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24 Weekend Getaways, Road Trips & Day Trips from Kansas City

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If you’re looking for short road trips or fun day trips from Kansas City, there are great spots all over. We know you don’t want to drive too far…

But, there are easy weekend getaways nearby! Just a quick 3 (ish) hour road trip with the family. 

Whether you want to explore the outdoors, find mini vacation spots, or just find things to do in new cities, there are places for everyone to go. We hope your family enjoys these fun day trip ideas for kids! If you’re looking to stay closer to home, check out our Staycation Guide too!

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We’re big fans of getting out of town for a few days…but where to go? How far can kids realistically ride in a car?  Kids can make it 3 or 4 hours, and then the questions begin and the movies get old. So we gathered the below list of destination ideas and resources for you!

Pro tips: keep the kids happy with their own travel snack boxes for the road. Grab some travel wipes to keep the messes at bay. Plus, any time you’re on a road trip, a dashcam is a great insurance policy.

Best Road Trips from Kansas City!

There are 24 fun road trips from Kansas City, all about a 3-hour drive. These vacation ideas are perfect for a weekend getaway near Kansas City:  

As you head out of town, you might consider having even a small simple security camera to keep an eye on things while you’re gone. Peace of mind, while you’re on your trip, is invaluable!

Day Trips from Kansas City

 If you’re looking for fun day trips from KC, or better yet a weekend adventure, this is for you! Get your family out of town… even if it’s just for a weekend trip! 

> Cave Springs

If you’re looking for a super close trip, Cave Springs is worth considering. Because it is located in Raytown, you can make it there in less than 30 minutes!

There is a small waterfall, hiking trails, and other fun things to explore – learn more now.

> Visit the Sunflowers

There are 14+ sunflower fields near KC that you can visit with your family. This is a short day trip from the metro, which is perfect if you have small children…

> Ha Ha Tonka State Park Day Trip

1491 State Road D, Camdenton, MO 65020

(2 hours, 41 minutes)

You can make this its own weekend getaway or stop by while you are in the Lake of the Ozarks area. Plus, the drive on the day trip from Kansas City is beautiful!

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located in the Lake of the Ozarks area. You can definitely make it one of the best weekend trips from Kansas City to the Ozarks.

Things to do at Haha Tonka:

There are lakes and trails, and you can head over to Branson for fun too! You can rent boats & jet skis at local marinas and swim till your hands turn pruney! If you like hiking or the outdoors in general, this state park is the place for you…  

One of the highlights is a turn-of-the-century castle built high on a bluff and more than 15 miles of walking trails. These trails lead to sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and of course the lake itself!

Just head down for the day and pack a lunch for a picnic or decide to make a camping trip out of it!

Where to Stay:

If you’re wanting to stay for the night, there are many choices that make a great overnight trip for families:

> Canoe, Float, or Paddle the Niangua River

Lebanon, MO & surrounding areas (many campsites & rentals)

(about 3 hours) (IF YOU WANT MORE FLOAT TRIP IDEAS WE’VE GOT THEM HERE)

Things to Do on the Niangua River:

Your family can canoe, kayak, float in inner tubes, or raft down the Niangua River! This fun road trip near Lake of the Ozarks is great if your family loves the outdoors or is looking for an adventure. 

There are many fun campgrounds, cabins, & hotels in the area, so it will definitely make a fun weekend trip. Explore the many campsites & rentals available like the Floating R or NRO , which has free camping options available. Big Bear River Resort offers adorable cabins, canoes, camping & great fishing spots too!

Food on the Niangua River:

Depending on where you start your float trip, you can stop at The Gravel Bar & Grill at the Sand Springs Resort .

This restaurant is right off the river, so you can walk from your canoe. It has basic American food, offering something for everyone in your family. They also offer lodging at the resort, so if you are looking for a place to stay and rent your canoes, this might be the spot!

This day trip location is a little further away, so you may want to stay overnight – especially if you spend all day paddling on the river! These are just one of many great options:

> Tanganyika Wildlife Park

1000 S. Hawkins Lane, Goddard, KS 67052

(3 hours, 8 minutes)

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is one of the most unique day trips from Kansas City. Not sure if it would be a day trip, since it is 3 hours, but could be a great weekend getaway in Kansas!  

It is a family-owned zoo with one of the largest animal collections in the state. There are over 40 exhibits, including several interactive stations for your kids to learn.

This is definitely a trip stop to add to your list.  

Tanganyika is the only place in the US where you can interact with ring-tail lemurs in their island habitat and feed Indian rhinos and pygmy hippos.

From most of the reviews that I read, it is a great place for younger kids —more animals in a smaller area to save their little legs (and grandparents too!)

There and back will be about 6 hours in total, so consider finding a place to stay for the night:

> Northwest Arkansas

Rogers, Fayetteville, Springdale

(3 hours, 15 minutes) If your family loves the outdoors, this is a great weekend getaway with your kids! 

Things to Do in NW Arkansas:

There are tons of great family things to do in Northwest Arkansas…not to mention the scenery! You can camp along the river, swim in the clear water, & have quality family time on your family’s vacation. Don’t forget to try canoeing while you are on the river!

There is the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks , Charlie & Willie George Park which features a fun spray park for the kids to cool off & TONS of great hiking. There are also unique things to do in NW Arkansas like, exploring the Dickson Street Bookshop or taking in a local museum.

You can visit the Museum of Native American History , Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , or the Museum of Discovery – a fantastic kids’ activity! Last but certainly not least, you have to check out the Walmart Museum.

There’s so much to see and do in Northwest AR. Visit:

Fayetteville, AR

Springdale, AR

Bentonville, AR

Best Food in NW Arkansas:

You also need to eat. So, be sure to check out Crepes Paulette – where you can watch your food be cooked – or The Farmer’s Table Cafe to try food created all by local Arkansas farmers. You can also take a little drive to try  Kyya Chocolate – unique chocolate that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

In Bentonville, AR try:

Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili :

1702 South Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712

The Buttered Biscuit

1403 SE MOBERLY LN,

BENTONVILLE AR, 72712

Smokin Joe’s Ribhouse

2504 E Central Ave

Bentonville, 72712

In Springdale, AR try:

Wagon Wheel Country Cafe

4080 N Thompson St.

In Rogers, AR try:

Monte Ne Chicken Inn

13843 E. Highway 94

Rogers, AR 72758

Big Orange Burgers, Salad, Shakes

2203 S Promenade Blvd Ste. 3100

In Fayetteville try:

Hugo’s

25 1/2 N Block Ave

Fayetteville, AR 72701

Penguin Ed’s

2 locations in Fayetteville!

Hammontree Grilled Cheese

326 N West Ave #8

Pro tip: passengers taking a break might enjoy a little travel pillow to snag a quick nap before their turn to drive again!

> Roaring River State Park

12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville, MO 65625

(3 hours, 17 minutes)

The Roaring River State Park is a great day trip from Kansas City when the weather is warm. You can also make it an overnight trip with camping if it’s a little further for you (Depending on what part of town you’re in) .

Things to Do in Roaring River:

There is so much nature to explore – it could fill your entire weekend! Trout fishing is obviously its biggest draw but there are great things to do and see for the whole family.  

The park is one of the premier trout fisheries in the nation and is stocked each night. There are also 7 trails that lead through the hills, including the Deer Leap trail that overlooks the fish hatchery. There are options to camp as well, including renting a cabin for the weekend.

> Eureka Springs, AR

(3 hours and 50 minutes)

Eureka Springs prides itself on its fabulous festivals. 

I personally love the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and have participated many times, but there are several more throughout the summer—just check to make sure they would be fun for the kids! It is the perfect place for a day or weekend trip from Kansas City!

Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR:

The city itself is nestled in the Arkansas hills and has great hiking & outdoor adventures.

Check out Lake Leatherwood for hiking, fishing, canoeing & more outdoor activities.

Downtown Eureka Springs is also a great stop; filled with shopping, restaurants & historic character. There are tons of eccentric shops and art galleries to explore too. You can always find good music in many areas of the city, especially during Blues Weekend.

Best Food in Eureka Springs:

Parkside Pretzel & Snack Bar has everything pretzel – pretzel dogs, pretzel churros…use your imagination! Their reviews are stellar & also feature some healthy options. Eureka Springs Funnel Cake Factory also needs to be on your list. If you’re looking for more dinner food, check out the Rockin’ Pig Saloon for yummy ribs & burgers, or Emilio’s Italian Home Cooking . This delicious Italian spot is located inside an old house, with a more upscale feel.   

Plan on staying the night in either The Crescent or The Basin Park Hotel . Both have their share of ghost stories, but their true draw is how they pull you into the vintage feel of the city. I have stayed at both but I don’t think got an ounce of sleep because the lights were always on and I was constantly checking under the bed!

At nearly 4 hours away from the city, you’ll want to stop for a good night’s rest before you head back to KC. Here are some of the closest options:

> Rent a Cabin Near Kansas City

(1-3 hours depending on the cabin)

There are many nice cabins near Kansas City, as well as in the city limits. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or a weekend getaway in the woods, these cabins are always a great idea!

Find large cabins for multiple families, or small cabin sites perfect for a small family trip.

> Branson

(3 hours or less)

Branson is one of the best road trips from Kansas City, because of the windy roads and beautiful scenery. So, start planning a fun weekend getaway.

Things to do in Branson, MO:

There are so many things to do in and around Branson it is mind-blowing; shopping at outlets , dining, amusement parks, go-karts, bumper cars & boats, duck rides, museums, Table Rock State Park has ALL the fun a lake can provide & everything in between!

You could spend a day or two at Silver Dollar City alone. You can grab a coupon book for the outlets too!

Be sure to check out shows like The SIX , Silver Dollar City , and the MASSIVE go-kart tracks! Your family is sure to find kids activities everyone will love.

With Table Rock Lake nearby so you can cool off too. Visit  Table Rock State Park , which has fantastic camping, fishing, boating & great swimming areas! The park is situated on one of the largest lakes in the country, so you are sure to get a beautiful view.  Find more things to do in Branson now!

Best Food in Branson, MO:

On your drive down, stop at Lambert’s , “home of the throwed rolls” in Ozark, MO. It is home cooking at its finest…while they throw rolls at you to eat! Cakes & Cream is one of our family’s favorites. It is a 50’s diner with more desserts than you could imagine. You can get many old classics there.

For the best shakes & homemade pies in town, stop at Billy Bob’s Dairyland . They feature tasty treats as well as yummy burgers & other diner food. (They also have amazing service…)

Branson offers tons of hotels and resorts , but there are also some gems through Airbnb that offer more privacy for families. There are beautifully redone farmhouses , modern cabins and log cabins available too!

> Amana Colonies Weekend Trip

622 46th Avenue Amana, IA 52203

(4 hours, 29 minutes) While this is longer than the 3-hour trips from Kansas City, the Amana Colonies have something for everyone. Plus, if you are looking for a weekend trip, going further away from home may be fun!

Things to Do at Amana Colonies:

The colonies host events each weekend, from a dog speed racers competition to woodworking festivals, so there is always something to do.

They celebrate a rich heritage in arts and crafts and take visitors away from the hustle and bustle of busy life…check it out for your next weekend trip out of KC.

In fact, The Wurst Festival , a celebration of all things sausage , was named the Best New Event of 2015 by the Iowa Tourism Commission.

There are many places to stay camping, bed, and breakfasts, and hotels nearby.

Best Food in Amana Colonies:

If you like German-American food, try the Ox Yoke Inn for fresh, handmade food. The restaurant dates back to the 1940s, so there are definitely delicious reasons it is still in business. Or, head to the Ronneburg Restaurant for another take on German cooking. Both restaurants are highly rated.   

There are surprisingly quite a few places to stay in and around the colonies. Check them out below:

> Topeka Day Trip

(45 minutes to an hour)

Even though Topeka is our state capital, most people haven’t explored it even though it is one of the best day trips from Kansas City! With Topeka less than an hour from most places in KC, it is a cheap getaway from Kansas City.

Things to do in Topeka, KS:

There are tons of fun things to do like the Topeka Zoo & Shawnee Lake . Check out our top 6 things to do with kids in Topeka . 

You can even climb to the TOP of the state capitol building , which we definitely recommend during your day trip. Tour reservations are not needed for groups of 10 or smaller. The spiral staircase winds right up the middle of the capitol dome, so don’t look down!

Best Food in Topeka, KS :

Bobo’s Diner is a Topeka classic – handmade onion rings, fries & burgers! They were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, so you know it’s delicious.

If Mexican is your fam’s jam, El Centenario makes homemade dishes every day. If the kiddos are all in on awesome grilled cheese sandwiches. and mom & dad like craft beer, The Wheel Barrel is a must. They’re located in the NOTO Arts District and are famous for their gourmet grilled cheese & selection of craft beers. You can’t go wrong with anything on your list. 

If you decide to make a weekend of it, there are some family-friendly spots to stay:

> Roadtrip to Des Moines, IA

(2.5 hours – 3 hours)

While Des Moines isn’t the most attractive city to visit, there are tons of things to do with kids in Des Moines. Plus, the drive is manageable for a weekend trip or getaway. 

Things to Do in Des Moines, IA :

Explore Adventureland Themepark , which includes an outdoor waterpark, a theme park, and indoor pools. Or, your family can check out the Science Center of Iowa , where learning is brought to life.

Don’t miss Iowa’s wildest adventure at  Blank Park Zoo  or find fun things to do outside like Gray’s Lake Park, the Living History Farms , or the Iowa State Fairgrounds (if you can make the trip during the Iowa State Fair ).

There’s also the State Capitol Building you can tour and the downtown Des Moines farmer’s market – rated the 2nd best farmer’s market in America

There are fun kids’ activities here that make learning fun! There are also areas with tons of room to play, like Pappajohn Sculpture Park or the Des Moines Botanical Gardens . The sculpture park is a great place for kids to play while enjoying the artwork…plus it’s free!

You can also enjoy some yummy ice cream at Black Cat Ice Cream , just across the street from the sculpture park.

> Wichita, Kansas Day Trip

(3 hours, 20 minutes)

Things to do in Wichita, KS:

Wichita is home to the Museum of World Treasures , which has an extensive World War II collection as well as shrunken heads, dinosaurs, ancient Egyptians, and everything in between.

The Exploration Place , a science education center, is also filled with fun kids’ activities and things to do. Your kids will explore a variety of hands-on activities & exhibits…think of it as the Science City of Wichita. Check out the Exploration Place calendar of events to see what’s happening while you are there.  

There is also the Sedgwick County Zoo , the Botanical Gardens of Wichita , and the Cowtown Museum , which has FREE admission on Sundays from noon to 5 pm. Also, be sure to visit the Keeper of the Plains statue !

Wichita also has its’ own amusement park, All-Star Adventures ! There are go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, slides, kiddie copters, a driving range, and other fun family activities. You can find other fun things to do with kids in Wichita easily too!

If you are looking for other fun things to do near Wichita, KS check out the Wildlife Park below!

Best Food in Wichita, KS:

If you’re looking for yummy places to eat be sure to check out Dempsey’s Biscuit Co or Piatto for delicious pizzas. Also, be sure to check out the world’s largest mural painted by a single artist – Horizontes.   For an old-fashioned loose-meat burger and house-made root beer stop into Nuway ! The kids will love it.

Depending on where you’re planning on exploring, there are great options all over the city:

> Meade, KS

(camping, dalton gang hideout & state park).

502 S Pearlette Street, Meade, Kansas

If you’re into history, this is a small town worth visiting. The Dalton Gang Hideout was the home of Eva Whipple, the sister of the Dalton Gang outlaw group. A hidden tunnel was discovered to hide the gang members.

It’s now considered a Kansas tourist attraction, where you can tour the home and the tunnel (reconstructed version). There is also a historical museum!

In addition to the history, there is a beautiful state park – Meade State Park . There is a 360-acre area filled with wildlife, as well as campsites and a lake.

You can camp or fish at the lake with your family to enjoy the great outdoors!

If you don’t want to tent camp, there are other places in the area to stay overnight:

> Omaha Road Trip

(2 hours, 40 minutes)

Omaha, Nebraska is even shorter than a 3-hour trip from Kansas City. Close enough that you can handle the drive but far enough away that it feels like a getaway…

Things to Do in Omaha, NE:

Take advantage of this fun & inexpensive city with these things to do with kids. There is the famous Henry Doorly Zoo , the Wildlife Safari Park , the Aerospace Museum, The Omaha Children’s Museum, the Rose Theater , & tons of free things to do throughout the year. Admission to the Joslyn Art Museum is always free!

There are also beautiful state parks like The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park , which features a suspended ropes course in the trees. There is also a pool, wave pool, splash park, horse riding, mini golf & disc golf, Venture Climb rock climbing & other unique activities. This park has more to do than almost any we have seen…

Best Food in Omaha:

You can also find tons of great restaurants like Mayne Street Market , Yoshitomo (if your fam likes sushi), Hurry Bird (for some creative, delicious breakfast and lunch burritos), or Johnny’s Cafe for delicious food near the old stockyards!

> St. Louis Road Trip

(3 to 3 and a half hours)

Depending on where you are road-tripping from in Kansas City, St. Louis isn’t that far. There are too many things to do with kids in St. Louis for just one day, so make a weekend road trip out of the day trip!

Things to Do in St. Louis:

You can explore the St. Louis Gateway Arch , World Bird Sanctuary , St. Louis Aquarium (the perfect place for kids), Magic House Children’s Museum , and many other kids’ activities. Take a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Gardens, which features a beautiful Japanese garden.

Or, check out Forest Park , which is larger than New York’s Central Park!

Check out our St. Louis Road Trip guide for more ideas of things to do in St. Louis. You could fill an entire weekend trip with these ideas!

Best Food in St. Louis:

If you check out the arch in the morning, be sure to try Chili Mac’s Diner !

Crown Candy is definitely worth a visit. This is a century-old Soda Fountain restaurant that is a St. Louis classic. You will feel like you stepped back in time to 1913 as soon as you step in their doors.

After you try their candy, ice cream & delicious food…it’s game over. Their hearty BLT is stacked to the brim (overflowing really…) with yummy bacon! There are also some delicious donuts at O’Fashion Donuts . Head to The Hill and enjoy some great Italian food at the many restaurants located there.

> Roadtrip to Joplin

(2 hours, 30 minutes)

Things to Do in Joplin, MO:

There are tons of fun things to do in Joplin during your day trip from KC! You can visit a giant waterfall – Grand Falls , George Washington Carver National Monumen t , or walk around downtown Joplin . The Sunshine Lamp District is even named after Joplin’s booming mining days, so you’ll be trendy while walking through history!

There are cute stores to shop, yummy restaurants to try, & even an indoor adventure playground for the kiddos. You can also visit the winery if it’s more of an adult-only road trip! 

Best Food in Joplin:

If BBQ is your thing, you can’t miss Big R’s BBQ & Pies . The locals love this spot for its great BBQ and you can finish off with one of their great pies, so you don’t want to skip this spot!

The Red Onion Cafe is located in a 100-year-old building & highly rated across the board. They serve American food in a relaxed setting – be sure to try the Smoked Chicken Dip! 

> Columbia, MO

(2 hours, 10 minutes)  

Things to Do in Columbia, MO:  

At MU, you can visit the Museum of Art & Archaeology or the Francis Quadrangle , with giant pillars towering overhead. Or, check out the Columbia Art League in downtown Columbia.  Besides visiting The University of Missouri, there are other fun things to do with kids like nature parks.

If your family likes the outdoors, there are many great parks & hiking trails like Rock Bridge Memorial State Park , Finger Lakes State Park , Stephens Lake Beach & Park , or Capen Park .

Finger Lakes State Park is probably the most unique thing you can do, with trails for ATVs, motorbiking, & four-wheelers. There is also a lake where you can go scuba diving, swimming, fishing & non-motorized boating. You can rent kayaks & canoes at the park, so all you have to bring is your family!  

Also visit the Shelter Gardens , a 5-acre botanical garden that is perfect to take a stroll…  

Best Food in Columbia, MO:  

If you’re looking for healthy options, try the Main Squeeze Natural Foods Cafe , which is rated very highly.  If you’re in the mood for good-old deliciousness, try Just Jeff’s Street Food , they have two locations.

They supposedly have the best chili dogs in all of Columbia. Addison’s is also a yummy place to try. Their nachos are our favorite!  You can’t go wrong by stopping for a pizza at Shakespeare’s Pizza, a Columbia tradition since 1973 with 3 locations.

> Eagles Bluff Conservation Area

Columbia, MO 65203

(2 hours, 6 minutes)

If you’re looking to get away from the city…this is the place for you. There are miles and miles of nature to be explored – the perfect place for a nature weekend getaway. Plus, the shorter drives make this one of our favorite day trips from Kansas City…  

There is the Katy Trail State Park , which provides trails to bike, hike, or even ride horses! You can also explore other regions of the conservation area with fishing, hiking trails, camping, bird watching & other fun outdoor activities. 

> Rock City

1051 Ivy Road Minneapolis, KS 67467

(2 hours, 49 minutes)

About 20 miles away from Salina, there are giant spherical rocks, formed when Kansas was under an ocean. There are over 200 rocks you can explore!   You have a couple of options.

1. Rock City is the larger of the 2 attractions, with close to 200 rock formations, but costs $3.

2. Mushroom Rock State Park , which is smaller, is free to the public. If your children love to run around or climb on things, this is a fun place to explore. Check out the website to see cool pictures of mushroom rocks !     

> Go on a Safari

124 Jungle Drive, Strafford, MO 65757

Looking for more unique day trips from Kansas City? This safari is just minutes away from Springfield, MO. (See our Springfield Guide below). How about a wildlife excursion…it’s a drive-thru animal safari in the middle of Missouri! There are over 450 animals for your family to come to visit. 

While there is not a ton to do, the Safari is definitely a unique experience that makes it worth the day trip drive from Kansas City. Make it a short getaway with an overnight stay for the family all together!

> Atchison, KS

Because Amelia Earhart was born in Atchison, you can learn about her at the Amelia Earhart Museum , at her birthplace. Also, visit the Atchison County Historical Society Museum located in the historic 1880 Santa Fe Depot. Check out the Atchison Rail Museum .

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, hang out at Jackson Park or cross the Missouri River and visit the Lewis & Clark State Park . 

Where to eat:

Grab a sandwich at one of these yummy stops: Mr. G’s , JW Boy’s BBQ , or Willie’s Sports Pub . You can’t go wrong.

> Springfield, MO

(2 hours 40 minutes)

Things to Do:

Shop the original, and one of the largest, Bass Pro Shops ! Explore the incredible caves of the Ozarks or go on a safari at The Wild Animal Safari in nearby Stafford, MO.

Find your favorite style of cashew chicken at one of these places on the official Cashew Chicken Trail.

Step back in time on Route 66 and grab a burger at Red’s Giant Hamburg or eat at a classic diner like Casper’s .

Use these Tips for Traveling with Kids to pass the time faster and make your road trip more enjoyable. There are fun car games & tips to keep your family safe. 

Looking for other fun places to stay near Kansas City?

• Lake Cabins Near KC
• Tent Glamping
• Treehouse Cabin Near Leavenworth
• Large Rentals for Multi-Families or Groups

If you can’t get out of KC, check out:

• Cave Springs in Raytown
• Our favorite playgrounds ( & have a picnic )
• Have a  Downtown KC Staycation Guide
• Explore the Best Things to Do in Kansas City with kids .

Pro tip: make your driver comfy for these family road trips. We love these beaded seat covers to keep you cool and comfortable.

What are some of your favorite places to visit near the metro? Let us know in the comments!

If you want to stay up to date, click below to join THE SCOOP! Get it delivered right to your inbox!

From our family to yours, iFamilyKC

Tags: Branson Gladstone Joplin Liberty Omaha Raytown Springdale Springfield

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9 Fun Weekend Road Trips from Kansas City, Missouri

Posted by Sarah Boles August 01, 2021 Updated June 09, 2023

The Kansas City metro has no shortage of entertainment. But after a while, even easy access to fall-off-the-bone- delicious barbecue, successful professional sports teams, nightly live music, and a ridiculous amount of fountains eventually gets old.

Luckily, KC’s prime Midwestern location puts a year’s worth of weekend road trips within reach when you’re ready to mix things up a little. Five other states (plus the rest of Missouri) are within a four hour drive of downtown, providing no shortage of amazing road trips from Kansas City perfect for putting distance between you and everyday life for a few days.

Each of these destinations have a weekend’s worth of excitement for the outdoorsy, indoorsy, foodie, and adrenaline-seeking travelers among us.

Related Read: 9 Amazing Treehouse Rentals in Missouri You’ll Love

1. Omaha, Nebraska

Just up the Missouri River from KC is the best Nebraska has to offer: a weekend in Omaha.

In parenting circles, Omaha is the quintessential family weekend road trip from KC thanks in part to its children’s museum. Tailored to the 8-and-under crowd, the Omaha Children’s Museum is bursting with activities that engage their senses and peak their interests, including a tinker factory, a kid-sized auto service center, and a splash garden.

In addition to all the typical zoo attractions (a.k.a. animals), the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium has an amazing splash park. The “Children’s Adventure Trails” area allows kids to traverse a three-story tree house with monkeys climbing above them. It also has a creek following through it and tons of smaller things to climb. Expect all the kiddos to be tired come 7 p.m.

No kids? No problem! Omaha has plenty of fun for all ages.

Baseball fans can plan a visit around the College World Series (CWS), held downtown at the TD Ameritrade Park in June. Any Omaha baseball pilgrimage should include a visit to the site of the former home of the CWS: Rosenblatt Stadium. Infield at the Zoo , located in the zoo’s parking lot, is a memorial to the old stadium. You can run the original baselines and sit in original seats.

The Old Market Entertainment District features brick streets, galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and rooftop dining. From French to Mexican to Cuban to Italian, the market district is the place to go for everything from a juicy steak to succulent sushi.

• Distance from Kansas City: 185 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours, 40 mins

2. Bentonville, Arkansas

With 40 miles of trails accessible from downtown, Outside Magazine recently called Bentonville “Disneyland for mountain bikers .” And while folks in, say, British Columbia may not agree with that assessment, there’s no denying how convenient the city is for explorers on two wheels. After a long day on the trails, the bike-friendly downtown has restaurants, unique lodging, and free entertainment to help you rest and refuel your tired body.

Not into mountain biking? No worries: Bentonville has plenty of non-adrenaline fun, too. Stroll around the indoor and outdoor galleries of The Momentary , a free contemporary art museum. The museum grounds feature green space for picnics and performances, as well as a bar and cafe.

Next, move on to Crystal Bridges , a free American art museum. Its unique architecture was designed to celebrate the idea that buildings can exist in harmony with their surrounding nature. The museum grounds have over four miles of hiking trails in addition to the namesake bridges.

Take your visit to Crystal Bridges to the next level and reserve an all-inclusive Forest Globe Experience . This night out includes bluetooth controlled lights and speaker plus your choice of dinner, dessert and sparkling water, all inside a forest globe.

• Distance from Kansas City: 210 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 10 mins

3. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

You can rent everything from a houseboat to a kayak at Lake of the Ozarks or bring your own. No matter what you chose, a weekend at the lake revolves around the water. You may recognize the Ozarks but the Netflix show of the same name, which brought a lot of attention to how beautiful this easy road trip from Kansas City really is.

The Bagnell Dam Strip has water craft rentals to help you enjoy the water, arcades to test your luck at skee-ball, souvenir shops so you don’t come home empty handed, restaurants, and weekend car shows.

Besides for its lakeside bars, restaurants, and parks that make the area a bit of a party hot spot, Lake of the Ozarks is also considered one of the best fishing lakes in the country. So if you’re angler, bump this to the top of the “must-do roadtrips from Kansas City” list.

From five-star resorts to campgrounds, there’s a place for everyone to comfortably rest their heads at the lake. Kick back and watch fireworks at Bear Bottom Resort or enjoy its outdoor pool. Play a round of golf or splash year-round at the indoor waterpark at Margaritaville Lake Resort (formerly Tan-Tar-A Resort). Pitch your tent at Lake of the Ozarks State Park and you’ll have access to two marinas complete with sandy beaches. It’s a great place for a morning stroll with coffee in hand.

Related Read:  10 Best Tiny House Rentals in Missouri for Big Adventure

4. Buffalo National River (Jasper, Arkansas)

The Buffalo National River runs across northern Arkansas and plays host to some amazing paddling, cliff jumping, climbing, and hiking. It’s also a great place to escape to a remote cabin. Lined by sandstone bluffs reaching up to 400 feet tall, the Buffalo is the first national river and one of the last free-flowing (no dams) rivers in the country.

The town of Jasper is a great home base. The Ozark Café serves up delicious meals perfect for refueling after a long adventure, and is a short drive from a prime viewing spot of the Grand Canyon of Arkansas , which offers epic views of the redbud blooms in spring and of the fall colors.

The nearby Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is a destination in itself. Enjoy horseback riding on mountain trails and across creeks. And thrill seekers should check out the via ferrata and zip line. The dude ranch has cabins on site (with hot tub and pool access) and features the most beginner and family-friendly rock climbing around. Guides and gear are available for rent from the trading post. No wonder Jasper is a frequent item on lists of the best Kansas City road trips.

• Distance from Kansas City: 262 miles
• Drive time without stops: 4 hours, 20 mins

5. St. Louis, Missouri

Riding a tram 63 stories up the hollow structure of the Gateway Arch is something everyone should do once in their lives. Fair warning: the trams are small, white pods straight out of a science fiction movie. They only fit five people, but luckily, the ride is less than five minutes long. Also worth noting: the skydeck is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, and sways in the wind. That said, the views of the city, Mississippi River, and beyond, are spectacular. So, summary: great Kansas City roadtrip if you don’t mind heights.

Branch out from downtown and explore the Delmar Loop in University City (“U-City”). Take the trolley to explore over 100 specialty shops, including Vintage Vinyl and Avalon Exchange . The Loop has restaurants serving up food from countries around the world, including the Philippines, Greece, Lebanon, India, and Thailand.

You can spend an entire weekend just in nearby Forest Park , which anyone from “the Lou” will be quick to tell you is bigger than Central Park. Within its grounds, guests can visit the history museum, city zoo, art museum, science center, and planetarium, all for free. Want to take your adventure up a notch? Check out Flegel Falls, go sledding at the infamous Art Hill, or rent watercraft to explore the lake.

Looking for a truly unique experience? Head to the City Museum . There, old pieces of the city are repurposed to create slides, tunnels, climbers, and more. If you’re short on time, skip the inside exhibits and make your way to the rooftop (open March through November), which features a school bus, praying mantis, ferris wheel, and great views of the city.

• Distance from Kansas City: 248 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 45 mins

Related Read:   9 Fun & Free Things to Do in Saint Louis, Missouri

6. Weston, Missouri

Weston is known for three things: festivals, beverages, and outdoor adventure. It’s close proximity to the city makes it one of the easiest road trips from Kansas City for locals looking for a fun weekend away.

Try to plan your visit around one of the city’s many festivals. Applefest features shopping, live music, a parade, children’s activities, delicious food, and, of course, apples. Weston Brewing Company hosts the annual Weston Irish Festival , which includes live music outside as well as in their underground pub (O’Malley’s). Both take place in the fall.

At Green Dirt Farm, you can tour a sustainable farm and sheep dairy. Afterward, head over to the cafe, which showcases sheep cheese and cow ice cream, as well as charcuterie boards, beverages, and crafts from local artisans.

Planning a cold-weather visit? Snow Creek Mountain Resort is the local place for Kansas Citians to find winter fun without having to head out to Colorado. The resort has 12 trails, five lifts, and two terrain parks for snowboarding and skiing. If your knees need a break, check out Tornado Alley, a 700-foot-long tubing hill.

• Distance from Kansas City: 33 miles
• Drive time without stops: 40 mins

Related read : 9 Must-Hike Trails in Kansas City, Missouri

7. Columbia, Missouri

Well known for being the home of the Mizzou Tigers, Columbia has a lot to offer beyond Division I college sporting events.

Downtown Columbia is the place to go for all your culinary delights. Try Shakespeare’s Pizza for a legendary pizza pie or treat yourself to a maple bacon bar from Harold’s Donuts, which offers 16 daily made-from-scratch opens.

Biking enthusiasts should visit  Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area to access the Katy Trail , the longest developed rail-trail in the country. It’s a great place to start your bikepacking adventure or set off for an afternoon ride.

A short drive north of the city, Finger Lakes State Park boasts 70 miles of off-road trails, a motocross track, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and even scuba diving.

If you have kids, do not miss Cosmo Park. It has biking and hiking trails, fields and courts for every sport, a remote control car track, and its prized gem: the Steinberg Playground . The accessible playground has great elevated vantage points for parents interested in letting their littles run loose, but you’ll see plenty of parents having a good time, too. Uncover an entire stegosaurus skeleton in the sand pits, run through tunnels, and climb tractor tires up a hill to reach a rocket ship.

• Distance from Kansas City: 126 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours

Related Read:   6 Unique Places to Go Glamping in Missouri

8. Branson, Missouri

Branson is jam-packed with all the attractions you expect from a world-renowned tourist town: a wax museum, a Ripley’s Believe It or Not, go karts, adventure parks, mini golf, chain restaurants and souvenir shopping. It’s also known as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World” for good reason, with more than 100 live shows, including classics like Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Show and The Haygoods.

Take a break from the often-congested main strip by visiting Branson Landing on Lake Taneycomo. The area has shops, restaurants, and watercraft rentals, as well as its centerpiece: the Branson Landing Fountains. Every hour on the hour beginning at noon, the fountains perform a three-minute show choreographed with lights, music, and fire cannons. It’s like The Bellagio in Nevada, except Branson is a much easier road trip from Kansas City than Las Vegas.

When you’re had your fill of downtown tourism, escape to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park . It’s a scenic 30-minute drive away from the crowds. There, you can hike, bike, fish for trout, ride horses, and take a tram tour to visit the elk and bison herds.

• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 15 mins

9. Springfield, Missouri

If you’re looking for a shorter drive (or just don’t want to deal with the touristy vibe of Branson), take a road trip from Kansas City to Springfield. It’s just under three hours from KC and has more than enough unique restaurants, outdoor adventure, and history to fill a weekend when you need a change of pace.

You can check out Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield , the site of the second major battle of the Civil War. The area has a visitor’s center as well as a five-mile auto tour so you can visit the key sites of the battlefield at your own pace.

It’s no secret that Springfield is the home of Bass Pro Shops , which for some people is very much an important thing . After visiting the original store, head next door to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium The museum has 4-D wildlife exhibits (similar style of the habitats on display in Bass Pro stores) of habitats from Africa to the North Pole, and the aquarium has exhibits featuring live sea creatures. This adventure is suitable for all ages and is a great place to escape the infamous southern Missouri humidity (or bitter cold) for several hours.

If you need another way to beat inclement weather on your weekend trip, check out Fantastic Caverns . A few miles north of downtown, the main attraction is a 55-minute-long jeep tour through the caves, which are a comfortable 60 degrees F year-round.

• Distance from Kansas City: 166 miles

Explore More in the Midwest

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Seen in: Midwest , Missouri , Road Trips

Posted by Sarah Boles

Sarah Boles is a writer, editor, adventurer, and mom. Having grown up in the Chicago suburbs and currently residing Kansas City, She is a lover of all things Midwest adventure. Sarah has worked as the editorial manager for Adventure Mamas Initiative and WildKind Inc.

In 2018 she was named Outdoor Research’s #SheAdventures scholar. Sarah loves climbing and trail running. Her passions include helping families get outside and increasing access to the outdoors for everyone.

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• Last Updated On
• August 17, 2023

31 Best Day Trips From Kansas City — Places Nearby!

Kansas City’s got a rhythm all its own, a pulse that’s born from jazz and fed by a smorgasbord of breweries and eateries. 

It’s a place I know well, a local’s playground filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. 

But don’t stop there. 

The city’s heartbeat extends beyond its borders. 

The best day trips from Kansas City? 

They’re right here, from the German charm of Hermann to the untamed wilds of Eagle Bluffs. 

I’ve wandered these paths, tasted these flavors, and I’m telling you, there’s a day trip here that’ll sing to your soul. 

So, grab your map, and let’s hit the road. 

Kansas City’s calling, and the adventure’s just begun.

Best Day Trips From Kansas City Compared

Day trips from Kansas City? 

Guess what?

They’re more than outings; they’re soul-filling experiences. 

From quaint towns to nature’s embrace, these gems are your ticket to unforgettable family memories.

Editor’s Choice

Branson sits a little further away from Kansas City than the rest of the spots so far. On average, the drive from Kansas City to Branson takes three hours and 20 minutes.

• Family Friendliness: 5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun factor: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is worth a visit for its vibrant year-round festivals and the great outdoor adventures that the surrounding Arkansas hills hold.

• Family Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Fun factor: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Omaha has many sights to offer its visitors, such as the Aerospace Museum, the popular Henry Doorly Zoo, Rose Theater, and the Omaha Children’s Museum.

• Accessibility: 5/5

Here are top 31 day trips from Kansas City.

Branson, MO (877) 272-6766 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Family entertainment: With shows, theme parks, and attractions, there’s something for every family member.
• Scenic beauty: Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the natural beauty is breathtaking.
• Can be pricey: Some attractions and shows may be on the expensive side.
• Crowded during peak season: Popular times can lead to crowds and longer waits.

Branson sits a little further away from Kansas City than the rest of the spots so far.

On average, the drive from Kansas City to Branson takes three hours and 20 minutes.

But boy, the drive is worth it if you enjoy driving down beautiful tree-lined roads with the wind in your hair.

Branson isn’t just about the drive, though; there’s enough and more to do in and around the city itself, from great shopping, dining, and tons of family-friendly attractions in the form of amusement parks, museums, and go-karting.

You could either spend your day exploring all that Branson has to offer, or head to the nearby Table Rock State Park with its many water-based attractions and camping possibilities.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Crowne Resort by Capital Vacations

2. Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs. AR (479) 253-7333 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Charming atmosphere: Eureka Springs is known for its Victorian architecture and winding streets. 
• Spa retreats: Famous for its healing springs, it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Limited activities for kids: While beautiful, Eureka Springs might not have as many attractions geared toward younger children.
• Accessibility: The town’s hilly terrain and cobblestone streets might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Though you’d be stretching the definition of a day trip to its uppermost limits (it’s nearly four hours away by road), Eureka Springs is worth a visit for its vibrant year-round festivals and the great outdoor adventures that the surrounding Arkansas hills hold.

If you’re visiting for festivals, summer is a great time, though you’ll have to check which ones are kid friendly before you visit.

If you’re looking for a day of hiking, canoeing, and fishing, Lake Leatherwood is a worthy stop.

Eureka Springs’ downtown area is also worth a visit for some great shopping and dining.

Historic character mingles with fun vibes in the area’s many quirky shops, art galleries, and live music scene.

Recommended Hotel: 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa

Omaha, NE (402) 444-4660 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Family fun: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a hit with kids, and the city offers a variety of museums and parks to explore.
• Culinary delights: From steaks to innovative cuisine, foodies will find plenty to savor in Omaha.
• Weather considerations: Depending on the season, weather in Omaha can be unpredictable, so packing appropriately is key.
• Distance: It’s a bit of a longer drive from Kansas City, so it might make for a long day if you’re planning a round trip.

Nebraska’s Omaha is a little under three hours away from Kansas City—close enough for a drive but sufficiently far away to feel like a one-day vacation!

Gorgeous state parks surround Omaha and are worth a visit if you love outdoor activities, such as the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and its rope courses winding through the treetops, horse riding, wave pool, mini and disc golf, a splash park, and rock climbing.

Omaha will also satisfy history lovers, rich in pioneer history, cultural centers, and museums, and one of the stops on the famed Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.

Recommended Hotel: The Peregrine Omaha Downtown Curio Collection By Hilton

4. Lake Jacomo

Lake Jacomo, MO (816) 691-3800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This gorgeous 970-acre freshwater lake sits in Jackson County and is a 24-minute drive from Kansas City.

Plus, it’s a hit among nature lovers thanks to the plethora of outdoor activities on offer.

A portmanteau of Jackson County and Missouri (Ja-co-MO for Missouri—get it?) is full of opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and water sports.

Rent a boat at the marina, get your bait and tackle ready, and head to any of the three boat ramps to catch yourself some crappie, catfish, striped bass, largemouth bass, and bluegill, or simply enjoy some sailboating and pontoon boating around the lake.

Several lovely hiking trails surround the lake, such as the Pa-Huska and Rock Ledges nature trails.

Don’t miss the regular sailboat regattas hosted at the lake—the colorful cascade of sailboats on the water is quite a sight.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Lee’s Summit Hotel & Suites

Also See: Best Day Trips From St Louis

5. Carthage

Carthage, MO (417) 423-8075 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated two hours and 20 minutes from Kansas City, this city is a dream day trip for all history lovers, especially those who enjoy Civil War and Old West history.

Carthage was, after all, the site of the first and second battles of, well, Carthage.

After the Civil War, Carthage was reconstructed and flourished—the latter evident in the gorgeous vintage marble structures the area is rich in.

There are as many as 600 buildings placed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the famous Jasper County Courthouse and the Historic Carthage Square.

Carthage is also a sight to behold in autumn, which is why it’s also called ‘America’s Maple Leaf City’.

Other interesting sites in the city include the 66 Drive-In Theater, the Carthage Civil War Museum, and the country’s largest non-profit amusement park for children—Kiddieland.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn by Wyndham Carthage

Related: Activities in Kansas City

6. Excelsior Springs

Excelsior Springs, MO (816) 637-2811 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Sitting just half an hour away from downtown Kansas City and home to the historic Elms Hotel and Spa , it’s no wonder that Excelsior Springs is one of the most popular places to visit near Kansas City for spa lovers—names such as Al Capone and Harry S. Truman also flocked to this resort town for a little pampering!

Alternatively, you could soak in the city’s rich history by visiting attractions such as the Hall of Waters, a historic Art Deco-style building that’s home to the world’s longest water bar.

There are plenty of other ways to spend your day here, too, depending on your mood—explore the many charming shops, restaurants, and local breweries sitting in the lovely downtown district, the Worlds of Fun park, or the Watkins Mill State Park.

Recommended Hotel: The Elms Hotel & Spa, a Destination by Hyatt Hotel

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Kansas City

7. Leavenworth

Leavenworth, KS (913) 758-2948 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The stuff of dreams for history lovers, Leavenworth sits pretty on the Missouri’s banks, half an hour away from Kansas City, and holds the distinction of being the first incorporated city of Kansas, earning it the moniker “The First City of Kansas”.

Leavenworth is best known as the home of Fort Leavenworth, a significant military site in the country’s Civil War history, within which you’ll find the Frontier Army Museum and the Buffalo Soldier Memorial Park.

Other must-visit spots in the city for history buffs include the Richard Allen Cultural Center and Museum, where the region’s African-American pioneers are celebrated, the C.W. Parker Carousel, and the historic district, 28 blocks of beautiful period buildings, lovely restaurants, and quaint antique shops.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Leavenworth

Lucas, KS (785) 525-6288 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The “Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas” is nestled three hours and 40 minutes from Kansas City.

It’s home to some of the most unique attractions in the country, such as the country’s second-best washroom and the World’s Largest Collection of the World’s Smallest Versions of the World’s Largest Things Museum!

Other unique spots that this lovely little farming community has to offer include Miller’s Park, an exhibition of the replicas of businesses, mountains, and churches that traveler couple Roy and Clara Miller built in the mid-1900s, and the Grassroots Art Center, which displays the work of self-taught artists.

Another interesting attraction is The Garden of Eden, a garden of sculptures with a log cabin listed on the National Register of Historic Places, constructed in 1907 by Samuel Perry Dinsmoor, a veteran of the Civil War.

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Russell – Russell Inn

9. Louisburg

Louisburg, KS Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Looking for a fascinating one day trip from Kansas City?

A short 40-minute drive will take you to Louisburg, a small city that manages to pack a surprising number of things to do outside Kansas City.

There are several family-friendly attractions here, such as the Powell Observatory (catch a public astronomical observation event here), and the annual Louisburg Cider Mill festival hosted every fall, replete with a street fair, corn maze, and pumpkin patch.

The Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory and Sanctuary is a spot that animal lovers will enjoy—you can view the majestic residents in all their glory.

If you’re an active family, the aquatic center is a great spot, with plenty of swimming and golfing on offer, or you could take in lovely lake and city views as you walk around the city lake.

Recommended Hotel: Paola Inn and Suites

Related: Beaches Near Kansas City

10. Powell Gardens

1609 NW US Hwy 50 Kingsville, MO 64061 (816) 697-2600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Powell Gardens is 915 acres of pure natural beauty, sitting a mere 45 minutes away from downtown Kansas City.

This natural attraction makes for a great day trip if you enjoy botanical gardens and natural colors and sights, and with plenty of sections to explore, from a waterfall garden to an indoor conservatory, you can rest assured that you have enough and more things to do at Powell Gardens.

The visitor education center is worth checking out, mindfully designed to merge with the beautiful meadows and hills surrounding the garden, instead of sticking out.

It’s also worth noting that Powell Gardens is Kansas City’s official botanical garden.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express – Oak Grove, an IHG Hotel

11. Independence, MO

Independence, MO (816) 325-7111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Missouri’s fifth-largest city earned popularity as the one-time home/hometown of personalities such as Harry S. Truman and Ginger Rogers.

Today, it’s a popular day trip destination sitting 22 minutes from Kansas City.

Visitors flock to the city for its rich history and happening present—lovely vintage buildings share space with glitzy high rises in Independence.

A visit to Independence will allow you to tour several historically significant sites, such as the Truman Presidential Library and Museum, the National Frontier Trails Museum, the Missouri Mormon Walking Trail, and the gorgeous Bingham Waggoner Estate.

After the history lessons, give the tots a break with a visit to the George Owens Nature Park, 86 acres of sprawling greenery with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Independence Kansas City

12. Missouri Town 1855

8010 E Park Rd Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 (816) 524-8770 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Drive for 35 minutes from Kansas City on I-70 E, and you’ll hit upon Missouri Town 1855, a recreated 19th-century farming village.

This spot makes for a great one-day trip from Kansas City if you want to give the young ones in the clan a taste of life in the 1800s in a fun, interesting way.

The 30-acre living history museum showcases over 25 relocated, restored historic buildings that represent 19th-century life in a prairie town.

Even better, Missouri Town 1855 takes it up a notch by having interpreters play residents of the village and bring alive a bygone era with performances and demonstrations.

Missouri Town 1855 is located within Fleming Park, so it shares borders with Lake Jacomo, Kemper Outdoor Education Center, and Blue Springs Lake—you can take a break from all the history by heading to one of these.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Kansas City-Lee’s Summit

13. Prairiefire

5661 W 135th St Overland Park, KS 66223 (913) 338-3800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of Overland Park’s most happening districts, Prairiefire is a great idea if you love entertainment and shopping—you just need to head 30 minutes away from downtown Kansas City for both!

Whether you’re looking for mainstream shopping or more offbeat options, there are plenty of brand stores, boutiques, and eclectic local galleries to spend the day in.

If not, catch a movie at the AMC Prairiefire 17, enjoy a spot of bocce or bowling at Pinstripes, or take the fun outdoors at the Wetlands at Prairiefire.

Prairiefire also has a little something for the science and nature buffs—the Museum at Prairiefire, which finds a partner in New York’s American Museum of Natural History, resulting in some stunning displays for visitors.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites By Hilton Overland Park, KS

Related: Weekend Trips in Missouri

14. Somerset Wine Trail

29725 Somerset Rd Paola, KS 66071 (913) 491-0038 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one’s a great stop for the lovebirds, and of course, the wine connoisseurs.

The Somerset Wine Trail, sitting just 44 minutes south of Kansas City, winds through the gorgeous, award-winning Middle Creek, White Wind Farm, Somerset Ridge, and NightHawk wineries and vineyards.

You can enjoy a range of activities at each of these wineries, from year-round tours and tastings and shopping for some world-class wine, and learn all about the wine-making process.

Somerset Ridge, especially, is worth stopping at—it’s the region’s largest and oldest winery, sprawled across 20 acres and with a wide variety of wines that can satisfy even the most discerning palettes.

Visit at the right time of the year and you can even experience vibrant live music performances, festivals, and even quirky offerings such as cigar-rolling demonstrations!

15. Mushroom Rock State Park (Kansas)

Ave K Brookville, KS 67425 (785) 546-2565 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Mushroom Rock State Park is located three hours and 16 minute from Kansas City.

At only around five acres in size, the Mushroom Rock State Park is among the country’s smallest.

But, the site’s otherworldly appearance draws quite a few visitors throughout the year.

The state park gets its name from the distinctive sandstone formations in the area—not only are these gorgeous natural attractions but they’re also historically significant, with centuries-old etchings done by pioneers and indigenous people visible on these mushroom rocks.

It’s fascinating to learn that the many large rock spheres that populate the park are from Kansas’s underwater days—you can imagine how many billions of years old this makes the 200-plus rocks in the area.

Some of the engravings, too, are even older than the Europeans’ arrival in North America.

Spend the day exploring the park; there are several picnic tables, so you can pack your own hamper and enjoy a fun picnic after all that exploring.

Recommended Hotel: AmericInn by Wyndham Salina

16. Lawrence

Lawrence, KS (785) 856-3040 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for a relaxed day in a locale where culture and history ooze through every cobblestone, Lawrence must feature on your list of Kansas City day trips.

Lawrence is a convenient, short 40-minute drive from Kansas City.

And, Lawrence’s cultural attractions include the Watkins Museum of History, the Spencer Art Museum, the Liberty Hall theater, and the Haskell Cultural Center, which focuses on indigenous culture and lifestyle.

The city houses the reputed University of Kansas—a great idea if you’re a fan of high-level college sports.

There are also several museums clustered around the university.

Missouri’s sixth-largest state is also home to a nationally recognized live music scene, with several bands and artists often playing at the city’s Replay Lounge, The Bottleneck, and The Granada.

If you want a literal breath of fresh air, head to the Clinton Lake State Park for a sports field, marina, campgrounds, and picnic areas, or South Park, the city’s largest lung space and a venue for many exciting events.

Recommended Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lawrence Downtown

17. Lecompton

Lecompton, KS (785) 887-6148 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Formerly Kansas’s territorial capital, Lecompton is an easy 49-minute drive from Kansas City.

Even better, it’s a historically significant site for its contribution in the lead-up to the Civil War.

The Lecompton of today is a tourist hub, full of small-town charm and a personality that remembers and celebrates its rich history.

If you enjoy museums, head to downtown Lecompton for a tour through the Territorial Capital Museum, where you can see well-preserved artifacts from the Civil War era, and Constitution Hall, which finds a place among the country’s National Historic Landmarks.

One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot; there are quite a few walking tours available.

Recommended Hotel: Tru By Hilton Lawrence

Weston. MO (816) 640-2909 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Weston’s reputation precedes it—it’s been voted several times as one of the region’s best overnight and day trip destinations by a plethora of reputed regional and national publications such as Ingram’s, AAA Midwest Traveler, and The Pitch.

Just a 30-minute drive away from Kansas City’s downtown area, Weston’s star attraction is the Green Dirt Farm, a small business that sells mouthwatering cheese and offers four-course dinners showcasing local produce (Farm Table Dinners).

Apart from Green Dirt, you can explore the city’s many other historic farms, wineries, and creameries, each offering plenty of touring and tasting opportunities.

If you adore period breweries, the Weston Brewing Company, a 19th-century brewery that saw a reopening in 2005, must be on your list.

This apart, there is a plethora of shopping and dining options, with several stores and eateries housed in magnificent historical buildings, making the experience that much more special.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites By Hilton Leavenworth Downtown

19. Dalton Gang Hideout

502 S Pearlette St Meade, KS 67864 (620) 873-2731 Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dalton Gang Hideout is every bit as exciting as the name sounds, and yes, it did serve as a hideout for the infamous Dalton Gang, an outlawed group of train robbers from the late 1800s!

While you need to drive for over four hours to reach this attraction from Kansas City, it’s definitely worth it.

Formerly the home of Eva Whipple, the gang’s sister, where the outlaws used to occasionally hide, Dalton Gang Hideout is a popular tourist attraction today and has been since it was thrown open to the public in 1940.

Visitors can enjoy tours of the house and a secret passageway that was discovered by its residents in 1892—after Whipple evacuated the house—leading from the main structure to the stable nearby.

The barn serves as an interesting museum, with personal effects and newspaper articles from the 1800s on display.

Recommended Hotel: Moon Mist Motel

20. St. Joseph

St. Joseph, MO (816) 233-6688 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

St. Joseph has a rich past—between being the famous Pony Express’s starting point, the site where infamous outlaw Jesse James met his end, and rapper Eminem’s birthplace, a lot of history is covered in this little community!

St. Joseph sits an easy one-hour drive from Kansas City and is generously peppered with gorgeous, Victorian-style period buildings, many of which feature in the National Register of Historic Places.

If you’d like to learn about the city’s eventful past and glorious culture, there are plenty of museums that serve the purpose, such as the Jesse James Home Museum and the Pony Express Museum (the stables here are from 1860!).

A good way to explore St. Joseph (which will appeal to outdoors lovers) is to hike or bike the 26-mile St. Joseph Parkway that snakes through the city; you can also enjoy hunting, picnicking, and fishing in the surrounding conservation lands.

Recommended Hotel: Drury Inn & Suites St Joseph

21. Florida

Florida, MO Open in Google Maps

Florida is about three hours from Kansas City by car.

Still, Missouri’s Florida makes an intriguing destination for a day trip.

While the village has had no residents since the mid-1900s, it still draws many visitors owing to its fame as renowned author Mark Twain’s birthplace.

Fans of the author will enjoy touring the Mark Twain Birthplace Historic Site, a living history museum, where you’ll also find preserved a two-room cabin that belonged to the author.

In the cabin are displayed several of his personal effects, such as first editions of some of his works and a prized manuscript of his masterpiece, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”.

The Historic Site sits along the manmade Mark Twain Lake, so you can also just spend some time unwinding on the banks.

Recommended Hotel: FairBridge Inn Express Monroe City

22. Northwest Arkansas

Arkansas Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Need a family-friendly outdoor getaway?

Northwest Arkansas, located three hours from the city, may just do the trick.

Sitting amid some stunning foliage is tons of outdoor fun, from swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the White River, paddling down its gentle rapids in a canoe, camping on its verdant banks, and spending some quality time together.

If this is too up close and personal with nature for you, dial it down a bit and head to the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, home to the area’s sole native butterfly house and twelve spectacular themed gardens.

There are plenty of other attractions on offer for the family, as well, such as the Charlie and Willie George Park’s spray park, the quaint Dickson Street Bookshop, and many quirky local museums, such as the Museum of Discovery (a usual hit with the tots!) and the Walmart Museum.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Fayetteville

Related: Weekend Getaways Near Oklahoma City, OK

Topeka, KS (785) 234-1030 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Many folks pass over Topeka for the more scenic places near Kansas City, but the state capital may just surprise you with all that it has to offer.

Set 45 minutes away from Kansas City, there are attractions typical to capital cities, such as climbing the spiraling staircase to the state capitol building’s dome, and several top-notch galleries, performing arts centers, and museums.

For a spot of family-friendly fun, check out Shawnee Lake and its many outdoor activities, from a swim beach to hiking trails to a softball complex to even a yacht club—something for every kind of outdoors person.

If you’ve got young scientists in the clan, consider a stop at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center, with its interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences that make even learning math seem fun!

Recommended Hotel: Cyrus Hotel, Topeka, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

24. Eagles Bluff Conservation Area

6700 W Rte K Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 445-3882 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

A little over two hours away from Kansas, Eagles Bluff Conservation Area is a great spot to get away from the chaos and bustle of city life and just spend a day unplugged.

Miles of wetlands are open to exploration in this area where the Missouri once flowed; see if you can catch sight of Plowboy, a steamship believed to have sunk during this time and still resting in the sands of Eagles Bluff!

There is also the Katy Trail State Park nearby, with miles of hiking and biking trails and horse riding on offer.

Different pockets of Eagles Bluff offer different outdoor fun, such as birdwatching, fishing, and camping—there’s plenty to explore here!

Recommended Hotel: Stoney Creek Hotel Columbia

25. Tanganyika Wildlife Park

1000 S Hawkins Ln Goddard, KS 67052 (316) 553-4650 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Tanganyika Wildlife Park is a three-hour drive from Kansas City, but it’s well worth the effort if you’re a fan of wildlife interactions.

This family-owned zoo boasts one of the largest collections of wild animals in Missouri, along with over 40 well-laid-out exhibits and interactive displays for the kids.

What makes Tanganyika Wildlife Park a standout experience, though, is the possibility of feeding some of its wild residents and encountering ring-tail lemurs in their natural habitat—the only place in the United States where you can do the latter.

While you’re here, make sure you set aside some time to spend at the park’s latest addition, a top-notch 5,000-square-foot, animal-themed water complex named Tanganyika Falls—if the kids didn’t already love Tanganyika, the waterfalls, water tipping buckets, slides, and the ginormous water playground will do the trick!

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn By Hilton Wichita Northwest

26. Atchison

Atchison, KS (913) 367-2427 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that Amelia Earhart put Atchison on the tourist map.

But, there’s more to this gorgeous city than just being the birthplace of one of America’s most bad-ass personalities!

And, this city is less than an hour away from Kansas City by car.

For the uninitiated, Amelia Earhart is best known as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Her life and journey are well-documented in The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, sitting sixty miles away from Kansas City and fittingly looked after by an organization of female pilots.

If you’re not an Amelia fan, don’t worry—you can check out the International Forest of Friendship arboretum dedicated to those in aviation, or the Atchison Rail Museum, where you can enjoy a train ride on the Atchinson and Western Miniature Railroad.

For history and culture enthusiasts, the Evah C. Cray Museum, the Muchnic Art Gallery, and the Riverfront Park’s Lewis and Clark pavilion are worth a visit.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn Atchison

27. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

1491 Missouri D Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2986 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Another one on nature lovers’ list of things to do outside Kansas City is to visit Ha Ha Tonka State Park for a day trip, though you’ll probably end up wanting to spend more than a day here!

A beautiful three-hour drive away from Kansas City, Ha Ha Tonka is a haven for outdoor fun, with trails, lakes, and watersports tucked into Lake of the Ozarks country.

Rent a boat (or a jet ski, if you’re feeling adventurous), simply spend your day in the water, or explore the 15-plus miles of walking trails in the park, where you’ll chance upon gorgeous natural bridges, caves, and sinkholes.

One of the park’s star attractions is the bones of a castle sitting high on one of the park’s bluffs, a reminder of owner Robert Snyder’s sorrowful story and its own troubled past.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Lake of the Ozarks

28. Roaring River State Park

12716 Farm Rd 2239 Cassville, MO 65625 (417) 847-2539 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Come the warm months of summer, the Roaring River State Park comes alive with families looking to cool off and spend a fun day outdoors.

However, there are plenty of other activities throughout the years in this lovely state park.

Roaring River is prime trout country—its biggest draw—and is among the country’s chief trout fisheries.

If fishing isn’t your idea of a day out, you can explore the seven wildflower-lined trails that wind through the hills, such as the Deer Leap Trail overlooking the fish hatchery.

If you want to turn your day out into a weekend out, you can either spend the night camping or in a rented cabin.

Recommended Hotel: Cassville Four Seasons Inn & Suites

29. Hermann

Hermann, MO (573) 789-0771 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You don’t have to fly to Europe to experience the charms and culture of Germany.

From Kansas City, you’ll just have to drive for three hours to get to Hermann, which is a slice of Germany in the United States.

And, it’s a town where time has stood still—in the 19th century, to be precise.

Visitors to Hermann can get a feel of Missouri-River-Valley German life of the 1800s, thanks to a range of cultural and historical attractions such as the Historic Hermann Museum, the Deutschheim State Historic Site, and the Gasconade County Courthouse.

However, Hermann isn’t just historically significant—it’s also culinarily significant.

The area surrounding Hermann was designated the Hermann American Viticultural Area in 1893, and, today, houses seven acclaimed wineries, the source of one-third of Missouri’s wine.

Visitors to the area can also enjoy a range of themed events held every year along the 20-mile-long Hermann Wine Trail, or simply enjoy a magical evening with live music on any of the wineries’ terraces.

As if all this wasn’t enough, there’s plenty available for outdoors lovers too, from zipline trails to hiking and biking to a state park across the river.

A little something for everyone in Hermann!

Recommended Hotel: Hermann Crown Suites

30. Columbia

Columbia, MO (573) 874-2489 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Missouri’s Columbia, resting two hours from Kansas City, is home to the prestigious University of Missouri.

But, there’s more to it than just being a college town.

If you’re a fan of all things archaeological, consider visiting the towering pillars of the Francis Quadrangle and the Museum of Art and Archaeology.

Downtown Columbia houses the Columbia Art League, a gallery that showcases stunning exhibitions and educative art programs for visitors.

If you want to spend some time outdoors, check out the hiking trails and parks in sites such as Capen Park, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Stephens Lake Beach and Park, and Finger Lakes State Park—the latter even has ATV trails!

There’s also a nearby lake for water babies, with swimming, scuba diving, fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing on offer.

Recommended Hotel: Staybridge Suites Columbia-Highway 63 & I-70, an IHG Hotel

Joplin, MO (800) 657-2534 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Rounding off the list is Joplin, a two-and-a-half-hour drive away from Kansas City.

Family-friendly fun things abound in Joplin, such as an indoor playground for children, the Grand Falls (a gigantic waterfall, as the name suggests!), and the George Washington Carver National Monument.

The lively Sunshine Lamp District, a tribute to Joplin’s past as a highly successful mining hub with its name and red brick buildings, is worth strolling around—the heart of Joplin has many excellent eateries, unique shops, and lovely art galleries.

If it’s just you and the S/O on one of your romantic Kansas City trips to Joplin, make a stop at Keltoi Winery—you’d be forgiven for forgetting that you’re in Joplin and not the Emerald Isle while in this slice of Ireland!

Whichever spot you end up visiting on your day trip, you’re bound to be left wanting more—these are the best day trips from Kansas City, after all!

Luckily, sitting in such close proximity, multiple trips to all these spots is possible; it’s completely natural to even end up spending more than a day in some of these spots.

So pack your day bag and simply drive down to any of these destinations for a fun day out!

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites By Hilton Joplin, MO

Day Trip Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

In Branson, I found myself tapping my foot to the beat of country tunes, a world alive with music and laughter. 

It’s a place where families can lose themselves in entertainment, though the crowds can sometimes steal the show.

Eureka Springs whispered to me through its winding streets, a charming escape that felt like a secret. 

The healing springs were a balm to my soul, but I noticed the town’s appeal might be lost on the youngest travelers.

Omaha, on the other hand, was a delightful surprise. 

The zoo captured my imagination and the steaks? 

Unforgettable. 

But the drive was long, a journey that might wear on some.

Each destination sang a different tune, a melody of Missouri’s diverse landscape. 

Branson for the lively, Eureka Springs for the tranquil, and Omaha for the adventurous. 

As a local, I’ve tasted these day trips, and I can tell you the flavor of each is worth savoring.

How I Picked The Destinations

These destinations? 

They’re not just names on a map. 

They’re places I’ve roamed, flavors I’ve savored. I’ve talked to fellow locals, travelers who’ve wandered the same paths, and researched the hidden corners. 

Living in this state, I’ve tasted the essence of these day trips. 

Trust me, each one’s a journey, a story waiting to be told. 

Let’s explore them together.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Family friendliness: This criterion assesses the family-friendly appeal of every destination. Does it offer attractions suited for the whole family? Does it have facilities and services that entertain and engage all age groups? I use these questions to evaluate family friendliness. 
• Safety: I use this to evaluate safety and security. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is public transportation secure? Are local authorities reliable and helpful? I ask myself these questions when evaluating safety. 
• Affordability: This is used to assess affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it cheaper compared to the other options? I consider these factors when rating affordability. I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This criterion evaluates the accessibility of every location. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? How walkable is the area? How far is it from the base? These are the questions I ask myself when assessing accessibility. 
• Fun factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the day trip is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Does it offer attractions that promise fun experiences for the whole family? Are there theme parks, beaches, and hiking trails? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What cities are an hour away from kansas city.

Lawrence is roughly an hour away from Kansas City. It’s home to the University of Kansas and offers a vibrant arts and music scene. Similarly, St. Joseph, Missouri, is about an hour’s drive from Kansas City, known for its rich history and the beautiful Parkway System, a series of parks and boulevards connected by parkways.

Is Kansas City, Kansas Worth Visiting?

Kansas City, Kansas, is certainly worth visiting. It offers a blend of cultural attractions like the Rosedale Memorial Arch and the Kansas Speedway for NASCAR enthusiasts. Whether you’re into history, sports, or just exploring new flavors at local eateries, there’s something in Kansas City, Kansas, that’ll catch your interest.

What State Is Closest To Kansas City?

Missouri is the state closest to Kansas City, as Kansas City is actually located in both Kansas and Missouri. The city straddles the border between the two states, with Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri, being part of the larger metropolitan area. This unique location offers a blend of experiences and attractions in both states.

Conclusion 

The road’s been long, the flavors rich, and the melodies of these best day trips from Kansas City still echo in my ears. 

But if I had to pick one, Branson’s the tune I’d hum again. 

It’s lively, it’s vibrant, and it’s got a soul that sings to both young and old. 

Eureka Springs whispered its charm, and Omaha roared with adventure, but Branson? 

It danced. 

It laughed. 

It invited me in like an old friend. 

So pack your bags, hit the road, and let Branson’s rhythm guide you. 

It’s a journey, and it’s waiting for you.

• Apr 16, 2023

17 Best Weekend Getaways from Kansas City (within a 4-hour flight)

Updated: Jan 20

Kansas City. The city where Mickey Mouse was created and home of the best BBQ in the country (fact check me on both). There are some pretty cool things to do in KC and unique venues such as the Power and Light District. However, if you're looking to get away for a weekend and need some inspiration, keep reading.

KC is conveniently situated very close to the middle of the country, so the travel time to many cities is manageable. Here are some weekend getaway ideas for locals in the Kansas City area within a non-stop 4-hour flight. More importantly, these trips are all possible without having to request PTO (for you M-F 9-5'ers), it just depends on what you want to do at your destination.

Miami, Florida (MIA, FLL) - 3 Hour Flight

Beaches, outdoors activities, clubs, restaurants, culture. I just ask that you please please please venture out beyond Miami Beach.

When to go?

Any time of the year, but best is October - February for perfect weather. Avoid the spring break crowd in late Feb/early March the best you can.

Who can fly you there?

AA from MCI - See flight deals

Southwest from MCI - See flight deals

How much will it cost to get there?

Airfare: $300+

Where can you stay?

See hotels in Miami

See hotels in Miami Beach

Visit the following neighborhoods to step away from the "typical Miami": Wynwood, Brickell, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Midtown, Edgewater.

Orlando, Florida (MCO) - Just Under a 3 Hour Flight

Theme parks. Disney & Universal. Bring bug spray and an umbrella if you go during the summer. It's not my favorite city, but there's a reason why it's the #1 tourism city year after year in the US.

Spirit Airways from MCI - See flight deals

Airfare: $100+

See hotels in Orlando

New York, New York (JFK, LGA, EWR, ISP, HPN) - 3 Hour Flight

It might not be the same city it was before, but it'll always make for a great weekend getaway.

Summer for the best weather, but peak rates for solid hotels.

Winter for Christmas festivities!

Delta from MCI - See flight deals

United from MCI - See flight deals

JetBlue from MCI - See flight deals

Airfare: $150+

See hotels in New York

Washington, DC (IAD, DCA, BWI) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Museums, walking tours, great mass-transit and cherry blossoms. Fly to DCA for convenience.

Year-round (spring season for cherry blossoms)

Airfare: $200+

See hotels in Washington DC

For avid runners, pack your running shoes and go for daily runs around the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln and Jefferson memorials.

Chicago, Illinois (ORD, MDW) - 1.5 Hour Flight

Food, bars, sports, rivers!

See hotels in Chicago

For bourbon enthusiasts, visit Untitled Supper Club on W Kinzie for an incredible speakeasy experience.

Nashville, Tennessee (BNA) - 1.5 Hour Flight

Music (not just country), endless bars, brewpubs, hot chicken.

Spring, Summer and Fall

See hotels in Nashville

Stay in the Gulch or near printer's alley.

New Orleans, Louisiana (MSY) - 1.5 Hour Flight

Jazz music, other music, culture, architecture, partying, passionate football fans.

Spring, Summer, Fall

See hotels in New Orleans

Check out Bourbon Street for a little bit, but don't get sucked in. It's absolutely disgusting. Chartres Street is better for those looking to maintain their cleanliness.

Seattle, Washington (SEA) - 4 Hour Flight

Whales, Olympic National Park, Mt. Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park, gorgeous views, intelligent individuals, good breweries.

Summer (you can't really avoid the rain but you can pray)

Alaska from MCI - See flight deals

Airfare: $250+

See hotels in Seattle

Visit the REI flagship store. Wow.

Atlanta, Georgia (ATL) - 2 Hour Flight

Brew pubs, art, nightlife, Mexican food.

See hotels in Atlanta

Walk some of the BeltLine and stop at stores, bars, and restaurants.

San Diego, California (SAN) - 3.5 Hour Flight

Surfing, Hiking, Zoo, Mountain Biking, Partying.

See hotels in San Diego

Los Angeles, California (LAX, BUR, SNA, LGB, SBA, ONT) - 3.5 Hour Flight

Surfing, Hiking, Sports, City Life, Culture, Fame, Disneyland, Food.

Spirit from MCI - See flight deals

See hotels in Los Angeles

Austin, Texas (AUS) - 2 Hour Flight

Food, Art, Music, BBQ, Tech, Bach Parties, and All-Around Fun!

See hotels in Austin

Boston, Massachusetts (BOS) - 3 Hour Flight

History and cool summertime temps!

Intercontinental Boston

See hotels in Boston

San Francisco, California (SFO, SJC, OAK) - 4 Hour Flight

Tours, Food, Silicon Valley, Golden Gate Bridge, Surfing

See hotels in San Francisco

Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS) - 3 Hour Flight

Gambling, Hoover Dam, Death Valley National Park, Valley of Fire State Park, Partying, more Gambling.

Airfare: $75+

See hotels in Las Vegas

Denver, Colorado (DEN) - Just Under a 2 Hour Flight

Mountains, beer, National Parks, hiking, clean city, nice people.

Year-round. Ski in the winter. Hike in the summer.

Frontier from MCI - See flight deals

See hotels in Denver

Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Skiing, Salt Flats, Mormons, and great National Parks within a moderate drive.

See hotels in Salt Lake City

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• North America

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16 Best Day Trips From Kansas City, Missouri (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Kansas City, be sure to check out our list of the best Kansas City day trips!

Kansas City is a charming city in Missouri that is packed with unique attractions. The city’s downtown district has historic sites and cultural landmarks abound, from the National Frontier Trails Museum to the City Market to the Truman National Historic Site.

Once you’ve taken advantage of the city life, try one of these regional day trips from Kansas City! There are lots of fun things to do in this area of central USA that will appeal to any type of traveler.

History buffs can explore historic farms and small towns dedicated to preserving the traditions of the past. Nature lovers can visit a lush state park on the banks of the Missouri River and go hiking, biking, and exploring.

Whatever your interests may be, these day trips from Kansas City are sure to provide insights into the culture and landscapes of the American Midwest!

Be sure to check out our list of the best things to do in Kansas City as well.

Table of Contents

Somerset Wine Trail

Roaring river state park, mushroom rock state park, tanganyika wildlife park, excelsior springs, powell gardens, shoal creek living history museum, overland park, 16 lovely day trips from kansas city, missouri.

Whether you want to tour historic sites in a small Missouri town, indulge in some culture and entertainment in a bustling college town, or take on hiking trails in a state park, here are some of the top day trips from Kansas City!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from Kansas City: 44 miles
• Driving time: 48 minutes

Embarking on the Somerset Wine Trail from Kansas City promises a delightful day trip filled with scenic landscapes and exquisite wines. Located in the heart of Missouri, the trail takes wine enthusiasts through rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, offering a perfect escape from the urban hustle of Kansas City.

As you traverse the charming countryside, you’ll encounter a series of boutique wineries, each with its own unique charm and varietals. From crisp whites to robust reds, the trail showcases the diversity of Missouri wines, providing a tasting experience that caters to every palate.

Somerset Ridge Winery is one of the top places to visit. As a family-owned winery, Somerset Ridge has earned a reputation for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines and providing a warm, inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Somerset Ridge Winery promises a memorable experience, blending quality wines with a welcoming ambiance that captures the essence of Midwest viticulture.

The Somerset Wine Trail not only offers a delectable selection of wines but also provides visitors with a chance to engage with passionate winemakers and learn about the winemaking process. Many of the wineries along the trail boast inviting tasting rooms and outdoor seating areas, allowing guests to savor their favorite wines while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding vineyards.

With the warm hospitality of the winemakers and the serene ambiance of the countryside, the Somerset Wine Trail is an ideal day trip for those seeking a blend of relaxation, education, and, of course, the pleasure of indulging in some of Missouri’s finest wines.

• Distance from Kansas City: 205 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Though it’s a bit of a far drive, Roaring River State Park is one of the best day trips from Kansas City. Deep in the heart of the Ozarks in southwest Missouri, Roaring River State Park stands as a captivating natural haven that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, featuring deep valleys, limestone bluffs, and clear, cold springs that converge to form the iconic Roaring River.

Anglers flock to the park for its premier trout fishing, as the cold waters provide an ideal habitat for rainbow and brown trout. The park’s trout hatchery adds an educational element, allowing visitors to witness the fascinating process of trout production and releasing thousands of young fish into the river.

Beyond its fishing allure, Roaring River State Park offers a plethora of recreational activities. Travelers can explore the park’s extensive hiking and biking trails, which winds through scenic woodlands and offers breathtaking views of the river.

The park also features campgrounds for those seeking a rustic overnight experience, and the serene setting provides an excellent backdrop for birdwatching, photography, and simply unwinding amidst the tranquility of nature.

With its diverse offerings and natural beauty, Roaring River State Park is a true gem for those seeking a revitalizing escape in the heart of Missouri’s rugged landscapes.

• Distance from Kansas City: 34 miles
• Driving time: 40 minutes

Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, Weston is a charming and historic Missouri town that invites visitors to step back in time while enjoying the picturesque beauty of the area. Known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, Weston exudes a timeless charm with its brick-paved streets and historic storefronts.

The town is home to a vibrant community of art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy bed and breakfasts, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for tourists.

Beyond its quaint appeal, Weston boasts attractions like the iconic Weston Bend State Park, offering panoramic views of the river valley, and the acclaimed Green Dirt Farm Creamery. Visitors to Green Dirt Farm Creamery can savor a variety of handcrafted cheeses, from the bloomy rind Dirt Lover to the creamy Woolly Rind, all made with passion and precision.

Whether strolling through its historic district, savoring local flavors, or exploring the natural beauty that surrounds it, Weston, Missouri, beckons as a delightful destination that seamlessly marries the past with the present.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In St. Louis, Missouri

• Distance from Kansas City: 248 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 50 minutes

St. Louis may be better suited to a weekend getaway from Kansas City, as it’s just under a 4-hour drive. But if you start your journey early enough, you can still venture there and back on a day trip. Either way, St. Louis is definitely worth a visit!

Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, the city has a storied history that includes being a gateway to the West during the era of westward expansion. The Gateway Arch National Park, with its striking stainless steel monument, offers not only a visual spectacle but also a comprehensive exploration of American history.

The surrounding area, known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, includes the Old Courthouse and the Museum of Westward Expansion, further immersing visitors in the city’s historical narrative. A trolley tour is a great way to absorb all the city’s history and sights!

St. Louis is celebrated for its diverse neighborhoods, each contributing to the city’s unique character. The Central West End boasts tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a lively atmosphere with boutique shops and trendy restaurants.

The Delmar Loop, a vibrant entertainment district, is a cultural hub featuring art galleries, music venues, and a diverse array of dining options. The city is also a haven for sports enthusiasts, with the beloved St. Louis Cardinals baseball team and the passionate fan base at Busch Stadium.

From the eclectic neighborhoods to the rich cultural offerings and iconic landmarks, St. Louis showcases a dynamic blend of history, entertainment, and Midwestern hospitality.

• Distance from Kansas City: 201 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours

Mushroom Rock State Park in the heart of central Kansas is another one of the best day trips from Kansas City. The park’s namesake, Mushroom Rock, and its companion rocks, shaped by centuries of erosion, resemble giant mushrooms rising from the earth. This natural wonder is a testament to the forces of wind and water, creating a surreal landscape that sparks the imagination.

The park covers a small but enchanting area, providing a tranquil setting for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and geology aficionados to explore and appreciate the peculiar beauty of the sandstone formations.

Beyond the fascinating rocks, Mushroom Rock State Park offers a peaceful escape, allowing visitors to connect with the tranquility of the Kansas prairie. Picnic areas provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the unique surroundings, making it an excellent destination for a day trip or a brief respite from the nearby urban bustle.

The park’s compact size makes it easily navigable, and its distinctive geological features make Mushroom Rock State Park a great day trip destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the heartland of Kansas.

Heading south? Check out these fun things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas

• Distance from Kansas City: 189 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 50 minutes

One of the best day trips from Kansas City for history buffs is Hermann, a small Missouri town known for its picturesque vineyards, German heritage, and historic architecture.

Established by German immigrants in the 19th century, Hermann’s cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved buildings contribute to its old-world charm. The nearby town of Starkenberg is also full of fascinating historic buildings.

The Historic Hermann Museum immerses visitors in the town’s German heritage through its carefully curated exhibits, featuring artifacts, photographs, and restored rooms that showcase the life and culture of early German settlers.

The town’s winemaking tradition is a focal point, with numerous family-owned wineries dotting the surrounding hills, producing a variety of award-winning wines. Visitors can embark on the Hermann Wine Trail to sample local vintages while enjoying the scenic landscapes of the Missouri River Valley.

Beyond its vinicultural allure, Hermann offers a delightful blend of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. The Deutschheim State Historic Site provides a glimpse into the area’s German heritage, showcasing meticulously restored homes and gardens. The Katy Trail, a popular hiking and biking path, meanders through Hermann, offering opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside.

This lovely Missouri town is one of the most interesting Kansas City day trips to try.

• Distance from Kansas City: 212 miles

Tanganyika Wildlife Park , located in Goddard, Kansas, is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a unique and immersive experience. Unlike traditional zoos, Tanganyika focuses on providing interactive and educational encounters with a wide array of animal species.

Visitors can engage in up-close interactions with a variety of animals, ranging from lemurs and kangaroos to rare and endangered species such as white rhinos and cheetahs. The park’s commitment to conservation and education is evident in its various programs, which aim to raise awareness about wildlife conservation while fostering a deep appreciation for the planet’s biodiversity.

One of Tanganyika Wildlife Park’s notable features is its commitment to creating a natural and spacious environment for the animals, enhancing their well-being and allowing visitors to observe them in settings that mimic their natural habitats.

The park’s dedication to animal welfare, coupled with its hands-on experiences, makes it an ideal destination for families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.

With a focus on fostering connections between people and wildlife, Tanganyika Wildlife Park provides a memorable and educational experience, promoting a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the planet’s diverse ecosystems.

Explore more of the Midwest with a visit to Minneapolis !

• Distance from Kansas City: 28 miles

Situated in the rolling hills of northwest Missouri, Excelsior Springs is a charming city known for its historic charm, healing mineral waters, and welcoming community spirit. Renowned for its well-preserved architecture, the city boasts a historic downtown area with quaint shops, inviting cafes, and beautiful Victorian-era buildings.

Excelsior Springs gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a health resort destination, attracting visitors seeking the healing properties of its mineral springs. Today, visitors can still experience the soothing effects of these springs at the Elms Hotel and Spa , a historic landmark that has been offering hospitality and relaxation since 1888.

In addition to its historic appeal, Excelsior Springs offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities to explore its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by parks and scenic trails, such as Watkins Mill State Park and State Historic Site, where visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and learning about Missouri’s agricultural and industrial history.

Excelsior Springs remains a tranquil destination that seamlessly combines historic places with modern amenities, making it an ideal escape for those seeking a blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty.

• Distance from Kansas City: 42 miles

Located on 970 acres just outside of Kansas City, Powell Gardens is a breathtaking botanical garden that unfolds like a living canvas, showcasing an impressive array of plant life and horticultural wonders. Established in 1988, the gardens have evolved into a dynamic space that seamlessly combines curated landscapes with natural beauty.

Visitors can explore diverse themed gardens, from the serene Perennial Garden and the vibrant Heartland Harvest Garden to the intriguing Island Garden and the tranquil Rock and Waterfall Garden. Powell Gardens also features an extensive trail system that winds through woodlands and meadows, providing a serene setting for nature walks and birdwatching.

One of Powell Gardens’ standout attractions is the majestic Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel, a glass-enclosed structure that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty while hosting various events and activities.

Beyond its visual appeal, Powell Gardens serves as a hub for education and community engagement, offering workshops, classes, and special events throughout the year. Whether strolling through meticulously manicured landscapes, participating in educational programs, or simply finding solace in nature’s embrace, Powell Gardens is one of the top day trips from Kansas City.

Read next: The 9 Best Day Trips From Chicago, Illinois

• Distance from Kansas City: 63 miles
• Driving time: 55 minutes

Topeka, the capital city of Kansas, stands as a dynamic blend of history, culture, and modernity and is a great day trip destination. Boasting a rich heritage, Topeka played a significant role in the fight against slavery during the tumultuous years leading up to the American Civil War.

Visitors can explore this history at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, a pivotal location in the fight for civil rights, and at the Kansas State Capitol, an architectural marvel that offers both historical insight and panoramic views of the city.

Topeka’s downtown area is a vibrant hub featuring a mix of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, providing a delightful urban experience.

In addition to its historical significance, Topeka is home to a variety of parks and outdoor spaces, including Gage Park, which features a zoo, gardens, and a picturesque lake. The city hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating art, music, and the diverse cultural tapestry of the community.

With a commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity, Topeka offers residents and visitors a balance of cultural experiences, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming Midwestern atmosphere.

• Distance from Kansas City: 48 miles
• Driving time: 58 minutes

Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, Atchison, Kansas, exudes small-town charm and a rich historical legacy. Known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, the city provides a picturesque backdrop for a stroll through its historic district, where visitors can explore beautifully restored homes and learn about the city’s past.

Atchison is also famed as the birthplace of Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator, and Amelia Earhart’s Birthplace Museum is a notable attraction that allows visitors to delve into her life and legacy.

Beyond its historical significance, Atchison offers a variety of cultural and recreational amenities. The scenic Riverfront Park provides a tranquil setting for picnics and leisurely walks along the river, while the Atchison Rail Museum showcases the city’s ties to the railroad industry.

Annual events, such as the Amelia Earhart Festival , draw visitors from near and far, celebrating the city’s heritage and fostering a sense of community. With its historic charm, cultural attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, Atchison provides a delightful blend of the past and present for residents and visitors alike.

• Distance from Kansas City: 41 miles
• Driving time: 42 minutes

Lawrence is a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and the spirited atmosphere of the University of Kansas (KU). The city’s historic downtown, characterized by red-brick streets and charming storefronts, exudes a welcoming ambiance. Home to eclectic shops, art galleries, and a diverse culinary scene, downtown Lawrence offers a lively environment for both residents and visitors.

Massachusetts Street, or Mass Street as locals affectionately call it, is the bustling heart of the city, hosting festivals, parades, and a range of events that contribute to Lawrence’s energetic and inclusive community spirit.

Lawrence’s cultural vibrancy is further enhanced by the University of Kansas, which plays a central role in shaping the city’s character. The Spencer Art Museum, located on the university campus, houses an impressive collection spanning various cultures and time periods. Beyond the arts, Lawrence is renowned for its commitment to live music, with numerous venues showcasing local and nationally acclaimed bands.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the hiking trails of Clinton Lake State Park, Lawrence provides a perfect blend of cultural sophistication and natural beauty, making it one of the best Kansas City day trips.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Memphis, Tennessee

• Distance from Kansas City: 14 miles
• Driving time: 27 minutes

Shoal Creek Living History Museum , situated just north of downtown Kansas City, offers a fascinating journey back in time, providing history lovers with a glimpse into the 19th-century Midwestern frontier life. Spanning over 80 acres, the museum is an immersive outdoor experience featuring more than 20 meticulously reconstructed and preserved historic buildings.

Each structure, from log cabins to a general store and a one-room schoolhouse, authentically reflects the architectural styles and daily life of the region during the 1800s. Costumed interpreters populate the grounds, engaging visitors with demonstrations of traditional crafts, cooking, and various aspects of daily living, creating a vivid and educational experience.

The museum’s dedication to historical accuracy and education extends to its vibrant calendar of events, including reenactments, workshops, and festivals that bring the past to life.

Whether it’s the depiction of a bustling pioneer community or an exploration of seasonal traditions, Shoal Creek Living History Museum provides an enriching and immersive opportunity for visitors to connect with the heritage and history of the Midwest. It’s one of the top family-friendly attractions and day trips in the area!

• Distance from Kansas City: 142 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours

Carthage, Missouri, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant present, situated in the southwestern part of the state. Known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, Carthage’s historic district features charming streets lined with homes and buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Jasper County Courthouse, a stunning example of Second Empire architecture, stands as a centerpiece, adding to the city’s architectural allure. Visitors can stroll through the historic Carthage Square, exploring boutique shops, local eateries, and absorbing the nostalgic ambiance that permeates the area.

The Carthage Civil War Museum preserves and showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s Civil War history, offering visitors an immersive experience into this pivotal period.

Additionally, the Grand Avenue Park and Kendricktown Riverwalk provide green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. With a blend of historic charm, cultural richness, and community warmth, Carthage offers history lovers an inviting experience in the heart of the Ozarks.

Heading north? Try some of these fun things to do in Chicago !

• Distance from Kansas City: 11 miles
• Driving time: 22 minutes

A quick and easy day trip option is Overland Park, located just 20 minutes southwest of downtown Kansas City. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and lush parks, Overland Park has consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States.

The city boasts a robust economy, with corporate headquarters, shopping districts, and a diverse range of dining options. The upscale lifestyle is complemented by attractions such as the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, a sprawling 300-acre oasis that showcases beautiful landscapes, gardens, and walking trails, providing a serene escape within the city.

In addition to its residential appeal, Overland Park is a hub for cultural and recreational activities. The Overland Park Convention Center hosts events and conferences, while the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead offers an educational and entertaining experience for families.

With a commitment to community engagement, a thriving arts scene, and a balance between urban conveniences and suburban tranquility, Overland Park stands as a dynamic and sought-after destination in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Another one of the most popular unique and educational day trips from Kansas City is St. Joseph, a city with a rich history and a blend of urban amenities and small-town charm.

Known as the starting point of the Pony Express and the site where the infamous outlaw Jesse James met his end, St. Joseph preserves its historical legacy through various museums and landmarks.

The Pony Express Museum offers a captivating journey into the legendary era of the Pony Express, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that illuminate the daring riders and the crucial role they played in American history. The Patee House Museum , a former luxury hotel turned museum, takes visitors back in time with exhibits on the Civil War, and Victorian life.

Additionally, the Jesse James Home Museum provides insight into the life of the notorious outlaw, showcasing artifacts and offering guided tours of the house where he was shot and killed.

St. Joseph’s downtown district is a thriving hub of cultural activity, with a mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, and diverse dining options. The city’s robust arts scene is evident in the Missouri Theatre, a beautifully restored 1927 movie palace that now hosts live music performances and events.

The city’s historic places blended with its contemporary cultural and live music scene make St. Joseph a captivating day trip destination in the heart of Missouri.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The 20 Best Day Trips from Kansas City for Every Style of Adventure

Kansas City, is it in Kansas or Missouri? Well … it’s both, and not only is it one of the best cities to explore in both states, but it is also perfectly positioned for day trips in Nebraska, Iowa, and even Arkansas, if you don’t mind a bit of a drive! For this guide, we will cover day trips from Kansas City for every kind of adventure and keep it within a 3-hour drive. We’ll explore historic frontier towns where you can immerse yourself in the life of the 1800s, homes of aviation legends, and romantic getaways to reboot your love life. Let’s go!

Once you return from your day out of the city, let us take you through the best nightlife spots in KC on a fun, challenge-filled bar crawl! Our app-guided scavenger hunt “ Kansas City Crush Bar Crawl ,” will have you and your crew belly laughing all night as you experience the best bars and compete in off-the-wall challenges sure to entertain! 

The Best Way to See KC

Let’s Roam has created  app-led adventures  in hundreds of cities worldwide, including Kansas City and throughout Missouri and Kansas ! Gather your friends, family, and fellow explorers and invite them to race you through towns to find attractions and tackle trivia to earn points. You’ll love it!

Day Trips From Kansas City

In this guide, our Travel Times are estimated using Google Maps with Union Station, in Downtown Kansas City, as our starting point. Your Travel Time may vary depending on the day and time your choose to travel. Pay close attention to the states in this guide, as many towns have the same name in Missouri and Kansas. Make sure you aren’t heading to the wrong state!

Day Trips for History Buffs

1. atchison, kansas.

Distance:  50.9 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr

Atchison is the childhood home of Amelia Earhart, and she is still highly celebrated in the town. The Amelia Earhart Birthplace is the actual home where Amelia was born and raised. It sits on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River and tours detailing her life, accomplishments, and mysterious disappearance are available to the public. Every July, the town also hosts the Amelia Earhart Festival. 

If you have an interest in the paranormal, stop by Atchison’s Sallie House , reportedly one of the most haunted houses in America. Railroad junkies should make a quick stop in the Atchison Rail Museum where you can tour their collection of numerous antique rail cars and take a ride on the mini-train. 

During the summer months, Atchison has a sightseeing trolley that takes guests to all the top historical sites in town, and be sure to peruse the great collection at the Muchnic Art Gallery .

2. Carthage, Missouri

Distance:  141.7 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 12 mins

On the Missouri side of Kansas City, an excellent day trip getaway is the historic city of Carthage. Established in 1842, Carthage has been completely reconstructed after it was demolished in the Civil War. Now, the town has over 600 buildings that are on the National Register of Historic Places, and the old town charm is unbeatable. Stroll through historic Carthage Square and visit the Jasper County Courthouse, an absolutely stunning feat of architecture in the heart of Carthage. 

If you have an interest in Civil War history, then you probably know a bit about the battle of Carthage. It was the first full-scale battle of the American Civil War, and this area was truly torn apart by the conflict. Battle reenactments are pretty common at the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site and learn even more at the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum . 

Carthage also happens to have an abundance of Maple trees. If you can, visit in the fall when their gorgeous colors are ablaze! 

3. Concordia, Kansas

Distance:  211.9 miles

Travel Time: 3 hrs

Concordia is pushing it for a day trip, we admit, but it is well worth the drive. The historical city is loaded with interesting sites for the history buff. Stop in the Cloud County Historical Museum for a brief history of the area. 

Then, head for the National Orphan Train Complex . The Orphan Train saga seems completely unimaginable today, but from 1824 through 1929, countless orphans and destitute adults were loaded aboard trains in the east and sent to the western frontier for a new life. The museum offers an interesting look at the history of the orphan railroad and the people who took the journey. It also has a fully-restored antique passenger car, The Legend, that serves as the education center for the museum. 

Last up, make sure to stop in the POW Camp Concordia . The little museum details the horrors of what WWII POWs went through during their stay in America. Knowledgeable tour guides will lead you through the complex and guard tower. It is an eye-opening experience for most Americans.

4. Independence, Missouri

Distance:  10.6 miles

Travel Time: 23 mins

Independence Missouri is home to the 33rd president, Harry S. Truman. It is also the location of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum , the Truman Home, and the Truman Depot . Truman lived most of his life in Independence, and you will find his visage around every corner. 

Take one of the Pioneer tours offered in town, where a covered wagon will escort you to all the major sites, and then visit the best example of Second Empire architecture in the U.S. at the 1881 Vaile Mansion. The house is huge, gorgeous, and possibly haunted, so enter if you dare.

5. Leavenworth, Kansas

Distance:  33.8 miles

Travel Time: 42 mins

And … we’re back to Kansas. Leavenworth is another historic city just a short road trip from Kansas City. Start your day with the Carroll Mansion Museum and admire the stunning stained glass. The 1880s Victorian home is an absolute showstopper with its handcrafted woodwork and incredible antiques.

Then, take a ride on the earliest known American carousel. Carousels are a thing here, as they also have a whole museum devoted to them, the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum . You will learn more than you ever cared to know about the amusement park ride and see a vintage one from 1913. Leavenworth is a cute city with unique historical sites that you don’t see everywhere. 

6. Weston, Missouri

Distance:  33.6 miles

Weston is a great day trip from Kansas City for a little nostalgia and peace. Visit the Green Dirt Farm , where you will learn all about the process of making sheep cheese and milk products. Plan on staying for lunch, as you can’t beat the farm-to-table freshness of their meals. 

Weston is also home to the oldest distillery west of the Mississippi, the Holladay Distillery , home of McCormick Distilling Co. The distillery will give you an insider view of the process of making vodka and bourbon using limestone-filtered water from the region. If hard spirits aren’t your thing, then sample wines and meads, along with some tasty cheeses, at Pirtle Winery . 

Finish your night in the lively Irish Pub, O’Malley’s, established in 1842. It features live music and craft beers from local breweries! You will have no shortage of historic and fun activities in Weston to keep you busy for a day. AAA Midwest Traveler ranks it as one of the best regional day trips from Kansas City. 

7. Excelsior Springs

Distance:  28.4 miles

Travel Time: 36 mins

Excelsior Springs is a beautiful, historic, and romantic Missouri town. The spa community, famous for its mineral waters, has been pampering guests since the late 1800s and shows no sign of stopping. Start your visit at the Elms Hotel & Spa . Founded in 1888, these guys know how to make you feel special. They offer every luxurious spa service you can imagine as well as salon services. Al Capone and Harry S. Truman were patrons of the hotel, and we figure it is good enough for them, it’s probably good enough for you too! 

Learn more about the history of the Excelsior Springs at the Hall of Waters and the visitor center downtown. The town also offers historic trolley rides, tastings at several local breweries and wineries, and a great golf course at the Excelsior Spring Golf Club. 

Day Trips for Nature Lovers

8. lake of the ozarks, missouri.

Distance:  146.3 miles

Travel Time: 2 hr 35 mins

Lake of the Ozarks is an incredible day trip for nature lovers and families. There are so many things to do in and around the lake that you will definitely need more than one day trip. 

Of course, you could spend the day in the cool water of the reservoir, just swimming, boating, fishing, or kayaking. But, there is so much more on offer. If you have kids in tow, consider heading for Big Surf Waterpark and hopping in the 375,000-gallon wave pool . If you prefer a hike, then head for the 30 miles of hiking trails that surround the lake, or even better, hop a little further south down to Ha Ha Tonka State Park.

At Ha Ha Tonka, you have natural springs, caves, sinkholes, and a huge natural bridge to explore. Not to mention the park has its own castle, or at the least the ruins of one. The house was built by a prominent Kansas City businessman at the turn of the 20th century. It’s pretty awesome to stand in castle ruins and overlook the bluff to picturesque Lake of the Ozarks. It is especially beautiful during the fall months when the trees lining the bluff are bright yellow, orange, and red.  

9. Louisburg, Kansas

Distance:  39.3 miles

Travel Time: 40 mins

Louisburg is a small town around 40 miles south of Kansas City and is home to the Louisburg Cider Mill where you can learn everything you need to know about apple cider. It’s not just a mill though, it’s an entire adorable farm and village, including a general store where you can get some apple butter, and a pumpkin patch and corn maze. It’s a great stop for a warm day when you just want to be outside and enjoy nature’s bounty.

Next, move from the ground to the sky and visit Powell Observatory. The observatory was built in 1984 and now has one of the largest telescopes in a 5-state area, the Ruisinger Telescope. In addition to peering through the scope, the observatory also hosts public education nights on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of May-October. On these special nights, educational topics in the field of Astronomy are discussed by experts, and they are both interesting and educational! 

If you are an animal lover, consider stopping at the Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory and Education Center and meet the Siberian and Bengal tigers. 

10. Lawrence, Kansas

Distance: 40.4 miles

Lawrence, Kansas is a college town and home to the University of Kansas Jayhawks. While many visit Lawrence for the Spencer Museum of Art, or the Lawrence Museum of History, it is also a great day trip for outdoor activities. 

Fisherman will enjoy a day at Clinton State Park. The 1,500-acre park sits on the north shore of Clinton Lake and is known for its population of Channel Catfish, Crappie, and Walleye. Birders and wildlife watchers can also catch a glimpse of Bald Eagles, wild turkey, and waterfowl. The park also boasts a large system of hiking and biking trails. In the summer visitors enjoy the wildflower fields, and in the winter cross-country skiers have their run of the place. 

Next, visit Prairie Park Nature Center for some time with the beavers and bobcats that call the wetlands home. It is also a wonderful place for birders to observe birds of prey like hawks and falcons. 

If scary birds aren’t your thing, heads for the aromatic lavender fields at Washington Creek , a family-owned farm with over 5,000 plants. We absolutely love exploring the region around Lawrence!

11. Powell Gardens

Distance:  39.9 miles

Travel Time: 48 mins

There is no more relaxing day trip from Kansas City than to explore the immense Powell Gardens . As Kansas City’s premier botanical garden, Powell has been welcoming visitors since 1988. The 175-acre landscape that is open to the public is just a portion of the more than 970 acres of plant life they grow. 

Powell Gardens offers a three-mile nature trail, eight themed gardens, several seasonal and rotating exhibits, and seasonal festivals. The gardens also boast Heartland Harvest Garden, one of the nation’s largest edible gardens, and you can savor some of its delicacies at the on-site dining facilities. If you love flowers, herbs, and veggies, we highly recommend a day trip to Powell Gardens. It’s just peaceful and rejuvenating!

Day Trips for Families

12. wamego, kansas.

Distance:  107.7 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 41 mins

For a great day trip with the whole family, point your car west of Kansas City and head for Wamego. This small town is home to the quirky Oz Museum , a museum dedicated to all things Wizard of Oz. The museum features early copies of the book, vintage Parker Brothers board games, collectibles, and Oz Memorabilia from the franchise’s long history. The museum is the largest private collection of Oz memorabilia in the world. Even the winery in town is Oz-themed.

If you aren’t a fan of Dorothy and her friends, Wamego is still a great destination for many. The Lazy Heart D Ranch offers rides through bison populated fields, giving your family the opportunity to get up close and personal with the majestic beasts. You can also explore parts of the original Oregon Trail , which somehow still bares the wagon ruts from settlers’ caravans in places. Culture vultures will love visiting the Schonoff Dutch Mill from 1870, complete with an adorable windmill, and the Wamego Historical Museum . Prairie Village has a wonderful collection of authentic historic structures from the 1800s. Talk about a fun-filled day!

13. Jamesport, MO: Amish Country

Distance:  82.0 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 22 mins

Tired of seeing your kid on their cell phone all day, take them back in time to a simpler world in Jamesport . Sample horse-churched ice cream, peruse collections of hand-crafted furniture, chow down on homemade bread, feed the baby cows, and have a unique and rare family experience, with no technology in sight. 

Jamesport is Missouri’s largest Amish community, and the people here are so friendly! Make sure to take the kids to Homestead Creamery where you can explore a real dairy farm and watch the cheese-making happen right before your eyes. Then make a pit stop at the Gingerich Dutch Pantry and get a homemade pie. 

For a day away from the bustle of the city with the family, you can’t do better than the peace of Jamesport.

Day Trips for Couples

14. somerset wine trail.

Distance:  44.5 miles

Travel Time: 45 mins

What is more romantic than a day away in the vineyards? Nothing…the answer is nothing. Take your honey on the Somerset Wine Trail for a tour of four of the region’s best vineyards and wineries. The trail starts just south of Overland Park and visits Somerset Ridge, Nighthawk, Middle Creek, and White Wind Farms. 

The wineries are located in Louisburg, so when you have had your fill of wine tasting, then cap your romantic day with nighttime stargazing at Powell Observatory!

15. Hermann, Missouri

Distance:  188.4 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 54 mins

​Hermann is adorable! The German heritage site has more than 100 structures on the National Register of Historic Places. If you and your significant other are history lovers or Deutschophiles, then visit the Historic Hermann Museum, Hermann Farm, and Deutschem State Historic Park for a full historical overview of the German heritage of the town.

For a wonderful wine tasting, try out the Hermannhof Winery , or spend your afternoon getting pampered at Hermann Hill Spa. If you choose to make it a weekend getaway, then you must book a stay at Alpenhorn Gasthaus . This beautiful bed and breakfast/winery combination is so romantic. It sits atop a lovely hill and oozes European charm. Plus, it is just minutes from the antique shops, microbreweries, and art galleries of town. They have an outdoor hot tub, a candlelit wine cellar, some serious fine dining, including gourmet breakfast, and even cooking classes. In two words, it’s pure magic!

16. Chateau Avalon

Distance:  16.6 miles

Travel Time: 20 mins

Chateau Avalon is technically in Kansas City, but we are counting it a romantic day trip because this place is a world away from the hustle of the city. The chateau is dripping with French refinement and features one of the largest fountains around. The property boasts 61 unique, themed guest rooms ranging from adventurous to totally luxe! The property also has its own bar and small plate restaurant, as well as an onsite full spa. If you want your pampering in bed, no problem, that spa staff will come right to you. It’s the ultimate romantic destination, and you will never want to leave!

Day Trips for City Lovers

17. overland park.

Distance:  11.9 miles

Overland Park is one of the easiest and best day trips from Kansas City! The city offers a large selection of cultural institutions to visit. Start your day at the complete architectural wonder, the Museum at Prairiefire . Spend some time marveling at the exterior before you head inside to a world of giant T-rex, mammoths of the sea, and virtual reality space encounters. The museum is hands-on and a fun place for both adults and children. 

If you have any interest in rodeo, livestock, agriculture, ag-business, or horse shows, then head over to the American Royal Museum next. The museum is interactive and very educational. It is especially fun in October when rodeo and livestock competitions are happening. 

Art lovers head for the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum is on the campus of Johnson County Community College. The collection of emerging and well-positioned contemporary artists is internationally acclaimed, and the small campus receives over 100,000 visitors a year to the museum. It’s a large collection of sculptures, paintings, drawings, photography, and ceramics in a fantastic modern building clad with Kansas limestone. It’s worth an hour or two of your time!

18. Wichita, Kansas

Distance:  191.5 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 53 mins

Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and makes for a great day trip. Hop on the Q-Line Trolley and explore the city for free! Stop in the Old Cowtown Museum and get a glimpse of life in Wichita in the late 1800s. The collection is a whole town really, with historic structures, clothing, period furniture, tools, and farming equipment. Costumed interpreters will help you understand and walk you through the 54 structures!

If you have an interest in Native American life, then visit the Mid-America All-Indian Center next and learn all there is to know about the Plains Indian tribes. Take the footbridge over the plaza to admire the 44-foot steel Indian, “The Keeper of the Plains.” The art piece was constructed by Blackbear Bosin, in 1974, and has been watching over the city ever since. It stands in an area of importance to Native Americans at the convergence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers. At certain times of day, a ring of fire burns around the structure, making it even more magnificent!

Head for Old Town Wichita and the entertainment district where you can fill your afternoon with unique shops and galleries, and then hit the bars for a little nightlife.

19. Topeka, Kansas

Distance:  63.3 miles

Topeka is the capital of Kansas and a beautiful city to visit on a day trip from Kansas City. Start your day with a trip to the Kansas State Capitol Building and admire the art and architecture. The immense and glorious structure took over 37 years to build, and with its 2014 renovation, it is shining like the day it was built. It’s an opulent and grand old lady and worth your time. 

The North Topeka Arts District is the place for art lovers. The old business district is in a period of renewal and change. NOTO has brought in several antique shops, small art galleries, bookstores, boutiques, and eateries that have made the district a vibrant and fun place to visit. 

Those interested in Civil Rights sites should visit the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site and learn about Kansas’s role in the battle for desegregation of public schools. 

Explore the death-defying feats and life of motorcycle legend, Evel Knievel at the museum of the same name! This place is awesome. It details the life, rides, and history of the great entertainer, as well as immersing you in virtual reality exhibits that really get your heart pumping. It’s a beautifully curated museum and a lot of fun to visit. 

If you haven’t had your fill of culture, the Mulvane Art Museum and the Kansas Museum of History are also great, and Lake Shawnee is the perfect outdoor stroll to get some fresh air! For evening, catch a live show at the Topeka Civic Theatre , the oldest continually running dinner theater in the United States!

20. Omaha, Nebraska

Distance:  186.5 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 47 mins

Now we head into another state, Nebraska (told you Kansas City is perfectly situated)! Omaha is a fun and vibrant city. The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium will probably top all Omaha travel guides you read, and with good reason. This incredible zoo features an immense walk-through tunnel aquarium and an absolutely amazing desert dome. Not to mention, every other interactive plant and wildlife exhibit you can imagine. It’s a full day and a good one!

If you have more time, take a wander through the more than 100 acres of flora at Lauritzen Gardens . Explore the wonderful collection at the Joslyn Art Museum, or learn about the history of the era in the Art-Deco train station turned museum, the Durham Museum. 

Meander through the Old Market area with its 19th-century buildings and cobblestone streets and visit the galleries and shops hidden within its beautiful facade! Omaha is one of the best day trips from Kansas City, especially for animal and art lovers!

Closing Thoughts

Kansas City is a fabulous vacation destination. Spend a few days there exploring all it has to offer, but make sure to take advantage of its close proximity to historic sites, natural wonders, and other awesome cities too! 

Let us know which day trip you are going to take in the comments! 

For more great ideas on how to explore Kansas City, check out our ultimate guide of the “ The Best Things to do In Kansas City, MO .”

Visit our Explorer Blog for more great day trip ideas and travel guides for cities around the world! Wherever you want to roam, our experts have probably been there and have you covered!

Frequently Asked Questions

There are day trips from Kansas City to suit just about any occasion! The best romantic getaways include Chateau Avalon, the vineyards of the Somerset Wine Trail, or the charming town of Hermann.

For an educational day trip from Kansas City , explore Civil War history in Carthage, visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, or learn about Amelia Earhart in her home city of Atchison.

Families visiting the Heart of America can try a scavenger hunt to explore local attractions, take a day trip to nearby historic towns like Leavenworth and Independence, or head to the Lake of the Ozarks !

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Day Trips From Kansas City

The Best Day Trips From Kansas City, Missouri

Kathryn Greene is a freelance writer specializing in travel, lifestyle, fashion, and more. Kathryn's work has appeared in FAD Magazine, Spoiled NYC, and other publications.

Kansas City, Missouri, or Paris of the Plains as it is called, has everything to offer in dining, sporting events, and scenic views, but just like Paris, sometimes what you’re looking for is right outside the city limits. Whether you’re in the mood to relax lakeside in Missouri’s favorite resort town, soak in the culture in nearby Omaha, or board a wine trolley and explore vineyards in a nearby city, there are plenty of adventures awaiting, all three hours or less away by car.

Excelsior Springs: Nine Rounds and Relaxation

 The Elms Hotel & Spa

Hit nine rounds at the Excelsior Springs Golf Course before heading to the town’s centerpiece, The Elms Hotel & Spa . Open since 1912, the historic hotel has checked in guests including Al Capone, Harry S. Truman, and Jack Dempsey. Get a day pass and explore The Grotto, an underground spa with an exfoliation bar, saunas, and hot tub. Or book a service like a massage or facial in the cave-like setting. The grounds can keep you entertained all day long between relaxing and dining at 88 at the Elms or the café. If you’re looking to be spooked, The Elms offers nightly ghost tours that play on the resort’s history. On your way home, stop at the Dari B Drive-In for old fashioned ice cream.

Getting There: Get to Excelsior Springs in approximately 35 minutes by car via I-35 North.

Travel Tip: During high-volume times, day passes to The Grotto may be unavailable – call ahead and book one in advance to be safe. 

Lake of the Ozarks: Lakeside Fun in the Sun

 tomorrowspix/Getty Images

Sure it has inspired a hit show, but the real Lake of the Ozarks is a family-friendly resort town. Missouri’s favorite place for a lake vacation, there are a multitude of ways to spend your time between golfing, fishing, dining, boating, or just lounging on one of the two public beaches. Go to Iguana Watersports for boat and jet ski rentals. Head underground to Jacob’s Cave for a mile-long walk to see stalactites up close. If you’re bringing your kids, take them to Miner Mike’s , an indoor “adventure town” with games and prizes.

Getting There: Two hours and 45 minutes via I-70 E in a car.

Travel Tip: The official Lake of the Ozarks season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Although things are open year-round, it is a town best enjoyed during the summer months.

Weston, Missouri: A Historic Distillery

Holladay Distillery 

Cross the Missouri River and transport yourself back in time. Weston, Missouri is home to Holladay Distillery , one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. Take a tour of the facility to see its historic buildings, world-class bottling facilities, and taste their White Dog bourbon. Lantern-led tours are also offered at night for a different experience. After the tour, go to Main Street in nearby Platte City to McCormick on Main. One part shop and one part bar, the rustic spot offers samples of other McCormick Distilling products. Once you’ve narrowed down your favorite, or let’s be honest favorites, full-sized bottles are available to purchase as well as souvenirs and t-shirts.

Getting There: By car, Weston, Missouri is 45 minutes from downtown Kansas City. Or if you’re already at the Kansas City International Airport (MCI) you can take a 20-minute shuttle ride directly to the distillery. 

Travel Tip: Walk-ins are accepted based on availability, so try to make a reservation in advance. A majority of the tour is outside so wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing.  

Lawrence, Kansas: Sunflowers and Sunshine

 Derek Slagle/Getty Images

The home of the University of Kansas’ Jayhawks, Lawrence, Kansas is a quaint college town. Along its historic main street, Massachusetts Street, there is shopping, spas, restaurants, and bars. But Lawrence is worth the trip for Grinter Sunflower Farms alone, where sunflowers bloom across dozens of acres. It’s a stunning sight any time but particularly during sunrise and sunset, perfect for a photo op. Nearby Clinton Lake is a popular spot for camping, but you don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy it. There are hiking trails, fishing ponds, sand volleyball and disc golf courses if you’re looking for outdoor activities.

Getting There: A 40-minute drive by car will get you to Lawrence, KS. From the airport, there are also many 24/7 shuttle services that can take you directly to the town, for a fee.

Travel Tip: If you drive via I-70, you will have to pay a toll prior to entering Lawrence.

Wichita, Kansas: Explore by Streetcar

Davel5957/Getty Images

The Little Arkansas River runs right through Wichita, making it one of the most picturesque – and largest – cities in Kansas. The best way to explore is by hopping on the Q Line Trolley, which is free. Reminiscent of New Orleans’ iconic streetcars, the Q Line runs from Delano to Clifton Square, allowing you to see the city hands-free without focusing on your car's GPS. A must-see is the Cowtown Museum . A replication of 1870s Wichita, the open-air museum brings a Wild West town back to life in painstaking, life-size detail. Walk down Main Street, see a one-room schoolhouse, and even businesses like banks, drugstores, and a blacksmith. At night, go to the Keeper of the Plains, a statue on the bank where the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers meet. Nightly, the “ring of fire” under the statue is set ablaze.

Getting There: Take I-70 W to 1-35 S by car and you’ll arrive in Wichita in just about three hours.

Travel Tip: If you visit in April, you’ll get to experience the Wichita Jazz Festival , which has been put on every year since 1972.

Omaha, Nebraska: Culture and Sculpture

RiverNorthPhotography/Getty Images 

If day-tripping to a different state interests you, Omaha, Nebraska is a great choice. The Joslyn Art Museum has pieces in its permanent collection by Andrew Wyeth, Thomas Hart Benson, and Ed Ruscha. After you’re through perusing the exhibits, head outdoors to the Peter Kiewit Sculpture Garden. Nearby, the Discovery Garden is a bright and inviting outdoor space for children with interactive artwork. For more culture, continue on to the Durham Museum , inside Omaha’s Union Station which frequently hosts different exhibits and also houses the Byron Reed Gallery of ancient coins, medals, and other memorabilia. Five minutes from the Durham Museum, see the original site of Lewis and Clark’s exploration along the riverfront, where the duo landed in 1804.

Getting There: By car, Omaha clocks in at two minutes shy of three hours.

Travel Tip: General admission to the Joslyn Art Museum is free.

Kingsville, Missouri: An Oasis Awaits

Containing nine extensive gardens each with their own theme, The Powell Gardens are a modern oasis. Lush grounds, flora, and idyllic ponds are transformed regularly each season and for various festivals hosted throughout the year including the Festival of Butterflies, Booms & Blooms, Fall Fling: Through the Looking Glass, and the Festival of Lights. Feel free to wander autonomously or enrich the experience through activities. The Powell Gardens offers activities for kids, conservatory talks, and even photography workshops. Take a snack break at any point at Café Thyme or the Refresh Snack Stop.

Getting There: An hour by car via MO-350 E to US-50 E.

Travel Tip: Hours of the gardens’ operation vary by season. Plan your visit by checking here .

Paola, Kansas: A Wine Trolley and Vineyard Tours

NightHawk Winery

Paola, Kansas is home to a surprising amount of wineries and vineyards. Starting it all in 2001 was Somerset Ridge Vineyard and Winery which produces approximately 5,000 cases annually. All within a 15-minute drive, nearby NightHawk Vineyard and Winery , White Wind Farms, and Middle Creek Winery make up the Somerset Wine Trail. Explore on your own or board the Miami County Trolley, which will connect you and your group to each location in a charming ride. Though it’s not part of the official trail, make sure to also stop by the Louisburg Cider Mill . Open year-round, you can try some of their famous apple cider, fruit butters, or doughnuts — get some enjoy on the ride home. 

Getting There: 50 minutes on I-35 S by car.

Travel Tip: Call the Miami County Trolley to arrange pickup and drop-off based on your chosen itinerary at 916-306-3388. 

Rocheport, Missouri: Get Active Alongside Scenic Views

marekuliasz/Getty Images

If you’re looking for a more active day trip, Rocheport is the place for you. Bike or hike along the scenic Katy Trail , or book a guided canoe or kayak trip down the Missouri River through Mighty Mo Canoe Rental . Given Rocheport’s proximity to St. Louis, it’s no surprise that it is home to the Budweiser Clydesdales which you can see up close at Warm Springs Ranch by buying a ticket in advance.

Getting There: Halfway between Kansas City and St. Louis, Rocheport is just a 90-minute drive by car.

Travel Tip: If you choose to explore the Katy Trail by bike, they can be rented from Bike Stop Café . Fuel yourself with a cup of coffee before you head out. 

Emporia, Kansas: Magical Landscapes

Hays House Restaurant

When you think of Kansas, you’re probably picturing tallgrass sprawling across the landscape as far as the eye can see across the plains. Go for a leisurely drive though Emporia and the surrounding area and when you’re finished stop at Hay’s House in Council Grove, the oldest restaurant in Kansas, started by Daniel Boone’s grandson. Their skillet fried chicken and chicken fried steaks are a must-order.

Getting There: A one hour and 50-minute drive on I-35 South.

Travel Tip: Solo 24-hour bike race Dirty Kanza takes place every summer and covers 200 miles of terrain

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Weekend in Kansas City: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)

Planning a trip to Kansas City, Missouri? Read on for a complete weekend in Kansas City itinerary including the best things to do, where to eat and drink, where to stay and other essential tips written by a local if you have 36 to 48 hours in Kansas City .

– Written by Kaitlyn from Adventures of Kaitlyn and Nick  –

Kansas City is a great place to visit in the Midwest with a lot of things to do, see, and eat even National Geographic has identified Kansas City as a top destination (#10!) for 2019.

We have lived in Kansas City, Missouri for more than three years now and have explored the city as both tourists and locals. This weekend in Kansas City itinerary captures some of our favorite things and some of Kansas City’s most popular attractions.

Kansas City Travel Tips

Kansas City is almost in the center of the United States. It is easily reached by driving from the rest of the Midwest or by flying into Kansas City International Airport (MCI) . The airport is about a 30 minute drive from downtown, so make sure to take that into account if you have a specific timeline after arriving.

Kansas City is a large and spread out metropolis. In order to explore the city a car is the best option. Uber and Lyft are available if needed, but to explore during the day your own vehicle would be nice.

Downtown Kansas City is broken up into multiple districts. They are all pretty close to each other, but not walking distance. The areas include the West Bottoms, the Plaza, and Power and Light.

Kansas City is located in the Midwest so it experiences some warm weather in the summer and cold weather in the winter. I am a warm weather girl, so I recommend visiting in the spring, summer, or fall. Kansas City can be struck by snow or ice, so travel in the winter can be a little iffy if you aren’t used to travelling in winter conditions.

One final thing, the Kansas City that most people picture is actually located in Missouri, not Kansas. There is a Kansas City, Kansas and it connects across the border to Kansas City, Missouri. We’ve only lived here for three years, but there is a clear rivalry of Kansas vs Missouri in those that have grown up here. This doesn’t just pertain to Kansas City, but includes the suburbs as well. This is just something good to keep in mind as you talk to different locals during your stay.

Where to Stay in Kansas City

If you are looking to stay close to nightlife there are hotels in the Plaza and near the Power and Light District.

Hilton President is a neat hotel in a very old building within walking distance of the Power and Light District. It is a great place to stay if you are planning to explore the bars in this area. I have stayed here for work trips before moving to Kansas City and can say it is very nice. It also stands out as a staple of the Kansas City skyline.

There are multiple hotels in the Plaza. I have stayed at the Sheraton Suites Country Club Plaza before while travelling for work and know it is within walking distance to Jack Stack BBQ on the Plaza.

If you are looking for a cheaper option the liberty or worlds of fun area have a lot of hotels too. (We actually live close to Worlds of Fun) these areas are about a 20 minute drive to downtown or the airport and have some of their own attractions too.

Another option is Airbnb. I haven’t used Airbnb in Kansas City before, but have used it in multiple other cities and loved it! It is a great way to get a more local feel for a destination without the higher cost of a hotel in these areas. If you haven’t used Airbnb before, use my link to sign up and get something off your first stay (and we will get something off our next trip too!)

Day 1 in Kansas City Itinerary: Q39, The Plaza, Char Bar

Arrive in Kansas City!

I would plan on some good Kansas City barbecue for dinner. My favorite place (for now) is Q39 which is located in a hip area of town called 39th Street with shops, bars, and restaurants. It is not your typical hole in the wall barbecue joint but is still delicious, trust me. My favorite is the burnt end burger with an appetizer of their onion rings. Get there early or be prepared for a wait. You can also make a reservation online if you do it early enough.

If you get to town a little earlier and have time before dinner I recommend walking around the Plaza. You can also sign up for a segway tour here . The Plaza boasts fancy stores, unique architecture, and beautiful lights during the holiday season.

If you can still walk after you are stuffed with bbq, check out one of the bars on 39th Street like Char Bar . They also have good barbecue, but my favorite part is the outdoor area. There is a covered patio, a huge outdoor bar, and a large grassy games area with room for cornhole and hanging out by fire pits.

Day 2 in Kansas City Itinerary: City Market, National WWI Museum and Memorial, Joe’s KC, Power & Light District

City market.

When you get up Saturday morning head on down to City Market . Here you can walk around and admire local crafts, vegetables, and other goodies. City Market is also lined with restaurants. Stop by City Market Coffee or get a lemonade from a vendor and a snack to tide you over til lunch. On Saturdays and Sundays local farmers and vendors set up multiple rows of their goods. We love to buy produce, honey, flowers, and even specialty products here.

If you can hold out for lunch in City Market you won’t be disappointed. There are a lot of choices here, but I recommend Habashi House . It has delicious Middle Eastern fare and the best hummus I’ve ever had. They have great gyros and platters as well as baklava for desert.

Also in City Market is the Arabia Steamboat Museum . We haven’t visited this museum, but I’ve heard from co-workers it is pretty cool, but a little on the pricey side.

National WWI Museum and Memorial

Once you’ve had your fun at City Market, head on over to the National WWI Museum and Memorial . This is the only museum dedicated to WWI in the country. The museum is beautiful and you can also take a ride to the top of the memorial for a unique city skyline view.

Joe’s KC

For an early dinner head to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Joe’s KC) . Yes another BBQ place, but you won’t be sorry! This restaurant is located in Kansas City, Kansas and in a functioning gas station. They have won more awards than I can count and are very popular for locals and tourists alike. On Wednesdays and Saturdays they have a Burnt Ends plate I highly recommend. Other days i would choose their Z-Man which is a brisket sandwich. I love their onion rings and Nick loves their fries. Both come with a great seasoning on them that can’t be beat!

Again be prepared for a long wait if you come during normal eating times. For lunch I would recommend getting there at 11:00 a.m. (when they open), and for dinner no later than 5:00 p.m. if you don’t want to wait in line for an hour.

Power & Light District

Tonight head to the Power & Light District for nightlife. This is a great area that is basically an enclosed city block. There are bars and restaurants around the perimeter and an open space inside where you can walk with your drinks! If you are there in the summer there are free country concerts in on Thursday nights.

The outdoor area is covered so no need to worry about weather. There is a piano bar and a bar with a mechanical bull!

Day 3 in Kansas City Itinerary: First Watch, Kansas City Zoo

First watch.

For your last day in the city I recommend heading to First Watch for breakfast/brunch. There is a location just north of downtown and a few more have opened in the last year too. It is a place specifically for breakfast and brunch and has some great options. I love their breakfast tacos!

Kansas City Zoo

If the weather is nice I recommend visiting the Kansas City Zoo . It is a large zoo, so bring your walking shoes! My favorite part is the kangaroos that are not enclosed at all! They lay on the grass looking so much like people, I could watch them for way too long. It is easy to spend a half of a day walking and looking at all the animals! Bring your own water bottle and snacks to save some money for when you get inevitably hungry and thirsty.

I know you will leave Kansas City today feeling like you just have to come back! When you do, check out my post on fun things to do in Kansas City for inspiration!

More Things to Do in Kansas City

There are so many fun things to do in Kansas City it is hard to pick just a few for a weekend. If you find yourself completing this itinerary quickly or just want some different options here are some more good choices.

Royals, Chiefs, Sporting KC, and Basketball

Kansas City also has multiple major sports teams. Depending on the time of year you visit you could watch soccer, baseball, or football. The Chiefs and Royals are located right beside each other (they actually share a parking lot!) on the east side of town. Sporting KC is the male professional soccer team that has a very loyal following and the games are a blast to attend even if you aren’t a big soccer fan. Kansas City also often hosts big 12 basketball tournament games if the season is right.

Union Station

Another favorite of ours is to visit Union Station . This is the train station in town that is still operational. It is a beautiful old building that hosts many festivals and unique exhibits throughout the year.

We have seen bodies, legos, dinosaurs, giant insects, and mummies at the rotating exhibits here. There is also a science museum in Union Station that is great for kids, or adults who are still young at heart.

Their exhibits are typically on the expensive side, but they are also exhibits that travel around the country and might be a once in a lifetime chance to see.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a haven for art lovers. We have been three times and haven’t seen everything yet. The best part is the museum is free. You will have to pay for parking but can’t beat the experience for the price if you love art and culture.

There are also sculptures on a large lawn in front of the museum. It is a perfect place for a picnic or just enjoying the weather and people watching.

The West Bottoms

One final adventure we love during the warmer months is First Fridays . This occurs in Westport where there are lots of art galleries, antique, and boutique shops to walk through. Streets are closed down and food trucks line the streets during the first weekend of the month. The shops are open most weekends but without as much of the hoopla.

As you can see, there are a lot of reasons Kansas City isn’t just another fly over city in the Midwest. With this itinerary you can have a great weekend in Kansas City whether you’re from near or far.

Kaitlyn is a chemical engineer by day and adventurer by weekend. With Adventures of Kaitlyn and Nick she seeks to share their adventures and inspire everyone to explore and see this great world.  Follow her on  facebook , instagram ,  pinterest , and twitter .

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savvyglobetrotter

I have some family in Kansas City, although I have not done much there yet. Joe’s KC looks so busy, but I love a good BBQ joint! I will save this for later so I know what to do next time I am in the area.

I haven’t been to Kansas City, but I know it’s in Missouri and just heard about one in Kansas. lol. I can’t wait to try the BBQ, visit the Union Station, the Nelson-Atkins Museum and other places that I’ve heard before. I know one day we will stop here on our way home from Illinois, looking for a new itinerary. Good read and pinned this article for future reference.

Honestly I’ve never thought too much about Kansas City before but it looks like an awesome city! I’d love to go someday though I don’t think I’m welcome as a Patriots fan right now haha

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9 Incredible Weekend Getaways You Absolutely Must Take From Kansas City

Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.

More by this Author

Do you have any vacation days just waiting to be used? These weekend getaways are the perfect thing to try when you can’t seem to choose what to do with your time. In just a few hours, you can be at your destination and ready to enjoy your weekend away. Unless you want to stay longer, that is! We’ve organized them by distance from Kansas City to make it easy to pick how far you’d like to travel:

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If you’re looking for a shorter trip away from home instead of a day or two away, you should check out some of these amazing hiking trails right around Kansas City.

Where’s your favorite spot for a weekend getaway? Share your suggestions in the comments below. Happy travels!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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• Roadside Attractions
• Small Towns
• Hall Of Fames
• National Parks
• Theme Parks
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• Meet Bill On The Road

If you’ve not been to Little Rock in the last five years, you owe it to yourself to make a return trip. Arkansas’ capital city is on the move with new restaurants and things to see and do popping up all the time.  The River Market District has become a great spot for local nightlife with outdoor concerts, a weekend farmers market, shops, a sculpture walk, and pedestrian bridges that light up each night with cool LED multi-colored lights. If you’re a history buff, the Clinton Presidential Museum is a must, as well as Central High School where the Little Rock 9 made world headlines at the start of the civil rights movement.  If you need something cool for the kids – be sure to visit the Museum of Discovery and take a tour of the USS Razorback submarine docked on the north bank of the Arkansas River.

Bill’s Advice:   Any time I’ve ever suggested Little Rock as a road trip stop, people will always tell me how surprised they were at what a great city it is.  The people are friendly, it’s a foodies paradise, and guys – you’ll earn extra brownie points for taking your lady to the only purse museum in the United States.  You’re welcome. 

Travel Time: 6h 15m / 410 miles 

2. Winterset, Iowa

I’ve been visiting Winterset in Madison County, Iowa for years and always enjoy each opportunity to visit this lovely community located a short drive from Des Moines.  If you love the feel of small town U.S.A. where people are still patriotic and treat their neighbors like family – this is the place for you.  It’s a perfect trip for a romantic getaway or an extended weekend for small town shopping, and outdoor recreation.  Winterset is best known as the hometown of movie legend John Wayne and famous for its beautiful covered bridges that were featured in the film  The Bridges Of Madison County.   Also, be sure to check out the Iowa Quilt Museum and the newly restored movie theater on the square –  The Iowa.   

Bill’s Advice:  Madison County is awesome for a long weekend, romantic getaway, or ladies looking for a road trip with friends.  Make it an extended visit by adding in a visit to nearby Des Moines or other small Iowa towns along the way.  

Travel Time: 2h 45m / 190 miles

3. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis has always been a popular road trip destination for Kansas City locals but did you know there’s much more to experience besides the Arch or a Cardinals/Royals baseball game? St. Louis Union Station has been brought back to life with new attractions like the St. Louis Wheel and St. Louis Aquarium. St. Louis has a “free” zoo that consistently ranks as one of the top zoos in America. Forest Park has paddle boats and golfing in the warm months, and free museums for families year round. Grab some great Italian food in the famous “Hill” neighborhood or try a new restaurant in “The Grove” or in one of the many unique downtowns in dozens of St. Louis County municipalities.

If you want to try a few “quirky” experiences while visiting St. Louis, check out this fun list I’ve put together called: 10 Quirky Things To Do In St. Louis.

Bill’s Advice: If you have kids, St. Louis has so many free attractions for the family – it’s crazy! Grant’s Farm, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Science Center, and Art Museum to name a few! The City Museum isn’t free, but one of the most popular spots for visitors!

Travel Time: 3h 30m / 248 miles

4. Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins is one of the coolest cities in Colorado and less than ten hours away from metro Kansas City. There are restaurants galore, beautiful scenery, and for beer lovers – more than 20 craft breweries. For nature fans, check out the trial flower gardens at Colorado State University and grab an Instagrammable selfie with the giant Campbell’s Soup can! Fort Collins is also a town where they take bicycles seriously – you’ll encounter them everywhere.

Bill’s Advice: One of my favorite places to dine in Fort Collins is The Farmhouse at Jessup Farm – the food is incredible! If you’re into quirky restaurants – there’s a fun 80’s themed pizza joint/museum in a strip mall outside of downtown that’s worth a visit. While you’re visiting, also be sure to check out the section of downtown Fort Collins that inspired Disneyland’s Main Street USA .

Travel Time: 9h 20m / 650 miles

5. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee may be known worldwide for cheese and beer but there’s so much more!  You can keep busy for several days exploring places like the  Harley-Davidson Museum , the  Milwaukee Public Market , and watching the famous wings open on the  Milwaukee Art Museum .  If you love a good festival – Milwaukee has lots and lots of them including the world’s largest music festival each summer.  The city has an endless amount of great food for all tastes, and don’t forget the beautiful views of Lake Michigan.  Take the time to explore some of the historic downtown neighborhoods and don’t leave without buying a bag of fresh cheese curds for your road trip home.

Bill’s Advice:   Milwaukee is perfect for a long weekend or an extended trip – there’s lots to see and do!  Be sure to track down the Fonzie statue – the TV sitcom Happy Days was based in Milwaukee.

Travel Time: 8hr 20m / 560 miles

6. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City has been busy over the last few years and has become a legit travel destination.  Bricktown is the hot spot for nightlife and dining, while the city’s other neighborhoods (called “districts”) all offer something interesting for visitors.  The Oklahoma City bombing memorial is a must-visit and the National Cowboy Museum and Hall of Fame is pretty interesting.  If you don’t know anything about banjos – don’t let that deter you from checking out the American Banjo Museum either!  It’s very cool.  But the best part of OKC’s re-birth is all of the food!  It’s insane how many new restaurants have popped up in the city limits over the last few years.  If you love good food, you will love Oklahoma City!

Bill’s Advice:  While exploring, make some time to chill out at the Myriad Botanical Garden – a 15 acre urban garden downtown.  Oklahoma City also has a new streetcar,  although they charge a $3.00 fee to use it for the day.  It’s probably worth it as the routes take you all over town and you won’t have to worry about driving. 

Travel Time: 5h 4m / 353 miles

7. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls is great for a weekend getaway. Spend some time at Falls Park and enjoy the views and sounds of the gushing waterfalls. Downtown has some great restaurants and is famous for their cool sculptures that line the streets. If you enjoy bike riding, Sioux Falls has some great paths for exploring. On the way, stop in Vermillion to see the National Music Museum – home to 15,000 musical instruments!

Travel Time: 4h 36m / 300 miles

8. Wichita, Kansas

Wichita is a pleasant surprise. Start by learning about the early days of Kansas at the Old Cowtown Museum which has actors and buildings you can explore to truly step back in time.  Check out the Delano neighborhood for some cool shops and good food.  Get a hat at Hatman Jack’s – known for providing custom hats to lots of celebrities.  Tell him I sent you!  And if you’ve ever eaten Pizza Hut, I bet you didn’t know that it started in Wichita. Yep, the original Pizza Hut location is a tiny brick building and now a museum on the campus of Wichita State University.   There is so much to do and the people are so welcoming!

Bill’s Advice:  If you do anything while you’re in Wichita – be sure to check out the famous Keeper Of The Plains monument at night.  Check ahead for times, but each evening there’s a fire show along the water across the pedestrian bridge.  The local science museum – Exploration Place is great for kids, too! 

Travel Time: 3h / 196 miles

9. Missouri’s “Genius” Highway 36

You may be surprised to learn that  Missouri’s Highway 36  is named in honor of the many American geniuses that once called “the show me state” home.   Drive up to St. Joseph and learn about Walter Cronkite and see where The Pony Express began. Then head east on 36 to see the childhood homes of J.C. Penney, Walt Disney, and Mark Twain. You can also visit the birthplace of “sliced-bread” in the town of Chillicothe.

Bill’s Advice To explore the entire “genius highway”, after you visit the Walter Cronkite Memorial and Pony Express Headquarters, head to Hamilton (J.C. Penney/Missouri Quilting Co.) and spend a night at one of their local B&B’s. The next day, head east to see Disney’s hometown of Marceline, and then stop for the night in Hannibal. Check out Mark Twain’s childhood hometown and then head back home!

10. Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

Get two destinations in one road trip! Both Dallas and Fort Worth have plenty of things to see and do. Take a trip to the top of Reunion Tower, or visit the historic site where JFK where killed. Dallas is loaded with great museums and restaurants. Forth Worth is home to the world famous Fort Worth Stockyards, which is a great place to experience your first rodeo! You can also visit the Bureau of Engraving – one of just two places in the U.S. that prints currency. North Texas also has wineries and plenty of outdoor activities.

Bill’s Advice: Dallas is the closest place to Missouri that has In-N-Out fast-food restaurants! While it’s just a personal favorite, it’s worth checking out since most of them are located in southern California.

Travel Time: 8h / 506 miles

11. Madison, Wisconsin

The state capital of Wisconsin is constantly ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S.  Madison is also a fun college town with lots of things to do – though its best to visit in the spring and summer months if you hate cold weather.  My favorite thing to do in Madison is the Dane County Farmer’s Market that wraps around the entire Capitol building. Patrons all walk in one direction to shop for fresh produce and local goods.  Of course, State Street is full of action – all seven blocks between downtown and the University of Wisconsin campus. You can find food (140 restaurants!) unique stores, and plenty of entertainment day or night.

Bill’s Advice:  Tour the beautiful Wisconsin State Capitol, and enjoy some time relaxing near the water.  (You can ice skate in the winter months)  For a quirky stop – a short drive to Middleton will get you to the  National Mustard Museum !  When you cross state lines, pop into the welcome center and pick up a “cheese map” to find every cheese store in the entire state!

Travel Time: 7h 22m / 485 miles

12. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Arkansas isn’t called “the natural state” for nothing. It’s full of beautiful scenery and driving through the Ozarks in route to Hot Springs makes for a terrific road trip experience. Check out one of the historic bath houses and of course, Hot Springs National Park. For nature lovers, Arkansas has great state parks as well, many that have lodges or spots for camping. Petit Jean State Park is along the route if you have the time!

Travel Time: 6h 50m / 410 miles

13. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is probably best known as the place Elvis called home for many years. Graceland and the new Elvis Presley museum complex is definitely worth a visit. But there’s so much more to Memphis! Check out the Stax Museum for some great music history where stars like Al Green and Sam & Dave used to record. Drive by the home where Aretha Franklin used to live as a kid. Take a stroll down Beale Street for live music and bars. And don’t forget all of the great barbecue that Memphis is famous for!

Bill’s Advice: Go inside the gigantic Bass Pro pyramid that’s visible from the highway as you come into town. You can take an elevator all the way to the top for some great views of Memphis and the Mississippi River.

Travel Time: 7h 20m / 450 miles

14. Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha is definitely worth a stop and ideal for a weekend away from home.  Plan your visit to coincide with a concert or local festival to get the most bang for your travel buck!  After eating at one of Omaha’s many steakhouses – a walk is in order around the water at Heartland of America Park – a terrific public green space, with roaring fountains.  The Henry Doorly Zoo is ranked one of the best in the country, and the Durham Museum is a fun family stop.  For a sports fan – consider visiting during the College World Series.

Bill’s Advice:  When you visit, check out a really great Italian cafe that has been around forever – Orsi’s.  It’s more of a bakery but they have pizza that is very good!  Be sure to mention you’re visiting and they’re likely to toss in some free garlic cheese bread! 

Travel Time: 2h 45m / 185 miles

15. Manhattan, Kansas

Manhattan is an under the radar town that’s best known as the home of Kansas State University. However, it’s also celebrated as a gateway to the Flint Hills region. Visitors can check out the Flint Hills Discovery Center and then head out for a hike to see the beautiful tallgrass up close and in-person. Manhattan has a fun college vibe with some great places to eat in Aggieville, and don’t miss Varsity Donuts for breakfast!

Travel Time: 2h / 122 miles

16. Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Camdenton Missouri

We are fortunate to have many wonderful state parks in Missouri and any of them are great for a road trip. Ha Ha Tonka State Park features some great hiking trails and the ruins of a castle! Long story short – a KC businessman began construction on the castle in 1905 but died before it was complete. His son finished building the castle which became a summer home for the family and eventually a hotel. It was destroyed by a fire in the 1940s. The park also features natural bridges, sinkholes, bluffs, and caves.

Bill’s Advice: Another great Missouri state park site is Echo Bluff. Echo Bluff has a beautiful lodge which just recently opened over the last few years as well as state of the art cabins you can rent.

Travel Time: 2h 39m / 160 miles

17. Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville may be best known as the headquarters for Walmart. In fact, you can pop into the Walmart Museum which is housed inside Sam Walton’s first dime store on the downtown square. (It’s actually a really cool museum!) Bentonville is also home to one of the most amazing art museums in the world – Crystal Bridges. If you enjoy bike riding, the area is home to some of the most popular trails in the south.

Travel Time: 3h 13m / 209 miles

18. Fulton, Missouri

Fulton is often overlooked as a destination in Missouri that’s certainly easy to get to right down I-70. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway or even a day trip. Check out the National Churchill Museum, and the shops and restaurants in the historic Brick District. For car lovers – don’t miss the great car collection right off the highway. Auto World Museum has an impressive collection of vintage vehicles. If you like Bed & Breakfasts, you can stay at Loganberry In – one of Missouri’s top B&Bs.

Travel Time: 2h 19m / 150 miles

19. Springfield, Illinois

Springfield is a perfect for a weekend getaway.  Rich in history, it’s best known for its ties to Abraham Lincoln.  You can visit the only home he ever owned and see his final resting place.  Tour the Illinois state Capitol building and take a tour of the Governor’s mansion.  (Don’t make any jokes about how many of them wind up in prison – they don’t think it’s as funny as we do.)  There is a wonderful Frank Lloyd Wright property – the Dana Thomas House in Springfield that is worth touring if you love seeing his work.

Bill’s Advice : The Lincoln Presidential Museum is very cool and you could spend half a day exploring and checking out all of the artifacts.  Springfield is a great place to get up early and spend a Saturday or a place to tack on to another road trip instead of just driving through.

Travel Time: 4h 40m / 310 miles

20. New Harmony, Indiana

New Harmony can be a romantic weekend getaway or an added stop to an eastern road trip.  It’s loaded with  fascinating history , and small enough that you can literally walk around the entire town.  Stop by the visitor center to watch the introductory film for an overview of the town.  There are good restaurants, small shops, and bed and breakfasts if you choose to stay overnight.

Bill’s Advice:  Definitely make the visitor center your first stop and watch the film that explains the history of New Harmony.  It will make your visit so much better when you understand all of the buildings you’ll see and why the town is so unique! 

Travel Time: 5h 40m / 389 miles

Best Road Trips From KC:

3. St. Louis, Missouri 

7. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

9. Missouri’s Genius Highway

16. Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camdenton, MO

Things To See

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BILL ON THE ROAD | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2024

Kansas City, MO Weekend Trip: A 3-day Kansas City Itinerary from a Local!

Kansas City, Missouri is an underappreciated gem in the heart of the U.S. and its unique local flare, walkable city districts, and remarkable affordability make for a perfect long weekend trip! 

Side note:: This post was written by Ashlea who has called KC home for over 8 years. This way, you can ensure you are reading the best Kansas City Weekend Trip itinerary out there. Locals know best!

This post contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.   I only recommend products I truly love 🙂

Table of Contents

How do I get to Kansas City?

The best way to get to Kansas City is to fly into MCI Airport. You are lucky because the newly opened terminal at the Kansas City airport is spectacular and helped MCI be named the best airport in the world.

We are very proud of our airport and feel that it represents KC in the best way with all things KC. You will see beautiful art installations with KC themes such as jazz instruments as we are known for our jazz district, among other sweet details.

Our airport also has a TON of local businesses that have locations in the airport such as Boulevard Brewery, Stockyards Brewery, Messenger Coffee, and even a mini River Market which is our farmer’s market. I know, I know it’s an airport but I’m telling you it is so cool. 

How to get around KC?

During your weekend trip to Kansas City, I highly recommend renting a car to give yourself more freedom and flexibility. 

However, if you do not have a car that is okay too! We have a wonderful streetcar that is free, clean, and very reliable.

The trolley will take you to downtown, River Market, Crossroads Arts District and by 2024 it will also take you to the Plaza, Westport, and Midtown. Anywhere awesome the trolley does not take you can easily be accessed by a short Uber or Lyft ride. 

KC is also very walkable. You can easily walk between downtown and the Crossroads Arts District. You can also walk between River Market and Crossroads Arts District but it is a longer walk. 

Renting a car of course gives you more flexibility and the ease of not having to wait on the trolley or an Uber. All in all, much of the things to do in Kansas City are relatively close by, so whichever mode of transport you choose, you’ll be experiencing the best KC weekend trip activities in pretty short order.

What is the best time to visit Kansas City?

The best time to visit Kansas City, MO is in the summer or fall . The weather is nice during this time, and you’ll find there are so many fun festivals and pop-ups going on then.

If you can swing it, the first full weekend in Kansas City is the best time to visit. Every First Friday of every month, we have First Fridays in the Crossroads and First Fridays in the West Bottoms .

In the summer, we have Boulevardia, a massive beer festival on Father’s Day Weekend hosted by Boulevard Brewery. Boulevardia has live concerts from some pretty marque artists, local shopping by vendors, food trucks, outdoor bar stands, silent karaoke, carnival rides, and so much more!

September is also great for festivals. There is the Westport Art Fair and the Plaza Art Fair. I prefer the Westport Art Fair because it is more laid back, but the Plaza Art Fair is the biggest one for sure. They both have streets blocked off, selling art, local goods, food trucks, and outdoor bars. 

KC is a big sports town. We love our Chiefs and Royals, and autumn is prime sports watching . The city will shut down when the Chiefs are playing. If you drive through KC during a Chiefs game, you will think no one lives here because the whole town will be watching the game! Even for a non-sports fan, it is a good time seeing all the hometown spirit. 

One more key thing to note, unless you’re truly brave when it comes to frigid weather, KC is best avoided in January and February , where temperatures often reach the single digits.

However, while chilly, December is a lovely time to visit because Kansas City is a magical place to be for the holidays as there are festive events and lights everywhere!

Where should I stay in Kansas City, MO?

The best area of town to stay is the Crossroads Arts District. It is the “it” area of town right now with so many hip and trendy coffee shops, bars, breweries, restaurants, and shopping. It is also a very walkable area of town and easy to explore. It is great for people of all ages! 

Downtown is another great option to stay because it is close to so many of the hot spots and popular neighborhoods like Crossroads and the River Market . 

The Plaza is another popular place to stay in KC. It is a popular shopping district with Spanish architecture. 

You will find more budget friendly options in Midtown as well and this is still a great area to stay but is not walking distance from the Crossroads and you will not be able to use the trolley if you stay in Westport, Midtown, or the Plaza. 

My Kansas City Hotel Recommendations:  

• Budget-friendly Option: A great option for free accommodations in KC is to use Trusted Housesitters to watch KC locals’ houses and pets and get free accommodations. We have used Trusted Housesitters before and LOVE it! You do have to pay a yearly membership fee of 129.00 which you will more than makeup when you do your first sit. 
• Mid-range Option: Home2Suites and Indigo Hotel are both great mid range options. They are both located in the Crossroads Arts. They are walking distance to most restaurants, bars, shops, breweries, distilleries, coffee shops, and all the fun in the Crossroads Arts District. They are also located right next to a trolley stop.
• Luxury Option: Crossroads Hotel and Hotel Kansas City are great options for a higher budget. The Crossroads Hotel is located in the Crossroads Arts District and it also has a restaurant, bar, and rooftop bar. The Crossroads has been on national lists for best hotels. It is very artsy and modern luxury hotel. Hotel Kansas City is an historic building that used to be a social club founded in the 1800’s. The building is just gorgeous with such classy vibes. It also has an excellent coffee shop, speakeasy, and restaurant within the hotel. Hotel Kansas City is located in the heart of downtown. 
• Dog-friendly Stay: Home2Suites and Hotel Indigo mentioned above are both pet friendly options if you are wanting to stay in the Crossroads.
• Unique Option: No Vacancy is a trendy artsy guesthouse that offers a selection of well designed rooms and even has a hip colorful rooftop space. This is a popular place for people to go for photoshoots or use for their wedding hotel or getting ready location. It is just so cute! Better yet it is located in the Crossroads Arts District on an adorable street with other local shops. 

Sample 3-Day Kansas City Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 in kansas city: west bottoms .

First, things first- coffee. Head to Cafe Corazon for some great coffee drinks and maybe a breakfast empanada.

Now walk one block to the Streetcar on Main Street (right by Extra Virgin) and ride it South (away from downtown) to the last stop which will drop you off directly in front of my favorite building in KC, Union Station. Plan to spend anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours here. 

Union Station is Kansas City’s classic train station and is just stunning! This is my absolute favorite building in the city. It is over 100 years old and is restored to its original beauty. 

If you have the time, it is the perfect place to walk around and admire its chandeliers, delicate details, marble floors, and imagine all the history that has taken place over the past century. Stand under the clock which was the meeting place for soldiers and their loves after WWII, so many love stories picked up right there.

If you want to learn all about Union Station’s rich history you can even download the app (Living History: Union Station Kansas City) and learn all about Union Stations history which is fascinating. The app allows for you to stand at different points and learn about different aspects of Union Station. 

Union Station also has Science City, a movie theater, and amazing rotating exhibits, restaurants, shops, and so much more to explore. 

Now let’s head to historic West Bottoms. This is the famous district where KC got its nickname “Paris of the Plains” and “The Wettest Block in the World” during prohibition when this area was lined with speakeasies and illegal activity. They say in KC, prohibition never existed due to the stronghold the mob had on the town. 

Nowadays the West Bottoms has a ton of warehouses full of vintage and antique shopping, breweries, distilleries, wineries, restaurants, and bars. Most are open every weekend, but First Fridays is the best time to go. The West Bottoms come alive with food trucks, and all shops are open at this time. It’s bustling and such a fun time to explore West Bottoms. 

Imagine huge brick warehouses and gravel streets in some areas with a ton of great local places to try out. Some of my favorite antique shops are Bella Patina , Good Juju . Some of my favorite local trendy shops are Fetch and West Bottoms Plant Co.   (has way more than just plants, local vendors).

If you are loving West Bottoms, stay for some drinks and great food! Fountain City Winery is a new winery that is just the best wine and sangria and has bocce ball, outdoor seating and more. 

Then, head to The Campground for dinner. You will find a trendy camping themed restaurant with an ever-changing menu based on season and local produce. They have exceptional food, and a huge outdoor patio and fire pits, but the craft cocktails are the main attraction. If you come when it is nice out, there will be a great outdoor bar where you can order snacks and drinks and enjoy the weather. 

TIP : If you visit The Campground during the holidays , they have an outdoor Christmas Market with local vendors, mulled wine and other holiday cocktails, and warm food to enjoy as you do some holiday shopping. 

Some other recommendations for this side of town for drinks after you eat are The Ship , a divey, nautical themed bar that is a bit rustic and a blast. It’s a funky place, usually with live music or a DJ on the weekends, and one of my all time favs! Stockyards Brewery is another great pick and located across the street from The Campground. 

You may also like : One Weekend in St. Louis, MO

Day 2 in Kansas City, MO: River Market & Crossroads Arts District

Kansas city is home to some amazing coffee shops! Start day 2 by heading to Messenger , a local favorite café for coffee and breakfast.

They are located in a beautiful historic building with a rooftop that is perfect for enjoying your coffee with a view along with great breakfast and lunch options.

Messenger has a wonderful local bakery Ibis housed in the same building. They have exquisite coffee flights, baked goods, great breakfast choices that are truly amazing. Some of my favorites are the baguette sandwiches and the Ibis baked goods. 

Meander over to Main Street and catch the free Streetcar and ride that all the way to River Market to explore Kansas City’s historic farmers market- The City Marke t.

This is a great place to get great local produce but also have a little mini food tour and try some great local cuisine! It is always bustling with people and great local vendors and is the perfect way to spend a weekend day.

Be sure to check out City Market Coffee , Taste of Brazil , Local Pig , and Habashi House and KC Soda Tour on your food tour! 

Head back to the Crossroads Arts District for great cocktails and beer! 

Stop by Mean Mule Distilling’s tasting room for the best agave cocktail of your life. This cozy cocktail lounge is my favorite place to get an adult beverage in the whole city. If you love agave-forward spirits, you will LOVE Mean Mule.

They have a great variety of craft cocktails all set in a southwestern decorated venue.

Another great stop for cocktails is Afterward Tavern and Shelves , a bookstore and bar that makes similarly awesome cocktails and provides a warm but bustling ambiance.

One can’t leave the Crossroads without exploring the many local micro breweries in the district. All the breweries are within a close distance, and they are all superb! Some of my favorites are Double Shift , Red Sash , Nimble , and Casual Animal .

Day 3 in Kansas City, MO: Plaza and Midtown 

Start off the morning with grub at a funky hometown favorite restaurant, Succotash , for breakfast with tons of great fresh options from cold pressed juice, breakfast sandwiches, and so much more. The vibes are retro yet very unique and eclectic. 

Go to the famous Country Club Plaza, where you will see Spanish style buildings inspired by Sevilla and exquisite fountains. Locals never say the “Country Club” part and just call “the Plaza”

KC is known as the “City of Fountains” because we have more fountains than any other city in the world outside of Rome with over 200 fountains, and most of these will be found on the Plaza.

The Plaza is a bustling blocks-long strip of shops, boutiques, chain clothing stores, restaurants, bars and cafes. It’s a great place to do some shopping, eating, and drinking.

Some of my favorite local shops are Made in KC – a collective of a ton of locally-made products/businesses, EB and Co. for accessories and jewelry, and Charlie Hustle – world’s softest shirts & a local favorite. 

The Plaza is such a fun place to stroll around and enjoy the colorful Spanish architecture, fountains, and colorful streets. If you come from American Thanksgiving to January, you will see the most festive holiday lights when the plaza lights up at night.

Head to Westport for dinner and drinks at Westport Cafe . It is just the most charming and cozy Parisian style bistro.

Be sure to make a reservation on the weekend as it is a popular restaurant and a little on the small side. Westport is a highly trafficked place to go out on the town and is bustling on the weekends. This is the oldest area of KC and has lots of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. 

After you finish dinner, pop around the corner to Ca Va , a delightfully intimate champagne bar for drinks, and if you still have room, some delicious cheese plates. We recommend sitting out on the most romantic patio and enjoying some bubble or champagne cocktails. You will really feel like you’ve ended your weekend in France!

Other things to do in Kansas City:

• Iron District (North KC) – Iron District is a blast! It is about 10 minutes from the downtown area. Iron District is made of shipping containers with restaurants, bars, and shops inside. There is a big patio space to eat and drink in the middle and the containers are on the edge. They have Indian Food, vegan food, bakery, Tiki Bar, tacos, smash burgers, craft beer, plant shops, local boutiques, and so much more. This is the perfect place to go on a nice day! It will be shut down during the winter so check hours and opening dates. 
• Kauffman Memorial Garden (Plaza) – Although the Kauffman Memorial Garden is small it is one of the prettiest gardens to visit. It is well groomed with lots of flowers and a fountain in the middle and tables and benches to enjoy the peaceful serenity of the garden. 
• Rose Garden- Loose Park (Near Plaza) – Loose Park is not too far from the plaza- it is a huge sprawling park. You will find trails, lush grass fields that seem to go for miles, Rose garden , ponds, bridges, and more. It is such a great area to enjoy the outdoors, have a picnic, or just lay in the grass and dream. The Rose Garden is my favorite stop in Loose Park because it has such beautiful roses to smell and admire. This is where we got engaged too, it is a very romantic spot! 
• W. 39th Street – 39th Street is another great area of town to explore. It is a very funky, gritty area of town to wander. They have great eats and shops. There are some vintage shops, dumpling restaurants, book stores, and a ton of cute places to explore. It is close to the Westport area of town.

Where (else) to Eat in the City:

• Jack Stack (Crossroads) – The BEST BBQ in KC! This is my number one pick for BBQ and the main location is located in the Crossroads area but they have many locations.
• Lulus (Crossroads) – local Thai restaurant with colorful and vibrant decor and plants and phenomenal Thai food. 
• Extra Virgin (Crossroads) – Extra Virgin has great tapas, and although it is a bit on the pricey side, it is so worth it. It has a huge covered patio to watch the hustle and bustle of life go by. It is located in the Crossroads and on a streetcar stop. 
• Mannys (Crossroads) – the best Mexican food in town. 
• BLVD Tavern (Crossroads) – Nestled in a brick building on Southwest Boulevard, the BLVD Tavern has great sangria, cocktails, local beer, sandwiches, pastas, the best charcuterie board in town, great pommes frites, and so much more! The inside is so cozy and perfect for a chilly day and the small patio is great for a nice day out. They also have great happy hour deals!
• Town Topic (Crossroads) – No visit to KC without a greasy burger and shake from Town Topic. This tiny diner has been open for over 100 years, and it is legitimately the best burger in the world. They serve smash burgers, and it’s an iconic food landmark in Kansas City. My grandfather came here for late night eats in the 60’s. It is a KC institution. This is the best late night eats after a night on the town. You can wait in line which is an experience in itself, or, if you can’t wait, call ahead and pick up at the window. 
• La Bodega (Southwest Boulevard) – La Bodega is a Spanish tapas place located on SW BLVD, which is near the Crossroads. They have great fire pits and a huge patio to enjoy some amazing tapas. 
• Brown and Loe (River Market) – go here for wonderful brunch, lunch, and dinner options located right next to the farmer’s market in the River Market District with a great patio. 
• Joes (Westwood) – Outstanding BBQ located in an old 1950’s gas station, casual dining 
• Novel (Crossroads)- great pasta and dinner options, upscale dining. 
• Rockhill (Crossroads) –  Rockhill is an upscale dining with the best cheese filled tots you will ever have! 

Other Tips to know before visiting Kansas City, MO:

• KC Locals are so very friendly and are happy to help you whenever! We also love bragging about our city and giving recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask! 
• KC is a bit of a coffee mecca so be sure to check out our coffee shops. Check out our guide to the Best Coffee Shops in KC
• Do not walk home from Westport or Midtown at night. Take ubers. Avoid areas East of Troost and Prospect area. 
• KC is set up around Main and Broadway and taking any of these two streets will take you to almost every neighborhood. Downtown, Crossroads, and Rivermarket are all close to one another. Plaza and Westport are close to one another. You can drive from Downtown to Plaza and hit every one of those areas mentioned. It is super easy to navigate. 

Kansas City Weekend Trip Map

One Weekend in Kansas City isn’t Enough

As you can see, there’s SO much to do in the Kansas City, MO that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Kansas City itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Kansas City.

What else would you add to this Kansas City weekend trip?

About the Author! 

Hello! I’m Ashlea Bogner, co-founder of Seek Out Travel blog and a KC Local. I have lived in KC for over 8 years, exploring all the areas very extensively and just adore KC. There is so much to do and see and a truly phenomenal food and drink scene. We know how to make great craft cocktails, beer, and great cuisine (we are so much more than BBQ!). I hope you have the best adventure here in KC! 

Follow us on Instagram , Pinterest , and check out our blog for more travel guides, tips, and tricks on budget & ethical travel. 

Hey hey! I'm Jordan, a full-time elementary teacher with a side of freelance writing/travel blogging. As much as I LOVE to travel, I also enjoy routine, being home, and sleeping in my own cozy bed. Anyone else?  Enter...weekend getaways! I'm hoping you find this to be your one-stop-shop to plan your next USA weekend trip (with or without your pup).

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Short Road Trips from Kansas City

There are so many things to love about Kansas City — flowing fountains, the world’s best barbeque, and our Kansas City Chiefs! Beyond that, one of the many reasons I’ve enjoyed making this Heartland city my home for the past 20 years is its location. Whether you drive or fly, it’s easy to head north, south, east, or west when you want a change of scenery from this centrally-located city.

Whether it’s a solo adventure, weekend getaway for two, or family vacation — i f you’re searching for fun within a five-hour drive of Kansas City, these are some of my favorite destinations to eat, play, and stay in the Midwest.

Sage Advice:  Although each of these locations is a great stand-alone destination, each section is listed in the order I recommend if you want to experience them all. 

What's in This Guide

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Short Road Trip Destinations North of Kansas City

Pella, Iowa

When you travel about 215 miles north to the Iowa town of Pella, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a quaint Dutch town without leaving the Midwest.

What to Do — Explore the historic downtown that includes the tallest working grain windmill in the US, admire the region’s natural beauty by hiking or biking the Volksweg Trail , and then wind your way up the tallest observation tower in the Midwest for amazing views. 

Where to Eat — Dutch Fix (for classic Dutch street foods) and Ulrich’s Meat Market (for Pella bologna and locally-made Gouda cheese ), Be sure to try Dutch letters and other delicious pastries at Jaarsma Bakery or Vander Ploeg Bakery . Don’t know the difference between   bitterballen   and   oliebollen ?   Read this   before visiting Pella!

Where to Stay — Royal Amsterdam Hotel (for a traditional accommodation), The Dwelling Place (bed and breakfast), or these top-rated vacation rentals in Pella .

Quaint Midwest Towns . 13 adorable places you’ll want to visit!

Scavenger Hunts . Why they’re the ultimate way to explore.

Best Riverwalks in the US . West of the Mississippi.

Des Moines, Iowa

Located about three hours north of Kansas City,  Iowa’s capital city is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the Midwest. 

What to Do —  Tour the gold-domed capitol building , enjoy an interactive scavenger hunt , stroll through the botanical garden , wander through Pappajohn Sculpture Park , then hike or bike the Des Moines River Trail .  If you plan to road trip to Des Moines in August, don’t miss the Iowa State Fair where you can see the “butter cow,” a bovine sculpture made from butter, and eat a wide range of foods (many deep-fried) on a stick.

Where to Eat — La Mie Bakery (for breakfast or lunch), Bubba (for brunch), Flying Mango (for a bbq alternative to what we know and love here in Kansas City), and Skip’s (lunch or dinner).

Where to Stay — Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown (for a traditional accommodation) or these top-rated vacation rentals in Des Moines .

Related Article: My Favorite (Mostly Healthy) Road Trip Snacks

Located in central Iowa, Ames is about 45 minutes north of Des Moines. A college town of about 66,000 residents, it’s 230 miles north of Kansas City. 

What to Do — Explore the Iowa State University campus, stroll through the Reiman Gardens , hike the scenic trails of Ledges State Park , cool down at the Furman Aquatic Center , and then  sip some suds at the Alluvial Brewing Company .  

Where to Eat — The Cafe (for any meal, from breakfast and brunch to lunch and dinner) and Dublin Bay Irish Pub (for a pint or quart).

Where to Stay — Hampton Inn & Suites (for a traditional accommodation), Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast (about 20 minutes east of Ames), or these top-rated vacation rentals in Ames .

Omaha, Nebraska

The biggest city in the Cornhusker State, Omaha is about three hours north of Kansas City. 

What to Do — Shop the Old Market , walk across the river to Iowa on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge , and visit the world-renowned  Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . And beginning July 1st, visitors can enjoy the first phase of a $325 million park project along The RiverFront  connecting Downtown Omaha to the Missouri River. The lush green mall includes a  performance pavilion, dog park, custom playground, sculpture garden, and interactive water features.

Sage Advice: Fill your Omaha bucket list to the rim with 100 Things to Do in Omaha Before You Die .

Where to Eat — Lisa’s Radial Cafe (for breakfast), Block 16 (for farm-to-table street food), Spezia (for lunch or dinner), and Blue Sushi Sake Grill (go for their happy hour). Be sure to save room for ice cream at Ted & Wally’s and a drink at Catalyst , Omaha’s largest outdoor cocktail bar. 

Sage Advice: You’ll never run out of delicious places to eat in Omaha with these unique eats and eateries .

Where to Stay — The Farnam or Kimpton Cottonwood (for traditional accommodations) or these top-rated vacation rentals in Omaha .

Fun Fact: Did you know that the University of Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium becomes the third largest “city” in Nebraska each home football game? Only the actual cities of Omaha and Lincoln will have a larger concentration of people those Saturdays in the fall! 

Omaha, Nebraska . The best things to see and do.

Unique Eats and Eateries of Omaha . Hidden gems for food lovers.

The Best College Towns in the Midwest . From football to food, here’s what you won’t want to miss when you visit!

Short Road Trip Destinations East of Kansas City

St. Louis, Missouri

About four hours east of Kansas City, St. Louis is second only to the nation’s capital when it comes to free attractions . So as gas prices soar, you can stretch your vacation budget to the max by exploring St. Louis.

What to Do — Ascend the Gateway to the West’s iconic  stainless steel  arch for the best view in town. Then surround yourself with beautiful blooms at the nation’s oldest continuously operated botanical garden , m eet a Clydesdale at Grant’s Farm , and take an interactive scavenger hunt through Forest Park . You will also want to sample beer at the  Anheuser-Busch Brewery  and check out these unique things to do in St. Louis . And if you visit the Gateway City during baseball season, enjoy a game  at Busch Stadium. (It’s okay if you wear a  Royals t-shirt !)

Sage Advice: Learn about the people, places, and history between St. Louis and the next step, Springfield, IL, with this self-guided driving tour .

Where to Eat — Park Avenue Coffee (breakfast and a slice of gooey butter cake), Nathaniel Reid Bakery  (for one of the best breakfast sandwiches in America), Anthonino’s Taverna and Charlie Gitto’s (for authentic Italian cuisine), Imo’s (for St. Louis style pizza), and Salt + Smoke (for St. Louis style barbeque). Be sure to save room for dessert: Clementine’s (for a scoop of “naughty” or “nice” ice cream, Ted Drewes (for an original custard concrete), and Poptimism (for unique popsicles at City Foundry , St. Louis’s new food hall).

Where to Stay —  Drury Plaza Hotel  (n ear the Gateway Arch), Hilton St. Louis  (near the ballpark), and  Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton (for a conveniently-located suburban accommodation). You’re also sure to enjoy one of these top-rated vacation rentals in St. Louis .

Everyday Postcard from Springfield, Illinois . Tips on what to do and see.

St. Louis, Missouri . Five reasons it’s first rate for second city travel.

St. Louis Food . Delicious dishes to try in the Gateway City.

Springfield, Illinois

While there are 30 cities named Springfield in the United States, there’s only one in the  Land of Lincoln. Illinois’s capital city is about five hours east of Kansas City.

What to Do —  Follow in the footsteps of Honest Abe by visiting his former home , presidential library , and final resting place.  Then wind your way through a labyrinth of impressive architecture at Frank Lloyd Wright’s “blank check” projects known as the Dana-Thomas House and enjoy an interactive scavenger hunt around town.

Where to Eat — Cafe Maxo or Charlie Parker’s Diner (for breakfast or lunch) and Mariah’s Steakhouse & Pasta or Indigo Restaurant (for dinner).

Where to Stay — SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springfield Southwest (for traditional accommodations), Inn at 835 (bed and breakfast/boutique hotel), or these top-rated vacation rentals in Springfield .

Short Road Trip Destinations South of Kansas City

Bentonville, Arkansas

Although it’s known as the headquarters of the world’s biggest corporation, Bentonville is full of small town charm just three hours south of Kansas City.

What to Do — Admire  the art at the  Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , then wind your way along a treed path to the Bachman-Wilson House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Browse the shops in the 16-block historic Third Street District, celebrate the business genius of Sam Walton at the Walmart Museum , go for a long ride in the Mountain Biking Capital of the World, and visit a magnificent Italianate estate .

Where to Eat — Onyx Coffee Lab (for coffee and a quick breakfast), The Hive (for a boozy fried chicken and bubbles brunch),  Eleven (for a bite at Crystal Bridges), and The Preacher’s Son (for dinner).

Fun Fact: In 2022, three Bentonville chefs were James Beard Award Semifinalists. Pretty impressive for a town of around 60,000 people!

Where to Stay — 21C Museum Hotel Bentonville   (be sure to ask about their Bike & Brews package), The Victoria (bed and breakfast), or these top-rated vacation rentals in Bentonville .  

Related Article: 8 Reasons 21c Bentonville is the Best Hotel in Bentonville, AR

Help Kids Appreciate Art Museums . Five proven tips!

Inspiring Reasons to Visit the Walmart Museum . (Even if you are a Target girl)

Bentonville, Arkansas . How to spend a perfect weekend in this  quaint Ozark mountain town.

Pawhuska, Oklahoma

Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond played a big role in making this small Oklahoma town about four hours south of Kansas City a travel destination. 

What to Do — Spend a d elicious day in Pioneer Woman country by touring The Lodge and eating and shopping at The Merc . Then learn more about the Osage people — including Ben  Johnson , an Academy Award-winning actor, world-champion rodeo cowboy, and legendary stunt double — walk across the swinging bridge, and enjoy the beauty of one of the few remaining tallgrass prairies in the world.

Where to Eat — Pioneer Woman Mercantile (for coffee, breakfast, lunch, or dinner) and P-Town Pizza (for lunch or dinner).

Where to Stay — Frontier Hotel Pawhuska (for a traditional accommodation), The Grandview Inn (bed and breakfast), Postcard Place , or another top-rated vacation rental in Pawhuska .

Pawhuska, OK . 6 perfect ways to spend time with the Pioneer Woman.

Tulsa Murals . Impressive street art that tells T-Town’s story.

Pioneer Woman Mercantile . What to expect when you visit.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

About four hours south of Kansas City,  Tulsa is Oklahoma’s second largest city.  

What to Do — Enjoy the great outdoors at  the Gathering Space , take a selfie with the Golden Driller, admire the art inside a sprawling 72-room Italian Renaissance villa , stand at the center of the universe , watch butterflies float through the Tulsa Botanic Garden , and get your kicks on Route 66 .

Where to Eat — Antoinette Baking Co (for coffee and breakfast), Wanda J’s (for soul food in the historic Greenwood District), The Tavern (for a fresh take on pub classics), and Mother Road Market (for a smorgasbord of options and a round of Route 66-themed miniature golf at Tulsa’s food hall).  

Where to Stay — Hotel Indigo (for a traditional accommodation with a fantastic rooftop bar), Cedar Rock Inn (bed and breakfast), or one of these  top-rated vacation rentals in Tulsa .

Tulsa Outdoor Activities . Best things to do outside in T-Town.

Oklahoma City Memorial . What to know BEFORE you go.

Things to Do in Tulsa . What to see, do, and eat in T-Town.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The Sooner State’s largest city is about five hours southwest of Kansas City. 

What do Do — Explore the  urban riverwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and lots of outdoor space. Pay a somber visit to the Oklahoma City Memorial and Museum, tour the capitol grounds , immerse yourself in Western culture , explore Oklahoma with an interactive scavenger hunt , and watch the sunset behind the lighthouse at Hefner Lake .

Where to Eat — Kitchen No. 324 (breakfast or brunch), Nic’s Place  (breakfast or lunch), Metro Wine Bar and Bistro (lunch or dinner), and Redrock Canyon Grill (for dinner, dessert, or drinks as the sun sets at Hefner Lake). 

Where to Stay — Hilton Garden Inn in Bricktown (for a traditional accommodation), Grandison Inn at Maney Park (bed and breakfast), or these  top-rated vacation rentals in Oklahoma City .

Wichita, Kansas

Located about 200 miles southwest of Kansas City, the birthplace of Pizza Hut and Air Capital of the World is the biggest city in the Sunflower State. 

What to Do — See historic planes, tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House , take a long stroll at the Great Plains Nature Center , explore the  Wichita botanical gardens , monkey around at  the  Sedgwick County Zoo ,  visit the original Pizza Hut ,  and watch the fire pits around the Keeper of the Plains light up as the sun goes down.

Where to Eat — Doo-Dah Diner (for breakfast), HomeGrown (for breakfast or brunch), Old Mill Tasty Shop (for lunch and a milkshake or malt), and Prost (for authentic German cuisine ).

Where to Stay — Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview or Hotel at Old Town (for traditional accommodations) or one of these top-rated  vacation rentals in Wichita .

Kansas City to Wichita . A delightful Prairie road trip.

Art in Abilen e. Kansas murals in America’s heartland.

Kansas Wildflowers . A guide to what’s blooming by season.

Short Road Trip Destinations West of Kansas City

Abilene, Kansas

From amazing antiques to all things Eisenhower, Abilene is the original cow town of the Wild West. This great weekend getaway is about three hours west of Kansas City and was recently crowned the Best Small Town to Visit in the US by TravelAwaits.

What to Do — Marvel at the magnificent Seelye Mansion , admire the public art , find treasures in amazing antique shops , be greeted by gorgeous greyhounds , and satisfy your sweet tooth .

Where to Eat — Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro  (for coffee, breakfast, or lunch), Ike’s Place (for lunch or dinner), and Donut Palace (for a sweet treat).

Where to Stay — Holiday Inn Express and Suites (for a traditional accommodation), Abilene’s Victorian Inn (bed and breakfast), or these top-rated vacation rentals in Dickinson County .

Salina, Kansas

Located in the Smoky Hills region, Salina is less than three hours from Kansas City.

What to Do — Visit the  Rolling Hills Zoo , cool off at the Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park , and explore the outdoor  public art exhibit  that features new sculptures each spring. Travel 30 minutes south of town to the Coronado Heights Castle to enjoy a picnic with impressive views.

Where to Eat — Russell’s Restaurant (for breakfast and classic nearly all day diner dishes),  Hickory Hut Barbecue  (lunch or dinner) or Martinelli’s Little Italy  (lunch or dinner).

Where to Stay — Homewood Suites by Hilton or  (for a traditional accommodation) or these top-rated vacation rentals in Salina .

Hays, Kansas

About five hours directly west of Kansas City along I-70, Hays is home to Fort Hays State University and a historic site that dates back to the Sunflower State’s frontier days.

What to Do  — Stay cool at the Hays Aquatic Park , discover the town’s frontier days at Fort Hays , and learn more about Earth’s natural history at the Sternberg Museum , 

Where to Eat  — Breathe Coffee House  (for coffee), The Paisley Pear (for lunch, happy hour, or dinner), and Gella’s Diner  (for craft beer, lunch, or dinner). Be sure to try a bierock, a regional specialty with seasoned beef, cabbage, and sauerkraut baked inside of a bread dough square.

Where to Stay  — TownePlace Suites by Marriott (for a traditional accommodation) or these top-rated vacation rentals in Hays .

Ready to Go? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• Find low fares with  airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner
• Book your plane ticket with   Expedia or Kayak
• Or take the scenic route on an epic road trip in a rental car or an RV from Outdoorsy
• From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or Vrbo  
• Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from eBags
• Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with CityPASS , Tiqets , and Viator
• Don’t leave home without travel insurance from AXA
• Discover the sights, history, and culture of your destination with an interactive scavenger hunt
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners. Happy wandering!

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• Destinations

17 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways from Kansas City, Missouri

The inn at hermannhof, hermann, cedar crest lodge, pleasanton, ks, ophelia’s restaurant & inn, hermann hill.

• Complete List & Map

237 E. 1st Street, Hermann, Missouri 65041, 573 486 5199, Map

25939 E. 1000th Rd, Pleasanton, KS 66075, 913 352 6533, Map

201 N. Main, Independence, MO , 816-461-4525 , Map

Discover beautiful parks nearby .

Clover Cliff Ranch Bed and Breakfast, Elmdale, KS

826A Highway 50, Elmdale, KS 66850, 620 343 0621, Map

Beaver Lake Cottages

More Day Trips in Missouri

The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks

1 Opportunity Avenue, Point Lookout, MO, 417-239-1900 , Map

Amber House Bed and Breakfast

More ideas: Best Missouri Beaches

Lehmann House Bed and Breakfast

If you are interested in history, watch this fascinating video about the origins of The Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

Depot Inn and Suites, La Plata, MO

Depot Inn and Suites , 1245 N. Brown Street, La Plata, MO 63549, 660 332 4669

Angel at Rose Hall

Angel at Rose Hall , 46 Hillside Avenue, Eureka Springs, AR, 479-253-5405

Grand Central Hotel

Grand Central Hotel , 215 Broadway, Cottonwood Falls, KS, 620-273-6763

The Inn at Rose Hall

More ideas: Best Missouri State Parks

Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club and Spa, Camdenton, MO

Located at Lake of the Ozarks in the heart of Missouri, Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club and Spa has everything you need for a great weekend getaway. Active couples will love being surrounded by more than 700 acres of beautiful landscape, a premier golf club and a lake for boating and other water sports. In winter you can lace up your skates and enjoy the ice skating rink. You can choose a comfortable Lodge room overlooking the golf course or opt for more space and privacy in one of the Golf Villas or Rental Cottages. On-site amenities include indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, a fitness center, golf course and a Marina. 678 Old Kinderhook Dr, Camdenton, MO 65020, 573 317 3500, Map

Camden on the Lake Resort, Spa, & Yacht Club

More ideas: Family-Friendly Missouri

The Elms Hotel and Spa, Excelsior Springs, MO

More ideas: Hotels & Resorts in Missouri

The Tiger Hotel, Columbia

The Tiger Hotel , 23 S. 8th Street, Columbia, MO 65201, 573 875 8888

• 1. The Inn at Hermannhof, Hermann
• 2. Cedar Crest Lodge, Pleasanton, KS
• 3. Ophelia’s Restaurant & Inn
• 4. Hermann Hill
• 5. Clover Cliff Ranch Bed and Breakfast, Elmdale, KS
• 6. Beaver Lake Cottages
• 7. The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
• 8. Amber House Bed and Breakfast
• 9. Lehmann House Bed and Breakfast
• 10. Depot Inn and Suites, La Plata, MO
• 11. Angel at Rose Hall
• 12. Grand Central Hotel
• 13. The Inn at Rose Hall
• 14. Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club and Spa, Camdenton, MO
• 15. Camden on the Lake Resort, Spa, & Yacht Club
• 16. The Elms Hotel and Spa, Excelsior Springs, MO
• 17. The Tiger Hotel, Columbia

Last Updated By VI on April 23, 2024 in Missouri Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

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A Weekend Getaway to Kansas City

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The vibrant metropolis of Kansas City offers limitless activities for weekend travelers. Explore “The New Midwest” by visiting nationally-renowned attractions and popular jazz clubs and sampling the world’s finest “Q.”

A Little History View in Google Maps

A. national wwi museum and memorial.

Touted as one of the most comprehensive collections of WWI artifacts in the world, this world-class museum can easily capture your imagination for several hours. After you’ve read about the Great War and viewed the exhibits, take a ride to the top of Liberty Memorial (for a nominal fee) to see a panoramic view of the city.

B. Arabia Steamboat Museum

More than 200 tons of cargo were lost when the Arabia sank in the Missouri River in 1856. Later discovered by modern-day treasure hunters, the vast number of items were perfectly preserved by the area's clay soil. Today, you can view the world’s largest collection of pre-Civil War objects at the museum where new inventory is put on display as it’s preserved. And stay tuned for their newest find: steamboat Malta is currently being evacuated.

C. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

This one-of-a-kind museum honors the legacy of the players who formed the Negro Leagues in 1920 after the segregation of baseball. Learn about some of the greatest athletes to ever take the field, watch their triumphs via vintage film and stroll among their jerseys in the Hall of Fame Lockers. Admire life-sized bronze statues of the league’s greats positioned on a mock baseball diamond.

D. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Nelson-Atkins showcases more than 40,000 works of art from all regions of the world in both indoor and outdoor installations. Artwork from masters like Monet, Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Degas can be seen alongside American favorites Thomas Hart Benton and George Caleb Bingham. 

Amuse the Kids View in Google Maps

A. crown center complex.

Located in the heart of Kansas City, this entertainment district has it all. Make your way to kid-friendly attractions like Kaleidoscope, SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center and the Hallmark Vistors Center. Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant and SPIN! Pizza are popular dining establishments. Catch a meal before enjoying a show at one of the district’s theaters.

B. Union Station Kansas City

Learn the science behind, well, science, at Science City. Hands-on exhibits allow kids to immerse themselves in educational labs. When you’re done with all things earthly, explore the stars by catching a show at the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium. Casual dining is available on-site at Harvey’s, while finer fare can be found at Pierpont’s. Downstairs you’ll find a world-class traveling exhibit (see website for current display).

C. Kansas City Zoo

Spanning 202 acres, the zoo offers fun for the whole family. Arrive early in the morning when the animals are the most active. Get a closer look at the wildlife while riding high above the plains on the African Sky Safari. Daily activities include Zookeeper Chats, Animal Shows and Stingray Feedings.

D. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

See the world's largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation's largest collections of antique toys. This whimsical museum will delight children and adults alike with its impressive exhibits of well-preserved historic toys and fine-scale miniatures.

Quench Your Thirst View in Google Maps

A. j. rieger & co..

The legacy of J. Rieger & Co. – founded in 1887 – was almost lost following the devastation caused by Prohibition. Fast-forward three-generations, and the Rieger family is once again serving their Kansas City whiskey. Browse their historical exhibit before departing on a one-hour distillery tour, followed by tasting of their four core products. Three on-site bars, The Monogram Lounge, Electric Park Garden Bar and The Hey! Hey! Club, will keep you entertained into the night.

B. The Roasterie Factory

Liquid nirvana. Better known as coffee. Learn about the process of harvesting and air-roasting coffee beans on a factory tour followed by a sampling of The Roasterie’s amazing products.

C. Boulevard Brewing Company

Musically inclined view in google maps, a. green lady lounge – kansas city jazz, b. the blue room at the american jazz museum.

Located inside the American Jazz Museum, The Blue Room features local, national and international talent. Guests find themselves surrounded by star-studded memorabilia as performers honor the greats and showcase their own music. Closed Tuesday, Wednesday and Sundays.

C. The Phoenix Jazz Club

Music may carry into the night, but it should also be celebrated during the day. The Phoenix does just that. Catch a jazz brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. to savor great food with a side of live music.

Shoppers Delight View in Google Maps

A. country club plaza shopping & dining district.

Quick history lesson: Country Club Plaza was the nation’s first suburban shopping district, having been built in 1922. A homage to beautiful art, this urban cultural district is like no other. Take in the romantic Spanish architecture as you stroll among retail shops and countless fountains. Be sure to check out the locally made goods at the Made in KC Marketplace. For dining, try local favorites Gram & Dun, Chuy’s or Rye.

B. Zona Rosa Shopping District

Whether you’re shopping for apparel, dining on international cuisine, pampering yourself at a spa or laughing out-loud at the Kansas City Improv Comedy Club and Dinner Theatre, this mixed-use outdoor entertainment complex has something for everyone. 

C. River Market Antique Mall

Browse more than 120 quality dealer booths at this 30,000-square-foot antique mall. It’s easy to find parking, simply look for the 60-foot by 120-foot mural of Lewis and Clark decorating their exterior wall. After you’ve purchased your treasures, try one of the restaurants in nearby City Market or dessert at Betty Rae’s Ice Cream.

Smoking Hot View in Google Maps

A. jack stack barbecue – freight house.

Hickory-smoked meats are only an order away when dining at Jack Stack. With three locations in Kansas City, it’s easy to find one near you. Try “Jack’s Best,” their signature barbecue featuring prime rib, baby back ribs and burnt ends.  

B. Q39 Barbecue

Chef Rob Magee perfected his barbecue on the competitive circuit before opening Q39. Today, Executive Chef Philip Thompson maintains his standard of excellence in each mouthwatering dish. Try one of the specialty sandwiches like the Triple Threat and Mr. Burns.

C. Char Bar Smoked Meats & Amusements

Come for the food, stay for the games. In addition to a bevy of meats, Char Bar also has vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Once you’ve had your fill, try your hand at a number of lawn games decorating their 10,000-square-foot beer garden.

This is just the sampler. To discover more unforgettable barbecue eats, download Visit KC’s KC BBQ Experience app.

Maps Over Coffee

11 Best Road Trips From Kansas City (Day Trips + Weekend Trips)

If you’re looking for the best road trips from Kansas City , you’ve come to the right place .

Whether you call Kansas City home or are visiting this midwest American city for any length of time, having handy a few places to go for a road trip helps make the work week a bit more bearable.

As avid road trippers and Kansas City natives ourselves, we couldn’t help but compile this list of the best places to go for a vacation, getaway, or simply a day trip from Kansas City.

So if you’re eager to see what’s around the Heart of America, stick with us as we take you through this exciting list!

Best Road Trips from Kansas City

If you’re itching for a getaway, be it for the day, the weekend, or for as long as there’s fuel in your tank and money in your wallet, then this list of Kansas City road trips is for you.

We’ll start with the best Kansas City day trips, then move on to the best weekend trips, followed by the best 8 hour road trips, and finally finish with our pick of the best cross-country road trip from Kansas City.

The Best Day Trips From Kansas City

Some of the best road trips from Kansas City aren’t far away and can actually be done as day trips. Here’s a look at our recommendations for what to do near Kansas City for a mini road trip.

1. Lawrence, Kansas

Distance from Kansas City: 40 minutes

Most people would recognize Lawrence, KS as the home of the Jayhawks. Or for the eponymous song by Josh Ritter. But this little college town will surprise you in many ways.

With a historic downtown perfect for walking, boutique shopping, or enjoying a craft beer, a drive to Lawrence is the perfect day trip from Kansas City, at only 40 miles away.

On your way from Kansas City, stop by Davenport Winery between Lawrence and Eudora. Get a bottle of Charlotte’s Red or Mandolin if they are available.

Clinton Lake is also just outside of town, and a great place for a little rest and relaxation, fishing, or camping.

2. Weston, Missouri

Another great day trip from Kansas City, this time into the state of Missouri, is the little town of Weston. Believe it or not, Weston has lots of amazing orchards surrounding the town. Spend a fall day picking apples and going to the annual AppleFest.

And if you like to discover good restaurants no one (outside of Weston) has heard of, Tine and Cellar is truly an underground stop. (No, literally it is built in an old cellar several stories underground!) They have amazing food and are naturally cool during the hot midwest summers – a luxury not to be overlooked!

If you decide to stay overnight in Weston, try camping at Weston Bend State Park in the summer. In the winter, bring your skis or snowboard to Snowcreek Ski Resort . It probably won’t host the Olympics anytime soon, but it’s pretty good for flatlanders.

The Best Weekend Road Trips From Kansas City

If you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, hit the road for a weekend trip from Kansas City. These recommendations are relatively short road trips from Kansas City, but are ones that are a bit more comfortably done over the course of two or three days.

3. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Distance from Kansas City: 2.5 Hours

Only a couple of hours away from Kansas City, Lake of the Ozarks is a long, winding reservoir situated within two state parks: Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park .

📍Lake of the Ozarks State Park – Kaiser, MO

Lake of the Ozarks is the largest and one of the most visited State Parks in Missouri. Over 2.5 million visitors come for camping, swimming, and water sports each year.

Holiday weekends can be especially crowded with boaters coming from hundreds of miles around to gather into one of the largest floating parties in the country.

Although a popular destination, there are some arms and coves around the reservoir that you can have all to yourself for a quiet camping or fishing spot.

📍Ha Ha Tonka State Park – Camdenton, MO

The other State Park on the shore of the Lake of the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka is much more laid back than the party scene often exhibited by its neighbor.

Most famous for the Ha Ha Tonka Castle ruins, there is plenty to explore along this stretch of the shoreline. There are also some great caves, bluffs, and sinkholes that are unique to this area and worth making the point of seeing.

4. Omaha, Nebraska

Distance from Kansas City: 3 Hours

Another midwest city with a small-town feel is Omaha, Nebraska. Less than 3 hours north of the city, Omaha is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from Kansas City for families, couples and individuals alike.

Families travel from surrounding states to visit the award-winning Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, and couples will enjoy the romance of the Old Market Entertainment District . Fontenelle Forest also has miles of beautiful hiking trails that visitors of all ages will enjoy.

This town also lays claim to inventing several foods including the Reuben, Butter Brickle ice cream, cake mix, and TV dinners. (Hey, they never claimed to be healthy.)

5. Branson, Missouri

If you’ve never heard of Branson, think of it as a mix between Nashville, Dollywood, and Las Vegas.

Over the years, the city continually outgrows itself. Everything from live country music to go-karts and outlet malls. People come from hours away in all directions come to spend a weekend in Branson.

Centered around old west living, Silver Dollar City is an amusement park set in the 1800s. From rides to shows to craftsmen making everything from baseball bats to taffy, there is something for the whole family to enjoy.

6. St. Louis, Missouri

Distance from Kansas City: 3.5 Hours

Known as the Gateway to the West, St. Louis is only a short 3.5-hour drive east of Kansas City. Take a ride up to the top of the Gateway Arch and look over the city at this famous landmark.

There are lots of great things to do for families in St Louis. The City Museum offers a fun educational experience year-round. And if you’re visiting from late spring to early fall, be sure to spend the day at the Six Flags amusement park, or the St Louis Zoo and Aquarium .

St. Louis is much bigger than most cities in this list of road trips from Kansas City, and for many, that means there’s lots of reasons to visit.

The Best 8 Hour Road Trips From Kansas City (or Longer)

One of the obvious advantages of Kansas City is the fact that it is right in the middle of the country. So any of the surrounding states are accessible by road trip.

However, we’ve narrowed down some of our favorites that are all within a roughly 8-12 hour drive – perfect for a long weekend road trip from Kansas City.

Nearly a full day of driving may sound like a lot, but when you consider the diverse landscapes you can end up at, it’s pretty amazing to leave KC early in the morning and have dinner in the mountains, the Gulf, or the Great Lakes.

7. Denver, Colorado: The Best Mountain Road Trip From Kansas City

Distance from Kansas City: 9 Hours

Denver is less than 9 hours from Kansas City. Plus you gain an hour driving there. So it’s almost an “8 hour drive” that feels like 9 hours!

Just on the outskirts of the Rockies, Denver is the perfect destination on your way to the mountains. Stop in for supplies and grub before heading into the wilderness.

In the summer, hike or backpack Rocky Mountain National Park. In the winter you will find some of the best skiing and snowboarding.

Or take it farther and launch your own Rocky Mountain road trip .

Whatever the result, you can be sure that the Rockies do not disappoint. There’s plenty to do for couples, families, or lone ranger road trippers looking for a good time in the mountains.

8. Galveston, Texas: The Closest Beach Road Trip From Kansas City

Distance from Kansas City: 12 Hours

The obvious drawback of living in the center of the country is the distance to the east and west coasts. While either one makes for a great road trip, there is a much faster way to get to the beach.

You can get to Galveston, Texas in about 12 hours. That means you can scrape the ice off of your windshield in the morning and walk on the beach by the evening.

From there you can spend the weekend relaxing. Or you can take the family to the Kemah Boardwalk for rides, shopping, and eating.

9. Great Lakes, Michigan: The Best Midwest Road Trip From Kansas City

Distance from Kansas City: 8+ Hours

The summers in Kansas City get hot and humid. To escape you have two choices. Heading west to the mountains or heading north to the Great Lakes.

The Great Lakes offer a reprieve from the sweltering humidity of the plains. And Michigan is covered in white sandy beaches – without sharks or pirates!

You can be at the SOHA Surf Shop in South Haven, MI in 9 hours. That’s right, a surf shop in Michigan.

They are also well known for their abundance of craft breweries and farm stands lining the back roads. In season, fresh cherries and berries are among the best road trip snacks.

Chicago is also slightly closer than Michigan and offers the chance to dip your toes in Lake Michigan while escaping the heat of the midwest.

10. Bourbon Trail, Kentucky: Whiskey Tasting Road Trip From Kansas City

Distance from Kansas City: 8 Hours

Kentucky is probably most popular for Bluegrass and Bourbon. Or horse racing. No, maybe butter cake.

Whatever you have heard about Kentucky, it’s probably true. The Bourbon Trail is set in beautiful horse country. With miles of gently rolling emerald green grass fields outlined by long white fences, it is truly remarkable to experience.

Most of the distilleries are set in historic buildings, so even if you’re not into whisky, the architecture is worth the trip.

Each distillery has its own style. We recommend Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve to go from the laid-back, rustic feel to the more refined one.

And if you want to get in on the ground floor and see guys that really roll up their sleeves, go to Glenns Creek Distillery . They are in the former Old Crow distillery grounds.

Considering all this fun is within an 8 hour radius from Kansas City, Bourbon Trail, Kentucky makes for a getaway – for adults, at least!

🛑 Please: Never drink and drive; always have a designated driver or hire an Uber.

Editor’s Pick: Best Cross Country Road Trip From Kansas City

Being so close to the center of the United States makes every part of the lower 48 states drivable within a couple of days.

Seattle is 27 hours to the northwest, whereas San Diego is 24 hours southwest.

Driving northeast, you can be at Mt Katahdin, Maine in 26 hours. And the furthest stretches of the southeast coast are only 21 hours away.

With so many great options for epic long road trips from Kansas City, we finally narrowed it down to one that tops all others in our mind – the trip from Kansas City to Olympic National Park in Washington State.

11. Olympic National Park, Washington

Distance from Kansas City: 29 Hours

This is where it gets really fun because a road trip is just as much about the journey as the destination.

With your choice of stops along the way, you can visit Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, cross the Snake River in Idaho, and take a little detour to hike miles of trails near Portland, Oregon.

Once you get there, you will be immersed in old-growth forests covered in moss and the sound of the Pacific coming to rest on the incredible rocky coast.

Take a new route on the way back with stops in Montana and South Dakota. Or take some more detours to Banff, Canada in the north or to Yellowstone National Park on your way home.

☞ Check out our other suggestions for the best road trips in North America . You might just find another to inspire travel!

Day Trips & Things to Do within Kansas City

Road trips are great, but they have a time and a place. On days when you’d rather stick to the best attractions within the city, Kansas City has lots to offer.

✔️Walk in Downtown Kansas City

Over the past few decades, there has been a revitalization of Kansas City’s downtown area. Unlike most big cities, Kansas City has relatively light traffic even downtown.

Don’t miss the booming Power and Light District or the historic Union Station .

For families, The Sea Life Aquarium and Legoland are at the nearby Crown Center.

You can also take a Segway tour of The Country Club Plaza ! And of course, the cultural center in the Crossroads Arts District is a great attraction in downtown Kansas City.

Kansas City is known for its barbecue, and in this city, you’re spoiled for choices.

Arguably the best BBQ in Kansas City is Joe’s Kansas City Barbecue (formerly Oklahoma Joe’s).

You will notice that the original location is inside a gas station. Don’t worry! (It’s not like it’s sushi!) Just try it, and you’ll see why “gas station BBQ” is a really good idea.

✔️Kansas City Zoo

One of the best day trips from Kansas City for families is right inside the city at the Kansas City Zoo. With over 1700 animals representing 200+ species, there’s lots to see and do at the zoo.

The zoo even hosts overnight experiences, where families can camp under the stars or spend the night in the Penguin Plaza. Talk about a fun overnight vacation without leaving the city!

✔️Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun

Take a day trip within the city to the largest theme park in the American midwest! Worlds of Fun and the Oceans of Fun waterpark offer tons of fun for families and children in Kansas City.

With roller coasters, waterslides, wave pool, lazy river, and much more, there is never a dull moment at this top Kansas City attraction.

Turn your day trip into a mini Kansas City getaway by staying the night in the Worlds of Fun Village, where you can book a cottage or cabin or camp in your RV close to all the action of the park.

Where to Stay in Kansas City

If you plan on spending some time in Kansas City, you’re going to want to find a comfortable place to stay.

Here’s a look at the best Kansas City hotels.

⭐Top Upscale Boutique Kansas City Hotel: The Truitt ⭐Top Budget-Friendly Kansas City Hotel: Holiday Inn – Kansas City – Northeast

Which Road Trips From Kansas City Will You Choose?

Kansas City has always been at the crossroads for travelers in the midwest. The California, Oregon, and Sante Fe trails all passed through here during the pioneer days. The Chisholm Trail brought cattle drives from as far as Texas to the rail yards of Kansas City during the old west times.

At the intersection of two interstate highways that bisect the United States into almost perfect quadrants, Kansas City is still at the crossroads. As a result, Kansas City is the perfect place to launch a road trip to some of the best cities and sites in the American midwest.

We’ve barely even scratched the surface of the best road trips from Kansas City. Being in the Heart of America – as the city is affectionately called – affords reasonable drive times to almost anywhere.

Within 24 hours you can be at the Pacific or the Atlantic. You can be in Zion National Park in about 18 hours. Or take a road trip to Yosemite in 27 hours with stops in Denver and Las Vegas along the way.

More Road Trip Ideas

If you’re looking for more road trip ideas, be sure to check out our Road Trip Page!

Zion to Bryce Canyon: The Ultimate Utah Road Trip 9 of the Best Road Trips in North America The 7 Best Road Trips in America How to Plan a Day Trip to Joshua Tree; 7 Beautiful Sights The Best Road Trips From Kansas City Ultimate Yosemite Road Trip – The Happy Camper’s Guide The Best Road Trips in Central and South America

Steve is an outdoor enthusiast intent on traveling the world. He is exploring the little things that make these trips just a little better. His favorite things are: a good cup of coffee, moments of solitude in beautiful surroundings, Nordic spas, and a good rope swing. He shares practical advice on traveling on a budget, without sacrificing the greatest experiences each destination has to offer.

Big News! My Green Form is now Maps Over Coffee!

Things to do in Kansas City this weekend May 3-5

K ANSAS CITY, Mo. — No matter what part of the Kansas City area you live in, it looks like there’s a festival, family-friendly activity or sporting event going on this weekend.

Here are 12 events going on this weekend — May 3 through May 5 — that are worth checking out.

To find even more events going on this weekend, check out our community calendar by clicking here .

Worlds of Fun Opening Day

This is Worlds of Fun’s 51st season. The park will also celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Timber Wolf roller coaster and the 15th anniversary of the Prowler this season. Oceans of Fun will open for the summer on Saturday, May 25.

Current Watch Party

The Current is hosting its very first away match watch party at CPKC Stadium for Houston Dash vs. KC Current. You will be able to watch the match on the big screen and enjoy Cinco de Mayo food and beverage specials.

The watch party starts at noon on Saturday.

Painted Garden

After a long winter, Powell Gardens welcomes Painted Garden. You can celebrate the color spreading across the gardens by admiring the botanical displays, spring blooms, and works of art. 

Guadalupe Centers Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

This year’s Fiesta is a three-day-long event. Families can enjoy local and national entertainment, folkloric dancers, kids activities, a petting zoo, vendors, a variety of delicious food, artists, contests and raffles.

Time: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, 12 to 10 p.m. Saturday, 12 to 8 p.m. Sunday.

NASCAR Cup Series AdventHealth 400 Race

NASCAR returns to Kansas Speedway for a thrilling weekend of racing. Tickets start at $49; kids 12 and under start at $10.

Kentucky Derby at J. Rieger & Co.

This is an all-inclusive event featuring Derby-inspired bites, J. Rieger & Co. mint juleps, a giant screen to watch the race, live music and a photo booth.

All ticket options include access to the Electric Park Garden Bar, Atrium, and Tasting Room bars from 3 to 6 p.m. General admission tickets are $100.

Tech N9ne with the KC Symphony

Tech N9ne is joining the Kansas City Symphony for a show at the Midland Theatre this weekend. They are preparing for “a night of music unlike any other,” according to posts on social media.

Tickets are available on the Midland Theatre website .

Royals vs Rangers: Star Wars Night

Travel to The K at lightspeed on May 4 and take home a special Jedi Bobby Witt Jr. bobblehead with the purchase of a theme ticket. The first pitch is at 6:10 p.m.

Cinco de Mayo in Westport

On Sunday, Westport will champion the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, featuring Mariachi bands, salsa dancers and mouthwatering salsa tastings to celebrate Mexican culture, cuisine, and heritage. Tickets for the tastings are $10.

The tasting begins at noon and includes Westport Bar & Recreation, Beer Kitchen, Brix, Char Bar, Harpos, Harry’s Bar and Tables, Kelly’s Westport Inn and Taco Naco.

First Fridays in the Crossroads

The Kansas City community comes alive as arts organizations, galleries, studios, and a wide variety of businesses in the district feature local, regional, national, and international artists . There is also a large assortment of food trucks. First Fridays starts at 5 p.m.

Waldo Spring Fling

This is a spring-inspired outdoor festival with fun experiences and new ways to celebrate everything Waldo. The festival is a great way to celebrate Waldo businesses, non-profit businesses and food trucks. The event starts Saturday at 10 a.m. and goes until 5 p.m.

Brookside Art Fair

The 38th Brookside Art Annual is all weekend long and is full of family-friendly activities, local food, and over 170 artists from across the nation for this beloved celebration of art. The art fair is Friday through Sunday on 63rd and Brookside Boulevard, in the historic Brookside Shops.

• Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.

Summer in Kansas City: 2024 events, festivals you don’t want to miss

The sun is shining, patios are open, and the music is playing!  

Summer festivals, international soccer, top concerts and more lead the way this summer in Kansas City. From annual favorites to first-time fun, here are over 40 events worth checking out.   

Brookside Art Annual (May 3-5) – The Kansas City art festival season kicks off with the Brookside Art Annual, when the tree-lined streets of charming Brookside transform into al fresco gallery spaces, plus tasty treats and live music. 

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta (May 3-5) – This three-day celebration hosted by Guadalupe Centers will showcase local and national entertainment. Families can also enjoy local food, vendors, kids' activities and more. 

Worlds of Fun opening day (May 4) – KC's popular amusement park opens for the summer with some of the region’s most thrilling rides. This season, Worlds of Fun is adding two new weekend festivals.  

NASCAR at Kansas Speedway (May 4-5) – Head to Kansas Speedway for fast-paced NASCAR action. Three races in one weekend means plenty of high-octane fun.  

“MJ” at the Music Hall (May 7-12) – One of the greatest entertainers of all time, Michael Jackson’s story comes to the stage as “MJ,” a Tony Award-winning musical. This new show is stopping in Kansas City on its first national tour.  

Turkey Creek Festival (May 18) – This all-day event in Merriam, Kansas, includes everything from a pancake breakfast and a 5K to live music and a Kid Zone at the picturesque Antioch Park. 

Kelce Jam (May 18) – Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce is hosting his second annual Kelce Jam at Azura Amphitheater. Rappers Lil Wayne, Diplo and 2Chainz are this year’s headliners.  

Kansas City Triathlon (May 19) -- KC's premier triathlon event kicks off the summer season at Longview Lake . Options include Olympic, Sprint and Relay distance options as well as a duathlon. 

“Disney100” (May 24 through Nov. 30) – Walt Disney began his animation career right in the heart of Kansas City. This summer, Disney’s history and impact will come to Kansas City again as “Disney100: The Exhibition” takes over Union Station . Kansas City is one of the first three cities to host the historic North American tour.  

Oceans of Fun opening day (May 25) – The largest outdoor water park in the Midwest begins its summer season, stretching the fun until Labor Day. 

Celebration at the Station (May 26) – Enjoy the official start of summer with the largest free Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest. Against the majestic backdrop of Union Station, the Kansas City Symphony performs patriotic favorites, followed by fireworks. 

Festa Italiana (May 31 through June 3) – Eat and drink your way through Italy—no passport required! Italian culture takes center stage in this event at Zona Rosa , which includes food, a beer garden, a car show and novelty booths. 

Hospital Hill Run (June 1) – Featuring half-marathon, 5k and 10k races, this Kansas City running tradition benefits Children's Mercy Hospital. Do you have what it takes to challenge "the thrill of the hill"? 

Tacos and Tequilia Festival (June 1) – The popular Tacos and Tequilia Festival is back, this time with T-Pain, Ashanti, Chamillionaire and more hitting the stage. And of course, there will be plenty of tacos from KC chefs, margaritas and tequila tasting.   

Vaile Strawberry Festival (June 1) – The beautiful, historic Vaile Mansion hosts this annual event, which welcomes craft and antique dealers who set up their wares throughout the mansion—and, of course, strawberry treats as you shop.  

Noah Kahan at Azura Amphitheater (June 5) – After a breakout year, Grammy nominee Noah Kahan is hitting the road in 2024 and he’s headed to Kansas City. The singer-songwriter is known for hits like “Dial Drunk,” “Stick Season” and “She Calls Me Back.” 

Old Shawnee Days (June 6-9) – Past meets present during this four-day event that celebrates the history of Shawnee, Kansas, with attractions including rides, music, games, historical reenactments and crafts. 

KC Pride (June 7-9) – See why The Advocate named KC Pride one of the top 10 LGBTQ festivals in the nation. Throughout the weekend event, celebrate inclusion, diversity and pride with live music and performances from local and national headliners. 

Heart of America Shakespeare Festival (June 11-30) – To festival, or not to festival? At the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, that’s not even a question. This year, the free festival features performances of William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar.” 

Boulevardia (June 14-15) – Crown Center transforms into an all-senses destination during this festival hosted by Boulevard Brewing Co. , complete with food trucks, concerts, maker booths, a family carnival and, of course, beer stations that offer local, regional and national brews. 

JuneteenthKC Heritage Festival (June 15) – This annual festival in Kansas City’s Jazz District will feature live entertainment from local artists, including a gospel jubilee, plus food, vendors and children’s activities.  

Great Lenexa BBQ Battle (June 21-22) – Started in 1982, this Sunflower State competition attracts barbecue teams and cooks from all over the country to compete for the coveted title of Grand Champion of the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle, The Kansas State Championship. 

Q BBQ Fest (June 21-22) – Pitmasters from across the country gather at GEHA Field at  Arrowhead Stadium for this family-friendly festival. Featuring free admission for all, individual pitmasters offer barbecue dishes for sale. The event also features live music, beer, VIP experiences and more. 

Copa America 2024 Peru vs Canada (June 25) – Children’s Mercy Park will host two-time Copa America champions Peru vs Canada, playing in the tournament for the first time. Copa America is the oldest national team tournament in the world, and Kansas City is one of 13 host cities.  

Country Stampede (June 27-29) – The popular Country Stampede festival is making Azura Amphitheater its new home. This year’s lineup includes Jon Pardi, Riley Green, Billy Currington, Chris Janson and more.  

Copa America 2024 USA vs Uruguay (July 1) – The U.S. Men’s National Team comes to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium to face Uruguay in a major matchup. The USMNT has never lost in Kansas City, so all eyes will be on the soccer capital of America. 

Stars and Stripes Picnic (July 4) – Celebrate July Fourth on the lawn of the National WWI Museum and Memorial for Kansas City's official Independence Day event. Enjoy live music, shop and eat from local vendors and experience the largest fireworks display in the city. 

Kenny Chesney at Arrowhead Stadium (July 6) – Country music star Kenny Chesney is returning to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, already holding the record for the most performances in history at the stadium. The Zac Brown Band, Megan Moroney and Uncle Kracker will join him.  

Barbie the Movie: In Concert (July 15) – Barbie fans of all ages can enjoy a new experience under the night sky at Starlight Theatre . The hit movie “Barbie” will play while accompanied by an all-women orchestra.  

Festival of Butterflies (July 18 through Aug. 24) – At this perennial favorite at Powell Gardens , step into the magical world of butterflies and enjoy opportunities to learn more about the fluttering creatures. 

KC Fringe Festival (July 18-28) – There’s no better time to celebrate Kansas City’s vibrant creativity than during this 14-day showcase of local performing and visual arts. 

Amelia Earhart Festival (July 19-20) – Head to Atchison, Kansas, Amelia Earhart’s birthplace, for an annual celebration of the aviation icon packed with events, including live music, carnival rides, a food and crafts fair, aerobatic performances and a fireworks show. 

“Moulin Rouge” at the Music Hall (July 23 through Aug. 4) – The popular film comes to life on stage in this Tony Award-winning musical. Enter a world of splendor and romance as “Moulin Rouge” comes to Kansas City in its first US tour.  

Olivia Rodrigo at T-Mobile Center (July 26) – Popstar Olivia Rodrigo is coming to T-Mobile Center for her GUTS Tour, her first arena tour. It’s also her first show in Kansas City.  

Heart of America Hot Dog Festival (Aug. 3) – The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum welcomes hot dog aficionados to sample delicious ballpark franks, including the signature Kansas City Monarch Dog, plus live music and admission to the museum. 

“Come From Away” at Starlight (Aug. 6-11) – Enjoy a night under the stars with the true story of “Come From Away.” The musical explores a town’s remarkable act of kindness after the 9/11 attacks.  

PickleCon (Aug. 8-11) – Pickleball has taken the nation by storm, and the center of all the action can be found here in Kansas City. The first-ever PickleCon will fill the Kansas City Convention Center with 100 courts, plus clinics, adaptive play and other opportunities for fans at all levels. 

Blink-182 at T-Mobile Center (Aug. 9) – Blink-182 will bring their “ONE MORE TIME…” tour to Kansas City’s T-Mobile Center. The reunited pop-punk band are off on their first tour in about a decade.  

Sunflower Festival (mid-August) – Enjoy Kansas’ state flower as it pops up at dozens of local fields, including the popular KC Pumpkin Patch . The sunflowers make for great photo opportunities, and this Olathe farm has plenty of fun for the family.  

Zach Bryan at T-Mobile Center (Aug. 20 and Aug. 21) – After setting a new attendance record last year, country star Zach Bryan is returning to T-Mobile Center – this time for two shows.  

Parkville Days (Aug. 23-25) – The quaint riverfront community of Parkville, Missouri, celebrates its history and future with this annual family friendly festival, featuring crafts, carnival favorites and more.  

SantaCaliGon Days (Aug. 30 through Sept. 2) – This Independence, Missouri, festival commemorates the origin of the Santa Fe, California and Oregon trails during westward expansion. Browse over 500 artisan, craft, food and commercial vendor booths, a carnival, a 5K and more. 

Kansas City Irish Fest (Aug. 30 through Sept. 1) – Celebrate KC’s Celtic heritage with three days of live music, special performances, locally provided libations, activities for young ones, tastings and plenty more in this beloved Crown Center bash. 

10 Kansas City concerts that are not to be missed this May

Taylor Swift isn’t in town, but her connections will make a local impact at Travis Kelce’s music festival and Jack Antonoff’s show at Grinders. Kansas City legend Tech N9ne, revenge song expert Ashley McBryde, and blues slinger Gary Clark Jr. round out the concert calendar.

Worlds collide in a summit of disparate Kansas City institutions at the Midland Theater this month. The collaboration between Tech N9ne and the Kansas City Symphony is the event of the year for “Technicians,” as rabid fans of the local rap legend are known. Observers advocating progressive evolution in the Symphony also cheer the partnership.

A pair of high-profile concerts tangentially related to global pop icon Taylor Swift will attract even bigger audiences. Kelce Jam, a hip-hop and electronic dance music concert curated by Swift’s paramour, Travis Kelce, is headlined by Lil Wayne. And Bleachers, the rock band overseen by Swift’s trusted collaborator Jack Antonoff, returns to Kansas City.

Also in May, the country-rocker Ashley McBryde will crank up the volume on her drinking and cheating songs at the Uptown Theater. Admirers of Gary Clark Jr. might consider bringing earplugs to the sonic maximalist’s concert at the Midland Theater. And Humbird will showcase its aggressive variation of folk at miniBar.

Music lovers who prefer serenity aren’t left out. The instrumental music of Hermanos Gutiérrez will fill The Truman with tranquil sounds, Jacob Collier will imbue the Music Hall with cerebral sophistication, and Tenille Townes’ show at the Bottleneck promises to provide a few tender moments.

Tech N9ne with the Kansas City Symphony: May 4

• When: 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 4
• Where: The Midland Theatre , 1228 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri 64105
• Tickets: Starting at $45

The people expressing surprise at Tech N9ne ’s collaboration with the Kansas City Symphony clearly aren’t committed fans of the rapper known as “The Kansas City King.”

Tech N9ne’s genre-bending sound borrows freely from classical music. “ I'm a Playa ,” a staple of Tech N9ne performances, is constructed on Falco’s 1985 homage to Mozart, “ Rock Me Amadeus .”

“ The Industry Is Punks ” is another Tech N9ne classic that owes as much to classical-leaning rock bands like Queen as to conventional rap. That’s why this May’s concert at The Midland Theater isn’t unexpected — it was inevitable.

Ashley McBryde: May 9

• When: 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 9
• Where: Uptown Theater , 3700 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri 64111
• Tickets: Starting at $35

Revenge songs don’t get much sweeter than “ Girl Goin' Nowhere .” The composition, written and performed by country star Ashley McBryde , revels in the satisfaction of proving doubters wrong.

There’s more where that came from. The Grand Ole Opry inductee also wrote contemporary Nashville classics, including the defiant “ A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega ” and the hilarious “ Brenda Put Your Bra On .”

Honky tonk traditionalist Will Jones is the opening act on McBryde’s “The Devil I Know” tour.

Hermanos Gutiérrez: May 9

• Where: The Truman , 601 E. Truman Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64106
• Tickets: $32 in advance

The title of “ Sonido Cósmico ,” the forthcoming album by Hermanos Gutiérrez , translates to “cosmic sound.” The phrase only begins to capture the music made by the sibling guitar duo of Estevan and Alejandro Gutiérrez.

The brothers’ evocative instrumentals recall the dusty soundtracks Ennio Morricone composed for westerns, including “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.”

Produced by Easy Eye Sound record label owner and Black Keys mastermind Dan Auerbach, the brothers’ latest material is making Hermanos Gutiérrez a crossover sensation.

Humbird: May 10

• When: 8 p.m. on Friday, May 10
• Where: miniBar , 3810 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri 64111
• Tickets: $19

Like an inappropriate partycrasher, Humbird brought loud rock to the Folk Alliance International 2024 Conference held in Kansas City in February.

Backed by a powerhouse tandem of electric bass and rock-oriented drums, the Minnesota band led by Siri Undlin surprised folk purists at its official showcase.

Much of Humbird’s catalog consists of refined folk . A new direction in the vein of electric Neil Young, instead of the delicate folk of Joan Baez, will help Humbird fit in at the rock-oriented miniBar. Adelyn Strei opens the show.

Gary Clark Jr.: May 15

• When: 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15
• Tickets: Starting at $39.50

Gary Clark Jr. rose to fame as a blues guitar slinger in the fabled Texas tradition of Freddie King, Johnny Winter and Stevie Ray Vaughan. As with those men, Clark dares to follow an unconventional muse.

Blues remains the foundation of Clark’s sound, but his startling new album, “JPEG RAW,” includes elements of African desert blues as well as American jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop and pop.

Clark’s embrace of a multiplicity of styles seems entirely natural. The Midland Theater will be filled with a corresponding variety of blues fans, rock-and-rollers and connoisseurs of experimental sounds.

Tenille Townes: May 16

• When: 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 16
• Where: The Bottleneck , 737 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, Kansas 66044
• Tickets: $22 in advance

Why is Tenille Townes performing in nightclubs rather than in arenas? Fortunate fans at the Bottleneck who sing along with Townes on May 16 are bound to wonder why she isn’t headlining the T-Mobile Center.

The disparity is one of country music’s biggest mysteries. Towne’s pop-country anthems like “ Where You Are ” and “ As You Are ” are ideally suited for big halls.

True to her Canadian heritage, Townes was invited to the stage by pop-country icon Shania Twain when she was 9, and she released a duet with rock star Bryan Adams last year.

Kelce Jam: May 18

• When: 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 18
• Where: Azura Amphitheater , 633 N. 130th St., Bonner Springs, Kansas 66012
• Tickets: Starting at $50

Travis Kelce adds new meaning to the concept of jock jams. The celebrity tight end of the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs “personally recruited his favorite artists” for the second edition of Kelce Jam in Bonner Springs, according to the event’s website.

Lil Wayne is Kelce’s headliner. He may now be best known as a sports commentator , but hits like “ A Milli ” made the New Orleans man known as Weezy one of the world’s most popular rappers for much of the new millennium.

Music impresario Diplo and rapper 2 Chainz (who is even taller than the 6-foot-5 host) are among the additional stars celebrating with Kelce in Kansas.

Jeffrey Osborne: May 18

• When: 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 18
• Where: Ameristar Casino , 3200 N. Ameristar Drive, Kansas City, Missouri 64161
• Tickets: Starting at $60

Thousands of fans of exuberant 1970s funk and frothy ‘80s pop are looking forward to Lionel Richie’s June 6 concert at T-Mobile Center.

Jeffrey Osborne ’s May 18 appearance at Ameristar Casino is an ideal warmup for the big event. While Richie rose to fame as a member of the Commodores, Osborne sang on timeless L.T.D. hits like “ Love Ballad ” during the same era.

Osborne became a successful solo artist in the 1980s with hits like “ Stay With Me Tonight ” and “ On the Wings of Love .” Richie may be more famous than Osborne, but the men are artistic equals.

Bleachers: May 23

• When: 7:25 p.m. on Thursday, May 23
• Where: Grinders KC , 1826 Locust St., Kansas City, Missouri 64108
• Tickets: Sold out, but tickets are available on the secondary market

Just as the celebrity of Travis Kelce took on new dimensions when he was romantically linked to Taylor Swift, the public profile of Jack Antonoff was elevated by his association with the pop superstar.

In addition to helping Swift make a successful transition from country music, Antonoff’s work with additional artists including Lorde, Lana Del Rey and Olivia Rodrigo shaped the sound of popular music.

Antonoff evokes the melodramatic side of Bruce Springsteen with Bleachers . Not coincidentally, both stars are New Jersey natives. Samia , yet another artist who has worked with Antonoff, opens the sold-out show.

Jacob Collier: May 31

• When: 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 31
• Where: Kansas City Music Hall , 301 W. 13th St., Kansas City, Missouri 64105

Jacob Collier is as much a musicologist as he is a pop star. The 29-year-old Brit leveraged the popularity of his instructional videos and expert analysis to become a celebrity.

As an avatar of good taste and elite craftsmanship, Collier fashions himself as an heir to the legacy of Quincy Jones. Pop music’s establishment concurs.

Collier’s latest release includes features by Brandi Carlile, John Legend, John Mayer and Michael McDonald. The comparably-cultured Emily King opens Collier’s concert.

3 bodies in Mexican well identified as Australian and American surfers killed for truck’s tires

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Relatives have identified three bodies found in a well as those of two Australian surfers and one American who went missing last weekend, Mexican authorities said Sunday.

Baja California state prosecutors said the relatives had viewed the corpses recovered from a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep and recognized them as their loved ones.

Thieves apparently killed the three, who were on a surfing trip to Mexico’s Baja peninsula, to steal their truck because they wanted the tires. They then allegedly got rid of the bodies by dumping them in a well near the coast.

The well was located some 4 miles (6 kilometers) from where the foreigners were killed, and also contained a fourth cadaver that had been there much longer.

Three suspects are being held in connection with the case, which locals said was solved far more quickly than the disappearances of thousands of Mexicans.

The three men were on a camping and surfing trip along a stretch of coast south of the city of Ensenada, posting idyllic photos on social media of waves and isolated beaches, before they went missing last weekend.

Chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez described what likely would have been moments of terror that ended the trip for brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad.

She theorized the killers drove by and saw the foreigners’ pickup truck and tents and wanted to steal their tires. But “when (the foreigners) came up and caught them, surely, they resisted.”

She said that’s when the killers would have shot the tourists.

The thieves then allegedly went to what she called “a site that is extremely hard to get to” and allegedly dumped the bodies into a well they apparently were familiar with. She said investigators were not ruling out the possibility the same suspects also dumped the first, earlier body in the well as part of previous crimes.

“They may have been looking for trucks in this area,” Andrade Ramírez said.

The thieves allegedly covered the well with boards. “It was literally almost impossible to find it,” Andrade Ramírez said, and it took two hours to winch the bodies out of the well.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed sympathy for the Robinson family. “I think the whole country’s heart goes out to all of their loved ones. It has been an absolutely horrendous, absolutely horrific ordeal and our thoughts are with all of them today,” he said at a news conference Monday in the capital, Canberra.

The site where the bodies were discovered near the township of Santo Tomás was near the remote seaside area where the missing men’s tents and truck were found Thursday along the coast. From their last photo posts, the trip looked perfect. But even experienced local expatriates are questioning whether it is safe to camp along the largely deserted coast anymore.

The moderator of the local Talk Baja internet forum, who has lived in the area for almost two decades, wrote in an editorial Saturday that “the reality is, the dangers of traveling to and camping in remote areas are outweighing the benefits anymore.”

But in a way, adventure was key to the victims’ lifestyle.

Callum Robinson’s Instagram account contained the following slogan: “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room.”

At the news conference, Andrade Ramírez was questioned by one reporter who expressed approval that such a massive and rapid search was mounted for the foreigners, but asked why, when local people disappear in the area, little is often done for weeks, months, or years.

“Do you have to be a foreigner in Baja California in order for there to be an investigation if something happens to you?’ asked the reporter, who did not identify herself by name. “Every investigation is different,” Andrade Ramírez replied.

As if to underscore that point, dozens of mourners, surfers and demonstrators gathered in a main plaza in Ensenada, the nearest city, to voice their anger and sadness at the deaths.

“Ensenada is a mass grave,” read one placard carried by protesters. “Australia, we are with you,” one man scrawled on one of the half-dozen surf boards at the demonstration.

A woman held up a sign that read “They only wanted to surf — we demand safe beaches.”

Gabriela Acosta, a surfer, attended the protest “to show love, solidarity and respect for the three lives that were lost.” Acosta said that surfers in Baja are aware of the dangers.

“We are women and we would sometimes like to surf alone,” Acosta said. “But we never do that, because of the situation. We always have to go accompanied.”

“I think that what happened to them is just an example of the lack of safety in this state,” she said.

Surfers later performed a “paddle-out” ceremony where they formed a circle on their boards in the ocean.

Baja California prosecutors had said they were questioning three people in the killings, two of them because they were caught with methamphetamines. Prosecutors said the two were being held pending drug charges but continue to be suspects in the killings.

A third man was arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping, but that was before the bodies were found. It was unclear if he might face more charges.

The third suspect was believed to have directly participated in the killings. In keeping with Mexican law, prosecutors identified him by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” a slang word that means “quesadillas,” or cheese tortillas. Andrade Ramírez said he had a criminal record, and that more people may have been involved.

Last week, the mother of the missing Australians, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page, appealing for help in finding her sons. Robinson said Callum and Jake had not been heard from since April 27. They had booked accommodation in the city of Rosarito, not far from Ensenada.

Robinson said Callum was diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

In 2015, two Australian surfers, Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas, were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California — also known as the Sea of Cortez — from the Baja peninsula. Authorities said they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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