Baldwin visit CITY, KS
ARTS & CULTURE • SHOPPING • EXPERIENCE
THE DOCTOR WILL SEE YOU NOW. AND YOUR WHOLE FAMILY.
One medical home.
Primary care is different here. Not only are our doctors board-certified, they also truly know you and your family. It’s how we make your medical care feel more like home –and what you can expect from your community hospital. Doctors right here with you.
Dr. Bonnie Cramer during the Stuffy Clinic at the Baldwin City Library
Baldwin visit CITY, KS
Publisher/Design: Jenni Fish
Photo Editor: Keara Torkelson
Copy Editors: Monica Brovont, Kayla Kohn, Lynn Meador
Photography: Kayla Kohn Photography, Dana Mullis, Dr. Frank Pérez, Kiel Peterson, Pitts Photography, Bob Thompson, Keara Torkelson, Meagan Young
Section Writers: Jeannette Blackmar, Jessica Davis, Marta Jardon, Dana Mullis, Sydney Roller
About the Grant:
The Visit Baldwin City, KS tourism guide was funded in part by the Kansas Department of Commerce Marketing Grant. This grant program supports first-time marketing projects that promote tourism across the state of Kansas. Funding from Kansas Tourism makes it possible for communities like Baldwin City to launch new initiatives that showcase local attractions and invite visitors to experience all our community has to offer.
Photograph: Dr. Frank Pérez
Community Partners:
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Get to Know
Baldwin city
Baldwin City’s own “Tractor Don” gives Rainbow Preschool students a ride downtown to the Ice Cream House for their end-of-summer celebration.
Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Kansas, Baldwin City
is where small-town charm meets vibrant energy.
Known for its rich history as a key stop along the Santa Fe Trail and home to Baker University—the oldest private university in Kansas—Baldwin City takes pride in its past while embracing the future. You’ll find a community that warmly welcomes visitors and neighbors alike. From festivals and farmers markets to cozy shops and locally-owned eateries, there’s always something happening.
Baldwin City also boasts a thriving arts scene with galleries, live music, theatre, and workshops at the Lumberyard Arts Center. Public murals, quilt shop hops, and seasonal events add color throughout the community. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a scenic drive, or looking to call Baldwin City home, you’ll find plenty to explore and friendly faces along the way.
Population: 4,826
Median Age: 29.9 years
Median Rent: $1,020
RESOURCES IN BALDWIN CITY
Always dial 911 in an emergency
City Hall
785-594-6427
803 8th St.
Public Works
785-594-6907
Police Dept. 785-594-3850
Fire Dept./EMT 785-594-3678
Municipal Court 785-594-6821
Baldwin City Library 785-594-3411
Baldwin City Recreation Commission 785-594-3670
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce 785-594-3200
WHERE TO STAY
Rest Easy in Baldwin City
BAKER COTTAGE
Entire Home
7 guests; 3 bedrooms; 5 beds; 2 baths
Booking Platform: Airbnb
Special Amenities: Outdoor back porch, fenced in backyard, pet friendly
Why Stay Here? Stay just steps away from local restaurants, coffee shops, and gas stations. This comfortable rental offers convenience, charm, and peace of mind in a great location.
BALDWIN HOUSE WITH THE PEACH FLOOR
Entire Home
10 guests; 5 bedrooms; 7 beds; 2.5 baths
Booking Platform: Airbnb
Special Amenities: Victorian BoHo flair, large seating area, outdoor porch
Why Stay Here? The Baldwin House with the Peach Floor is a Victorian house built in 1907. The house has been well maintained and still sports original, beautiful woodwork, radiator heating, and a fabulous sleeping porch.
COZY BALDWIN CITY APARTMENT
Apartment
5 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 2 baths
Booking Platform: Airbnb
Special Amenities: Full kitchen and laundry
Why Stay Here? Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood, this apartment is perfect for a private and memorable stay.
MAPLE LEAF COTTAGE
Entire Home
8 guests; 3 bedrooms; 5 beds; 3 baths
Booking Platform: Airbnb
Special Amenities: Two comfy living room spaces, baby friendly
Why Stay Here? Nestled in close proximity to Baker University, this cozy home provides a comfortable and convenient stay for visitors seeking to explore all that this enchanting community has to offer.
ROOMS2STAY
3 Room Choices
3 individual bedrooms; 1 bath
Booking Platform: rms2stay.com
Special Amenities: Bed & breakfast, fenced in backyard
Why Stay Here?
Experience the comfort of rooms2stay, a B&B within walking distance of beautiful downtown Baldwin City. Enjoy hotel-style amenities, personal greetings, and thoughtful extras that make every stay unique and welcoming.
Keara Torkelson
Photography:
Jeannette Blackmar
Lumberyard Arts Center, Exec. Director
Jeannette Blackmar is the Executive Director of the Lumberyard Arts Center. As a 25-year Baldwin City resident, she champions community-building through the arts and celebrates the town’s collaborative, creative spirit.
Marta Jardon
Baldwin City Library, Kansas Room Coord., Historian/ Volunteer
Marta Jardon has spent decades preserving Baldwin City’s past. A longtime volunteer and history advocate, she researches, presents, and promotes local history—all while living on the actual Santa Fe Trail.
Sydney Roller
The Wooden Spoke, Community Champion
Sydney Roller is a lifelong Baldwin City resident, homeschooling mom, and restaurant veteran. Raised in her family’s local eateries, including The Wooden Spoke, she brings a deep love for food and community, to everything she does.
Jessica Davis Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, Promotions Chair
Jessica Davis is a proud BHS alum, sales executive, Chamber board member, substitute teacher, and longtime volunteer. She has called Baldwin City home since 1996—passionately supporting events, youth, and her community every step of the way.
Dana Mullis
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, Director/ Baldwin City Made, Owner
Dana Mullis wears many hats in Baldwin City—from Chamber Director to small business owner. She’s passionate about building community, supporting local businesses, and creating connections that help make Baldwin City a vibrant place to live.
Jenni Fish
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, Events Planner/Design-oSaur, Owner
Jenni Fish is the project manager behind this visitor’s guide. She regularly focuses on The Maple, planning Chamber events, and championing community, local businesses, and small-town stories.
Where History Lives
Baldwin City was founded in 1858. Our little town is full of beautiful historic sites, homes, and buildings, many of which are listed on historic registers. The people and the stories behind them makes our community special. Explore the sites, discover the stories, and take in the charm of Baldwin City!
Pre-Settlement Times
Territorial & Pioneer
Early Settlement
Kansas’ first non-Indigenous settlement was Fort Leavenworth in 1827.
Kansas Territory Begins
The Kansas-Nebraska Act (1854) opened the territory. Residents would decide if the state would be a free or slave state - leading to the conflict known as Bleeding Kansas.
Before the pioneer settlement of Kansas, the Kaw Nation lived in the northern area of Douglas County, and the Osage lived in the southern area. After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, plans began to move the eastern tribes westward. By the 1830s, the Kaw and Osage were resettled, and other tribes moved into the Baldwin area. Part of the area surrounding Baldwin City was on Shawnee reservation land.
BRICK STREETS
The handy work of James Garfield “Indian Jim” Jones who broke records for how many bricks he could lay in a single day.
The Santa Fe Trail was a trade route that passed through the Baldwin City area from 18211870. First used by Americans and Mexicans, it was later used by the military, mail contractors, Pony Express, and immigrants, some of whom stopped to settle in Kansas.
618 8th St. | bakeru.edu
Baker University was founded in 1858 by the Methodist Church which decided to build a university near Palmyra, close to the Santa Fe Trail. It is Kansas’ oldest private university. The campus has many beautiful historic buildings.
Santa Fe Trail Wagon Ruts & Walking Trail; Black Jack Cabin 2011 N. 200 Rd., Wellsville 66092
Pioneer Cemetery 2108 8th St.
Oakwood Cemetery 401 Orange St.
Prairie City & Mount Calvary Cemeteries 207 E. 1600 Rd.
Vinland Cemetery 748 E. 1750 Rd.
Old Castle Museum, Blood’s Grocery, and Post Office 511 5th St. Open by appt archives@bakeru.edu
Quayle Bible Collection 518 8th St. Open by appt Quayle@bakeru.edu
Santa Fe Train Depot 1515 High St.
Palmyra Well 400 Washington St.
Signal Oak 456 E. 1750 Rd.
Women’s Bridge 1000 High St.
Black Jack Battlefield 163 E. 2000 Rd., Wellsville 66092
Kansas Room (History Room)
Baldwin City Public Library 800 7th St.
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce 719 High St.
WOMEN IN LOCAL HISTORY
Palmyra Grows
Settlers claimed land in Palmyra just north of today’s Baldwin City. Homes and stores soon filled the area.
Free State Efforts
Violence and fighting continued. In 1859 the Wyandotte Constitution, the fourth Kansas State constitution, was passed. Kansas entered the Union as a free state on January 29, 1861. Territory & Pioneer
Baldwin City women contributed to local history. In 1889, Lucy Sullivan became the first female mayor of Baldwin City. An entirely female city council was elected with her and called the “Petticoat Council.” This council made improvements to city streets and sidewalks. They built the Women’s Bridge over the stream that crossed the town’s main road. This enabled women to cross the stream and keep their dresses clean. The bridge is on High and 10th Streets. You can view the bridge from the park south of 11th and High Streets.
A VARIETY OF TOURS
santafetraildouglas.org/explore-the-area
Santa Fe Trail Historical Society preserving and sharing the rich local history
sfths.douglas@gmail.com | (785) 594-3200 (Chamber)
Photograph: Dr. Frank Pérez
Heart & Art of Baldwin City
Baldwin City’s arts scene shines year-round with performances, festivals, murals, and exhibits. From theatre to quilting, highlights include the Maple Leaf Festival, Mural Tour, and more.
BHS MUSICAL
Baldwin High School’s annual fall musical is a community favorite, often filling every seat. Students in grades 7-12 take part in all aspects of the production—from acting and singing to backstage crew— bringing incredible talent and energy to the stage. Each November, the high school showcases a new musical, offering fun, family-friendly entertainment.
SHREK: THE MUSICAL In 2024, Baldwin High School brought the magic of Shrek: The Musical to life, delighting audiences with humor, heart, and a talented student cast.
LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER
718 High St.
lumberyardartscenter.org
The Lumberyard Arts Center, located in the heart of Baldwin City’s entertainment district, offers year-round creative experiences. This nonprofit hosts rotating visual art and quilt exhibits, free open studios, Lucy’s Corner arts boutique, and youth art classes.
Annual events include the Gingerbread House Party during the Festival of Lights, Holiday on High in November, the BC Fashion Show in fall, and seasonal favorites like Spoken Word and the Baker Literary Salon. Public art, music, and theatre also fill the calendar.
Frank Pérez
Quilt Capital of Kansas
Quilt Capital of Kansas
In 2019, Baldwin City was officially named the Quilt Capital of Kansas by the state senate.
Oldest Quilt Show
Baldwin City hosts the oldest quilt show in Kansas, celebrating local talent and tradition.
Historic Quilt Shop
Quilters’ Paradise is one of the oldest full-service quilt shops in the U.S.
International Connection
Baldwin City shares quilts with its sister city, Riviersonderend in South Africa, strengthening global ties.
Keep the Tradition Going
Join in with classes, shows, and Open Sew at the Lumberyard Arts Center.
BALDWIN CITY CREATIVE ARTS
711 High St. bccreativearts.com
Baldwin City
Creative Arts offers dance, tumbling, and vocal instruction in the heart of Baldwin City’s downtown. The studio is dedicated to developmentally appropriate learning, inclusive practices, and building confidence through the arts. With flexible class
options, local partnerships, and cost-conscious performances, students enjoy a wide range of opportunities from ballet to choir to competitions. BCCA is more than a studio. It’s a safe, welcoming space where every child can thrive as both an artist and an individual.
Photography: (from left, clockwise) Kayla Kohn Photography, Dana Mullis,(4), Baker University, and Dr. Frank Pérez
BALDWIN CITY MURALS
Explore downtown with the Baldwin City Mural Tour! Discover eight murals and five mural benches in Sullivan Square, plus indoor art at the Library, Chamber, Baldwin State Bank, and Om Grown Yoga. Don’t miss the Mural Scavenger Hunt—it’s a fun adventure for all ages!
MAKING MURALS –BY THE NUMBERS:
BAKER UNIVERSITY
THEATRE/MUSIC
404 8th St.
bakeru.edu
From Shakespeare to children’s plays, Baker University students perform in mainstage and studio productions each semester— guided by experienced faculty in a vibrant, hands-on program.
FIND EVERY MURAL
BALDWIN CITY COMMUNITY MURAL PROGRAM MURALS:
The Maple Seed Fountain Baldwin City Fire Station, 608 High St.
Fall for Baldwin City – The Maple Leaf Mural Lumberyard Arts Center, 718 High St.
Welcome to Baldwin City Jardon Insurance, 705 8th St.
Baker Family Tree Baker Campus, 702 Seventh St.
Sullivan Square Mural Benches located in Sullivan Square between the Lumberyard Arts Center and the U.S. Post Office.
Lucy’s Legacy Ecotones: Stability Through Change Lumberyard Arts Center
Maple Leaf Festival Evolving Pathways
A Tour of History and Charm
Interior of the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, 719 High St.
Harmony Mural
Baldwin City Library, 800 7th St.
Cheers to Baldwin City Baldwin City Beer Company, 520 High St.
Baldwin City Community Garden Tailgate Mural (catch it in the wild)
Our Favorite Books!
Interior of the Baldwin City Library, 800 7th St.
OTHER BALDWIN CITY MURALS:
The Baldwin State Bank Mural
Interior of Baldwin State Bank, 721 High St.
The Bullpen Murals
Interior of The Bullpen, 811 8th St.
BADV Proud!
Baldwin City Creative Arts, 711 High St.
Baker Arts
Baker University Campus, 600 block of 6th St.
Shutter Shapes Lumberyard Arts Center, 718 High St.
Yantra Mural
Interior of Om Grown Yoga, 816 High St.
Om Grown Yoga
Om Grown Yoga, 816 High St.
Flower Steps
Lovely Flower Co., 703 8th St.
fun facts
EACH OCTOBER, THE MAPLE LEAF FESTIVAL DRAWS NEARLY 40,000 VISITORS —EIGHT TIMES THE POPULATION OF BALDWIN CITY, WHICH HAS JUST UNDER 5,000 RESIDENTS.
Number of garden clubs that maintain flower gardens all over the city always the third full weekend of October
60
24 pole banners, with 12 different vibrant designs
22 hanging baskets downtown
6
3
Often regarded as the first true battle of the Civil War, the Battle of Black Jack took place on June 2, 1856, just three miles east of Baldwin City. The clash pitted abolitionist forces led by John Brown against pro-slavery militia commanded by Henry Clay Pate. cityowned parks
PALMYRA
Baldwin City traces its roots back to one of the oldest settlements in Kansas— originally known as Palmyra, a town founded in 1855 along the Santa Fe Trail. blocks of brick street remain, originally laid in 1925. (As of 2025)
Baldwin visit CITY, KS
Top Photo: Baldwin City Depot (1515 High Street)
Left: Black Jack Historical Log Cabin (56 Hwy & E. 2000 Road)
Right: Palmyra Well (400 Washington Street)
Santa Fe Trail Historical Society DOUGLAS COUNTY, KS of the
Bite into Baldwin
No matter what you’re craving, there’s a great meal nearby. Baldwin City’s rich history lives on in its local restaurants—many owned by lifelong residents and housed in historic buildings that have served the community for generations.
AMERICAN CUISINE
BALDWIN CITY BEER COMPANY
520 High St. (785) 594‑3535
This hometown brewery serves up craft beer, great food, and a casual atmosphere, perfect for gathering with friends and supporting local flavor.
MEXICAN FOOD
AJUUA #2 MEXICAN GRILL
& CANTINA
912 Ames St. | (785) 615‑7537
HOMESTEAD KITCHEN
& BAKERY
719 S. 8th St. (913) 208‑7196
homestead.cafe
From hearty breakfasts and irresistible pastries to a full menu of lunch, sweets, and ice cream, there’s something delicious for everyone.
A local go-to for authentic dishes, complimentary queso, cold margaritas, and hearty portions— perfect for a night out.
EL PATRON MEXICAN FOOD
711 8th St. | (785) 594‑2711
elpatronbaldwintogo.com
El Patron brings the flavor! It’s famous for margaritas, bold bites, and a festive atmosphere that keeps you coming back.
THE WOODEN SPOKE
309 Ames St. (785) 594‑2222
woodenspokerestaurant.com
Baldwin City’s longest-standing restaurant, this classic steakhouse is a local favorite known for hearty meals, timeless flavors, and hometown heart.
DRINKS
JITTERS
COFFEE SHOP
822 Ames St. (620) 437‑6967
A charming coffee trolley offering drinks and bites—cozy character with the convenience of drive-thru and curbside pickup.
PIZZA
GAMBINO’S PIZZERIA
721 8th St. | (785) 553‑3979
gambinospizza.com
Where cheesy dreams come true! From classic pies to salad bar, this family-owned hot spot serves your order up fast!
PIZZA HUT
130 US‑56 | (785) 594‑3230 pizzahut.com
Kansas-owned and locally operated, Pizza Hut in Baldwin City offers classic pizzas, wings, and more.
COFFEE SHOPS
LOVELY COFFEE
(LOCATED INSIDE LOVELY FLOWER CO.)
703 8th St. Your dream morning: espresso, pastries, and fresh flowers— all in one cozy stop tucked inside a flower shop.
THE TOWN GALLERIA
715 8th St. (785) 594‑0335 thetowngalleria.com
Grab your coffee from the walk-up window or step into a creative space filled with art and gifts.
UPLIFT BALDWIN
112 6th St. (816) 721‑7604
upliftcoffeeshop.com
Cozy coffee shop with handcrafted espresso, pastries, and occasional entertainment on the patio.
Photography: (from left, clockwise) Dr. Frank Pérez Pizza Hut , Jenni Fish (2), Adobe Stock, Uplift Baldwin, Keara Torkelson, Lovely Flower Company, and Keara Torkelson
DISTILLERY
BALDWIN CITY DISTILLERY
1747 N. 200 Rd. (785) 615‑7537
Set on a beautifully restored property, Baldwin City Distillery crafts small-batch spirits with a splash of Kansas charm. Kick back with a cocktail and soak in the rustic, laid-back vibe.
BAR
THE BULLPEN
811 8th St. | (785) 594‑1170
Lively sports bar with cold drinks, pool tables, digital games, and daily drink specials.
(JUICE)BAR
THE WELL NEST
(OMGROWNYOGA&WELLNESSCOLLECTIVE)
816 High St. | (785) 816‑0207 omgyc.com
Refill your wellness one sip at a time. This curated juice bar offers fresh juices, wellness lattes, and refreshers made with raw, locally sourced organic ingredients.
DESSERTS
ICE CREAM
ICE CREAM HOUSE
912 Ames St. | (785) 615‑7537
Tucked behind the downtown fountain, this charming walk-up serves scoops of happiness with small-town flair.
Along Highway 56
Burger King
Casey’s Pizza
Sonic Subway
Buck’s Honey Bee Company
Hornberger Farms
South Baldwin Farms
Tesa’s Treasures
Vesecky Family Farms
Saturday Morning Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning in April-October
Near Sullivan Square 8-11 a.m.
Stroll, Shop, Repeat
Welcome to Baldwin City, where a vibrant community thrives with a diverse range of local businesses ready to serve. From unique gifts and wellness services to a fresh new look, small businesses here offer exceptional products and experiences that reflect the heart of the town. Stroll through the charming streets and discover standout shops and services waiting to be enjoyed.
ANTIQUES
SKI’S 1890’S BARBERSHOP
813 8th St. | (913) 708 2127
Step into history at Ski’s Barber Shop, where you’ll settle into antique barber chairs for a modern cut, a beard trim, and a full experience that blends tradition, skill, and smalltown charm.
UNIQUE FINDS
BALDWIN CITY MADE (INSIDELOVELYFLOWERCO.)
707 8th St. | (785) 594 5171
baldwincitymade.com
Located downtown, Baldwin City’s goto shirt shop offers local apparel, spirit wear, and custom tees. Find them inside The Lovely Flower Company or shop online.
EVRY’TANG & MORE
215 US 56 Suite B (816) 507 2606
evrytangandmore.com
Located on Highway 56, this charming shop brings together multiple creative vendors under one roof. It offers a custom t-shirt bar, leather goods, stickers, cups, and more. Photography: (from left, clockwise) Keara Torkelson, Lovely Flower Company, and Keara Torkelson.
LOVELY
FLOWER COMPANY
703 8th St. | (785) 251 0689
lovelyflowerco.com
A delightful flower shop offering fresh blooms, unique gifts, expert floral arrangements, and coffee.
YOUR PERSONAL JEWELER (INSIDE TOWN GALLERIA)
715 8th St. (785) 594 0335
thetowngalleria.com
Shop a wide range of beautiful jewelry as well as customizable designs to create a special, one-of-akind piece of quality jewelry.
Rental Venues
Baldwin City Beer Company 520 High St. (785) 594-3535
Baldwin City Community Center 712 Chapel St. 785-594-3670
Baldwin City Golf Course 1102 Main St. 785-594-3670
Baldwin City Library 800 7th St. 785-594-3411
Clarice L. Osborne Memorial Chapel 515 6th St. 785-594-4553
Dunn’s Landing 4553 Ohio Rd. Wellsville, KS 66092 785-418-9957
Homestead Kitchen & Bakery 719 Eighth St. (785) 766-3442
Lumberyard Arts Center 718 High St. 785-594-3186
Stony Point Hall 1514 N. 600 Rd. 785-594-2225
Timber’s Edge 1558 N. 600 Rd. 785-615-7080
Vinland Fairgrounds 1736 N. 700
vinlandfair.com
ARTS, CRAFTS & CREATIVITY
LUCY’S CORNER
(LOCATED INSIDE THE LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER)
718 High St. (785) 594‑3186
A pop-up boutique showcasing local art and merchandise. Support area artists and the mission of the arts center.
OM GROWN YOGA & WELLNESS COLLECTIVE
THE TOWN GALLERIA
715 8th St. (785) 594 0335 thetowngalleria.com
Discover a treasure trove of art and antiques at The Town Galleria, where local artists showcase their talents alongside carefully curated vintage finds.
QUILTERS’ PARADISE
713 8th St. (785) 594 3477
quiltingfabricsupply.com
Calling all quilting enthusiasts! Quilters’ Paradise is your haven for fabric, patterns, and everything you need to create beautiful quilts and crafts.
STYLE & SELF-CARE
816 & 820 High St. | (785) 816‑0207 omgyc.com
Your home for whole-person wellness, steeped in ancient traditions and guided by modernday science. Om Grown provides a space to restore balance, nurture health, and inspire growth in mind, body, and spirit.
STANDARD GROOMING SUPPLY
616 High St. | (773) 807 7192 standardgroomingsupply.com
At Standard Grooming Supply, you’ll find expert barbering and beard sculpting services, along with timeless craftsmanship and contemporary style. Browse their selection of premium grooming products and a curated retail selection of boutique goods.
Photography:
(from left)
Om Grown Yoga & Wellness, Kayla Kohn
Photography
Stay Cozy in Historic Baldwin City
FARM & GARDEN
AD ASTRA ALPACAS
168 E. 1700 Rd. (785) 691‑8265
adastraalpacas.com
Meet these charming creatures and shop for alpaca fiber products. Ad Astra Alpacas promotes sustainable farming and locally made textiles.
ARROWHEAD HARDWARE
318 Crimson Ave. (785) 594‑3000 doitbest.com/ arrowhead hardware
Your one-stop shop for tools, garden gear, home repair essentials, and expert advice. They offer everything you need right here in Baldwin City.
SOUTH BALDWIN FARMS
22 E. 1700 Rd. (785) 251‑3993
southbaldwin.com
Experience freshness at South Baldwin Farms where locally-grown produce captures the spirit of Kansas agriculture.
VINLAND VALLEY NURSERY
1606 N. 600 Rd. (785) 594‑2966
vinlandvalleynursery.com
A family-owned, pesticide-free nursery featuring native plants, veggies, herbs, and expert garden advice, all rooted in sustainability and local pride.
Salon on 56 (785) 551-3195 salonon56. glossgenius.com
Seventh Street Hair 809 7th St. (785) 594-7144
Simply Style Family Hair Care 609 High St., Suite A (785) 764-0442
Ski’s 1890’s Barbershop 813 8th St. (913) 708-2127
Standard Grooming Supply 616 High St. (773) 807-7192
standard groomingsupply.com
Vibe Hair Studio 215 Suite A, 56 Hwy (785) 331-5999
Whitney’s Hair Salon 701 High St. (785) 594-6626 Hair Studios
Photograph: Dr. Frank Pérez
Live the Local Life
SANTA ROCKET
1515 High St. (entrance along platform) ottawanorthernrailroad.com
During the holiday season, hop on a festive train ride from Baldwin City to the North Pole! Enjoy cocoa, lights, and Santa on this one-hour journey.
Looking for inspiration on what to do in Baldwin City? Longtime local, Jessica Davis, crafted three seasonal itineraries to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re here for the summer adventures, cozy fall vibes, or the beautiful winter ambience, check out Jessica’s recommendations and discover a few local gems along the way!
WINTER TRIP MORNING
• Breakfast with Santa
• Shop at the Holiday Markets
AFTERNOON
• Lunch at Homestead Kitchen & Bakery
• Sip a hot chocolate from Jitters and hunt for the Jingle Bell Rocks
EVENING
• Pick up a pizza from Gambino’s Pizzeria
• Drive around to view the Christmas lights
Baldwin City is all about the holiday magic! Surround yourself with twinkling lights and the sound of holiday music in the distance. It is a true winter wonderland experience. Use the QR code on page 42 for a list of seasonal events.
Photograph: Dr. Frank Pérez
In our distillation process, we are committed to sourcing local ingredients, and our dedication to craftsmanship is evident in the nuances of every bottle we create.
We invite you to leave your busy life behind and enjoy the serenity of the country, the simplicity of nature, and the amazing spirits that are created within.
Our tasting room is nestled in a beautifully renovated classic red barn surrounded by expansive prairie and heirloom apple orchards. Here we offer our visitors a sampling of the unique, small-batch spirits produced by our on-site micro-distillery.
VINLAND VALLEY FAIR
1736 N. 700 Rd.
vinlandfair.com
Enjoy the three-day fair by savoring home-baked pies and live music, watching a tractor pull, and participating in old-time farm skills competitions, a variety of activities for kids, a homemade ice cream contest, and more! Free admission.
SPRING/FALL TRIP
MORNING
• Visit the Saturday Morning Farmers Market and pick up a bite to eat
• Fishing/Kayaking at Douglas State Fishing Lake
AFTERNOON
• Lunch at Ajuua #2 Mexican Grill & Cantina
• Book the ‘Escape Together’ package at Om Grown Yoga & Wellness. Get a massage with Sauna & Soak for Two
EVENING
• Dinner at the Wooden Spoke
• Stop by the Baldwin City Distillery for a handcrafted cocktail
As a recognized Tree City USA, spring and fall are colorful times of year to visit and explore the rich history Baldwin has to offer. Use the QR code on page 42 for a list of seasonal events.
38 Visit Baldwin City
SUMMER TRIP
MORNING
• Breakfast at UpLift Baldwin
• Stroll around downtown for locally crafted gifts
• Local Historic Driving Tours
AFTERNOON
• Patio lunch at Baldwin City Beer Company
• Wine tasting at Haven Pointe Winery (schedule in advance)
EVENING
• Vinland Fair for dinner & activities
• Get ice cream at the Ice Cream House
Summer in Baldwin City means patio dining, winery tastings, historic drives, downtown shopping, and relaxed small-town charm from morning to evening. Use the QR code on page 42 for a list of seasonal events.
Photograph: Meagan Young
Where Learning Thrives
Baker University
618 8th St. | 785-594-6451 | bakeru.edu
Since its founding in 1858, Baker University has experienced a noteworthy history and promises a flourishing future. The oldest university in Kansas, it continues a tradition of academic excellence and student engagement in a respectful, inviting, and values-based learning community.
USD 348
715 Chapel St. | 785-594-2721 | usd348.com
Baldwin City is deeply committed to lifelong learning, offering educational opportunities for all ages from preschoolers to adult learners. Spanning 139 square miles, the district’s four schools combine smalltown charm with access to big-city resources and opportunities.
the Rainbow Experience
Preschool
115 6th St. | 785-594-2223
rainbowexperiencepreschool.org
Rainbow Experience
Preschool is a private, nonprofit preschool that has served Baldwin City and nearby communities since 1962. With licensed teachers and a curriculum aligned with USD 348, Rainbow helps students transition smoothly into the public school system.
Photography: (from top, clockwise) Dr. Frank Pérez, Rainbow Preschool, and USD 348
JuneSept.
THIRD FRIDAY MARKETS
(ANNUALLY JUNE-SEPT.)
baldwincitychamber.com
Location: Downtown Baldwin City
Date: June 19, 2026
July 17, 2026
August 21 , 2026
September 18, 2026
Local makers, live music, good food—Third Friday fun downtown.
June
INDEPENDENCE
DAY
CELEBRATION
baldwinrec.org
Location: Baldwin City Golf Course
Date: June 27, 2026
Celebrate July 4th in Baldwin City with fireworks, live entertainment, great food, and small-town charm.
October
MAPLE LEAF FESTIVAL
(ANNUALLY THIRD FULL WEEKEND OF OCTOBER)
mapleleaffestival.com
Location: Downtown Baldwin City
Date: October 17, 2026
October 18, 2026
Arts, food, parades, crafts, shopping, and music fill Baldwin’s streets.
Photograph: Kiel Peterson
MARCH/APRIL
RAINBOW PRESCHOOL EASTER EGG HUNT
A fun-filled afternoon as kiddos of all ages search for colorful eggs at the annual preschool hunt.
MAY
THUNDER ON THE BRICKS
Cars and motorcycles line up downtown for a family-friendly day full of engines.
END OF SCHOOL ICE CREAM SOCIAL
Celebrate the last day of school with free ice cream and fun activities with The Maple.
JUNE
COMMUNITY WIDE YARD SALE
Approx. 85 households will be participating—don’t miss the deals, finds, and fun.
AUGUST
VINLAND VALLEY FAIR
A free, three-day celebration with pies, tractor pulls, farm contests, and family fun in small-town Vinland, Kansas.
SMOKE ON THE BRICKS
A BBQ showdown featuring top pitmasters, great food, and live music in historic downtown.
SEPTEMBER
BC FASHION SHOW
A stylish night of fashion, music, and community.
Support the arts with local runway looks, vendors, and a festive garden party.
BIG HAIR ON THE SQUARE
Expect high- octane covers of iconic ‘80s and early ‘90s glam rock—think massive guitar solos, soaring vocals, and anthems.
OCTOBER
MAPLE LEAF FESTIVAL
The city’s biggest event of the year—arts, crafts, food, music, and parades all weekend long.
KAW VALLEY FARM TOUR
Explore beautiful local farms, meet working agricultural producers, and learn about regional food and farming throughout the Kaw Valley.
MAPLE LEAF GRAVEL GRIND
Cyclists take to the scenic gravel roads of Douglas County in this challenging annual ride.
MAPLE LEAF BEER, WINE & SPIRIT FEST
Sample regional craft beverages and enjoy local flavors during this festive tasting event.
HOMETOWN HALLOWEEN
Kids in costumes parade downtown for trunk-or-treating and spooky fun for the whole family.
NOVEMBER BINGO NIGHT
Enjoy a fun evening of Bingo, prizes, and community—all to support Rainbow Preschool!
TRIVIA NIGHT
A night of trivia, drinks, and snacks hosted by the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce.
SHOP SMALL SATURDAY
Support local businesses and score unique gifts during this post-Thanksgiving shopping day downtown Baldwin City.
DECEMBER
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE
A magical nighttime parade filled with glowing floats, music, and holiday cheer.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Enjoy pancakes and visit with Santa Claus at this holiday favorite for families.
BAKER UNIVERSITY VESPERS
A seasonal concert featuring sacred music and student performances at Baker University.
UGLY SWEATER FUN RUN
Hosted by the Lumberyard Arts Center, this festive run/ walk supports the arts with mugs, sweaters, cocoa, and community fun!
HOLIDAY MARKETS
Shop crafts, art, and unique gifts from local makers. Enjoy festive music, seasonal treats, and wholesome community cheer.
