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Each visit to Manhattan, Kansas, brings something new. My son Malik is a senior at Kansas State University, so we’ve spent many weekends here. We’ve done the campus tours, the football games, and even axe-throwing. But this time, we slowed down. We leaned into the quieter side of the “Little Apple”—fewer crowds, more quiet corners and conversation. A weekend in Manhattan means something different every time we visit.
Table of Contents
Visit the Museum of Art + Light
Our weekend Manhattan trip wasn’t packed—it was purposeful. We started the day at the Museum of Art + Light, a small but powerful space just off Poyntz Avenue. The space surprised me. It’s modern and airy, full of natural light and clean lines that guide you from one exhibit to the next.
One room glowed with color, light shifting slowly like waves. Another was still and thoughtful, with soft sculptures that made you stop and lean in. I loved how the exhibits created a mood—sometimes peaceful, sometimes unexpected. It’s not a large museum, but it’s one that makes you pause. Every weekend in Manhattan brings a new favorite spot to discover, and now this is one of them.
Address: 316 Pierre St, Manhattan, KS 66502
Sip and Browse at The Dusty Bookshelf
There’s no right way to do a Manhattan weekend—without one coffee shop. This time we walked to The Dusty Bookshelf, a cozy independent bookstore and cafe near Aggieville. You’ll smell the coffee before you see the shelves. It’s warm and inviting—worn wood floors, mismatched chairs, handwritten signs, and stacks of gently used books everywhere.
I ordered a honey lavender lemonade and found a seat by the window overlooking Little Moro Street. The sunlight poured in and warmed the table. Outside, students passed by in waves—some rushing, some lingering.
Malik browsed the shelves while I sipped and watched the sidewalk scenes unfold. Inside, pages rustled and quiet laughter floated between tables. A dog slept under a nearby chair. I could have stayed for hours.
Address: 700 N Manhattan Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502
Shop at Grand Ol’ Trunk
We walked next to Grand Il’ Trunk, an unassuming building on Pillsbury Dr just beyond the city limits. I love places like this—where you never know what you’ll find but always leave with something.
The shop smelled of candles and cedarwood. The displays were eclectic: statement jewelry, vintage clothing, household decor, ceramic bowls and cast iron skillets.
I picked up a crystal heart-shaped paperweight and a set of lithographs by a local artist. Malik found a soft hoodie with a design that looked straight out of SoHo. It’s the kind of place you have to dig through—but if you do, you’ll find something worth keeping. Mark, the manager and a 23-year Army veteran, knocked half off our purchases.
Address: 1304 Pillsbury Dr, Manhattan, KS 66502
Escape Room Rematch at Locked Manhattan
Later that evening, we returned for our Escape Room Rematch at Locked Manhattan, a highlight of our weekend in Manhattan.. We picked a new challenge with a science fiction theme and were determined to win.
This time, we didn’t escape—but we were close. Just a couple of clues stood between us and the final door. Malik stayed calm under pressure, and I managed to crack one of the tougher puzzles. Still, the clock ran out before we made it through.
We’ll probably try again on our next visit. Neither of us likes to lose, and we’re both convinced we can beat it with one more shot.
Address: 116 S 4th St #122a, Manhattan, KS 66502
Bubble Tea, Thai Food, and a Sweet Ending
It reached 100 degrees on Friday. The kind of heat that makes you rethink all your plans. I stopped by Pandora Rolled Ice Cream twice—once in the afternoon and again after dinner—for their bubble tea. It was cold, creamy, and exactly what I needed to cool down.
I had planned to eat at Mongolian Grill, but as soon as I walked in, I remembered why I don’t love buffets or eating in the mall. We ended up at Baan Thai, a spot we used to visit all the time when we lived in Manhattan. It hasn’t changed, and I’m glad. If you go, order the khao soi with chicken. The broth is rich, the noodles are tender, and it’s full of flavor without being heavy.
We ended the night at Cold Stone Creamery. Even with the bubble tea earlier, I still wanted something sweet. That first bite of ice cream on a hot night—it’s a small joy I’ll never get tired of.
Where We Stayed
We stayed again at the Courtyard Manhattan Aggieville, our usual home base in Manhattan. It’s clean, quiet, and within walking distance of Aggieville. Parking is easy, and the staff always greet us like like family.
715 N 12th St, Manhattan, KS 66502
Final Thoughts
Manhattan is a small town with a big college presence. There’s no right way to spend a weekend in Manhattan. There are plenty of restaurants—mostly Mexican—but if you’re not coming for the food, it can feel like there’s not much else. Once you’ve seen the campus, the shops, and the trails, the rest can feel underwhelming. You have to expand your idea of fun.
We come for Malik. He’s out there in Kansas on his own. It’s not really about what we do—it’s that we’re doing it with him. Sometimes we walk through campus or wander downtown. Sometimes we just sit in the window of a bookstore in Aggieville and people-watch over bubble tea. It doesn’t have to be big or exciting. It just has to be together. When we’re with him, the town falls into place. He’s the reason.
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