Trail Days Cafe and Museum

The cafe … you literally eat inside a museum! Our waiter was also the cook and the bottle washer, and probably also the owner. A very nice man. We were told by a local who was also dining there that our “waiter” is also known as the local historian, and I believe it, because he has a story to tell for every interaction we had with him. Totally delightful, but allow yourself plenty of time to explore all the artifacts while you wait for your food. He was especially busy the day we were there, apparently, but we were well entertained. We had the Bison pot roast, so tender and delicious, couldn’t tell it from the regular English pot roast, with sides of sweet potatoes, Indian bread and succotash. They have German offerings as well. There is free off-street parking right in front. Highly recommend, but allow enough time to enjoy it! Time well spent, very enjoyable.

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!

What a truly excellent experience! The folks that operate this little museum are the real deal, they know so much about the area and have done such a fantastic job restoring this historic stone home that it's amazing they have the time to host hungry folks as well. This isn't a fast food or "chain" kind of experience, plan to sit down, spend some time here, experience the historic nature of the place that includes the early American style of being "hosted" as a weary traveller by local folks rather than the modern "customer/business" transaction. You'll get a savory meal, interesting and informative conversation and genuine traditional Midwestern American hospitality. This is more museum and home than Cafe, please be respectful of the place, the folks and the artifacts so we can continue to have this cultural portal for years to come. Heck, you might just learn something!