Derby, Kansas
A Spectacular Weekend Getaway in Derby, Kansas
Welcome to Derby, Kansas, a charming city located in Sedgwick County! Known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Derby offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and mouthwatering culinary experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, this three-day itinerary will ensure you have an unforgettable weekend trip with your friends. So, let’s dive right into the exciting adventures waiting for you in Derby!
Day 1: Exploring Nature’s Wonders
Morning: Start with Breakfast at The Kitchen
Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at The Kitchen, a local favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and scrumptious homemade dishes. Indulge in their mouthwatering bacon and egg breakfast burrito or fuel up with their classic eggs benedict.
After breakfast, head to Rock River Rapids
Get ready to make a splash at Rock River Rapids, Derby’s premier water park. With thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas, this family-friendly attraction promises a day full of laughter and excitement. Don’t forget to relax in the lazy river and soak up some sun in the expansive sunbathing area.
Lunch: Grab a Bite at Chick N Max
After working up an appetite, satisfy your cravings with a visit to Chick N Max. Try their famous Max’s Tenders, hand-breaded and served with a variety of tasty sauces. From classic fried chicken to flavorful sandwiches, Chick N Max is guaranteed to please your taste buds.
Afternoon: Enjoy the Great Outdoors at Derby Arboretum and Park
Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Derby Arboretum and Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of the city. This beautifully maintained park offers lush greenery, walking trails, and scenic views. Take some time to relax, have a picnic, or play a game of frisbee with your friends.
Dinner: Savor Local Flavors at The Derby Inn
For a taste of traditional Kansas cuisine, head to The Derby Inn. This charming restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its delectable menu. Treat yourself to their signature dish, the Kansas City strip steak, or try their mouthwatering barbecue ribs. End your meal with a slice of their homemade pie for a truly satisfying dining experience.
Day 2: Immersion in History and Culture
Morning: Breakfast at The Copper Oven Café
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Copper Oven Café. Known for its cozy ambiance and friendly staff, this local gem offers a variety of breakfast options. Don’t miss their fluffy pancakes drizzled with real maple syrup or their savory breakfast sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients.
Explore Kansas Aviation Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich aviation history of Kansas at the Kansas Aviation Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored historic airport terminal building, this museum showcases a remarkable collection of aircraft, exhibits, and artifacts. Discover the contributions of Kansans to aviation and learn about the evolution of flight through interactive displays and engaging presentations.
Lunch: Unwind at Tacos Lopez
Indulge in a quick and delicious lunch at Tacos Lopez, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine. From mouthwatering street tacos to flavorful burritos, their menu offers a wide range of options to satisfy your cravings. Grab a seat on their outdoor patio and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while relishing every bite.
Afternoon: Delve into Local History at The Derby Historical Museum
To further immerse yourself in Derby’s heritage, visit The Derby Historical Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored train depot, this museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Derby’s early days. Gain insight into the city’s history, from the railroad’s impact to the founding of Derby, and discover the impressive growth and development over the years.
Dinner: Taste Exquisite Italian Cuisine at Bella Vita Bistro
Indulge in a sophisticated dining experience at Bella Vita Bistro, an elegant Italian restaurant in Derby. With its charming interior and warm ambiance, Bella Vita Bistro offers a delightful setting for an intimate dinner. Savor their signature dishes like homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable tiramisu. Pair your meal with a fine wine from their extensive collection for a truly memorable evening.
Day 3: Foodie Delights and Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Brunch at Eggs & I
Kickstart your day with a leisurely brunch at Eggs & I, a popular breakfast spot in Derby. From fluffy omelets to delicious pancakes, their menu offers a wide range of breakfast and brunch options. Don’t miss their mouthwatering Eggs Benedict variations, such as the classic Florentine or the indulgent Crab Cake Benedict.
Visit Wildcat Park
Explore the great outdoors at Wildcat Park, a picturesque nature preserve nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River. This serene park offers scenic trails, beautiful picnic spots, and abundant wildlife. Take a leisurely hike, spot birds along the river, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Lunch: Delectable BBQ at Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q
No visit to Kansas is complete without savoring some authentic barbecue. Head to Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q and feast on their mouthwatering smoked meats, including tender ribs, flavorful pulled pork, and juicy brisket. Their delectable selection of homemade sauces perfectly complements the smoky flavors. Enjoy your meal at their outdoor patio or grab a picnic table in the shade.
Afternoon: Discover Derby Water Park
Cool off and enjoy some water fun at Derby Water Park. This family-friendly attraction features water slides, a lazy river, and a splash playground, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. Soak up the sun by lounging poolside or brave the thrilling water slides for an adrenaline rush.
Farewell Dinner: Celebrate with a Feast at A.J’s Sports Grill
End your weekend getaway on a high note with a celebratory dinner at A.J’s Sports Grill. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, mouthwatering food, and a wide selection of craft beers on tap, A.J’s is the perfect place to unwind and relish delicious American fare. From juicy burgers to zesty wings, their menu offers something for everyone. Indulge in their famous “Derby Dog” loaded with toppings, or try their crowd-pleasing BBQ pulled pork nachos.
As your weekend trip comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the wonderful memories created with your friends in Derby, Kansas. With its blend of nature, history, and culinary delights, Derby offers a little something for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on this exciting adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime!