The Wheel’s Unexpected Reopening
The Wagon Wheel, typically quiet during the summer months, is set to reopen due to the success of the Kansas baseball program. Usually closed for the summer except for private events, the establishment at 507 W. 14th St. will open its doors for the first time in quite a while.
Proprietor Rob Farha, known as “Knobbie,” had considered opening for the FIFA World Cup but was hesitant. However, Kansas baseball’s first regional appearance changed his plans.
A Scramble to Prepare
Farha is preparing the bar for a weekend reopening, coinciding with the NCAA regional competition featuring KU, Arkansas, Missouri State, and Northeastern. The Wheel will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
“I run out of product and everything,” he said of the annual closure. “So once this got announced, I’ve been scrambling.”
Decades of Support for KU Baseball
Farha, who has owned the Wheel since 1997, has been a long-time supporter of KU baseball. He has also been close with former manager Ritch Price and Rich Jantz.
The Wheel has seen a boost from the team’s recent success, including the 2025 season and the 2026 campaign that yielded a pair of Big 12 trophies. Farha said the team’s success has given the Wheel “a little boost.”
The Wheel promotes KU baseball games and specials on its Instagram account. “Depending on the series and what’s going on with those frat guys, I do some pregame promotions, some beer specials, so they won’t have to pay as much at the stadium,” Farha said. “It brought some extra business. There were some diehards that would come over before they went over to the games.”
Anticipating Visiting Fans
Farha expects to welcome not only KU fans but also supporters from Arkansas and Missouri State. He notes that The Wheel is a prominent search result for visitors seeking things to do in Lawrence. His post-Ozarks scramble is in full swing.
Farha had contemplated opening up in some form at some point for the FIFA World Cup this summer, but had his doubts it would be worthwhile.