Chelsea Gentry In honor of the great love we share for our Alma Mater, my husband Colton and I compiled a bucket list of everything we recommend you do in Manhattan, Kansas. Whether you are a new student at Kansas State University or just passing through, everyone should complete The Ultimate Kansas State University Bucket List.
Don’t forget to download your K-State Checklist below!
1. Go to a Football Game
If you do nothing else on this list, you need to experience a Kansas State Football Game. Even for me (someone who has difficulty understanding football) it’s worth every second. From tailgating to the Wabash Cannonball, going to a football game is the best part of the Manhattan Kansas experience.
2. Photo at the Manhattan Sign
Everyone needs a photo at the Manhattan sign! It’s an excellent experience with friends. It’s also a beautiful view of the city from a high vantage point.
3. Stargaze at the Scenic Overlook
The scenic overlook is just outside of town on K-177. It’s the perfect spot for star gazing or even a picnic. This Manhattan gem is definitely underrated.
4. Eat Call Hall Ice Cream
Call Hall ice cream may be the best ice cream in the state of Kansas. My nephews recently experienced Call Hall for the first time when they were two or three years old and absolutely loved it.
5. Try Shuttle Pizza
It’s average pizza in my opinion, but a necessary tradition when visiting K-State. Remember to flip the box upside down and drop it before eating to get the grease off the top. Again, a strange tradition but necessary.
6. Visit Pillsbury Crossing
Pillsbury Crossing is a beautiful low water river crossing that has a small waterfall. The area is idyllic for hiking, canoeing, fishing, or just hanging out.
7. Study at Hale Library
My favorite room at Hale Library was the Great Room or the “Harry Potter Room.” There was a fire at the library in 2018, but repairs have been made since to return it to its former glory.
8. Get a Snack at the Varsity Truck
The Varsity Truck is the best choice for late night eats. It has everything from grilled cheese and corn dogs to bacon bombs and donuts. If you love a good late night treat, check out the Varsity Truck.
9. Go to the Sunset Zoo
Fun fact: The Sunset Zoo was where we had our wedding reception. It’s a beautiful venue that holds a special place in my heart. The zoo itself is small and well managed and certainly worth a visit!
10. Try Raspberry Bean Dip at So Long Saloon
The Raspberry Bean Dip at So Long Saloon is a MUST have when visiting Manhattan. Trust us. It’s delicious.
11. See a Performance at McCain
McCain Auditorium has a variety of shows throughout the year, from comedians to musicals to choirs. There is something for everyone at McCain.
12. Play Foot Golf at Wildcat Fitness & Fun
Foot golf is so much fun. It’s a great way to get outside, move your body and have a laugh. I say laugh, because we were terrible at foot golf. Still highly recommended.
13. Go to Aggieville on New Year’s Eve
Instead of watching the ball drop in New York on TV, hang out in the iconic Aggieville to watch the “little apple” drop at midnight. The streets are crowded, but the atmosphere is worth the crowd.
14. Visit the Insect Zoo
The Insect Zoo is another underrated stop in Manhattan, KS. Honestly, I wanted to work there while attending classes at K-State. The carpenter ants alone are worth the stop.
15. Bowl at the Student Union
Colton used to bowl at the Student Union every week and he considers it one of his favorite hang-out spots in the city. Grab some friends and go bowling!
16. Hike the Konza Prairie
The Konza Prairie is a beautiful nature preserve just outside of town. The nature trail is only 2.5 miles long, but you can hike up to 6 miles at the Konza if you are feeling adventurous.
17. Eat Breakfast at the Chef
The best pancakes I ever had were at the Chef. Lines are notoriously long at this restaurant for a reason. It’s delicious. Be sure to include this in your K-State experience.
18. Ice Skate in the Park
In the winter an ice skating rink opens in the Manhattan City Park. Sure, you might look like a fool trying to skate, but what’s more winter-y than ice skating? Everyone should try it once.
19. Grab Coffee and a Treat at Radina’s
Radina’s coffee shop believes “food should be simple, delicious, and healthy,” which means their food is made without preservatives or chemicals. It’s also an ideal location for a coffee date.
20. Read a Book at Bluestem Bistro
Bluestem Bistro is located in Aggieville. It’s a great place to sit and read or meet up with friends. Honestly it’s not my favorite stop, but it’s too iconic not to include.
21. Visit the Dusty Bookshelf
One of my favorite places in all of Manhattan is the Dusty Bookshelf. This used book store is great for pursuing, studying and coffee dates.
22. Meet Willie the Wildcat
You can catch Willie at Football, Basketball, Volleyball, or just hanging around the campus. Find that magical beast and get a picture.
23. Go Two-Stepping at Dirty Dawgs
One of my fondest memories while attending K-State was two-stepping with my friends at Dirty Dawgs. Go early so you have lots of space to dance. The later it gets the bigger and drunker the crowd.
24. Get Donuts at Varsity Donuts
I’m not a donut person, but these donuts are the most delicious I’ve ever had. They have all sorts, so don’t forget to make this stop a priority.
25. Learn the Alma Mater
You can’t attend K-State without knowing the Alma Mater. It’s vital to your experience. It’s also especially awkward to wear purple, attend a football game and not know the Alma Mater, so we recommend you learn it.
I hope you have enjoyed reading about The Ultimate Kansas State University Bucket List. Don’t forget to download your checklist above! For extra more travel tips for the state of Kansas, check out these additional blog posts:
Why You Need to Visit Lindsborg Kansas
The Ultimate Kansas State University Bucket List
The Best Things to Pack for the Zoo
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Safe Travels,
