5 Things to Do Around Fort Riley, Kansas
by Candace Guelzo - March 22nd, 2022
So, you’re being sent to Kansas? Well, then let me be the first to tell you - “Kansas, it’s not that bad!” It's a phrase you’ll see on pillows, wall hangings, and even painted on the side of buildings.
But, no, really, it’s not that bad. Take a look at these 5 gems you’ll need to check out once you get to Fort Riley, and get yourself excited for Saturday morning adventures.
Things to do near Fort Riley on a Saturday
If you exit the Henry Gate of Fort Riley and head north for 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself in the well-loved city of Manhattan, the “Little Apple,” home of the K-State Wildcats and the Aggieville shopping and bar district.
5. Early Edition Restaurant – Manhattan, Kansas
Our first stop is located in Manhattan. Start your day with brunch at the Early Edition Restaurant. A cozy atmosphere and Belgian waffles you won’t be able to resist make for a family-friendly restaurant that you’ll look forward to returning to. They offer a full menu all day that ranges from “Cake for Breakfast” for the littles to a “Southwest Chicken” skillet, all with reasonable prices and generously sized portions.
4. Vintage Round Up – Manhattan, Kansas
Number four, also located in Manhattan, is Vintage Round Up. This absolute delight of an antique shop will keep you coming back to see what new discoveries are in store weekly. The “Little Yellow House” is open Thursday through Saturday and full of eye-catching vintage finds. In this cozy little shop, you will find an ever-changing inventory complete with a selection of retro, industrial, mid-century, industrial, and farm fresh finds, all at extremely reasonable prices.
3. Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum – Abilene, Kansas
When departing from Fort Riley, if you head west on I-70, you’ll find yourself in Abilene. It's a town that is full of history, including the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum. The grounds of the library and museum are not only the boyhood home of Eisenhower, but also the final resting place of himself and his wife Mamie – the “Place of Meditation.” Admission is free for military families of up to five during the summer season-- from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day--because this national archive site participates in the Blue Star Museum Program. I would suggest planning ample time to walk around the grounds and take your time in the museum, and don’t forget to stop in the gift shop on the way out!
2. OZ Museum – Wamego, Kansas
Ironically, “there is no place like home” unless you head 40 minutes east to Wamego, Kansas. There, you can walk the Yellow Brick Road to the OZ Museum. The museum itself has exhibits and artifacts that are exclusive to the museum, including first editions of Frank Baum’s books and merchandise, including ruby slippers. They also have probs from the Broadway musical, Wicked. There are plenty of photo opportunities within the museum itself, and the environment will charm children. The museum offers military discounts for both adults and children, while those under 2 are free.
Also, directly next door to the museum is the OZ Winery, where you can find wine and gifts inspired by The Wonderful Wizard of OZ book!
1. Robby’s Famous Cheesecakes – Junction City, Kansas
The one thing that comes most highly recommended is a quick trip to get a slice (or 12) from Robby’s Famous Cheesecakes in Junction City. There are flavors for everyone, from fruity-pebble, to red velvet, or a classic plain. They also give back to the community, so you can feel good about getting an extra cheesecake to go! They always offer 20% off to military and first responders and free coffee. (Hint-Hint) they are opening a second location in Manhattan!
Bonus! World War I Museum – Kansas City, Missouri
If you are feeling up to a drive, the World War I Museum in Kansas City is phenomenal and well worth the trip. Even with little ones, both in the stroller stage, my family had a lovely time walking through the extraordinary displays and overlooking the poppy field they have installed under a glass walkway. There are main permanent exhibits and rotating exhibitions making for an ever-changing experience. The life-size trenches, tanks, and even the replica of a destroyed French farmhouse that resulted in a crater, will leave you with a sense of understanding and new-found patriotism. Admission can be bought online in advance and there are discounts for active-duty military and veterans.
So if you have orders to Fort Riley, and are wondering what to do on the weekends, then we have your first few months of weekends planned out for you! I hope you enjoy your time exploring Kansas.
Candace Guelzo is an Army Spouse of 10 years and mother to three small children. She spends her time reading, painting, homeschooling her children, and chasing around her two corgis. Candace has a passion for volunteering and advocating for military spouse mental health. She works with Ohana Homefront Foundation as the Counseling Manager, where she works to support the mental health of the military community. Connect with Candace on LinkedIn.
