Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Kansas City for a day and explore new and exciting destinations? Look no further! In this guide, we will uncover the top 15 day trips from Kansas City that are sure to provide you with a memorable experience. From natural attractions to cultural hotspots, there’s something for everyone just a short drive away from the city.
Discovering the Beauty of Powell Gardens
Located less than 45 minutes away from downtown Kansas City, Powell Gardens is a sprawling 915-acre botanical garden waiting to be explored. With a variety of sections to discover, including the indoor conservatory and the Rock and Waterfall garden, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of nature. Don’t miss the visitor education center, designed to seamlessly blend in with its surroundings. It’s a perfect spot to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.
- Spanning 915 acres of natural beauty
- Features an indoor conservatory and Rock and Waterfall garden
- Explore the visitor education center for a deeper understanding of the environment
Sailing Away at Lake Jacomo
For water enthusiasts, a trip to Lake Jacomo is a must. This freshwater lake offers 970 acres of outdoor adventure, with activities such as wind surfing, sailing, boating, and fishing. Named after Jackson County, MO, this picturesque destination is perfect for a day of relaxation on the water.
- 970 acres of freshwater fun
- Ideal for wind surfing, sailing, boating, and fishing
- Enjoy the beauty of the lake and its surroundings
Exploring the Charm of Weston
Just a short drive from Kansas City, Weston is a quaint town with a lot to offer. Visit Green Dirt Farm for high-quality products like grass-fed lamb and sheep’s milk cheese. Don’t miss the Farm Table Dinners, where you can indulge in locally produced food and learn about the farm-to-table connection. After your visit, explore the local brewery or winery for a refreshing drink.
- Discover locally sourced products at Green Dirt Farm
- Indulge in a Farm Table Dinner for a taste of the region
- Visit a local brewery or winery for a drink with a view
Tasting Excellence on the Somerset Wine Trail
Embark on a wine-tasting adventure along the Somerset Wine Trail, home to four award-winning wineries. From Somerset Ridge to White Wind Farm, each winery produces its own grapes and crafts unique wines on-site. Explore vineyards, sample wine, and learn about the winemaking process on this delightful trail.
- Experience wine tasting at four award-winning wineries
- Learn about the winemaking process and vineyard production
- Sample a variety of wines to suit every palate
Relaxing at Excelsior Springs
Unwind at Excelsior Springs, home to the luxurious Elms Hotel and Spa. Built in 1888, this historic hotel has welcomed famous guests like Harry S. Truman and Al Capone. Treat yourself to a range of wellness options, from facials to massages, in a serene and tranquil setting. A perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Enjoy a relaxing day at the Elms Hotel and Spa
- Indulge in wellness treatments like facials and massages
- Escape the city and rejuvenate in a serene environment
Delving into History at Independence, MO
Explore the historic city of Independence, MO, known for being the home of President Harry S. Truman. Tour the president’s former home and visit the presidential library to learn about his influential life. Discover a gothic mansion, local shops, and excellent dining options for a day filled with history and charm.
- Discover the home of President Harry S. Truman
- Explore historic sites and local shops in Independence
- Enjoy a day filled with presidential history and cultural heritage
Stepping Back in Time at Missouri Town 1855
Immerse yourself in the living history museum of Missouri Town 1855, just east of Independence. Experience scenes from the 1850s, including authentic houses, a blacksmith shop, and a mercantile. With over 30 acres and 25 buildings to explore, this museum offers a glimpse into the past like no other.
- Step back in time at Missouri Town 1855
- Explore authentic buildings and scenes from the 1850s
- Experience living history with original furnishings and equipment
Discovering Entertainment at Prairiefire
Located in Overland Park, Prairiefire is an entertainment complex offering museums, restaurants, bars, a cinema, and a bowling alley. Partnered with New York’s American Museum of Natural History, the museum boasts world-class exhibitions and dining options. Spend the day indulging in intellectual stimulation or relaxing in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Experience entertainment at Prairiefire in Overland Park
- Explore museums, restaurants, bars, and more
- Enjoy world-class exhibitions and dining options
Exploring the German Charm of Hermann
Visit the German-influenced town of Hermann for a cultural and culinary adventure. Founded by Germans from Philadelphia in 1837, Hermann is known for its wineries and local shops. Explore the charming streets, dine at restaurants serving locally produced wine, and enjoy live music at wineries along the river.
- Experience the German charm of Hermann
- Visit local shops and restaurants
- Enjoy wine tasting and live music at wineries along the river
Embracing Culture in Lawrence
Escape to Lawrence for a change of pace and immerse yourself in cultural and historic sites. Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence offers attractions like the Spencer Art Museum, the Watkins Museum of History, and Liberty Hall theater. Explore the vibrant music scene, attend university sports events, and relax at South Park or Clinton Lake.
- Immerse yourself in culture and history in Lawrence
- Explore museums, theaters, and historical sites
- Enjoy the music scene, sports events, and outdoor activities in Lawrence
Adventuring in St. Joseph
Discover the outdoor beauty of St. Joseph, a town rich in history and outdoor activities. Explore over 26 miles of parkway, hike or bike along scenic trails, and visit the Pony Express Museum to learn about its historic stables. Enjoy a picnic in the park or go horseback riding for a day of outdoor adventure.
- Explore the outdoor beauty of St. Joseph
- Hike, bike, or picnic in the scenic parkway
- Visit the Pony Express Museum and historic stables
Experiencing Louisburg’s Hidden Gems
Louisburg may be small, but it’s full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From the aquatic center offering golf and swimming to the picturesque city lake with a surrounding path, there’s something for everyone. Visit the conservation site and sanctuary, home to a Siberian tiger, or stargaze at the Powell Observatory during the Cider Fest in autumn.
- Discover hidden gems in Louisburg
- Enjoy outdoor activities at the aquatic center and city lake
- Visit the conservation site, sanctuary, and observatory for a unique experience
Unveiling History in Carthage
Step back in time in Carthage, a city rich in Old West and Civil War history. Known for its beautiful marble buildings and autumnal foliage, Carthage offers a glimpse into the past. Swim in a nearby lake, explore historic battle sites, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this charming city.
- Explore Old West and Civil War history in Carthage
- Discover beautiful marble buildings and autumnal foliage
- Swim in a nearby lake and explore historic battle sites
Celebrating Aviation in Atchison
Visit Atchison to celebrate the legacy of Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum and the International Forest of Friendship dedicated to aviation pioneers. Learn about the history of flight and pay homage to this trailblazing female explorer in Atchison.
- Discover the aviation history of Atchison
- Visit the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum
- Explore the International Forest of Friendship dedicated to aviation pioneers
Immersing Yourself in Leavenworth’s Culture
Experience the vibrant culture of Leavenworth, the first city to be incorporated into Kansas. Explore local breweries, artisanal crafts, and antique shops in the charming city. Visit Fort Leavenworth for a history lesson at the Buffalo Soldier Memorial Park and the Frontier Army Museum. Learn about the rich history of the black pioneers at the Richard Allen Cultural Centre.
- Immerse yourself in the culture of Leavenworth
- Explore local breweries, artisanal shops, and antique stores
- Visit Fort Leavenworth for a history lesson and cultural experience
In conclusion, the Kansas City area is surrounded by diverse and exciting day trip destinations just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or food enthusiast, there’s something for everyone within a short drive of the city. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a day trip adventure you won’t soon forget!