photo by gusto

A relaxed, hip town that lies between Topeka and Kansas City, Lawrence offers the best of small-town charm and big-city appeal. Whether you drop in to have a bite in one of Massachusetts Street’s famed restaurants or to explore the University of Kansas, a visit to Lawrence is always a good time.

Although the city is charming enough on its own, there is little question that Lawrence draws much of its festive energy and cultural appeal from the University of Kansas. Described as “a college town at heart,” Lawrence offers a perfect blend of collegiate enthusiasm and sophisticated allure. For museum enthusiasts, the university features such celebrated attractions as the Spencer Museum of Art, the Museum of Anthropology as well as the University of Kansas Natural History Museum. Then again, academics aren’t the only things for which Lawrence is known. The city also boasts a great music scene that provides the primary fuel for Lawrence nightlife. Once the sun goes down in Lawrence, it has been said that you can’t walk more than 10 feet without stumbling upon a bar or restaurant featuring live music. If you love to dance, Abe & Jake’s Landing is an excellent place to cut a rug.

One of the best parts of Lawrence is Massachusetts Street downtown. You’ll find a variety of shops and boutiques, several great art galleries, some of the city’s best locally owned restaurants, and a large selection of bars and clubs. Be sure to stop by the Free State Brewing Co., a wildly popular gathering spot. Day or night, downtown Lawrence hums with energy.