The Many Gems of Leavenworth, Kansas

Over the 18 years I’ve been a military brat, my family’s been stationed at Fort Leavenworth for about nine years (over three different times). Most recently, when we were told we’d be going back to Kansas, I was upset. Kansas… ugh. What’s there to like about Kansas? 

Well, as I’ve found out, there’s a lot to like about Kansas. Even in the small town of Leavenworth, which I can drive across in no more than 15 minutes, I have found an extensive amount of joy. 

1. Signature Cafes 

Downtown Leavenworth is home to three wonderful places to study, buy unique drinks, and have a yummy bite to eat. Harbor Lights has specialty coffee drinks, meals, and more. It caters more towards the older demographic in Leavenworth, but my sister and I have spent much time there. First City Soda is a recently opened “old-America” style soda shop, and through the sodas, ice creams, seasonal drinks, tasty tidbits, and more, it’s a perfect place to hang out with friends. Burr Roasters Cafe is veteran(!)-owned and operated, offering drinks made from their exclusive coffee roast with a side of freshly baked treats. 

2. Popcorn Pitstop

Just outside the main gate of Fort Leavenworth is a little popcorn and candy shop. This local small-business boasts unique – and delicious! – flavors of popcorn (from cinnamon to blue raspberry), as well all sorts of odd candy. Does anyone fancy a scorpion lollypop? 

3. Bling Equals Dreams Boutique

If you’re an earring aficionado like me, then this is the place to go. I’ve purchased multiple crafted earrings that are high-school-dance-worthy, and… they’re only $5! And don't worry, there are gorgeous necklaces, bracelets, and rings, too – all of it unique. Some pieces feature rubber duckies, dice, mushrooms… you name it!

4. Asian Cuisine

Do you want Japanese? Korean? Thai? Chinese? Leavenworth has it all! One of my sister’s absolute favorite restaurants is Saint Sushi and Sake. This locally-owned Japanese restaurant is a master in their craft of sushi, and they even have options for picky eaters (me). Leavenworth is also home to Hyundai, which offers great Korean dishes and appetizers, plus it’s connected to a small Asian market. In addition, Leavenworth boasts Ba’an Thai – authentic and delicious – and King House, which is open solely for Chinese food takeout and delivery. 

5. Sis’ Sweets

If you have a sweet tooth, then you’ve found your new favorite place. Immediately upon entering, the smell of cookie dough is mouth-watering. Display cases show off dozens of freshly made cookies, brownies, and pastries of all sizes and flavors. Visiting this store has been a staple of my family’s Leavenworth experience. If you time your visit right, they even have a day-old case full of discounted treats and bags of yumminess, including the edges from a pan of brownies that are perfect for a quick snack.

6. The Riverwalk

Leavenworth sits on the Missouri River, the main feature of the Riverwalk. The natural beauty is obvious, and dozens of groups always crowd the area for Homecoming and Prom photos. I’ve visited the Riverwalk many times for that reason, but to also just sit with the people I love. There’s something soothing about watching the river rush by, and conversations always flow as naturally as the water. 

7. Sonic 

I’m not complaining that the small town of Leavenworth decided it needed to have not one but TWO Sonics. One is conveniently located close to post. But… the more popular location features a volleyball pit and playground, which I’m positive gets enjoyed by the teenage population just as much as by the little kid population. 

8. Haymarket Square

This pavilion is home to much entertainment, from weekly Wednesday afternoon and Saturday morning farmers markets to a Christmas festival, both of which bring in local small-businesses. The pavilion is also a great place to view all three of Leavenworth’s annual parades (yes, three!). Leavenworth boasts the largest Veteran’s Day parade west of the Mississippi, and it puts on Christmas and Saint Patrick’s Day parades. 

9. Food Options… But Train-Themed 

A quick search of Leavenworth’s history will tell you that by the 1800s, this town was a busy hub with multiple railroads passing through it. Our community center is an old railroad station… and so is The Depot, a restaurant known for its hearty and delicious breakfasts and lunches, featuring food items from pancakes to chicken and waffles to chorizo to burgers. Pullman Place is another train-themed restaurant, featuring similar meals. My favorites are their French Toast and the Triple-Decker BLT. 

10. There’s something for everyone!

If you love pub nachos, pay a visit to Bailey’s Irish Pub! If you like to shop for antiques, there’s a whole Antique Mall. If you need gluten-free food options, Tampico Mexican Restaurant and Ten Penny Sports Bar and Grill are great! We have a Military Surplus Store, many arts and crafts stores, music stores, a prom dress shop, an escape room, and more. 

Arts and Crafts – First City Creatives and Momo’s Knitting Nook

Music Stores – Urban Music – locally owned store with great instruments to buy and repair services, and The Tune Shop great place to rent instruments and take lessons

Monarch Formal – similar to ODYD, but for everyone

The Escape Game – after completing an escape room, you also get an exclusive tour of a historic speakeasy, grocery store, and more rooms under downtown Leavenworth!

So… if you’re at Fort Leavenworth right now or will be here soon, don’t be discouraged about living in a “fly-over state” or “small town America.” There is so much to do and/or visit within Leavenworth, and it’s all within about 15 minutes of post.