It wouldn’t surprise us if this will be the first time you hear about Leavenworth, Kansas. Unless you’re a hardcore Melissa Etheridge fan or a history buff, it might not be on your radar.
But this charming city along the Missouri River offers much more than meets the eye. From a museum spotlighting a favorite carnival ride to walks along the river, it’s a small town with a lot going on.
Join us as we cruise along the streets of Leavenworth to see how it inspired the songwriter.
Let’s go!
What is Leavenworth Known For?
Founded in 1854, Leavenworth is known as the “First City of Kansas.” It was a significant area for people traveling by wagon from the East to the Santa Fe and Oregon Trails in the West.
However, for hundreds of years before this time, numerous Native American tribes resided on the land, including the Kansa, Osage, and Delaware. Today, many streets in Leavenworth carry Indigenous names like Kickapoo, Pawnee, and Pottawatomie.
The 45-block downtown area retains the original planning laid out in 1854. The first two decades after initial construction saw a massive boom in business.
While most building facades changed over time due to tornados, fires, and neglect, you’ll still see glimpses of earlier days. In some cases, reconstructed storefronts and homes retain the original look.
Leavenworth offers plenty of ways to learn about the town if you’re a history buff. Museums and statues throughout the city tell the story of the area’s formative years.
In addition, you’ll find various dining options and retail shops selling locally-made goods. You can quickly fill up a weekend strolling the streets and taking in all that Leavenworth has to show you.
Where Is Leavenworth?
Leavenworth sits on the western bank of the Missouri River, about 25 miles northwest of Kansas City, Missouri. City parks are abundant, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, ball courts, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Additionally, two aquatic centers with indoor pools and a seasonal waterpark provide great options to entertain your family during the day.
The Three Mile Creek shallow stream provides a natural boundary between the business district and the southern residential area. It’s one of four tributaries flowing from the Missouri River that you can see flowing through Leavenworth. In 2009, the city built a half-mile paved walking and bicycle pathway along a portion of the creek.
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Best Things To Do Near Leavenworth, Kansas
Whether you’re looking for museums, restaurants, or a place to buy souvenirs, Leavenworth has it. The town offers unique ways to spend a weekend exploring its historical and cultural background with your family.
Explore the Downtown Shopping District
You could easily spend an entire day strolling Leavenworth’s downtown district. Local families and veterans own many businesses selling everything from hand-crafted jewelry to clothing to candles.
In addition, you’ll have plenty of options when you get hungry or thirsty. Homestyle restaurants, breweries, and a wine-tasting room are all within reach. You’ll get that 4th Street feeling Melissa Etheridge sings about while walking along this stretch of road.
While you’re there: Can You Visit Melissa Etheridge’s 4th Street in Leavenworth?
Visit the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum
If you’re a fan of carousels, you’ll enjoy this entertaining attraction. The museum offers a history of these ornate carnival rides, including the accompanying organs.
You won’t want to leave before taking a spin on a carousel built in 1913, fully restored to its original glory. You can take a self-guided tour of the museum’s exhibits for a small entrance fee. Visiting hours are Saturdays and Sundays only, so plan your visit over a weekend.
Check Out the Richard Allen Cultural Center and Museum
This museum provides a view for you to look into African Americans’ significant role in Leavenworth and nationwide. Sitting across the street from the Bethel AME Church Underground Railroad Site, the center has a collection of fascinating memorabilia.
Leavenworth offers traveling exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs throughout the year. Located at 412 Kiowa Street, the museum is open Monday through Friday and requires a small entrance fee. Allow yourself one to two hours to wander through the various displays.
Best Places to Stay in Leavenworth, Kansas
You’ll want at least a few days to check out the hometown of Melissa Etheridge properly. Here are a few options for places to stay for your trip to Leavenworth.
Riverfront Park Campground
Offering views of the Missouri River, the 13 paved pads at this campground are suitable for tents, small RVs, or trailers. Rigs over 32 feet may have problems crossing the railroad tracks near the entrance.
While trains are common, previous guests mention they’re quick to pass and don’t cause much of an issue.
Each site has 30-Amp electrical hookups and an on-site dump station, and water connections are available for you to use. Nightly rates are less than $20. That’s a great price considering you’ll be steps away from the riverfront.
Weston Firefly Inn
Located across the Missouri/Kansas state line, the Weston Firefly Inn is about a 20-minute drive from Leavenworth. This charming three-room bed and breakfast offers comfort and relaxation throughout your stay. Unwind on the large wrap-around porch while enjoying the complimentary social hour with drinks and snacks.
Enjoy a hot breakfast with coffee, pastries, and hearty dishes like biscuits and gravy or waffles each morning. Weston Firefly Inn is an adult-only accommodation, so it can be perfect for a weekend date with your sweetie. Rooms start at around $200 per night.
Leavenworth Local Hotel
If you’d rather stay in the heart of Leavenworth’s downtown area, this is the spot for you. The building was once a high school built in 1923 and now offers a unique hotel experience.
Amenities include free parking and WiFi, hot coffee anytime, in-room fridges, and a microwave. Choose from a small cozy room or a more extensive suite with a kitchenette. Nightly rates start around $200.
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Is a Road Trip to Leavenworth, Kansas, Worth It?
While Kansas may not be on your bucket list, Leavenworth’s charm and history make it worth a stop if it’s on your route. We can see why Melissa Etheridge wrote a song about her memories of this town. It’s like stepping back to a less stressful time when cruising the main drag with your friends was your favorite activity.
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