Trail Days Cafe and Museum

We visited the Trail Days Cafe and Museum on July 31, 2025 after a recommendation from the attendant at the Kaw Mission. We arrived around 4:50 pm with modest expectations since we were just passing through Council Grove using the Sunflower app—but what a surprise!
We were greeted by the owner, Mr. McClintock, who welcomed us warmly and shared rich stories spanning from the Santa Fe Trail era to the present while showing us the café. He then called his wife, Mrs. McClintock, to guide us through the rest of the museum. She was exceptionally attentive—especially with our kids—and led us on a memorable tour of local history, including a thoughtful bison exhibit.
What we thought would be a quick stop turned into two hours of learning and delight. This place far exceeded our expectations. If you’re anywhere near Council Grove, KS, make time for this gem. Highly recommend!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We had a delightful time, speaking with the owner of this restaurant, a very interesting gentleman with lots of great stories. Food was delicious and home-cooked. Beautiful little spot.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

It's a history lesson with a dash of supper!

A hidden gem in Council Grove Kansas.

No words can describe our experience. We learned so much about the deeply-rooted history of this town, along with customs and traditions connected to the natives of this land. I want to try everything on the menu. But most of all, I want to return and spend more time with Shirley and Ken. If only the world had more folks like this in it. ♥️

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I admire what they are doing. They are like the guardians of history and the experience is unique. Take your time, go there and listen to the stories. You won't have so many experiences and luck to share time with such people !

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Well, I had the elk, sweet potatoes, succotash and Indian bread last four or five times I've been there. Maybe I'll try something different someday lol. Also had a black walnut cookie with vanilla ice cream. The owner Ken is fun to talk to and nose Kansas history like the back of his hand. They have theater offerings now that I have not tried yet, but will soon.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great food and knowledgeable host. Had a great time! Definitely recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Schnitzel, Cornbread, Indian Bread, Oven-Fried Chicken

This was a really fun place - full of history, a lovely host, and well-made home cooking from historic recipes.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Bison Pot Roast, Indian Bread

Good place to have some good conversation and learn while waiting on some great food

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Performed in a talent show there. Great beautiful theater. Must see it.

Atmosphere: 5

Great food, better atmosphere. My boyfriend and I were driving through Council Grove (neither of us had been there before) and we were starving. Trail Days peaked our curiosity and thank goodness it did. The owner was incredibly friendly and happily gave us an extensive history of the town and the building we were in all while preparing our meal. While we waited to eat, we were able to freely roam all the floors of the museum. This was more of an experience than a meal, so don't expect a quick in-and-out lunch or you will truly miss out. The owners (husband and wife) have dumped their hearts and souls into not only restoring this building, but into preserving it as it once was. We drove from KC and would absolutely make the drive again just to visit Trail Days Cafe and museum. If you are in Council Grove, do NOT skip this stop!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Bison Pot Roast, Indian Bread

My family & I loved our time at Trail Days Cafe & Museum. The owners are just the sweetest people, and very knowledgeable in the history of the building, town, and Kansas. The food was very delicious and it was overall a memorable experience. We look forward to coming back!

If you want a side of history with your meal, Trail Days Cafe is the place to go! If you are looking for a private conversation without distractions, you might think twice about choosing this place to eat. Here you are not just served your meal but will also recieve an education throughout your meal about local history told in story format by the ever so passionate staff. We were impressed seeing a menu full of meals that reflect days gone by. We toured the museum after we ate and then browsed local shops. Highly recommend this establishment for a quaint historical experience!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Wonderful little restaurant with an amazing history and good food. The hosts were warm and engaging. Recommended.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5