CITY GUIDE TO THE GREATEST place IN THE MIDWEST
illustrated & designed by lauren Weege
KU
CLINTON LAKE
TOp 5 city guide The Basil Leaf Cafe 715 Genovese The Burger Stand at the Casbah Zen Zero
Au Marche & Brits Made Shark’s Surf Shop The Etc. Shop Raven Bookstore
Welcome to the greatest place in the Midwest! Boasting a bustling downtown, a legendary university on Mt. Oread and tons of culture, high and low. If you’re new to the area or heading here for the weekend, use this guide as a playbook for your stay.
Allen Fieldhouse the Live Music Scene The Barrel House Clinton Lake/Beach Winery Tastings & Tours
Free State Brewery Red Lyon Tavern Johnny’s Tavern (the original) The Sandbar The Wheel
KU’s Museum District Phoenix Gallery Lawrence Art Center Dole Institute Watkin’s Museum & Zen Garden
The Oread Hotel The Eldridge Hotel Halcyon House B&B Victorian Veranda B&B The Eldridge Extended
The opinions expressed in this guide are those of several 30-somethings who are in love with Lawrence, KS and all the fun stuff to do here we had to share it with our fellow humans. If your favorites aren’t mentioned in this guide, we sincerely apologize.
@TheBasilLeafCafe EAT PHOTos
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THE BASIL LEAF CAFE 785.856-1078 3300 West 6th Street (closed Sundays) | $$
Randomly located inside a Phillips 66 gas station (don’t judge, they’re avoiding the high rent of downtown until they can get more established), this is absolutely Lawrence’s best restaurant. Gourmet and on-the-go - drive thru or dine-in - you get a ton of food for very low cost. Just read the description for their BBQ Spaghettini: saute of peppers, onions, smoked ham, andouille, chicken, sweet corn & tomato in a mesquite smoked tomato sauce, topped with cheddar, bacon, & fried baked beans. If you’re not sold by now, then we don’t know what to tell you.
#2 715
#4 The Burger STand at the Casbah
Whether you call it 7-1-5 or seven-fifteen, this is an authentic European bistro in the heart of downtown. Thanks to locally grown produce and meats, the place offers a Midwesten twist on European flavors. Unique offerrings such as Rabbit Ravioli and Honeycomb & Sweet Cream Gelato make for an uncommon dining experience.
Previously located inside Dempsy’s Pub, the Burger Stand offers gormet burgers on a budget. Care for a new taste explosion for your mouth? Here are some offerrings: American Kobe beef with pickled red onion and truffle butter - or - The Fire Burger: topped with fresh avocado & habanero-cactus jam!
#3 Genovese
#5 Zen Zero
Consistently offers authentic Italian dishes. We recommend the Gnocchi with slow roasted pork shoulder ragu, chili flakes & shaved pecorino cheese - or enjoy the Family Style Sharing Pizza, Pasta & Salad on Sundays. And always order the Mussels to start!
If your palate is in search of something out of the ordinary, then you’ll enjoy this “Asian restaurant with cuisines from Nepal, Tibet, Thailand, Vietnam & Japan.” We recommend a cup of Tom Yam soup to start - then go with Phad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), and finish with the green tea ice cream.
785.856-7150
785.842-0300
715 Massachusetts Street | www. 715mass.com | $$
941 Massachusetts Street | www.genoveseitalian.com | $$$
Honorable Mention: Biemer's BBQ 2
785.856-0543
785.842-0800
2120 West 9th Street | www.biemers.com | $
785.832-0001
803 Massachusetts Street | www.thecasbahburgerstand.com | $
811 Massachusetts Street | www.zen-zero.com | $$$
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FREE STATE BREWERY 785.843-4555
photo courtesy Free State Brewing Co
Many locals will wonder why this brewery isn’t #1 in the restaurant category - Free State could probably win #1 in every section (other than “Stay”, unfortunately). But the focus here is “Drink” and this place is the top brewery in the Midwest. Seasonal brews and old-standbys adorn the fantastic menu. Grab a beer and head out to the patio with friends to enjoy the evening.
#2 RED LYON TAVERN
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the Brewery
785.832-8228
944 Massachusetts Street
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World Cup soccer, world-class bartenders and world-class beer. This euro-style (English/Irish) pub sells the most Guinness in the Midwest. Real darts and free popcorn with friendly patrons and friendly attitudes. Take time to take in the sign above the bar: “Please don’t tell anyone about the Lyon. We have no time for strangers. Remember it’s your seat.”
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636 Massachusetts Street | www.freestatebrewing.com
#3 JOHNNY'S TAVERN (THE Original) 785.842-0377
401 N. 2nd Street | www.johnnystavern.com
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#4 THE SANDBAR 785.842-0111
17 East 8th Street | www.thesandbar.com
Escape the plains and welcome to Key West, Kansas. “Home of the indoor hurricane.” Jimmy Buffett on the Juke, a huge aquarium, tropical drinks, and the occasional glimpse of a live mermaid.
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EDIT: Doug
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Since 1953, Johnny's has been the "other" Lawrence institution - maybe even tradition - with the longest running’ tap in town. The original red arrow and giant beer mug sign still grace the entrance.
#5 THE WHEEL too! e it
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785. 841-0488
507 West 14th Street
If you’re looking for an authentic KU drinking establishment, then you’ve met your match. As the closest bar to campus, even KU Alumni in their 80s still frequent this watering hole - a student tradition since the 1950s. Honorable Mention: THE JAZZHAUS 785.749-3320
926 1/2 Massachusetts Street | www.jazzhaus.com
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@AuMarche/Brits shop Au Marche & Brits 931 & 929 Massachusetts Street | www.aumarche.com | www.britsusa.com
Skip the terminal, customs and avoid the jetlag by heading over to Europe, Kansas. Located right next door to each other, you can lose yourself for hours in these two places. Au March is part market and part interactive gallery, depending on how you shop. Often the staff will have something delicious cooking for you to try. We are fans of the Italian papers, foreign foods and soaps. This is the best place to buy a unique gift for those back home. Brits is an authentic little English shop with a plethora of stiff-upper-lip collectables and intrigues. We love the football scarves, the English teas and the ability to purchase BBC items on the spot.
#2 Made (on Mass)
#4 THE ETC. SHOP
A modern handmade shop carrying locally made items, along with items from regional & national artists. New items arriving weekly so check in often.
Featuring reproductions of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Frank Lloyd Wright and Dard Hunter, of the Arts and Crafts movement. They also offer hand-made jewelry by European and American artists.
#3 SHARK's SURF SHOP
#5 raven bookstore
No place to surf in Kansas? No problem! The fine folks at this landlocked oasis managed to create a surf shop that feels like any boardwalk store. Surf shoes, sandals, gnarly sunglasses, and beach clothes - there’s even a tanning booth for your inner surf dude!
Nothing like the big chain bookstores - thank goodness - this little bookshop features mystery novels, intimate bookreadings, and literary gifts. Check out the PBS Mystery posters capping the ceilings and strike up a conversation with one of its interesting staff.
785.841-8289
737 Massachusetts Street | www.madeonmass.com
785.843-0611
813 Massachusetts Street | www.sharkssurf.com
Honorable Mention: Sunflower Outdoor & Bike Shop
785.749-3300
785.843-5000
scarves football team
928 Massachusetts street | www.theetcshop.com
chocolate covered bacon!
6 East 7th Street | www.ravenbookstore.com
802 Massachusetts Street | www. sunfloweroutdoorandbike.com
fun gifts
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785.749-1162
Italian soaps
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785. 843-2288 /865-0876
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KU's Museum district 785.864-3506
for district INFOrmation. Spencer museum of art, KU Natural History Museum, KU History Galleries in the Kansas Union
At the Natural History Museum, see the famous panorama of North American mammals which debuted at the 1893 World’s Fair to the amazement of all of Chicago; a working bee hive; dinosaurs and a live bug town - and that’s just the first stop. From there - walk throughout the Kansas Union (right next door) to view over 20 museum panels on the history of the university and its students - plus take in the world’s largest collection of Jayhawks, numbering over 1,000. After you’ve found your new favorite sweatshirt at the KU Bookstore on level 2, head on over to the Spencer Museum. Four stories of paintings, sculptures, prints and photography from almost every continent - European, American, East Asian, Medieval, Japanese Edo-period painting and prints and 20th-century Chinese painting. Also check out the ethnographic collection, which includes about 10,000 Native American, African, Latin American and Australian works. Peruse the sculptures on Spencer’s lawn before you head out.
#2 PHOEnix gallery
#4 dole institute
This gallery specializes in functional pottery, blown glass, wood work and much more - hand crafted goods by local and national artisans.
An institute for politics, this architectural stunner holds several exhibits, two stain glass windows and hosts fireside chats with today’s important political figures.
#3 lawrence arts center
#5 Museum & zen Garden
Exhibition space within the art center houses some surprising gems. The collection is always rotating new talent, so don’t miss this stop - you might discover your new favorite artist.
Located downtown, enjoy Watkins Museum’s historical displays recounting Lawrence as the birthplace of the Civil War. See other items such as a horse-drawn buggy from 1900 and an electric car from the 1920s. Just outside, you can stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden at any time.
785.843-0080
919 Massachusetts Street | www.phoenixgalleryks.com
Jayhawk bourbon decanter Ezra Brooks Distilling Co
odon The Smil
New Hampshire Street | www.lawrenceartscenter.org
*CHeck out seasonal opportunities on page 8.
785. 841-4109
2350 Petefish Drive | www.doleinstitute.org
1047 Massachusetts Street | www.watkinsmuseum.org
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785. 843-2787 940
785. 864-4900
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1651 Naismith Drive | www.ku.edu
Welcome to the birthplace of basketball - “Pay Heed, all who enter: Beware of the Phog.” Named after famed KU coach Forrest C. “Phog” Allen, a game at the Fieldhouse will give you the best feeling in the world. Grown men tear up during the opening video shown before each game - you are guaranteed to get chills. Granted, there’s only about 20 home-games a season, so if you can get tickets - just go! Arrive early to take part in the opening traditions and stay late for the Rock-Chalk Chant, and the waving of the wheat. If you’re not a Jayhawk when you arrive, you’ll be one by the time you leave.
#2 LIVE MUSIC
#4 CLINTON LAKE/BEACH
This town is know for great live music. All three venues are famous for launching the careers of up-and-coming artists, plus, many established acts stop in Lawrence during their tours. Check out concert schedules at the websites above.
Enjoy the beach on the far side of the lake, or rent a pontoon and join the crowd at party cove. You can also take advantage of the hike/bike trails.
www.thegranada.com | www.thebottlenecklive.com | www.libertyhall.net
#3 the BARREL HOUSE 785.856-3835
729 New Hampshire | www.thebarrelhouse.com
If you can manage to go here on a night when there's not a bachelorette party you're in for a great night. A dueling piano bar with mixed drinks and an eclectic crowd.
785.749-3222
#5 Winery tastings & tours www.davenportwinery.com | www.bluejacketwinery.com | www.kuglersvineyard.com
All three wineries are located just to the southeast of Lawrence. With over 45 wines between the three, which winery will win your heart?
Honorable Mention: Lawrence Pedal Hopper. a bar, tour and a multi-person bike in one 6
1329 E 800 Road | www.clintonmarina.com
785.856-8687 (TOUR) | www.pedalpub.com
KC Star
fan!
THE OREAD HOTEL 785.843-1200
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1200 Oread Avenue | www.theoread.com
Lawrence’s newest hotel experience, the Oread boasts 360 degree views of Lawrence and KU. Just one block from campus and three blocks from downtown, the Oread was raised inside and out with all-over limestone, each room is designed for comfort with traditional touches and aesthetically pleasing design. The Bird Dog bar is a great place to take in a football game - or head on down to the Lemon Bliss Spa for a massage. The Oread also houses “The Cave” - a huge night club with three bars: the Shot Bar, the Martini Bar and the Wine Bar. Because of this, however, make sure you request a room that is not above the danceclub.
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#2 THE ELDRIdGE HOTEL 785.749-5011
701 Massachusetts Street | www.eldridgehotel.com
Rich in history, the Eldridge hotel was burned down during Quantrill’s Raid on Lawrence. Today it is a traditional hotel with two restaurants and a bar, right in the heart of downtown.
#3 HALCYON HOUSE B&B
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785.841-0314
1000 Ohio Street | www.thehalcyonhouse.com
Perfectly placed between downtown Lawrence and the KU campus, this B&B is anything but typical If you want an extra special stay, request the carriage house - your very own private cottage.
#4 VICTORIAN VERANDA B&B 785. 841-1265
1431 No. 1900 Road | www.vcountryinn.com
Just a little north of downtown, this country B&B has 10 guest rooms and a large wrap-around veranda.
#5 THE ELDRIDGE EXTENDED
the grand entrance
800. 527-0909
201 West 8th Street | www.eldridgehotel.com
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Staying a little longer than usual? The Extended allows for all the comforts of home, with a kitchenette, flat screen TV and quite ambiance.
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LocalTraditions&Favorites End of March through December
Saturdays mid-April through mid-November
785.843-1409 1446
Between 10th & 11th on Vermont Street
Pendleton's Country Market E. 1850 Road
downtown Farmer's Market
End of September through October 31st
Third Full Weekend in October
785.843-2459
In Baldwin City, 12 miles South of Lawrence
Schaake Pumpkin Patch 1791 North 1500 Road
Maple Leaf Festival
www.pendletons.com
www.lawrencefarmersmarket.com
www.schaakespumpkinpatch.com
www.mapleleaffestival.com
A family farm in the country. Pick-yourown vegetables or purchase fresh cut flowers, bedding plants, and housewares.
Head on down for fresh vegetables, flowers, jams, breads, pies - everything a farmer’s market should be.
Pick-your-own pumpkin, enjoy a hayride through the crisp fall air, sip hot apple cider and enjoy the country flair.
Over 150 booths of crafts, artisans, and culinary delights, the MLF has been a local tradition for more than 50 years.
*If you happen to be in lawrence around christmas time, check out the old fashioned christmas parade with horse-drawn carriages. www.lawrencechristmasparade.org
pkin perfect pum picking the 8
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The opinions expressed in this guide are those of several 30-somethings who are in love with Lawrence, KS and all the fun stuff to do here we had to share it with our fellow humans. If your favorites aren’t mentioned in this guide, we sincerely apologize. Š 2011 Lawrence, KS Top 5 City Guide | Illustrated & Designed by Lauren Grieb