Experience a Quintessential Midwestern Fall in Lawrence, Kansas

Have you ever dreamed of experiencing a classic autumn season, filled with colorful leaves, trips to the pumpkin patch, and spooky Halloween fun? Look no further than Lawrence, Kansas, an inclusive gem of a city located just 45 minutes from Kansas City International Airport. 

If there’s one thing the Midwest excels at, it’s making the most of having four prominent seasons in a year. Lawrence comes alive with the arrival of crisp fall air. Here, the start of September means massive fields of sunflowers blooming. By the end of the month, large round pumpkins are ripening on the vine and ready to be picked and carved into jack-o-lanterns. October in Lawrence is synonymous with spooky season, and the city is more than happy to embrace all things haunted. Here are our recommendations for where to go and events to attend to make the most of fall in Lawrence, Kansas.

Outdoor Activities

If you’re able to arrive in early September, check out Grinter Farms. You’ll be able to walk among thousands and thousands of tall, beautiful sunflowers, and it’s quite the photo opportunity. In October, visit Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch to pick your own pumpkin right off the vine. Go for a walk in Old West Lawrence to view old, architecturally fascinating houses surrounded by red, orange, and golden-leafed trees. The colorful campuses of the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University are also worth a visit.

Dining and Shopping

Make plans to enjoy Massachusetts Street, the heart of Downtown Lawrence. This main thoroughfare is home to countless locally owned restaurants, shops, and bars. If you stay at the historic Eldridge Hotel, you’ll be right next to the action. Ask the folks at the front desk to tell you a few ghost stories, if you dare.

Do some shopping at Waxman Candles for artisanal and funky seasonal candles shaped in all things fall, from mushrooms to spooky bats. 1313 Mockingbird Lane is the resident vintage and modern toys & collectibles store, and they go all out for the Halloween season. Raven Book Store is a cherished independent bookshop with an LGBTQIA2S+ book section that holds regular literary events celebrating local authors. Stroll down the block to Wonder Fair to stock up on spooky stickers, give resident cat Dave a scratch behind the ears, and visit their iconic Haunted Bathroom.

After you finish your shopping, dine at Merchants Pub & Plate for elevated farm-to-table eats and seasonal specials. Grab a nightcap in the form of a cocktail at one of the Lawrence PRIDE organization’s favorite haunts: Henry’s Upstairs. If cocktails aren’t your speed, visit Sylas & Maddy’s homemade ice cream for a waffle cone of one of their fall flavors, such as Apple Pie.

Not-to-Miss Events

Haskell Indian Art Market - September 7-8

This one-of-a-kind event showcases original, handmade items made by Native American artists from across the country. Browse tables laid with jewelry, paintings, pottery, and sculptures, grab lunch or a snack at the traditional food vendors, and be sure to stick around for the entertainment and performances happening throughout the day.

Art in the Park - September 14-15

Art in the Park is a fine arts and crafts event held in gorgeous, shade-filled South Park on the south end of vibrant downtown Lawrence. With over 130 vendors, 15 musical groups providing live music, and several food and craft beverage vendors, this is a Lawrence event not to be missed.

Nightmare on Mass Street Halloween Pop-Up - October 3-November 3

Featuring live music and events, themed drinks, spooky eats, and plenty of photo ops!

Lawrence Zombie Walk - October 17

A beloved and theatrical Lawrence tradition: the dead are invited to rise from the grave and join the 17th Annual Lawrence Zombie Walk on October 17 in Downtown Lawrence. Grab your face paint, fake blood (or ketchup), and your costumes. At sundown, the dead will walk.

Enjoy the perfect, quintessentially midwestern fall in Lawrence, Kansas! Learn more about the city and the attractions featured above at https://www.explorelawrence.com/.