We hope you’ve packed your appetite. This month, we’re finishing our Hit the Road series with a foodie foray into Lawrence, KS. Whether you’re interested in taking a tour of Mass Street or trying the deconstructed lasagne at The Basil Leaf Cafe, this driving-distance destination is every foodie’s dream.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~40 minutes from downtown
Est. population: 97,348
Avg. high in August: 90°

Memorable restaurants

The Basil Leaf Café

This cozy Italian restaurant at 8th + Mass streets was listed as the best Italian restaurant and the best restaurant for pasta in Kansas.

715

The self-described European-style neighborhood restaurant comes highly recommended — we definitely suggest trying a Lavender Cream Soda alongside your meal.

Merchants Pub & Plate

With a menu full of delicious, beautiful, and locally sourced food, there’s no better way to enjoy the “come as you are” atmosphere.

Sylas and Maddy’s Homemade Ice Cream

Known for its creative flavors (yes, there’s a KU ice cream), this family-owned and operated business has been a staple in Lawrence since 1997.

Heading into a food coma, be back later. | Photo by @715restaurant

Eat, sleep, repeat

The Oread

Who wouldn’t want to wine, dine, and doze in what’s essentially a castle in downtown Lawrence? The Oread comes outfitted with an upscale restaurant, a bar, and a rooftop lounge.

Historic Eldridge Hotel

Come for the steak, seafood, and pasta at the Eldridge House Grill — stay for the ghost stories + history (including a run-in with Bonnie and Clyde).

Spacious, Artsy, Historic Downtown Home

Walking off the calories won’t be a factor with this rental, which is just off Mass Street. It’s a party at this spacious home, which sleeps six and starts at $202 per night.

Trendy 2BD

Feed your interior designer after you feed your belly. This stylish downtown rental sleeps up to five and starts at $128 per night.

Things to do

Clinton State Park

Twenty-five miles of hiking + biking trail, 378 campsites, disc golf, and water access make this lake park a must-visit getaway. Perfect for a picnic.

The University of Kansas Natural History Museum

Need a break from the food? Get wild with four floors of nature exhibits. Camps, school programs, and scavenger hunts make this destination a great way to spend the day with the whole family.

Brits

Experience Great Britain in the Midwest, including everything from tea + snacks to home goods.

Wonderfair

Shop all things whimsical and support local artists, but also make sure to pet Dave the Cat on your way out.

Museum of Odd

This private residence is filled with bizarre collections, like 350+ sock monkeys and Elvis Presley artifacts. Visit by making an appointment on Facebook or by phone.

Hungry for more? Catch up on the last two months’ Hit the Road features: an outdoor adventure to Bentonville, AR and a quick getaway to Weston, MO.