Few things can bring equal parts happiness and satisfaction. College Hill does it for me. There’s just something about the tall trees, hilly streets, and well-kept houses that is completely refreshing. Something special lives here. Maybe it’s history, a loving neighborhood culture, or the houses themselves, but this is the only place you can find it.

College Hill received its name as it went up alongside Fairmount College, the beginnings of Wichita State University. Ever since, the neighborhood has been an important part of the community, housing many influential Wichitans and their families. Today, you see a variety of people who have nestled into the neighborhood: young families, single folks, lucky college students, empty nesters, and aging adults. This quiet surrounding of chirping birds, blooming flowers, and fun holiday decorations appeals to any palate. With attractive sensibility and simplicity to the neighborhood that you can’t build these days, College Hill is a sought-after place.

In this neighborhood you can find College Hill Park, a terrifically hidden secret that serves as an excellent host to both dog-walking and picnicking. If you drive the streets, you will find house after house that you swear you will buy when it goes on sale. But watch the road — the potholes and intersections will make you bottom out! A small price to pay for the beauty of sightseeing in this neighborhood.

Another beautiful thing about College Hill is its close proximity to everything. It is nestled in a neutral eastside/central Wichita location, so you can arrive at your destination in just a few minutes. A nice walk or bike ride will get you downtown in no time, and the restaurants, home décor stores, and boutiques nestled along the sides of Douglas create too many fun opportunities to shop. Many of these little stores are like hidden gems, producing so many of my favorite finds.

So what should you do on your next Saturday off? Visit my home, College Hill, and you’ll feel the satisfaction of which I speak.

Begin with a nice walk through the neighborhood and bring your dog with you. He’ll probably get a chance to meet some other nice dogs, and you’ll both get some fresh air. If you don’t have a dog (or want to let him sleep in) then go garage saling. The neighborhood is notorious for them, so start early to find the best items. Once you finally recognize your stomach’s growling, stop into Jeanne’s Cafe and try my personal favorite, the coconut pancakes. Take some time to walk around at Douglas and Oliver. Some places you don’t want to miss are Watermark Books, Aspen Boutique (formerly Aspen Traders) and Ferguson Phillips. Need even more variety? Hit up Dean’s Designs, Country Bumpkins, Traditions, The Bag Ladies, Hippie Chick and Clifton Square shopping center, all just east of Hillside and Douglas. Clifton Square always has the coolest shops, being a popular place for budding entrepreneurs.

For lunch, try the new Dolci and Joe’s or College Hill Deli and Catering (recently reviewed by verb’s Liz Sothman), try a sandwich from Watermark Books, or cross the street for pizza on the patio of Il Vicino. Sport Burger isn’t much for looks, but serves up one of the tastiest and cheapest burgers in town. China Inn also dwells in the old Squires Phillips 66 building, close to the Central and Oliver intersection. An amazing transformation from gas station to restaurant, this place is one of the best kept Chinese food secrets around. Try the chicken lo mein, garlic shrimp or China Inn appetizer. You will not be disappointed.

For entertainment, there’s so much to do in College Hill. If you’re looking for a girls’ day out, look no further. With many a spa sprinkled throughout the neighborhood, it’s a great area to get a pedi then “see what you’ll find.” Check out the beautiful Crown Uptown Theater, and catch a matinee or a dinner show with a buffet that will make you grab multiple plates. Walk around the corner and hopefully you’ll be lucky enough to watch a packed show at Rockin’ Daddy’s, a.k.a. C Major Guitars. Don’t forget Final Fridays in College Hill, with a great stop at the new Springpark Gallery. My interest has been peaked after hearing about Clifton Wine & Jazz, open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I’ll be checking out the place the first chance I get!

So whether you have lived in the neighborhood since you were born, or if you’re brand new to the area, College Hill has something for everyone. But remember when you visit, this place is has an entirely unique culture and personality. Take a moment to appreciate it and enjoy it as much as you can. Peace lives here.

Photo courtesy of Eric Wittman

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