Manhattan is a great destination for a quick couples getaway! To really enjoy that kid free time, be sure to take the scenic route (exit 316 if you’re traveling on I-70). The views are beautiful and you will not hear any “are we there yets” coming from the backseat.
Aggieville
Aggieville is located in the heart of Manhattan and close to the KSU campus. There are so many cute and unique boutiques and shops to visit. We had to stop by what used to be the old bookstore to pick up some updated K-State shirts. It’s Rally House now but since it’s in Manhattan, there is a bigger selection of purple to choose from.
If you need to grab a drink there are plenty of places along the main stretch of Aggieville to quench your thirst. Stopping by Auntie Mae’s is a must. It’s a bar set in a 1930 speakeasy basement. The atmosphere is a whole experience that sets it apart from the other bars. They serve special cocktails that are fun and delicious. Order what they call the tarantula if you love a fruity drink that doesn’t taste too strong!
Where to Eat
Lots of yummy places to eat in Manhattan! Pro tip: Make a reservation or arrive as early as possible or expect to wait a while for a table. The best part about this being a couples getaway is that you can wait for an hour without hearing kids getting impatient and hangry.
For breakfast, The Chef Cafe boasts a large menu with plenty of variety. I recommend the Florentine Frittata and their housemade granola and yogurt. Varsity Donuts and Radina’s Coffeehouse are two other highly rated breakfast spots.
For dinner, don’t miss Bourbon & Baker, So Long Saloon, and Bluestem Bistro!
Where to Stay
There are lots of chain hotels in Lawrence, but if you’re looking for something with a little more character, consider booking one of these:
- Bluemont Hotel
- Hilton Garden Inn
- Courtyard by Marriott Manhattan
- Anderson Bed & Breakfast
- Moore House Bed & Breakfast
Things to Do in Manhattan
- Sunset Zoo
- Tuttle Creek State Park
- Kansas State University Gardens
- Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art
- Liquid Art Winery & Estate – This hidden gem is nestled on hill along Wildcat Creek Road. The views were breathtaking and something I would never have expected to see in Kansas. This full-production winery (and event center!) offers a large variety of craft ciders and wines available to try.
