Especially if you’re a history buff, Leavenworth, Kansas needs to be on your radar. Known as the First City of Kansas, Leavenworth was established in 1854 and served as the starting point for a lot of the country’s westward expansion.
Due to its strategic location along the Missouri River, Leavenworth was a bustling hub not only for the military but also many trade industries. Today, you can still see the impacts of that history through places like Fort Leavenworth, the Carroll Mansion and downtown business corridor.
Whether you’re exploring the greater Kansas City area or traveling along the Kansas I-70 corridor, you’ll find plenty of offbeat things to do in Leavenworth, Kansas. Keep reading to find unique things to do, great places to eat and drink, and recommendations for where to stay during your visit.
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the Kansas I-70 Association. However, all opinions are my own.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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Offbeat Things to Do in Leavenworth, Kansas
Experience Fort Leavenworth
Whether you have a particular interest in military history or not, your time in Kansas’ First City wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fort Leavenworth. Not only is Fort Leavenworth an interesting place to learn about the area’s early history, but it’s also the oldest active fort west of the Appalachian Mountains. That means that it’s still an active military site where more than 7,500 people, including about 3,700 active-duty personnel live and work.
During your visit, don’t miss a stop at the Buffalo Soldier monument, which pays tribute to the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments of the U.S. Army that helped protect settlers and support westward expansion. These regiments made up of black cavalry soldiers didn’t receive recognition for their contributions to important missions and expansion until decades later.
The Frontier Army Museum is another great stop, particularly if you’re interested in learning more about the fort’s history as well as the Frontier Army that was active between 1804 and 1916. Then head to the Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, which is one of the first 12 national cemeteries established in 1862 by President Abraham Lincoln.
Travel Tip: In order to enter Fort Leavenworth, you are required to show a REAL ID form of identification. Visitors must also register for a pass in order to gain entry to the fort. For all of the information you need regarding access, visit the Fort Leavenworth website.
Fort Leavenworth Visitor Control Center, 1 Sherman Avenue (at the intersection of Metropolitan & 4th Streets) in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
Shop Around Downtown
You’ll find lots of unique local shops around downtown Leavenworth. Whether you’re interested in board games, antiques or just need to pick up some home supplies, the city’s small business community has got you covered.
Gators Games and Hobby
Calling all board game enthusiasts: You won’t want to miss a trip to Gators Games and Hobby. This local shop is full of games for all ages and skill levels as well as all sorts of other nerdy accessories. Plus, they also host events and game nights where you can play with other interested locals.
I first visited Gators a few years ago while exploring KC Destinations’ Quirky Trip and it’s become a favorite stop whenever I’m in the area.
Gators Games and Hobby, 720 Shawnee Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Kansas Country Store
You’ll find so much more than just farm supplies at the Kansas Country Store. While you can pick up feed and supplies for livestock of all sizes here, you’ll also discover a great selection of boots, unique gifts and home decor. Plus, they also sell homemade fudge and other types of giftable food items.
Kansas Country Store, 728 Cherokee Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Leavenworth Antique Mall
Get ready to do some serious treasure hunting at the Leavenworth Antique Mall. Located in a historic 1870s building in the heart of downtown Leavenworth, this local antique mall features 90 vendors across 10,000 square feet of space to shop.
No matter what type of antique sparks your interest, you’re sure to find something here. And don’t forget to say hi to the antique mall’s resident “guard” cats, Marigold and Seymour!
Leavenworth Antique Mall, 505 Delaware Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Reunions Antiques
For a curated antique experience, head up the street to Reunions Antiques. Not only does this shop sell a variety of traditional antique pieces, you’ll also find larger items like vintage furniture and art here.
Reunions Antiques, 414 Delaware Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Tour Carroll Mansion
Step back in time with a tour of Leavenworth’s historic Carroll Mansion. This 16-room Queen Anne Victorian home now serves as the home of the Leavenworth County Historical Society.
What began in 1858 as a four-room farmhouse was transformed into a stately home with beautifully detailed features by various influential Leavenworth owners over the centuries. Take a guided tour of the home to learn more about some of the community’s early families and how they helped Leavenworth grow into the city it is today.
The museum is also home to the Mary E. Everhard Glass Negative Collection, which includes more than 40,000 glass negatives documenting early Kansas history. Today, many of those historic images have been digitized and preserved for generations to come.
In addition to the Carroll Mansion, the Leavenworth County Historical Society manages a number of other area museums, including the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, National Fred Harvey Museum and more.
Leavenworth County Historical Society, 1128 5th Avenue in Leavenworth, Kansas
Find Inspiration in Public Art
Wandering around downtown Leavenworth is a treat for public art lovers. Not only will you find ample colorful murals and unexpected art installations but you’ll also get a glimpse into the city’s early pioneer history.
Pay Tribute to Melissa Etheridge
Did you know that Leavenworth is also the hometown of singer and songwriter Melissa Etheridge? In fact, if you listen to her lyrics, you might recognize a few names and landmarks as you explore Leavenworth. If you’re short on time, a stop at Ray Miller Park to see the Hometown Pride sign dedicated to Etheridge is an easy photo op.
And, if you want a full tour of all the spots that made an impact on Etheridge over the years, check out Leavenworth’s Hometown Tour map.
Hometown Proud Signs, Ray Miller Park, 4103 S. 4th Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Discover Offbeat Gems Along I-70
Driving along the Kansas I-70 corridor? There are plenty of places worth pulling over along the way! Discover unexpected museums, roadside attractions, epic eateries, unique places to stay and so much more.
Unique Places to Eat & Drink in Leavenworth, Kansas
Ava’s Island Café
While you’re in Leavenworth, don’t miss out on the opportunity to eat some seriously delicious Jamaican food at Ava’s Island Café. This local eatery serves Caribbean specialties like ackee and salt fish, oxtail and jerk chicken alongside beef patties and plantains.
Pro Tip: Order the In-house Ginger Lemonade to go along with your meal. This refreshing beverage offers the perfect blend of sweetness and spice to accompany your meal. Ava’s Island Café also makes their own Sorrel, a popular Jamaican-style iced tea.
Ava’s Island Café, 732 Shawnee Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Harbor Lights Coffee
Start your day with a cup of coffee and a sweet treat from Harbor Lights Coffee. While this cafe serves a delicious array of pastries, Harbor Lights is most well-known for its cheesecakes and pies. Even if you aren’t in the mood for a sweet start to your day, this cozy coffeeshop is absolutely worth a visit.
Harbor Lights Coffee, 316 Shawnee Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
The Suburban
If you’re looking for a great spot to grab a casual bite to eat, head to The Suburban. As the name implies, this popular local eatery is west of downtown Leavenworth in a mostly residential area.
That said, The Suburban is absolutely worth the short drive west. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger and fries or a premium filet, this curated menu is sure to please. While The Suburban offers some more elevated entrees, its ambiance and approach makes it solidly unstuffy. Frankly, I’m delighted whenever I find deviled eggs on a restaurant menu in the Midwest, and the ones at The Suburban didn’t disappoint. If you’re looking to enjoy an appetizer dinner, the restaurant also serves a great cheese and charcuterie board.
Plus, if you’re visiting during the warmer months, The Suburban has a fantastic patio filled with lush greenery, water features and enough space between tables that you’ll feel like you’re dining in your own garden oasis.
The Suburban, 402 S. 20th Street in Leavenworth, Kansas
Where to Stay in Leavenworth, Kansas
Whether you’re visiting Fort Leavenworth or exploring the Kansas City metro area, Leavenworth is a convenient spot to stay with a variety of options, from hotels to short-term vacation rentals.
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