Peterson Krische Van Horn DDS

Take the whole family on a safari without having to leave the country when you make plans to visit the Topeka Zoological Park. The kids will love seeing and learning about various species of animals from all around the world that include lions, giraffes, primates and more. This 30-acre facility is impressive for so many reasons, not the least of which is the fact that it serves as a home to over 300 animals housed in exhibits and attractions that replicate their natural habitats.

Sure, there's romantic music, romantic meals and even romantic poetry, but nothing symbolizes romance quite as effectively as a beautiful rose. The two of you can enjoy the multilayer bouquet of sights and smells when you stroll hand in hand on a date at the Reinisch Rose Garden. The walking paths are lined with beautiful roses and even offer several small benches where you and your sweetheart can sit and take it all in. The garden is home to 6,500 bushes of roses that are captivatingly presented over 2 ½ acres.

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.