Kansas Avenue Lofts

While Downtown Topeka -- aside from the spectacular Capitol building -- once seemed rather bland, that's quickly changing. The city recently invested heavily to create period lighting, eight pocket parks, charming pavilions with fountains, and a brand-new pipe system to replace its existing, 75-year-old system. These changes have brought with them an influx of new restaurants and shops, making Downtown Topeka a hip, fun place to live. Nearby Washburn University adds a youthful vibe as students discover the area's restaurants and nightlife.

Downtown Topeka's "Main Street" is Kansas Avenue, and the downtown area extends from roughly 16th Street north to around 5th Street. It includes the historic Jayhawk Theater, a movie palace and vaudeville theater that opened in 1926; the Topeka Performing Arts Center, which hosts plays, the ballet, concerts, and special events; and the Downtown Topeka Farmers Market, which is open on Saturdays from April through November.