Gardner's Flooring America

If you and your friends are out and want to grab a few drinks in a truly comfortable, no-frills environment, then make your way over to Topeka's Matinee Club. Don't let the name fool you, this charmingly low-key nightlife venue is one of those places that makes little effort to draw attention to itself. Instead, the bartenders, waitresses and fellow guests all enjoy the relaxed if somewhat detached mood of the place. Come in, enjoy a few rounds, and feel like you've been at a friend's house who doesn't like to make a big deal about things, but you still manage to have a great time in his company anyway.

Topeka's history is full of surprises. One of the most noteworthy is the fact that a native of the city, Charles Curtis, was the first Native American to serve as Vice President during the Herbert Hoover administration. Get a more detailed look at Curtis' life and work when you visit the Charles Curtis House Museum. The finely preserved details of the furnishings and personal items on display all go to help tell the story of Curtis' life as well as his significant contribution to American political history.

Fans of the outdoors love making the short drive to Pomona Lake. Located 31 miles southeast of Topeka, this 4,000-square-foot lake is not only the perfect setting for a family outing or picnic but also you can take a swim or go boating and fishing. The lake is known for being an excellent place to catch such fish as crappie and channel catfish. So grab the family, get some sunscreen and get ready to catch a great time out at Pomona Lake.