Visiting Manhattan
Whenever friends visit me from out of town, there are a few places I always take them to give them a feel for what Manhattan is all about. Here are some of my recommendations of quintessential Manhattan activities when you’re visiting for graduation, or whatever brings you to the Little Apple.
First of all, the K-State campus has some great attractions that are definitely worth a visit! The Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art has traveling exhibits and hosts regular events. The Kansas State University Gardens on Denison Avenue are always worth taking a walk through and enjoying, especially in the spring.
As a student, Aggieville has everything I need: coffee, books, food and, of course, night life! There are two locally-owned coffee shops in Aggieville, Bluestem Bistro and Radina’s. Bluestem has a bustling and fun atmosphere and a large variety of food and beverages. Radina’s is where I like to go to study, but it’s also great for meeting socially. They have lunch options as well as great coffee, and there is always some sort of local artwork on the walls.
Aggieville is home to Varney’s, which provides students with textbooks, art supplies and K-State apparel and gifts. The Dusty Bookshelf is a used bookstore with tons of variety and at least two friendly cats who can be found napping in the window ledges.
Since Aggieville is adjacent to campus, it’s no surprise what food options you’ll find there: Chipotle, Jimmy John’s and Pita Pit, which obviously are great options; but there are also several unique and local restaurants. Rock-A-Belly Deli has great sandwiches and a fun atmosphere, and So Long Saloon has some of the best burgers in town. Varsity Donuts is a must-visit if you’re a fan of donuts, board games and biking (I promise, they make it work).
Last but not least, Aggieville is known for having a TON of bars and nightlife. Each bar has a different atmosphere. The best part is, they are all right next to each other so it isn’t hard to visit them all until you find your favorite! Several of the bars offer live music every weekend as well.
There are a few other places I think a visitor to Manhattan cannot pass up.
Number one is the Konza Prairie, especially if you don’t live near the Flint Hills. Konza is where I take friends to prove to them that Kansas is not completely flat! About a 20-minute drive out of town, Konza offers several different trail options. I love to bring a snack and have a picnic once I get to the highest point of the trail. It’s a breathtaking view that’s definitely worth the hike.
If you have kids, or even if you don’t, the Sunset Zoo is definitely worth a visit, as well as the Flint Hills Discovery Center: a new multimedia, interactive museum where people of all ages can learn about and explore the unique ecology and culture of the Flint Hills.
Poyntz Avenue is also an area you may want to check out. It’s the main drag of Manhattan, and at the end of the street is Manhattan Town Center, the mall. Along Poyntz is the Strecker-Nelson Art Gallery, which displays local art, as well as tons of great shopping! There are women’s clothing boutiques, jewelry stores, outdoor equipment shops and interior décor shops. There are also some upscale dining opportunities, like Four Olives or Harry’s, as well as The Chef, a breakfast restaurant on Fourth Street.
As far as lodging, Manhattan offers many hotel options downtown. Most visitors to campus stay at the Holiday Inn on Anderson Avenue, right across the street from the Student Union. Other lodging options are available at the Manhattan Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Have fun and enjoy your time in the Little Apple!
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