene, Kansas, passing directly through Wellington on the way. Exhibits at the Chisholm Trail Museum now display the memorabilia that might have belonged to these frontiersmen. The museum's rooms recreate scenes from this time period, including an old-school general store and a classroom.

Also worth visiting in Wellington is the NDGA National Glass Museum, a veritable treasure trove of unique glassware. The shelves are packed with vintage jars, teacups, stemware, and glass dishes in a rainbow of colors, and the best part is the entire museum is free to visit. "All of the glass was beautiful and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful," a previous visitor wrote on Google. After wandering the displays, head to the museum's gift shop to pick up souvenirs.

For more shopping opportunities, visit Then and Now Mercantile just down the street. Thrifters will find even more glassware for sale here, as well as apparel, accessories, and even retro vinyl records. Craft enthusiasts can pick up fabrics at the Beehive Quilt Shop, which also sells quilting kits and pattern books, along with plushies, LEGO sets, and puzzles for the kids. "I love that they have combined a toy store with a quilting fabric store," wrote a past customer. Once you've explored downtown Wellington, drive 30 minutes to Winfield, an affordable city with its own walkable downtown and a popular brewery.

Once you've had your fill of shops and museums, Wellington's mouthwatering eateries await. Highly-rated on Google is The Big Cheese Pizza. "The pizza is fantastic with almost no flop and very crispy," a previous customer said. Though the interior is simple, many reviews praise the high-quality pies, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. In addition to pizzas and submarine sandwiches, the restaurant also serves a lunch buffet every day of the week.

Another popular spot in town is Travelin' Smoke BBQ, which also boasts rave reviews on Google. Tuck into a turkey dinner with a side of fried okra and cheese curds, or get the loaded potatoes covered in sour cream and bacon. "This was the best [BBQ] place I've ever been to," one diner wrote. "And wow, the ribs fall right off the bone." Locals also love Fabiola's for flavorful Mexican dishes. Be sure to try the chimichangas and shrimp cocktail, followed by churros and fried ice cream for dessert.

Those with a sweet tooth can stop by the Muffin Top Bakery for cupcakes, cookies, and chocolate-covered fruit. The menu also includes beverages like cold brew coffee, iced matcha, and lemonade. Travelers who wish to stay overnight in Wellington have several options to choose from, such as the Blue Way Inn & Suites and Baymont by Wyndham. Keep the Kansas adventures going with a trip to Independence, a charming city with a historic downtown and a famed festival. Or, venture 40 minutes across the Oklahoma border to Blackwell, another historic gem known for its museum and golf course.