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Reading is a great way to continue to learn throughout your life, as well as escape into another world. Finding new reading material is both fun and enlightening, especially when you shop at a local bookstore that allows you to immerse yourself in your favorite genres and authors. Check out some of the best bookstores in Kansas, City, KS, that are worth visiting for your next shopping spree. more Rainy Day Books Rainy Day Books is an independent bookstore that has been in business for more than four decades. This full-service shop carries an array of carefully curated and selected books for all ages and interests. The staff members are welcoming and friendly, and they're always willing to make suggestions and chat with customers about their interests. Along with the books, the shop carries a large selection of boxed and individual greeting cards to help you stay in touch with loved ones. Rainy Day Books also hosts hundreds of author events each year, welcoming a diverse array of successful authors across all genres. You can join the customer loyalty program to save 10 percent on most books available in stock. It's free to join and remains in effect as long as you make at least one purchase every six months. With the selection of books to browse, it's easy to buy new reading material often at this location. Prospero's Books & Media Prospero's Books & Media is a three-level book and media shop located in the Bohemian neighborhood of Kansas City. The store is housed in a structure dating back to the 1890s, and the unique vibe inside the shop fits with the area's historic feel. You can browse more than 50,000 new and used books, CDs, films, and vinyl records to find what you're looking for, or maybe something you didn't know you were interested in experiencing. Customers can also trade in their used books for store credit or cash. Along with offering an extensive selection of books and media, this location has hosted over 2,000 events since it opened in 1997. Head up to the third floor to enjoy a live experience, whether that involves listening to your favorite author read from their latest book or engaging in a discussion about your current reading material. The team at Prospero's invites a diverse array of civic leaders, authors, poets, and artists to share their talents and knowledge. Afterword Tavern & Shelves Afterword Tavern & Shelves is both a bookstore and a restaurant/bar, appealing to the inquisitive—and thirsty—residents of and visitors to Kansas City. This unique location offers a wide selection of books across many genres, while the connected bar serves wine, beer, and cocktails. Patrons can also reserve the bar for a private book club meeting or social gathering. No matter what type of reading material you enjoy, you can find new books to delve into at these Kansas City bookstores. Each offers its own unique vibe and a wide selection of options to appeal to readers of all ages and interest levels. Image via Pixabay

A good burger is an American tradition, and the nation is bursting with great burger joints where you can get a traditional burger and fries or a modern twist on the old classic. Topeka, Kansas, has lots of wonderful restaurants, and among those are a number of burger joints that stand out among the rest. Here are three of the best burger joints in Topeka. more Annie's Place Established in 1986, Annie's Place has earned a place as a special part of the community in Topeka. Annie's Place's provides the community with excellent food and service and a place where people feel at home. With over 23 years in business, this popular restaurant is sure to have a great burger that will satiate your cravings. On the menu, you'll find the fire-grilled burgers section that features options that will have your mouth watering. The Traditional is a seasoned patty with tomato, lettuce, pickle, and onion. You then have the option to add Swiss, pepper jack, cheddar, cheese sauce, or Alouette cheese. You can also choose teriyaki mushrooms, chives, smoked bacon, blue cheese, grilled onions, and guacamole for other toppings. A few of the other burger options include the Cheese and Bacon, Annie's Alouette, Annie's Downtown, Bunless Burger, and the Black Bean and Pepper Jack Burger. When you want an excellent burger and friendly service in a personable restaurant, Annie's Place is the place to be. The Pennant If you like to have a good burger along with some fun recreation, The Pennant has both. You can come hungry or work up an appetite as you enjoy the arcade or the bowling lanes. The arcade has over 50 vintage arcade games, including Galaga, Pac-Man, Pole Position, and Skee-Ball. The bowling lanes offer comfortable seating and plenty of room for your food and drink. As far as burgers are concerned, the restaurant has the traditional American burger, The Pennant Original. Other burgers include the Bacon Me Crazy, Triple Threat, Mighty Mushroom, Bourbonator, Bourbon (Black and Blue), P.B.J., The Wolgast, Burnin' Barbacoa, and Burger Flight. Visit The Pennant for the fun and the burgers. The Burger Stand at College Hill Whether you're looking for a traditional American burger or a new twist on a classic, The Burger Stand at College Hill has you covered. You can enjoy your meal in The Pong Bar or out on the patio. The Pong Bar has a foosball table, pingpong tables, a pinball machine, pool tables, and digital bar gaming, and it's available for private parties when booked in advance. The burger menu features The Classic, Kobe, Black and Blue, Fire, and Smoke burgers. You'll be thoroughly entertained, and your taste buds will thank you for stopping in. These places are some of the best burger joints in Topeka, Kansas. Stop in at one of these fine establishments while you're out exploring Topeka and the surrounding area. You may even choose to have a fun date night and enjoy the burger and fries you've been craving. Image via Pixabay

The geography in Topeka, Kansas, is quite friendly to vineyard owners, creating an environment for the business of grape farming and winemaking. As such, there are quite a few fantastic wineries in the Topeka area where you can relax and taste some delicious wine. Here are some wineries you should visit in the local area! more Prairie Fire Winery Founded in 2008 by Bob DesRuisseaux, Prairie Fire makes handcrafted wines from high-quality grapes. The business has grown to include over 17 different labels. They also started the Kansas Wine Institute to educate interested individuals on the science of grape growing and winemaking. In the Prairie Fire tasting room, you'll be led by a knowledgeable member of the staff through a tasting of five wines of your choice. Choose from a selection of sweet, dry, and semi-dry wines. If you'd like to taste a sparkling wine, book your visit during the weekend. Each testing session lasts about 25 minutes and accommodates a maximum of six people. Slots are available by reservation for $5.40 per person. If you'd like to go in a group of up to 20 people, ask for a private tasting, which starts at $15 per person and can last for up to 2 hours for a more personalized experience. Prairie Fire is located at 20250 Hudson Ranch Road. It's open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Wyldewood Cellars Only a 27-minute drive away from Topeka, Wyldewood Cellars is home to a family-owned winery that has operated since 1995. Wyldewood first produced wine from elderberries, but today, they also make wine from grapes, berries, and other fruit. Grab a group of friends for the wine-tasting experience in Wyldewood. Each session lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. Guests are served a selection of wines with appetizers and a small dessert. Their selection includes semi-sweet wine, sweet wine made from blueberries and blackberries, meads, sangrias, semi-dry, and dry wines. Kosher wines are also available. Wine tastings at Wyldewood are scheduled at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays or Saturdays. Call ahead to make a reservation. Reservations cost $25 per person. Now that you know where to go, put together a tasting party and head out to one of these locations. Your taste buds will thank you. Image via Pixabay

When it comes to a good cup of coffee, Topeka offers lots of options. In and around this part of Kansas, there is no shortage of places to grab a cup of Joe. Whether you want to try a new and notable cafe or go back to your old local favorite, here are some of the best places to grab coffee near Topeka, KS. more CoffeeHead CoffeeHead on 29 th Street Quick Stop Inc is a local shop that offers a sense of community along with delicious coffee and food. Stop by for just a simple cup of coffee or try one of their unique drinks, such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte. You can get all of your favorite espresso drinks here from lattes to cappuccino. The staff also makes a fantastic organic tea and delicious sandwiches to go along with your cup of coffee or tea. Classic Bean You'll find Classic Bean on Fairlawn Plaza in Topeka. This shop was the first espresso café and deli in the local area back when it opened in 1993 and is known for being a wholesome place to meet and hang out with friends and family members. Choose from European Style coffee, cappuccinos, and blended drinks such as a frappé. Juli’s Coffee and Bistro Juli’s Coffee and Bistro on 110 SE 8 th Ave has an excellent mix of coffee and food items on the menu. Juli’s Coffee and Bistro also offers catering options for customers during the holiday season. The menu offers espresso drinks such as mocha, breve, and latte. Also included are delicious fruit smoothies, hot or iced fresh brewed tea, and hot chocolate. For those looking to enjoy a delicious meal along with their beverage can choose a great variety of breakfast and lunch options including breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and paninis. The Steam Engine The Steam Engine is located on 5660 SW 29th St in Topeka, KS. The staff creates high-quality coffee and smoothie drinks hot, cold, or sugar-free. From peach smoothies to vanilla bean frappes, The Steam Engine offers the most to customers in the greater Topeka area looking for a quick energy boost during their daily activities. Make sure get your coffee fix at one of these local shops. Each one has a great selection and well-trained baristas who can create the perfect drink to keep you going.

Winter is strenuous for your vehicle, and taking the time to prepare it for winter can make all the difference when it comes to you and your family's safety. There is no such thing as being overprepared when driving through the winter months, especially when you live in Kansas' northern climate. Here are several steps to take when preparing your vehicle for the bitter Kansas winter. more Stock Your Vehicle During the winter months, you should stock your car or truck with essential winter items you usually wouldn't consider during other seasons. Even if you never have to utilize these additional items, it is always better to have them in case of an emergency. Here's a simple list of essential things to stock your car with during winter: An ice scraper, snow shovel, and a broom. Winter blankets and coats in case you are stranded. Kitty litter, sand, or traction mats in case your car loses traction in the snow. Food, water, a cell phone charger, any medication you are taking, and a first aid kit. Flares, flashlights, emergency markers, and jumper cables. Invest in Snow Tires Tires are your vehicle's most valuable asset when driving in the winter months in Kansas. Tires provide the traction necessary to keep your car firmly planted to the driving surface. When your tires are worn, cracked, or otherwise compromised, they won't perform well in cold weather and can leave you stranded or cause you to have an accident. When preparing your vehicle for winter, your tires should be of the utmost concern as you check them for tread depth, signs of wear, cracks or punctures, or any other abnormalities. If you suspect that your tires may not perform up to winter driving standards, you will want to invest in new tires. Snow tires are perfect for winter driving as they are designed to have as much traction as possible when driving in inclement weather conditions. Some people have a set of winter wheels they swap out yearly before winter, and this is an option to consider for your vehicle. Keep Your Gas Tank Full One thing you don't want to happen is to find yourself stranded in the snow and ice with an empty tank. When traveling through the harsh Kansas winter, it is imperative to keep your gas tank as close to full as possible. This will allow you to run your vehicle and the heat in ten-minute intervals for every hour you are trapped. When you implement this method and have access to the winter blankets and coats you have already packed, you will be protected from the cold for an extended time. Remember to fill up often when driving during the winter months. These are several steps you can take when preparing your vehicle for driving through the Kansas winter months. It's best if you can avoid driving when weather conditions are calling for inclement weather. If you must travel, having your vehicle prepared, planning ahead, and providing yourself extra travel time can help keep you, your family, and other passengers safe. Image via Pixabay

Topeka and the surrounding areas have many locations that attract a wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird watching. The diversity of birds you'll find in Kansas is because of its unique geography. The southeastern part of the state sees a high amount of precipitation and features hardwood forests, while the Western area of the state is part of the High Plains, which doesn't see much rainfall. Learn all about birds on the fly by observing them and taking pictures to capture the moments. more Getting Started Millions of people enjoy bird watching in Kansas. It is an easy activity to do, and it doesn't cost much to get started. Birding is also a great way to spend time outside in the fresh air, and anyone can do it. Topeka and it's surrounding towns offer beginner bird watchers many spots where they can go to see a wide variety of birds. With over 450 different species of birds documented, you will have a good experience learning about each one. Warren Nature Area The Warren Nature Area sits east of Felker Park and has about three miles of trails to explore. This is one of the top spots in the Topeka area for bird watching with its variety of terrain attracting many different bird species. You'll come across tall native grasses, woodlands, and steams, which all offer something unique to explore. Baker Wetlands The Baker wetlands covers 927 acres of diverse Kansas habitats along the Wakarusa River flood plain. It is home to over 278 species of birds with new species still being documented. Baker Wetlands stays open for birding and other activities from dawn to dusk, and visitors are welcome to take pictures. You'll want to visit these wetlands several times a year to check out the different seasons, because each one brings new birds, including some uncommon and rare species. Some that you are likely to see include the Canada Goose, the Wood Duck, the Green-Winged Teal, and the Northern Bobwhite. Lake Shawnee Head to Lake Shawnee to find waterfowl all year round. This lake is home to Bald Eagles, migrant ducks, and osprey. You might even come across an American Cliff Swallow or the American Coot. This bird is also known as the mud hen and commonly mistaken for ducks. Unlike ducks, they don't have webbed feet. Instead, they have broad scales on their lower legs, and they have toes that fold back to make it easier to walk on land. Konza Prairie Biological Station Take the drive from Topeka to Manhattan and visit the Konza Prarie Biological Station. Here, you can observe the Great Blue Heron, Double-Crested Cormorant, and the Great Egret. This area is also home to many other species, including the Eastern Phoebe, the Great Crested Flycatcher, and the Western Kingbird. Kansas has a reputation for welcoming birders from all over. You can connect with other fans of the sport through social media and share information and photos of your experiences. Image via Pixabay

Topeka, Kansas, was founded in 1854, so naturally, it has a rich history. Whether you're a resident or guest, there are likely some places you have yet to visit to learn more about Topeka. Here are some of the best places for an interesting Topeka history lesson. more Great Mural Wall of Topeka One of the spots you have to visit is the Great Mural Wall, a brilliant spot located on Western Avenue. This community project that began in 2007 showcases our residents coming together on a worthwhile project. It isn't just artists who have taken part — everyday people were encouraged to contribute in their own way. Some of the murals include A History of Central Park, Tribute to Grant Cushinberry, and Ad Terra per Agilitas. Each mural depicts a defining moment or person in Topeka's history in vivid colors. Kansas State Capitol No matter where you are in the city, you're just a quick drive away from the Kansas State Capitol. The Capitol is a beautiful building, and it's full of Topeka and Kansas state history, including murals by famous artists, information about members of Congress, and replicas and memorials of important parts of our nation's history. Look for the dome window, the Hall of Native Peoples, and the state constitution. You can also take a guided tour of the building, or go for the dome tour, which takes you up 296 steps to the top of the dome. Kansas Museum of History The Kansas Museum of History is an award-winning museum, and for good reason. This museum showcases the story of Kansas through its exhibits, which includes focused exhibits on the Civil War, early people of the state, trains, African American history, and even about the camps that were set up in the historic days of the city. Many agree that Kansas is the home of the fast-food industry so, naturally, this museum has an entire exhibit set up with a 1950s diner, Harvey House dinner gong, McDonald's sign, and Coca Cola vending machine. This museum takes you all the way through the recent past with a host of items to explore from the 1940s through the 1980s, including a Miss America crown, moon rocks, and President Eisenhower's jacket. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site Perhaps one of the most important pieces of history is the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling that found that racial segregation in schools is unconstitutional. This ruling was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement and continues to be a major piece of Topeka and America's history to this day. At the historic site, learn more about what you may have found in the classrooms before and after the case ruling and what education was like in the age of Jim Crow. You can also get to know more about the NAACP founders and the quest for equality. It's amazing the kind of history you'll be able to find in our great city. The next time you have a free day, visit one of these sites to learn more about Topeka. Image via Pixabay

If you're in the mood for a juicy burger, be sure to check out some of the restaurants serving the best burgers in Kansas City. Each spot offers a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere, along with delicious food and drink options to satisfy every craving. more Grad School KC Grad School KC is a popular place to grab a burger and enjoy a drink with friends. This spot has two tasty burgers on the menu, which are “The Full Ride” and “The Codi Brah.” The Full Ride burger features two juicy patties topped with bacon, sharp cheddar, caramelized onions, lettuce, and tomatoes, while the Codi Brah includes a house-made veggie patty with the same toppings, minus the bacon. Both burgers are served with fresh-cut potato wedges. Other popular menu options include salads, tacos, burritos, pasta dishes, and sandwiches piled high with your choice of protein, cheese, and fresh veggies. Tay's Burger Shack If you enjoy a casual dining atmosphere, head to Tay's Burger Shack. This spot is open daily, serving burger options with hand-cut fries. All the burgers are prepared with organic, grass-fed beef patties, and you can choose from single, double, triple, and home-run options based on the number of patties you want on your burger. Each comes with a standard dress of cheese, lettuce, pickles, and tomatoes, with optional add-ons that include bacon, mushrooms, grilled or raw onions, and jalapenos. This spot also serves hot dogs, available topped with chili or plain, and chili cheese fries. Mason Jar Mason Jar is a spot known for serving brews and burgers in a cozy atmosphere. This eatery is open daily and offers happy hour specials between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. If you're looking for a burger, you'll find a range of options. The traditional burger is topped with all the most popular toppings, while the BBQ patty melt features cheddar cheese, bacon, caramelized onions, and BBQ sauce, served on sliced sourdough. For those who enjoy a burger with a kick, the “All Fired Up” is a great choice, featuring chipotle mayo, pepper jack cheese, and avocado. For a unique twist, try “The Sob,” which includes a patty prepared with ground chuck and chorizo, grilled poblano peppers, crushed tortilla chips, and queso sauce. All the burgers come with fries, while other sides are available. BRGR Kitchen + Bar BRGR Kitchen + Bar has three locations to serve you in Prairie Village and Leawood, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri. The standard patty for all burgers on the menu is a blend of chuck and short rib meat, while other options available include a locally sourced natural steak patty, a ground turkey patty, and a plant-based patty. For an energy boost, try the "Fast Cow," featuring a coffee-encrusted patty, Wisconsin blue cheese, chopped bacon, rosemary aioli, arugula, and caramelized onions, served on a locally baked English muffin. Instead of cooking tonight, head out and enjoy a flavorful burger with your favorite side dish at one of these Kansas City eateries. These restaurants are some of the city's most highly rated, so you won't be disappointed. Image via Pixabay