It's always a sad day when you hear an old favorite restaurant has closed. Maybe it's a chain that disappeared in the 70s or a local spot that made food with a secret recipe they never released. However, Kansas has lost one of its greats in the permanent closing of The Brookville Hotel in Abilene.
For years, Only In Kansas has been singing praises of one of the state's oldest establishments for classic comfort food and a historic building we never wanted to let go of.
What started out as a hotel in 1894 became a restaurant in 1933 serving fried chicken dinners. Homemade butter pickles, biscuits, and cream-style corn really turn the dinner into something to be treasured.
Those chicken dinners were an instant hit, and the reason behind its century-long success.
These family-style meals with fried chicken, homemade relish, coleslaw, and amazing biscuits were something we always looked forward to when coming through town. Now, we'll have to learn how to make these things at home to keep the tradition alive in our own ways.
I can still remember the sweet tang of the relish.
For many Kansans, this restaurant has been a part of family road trips for decades and generations. Some families followed it from Brookville to Abilene after they moved to a location with plumbing access and more customers. Families of all sizes stopped in for a home-cooked meal that tasted like the history in the walls.
The restaurant was officially announced to be closed on October 1, 2020, and we've been grieving ever since. Everyone that's dined here over the past 125 years knows just how much love and care the Martin family has poured into this spot.
In wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, The Brookville Hotel is to be closed permanently. After more than 125 years, closing their doors feels like the end of an era.
It would be nothing short of a miracle to save this piece of history and bring it back to life.
We're very sad to see the end of The Brookville Hotel, but with everything that's happened recently, we understand why they couldn't keep things moving. During times like this, we would love to boost some other local restaurants that you think deserve an article on our page. If you have any suggestions, send them to our Nomination Page.
Traveling to The Sunflower State and searching for a great place to stay? From a historic hotel to a luxury inn, we have a variety of options for you to check out. So follow along and find out what we think are the best hotels in Kansas.
advertisement
Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Kansas
If you're looking for a new and exciting travel experience, why not stay at a hotel unlike any other? It'll be more unique than staying at your average hotel and will provide a memorable experience. We've done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the best ones. Check them out!
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
The Hotel At Old Town in Wichita is set in a landmark warehouse building dating back to 1906. It's a short walk to attractions like the Museum of World Treasures and under two miles from Crown Uptown Theatre. The hotel has classic rooms with full kitchens, sitting areas, and work desks. Enjoy early mornings and the breakfast buffet in the brightly lit atrium. Guests also have access to a fitness center, laundry facility, and a lively piano bar.
The Historic Wolf Hotel is a place for those looking for a relaxing bed and breakfast experience. It's located in the small town of Ellinwood, which makes it an excellent pitstop for anyone visiting the surrounding areas. Rooms at the hotel provide air conditioning and free wifi, while some rooms have extras like flat-screen TVs and fully equipped kitchens. Enjoy the grounds and gardens, and check out the restaurant and bar. Looking for somewhere to host an event? The Historic Wolf Hotel is an events space as well.
Amenities: Free wifi, breakfast, parking, and pet-friendly.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
advertisement
Midland Railroad Hotel & Restaurant in Wilson is set in a historic limestone building listed on the National Register of Historic Places and dates back to 1899. Relax in comfortable rooms with luxury cotton linens and private baths. If you're looking for a bite to eat, the onsite restaurant, Sample Room Tavern, is a great option. In addition to food, the hotel has a bar, lounge, and lovely garden.
Best Hotel Pools in Kansas
Traveling to Kansas and on the hunt for a hotel with a pool? You're in luck! Whether traveling with the family or taking a romantic holiday, we've got a list of outdoor and indoor pools, so you can't go wrong.
Element Overland Park, a Marriott Hotel in Leawood, is close to several popular attractions, such as the Museum at Prairie Fire and Gezer Park. The hotel's spacious rooms include premium beds and flat-screen TVs. Guests will have access to the indoor saline pool and the onsite restaurant, Element Rise Breakfast. Other amenities include a fitness center, meeting space, and complimentary bike rentals.
Amenities: Free wifi, breakfast, parking, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
Cedar Crest Lodge in Pleasanton is situated on 100 acres and is less than an hour from Kansas City, Missouri, making it a great location to escape the city. Check in to one of the intimate guest rooms and enjoy Whirlpool bathtubs, complimentary toiletries, and room service. Guests can enjoy bountiful breakfasts, farm-to-table dinners, and spa services. Another perk of lodging at the Cedar Crest Lodge is the onsite activities like walking trails, outdoor pool, and bocce ball court.
Best Luxury Hotels in Kansas
Treat yourself to a lavish getaway by staying at a luxury hotel. Unplug and decompress by booking a stay at any of these options and indulge in outstanding service, premium amenities, and deluxe accommodations.
In the Flint Hills of Kansas, you'll find the beautifully renovated 19th-century Historic Elgin Hotel. The luxurious suites at the hotel provide comfortable beds, plush robes, and slippers, making for a cozy stay. Enjoy the fitness center, game lounge, and the onsite restaurant, Parlour. Relax, unwind, and have an unforgettable stay by booking a room at the Elgin Hotel.
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, and laundry service.
Ratings: 4.4 stars
advertisement
The Oread Hotel is within walking distance from the University of Kansas campus and a short drive from Memorial Stadium. The location is convenient, with easy access to all the attractions, nightlife, and restaurants Lawerence offers. Upscale rooms have granite bathrooms and high-end linens. Amenities include multiple restaurants, a tanning salon, and a Starbucks onsite.
Amenities: Free wifi, breakfast, air conditioning, and a gold course.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
Step back in time and book a few nights at Clover Cliff Ranch Bed & Breakfast. Surrounded by the Flint Hills, it's the perfect place to stay if you enjoy the outdoors. Guests can take part in guided horseback riding tours and hiking trails or play a game of disc golf on the onsite 18-hole course. Retreat to your elegant rooms and enjoy a hearty free breakfast on the enclosed veranda in the mornings.
Best Boutique Hotels in Kansas
Kansas boutique hotels provide a trendy look and feel that makes them perfect for visitors looking for a place to stay with style. They are in prime spots, making them an excellent choice for those who want to stay close to attractions while enjoying hip and comfortable accommodations.
Amenities: Free wifi, laundry service, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 4.6 stars
The Cyrus Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is a swanky boutique hotel close to Kansas State Capitol Visitor Center and the Topeka Zoo. The rooms are warm and stylish, with a retro feel. They come with free wifi and flat-screen TVs. The property also has a chic restaurant and lobby bar.
10. Ambassador Hotel Wichita, Autograph Collection, Wichita
Amenities: Free wifi, air conditioning, and laundry service.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
advertisement
This modern hotel, located in a former bank building, is within walking distance from the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center and half a mile from the Museum of World Treasures. The Ambassador Hotel Wichita, an Autograph Collection, has contemporary rooms with Keurig coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and designer toiletries. Be sure to take advantage of the free airport shuttle, onsite restaurant, and 24-hour fitness center.
Best Resorts in Kansas
Stay at any of these resorts, and you will not be disappointed. With gorgeous water views and outstanding accommodations, you'll be sure to experience the best of Kansas.
Address: 4901 Meadowbrook Pkwy, Prairie Village, KS 66207
Price: $293/night
Amenities: Free wifi, parking, and an outdoor pool.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
advertisement
The Inn at Meadowbrook in Prairie Village is a 5-star hotel overlooking Meadowbrook Lake and is a short drive from Overland Park and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Elegant and traditional rooms offer free wifi and walk-in showers, while upgraded rooms have lake views with balconies or patios. While staying at the inn, enjoy a variety of dining options, a fire pit, a hot tub, and an outdoor pool.
Amenities: Fire pits, outdoor pool, basketball court, and a fishing pond.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
East Bank at Mill Creek in Maple Hill is a great place to relax from the hustle of busy city life. It's located in the beautiful Flint Hills and is very close to Topeka, making for a convenient location for a weekend getaway. East Bank has 12 deluxe cabins, each having scenic views, a fire pit, and a patio. The property provides everything you need to have a fun-filled experience. Enjoy fishing in the stocked pond, the swimming pool, and the tennis and basketball courts.
Have you been to any of these beautiful hotels in Kansas? Do you think they are some of the best hotels in Kansas to spend your vacation? Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear your thoughts!
If you're eager to pause and relax and you're looking for one of the best places to stay in Kansas, look no further. You'll want to plan a getaway to Cedar Crest Lodge in Pleasanton, Kansas, for a few days. While this charming bed and breakfast is less than an hour from Kansas City, you'll be transported to another world during your time at here, and it's easy to see why it's called one of the best places to stay in Pleasanton, Kansas. In addition to the stunning scenery, you'll get to indulge in fresh and organic meals, unwind in a comfortable room, play lawn games, and soak in some rays by the pool. Read on to learn more about what you'll experience when you head to this remote paradise getaway.
advertisement
During your stay at Cedar Crest Lodge, you'll be surrounded by acres of land. Because this lodge is secluded, you'll be able to truly escape and relax for a few days.
We all need a getaway every once in a while, and few places are better for it than this! As you can see, the spacious rooms are ideal for rest, relaxation, and taking in stunning views from the comfort of your bed.
In the evening, feel free to curl up by the fire and relax in the lounge with a good book. The setting is also ideal for relaxing with a hot cocoa in the cold months, too!
