The Ultimate Day Guide to Lawrence

Forty-five minutes outside of downtown KC, lies a city that continually grows in popularity + hip spots, and is home to a LOT of Jayhawks.

Before this story, I had only been to Lawrence twice; but never really got to experience Mass Street and all of it’s glory. There is so much to see and experience, and I’m very excited to share a few of my favorite finds with you!

First up, 1900 Barker. I cannot stress how amazing this quaint little spot is! I first heard of 1900 through Instagram & fell in love with their imagery; it only took one visit to fall in love with everything else. From their bread making process, (they only use freshly milled grain, a little salt, water and naturally occurring wild yeast), and the story of how they came to be, (the building used to be a laundromat!), this space is full of charm. So much charm, in fact, that I somehow ended up ordering three croissants, a cheese danish and two drinks. I regret nothing.

Next up is Wonder Fair! If you’re like me and love to buy different cards for every occasion just because, you will be head over heels for this shop. Filled to the brim with local artists, (even some from KC), the store showcases cards, prints, art supplies, kiddo approved products, etc. This space is easily one of my new favorites for all things gift-worthy.

A short walk away lies The Bourgeois Pig, which is currently home to one of my favorite iced coffees + amazing European flair, and I will use any and all excuses to visit. (Even if I did order two drinks 30 minutes earlier… again, no regrets). This beautiful coffee & espresso bar has been apart of Lawrence for 20 years, and has served as a gathering spot for residents and visitors alike.

It’s not a visit to Lawrence without a trip to Love Garden. LG was one of my first stops in Lawrence years ago, so it still holds a special place in my heart. This full service record shop not only has a great selection of LP’s, CD’s, tapes and stereo equipment, but their eclectic feel is one of a kind, and not complete without a mention of the shop cat that greets you at the door.

After browsing records, it’s time for The Dusty Bookshelf. (I should warn you… this little shop brings out my inner bookworm and I am 100% okay with it). The folks here buy, trade, sell, high-quality + gently read books and I have found some of the best travel/photography books for under $10.

As you can imagine, shop hopping can create quite an appetite. RND Corner Grille was there for me when I needed it most; with crab cakes & a Sazerac. It's settled in an old drugstore, and the interior is all around stunning. The space has the most beautiful natural light, and an Insta-worthy black & white tiled bar! Definitely a must for a quick cocktail with friends, or a nice dinner for date night.

A new stop for me this round in Lawrence was Sunflower, and it will be one I make more frequently going forward. The perfect shop for the outdoor enthusiast, you can find everything for your next getaway, (including rainbow colored hammocks + canoes. I’m telling you, it's a dreamland).

Last stop on this Lawrence day guide is Wild Man Vintage. I fell in love instantly with this store after finding the perfect pair of vintage Levi bell bottoms for $14, (and seeing the lime green walls covered in old record album artwork). If you’re like me and enjoy looking through styles from multiple decades, this is a spot that shouldn’t be missed.

There you have it guys, my day guide to Lawrence Kansas! I hope you enjoyed some of my favorite little spots that I discovered over my last few visits, and if you have a free day and can head out of the city for a bit, I promise Mass Street does not disappoint.

For a few more snapshots of Lawrence, check out the gallery below: