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Day 1
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1-Day Topeka Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedAug 20, 2025

Topeka in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Topeka, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Topeka offers a mix of American history, culture, and family-friendly attractions in a compact, easy-to-navigate city. Visitors can tour the Kansas State Capitol, known for its striking dome and John Steuart Curry murals, and learn about civil rights history at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park. The city also features unique museums like the Evel Knievel Museum, plus outdoor recreation at Lake Shawnee and Gage Park, home to the Topeka Zoo and scenic gardens.
With favorites like Gage Park, West Ridge Mall, and Pal Indian Cuisine, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like The Burger Stand Topeka and LongHorn Steakhouse so you can get the best taste of Topeka while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Topeka?
  • 2-Day Topeka Itinerary
  • 3-Day Topeka Itinerary
  • 4-Day Topeka Itinerary
  • 5-Day Topeka Itinerary
Visiting Topeka? See our Topeka Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Topeka in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, West Ridge Mall and Brookwood Shopping Center with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Topeka without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 8 hours of your day.
1

West Ridge Mall

3.6
(4118)
•
3.3
(3)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Unfortunately, I cannot give a more positive review of West Ridge Mall due to its declining popularity and the current state of malls in general. While it is better maintained compared to some other malls, it is evident that West Ridge Mall is struggling. The remaining stores, including the original anchor store JCPENNEY, are still reasonably clean and well-kept. It can be an acceptable place to pass time or spend a short while, but it is clear that the mall's survival is uncertain.
I just stopped to take a walk while driving through the area. This mall is in excellent condition and they are even doing work to renovate parts of it. Unfortunately, most of the store spaces are vacant. I hope they can bring it back. I travel all around the country and walk in a lot of malls. Ones this empty are usually falling apart. I wish them luck in bringing this one back. It's a very nice facility.
Don M — Google review
As with the rest of Americas malls, this is no different. A few stores here and there. Not much foot traffic in here. This place brings back memories, I witnessed this being built, I had great memories of this place as well. Friends, family and fun. Anymore it is definitely not that and I’m afraid of what the future holds here. This elegant nails place is nice and they do a good service for your hands and feet
Butch M — Google review
It is not what it used to be back in the early 00s to late 90s. They are trying. I will give them a big they are trying. I do like that they are bringing in small businesses. It could very well be a new hot spot in the up coming years but it definitely needs an uplift? A burst of energy? A pop of... I don't know what it needs but it needs people to be excited about the inside again. I love they are bringing carnivals and rides to the outside, that is amazing.
Kaci — Google review
Visited while in town. Great mall to do to indoor laps. The stores that are still open we're clean and workers nice. Enjoyed Spirit Halloween, has everything you can think of for Halloween. Topsy's was a plus!
Rema Z — Google review
The West Ridge Mall was recently purchased by the owners of Advisors Excel. They have wonderful plans to create different spaces. Office, retail, recreational. They have done incredible things in town ... I trust them to fo a great job with this new project. They have a winning reputation!
Jeff S — Google review
Visited this pet store that was severely neglected. Dog food and water bowls were dry and filthy, with feces and dried vomit in their cages. Ferrets, prone to illness, were kept in open cages without lids, exposing them to potential health risks. Given their similar respiratory system to humans, this negligence puts them at high risk. The conditions were heartbreaking and inhumane, resembling a puppy mill.
Felicia T — Google review
This mall is essentially empty. Unless you are coming here for something in particular that you know is still open I would pass. Particularly, if you are from out of town and don’t know, the mall is dead and there isn’t much of a reason to go at this point. There are many other malls within an hours drive such as Oak Park and Legends which I would recommend much more than this mall.
Laura — Google review
I was a little shocked at how many stores are open and the number of people shopping. Extra disappointed that they are still doing Santa pictures. It does not appear that Santa is behind anything, but he was on break so I can't confirm that. But to each their own. Bath and Body Works was limiting the number of people allowed in their store at a time.
Michelle B — Google review
1801 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS 66604, USA•https://westridgemall.com/•(785) 271-5500•Tips and more reviews for West Ridge Mall
8 min · 4.1 mi
2

Brookwood Shopping Center

4.3
(1573)
Shopping mall
Restaurant
Store
Nestled in the heart of the community, Brookwood Shopping Center is a delightful destination that boasts over 30 diverse businesses catering to both practical and whimsical needs. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher seeking supplies from Wild Bird House or on the hunt for stylish yet affordable clothing at stores like Uniquely Yours and Prairie Trading Company, this shopping center has something for everyone.
Our favorite store is Wheatland Antiques. So much to look at, very nice furniture. Always worth a trip.
Bob — Google review
this place will get you where you need to go . it is clean economical and the staff that works there are all professional...
Nickolas — Google review
We pulled in here to take a break from driving. A big assortment of shops and eateries that are mostly local stores. A simple location where you can get many amenities, services, and great food fare too. Everything from home decor design to spas and other services too. Will need to come back sometime and explore here more
Its L — Google review
Great antique store with a huge variety. Very clean and neat
Sheryl R — Google review
Easy to find with a good variety of services? shopping and dining. Plenty of parking. I appreciate the little things like mail box drop offs. It's nice to have everything I need at one location. #NatsJourneys #NatApproved
Nathanial P — Google review
Decent amount of stores. Dillions is less crowded then others in town.
J B — Google review
Ordered medium on our hamburgers turned out to be rare. Raw inside even cool to the touch. Was in a hurry so we didn't have time to reorder. Took a while for the food to come out in the first place. Staff was semi unorganized. It was not very busy. First time being disappointed there. Maybe an off day. Saturday 5/23, 5:30pm.
Jeff — Google review
This Dillons grocery store has good produce and a good selection of products, is well maintained, has reasonable prices and the staff is genuinely friendly and helpful. There is plenty of parking and it is easy to get in and out. The only negative about this place is the clear decades-old age of the complex. It could use a good renovation to modernize it, but I don't know that the expense would result in increased revenue, so I think it will remain as is.
Jeffrey P — Google review
2709 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66614, USA•https://shopbrookwood.com/•(785) 273-3111•Tips and more reviews for Brookwood Shopping Center
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Travelers
2
Rooms and guests
Rooms
1
Adults
2
Children
0
Travelers
2
8 min · 3.8 mi
3

Kansas Children's Discovery Center

4.8
(979)
•
4.6
(177)
Children's museum
Museums
The Kansas Children's Discovery Center, situated in a wooded park near Topeka Zoo at Gage Park, is an expansive interactive play center designed to ignite creativity and foster a love for learning in children. With over 15,000 square feet of indoor exhibits, the center offers hands-on activities that cover various subjects such as science, art, construction, and more.
This place is awesome. So many fun things and activities. My 6year old granddaughter absolutely loved. It. She's been begging me all day to go back again. She loved pretending to be a vet and working on the play car. Outside she rode bikes and did the zip line. I used the Summer Sunflower App and got in free. I highly recommend this place.
Vegas S — Google review
We LOVE this place and drive from Kansas City to visit regularly with our two little ones. We love all the activities for the younger ages whereas a decent portion of science city in KC is geared more towards older kiddos. This place is so diverse with real life practice stations (shopping, restaurant, vet, doctor, mechanic, etc), STEM learning, outdoor play, sand, music, and even a rotating/changing exhibit that’s always a fun surprise. In recent months, changes were made to the family restroom to add a larger changing table which is wonderful for those mommas visiting with children with differing abilities and levels of independence. There’s a new sensory room (pictured) and a new lactation/nursing room which are WONDERFUL additions and much appreciated by mommas like me trying to juggle a busy toddler and nursing infant. Being able to lock us all in a private, secured space to feed little brother brings so much peace of mind. Thank you to the designers for keeping these details in mind! They're currently undergoing an expansion and we can’t wait to see it all completed! Only wish would be that the outdoor treehouse area would bring back the slide.
Kristi A — Google review
Amazing location! It was busy (and hot out), but we still had such a great time. The outdoor space is so unique and perfect for my nature loving kiddos.
Hannah L — Google review
We had SO much fun here! I have an 18 month old son and there was so much for him to do. We had an absolute ball, the staff was friendly and kind. The play areas were clean and well kept. My son loved the outdoor play area with the tricycles and bike path. Definitely recommend to kiddos and families of all ages.
Whitney M — Google review
This is a great place for children as young as one year old to 10-12 years. Fun activities inside as well as nature exploring outdoors.
MaryTherese S — Google review
We love the childrens discovery center! They just finished their new addition and it has added so much! The new parking lots has added a lot more spaces which is helpful. One thing I love about this place is even when it's busy it doesn't really feel like it because there are so many places for kids to play. My young son loves it we go often. Staff and volunteers are always so helpful and kind!
Kylee B — Google review
Our first time at the discovery center did not disappoint. We have kids ranging from almost two all the way to 10. They all enjoyed it here so much and there was something for everyone to enjoy!! We will definitely return.
Meghan T — Google review
"Can we go back?" Endorsement from 8 year-old and 4 year-old. Didn't get to everything and spent a solid 4 hours playing.
Michelle M — Google review
4400 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604, USA•http://www.kansasdiscovery.org/•(785) 783-8300•Tips and more reviews for Kansas Children's Discovery Center
7 min · 0.38 mi
4

Gage Park

4.6
(3738)
•
4.5
(253)
City park
Nature & Parks
Parks
Gage Park is a beloved gem in Topeka, perfect for those seeking a delightful day outdoors. Spanning an impressive 160 acres, this park offers a plethora of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy picnics amidst the lush landscapes or celebrate special occasions like birthdays in its scenic surroundings.
Best Park in Topeka. Located across from the Topeka Zoo, Gage Park is a popular park in town, best known for the famous mini train that operates there. Loved by locals and visitors alike. Gage Park is spacious and offers many different play equipment options for children and plenty of sitting areas to watch your kids play. Also a great place to enjoy some quiet time in nature. This park also offers a fishing pond, shelter houses that can be reserved and rented, beautiful gardens, areas to walk, a dog park and Blaisdell Pool opposite of the park and zoo. This entire family fun area is a must visit.
Hanna M — Google review
It's a really nice park. There's a train for everyone to ride and a zoo. Visited the zoo alot but haven't in recent years. We took the grandkids last week for the swings. It was fun:) Used to drive by often and see the bears sleeping up in the tree, but I believe they cut it down. They do have the rose garden as well, but everything still needs to blossom, it looked a bit sad when we were there, that time of year. If your in the Topeka area, its a definitely worth a visit. (Didn't get many photos without the kids in them.)
Jeannette K — Google review
This is a large park with a variety of activities on or near the site. It has a nice playground area with benches and some decently sized trees for shade. Within walking distance is a zoo, an amphitheater and a number of walking trails.
Steve H — Google review
This park is a real gem for the whole community. The playgrounds are clean, safe, and fun for kids of all ages, with plenty of shaded benches for caregivers. The picnic areas and shelters are well-maintained and perfect for family gatherings or a relaxed afternoon with friends. Dog owners will love the fenced dog park — roomy, clean, and a great space for pups to socialize. The lakes are beautiful and peaceful, with paved walking paths and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the view or watch the wildlife. The small local zoo is a delightful surprise: animals appear well-cared-for, and the informative signage makes it an educational stop for kids. Grounds and restrooms are kept tidy, staff and volunteers are friendly, and there’s plenty of parking and accessibility throughout. Whether you’re bringing the family, walking your dog, or just looking for a lovely place to relax, this park delivers. Highly recommend for a full day of outdoor fun.
Missy S — Google review
Very beautiful park . Wild life animals are so friendly . A lot of trees . Beautiful flowers , lakes.
Spring B — Google review
Taking my dog to the park. It is a nice place to let him run around.
Nichole W — Google review
Didn’t get enough pictures but we drove an hour to get here and the zoo was amazing! Very well kept and friendly staff. All the animals seemed happy and well fed! :)
Sterling T — Google review
This is a memory from my childhood and being able to take my own child is awesome! I feel safe at this park and love the train and snacks we can pick up while there. Love the work being done as I feel some of it was iffy to let my child go on. Looking forward to the upgrades.
Lauren R — Google review
635 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka, KS 66606, USA•http://parks.snco.us/•(785) 251-2600•Tips and more reviews for Gage Park
5 min · 1.5 mi
5

Pal Indian Cuisine

4.9
(989)
•
4.4
(12)
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
Indian restaurant
Takeout Restaurant
Vegan restaurant
If you're on the hunt for an exceptional dining experience in Topeka, Kansas, look no further than Pal Indian Cuisine. This delightful restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to all palates, featuring a variety of vegetarian, meat, and vegan dishes. Each meal is crafted with authentic Indian spices and fresh ingredients that truly elevate the flavors. From classic favorites like Butter Chicken and Biryani to enticing lunch specials that promise generous portions at reasonable prices, Pal Indian Cuisine has something for everyone.
Amazing! The food is authentic, delicious and full of flavor. The service was great and we feel no need to search for a different Indian Food restaurant. This is our spot for Indian Food from now on.
Dawn C — Google review
I had the chicken tikki marsala, tandoori chicken, and dal tarka (3 entree sampler for $19).. comes with those yummy sauces, rice pudding and naan! To say it was delicious 😋 is an understatement. Everything is exploding with flavor, and they are mindful explaining all the different levels of heat. I ❤️ spicy, so there are no issues with that for me, though! There's also something to be said about eating in a chill, clean, and welcoming environment.. it seems to make already good food taste even better!! Add on a mango Lassi for a cool, sweet treat. It's like a creamy mango smoothie..
Christina L — Google review
Ate here a few times, it is my favorite indian place i have had in kansas. As someone who grew up with an indian family, i am very well acquainted with this food and here it is spot on. The chef Mohinder Pal is a critically acclaimed chef recognized by many publications and such, and for good reason. The portions are generous and the taste is authentic, very flavorful. I enjoy spicy foods, the spice is there but it doesnt overpower the dish. We had the chicken tiki masala, beef vindaloo, veg samosas, garlic naan, and masala chai. The staff and Mohinder are very kind. He took my order and as i waited, i had masala chai, and he refilled it before i left without me asking. Highly recommended to anyone who has or never had indian food. If this is your first time, eat here so you know what indian food is, and you arent eating some americanized indian buffet or something. I live in Lawrence but anytime i am in topeka, i try to find an excuse to make my way to Pal’s. Thank you Mohinder and staff for all you do, wish you were in lawrence!
Max — Google review
My son found this treasure of a place. The food is absolutely delicious. You definitely can tell it was made with love and that the owner takes pride in making sure you fall in love with it. It's authentic and full of flavor. Every bite take you to a far away land. I highly recommend it and even though we live over and a half away from Topeka, we will definitely make a trip especially to eat there again. Thank you!
K R — Google review
This is one of my favorite lunch spots in Topeka. The sampler fills you up and even have some left for later. Pal’s cooking is perfect and the flavors are always great! Would recommend trying something new every time you go there because you can’t go wrong with it.
Muditha K — Google review
Wonderful service and great atmosphere. And yummmmm. It was very very good. The cashier was very kind and you could tell she likes her job. Cook did amazing and they were both just very kind and social. Wait time for the food was very quick. The smallest portion could be 2-3 servings. It feels pricy but they give you a generous serving. worth it to try, and to return. If its 2 people order one meal like I said they give you a generous portion.
Lenard L — Google review
Pal is THE REAL DEAL. If you love Indian food, you can’t go wrong with anything you order. He was a chef at my old company, and lines of 50+ employees at a time would form for his station. I’m thrilled that he has his own restaurant, and that his food is as good as I remember. I’m not going to fault a busy restaurant owner on “atmosphere,” as this is likely primarily a take-out place. He’s doing what he can with sturdy paper plates. The staff will even bring your food out to you! Whatever you order… you HAVE to try the Gobhi Manchurian! You’ve never known cauliflower could knock it out of the park (and be spicy) until you’ve had that!
Jason S — Google review
I love love love authentic Indian food! I especially appreciate the owner for coming to our table to make sure all was well. He chatted with us for a while and brought out some mango ice cream for us to try!
Naketa L — Google review
2620 SW 6th Ave Ste B, Topeka, KS 66606, USA•https://www.palindiancuisinetopeka.com/•(785) 215-6333•Tips and more reviews for Pal Indian Cuisine
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Where to eat

Under a 1-minute walk from Brookwood Shopping Center, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.

The Burger Stand Topeka

4.5
(1994)
•
4.5
(219)
Permanently Closed
$$$$affordable
Hamburger restaurant
The Burger Stand in Topeka offers a laid-back atmosphere with an industrial setting, serving up gourmet burgers and hot dogs alongside unique sides and a full bar. The menu features a variety of burger options, such as The Classic with Vermont white cheddar and locally grown greens, or the Greek Burger topped with sun-dried tomato and olive tapenade plus feta cheese.
Absolutely love this place! THE best burgers you'll find anywhere! I always get the Kobe burger and it is divine! We got a basket of poutine fries to share. It was huge! You cannot go wrong with anything you order here tbh, and you will not leave hungry. Everyone was super friendly, and we were treated like we mattered!
Angie C — Google review
The burger stand is a great and freshly made. I chose the poe boy with no bun. They put it on a bed of lettuce. Perfect! We had a large party of 11 and they allowed us to put tables together to accommodate our group. And this time servers actually came to our table to see if we needed anything. We had s grew time. Oh, and don’t forget to try the duck fat fries!
Tiffany C — Google review
We had a great time here!! The Atmosphere was so awesome. Great service from our awesome server. The menu may be smaller then some places but the taste is absolutely worth it. No need for much else. They have some really great sauces as well that are all made in house. The Pickles on the sause bar were so good with some great seasonings. Simon you have a great place and if we make it up towards Lawrance we will definitely check out your other businesses. Thanks for such a great lunch experience. The smoke burger was so delicious and the Fries tasted sooooooo good with the bacon crumbles.
Jay J — Google review
This place is the most expensive burger place I have ever been to. The burger was really bad, I ordered a medium burger and it came out nearly rare. They got my step-dad's order wrong, he wanted a hamburger, but the lady at the stand taking the order put in for a cheeseburger. Not only was this the most expensive burger place I've been too, but you had to get your own drinks, get your own food, get your own condiments. They add 15% gratuity to every check, and then have the audacity to ask you for a tip while ordering, before you even get your food.... 85 dollars for 3 adults and a kid.... Never going back there. It was awful. I have no problem getting my own stuff, but if you are asking for a tip and adding gratuity on the bill, you better be doing something to help me, which they literally did nothing.
Chase W — Google review
We dined in, staff was super helpful as it appeared we didn’t know how to order etc. Ended up getting a chx sando (Barnyard Bash) and it was good. The bun was light and not like a greasy brioche bun, so that was cool. The chx was cooked well, delicious choice. Also grabbed a special, the El Royale..not like on Pulp Fiction, but this was a double patty (2x4oz), onion-bacon jam, thousand island love fest in between some bread. It was tasty, but I might have liked a full size patty in there next time. Also had some truffle fries, so rich and delicious. Compared those to the poutine fries, and the truffle fries won. Poutine isn’t easy to master! Great beer selection, lotsa local brews on draft..maybe if I had to complain, they should get a couple more blondes in the beer selection. I’ll definitely go again to this place; looks like it would be a lot of fun for a later dinner and even the trivia night.
John F — Google review
This restaurant offers excellent burgers gourmet fries and adult beverages. Burgers are cooked to order, and are just amazing. I had a classic burger paired with bacon cheddar fries and loved it. For condiments they have seven different types of dips and house pickles. You could be a little crowded in a little noisy here. But it's worth the trouble. Edit: I have not been to this place since it relocated to Brookwood shopping center.
Scott A — Google review
We had a smoke burger, the holy jalapeño made with grilled chicken and truffle fries. Everything was recommended by the gentleman behind the counter. The food was excellent we planned on taking some home but ate it all. The chicken was juicy not dry and many extra sauces available if needed. Michael was the very knowledgeable bartender who recommended a couple of local IPAs my husband enjoyed. I enjoyed the old fashioned. He just received a smoker machine and I was lucky enough to be one of the first ones to try a lightly smoked old fashioned. Oh my wish, I lived closer to the Burger Stand! I would be a regular!
Jennifer E — Google review
WOW😱😱 haven’t lived here in 20 yrs & thought why not ck out one of the new restaurant… was very impressed by the flavors for the burgers we ordered. Very large area didn’t feel over crowded & if you want you can eat outside 👍. Have games if your feeling lucky outside ❤️. I would highly recommend stopping in & checking it out👍❤️.
Diane — Google review
2833 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66614, USA•https://www.burgerstandrestaurants.com/•(785) 783-8900•Tips and more reviews for The Burger Stand Topeka

LongHorn Steakhouse

4.4
(2064)
•
4.1
(143)
$$$$affordable
Steak house
LongHorn Steakhouse is a delightful casual dining experience that captures the essence of American cuisine in a charming ranch-style setting. Known for its expertly grilled beef and an array of other hearty dishes, this steakhouse offers something for everyone, from appetizers to desserts. Guests can indulge in mouthwatering options like burgers, chicken, and even seafood while enjoying a warm atmosphere perfect for family dinners or special date nights. One recent visitor shared their joy about finally having a night out with their partner without the kids.
What a wonderful meal. So delicious and decadent. Should have taken photos of our Wild West Shrimp so delectable, crispy and flavorful. Tender perfect steak and sides. Wonderful crisp salad. Delicious loaded baked potato. Dessert is equally spectacular. Willie is an incredible server. Old school hospitality. Very well run restaurant.
Christina J — Google review
This was the first time in forever that my husband and I were able to go out to a nice dinner just the two of us without the kids. It was a great night. Our server, I think her name was Dani, was attentive but not to much to interrupt the meal. She made sure we had everything we needed and seemed genuinely sweet and patient. I can be hard to decide what I want sometimes and she was helpful in making an appetizer choice and was just as excited as I was when she brought it out. The atmosphere was great. Lighting was perfect with for me, I have some issues with sensory so bright lights are rough on me. It wasnt to loud, there was conversation but not so loud as to interrupt our conversation. Food was phenomenal, but then again it's Longhorn, is it ever not?! I had a wonderful time this evening. Thank you to our server and the wonderful team up there.
Alexa P — Google review
Danni was our server. Sorry if I didnt spell her name correctly. The food was brought out at the right times so we could enjoy every dish. The Brussel sprouts were amazing. Can't stop thinking about them. The meat was cooked to perfection! I like mine rare. Sorry I never can take a photo until I've enjoyed some. The lobster was not tuff and so delicious with the butter. Our server was a delight and didnt make us feel rushed even tho we came in an hour before close. It was our anniversary and we got a flat while heading to wanamaker for red lobster but the website said they close at 9. Longhorn took great care of us and made the evening wonderful.
Jodi H — Google review
Our food was so good and our waiter was the best.
Missy S — Google review
We waited 15 minutes to receive our salads, our food arrived two minutes later. Our drinks were empty and never offered refills. Prior to the salads arriving, we were contemplating leaving. The manager visited all tables around us, but never stopped by ours. I’m sure she didn’t want to hear what we had to say about the subpar service. The server blamed the kitchen; however, all tables around us received their food timely. I have higher expectations for Longhorn than this - I would never recommend this location, especially our server!
Deanna D — Google review
We had the best time ever tonight. We celebrated our sons 38th Birthday and it was so nice between the Bread and the Food and the Great Service it was Perfect.
Kimmie O — Google review
The food is AMAZING!!! Steak- amazing. Baked Potato- amazing. Bread they bring to the table- amazing. Asparagus- amazing. They also have mr.pibb to drink and it's really good. The staff are amazing and so is the management. 10/10 recommend. :)
Lexie B — Google review
Jenny was our delightful server. She was welcoming, efficient, and patient. She ensured we received all we'd ordered, pleasantly correcting any misunderstanding. The Wild West Shrimp is a family favorite, and the Parmesan Spinach Dip was also creamy deliciousness. Our steaks and burger were cooked to perfection as ordered, and the sides were tasty. The Brussels Sprouts were heavy on the dressing, but an interesting combination of honey and smokiness as advertised. The mango margarita tasted fresh and the old fashioned was strong and very good. We had a few bites of the caramel and candied pecan cheesecake, which was cold and delicious- but we were too full to eat it all. We'll enjoy all our leftovers! It felt a bit crowded trying to get in and out of our booth, with large parties next to us, but everyone was in a celebratory mood, which was nice.
Barbara V — Google review
1915 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS 66604, USA•https://www.longhornsteakhouse.com/locations/ks/topeka/topeka/52…•(785) 228-9900•Tips and more reviews for LongHorn Steakhouse
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Blackbird Espresso Bar and Bistro

4.6
(636)
•
4.5
(29)
$$$$affordable
Coffee shop
Nestled in the heart of Topeka, Kansas, Blackbird Espresso Bar & Bistro is a beloved local gem that coffee enthusiasts simply adore. This charming café offers an inviting atmosphere where patrons can savor expertly crafted beverages like their renowned chai tea latte, which boasts a delightful balance of flavors. The menu also features tempting treats such as moist cinnamon coffee cake and delectable muffins that perfectly complement your drink.
From a Lawrence native’s perspective, this place provides a great reason to stop by if you’re in Topeka! The coffee (Iced Vanilla Latte pictured) was great, the Chicken Pesto Sandwich was also great, and the atmosphere was excellent. It was a great place to work for the 2 hours I was in Topeka. Definitely a recommend from me!
Jackson Y — Google review
Wow—can’t believe we’ve been missing this spot all these years! Tucked into Gage Village Shopping Center, this hidden gem has actually been around since 2010, but my wife and I just discovered it. Honestly, we thought it was new! Inside is spotless and welcoming, with a relaxed vibe. Staff was super friendly, and from our bar seats we had a clear view into the kitchen—also very clean. We ordered a Latte, a Mocha Latte, Chips and Guac, and two sandwiches: the Pesto Chicken Panini and the Smoked Salmon BLT. Everything was fresh and flavorful. This is officially our new favorite local coffee stop. Hard to believe it’s been hiding only a few miles from home all this time!
Ronald J — Google review
What a find. Coffee was good…but the scone was fabulous. Sure it’s an espresso bar, but why not lead with what they are best at and call it Blackbird Bakery and Espresso Bar. My scone was the apple cranberry and seriously one of the best scones…If not THE best scone I have ever tasted. Try it.
Dean E — Google review
Food was quite good for a little coffee shop in a strip mall. Would highly recommend and will absolutely be returning. We have already once in two weeks!
Nicholas H — Google review
Nice, cozy coffee spot with some excellent coffee and tasty fare from wraps and paninis, to sandwiches and pastries. Loved the delta blues with my dark roast cafe and butterscotch Blondie. Plus you encounter some fun surprises.
Jason L — Google review
Blackbird is a treat! I was hunting for good coffee, and ended up finding far more, in the best possible ways. I am thoroughly impressed. Not only was the coffee delicious, but the food that we got was phenomenal! The atmosphere is being newly remodeled, and I can't wait to see what it looks like completely done. Very laid back, and easy to just enjoy the comfort. Great lighting, and plenty of seating. I was extremely surprised that this lovely place also has liquor and beer as well! Even beer on tap! The staff was friendly, funny, and down to earth. The type of folks you could easily chat with about anything. Also quite knowledge about the ongoings of this shop. Absolutely looking forward to coming back and trying out more of the food and drinks.
Ash — Google review
This place has such a chill, positive atmosphere and lovely service! It made for the perfect mother/daughter lunch date! They also serve their breakfast menu all day and the Mercato Croissant was absolutely delectable!
Kyla A — Google review
Was my first time here and the staff was friendly and happy to help with any questions I had. Food is great and fresh.
KoKo F — Google review
4025 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604, USA•(785) 271-8188•Tips and more reviews for Blackbird Espresso Bar and Bistro

Chez Yasu

4.6
(251)
•
4.4
(140)
$$$$very expensive
French restaurant
Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Topeka, Chez Yasu is a delightful neighborhood bistro that transports you straight to the charm of a French country cottage. With its inviting wooden storefront, this cozy eatery offers an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying classic French cuisine. Under the expert guidance of Chef Yasushi Hatasawa, guests can indulge in a menu filled with authentic dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients.
Chez Yasu is one of the top 3 fine dining restaurants in Kansas. The flavors are fresh and bring your taste buds to life! We have been a few times and they absolutely earn 5 stars and are highly recommended.
Jim J — Google review
First time to eat here. Bagett was insanely good! Dover sole was good but very disappointed with the beef medallions, which should not have been served. They were full of gristle and a very low quality cut of meat. I simply couldn't believe a chef would have served that poor of quality. Mashed potatoes were good and good selection of wine. We would try it again but check for meat quality and send it back.
Mike S — Google review
Our server, a young man, was very attentive and kind. The food was delicious. For the expensive prices, the interior needs updating and cleaned up. The restroom floor was very sticky and needed cleaned. Establishment needs attention to cleaning and freshening up detailing. Your prices are quite expensive for this city, the menu was limited ... the place should be clean and reflect those factors. I had never been there to eat. It might be awhile before I go back, or recommend until they freshen up the physical building, i.e., internal anesthetics.
Jeff S — Google review
Finally decided to try this restaurant. Wish we hadn't. The food was below par for French cuisine. The wait staff was pleasant enough and the atmosphere was quaint if a bit dated. Dishes ordered: appetizers crab cake and scallops. Crab cake was ok but lacked some flavor. Scallops were very small as if they'd been halved before cooking. Decent flavor though. Main course salmon in butter sauce with mashed potatoes and candied carrots & braised beef short ribs same sides. Presentation was alright... both mashed potatoes were horribly prepared. Waitress stated the chef was new and poured the cream way too fast. Very runny and lacked any flavors I could even taste. The candied carrots were not candied just boiled with a pinch of sugar. Main dishes: salmon was cooked properly but lacked any flavor other than butter we could detect. The braised short ribs were in an overly scorched in red wine sauce that was not seasoned well. Two peices of ribs were also a bit tougher than the others. Waitress gave us a complimentary plate of shrimp and mushrooms and dessert as well trying to make up for the meal. Those were actually good. Overall I'd say new chef hasn't quite got the hang of it just yet or had a very bad night. Do not recommend personally. Bill was around $200.00.
Ken S — Google review
My family recently held a party here for 30 people and I could never adequately express how wonderful John was to work with from start to finish. John's communication and flexibility was next level and the staff on the night of our event was accommodating, showed real care, and were on point. If you have an upcoming small dinner party to plan, I highly recommend Chez Yasu!
Lindsey K — Google review
Why haven't we been here before? We found Chez Yasu by looking for restaurants in Topeka. This one is well off the beaten path and it's camouflaged within a residential area. Don't let the outside appearance of the building fool you, there's delicious French cuisine inside. Seating is limited as are the hours of operation. We got lucky that it was a slow day and we did not need reservations. The food had good flavor and the service was great. We ordered the lamb chops and the beef ribs with a couple of drinks. We will keep Chez Yasu in mind when we return to Topeka.
Rafael F — Google review
My wife and I have been eating here for gong on 25 years. Last dinner was August 23, 2025 the food was excellent and service outstanding and friendly. The atmosphere is friendly like a small Paris cafe.
Barbara H — Google review
First time here and the food was really delicious. Will definitely be back. I had a crab cake for the appitizer and the salmon and seafood crepe with potatoes and carrots for dinner. Topped off with a Cabernet some nice gentleman bought for me and I also got a Moscato.
Janice H — Google review
2701 SW 17th St STE B, Topeka, KS 66604, USA•http://www.chezyasufrenchrestaurant.com/•(785) 357-1003•Tips and more reviews for Chez Yasu
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What's the weather like in Topeka?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Topeka for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Topeka in January
  • Weather in Topeka in February
  • Weather in Topeka in March
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All road trips from Topeka

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Explore nearby places

  • Topeka
  • Lawrence
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All related maps of Topeka

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Topeka throughout the year

  • Topeka in January
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Day itineraries for nearby cities

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