Things to Do in Topeka (2025)

Topeka’s pioneering brewpub pairs scratch cooking with nationally decorated beers. Local outlets like WIBW and TK Business Magazine spotlighted its World Beer Cup wins, underscoring two decades of consistency and community support. Settle in for a sampler on the deck.

A chef-led, reservation‑friendly dining room in a historic building, noted by Visit Topeka for elevating the city’s fine-dining scene. Seasonal tasting menus and intimate wine dinners make it a polished capstone to a downtown evening.

Family-owned brewery where community programming is part of the draw—cocktail classes, bingo, brunch, even pickleball. Regularly covered by Visit Topeka and WIBW for seasonal pop-ups. Bring a crew and plan to linger.

Retro bowling lanes and vintage arcade games meet burgers, shakes, and cocktails on Kansas Avenue. Featured by WIBW’s Fork in the Road and embraced by local guides, it’s an easy all-ages pick downtown.

NOTO’s beloved grilled‑cheese bar with craft beer and a community‑minded patio. After a 2025 crash, WIBW chronicled its fast, neighbor‑powered reopening—proof of strong local ties. Ideal pre‑ or post‑First Friday stop.

Family-run chocolatiers crafting truffles, toffee popcorn, and caramel apples downtown. Offers tours and tasting experiences; frequently highlighted by Visit Topeka and regional business media. A sweet, hands-on detour off Kansas Avenue.

Independent bookstore with espresso, beer and wine, and a steady lineup of readings and open mics. Kansas Authors Club hosts events here, keeping NOTO’s literary pulse strong. Warm staff, thoughtful shelves.

Longtime local studio where you can design a sun catcher or mosaic and take home your own piece. Schedules posted by the studio and featured during ArtsConnect’s First Friday. Colorful, approachable, and memorable.

Artist-led ceramics studio in NOTO offering wheel-throwing nights, date-night classes, and workshops. WIBW covered its collaboration with Capper Foundation artists—another tie to Topeka’s creative community. Reserve early.

A lively creative hub hosting open mics, concerts, and paint‑and‑sip sessions alongside bites and nonalcoholic drinks. Programming is regularly listed by Visit Topeka and covered by local arts outlets. Welcoming, eclectic evenings.

Two floors and 100+ micro-shops spotlight makers, vintage pickers, and small-batch goods. Visit Topeka promotes its festivals and bingo days; the market posts hours and events. Easy to pair with downtown exploring.

Locally run walking tours that blend meticulous history with Topeka’s spookier lore. The operator posts 2025 schedules and partners on special events with local organizations. Call ahead; private groups can customize routes.