Things To Do
in Lawrence
Lawrence, Kansas is a vibrant college town known for its historic downtown and friendly atmosphere. The city centers around the University of Kansas, infusing the area with cultural events, arts, and sports immersion. Massachusetts Street (Mass Street) offers boutiques, cafes, and live music, while Mount Oread provides scenic campus views and older architecture.
The Kansas River parks and extensive bike and hiking trails make Lawrence feel both energetic and outdoorsy, with a walkable layout and welcoming Midwestern charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along Massachusetts Street, popping into independent boutiques and vintage shops that line the historic brick sidewalks. Stop for a cup of locally roasted coffee at a cozy café and watch the town come to life as shop owners prepare for the day. Pause at one of the murals or art installations to capture photos and immerse yourself in Lawrence’s creative spirit.
Visit the Watkins Museum of History to uncover stories of the town’s Wild West origins and local legends in the beautifully restored Victorian mansion. Continue to Liberty Hall, where you can learn about its role during different eras and admire its ornate interior architecture. Take a break for lunch at a nearby gastropub serving modern takes on Kansas comfort food.
Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant housed in a charming historic building, sampling dishes crafted from regional ingredients. Afterwards, join a guided ghost tour that weaves through dimly lit alleyways and shares spooky tales from Lawrence’s past. Cap the night with a craft cocktail at a speakeasy-style bar hidden away on a side street.
Start with a guided walking tour of the University of Kansas campus, admiring iconic landmarks like the Campanile and Watson Library. Feel the collegiate energy as students hustle between classes, and peek inside art-filled corridors and green quadrangles. Grab a breakfast burrito at a popular campus eatery to fuel your explorations.
Spend time at the Spencer Museum of Art, where rotating exhibitions showcase everything from contemporary installations to ancient artifacts. Next door, visit the KU Natural History Museum to marvel at dinosaur skeletons and regional wildlife dioramas. Pause for lunch on a shady quad bench as you watch frisbee games and study groups dotting the lawns.
Attend a Jayhawks basketball game or catch a theater production in one of the campus’s intimate performance spaces. If there’s no event, head to the bustling sports bar district nearby to soak in the collegiate nightlife. Finish with ice cream from a student-favorite parlor, reminiscing about the day’s academic and cultural highlights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏨Hotel stay (mid-range) | $100-180 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi/rideshare within town | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant university town with rich cultural events
- Walkable downtown and campus with diverse dining options
- Strong selection of breweries and live music venues
- Accessible parks and outdoor spaces along the Kansas River
- Seasonal heat in summer can be intense
- Limited public transit beyond downtown and campus
- Some attractions and venues have seasonal schedules
Places to Visit in Lawrence
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic clock tower with city views and collegiate architecture—great for sunset shots and campus photography.
Historic storefronts, brick sidewalks, and lively street life provide dynamic urban photography opportunities.
Wide horizon views over the water and surrounding hills—excellent for landscape and golden-hour photography.
Sculptures and curated greenery offer refined subject matter and color palettes for artful photography.
Elevated vantage points near the KU campus with sweeping views of the town and surrounding landscape.
Food in Lawrence
Lawrence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked brisket with a tangy sauce, widely found at downtown barbecue joints and pubs.
Must-Try!
Tacos with chili, corn, and pepper flavors found at Mexican eateries near the KU campus and downtown.
Homemade pies frequently featured at local cafés and bakeries, great for a dessert or brunch finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and fresh prepared foods on Saturdays in downtown Lawrence.
Rotating food trucks and pop-up street food around Mass Street and KU campus on weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings (hello/hi), please, and thank you are appreciated. Be punctual for social plans and respectful of private property in neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Lawrence
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard practice in restaurants is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; leave more for exceptional service. Tip bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot temperatures and humidity are common. Stay hydrated, plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings, and keep an eye on afternoon storms.
Pleasant weather with vivid foliage; ideal for walking the streets and campus. Pack layers for cooler evenings.
Cold snaps and occasional Snow; urban areas are generally well-maintained but layers and sturdy footwear are advised.
Milder days with blooming gardens and parks; be prepared for rain showers and variable temperatures.
Lawrence at Night
Hiking in Lawrence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive wetland trail system offering wildlife viewing and easy-to-moderate hikes.
Waterfront trails with views of the lake, suitable for longer hikes and bike rides.
Hilly routes around the KU campus with scenic overlooks and winding paths.
Airports
How to reach Lawrence by plane.
Major international airport about 40 miles northeast of Lawrence; accessible by car or shuttle services.
Small general aviation airport near Lawrence for private flights and flight training.
Small public airport in Kansas City area, offering general aviation services; alternative option to MCI.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population from KU, along with families who live and work in the area.
Many newcomers and professionals attracted by the university culture and downtown amenities.
Older residents who enjoy cultural events, parks, and a relaxed Midwest lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport at KU with a strong fan base; attracts visitors for games and campus events.
College football culture and tailgating are popular around KU's stadium season.
Active community and university programs with local events and meets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lawrence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many downtown eateries and KU-area restaurants offer meat-free bowls, veggie burgers, salads, and plant-based entrees; ask for menu variations or substitutions as needed.