15 Best Things to Do in Lawrence, KS

15 Best Things to Do in Lawrence, KS

Explore Your City, Support Local, and Make the Most of Your KU Years

Discovering Lawrence as a University of Kansas Student

Living in Lawrence isn’t just about classes, football games, and late-night study sessions. It’s about immersing yourself in one of Kansas’ most vibrant, creative, and welcoming communities. Just beyond the edges of the KU campus lies a whole world of local flavor, artsy hangouts, vintage finds, and unforgettable vibes. Whether you're craving late-night eats, looking for weekend plans, or just need a new spot to clear your head, Lawrence has something for every Jayhawk.

Here are 15 must-visit spots in Lawrence, KS that every KU student should experience before graduation. All off-campus and full of local charm!

Food & Drink

• 1900 Barker Café & Bakery
  Address: 816 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66046
  Why go: Artisan bakery and café known for sourdough, pastries, and specialty coffee.
  Website: 1900barker.com


• Mass Street Soda
  Address: 1103 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Retro soda shop with over 1,000 varieties of craft sodas and candies.
  Website: massstreetsoda.com


• Lawrence Beer Company
  Address: 826 Pennsylvania St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Local brewery serving craft beers, wood-fired pizza, and patio vibes.
  Website: lawrencebeerco.com


• John Brown Underground
  Address: 7 E 7th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with creative drinks and cozy underground atmosphere.
  Website: freelawrence.com


• Sylas & Maddy’s Homemade Ice Cream
  Address: 1011 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS
  Why go: Local ice-cream spot with fun flavors, waffle cones, perfect treat hangout.
  Website: sylasandmaddysicecream.com

Arts, Culture & Books

• The Dusty Bookshelf
  Address: 708 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Used & collectible books, comics, vintage pulps, and reading nooks.
  Website: dustybookshelf.com


• Raven Book Store
  Address: 809 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Independent bookstore highlighting local authors, poetry, and mystery novels.
  Website: ravenbookstore.com


• Love Garden Sounds
  Address: 822 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Iconic indie record store featuring vinyl, CDs, and live in-store shows.
  Website: lovegardensounds.com


• The Granada Theater
  Address: 1020 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Historic venue hosting concerts, film screenings, and student-friendly events.
  Website: thegranada.com


• Lawrence Arts Center
  Address: 940 New Hampshire St. Lawrence, Kansas 66044
  Why go: Contemporary art exhibits, performance art, frequent shows & community arts; energetic place to see what’s new.
  Website: lawrenceartscenter.org

Shopping & Vintage

• Antique Mall of Lawrence
  Address: 830 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Multi-floor antique and thrift shop with vintage clothing, records, and collectibles.
  Website: facebook.com/lawrenceantiquemall


• Wild Man Vintage
  Address: 939 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Vintage clothing (1940s–1980s), multi-floor store, lots of accessories; unique style finds at decent prices.
  Website: wildmanvintage.com


• Downtown Lawrence Farmers Market
  Address: 824 New Hampshire St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Fresh produce, food vendors, and live music in a lively community setting.
  Website: lawrencefarmersmarket.org

Nightlife & Entertainment

• Gaslight Gardens
  Address: 317 N 2nd St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Outdoor beer garden with live music and a relaxed student vibe.
  Website: gaslightgardens.com


• Replay Lounge
  Address: 946 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
  Why go: Arcade bar featuring pinball, retro games, and a fun nightlife scene.
  Website: facebook.com/replayloungeusa

Explore, Support, Repeat

As a University of Kansas student, your time in Lawrence can be more than getting a degree. Take the time to get to know this one-of-a-kind city. Supporting local businesses, hanging out in community spaces, and stepping outside of your comfort zone are all part of what makes the Jayhawk experience unique. So go solo or grab a friend, try something new, and find your own favorite local spots.

See you on Mass Street 💙

FAQ

• What are the best food spots for KU students in Lawrence? Local favorites include 1900 Barker Café & Bakery for artisan coffee and pastries, Sylas & Maddy’s for ice cream, and Lawrence Beer Company for pizza and brews.
• Where can KU students experience arts and culture in Lawrence? The Dusty Bookshelf, Raven Book Store, Love Garden Sounds, The Granada Theater, and the Lawrence Arts Center are must-visits.
• Are there good shopping and vintage options in Lawrence? Yes, Antique Mall of Lawrence, Wild Man Vintage, and the Downtown Lawrence Farmers Market are great spots for unique finds.
• What are popular nightlife spots for students in Lawrence? Gaslight Gardens and Replay Lounge are popular with KU students for live music, arcade games, and a fun social scene.
• Why should KU students explore beyond campus? Exploring off-campus helps students support local businesses, discover Lawrence’s unique culture, and create lasting college memories.