The Castle of Muskogee: Oklahoma Renaissance Festival
The Castle of Muskogee: Oklahoma Renaissance Festival gateway to another world.
Lindsay and Jo at the Queen’s Tea
“Your gateway to another world.”
*This was a hosted visit. We got free tickets to go have a blast at this event, but we would have gone even if we didn’t get the free tickets.
2024 Season
6 Weekends: April 27th to June 2nd
Saturdays & Sundays (plus Memorial Day)
10:30am - 6:00pm, rain or shine
Top-notch Adventure!
OKRF (The Oklahoma Renaissance Festival), officially known as The Castle of Muskogee, is truly impressive and so much fun. Droves of Renfest fans drive to OKRF each year, and now I know why. You may recognize me as the RN (Renaissance Nurse) from the Medieval Medicine Show. I took this opportunity to take a vacation from musical medicine to visit Castleton. Memorial day weekend, my college roommate, Jo, and I were so thrilled to be hosted at this amazing festival for the chance to write this blog. OKRF was definitely worth the drive. You’ll find so many thoughtful features in this larger, established festival that boasts over 25 years in operation. The cast and other performers are clearly having a blast, too.
Realm
The extensive grounds of Castleton are split into different regions: Bavarian Forest, King’s Highway, Village Centre, Tournament Arena, Castle Keepe (air conditioned), Celtic Quarter (including the air conditioned Cave with bar and stage), Italian Piazza, Castleton Harbour, and The Woodlands. The structures are substantial, some reaching 3 stories, and shade and benches are plentiful. These themed areas feature tons of delightful drinks, stages, and shops.
The King Enjoying the
Pub Sing
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
Jo and I adored the interactive Courtly Dance at the Maypole. Dancing was one of the things that made me a diehard Renfest fan in high school. At OKRF they will help you find a partner and teach you the dance! You can also watch or participate in wrapping the Maypole.
The Human Combat Chess Match gives you the chance to see all your favorite characters fight.
If you came dressed to impressed, try your luck in the Costume Contest or just come and watch.
Be sure to catch the afternoon Joust at 1pm or the Joust to the Death at the end of the day.
We enjoyed fighting one another with realistic, foam weapons at the Sword Master’s Challenge.
In the Royal Quest, children can get stamps on their official warrant throughout the festival and bring it back for a late afternoon audience with the King and Queen.
The Wheel of Death
Tons of stages provide exciting entertainment: music, comedy, juggling, family friendly shows, and more bawdy ones. For incredible feats check out The Wheel of Death, Bob the Incredible Juggler, and Crazy Boy Coy. Laugh with the Washing Well Wenches. For music, check out sämäs, The Jolly Rogers, Wolgemut, Ez ‘n Dil, and cool down in the air conditioned Cave area with Tartanic and Music the Gathering. There were even more groups we didn’t get to see. It was fun recognizing some overlap with Kansas City. Check out the Daily Schedule for current groups, show times, and locations.
There are many exciting vendors to tempt you if you have the shopping bug or want to buy some presents. Jo bought a beautiful new outfit at The Highland Kilt Company and a laurel crown at McNoodles.
There is so much to taste from chimney cakes and funnel cakes to bacon wrapped venison poppers from the Pauper Eatery. There are, of course, turkey legs. We returned to the Cappuccino Inn 3 times in 2 days for refreshing drinks: I loved the Pickpocket (frozen lemonade/iced tea combo), and Jo loved the smoothies.
We purposefully planned our visit to include Memorial Day. This is a popular day with KC visitors. The 3 day weekend allows more time for driving and more days of fun. On Monday, be sure to experience the very moving veteran and family member parade and ceremony honoring Memorial Day.
Schedule and Special Events
OKRF is held for 6 weekends (Saturdays & Sundays) in the spring including Memorial Day from 10:30am - 6:00pm, rain or shine. Confirm current dates, weekend themes, and times on their website.
Castleton really shines with special events. Be sure to buy tickets in advance online, and line up early for the best seats.
Excellent Shopping
Queen’s Tea: as a tea aficionado, I truly enjoyed the 2pm Queen’s Tea. This is a full afternoon tea with 3 tiers of tea sandwiches and desserts. A variety of entertainers will delight tea ticket holders. Queen’s tea was high on my list of experiences at OKRF.
Smoker: a raunchy, rowdy 21+ event hosted by the ladies of the Scarlet Pillow and buccaneers of the harbor for drinks, cigars, and bawdy songs, jokes, games, and pickup lines. (Bring your ID.)
Pub Crawl: have a grand time visiting pubs and being entertained throughout the festival. Keep your commemorative stein. (Bring your ID.)
Castleton Tastings: 21+ event with different tastings like wine, mead, or whiskey on different days; check the website for dates. (Bring your ID.)
Explore the Torture Chamber and Catacombs beneath the Castle and the Ultimate Maze near the May Pole.
In addition to events during the festival day, you can buy tickets to special evening events like The Masque Ball, Pirate’s Feaste, and Ceilidh (pronounced Kay-lee).
The Castle of Muskogee has events at other times: Fireworks, Halloween Festival, Castle Christmas, and Time Traveler’s Ball (New Year’s Eve).
Festival Tickets
RN and Jo seek an audience with the Royals
Confirm current pricing online. Tickets are $5 cheaper if you buy them online. Children, seniors, and students can also get a reduced price. In addition to a one day pass, you can buy a weekend pass, or season pass. This festival is extensive. I would be sure to at least get a weekend pass! 2 days wasn’t enough for me.
If you visit the festival often, consider the limited availability Friends of Festival premier season pass which includes extra features like a private pub, reserved pavilion, special discounts, events, and preferred parking.
Human Combat Chess Match
Tips
Bring cash so you don’t have to spend time at the ATM. Be sure to tip performers at least a dollar when you watch their shows (more is always welcome). Some shops take credit cards, but many tasty food booths do not.
Castleton has its own coins of the realm, real coins that can be used throughout the land. Trade US currency back and forth for these coins at the “Bank of London”. You can also keep them as a souvenir. Angus, featured on the 1 coin, can sell you an extra special coin, if you find him near the petting zoo.
No pets or firearms are allowed at this festival. All blades must be peace tied (so you can’t draw them).
Buy a printed program at the gate for $1 (free online). The Daily Schedule grid in the middle is handy. Identify a few key things you want to see and plan your shopping and eating around that schedule. Make sure not to miss any ticketed events you’ve bought. Aimless roaming is especially fun if you have several days to explore.
Costumes are not required but are encouraged. Most guests at OKRF were in at least some costume or a funny t-shirt. If you don’t have an outfit, you can buy or rent one there. Dress for the weather. By the end of the season at OKRF it can be quite warm. Look for the metal Castleton Medallion to distinguish performers from well-dressed guests.
Prepare to spend a joyful day walking outside: comfortable shoes, layers, sunscreen, bug spray, and even a parasol are recommended.
Stay hydrated! I like to bring a mug with a special belt clip to really get into the spirit (you can buy these onsite or a stein is included in the pub crawl ticketed event). There are drinking fountains across the grounds of Castleton for free water.
While this festival has more infrastructure than many, you should still expect the terrain to be a little uneven. The sweet spot is footwear that is both comfortable and stylish.
Bring a reusable bag for your shopping finds.
I love that smoking is only allowed in designated areas of the festival. However, if you are looking for some raunchy entertainment with drinks and cigars, the 21+ Smoker event is for you. First-time visitors can look forward to special treatment. You might want to prepare a Limerick or joke. You can still participate in the Smoker event as a non-smoker or non-drinker, but you must be at least 21 years old.
You can have a great time on your own, but it’s even more fun with friends or family.
Consider supporting a music group and get some music for the ride home. Buy a CD after a show or from an official download site, like Bandcamp.
Stick around at the end of the day for a pub sing and closing ceremony.
Location
The Castle of Muskogee
3400 W Fern Mountain Rd, Muskogee, OK 74401
4 hours south of Kansas City
3 hours from Wichita, KS
3 hours from Springfield, MO
40 minutes southeast of Tulsa
Jo was able to fly in to Tulsa, and we stayed in Muskogee. There are hotels available near the festival. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express.
Parking at the festival is free or for $10 get VIP parking. I suggest you arrive early for the opening to avoid traffic. Consider VIP parking if you arrive later or want to run shopping out to your car. Get a stamp to return the same day.
*Huge thanks to Jo for helping take photos and videos!
**We were thrilled to get free access to the festival, Queen’s Tea, and Smoker to be able to write this post.
Links
Huzzah!
Central Missouri Renaissance Festival
Central Missouri Renaissance Festival is boisterous fun!
Lindsay entering CMRF
“Most enjoyable mayhem and merriment.”
2024 Season
April 27th & 28th, May 4th & 5th, Oct 19th & 20th
Saturday & Sunday, 10am - 6:00pm, Rain or Shine
A truly fun festival!
The Central Missouri Renaissance Festival is a joy to attend. It’s a great place to perform as well. Small enough to have a true community feel, Central MO doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s easy to see that everyone is having a great time. As a more established festival, CMRF (Central MO RenFest) has a mixture of permanent stages and permanent structures with temporary vendor tents.
Realm
Experience the 1550 A.D. village of Carlingford, Ireland filled with artisans, musicians, pirates, and more. The Cast and Royal court are a hoot. They bring a ton of joy to the festival.
Closing Pub Sing
5 stages provide exciting entertainment: music, comedy, family friendly shows, and more bawdy ones. There are several food options including tasty baked goods and sometimes a pasty (hand-held British pot pie) food truck. There are many exciting vendors to tempt you if you have the shopping bug or need to buy some holiday presents.
Schedule
Central MO RenFest is held one weekend in the fall when it has cooled down around the 8th weekend after labor day (after the Kansas City Renaissance Festival is done). There are also 2 weekends in the Spring, often the last weekend in April and the first in May. Confirm dates on their website or social media. These dates provide an opportunity to wear the fun cloaks, armor, and layers that are less practical at summer Renaissance Festivals.
Tickets and Festival Hours
The gate opens at 10am and the closing ceremony is at 6pm.
Confirm current pricing online. At the time of writing: Festival tickets are a great deal at $15.00 at the gate for adults, children from age 6 to 12 are $10.00, and children 5 and below are admitted free. Season pass: $78.
For those 21+ “Shots Fired with the Queen” Tickets at $30, include festival admission and a very bawdy drinking event with the Queen, including a shot glass. Make sure to bring a designated driver or stay at the faire long enough to recover. Be safe!
Sometimes specials are available: past deals have included discounted tickets available if you bring non-perishable food items for the Fulton United Methodist Food Pantry or Military/EMS/State of Missouri Employee discount.
You can buy your tickets in advance and print them out or purchase at the door.
The Medieval Medicine Show loves CMRF
Tips
Explore the Forest including a Children’s Area
Bring cash. As of now, there are NO ATMS. It’s only proper to tip performers at least a dollar when you watch their shows (more is always welcome). While you can buy some things with credit cards at shops, cash is easier for smaller vendors and is accepted everywhere.
Dress up to maximize the fun! It’s not required, but I love to dress up. If you don’t have an outfit, you’ll be able to buy one there. Renaissance Festivals are typically rain or shine, so dress for the weather. You may want to take into consideration using a porta-privy when planning your outfit.
Be sure to check out the schedule of events for show times. In my obviously biased opinion, be sure to see me as the Renaissance Nurse in The Medieval Medicine Show. Plan your shopping and eating around what you want to see. Eating during less peak times will mean shorter lines and more time for fun.
Dogs are allowed if certain guidelines are followed (see website).
Prepare to spend a joyful day walking outside: comfortable shoes, layers, sunscreen, definitely bug spray, and maybe even a parasol are in order.
Stay hydrated! I like to bring a mug with a special belt clip to really get into the spirit (you can buy these onsite). You will need to purchase drinks as running drinking water is not available.
Consider bringing sanitizer and wet wipes although there are handwashing stations.
The faire is set in open grassy fields and a delightful forest. The terrain can be a little uneven. I found I had some seasonal allergies related to the forest area, so you may want to bring allergy medicine.
Bug repellant, especially for ticks, is also wise. Do a tick check when you are done for the day.
Bring a reusable bag for your shopping finds.
You can have a great time on your own, but it’s even more fun with friends or family.
Use this great opportunity to buy unique gifts and treat yourself.
Consider supporting a music group and get some music for the ride home buy CD after a show or from an official download site, like Bandcamp.
Stick around at the end of the day for a pub sing and closing ceremony.
Location
4274 County Rd 220, Kingdom City, Missouri 65262
Kingdom City is under 2.5 hours east from Kansas City, less than 30 minutes east of Columbia and less than 2 hours west from St. Louis.
I-70, 144/Hatton Exit, South just under 2 miles to the Fairgrounds.
Complimentary parking is located around the festival and is mostly on grass. As with all festivals, be prepared to walk a distance from where you park. Also be prepared for mud if the weather is wet.
I have made the trip from KC as a daytrip several times, but if you can make it work, stay over at a local hotel and make a weekend of it.
Links
Huzzah!
Hermann, MO
Hermann, MO: wine country and so much more!
Lindsay at Copper Mule Distillery overlooking Hermann countryside
Wine country…and so much more
Spend a weekend in Missouri's Rhineland full of German heritage and wineries.
Girls Getaways and Romantic Escapes
Hermann is the perfect place to grab a group of gal pals and hit the wineries or grab your special someone for a romantic weekend. My husband planned us a surprise, magical anniversary escape to Hermann in 2021. We had such a good time, we plan on going again soon for another anniversary. I just came back from a delightful girls weekend at the end of the summer. Hermann also is bachelorette party headquarters.
Tastings, Patios and Stunning Views
Orange, the cat made himself at home in my lap at Adam Puchta Winery
Fill your weekend with wine tastings at Hermann’s many wineries.
For cat lovers, don’t miss the Adam Puchta Winery. Founded in 1855, it’s the oldest, continuously owned family farm winery in the United States, but more importantly to me, it has cats you can pet while sitting outside enjoying a glass of wine (or wine slush) and live music. Enjoy a truly affordable wine tasting, too.
Head over to Stone Hill Winery for an in-depth tasting (choose your own 6 wines from their double sided list). Stone Hill prides itself on their wines that have won over 5,000 medals and awards.
Copper Mule Distillery has the most delicious bourbon slushes, a great balcony view, and gorgeous new inside event space with big wooden beams.
The view from the patio is spectacular at Oak Glenn Winery.
For a great outdoor spot downtown, check out the shared patio between G. Husmann Wine Company and Black Shire Distillery Tasting Room.
Fernweh means wanderlust
More Drinks, Slushes, Food, and Fun
Grab a delicious meal at Fernweh Distilling Co with delicious brisket and smoked pork. You’ll understand why I’m especially attracted to them. Fernweh: from the German meaning wanderlust or literally farsickness, the opposite of homesickness. “We raise our glass to those compelled to live life as the journey it is, who dare to stay curious, and who appreciate fine spirits. Cheers!”
Cool off at Doxie Slush with a flight of cocktail slushes and a dachshund mermaid mascot. I recommend the strawberry amaretto shortcake and the rye berry bramble. Doxie Slush is also one of the few places open late to eat, especially on Sundays when Hermann completely shuts down. Doxie Slush is open on Sundays until 9pm (check current times to be sure). The fish and chips are fabulous with the skinny fries!
Bachelorette Central at the Piano Bar
A visit to Hermann is incomplete without stopping at the Wurst House for a great German Food experience: sandwiches, bratwursts, and the traditional sides.
1837 Cellar Bar has a great atmosphere with patios, live music, and a beautiful historical cellar with a bar (hence the name).
Grab counter service breakfast at Stomp’n Grounds Espresso Bar which includes gluten free and vegetarian options.
For cocktails including coffee cocktails check out The Bank Bar and Bistro or Seek Coffee.
For a great time, arrive early for seats at the dueling Piano Bar or show up later for standing/dancing room.
Transportations
If you plan to drink, find a safe way to get around. Downtown is walkable, but there are some cool things to check out at a driving distance, too.
We had a great experience with Debbie at Lyft You Up Rides. She offers a flat rate for van rides anywhere around the area or an unlimited-ride daily rate. She operates later into the evening than the trolleys and we were able to fit our group, luggage, and a foldable wheelchair inside her van. She went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time. There are barely any (if any) Uber/Lyft options, so Debbie is a great way to get around.
Hermann has a fleet of red Trolleys that you can ride around the local winery and distilleries with a one-day or two-day pass.
Both of these transportation options take cash or Venmo.
Tips
Bring cash or Venmo for transportation. It’s always a good idea to travel with cash for tips and avoid any atm fees.
Hermann has an open container law, so don’t wander outside designated patios with open alcohol.
Plan your activities around the fact that most things close early in Hermann, especially on Sunday. Check the current hours of operation for the places you want to visit and plan accordingly.
Pace yourself and hydrate if you don’t want to feel sick from over-indulgence. Naps are great as long as you don’t miss all the fun.
Hermann has many great seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest, Christmastime, Wurstfest, and Maifest. If you want to stay during those times, book early as things fill up fast.
The weather will make a big impact on whether you can enjoy the many outdoor spaces, so keep that in mind. Remember your umbrella, sunhat, bug spray, waling shoes, water bottle, and sunscreen.
For those with limited mobility be aware, many of the small town shops have a step up to get inside and most of the tastings are held at standing height bars without chairs. The downtown is mostly flat which does make things easier.
There is a clock tower in town that chimes out the hours. If you are a light sleeper, you may not want to book housing near it.
Accommodations
Check out tons of bed and breakfasts, Inns and Airbnb’s for groups of all sizes.
Location
Right on the Missouri River, Hermann is a three hour drive or four hour Amtrak train ride East of Kansas City. Located a one and a half hour drive West of St. Louis.
Links to learn more
“Little Germany” in Missouri.
Smithville, MO
Smithville: Outdoor adventures and more!
Smithville mural
Outdoor adventures and more!
My summer intern, Keira, helped me out a ton this summer. She was able to give us the insider’s look at Smithville.
Smithville Lake and Small Town Charm
My summer intern, Keira, helped me out a ton this summer. She was able to give us the insider’s look at Smithville.
Smithville offers hiking, biking trails, a public splash park, annual festivals, and swim beaches. The lake is known for boating, fishing, golf courses, and swimming.
Smithville Lake
Restaurants
Shrimp & Crab Ravioli
Keira, her mom, and I really enjoyed dinner at Aroma Bistro. My shrimp and crab ravioli had an amazing cream sauce, and the shrimp were perfect. Keira and her mom enjoyed the chicken alfredo. We saw another table order the house specialty, Ceviche, which comes in the most enormous martini glass. For special occasions you can even get edible gold on your dessert! The space is also available for events.
Other restaurants Keira recommends include Humphrey's Bar & Grill, Chops BBQ, Captains Corner, Kozaks, La Fuente Mexican, 169 Cafe, Westlake Chinese, and Pizza Shoppe.
Special Attractions and Venues
The Smithville farmers market runs June-September.
Check out Ladoga Ridge Winery for tastings (first come first served), entertainment, and special events, White Iron Ridge event space for weddings and other special days, and Raising Rust which in addition to being an event center, they have a photo booth and stage their property for you to take your own photos at their “portrait park” (by appointment only).
Accommodations
Smith’s Fork Campground and Smithville Historical Museum & Inn are nearby accommodations.
Location
A quick 30 minute drive North of Kansas City up highway 169.
Links to learn more
Smithville Historical Museum and Inn Facebook
Outdoor adventures and more!
Check out Chicago
Chicago: so much to see and do!
Wonderful treats at the Russian Tea Time Restaurant “Brunch Tea Service”
I went to Chicago often as a child, but it had been many years since my last visit. I was excited to visit again as an adult. Chicago is a vibrant and diverse city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're into art, culture, food, shopping, or nightlife, you'll find it all in Chicago. My trip in May was filled with rain and wind but also beautiful tulips and plenty of indoor attractions. Being centrally located, Chicago is also a great location for meetings.
Tea Time
I love trying different places for tea. There are a variety of different fancy tea options in Chicago. The best bang for your buck is the Russian Tea Time Restaurant. The brunch tea service is delightful and even better, it’s more affordable than other teas in Chicago. It includes scones, sandwiches, and sweet treats. I recommend the bottomless, house tea (a Russian, Black Currant). Reservations are smart, but I was able to get in without one. I saw several families with young children, men on a lunch break, and ladies celebrating a day out (they added sparkling wine to their tea service).
Other Tasty Treats
Chicago is a great place to eat, known for deep-dish pizza. This trip, in addition to teatime, I met a friend at the Nutella Cafe (so popular you have to wait in line to get inside) packed with Nutella-filled delicacies. I also enjoyed a great breakfast at Yolk, a tasty breakfast chain, and a delicious dinner with family at Miller’s Pub. Try them all! You won’t be disappointed.
Tiffany Stained Glass at the Chicago Cultural Center
Museums and Attractions
Chicago is packed with world class museums. On my most recent trip, I enjoyed a whirlwind visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it. I highly recommend the Thorne Miniature Rooms (for all ages) and the Impressionists. Learn about art from across the world and throughout time. Spend a little time gazing at the gorgeous Tiffany stained glass window. You can find more Tiffany stained glass and mosaics at the Chicago Cultural Center. As a child I loved to learn about natural history at the Field Museum (especially SUE the T-Rex), engaged hands-on at the Museum of Science and Industry, and ventured under the sea at the Shedd Aquarium. Even people who don’t consider themselves interested in architecture recommend a Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour. (It’s been a few years since I went on it, so I don’t have a particular one to recommend.)
Shop ‘til You Drop
Chicago is a shopper's dream. You can browse the upscale boutiques and department stores along the Magnificent Mile or discover some hidden gems in the neighborhoods. You can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry to quirky souvenirs in Chicago. I got my husband a souvenir, funny taco cat shirt. (Did you know taco cat backwards is taco cat?)
Catch a Show
Online, I was able to get day-of, cheap, nose-bleed seats at the beautiful Nederlander Theater to see Into the Woods. What fun!
At least a rainy day makes for great pictures of mist topped skyscrapers
Transportation
You can get unlimited rides on the “L” (elevated train) and the bus with a day pass card purchased at the station vending machine. You can get from either of Chicago’s main airports on the “L” although it happened to be under construction from O’Hare Airport when I visited, making the route much longer. Chicago is quite walkable, and ride shares and cabs are also available. I’ve heard Chicago can be challenging for cars, especially finding and affording parking.
Location
Located on Lake Michigan in Illinois, Chicago is the 3rd most populous city in the US.
Links to learn more
Museum of Science and Industry
Nederlander Theatre: Broadway in Chicago
Chicago: so much to see and do!
Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival (St. Joseph, MO)
Huzzah for an enchanting new Renaissance Festival!
The Duke who hosts the Festival
“Step back in time”
2024 Schedule
Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19th from 10am-6pm.
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry!
Assuming that “Merry” is great shopping and shows! The Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival started in 2022 with a stellar first season.
Activities
The Medieval Medicine Show
Find here all the activities that you love in Renaissance Festivals: turkey legs, festival food favorites, drinking, jousting, sword fighting, shopping, engaging characters, music, shows, and historical reenactment all in the festival grounds surrounding the Castle. There is a convenient inside bar area and restroom inside the castle out of the sun. Outside you’ll find many food trucks, shopping tents, and the expected port-a-privies.
This RenFest (Renaissance Festival) isn’t set in a particular time of history but covers a wide range of times including fantastical additions like faeries and dragons.
It’s fun to play like a kid: enjoy boffer games (foam sword fighting), a catapult, warhorse rides, axe throwing, and archery. Interact with larger-than-life characters. (Real kids enjoy these features, too I suppose).
I’m entirely biased, but be sure to catch The Medieval Medicine Show! (I’m the Renaissance Nurse or RN in this 2-woman musical, medical comedy show coming to Bluffwoods for 2024!). Your ticket gets you in both days, so no excuses. Laughter is the best medicine (unless you have diarrhea…)
War horse rides are for all ages!
Every RenFest Needs Turkey Legs
Tips
Watch exciting shows
Amazing pricing! Tickets are $15 and function as weekend pass, so try to make time for both days. Kids 5 and under are free.
Buy your tickets in advance on the website to save time waiting in line.
Dress up to maximize the fun! It’s not required, but I love to dress up. If you don’t have an outfit, you’ll be able to buy one there.
Bring cash. It’s only proper to tip performers at least a dollar when you watch their show (more is always welcome). While you can buy some things with cards, cash is easier for smaller vendors and is accepted everywhere.
Be sure to check out the schedule of events for shows and joust times. Plan your shopping and eating around what you want to see.
Prepare to spend a day walking outside: comfortable shoes, layers, sunscreen, bug spray, and maybe even a parasol are in order. Stay hydrated! I like to bring a mug with a special belt clip to really get into the spirit (you can buy these onsite).
While there are a few paved areas the majority of the faire is set in open grassy fields in true festival style.
Bring a reusable bag for your shopping finds because it’s a long walk back to the car.
You can have a great time on your own, but it’s even more fun with friends or family.
Use this great opportunity to buy unique gifts and treat yourself.
Stick around at the end of the day for a closing ceremony.
Location
Castle Bridge Event Center
8403 US-59, St Joseph, MO 64504
St. Joseph is located just over 40 minutes North of the Kansas City International Airport, 30 minutes North of Weston, and about 1 hour North of the River Market.
To find the entrance by car, keep an eye out for the Castlebridge Event Space sign and drive back past the Bargain Barn Antique Store.
Complimentary parking is located around the festival and is mostly on grass. As with all festivals, be prepared to walk a distance from where you park.
Links
Blufwoods Renaissance Festival Website
Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival Facebook
Blufwoods Renaissance Festival Instagram
Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival TikTok
Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival Twitter
St. Joseph, MO Official Travel and Tourism Website
The Medieval Medicine Show Facebook
Huzzah!
Historic Weston, MO
“Visit Historic Weston: and make a little history of your own!”
Enjoying some Wine at Weston Wine Company, our favorite spot in Weston with the Owner, Hannah.
Weston is the best short, day trip outside of Kansas City. We’ve enjoyed visiting for many years. This first post will be an overview, and I’ll feature some of our favorite spots in more detail in future posts.
Getting to Know Weston
We first encountered Weston through O’Malley’s 1842 Pub a truly remarkable Irish Pub. Hang out in the cellar bar 60 feet underground with live music. It is packed for the annual Irish Fest.
Next, we went to a birthday party snow tubing at Snow Creek Ski Area.
But where we really found our home is Weston Wine Company. Hannah puts on a ton of fun events in a great setting with delicious wine. For us, an event at Weston Wine Company is usually the spark for a visit to the broader Weston Area.
Dining
A relaxing time at the Upstairs Tea Room
For dinner, we usually eat at the American Bowman over O’Malley’s for Irish Food, Tin Kitchen for BBQ, or The 640 Pizza and Pints. If you call ahead 24 hours or more, you can get a truly bountiful tea at the Upstairs Tea Room over the Main Street Galleria which provides tea to spare at a great price. Weston Wine Company also has tea parties from time to time among many other special events. Green Dirt Farm Creamery has excellent lunch with a variety of sandwiches.
Weston Stagecoach
To really see all the sites, The Weston Stagecoach Party Bus is the best way to see it all in style and safety. Book early as they often sell out! Stops include: Weston Wine Company, Riverwood Winery, Historic Weston Orchard and Vineyard, Holladay Distillery, Pirtle Winery, Green Dirt Farm, and Main Street Weston. I had a great birthday riding the Stagecoach with friends in 2022.
Book the Weston Stagecoach to take you around town!
Weston Main Street
Main Street
Find plentiful shopping on the quaint main street. Get 25 cent vodka tastings at McCormick on Main (they close early, so plan your day). Stop for cocktails at the Royal Deluxe and gelato at Root Sellers Market both in the Saint George Hotel (a great place to book a room to make a weekend of it). Do a whiskey tasting or buy a bottle or a drink at the Whiskey Snug in the back of the Celtic Ranch store.
Weston Wine Company Location
540 Main St, Weston, MO 64098
Travel and Parking
Weston is a quick 30-minute drive from the north part of Kansas City and 40-45 minutes from the heart of KC.
Some venues have their own parking like O’Malley’s, Green Dirt Creamery, and the Weston Orchard, and the wineries and distillery further out, but most parking is street parking which can fill up during busy times. You can find a parking lot on Thomas Street off Main Street across from the 640 Pizza and Pints.
Links to learn more
Weston Brewing Company (Home of O’Malley’s 1832 Irish Pub, the St. George Hotel, the Inn at Weston Landing, Mandrake Place, and Root Seller’s Market)
O’Malley’s 1842 Pub and American Bowman Restaurant
Tin Kitchen Southern Smokehouse
Main Street Galleria and Upstairs Tea Room
The Royal Deluxe, Root Sellers Market, and The Saint George
The Celtic Ranch and The Whiskey Snug
Historic Weston Orchard and Vineyard
"Visit Historic Weston: and make a little history of your own…"
Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha, Nebraska: Worth the Trip!
Feeding Lola, the adorable, bottomless pit, I mean giraffe
I can’t believe it took me this long to go to Omaha. We spent a beautiful girls’ weekend in October and had an amazing time. We enjoyed delicious food and drink and saw the sights.
Omaha Zoo
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is rightly famous. Don’t miss the “kingdoms of the night” nocturnal exhibit under the desert dome (can I get a dessert dome?), the butterfly pavilion, and the jungle. Most of all, feed Lola at the giraffe encounter in Africa (open Saturdays and Sundays weather permitting). That was the highlight of the trip.
You could spend days at the zoo, but we spent a great four hours.
Don't miss the tapir in the jungle. Looks like a panda-elephant-pig combo to me…
Food and Drink
The best cheesebread ever. Eat it now!
How I love good food! Omaha did not disappoint.
I had the best cheesebread of my life at Noli’s Pizzeria
Delicious mini-shell, smoked gouda mac and cheese with shrimp at Jams in the Old Market
Heavenly breakfast potatoes at Good Lookin’
Fun at Proof: whiskey bar and craft cocktails.
(links below)
Lindsay and friends enjoying whiskey, craft cocktails, and friendly staff at Proof
The Old Market
We spent an enjoyable afternoon exploring the old market. Hollywood Candy is worth a visit. We were pleased with how welcoming Omaha appears to be to the LGBTQ+ community, especially in The Old Market.
Bob the Bridge and Lewis and Clark
We enjoyed a beautiful morning walking along the Missouri River, crossing “Bob” the Pedestrian Bridge crossing between Nebraska and Iowa, and checking out the Lewis and Clark National Park Service Visitors Center (another check on my friend’s national park list).
Lodging
We found great lodging at an Airbnb in Little Bohemia. We picked our spot for its great location, affordable price, and ample space for playing board games at the dining room table and in the spacious living room area. We will have to check out the nearby Omaha Dog Bar next time.
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Location
3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107
Travel and Parking
Omaha is a three-hour drive from Kansas City. Directions include “keep going north for 113 miles”. We rocked out to some good road trip tunes from Spotify.
The zoo has plenty of free parking. The Old Market has paid parking: parking map here. Our other stops had street parking with or without meters (check both sides of the meters for various payment options like coin, card, or app). Our Airbnb had a designated spot out back and street parking. We took an Uber to Proof.
Links to learn more
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Visitor Experiences at the Zoo (feed Lola the giraffe!)
https://www.facebook.com/visitomaha
Pet-friendly Airbnb (good for playing board games)
Noli’s Pizzeria (for the best cheesebread ever)
Jams: an American Grill (Old Market location for delicious gouda mac and cheese with shrimp)
Proof Whiskey Bar and Craft Cocktails
Good Lookin’ (for the best breakfast potatoes)
Hollywood Candy: More than a Store, It’s an Experience
Omaha: Worth the Trip
