Perched on some of the biggest hills in Kansas, Lawrence is one of the Midwest’s most progressive cities. Anchored by a top research university and a thriving downtown, the city of nearly 90,000 is a leader in sustainability that maintains its neighborly, small-town charm.
Sleeping
The Eldridge Hotel
This historic, locally owned downtown hotel uses CFLs and motion-detector lights to conserve energy. 701 Massachusetts St. (800) 527-0909
The Halcyon House Bed and Breakfast
Built in 1885, this European-style B&B is surrounded by luxurious gardens. Halcyon House purchases renewable energy to help offset its carbon emissions. 1000 Ohio St. (888) 441-0314
Exploring
University of Kansas
With almost 30,000 trees covering 1,058 campus acres, KU is the city’s green heart. KU’s Center for Sustainability weaves green living into curriculum, student life and campus-wide initiatives. 1502 Iowa St. (785) 864-3911
Clinton Lake Trails
Bike or hike more than 50 miles of path near beautiful Clinton Lake. The Kansas hills present tough eco-adventures for the willing. 872 N. 1402 Road (785) 843-7665
Eating
Pachamama’s
Upscale, seasonal fare includes local greens, herbs, fruits and meat. 800 New Hampshire St. (785) 841-0990
Local Burger
Feel good about fast food. Chow down on local beef, elk, turkey, buffalo, tofu or veggie burgers at this hip downtown burger joint. 714 Vermont St. (785) 856-7827
Nice Café
Savor a fresh meal at Nice Café, inside the Casbah Market. Organic juices and teas complement the local offerings. Try Jamaican-style patties over rice and peas. 803 Massachusetts St. (785) 842-4085
Free State Brewery
One of the first breweries in Kansas, Free State’s range of seasonal beers is produced onsite. Locals refill half-gallon glass “growlers.” 636 Massachusetts St. (785) 843-4555
Shopping
Massachusetts Street
This five-block stretch leading to the Kansas River hosts the city’s best shops, restaurants and bars.
Intrigue Home Furnishings
Kelly and Pat Matthews scout beautiful, sustainable, fair trade items from the Philippines for their store. 933 Massachusetts St. (785) 856-4432
The Community Mercantile
This thriving cooperative market buys directly from Kansas farmers. The Merc labels its local products so you know how far they’ve traveled. 901 Iowa St. (785) 843-8544
Blue Sky
This local home store offers sustainable building materials, household products and energy systems. 920 Massachusetts St. Suite 1A (785) 856-2583
To learn more, go to the visitor information center, 402 N. 2nd St., call (785) 865-4499 or visit www.visitlawrence.com.
Kim Wallace