long weekend trips from kansas city

Road Trips from Kansas City: The Good, the Great, and the Absolutely Must-See!

Embark on unforgettable road trips from Kansas City with our comprehensive guide. Dive into day trips, weekend getaways, and extended holiday adventures, all sprinkled with humor and local insights. Fuel your wanderlust and hit the road!

Table of Contents

Road trips from kansas city: the unofficial center of the universe (or so we’d like to think).

Ah, Kansas City. The place where the Missouri River isn’t just a river; it’s a landmark that’s probably been a part of more selfies than the Eiffel Tower (okay, maybe that’s a stretch). But if you’re like me, every once in a while, the itch to explore beyond our great city’s borders becomes too strong to ignore. And let’s face it, while we’re the unofficial center of the universe, there’s a whole lot of North America out there waiting to be explored.

The Close Proximity Perks of Being a Kansas Citian

Now, here’s the good news for all you restless Kansas Citians: we’re in close proximity to some of the best spots in the United States. Yep, you heard it right. We’re not just famous for our barbecue (though, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty big deal). We’re also the perfect launching pad for some of the best road trips you can imagine. And if you’re wondering where to start, well, you’re in the right place.

St. Louis: More than Just an Arch Rival

First stop, St. Louis. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Isn’t that where they have that shiny arch thing?” Well, yes. But St. Louis is also a great city with a City Museum that’s so cool, it makes our own museums look like they’re still in kindergarten. And the best part? It’s just a short drive away. So, whether you’re in it for the history, the rivalry, or just some darn good food, St. Louis is a day trip worth taking.

The Great Outdoors and… Ice Cream?

Speaking of food, did you know that South Dakota is home to a botanical garden that’s so beautiful, it might just make you forget about our own local honey for a second? And if nature’s beauty isn’t enough to tempt you, there’s always the promise of ice cream. Because let’s face it, any road trip that doesn’t involve ice cream is just a car ride.

The College Town with a Main Street Vibe

But maybe you’re looking for something a bit closer to home. Enter Des Moines, the college town with a main street that’s so vibrant, you’ll wonder if you’ve stepped into a musical. With good food, great spots, and an unmistakably youthful vibe, it’s the perfect place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

The Wild Side of Road Tripping

And for those of you with a wild side, there’s always the Tanganyika Wildlife Park. It’s one of the best places in the United States to get up close and personal with wild animals. And by “up close and personal,” I mean “take a selfie with a giraffe” level of closeness. It’s a favorite place for many Kansas Citians, and once you visit, you’ll see why.

The Road Awaits!

So, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone with a car and a sense of adventure, Kansas City is the perfect starting point for your next road trip. From the historic sites of St. Louis to the great outdoors of South Dakota, there’s a world out there waiting to be explored. And the best part? It’s all just a short drive away.

There you have it! A humorous introduction to the wonders that await beyond Kansas City. So, grab your keys, pack some snacks, and let’s hit the road!

Day Trips: A Short Drive Away (But Long Enough for a Good Playlist)

St. louis: not just an arch nemesis.

Ah, St. Louis . Our friendly neighboring city that we love to poke fun at. But let’s set the record straight: it’s a great city. And yes, they have that shiny arch thingy, but did you know they also have the City Museum? This isn’t your typical “please don’t touch” museum. Oh no. It’s more of a “climb, explore, and maybe get lost for a bit” kind of place. And the best part? It’s a short drive away. So, if you’re looking for a day trip filled with adventure (and maybe a tiny bit of rivalry), St. Louis is your place.

Des Moines: More Than Just Difficult to Spell

Next up, we have Des Moines. First things first: it’s pronounced “duh-MOYN,” not “dez moans.” Now that we’ve got that out, let’s talk about this college town. With its vibrant main street, it’s like stepping into a scene from a classic American movie. Think good food, live music, and a whole lot of charm. And if you’re wondering about tourist attractions, the botanical garden is a must-visit. It’s the perfect place to pretend you’re in a tropical paradise, even if it’s just for a few hours.

Sioux Falls: Where Nature and Ice Cream Collide

If you’re a fan of beautiful scenery (and who isn’t?), Sioux Falls should be on your radar. Nestled along the Missouri River, this city offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Midwest. But it’s not just about the views. Sioux Falls is also home to some of the best ice cream in the United States. Yes, you read that right. So, if you’re looking for a day trip that combines the great outdoors with some delicious treats, Sioux Falls is the perfect spot.

Tanganyika Wildlife Park: It’s a Zoo, But Cooler

For those of you with a wild side, the Tanganyika Wildlife Park is a must-visit. Located a short drive from Kansas City, this park offers a unique experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. Here, you can get up close and personal with some of the most exotic animals in the world. And by “up close and personal,” I mean “feed a giraffe and take a selfie with a lemur” level of closeness. It’s a favorite place for many Kansas Citians, and once you visit, you’ll understand why.

Weston Bend State Park: Nature’s Playground

Last but certainly not least, we have Weston Bend State Park. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, this is the place for you. It’s a nature lover’s paradise with miles of trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking. And if you’re not into physical activity, that’s okay too. The park also offers some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the area. So, whether you’re looking to break a sweat or enjoy some beautiful scenery, Weston Bend State Park has something for everyone.

Wrapping Up the Day Trip Adventures

So, there you have it. Five amazing day trips that are just a short drive away from Kansas City. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just some good old-fashioned fun, these destinations have got you covered. And the best part? They’re all close enough that you can be back in Kansas City in time for dinner. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your keys, pack a lunch, and hit the road!

Weekend Getaways: Because Two Days of Adventure is Better Than One

Lake of the ozarks: where water meets wild fun.

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish there was a place where I could enjoy water parks by day and live music by night,” then boy, do I have good news for you. Lake of the Ozarks is that magical place. By day, splash around in water parks that make you question the laws of physics. By night, groove to live music that ranges from “I know this song!” to “What on earth is this, but why can’t I stop dancing?” And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is waiting with its mysterious name and even more mysterious natural wonders. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway that’s equal parts wet, wild, and wonderful.

Oklahoma City: Not Just OK, It’s Fantastic!

Oklahoma City, or as I like to call it, “The City of Surprises.” First surprise: the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Who knew that in the heart of OKC, you’d find a museum that rivals those in big coastal cities? And for those with a sweet tooth, there’s a local favorite ice cream shop housed in a squat yellow building that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a city that keeps you guessing, and that’s what makes it one of the best places for a weekend trip.

Little Rock: Big Adventures in a Historic Town

Little Rock might sound like a quaint, sleepy town, but don’t let its name fool you. This place is brimming with energy, history, and the Buffalo National River – which is the main attraction and not an actual buffalo. Mountain bikers, get ready to pedal through trails that’ll make your heart race (both from excitement and, well, exercise). And for those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the historic downtown area is teeming with stories, shops, and some seriously good food.

Excelsior Springs: Where Relaxation is the Name of the Game

Ever had one of those weeks where you want to soak in hot springs and forget the world? Enter Excelsior Springs. This little town offers a slice of paradise for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. And once you’re done soaking, explore the new restaurants that have popped up, serving everything from gourmet dishes to local favorites. It’s the kind of place where you arrive stressed and leave feeling like you’ve had a month-long vacation.

Wisconsin Dells: Water, Water Everywhere!

If you thought Lake of the Ozarks was the only place to make a splash, think again. Wisconsin Dells is here to challenge that title with its water parks, live shows, and an entire town that feels like one big tourist attraction. Whether you’re sliding down a water slide or enjoying a live performance, there’s never a dull moment in this town. And the best part? It’s just a short drive away, making it the perfect destination for a weekend of fun.

Weekends Worth the Drive

Weekends are precious, and there’s no better way to spend them than by exploring new places. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these destinations offer something for everyone. And the best part? They’re all just a few hours away from Kansas City. So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and get ready for a weekend adventure you won’t soon forget. Safe travels!

Holiday Trips: Because Extended Breaks Deserve Extended Adventures

Henry doorly zoo: not your average animal house.

When someone says “holiday,” you probably think of sandy beaches or snowy mountains. But what about a zoo? Not just any zoo, but the Henry Doorly Zoo, one of the best places in the United States for a family vacation. Here, the wild animals aren’t just exhibits; they’re celebrities with their own fan clubs (I’m looking at you, Larry the Lemur). The visitor center isn’t just a place to grab a map; it’s where you learn that conservation can be cooler than any action movie. So, swap that beach towel for a safari hat and make this zoo your next holiday destination.

Botanical Garden in South Dakota: Nature’s Own Art Gallery

Who needs the Louvre when you have South Dakota’s botanical garden? This place is a masterpiece of nature, with every flower, tree, and shrub meticulously curated. It’s the perfect place for those who appreciate nature’s beauty and those who just want a killer backdrop for their holiday photos. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some ice cream enthusiasts (like myself) trying to figure out if any of these plants are the secret ingredient to the world’s best sundae.

Roaring River State Park: More Roar, Less Snore

If your idea of a holiday involves adrenaline, Roaring River State Park is your jam. This isn’t just a park; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. From mountain biking trails that’ll test your mettle to fishing spots that promise the catch of a lifetime, there’s no room for boredom here. And for those who prefer a more laid-back holiday, the scenic drives offer views that are postcard-perfect. It’s the kind of place where every day feels like a holiday.

Rock City: Where the Past Rocks On

Step into Rock City , and you’re stepping back in time. This historic area is a living testament to the mid-19th century, where every building, street, and stone has a story to tell. But this isn’t just a place for history buffs. With an entire town dedicated to a bygone era, even the most tech-obsessed will be swapping their smartphones for old-timey hats and canes. It’s the perfect place for an overnight stay, a dance with history, and maybe even a ghost story or two.

National Park Service Sites: The Ultimate Holiday Checklist

If you’re the kind of person who has a bucket list for holidays, the National Park Service sites are your goldmine. These sites offer a smorgasbord of experiences from breathtaking landscapes to historic landmarks. Whether you’re looking to hike, explore, or sit back and soak in the beauty, there’s a site for every kind of holidaymaker. And the best part? With so many sites to choose from, every holiday can be a new adventure.

Wrapping Up: Holidays That Make History

So, there you have it. Five destinations that promise holidays like no other. Whether you’re looking to explore the wild, dive into history, or relax and rejuvenate, these places have got you covered. And while they might be a bit further than our usual weekend getaways, they promise memories that’ll last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, mark your calendars, and prepare for a holiday worth every mile of the journey. Safe travels and happy holidays!

Conclusion: The Road Less Traveled (But Totally Worth It)

Kansas city: the launchpad to limitless adventures.

As we wrap up this whirlwind tour of destinations, let’s take a moment to appreciate our starting point: good ol’ Kansas City. While we’ve ventured near and far, it’s always comforting to know that our beloved KC is waiting for us, with its familiar skyline and the tantalizing aroma of barbecues wafting through the air.

From Day Trips to Dreamy Holidays

Whether it’s a quick day trip to St. Louis to settle once and for all who has the better baseball team (hint: it’s us), a weekend escapade to the water wonderland of Wisconsin Dells, or an extended holiday soaking in the rich history of Rock City, there’s a world out there waiting to be explored. And the beauty of it all? Each destination, no matter how near or far, offers its own unique flavor, stories, and experiences.

The Journey is Half the Fun

While the destinations are undoubtedly spectacular, let’s not forget the joy of the journey itself. The open road, the perfect playlist, the unexpected pit stops (because who can resist that quirky ice cream parlor or the world’s largest rubber band ball?), and of course, the company. Whether it’s family, friends, or just you and your thoughts, road trips create memories that last a lifetime.

Ready, Set, Road Trip!

So, fellow Kansas Citians and travelers at heart, remember that adventure is just a drive away the next time wanderlust strikes. With so many incredible destinations within reach, choosing where to go first is the hardest decision. But no matter where the road takes you, one thing’s for sure: adventure awaits, stories beckon, and memories are just waiting to be made.

Here’s to the open road, the adventures it promises, and the stories yet to be told. Happy traveling!

Sidebars/Boxes: The Little Nuggets of Wisdom for Your Road Trip Adventures

Good news for foodies: the culinary pit stops.

Every road trip is incomplete without indulging in some lip-smacking delicacies. From the local favorite ice cream shops to the hidden gem diners in small towns, a world of flavors is waiting to be explored. Whether you’re craving Kansas City’s iconic barbecue or the fresh catch of the day near the Buffalo National River, there’s a dish for every palate. So, loosen that belt and dive into each destination’s culinary wonders.

Biking Enthusiasts: Pedal Your Way Through

For those who believe two wheels are better than four, rejoice! Many of our highlighted destinations offer scenic biking trails. From the rugged mountain biking paths in Little Rock to the serene trails along the Missouri River, there’s a route for every level of cyclist. Don’t forget to pack your helmet, and maybe a picnic basket, because these trails promise views you’ll want to savor.

For the History Buffs: Time Travel Made Easy

Who needs a time machine when you have these historic sites at your fingertips? Dive deep into the mid-19th-century charm of Rock City, explore the tales behind the iconic landmarks in St. Louis, or stroll through the historic downtown areas of our featured destinations. Each spot offers a unique glimpse into the past, making history come alive in the most enchanting way.

Local Honey and Delicacies: Sweeten the Deal

There’s nothing like tasting the local flavors to truly connect with a place. And what’s sweeter than honey? From farm-fresh local honey in Excelsior Springs to artisanal treats in small towns, these sweet spots are a must-visit. Whether you drizzle it on your morning toast or enjoy it straight from the jar, this liquid gold is sure to make your trip even sweeter.

Tips for Travel: Smooth Sailing on the Road

The journey is as important as the destination. To ensure your road trip is smooth and enjoyable, here are some quick tips:

• Easy Access: Always check the accessibility of your chosen destinations. Some spots might require a 4×4, while others are just a short walk from the parking lot.
• Overnight Stay: Research the best places for an overnight stay. Whether you’re into luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or camping under the stars, there’s a perfect spot for every traveler.
• Local Insights: Chat with the locals. They often have the best recommendations for hidden gems, from eateries to attractions.
• Safety First: Always keep a basic first-aid kit in your car, stay updated with the weather forecasts, and inform someone about your travel plans.

With these sidebars and boxes, you’re equipped with destinations and the little tidbits that make every journey memorable. Here’s to road trips filled with discoveries, delights, and a dash of wisdom! Safe travels!

Navigating through life, or as I like to call it, stumbling through a travel brochure, I’ve bounced from one continent to another like a ping pong ball. From riding a camel around the pyramids and getting lost in Cairo’s bazaars, to scuba diving wrecks off Florida, mingling with sharks in Roatan, and admiring Cozumel’s coral reefs. And amidst this whirlwind of adventure, I find time to scribble it all down in a blog, because what’s a near-death experience with a dolphin if you can’t brag about it online, right? So here’s to cheap travels, history lessons in every port, and unforgettable under-the-sea encounters. May my suitcase always be packed and my oxygen tank never be empty!

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Best weekend getaways in the midwest.

Twelve states make up America's Midwest, known for its friendly people and rolling fields filled with crops like corn and soybeans. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns, scenic escapes on the Great Lakes and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. U.S. News considered factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Use this list to plan your next adventure, then weigh in by voting for your favorite location below.

Mackinac Island

Wisconsin dells, black hills national forest, lake of the ozarks, traverse city, madison, wi, kansas city, minneapolis - st. paul, hocking hills state park, door county, voyageurs national park.

Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. The island is unique in that there are no cars or chain hotels – instead, horse-drawn carriages, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and family-owned hotels are the norm – so travelers can truly embrace the Lake Huron destination's small-town charm. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. What's more, Mackinac Island offers a variety of eateries serving everything from American comfort classics to its famous fudge.

The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. Because many of the top-notch water parks offer indoor pools and slides, they remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple resorts , golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes.

As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, the Windy City is a popular option for a weekend getaway. Chicago houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches or iconic sculptures like "The Bean." Plus, the city boasts incredible architecture, which is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan, and is a haven for foodies thanks to its smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine, ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish. No weekend trip would be complete without visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. The small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness and is a haven for outdoorsy types. In the Black Hills, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. The Black Hills is also famous for housing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents. If you don't want to camp during your visit, plan on staying in Rapid City, the closest major city to the Black Hills.

By impounding the Osage River, the state of Missouri created the Lake of the Ozarks, an expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline. Plan on spending most of your time at this central Missouri lake destination on or around the water. Rent a boat to explore and access waterfront spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave and various restaurants and resorts. When you need a break from the water, hit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail.

This Minnesota city on the shores of Lake Superior is ideal for a weekend getaway. In the Canal Park area, visitors can bike or walk along the Lakewalk, a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, snap pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge and peruse local art galleries. Travelers can also experience the city's finer features by touring all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or booking a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. What's more, refreshments are easy to come by with Duluth's selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

With attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha is a solid choice for a family trip. But this Nebraska hub appeals to all travelers with its history (best showcased at The Durham Museum), nature attractions (like the Lauritzen Gardens botanical center) and a thriving arts community (including interactive performing arts venues). Omaha also features a noteworthy food scene, with neighborhoods like the Blackstone District, home of the Reuben sandwich, and venues ranging from old-school steakhouses to award-winning sushi establishments.

Located in the northern section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City's offerings are mostly dictated by its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This impressive protected area stretches 64 miles along Lake Michigan's coast and sits about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City, providing visitors countless opportunities to camp, hike, sunbathe and more. Closer to town, travelers can explore Grand Traverse Bay or one of the region's lakes via kayak or canoe. Adults also appreciate Traverse City's selection of wineries and microbreweries, while families enjoy visiting museums like The Music House Museum, which showcases rare organs and pianos.

Wisconsin's capital city is where you'll find the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin. The university plays a significant part in the city's cultural offerings by way of on-campus sights like Memorial Union, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum and the Chazen Museum of Art. Still, the city offers its own share of noteworthy attractions, including the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Henry Vilas Zoo and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, Madison provides easy access to multiple hiking trails and features a fun downtown area where you can grab dinner, listen to live music and people watch.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Iowa's capital has a lot going for it. Situated in the center of a state known for its farming, Des Moines offers true farm-to-table cuisine, as well as the much-lauded Downtown Farmers' Market with 300-plus vendors. Meanwhile, boutiques abound in the quaint East Village district, and bikers can pedal their way along more than 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail, which crosses a 13-story bridge. Visit in the summer to make the most of your time outdoors and to take advantage of events like the 80/35 music festival.

Milwaukee's hearty comfort food and eclectic collection of museums and historical sites are sure to appeal to all kinds of weekend visitors. The city's foremost museums are the Harley-Davidson Museum, which spans 20 acres along the riverfront, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which boasts three futuristic-looking buildings and a collection with more than 30,000 pieces. Beer and history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the 19th-century Pabst Mansion or the Lakefront Brewery, while foodies will want to swing by the Milwaukee Public Market to purchase or learn how to cook a memorable meal (just don't skip the cheese curds).

Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. Many of Cincinnati's top parks, including 186-acre Eden Park, overlook the river, providing countless opportunities for scenic strolls. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Music Hall.

The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over St. Louis and marks the city's status as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. Head to Forest Park to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum and the renowned Saint Louis Zoo , neither of which charges an entry fee. Then, take a tour of some of St. Louis' noteworthy historical sights, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Kansas City straddles the border of Missouri and Kansas, putting the surprisingly trendy city within driving distance of a number of Midwestern destinations. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Kansas City's Country Club Plaza – which offers an assortment of eateries and stores, and sits within walking distance of a number of hotels – is also worth checking out. Remember to set aside time for perusing some of the city's top museums, too, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. Travelers can spend the weekend perusing the exhibits at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, attending productions at the Guthrie Theater or getting a dose of local history at sights like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center. On warm, sunny days, visitors will also want to take advantage of Minnesota's natural beauty by going for a stroll through the Chain of Lakes byway district or Minnehaha Regional Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas.

Thrill-seekers flock to this Ohio destination on Lake Erie for its world-class amusement park – Cedar Point. The park's 70 rides, including a whopping 18 roller coasters, are its main draw, but the sprawling water park and entertainment options also impress travelers of all ages. Beyond the mega-park, this coastal town also boasts family-owned dining venues and the Ohio Cheers Trail, which highlights local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Plus, cruises to the neighboring islands of Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are an ideal way to slow things down after an action-packed day.

Less than an hour's drive from Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect nature-filled weekend escape. Hocking Hills State Park's deep gorges, sandstone cliffs and leafy forests are beautiful in any season – whether dotted with wildflowers in the spring or covered with ice formations in winter. Travelers can hike to popular spots like the Ash Cave and Cedar Falls, climb the park's natural rock walls or kayak and canoe on lakes and rivers. Plus, with modern A-frames and trendy cabins to rent in the surrounding area, you'll have all the comforts of home on your getaway.   

Whether you're seeking natural splendor, villages full of character or a weekend of sampling some of the Midwest's finest cuisine, Door County, Wisconsin, will deliver. Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan about 70 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County boasts 300 miles of shoreline and countless parks that add up to 23,000 acres. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, explore the art galleries, lighthouses and museums in communities like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay. Don’t miss out on the region's must-try food experiences: cherry picking, cheese tasting and dining at a traditional Wisconsin supper club.

Within comfortable driving distance of Chicago, Milwaukee and Cedar Rapids, this northwest Illinois town is a top option for an old-fashioned Midwestern weekend getaway. Galena is full of small-town charm, with bespoke experiences like antique tractor driving and carving workshops, historical sites like the home of Ulysses S. Grant and a Hallmark-worthy Main Street. Plus, the surrounding region offers bucolic rolling hills, antique shops, wineries, farms and 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts. With events throughout the year (including the popular Great Galena Balloon Race in June), as well as seasonal skiing, Galena is a great getaway any time of year.

To make the most of your weekend, you'll want to hit the road early to get to this harder-to-reach Minnesota destination (about 300 miles north of Minneapolis on the Canadian border). Most of Voyageurs National Park, which is characterized by calm lakes, aromatic evergreens and granite cliffs, is only accessible by boat, meaning you'll be fully immersed in its natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, rent a houseboat for a unique lodging option. But colder seasons have their charms, too. Since the park is a phenomenal place to see the northern lights , the sky may just put on a show for you as the nights get longer. 

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Indianapolis

Grand Rapids

Columbus, OH

Michigan City, IN

Brown County, IN

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Best Places to Visit in Ohio

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Best Weekend Getaways in New England

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5 Getaways 5 Hours (or less) from Kansas City

by Kristina Light

April 13, 2012

Lost River at Silver Dollar City

Whether you prefer the excitement of an urban vacation, an Ozark mountain getaway, wild animals and water adventures or the opportunity to step back in time and visit another culture, we have five fabulous family getaways only five hours (or less) from Kansas City!

Once in a while, it’s fun to be “a little bit country,” and Branson, the vacation capital of the Midwest, is the perfect destination for just such a family vacation!

Branson’s most popular attraction is Silver Dollar City ( www.SilverDollarCity.com ), an 1880s-styled amusement park with thrill rides, including Fire in the Hole, a roller coaster through a mineshaft; Tom and Huck’s RiverBlast, where you enjoy “America’s biggest water battle;” and more than 30 other rides, including roller coasters Wild Fire and Thunderation. This year brings the inauguration of Half Dollar Holler, a super-sized children’s play area, and the return of SDC’s vintage carousel. Live shows, annual festivals, craft demonstrations and a tour through Marvel Cave are also part of the fun!

Kids love riding the Ducks ( www.Branson.RideTheDucks.com/home.aspx ), refurbished military vehicles that travel on both land and water. Quack duck calls as you ride through town and conclude with a big splash into Table Rock Lake for a cruise where children "co-pilot" the boat. Also visit the Titanic ( www.TitanicBranson.com ), a replica of the legendary ship with attractions for the whole family.

Dixie Stampede ( www.DixieStampede.com ) is a dinner show unlike any other! The event includes horse acts, comedy, music and a menagerie of animals from ostriches to pot belly pigs. Everyone is served a full meal with one fun catch: the entire meal is "finger food."

Branson is overflowing with fun lodging choices. For a truly unique experience, visit Caboose Junction ( http://CabooseJunctionResort.com ) in Lampe, MO, just 30 minutes from Silver Dollar City. There, your family can enjoy the adventure of staying in converted cabooses complete with bunk beds, full beds, bathrooms and kitchenettes. Read our full review of Caboose Junction.

Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri:

Stonewater Cove is an inclusive wilderness resort nestled in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest along Table Rock Lake in Missouri featuring gourmet dining, rustically elegant accommodation, and a long list of on-site adventures such as guided boating, water sport excursions, bass fishing, zip lining, ATV tours, mini-golf, kayaking, hiking, swimming, roasting s'mores, and more... discover a boutique resort set amid over 25 miles of hand-created trails and nearly 500 acres of a private enchanted forest oasis, complete with a Treehouse Spa and endless water features to calm the mind, inspire the soul, and heal the body.

Omaha, Nebraska:

Omaha is a great vacation destination for families, with one of the best zoos in the nation, an incredible water resort at CoCo Key and an array of other fun attractions.

Begin at the Omaha Zoo ( www.OmahaZoo.com ), where you can ride the Skyfari for a view overlooking animals in world-class exhibits. Walk on the wild side in the Lied Jungle and marvel at the Scott Aquarium with a 70-foot-long underwater walk-through tunnel with sharks, stingrays and ocean life.

The most entertaining place to stay is CoCo Key ( www.CocoKeyWaterRestort.com ), an indoor water resort with an Olympic-size pool, beach entry pool, water slides, Parrot’s Perch, the giant water playground, dip-in kiddie pool, a lazy river and more, all housed in a luxurious hotel.

Next, explore the interactive exhibits at the Omaha Children’s Museum ( www.OCM.org ), including the Imagination Playground, the Splish Splash Garden and Science and Technology Lab. The hands-down favorite, though, is the giant ball machine where kids send balls through an exciting maze of contraptions.

You may also want to visit the Durham Museum ( www.DurhamMuseum.org ), housed in Omaha’s restored Union Station with historic exhibits and an authentic soda fountain. Or, take a trip to the Lauritzen Gardens ( www.LauritzenGardens.org ), a 100-acre botanical garden with an exquisite Victorian garden, an educational children’s garden and model railroad garden. And don’t leave the city without a royal experience as you tour the 1903 Scottish-inspired Joslyn Castle ( www.JoslynCastle.com ).

St. Louis, Missouri:

St. Louis offers many free and affordable family attractions for all ages, making it the perfect Midwest vacation destination you’ll want to visit again and again!

A visit to the top of the Arch is a must for spectacular views, and an interactive museum at the Arch’s base tells the tale of westward expansion. Add to your fun with a Gateway Arch riverboat cruise ( www.GatewayArch.com ), where you can enjoy lunch or snacks while learning about St. Louis and the role of the Mississippi River in America’s history. Read our full review of the Gateway Arch experience .

At City Museum ( www.CityMuseum.org ), parents have as much fun as the kids! The museum transforms junkyard collections into gigantic labyrinths, jungle gyms and people-sized gerbil cages and mazes, creating a fantasy world meant for exploration, all housed inside, around and atop a 600,000-square-foot downtown shoe factory… now known as City Museum. Read our full review of City Museum . Also housed in the same building is the World Aquarium, a one-of-a-kind touch and feel aquatic experience.

The Magic House ( www.MagicHouse.org ) in St. Louis lives up to its name as one of the most magical children's museums in the nation. Children climb Jack’s Beanstalk, enjoy a hair-raising experience as they touch an electrically charged ball, stand inside a bubble, solve a mystery, explore a child-sized village and more. Read our full review of the Magic House .

Visit the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House ( www.ButterflyHouse.org ) to see insects and butterflies up close and personal. In the conservatory, you’ll encounter 2,000 butterflies in free flight among lush gardens of tropical flowers, a pond and waterfall. Read our full review of the Butterfly House.

Amana Colonies, Iowa:

For modern families wanting to experience a simpler time, the Amanas are a welcome retreat. You’ll step back in time with a visit to the Amana Colonies ( www.AmanaColonies.org ), a national historic landmark consisting of seven villages. Founded in Iowa in 1855, the Amanas are one of America’s longest-lived and largest religious communal societies, where the traditions of German craftsmanship are showcased at local shops and businesses.

Begin at the Amana Heritage Museum , where you’ll learn the story of the colonies and the culture through videos and exhibits. Then, shop at the High Amana General Store , a museum-operated 1858 village store. From shop to shop, witness firsthand the art of making quilts, lace, clocks, metal crafts, brooms, baskets, wine and more. Be sure to visit www.AmanaColonies.org and request a visitor’s guide for tips and calendars to plan your trip. Some shops are not open year-round or every day; weekends are best.

Wichita, Kansas:

You don’t have to go far to explore Egyptian mummies, discover dinosaur bones, learn about early civilizations, travel to the lands of conquistadores and experience history, all at the interactive and exciting Museum of World Treasures ( www.WorldTreasures.org ).

The Exploration Place ( www.Exploration.org ) makes science both educational and entertaining with traveling and permanent exhibits. Learn about nature, the human body, space, animal life and more. Our favorite attraction is the interactive castle where young children pretend to live and work, pumping bellows, making tools, cooking, blacksmithing, studying astronomy and  dressing up and jousting on a child-sized wooden horse.

For fun family dining, enjoy a Prairie Rose Chuckwagon Supper ( www.PrairieRoseChuckwagon.com ), with an all-you-can-eat dinner, wagon and train rides, free movies and a musical stage show.

If you’re looking for a little adventure this season, you don’t have to go far to create unforgettable family memories and have an adventure of a lifetime!

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, 8 best amtrak trips from kansas city.

Two Amtrak routes stop at the beautiful Kansas City Union Station, the regional Missouri River Runner and the long-distance Southwest Chief route. You can take a day trip or overnight trip on one of these trains to explore small towns, big cities and even a popular national park. To start planning your trip, here are the best Amtrak trips from Kansas City that don’t require a train transfer or middle-of-the-night travel.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page .

Jefferson City

Jefferson City, Missouri is an easy Amtrak day trip from Kansas City. Trip time is about three hours, with arrival before noon and a return train in the early evening. The city is in a beautiful location on the Missouri River near bike trails , and there is a charming downtown area and bike rentals in walking distance of the train station.

Top attractions include the former Missouri State Penitentiary , Missouri State Capital ( tours available), Missouri State Museum and the Jefferson Landing Historic Site . Complete your visit with a meal at one of the top restaurants and consider checking out the Salute to America festival in July and Oktoberfest in September.

Step off the train in Hermann, Missouri to experience old-world Europe. Settled by German immigrants, the town is about four hours away from Kansas City. Visit the  Deutschheim State Historic Site ,  Historic Hermann Museum  and  Hermann Farm Museum to learn about the area or explore the local wineries and tasting rooms . For more things to do, consider planning your trip around a special event such as Oktoberfest, Wine & Jazz Festival and the seasonal German Christmas market.

Inns and hotels are in walking distance of the Amtrak station, and Uber, Lyft, a trolley and other transportation services are available. If you don’t want to stay overnight, Hermann can technically be a quick day trip. You will have about five hours in the city before the return train assuming no delays.

About 5.5 hours away from Kansas City on the Missouri River Runner , St. Louis has big city amenities and unique landmarks. The Gateway Arch is the famous attraction, but there’s more to the city than that. Other things to check out include the City Museum , Missouri Botanical Garden , craft beer scene and the massive Forest Park , which is 1,300 acres and contains lakes, nature areas, museums and the St. Louis Zoo . For extra fun, you can plan your trip around a St. Louis Cardinal game , Taste of St. Louis , Fair Saint Louis and other major events .

Head to Chicago for museums , beaches , festivals , live music , shopping and more. The trip from Kansas City takes about 7.5 hours via the Southwest Chief. You’ll arrive in the afternoon at the historic Chicago Union Station and have the option to return to Kansas City the following day. Considering all the great restaurants , nightlife and attractions , you may want to stay two nights or more.

Many hotels are in the West Loop and the Loop near the Amtrak station, and slightly further away is River North and Streeterville , neighborhoods that have hotels near the Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier. In terms of transportation, there is a seasonal water taxi that stops near Union Station as well as Uber, Lyft, Divvy Bikes and CTA trains .

You can also transfer to many other Amtrak routes in Chicago. See the best Amtrak trips from Chicago to learn about other destinations you can visit.

Las Vegas (New Mexico)

To experience the Wild West, hop on the train in Kansas City and travel 14.5 hours to reach Las Vegas, New Mexico . The city has over 900 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and hasn’t changed much since Billy the Kid, Doc Holliday, Jesse James and other outlaws walked the streets. Be sure to check out the  Plaza Hotel  that opened in 1882 — Theodore Roosevelt visited here in 1899 as part of a  Rough Riders  reunion.

The  Castaneda Hotel , which was formerly a  Harvey House  for railroad passengers, is next to the Amtrak station if you are looking for historic (and convenient) place to stay. Other hotels, restaurants and shops are also in walking distance. Plan to stay in Las Vegas at least one night.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque , New Mexico is a destination full of outdoor and cultural activities. Top attractions include  Old Town ,  Indian Pueblo Cultural Center ,  National Museum of Nuclear Science  and the  Petroglyph National Monument . There’s also a  zoo ,  botanic garden and a Breaking Bad tour to check out.

Consider planning your trip around the  Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , which is a top event in the fall. The train takes about 18 hours from Kansas City, but thanks to the nearby airport , you can fly back to Kansas City if you’d rather not take the train back.

Flagstaff is a walkable city on Route 66 that is full of art galleries and restaurants . The first Dark Sky City in the United States, Flagstaff is also an amazing place for stargazing . Plus, the Grand Canyon , Antelope Canyon , Walnut Canyon National Monument and the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort are nearby for outdoor recreation and sightseeing.

You can rent a car in town ( Budget is closest to the Amtrak station and provides pick-up service), but due to the evening arrival in Flagstaff, you may need to wait until the following morning to get your car. There are also many Flagstaff tours that provide transportation to major attractions, and rideshare services are options for getting around town.

Unless you want to travel in the middle of the night, we recommend getting on the westbound train to California after your stay in Flagstaff. In California you can fly back to Kansas City from several airports, or return via the Southwest Chief after a brief daytime stay in Riverside, Fullerton or Los Angeles. You’ll arrive in these cities in the morning and the eastbound train departs early evening.

Los Angeles

For a long-distance train vacation, travel to Los Angeles on the Southwest Chief. You’ll travel through mountains and deserts on this 35-hour trip and arrive at the historic Los Angeles Union Station in the morning. There’s plenty to see and do in the city, including the Getty Center , Griffith Observatory , Universal Studios , Hollywood Sign and the Santa Monica Pier .

Hollywood , West Hollywood , Beverly Hills , Santa Monica and Venice Beach are popular areas for lodging. However, you can technically explore the city for a few hours and get back on the train same day for the trip home. There are also many flights at nearby airports, or consider continuing your train trip with a transfer to the Pacific Surfliner (service to San Diego) or the Coast Starlight .

More Information

• Amtrak stations in Missouri
• Best Amtrak trips from Chicago
• 7 amazing Amtrak trips out West
• Amtrak’s 15 long-distance trains and the places they go

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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 !

Featured Products & Activities

11 Family-Friendly Day Trips from Kansas City

Straddling the border of Kansas and Missouri , Kansas City is a Midwest city along the Missouri River renowned for its barbecue, jazz heritage. It is the largest city in the state of Missouri.

The larger metropolitan area of Kansas City, Missouri , spans 319.03 square miles in the county seats of Jackson County, along with other major Missouri cities of Blue Springs and Lee's Summit and the Kansas cities of Overland Park, Kansas City, and Olathe.

11 Family-Friendly Day Trips from Kansas City, Missouri

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While Kansas City is filled with activities, attractions, and fun family destinations, there are also many exciting day trips in the area to discover. If you are looking for a fun weekend getaway or trip ideas to take with the family outside of the city, you are in luck! We have curated a list of the best day trips to take from Kansas City that are perfect for the entire family.

From small towns with a significant history to half-hour drives that make for great day trips to Civil War history museums for the history buff in the family to iconic spots in North America's past, the Kansas City region has a family-friendly day trip for you.

1. St. Louis

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A 5-hour drive east of Kansas City lies the city of St. Louis, a hub for outdoor activities , beautiful parks, biking along nature trails, and eating delicious barbecues. The town sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. It is home to the incredible Missouri Botanical Garden, a must-see for kids and families.

2. Lawrence

Situated in Douglas County, just 40 minutes from the city, Lawrence is a vibrant college town with a beautiful live music scene and a thriving population of young folks attending the University of Kansas. Lawrence is home to Clinton Lake State Park, where people enjoy a marina, sports fields, picnic areas, and camping.

3. Watkins Woolen Mill State Park

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Just over a half-hour drive from the city, Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site is a proper visit to the area's history. This historic site features a building and a three-story woolen mill that has been around since the 1870s. History buffs and their children can go to the visitor center, which provides interesting information about the Watkins family and the state park, as well as miles of hiking trails to meander on.

4. Atchison

Related content, 8 family-friendly day trips from fort worth, texas, day trips from chicago: 11 family-friendly ideas near the windy city, 7 family-friendly day trips from little rock, arkansas.

Located on the Kansas/Missouri border on the river in Kansas, Atchison is a sure bet for a fun hour-long road trip for the family. Known for being the home of Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly across the entire Atlantic Ocean. Take the kids to see the Birthplace Museum, the Earthwork hillside portrait, and the yearly Amelia Earhart Festival. After exploring the history museums, you can have a day of fun in the sun at Jackson Park and Warnock Lake.

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RELATED: Fort Snelling State Park: Rich History & Family-Friendly Activities

A small town 40 minutes northwest of KCMO, Weston offers a fun day trip idea for families. Weston is famous for Green Dirt Farm, where you book a tour to check out the farm, the milking, and cheese-making process, and taste the farm's creation at the retail shop. Adults can enjoy a beverage at the Weston Brewing Company, and the kids can enjoy a soda! Take a stroll down Main Street to shop, dine, and enjoy the small-town charm.

6. Bentonville, Arkansas

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Nestled just over 3 hours south of Kansas City, Bentonville , Arkansas, is a great place to take the kids for a weekend getaway. Discover the magic of the Ozarks or enjoy delicious eats downtown. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a beautiful place to take the kids. It is also enjoyable for the adults in the group.

7. St. Joseph

St. Joseph lies an hour north of the city and is home to two very famous icons, Jesse James and the Pony Express. An old Wild West outpost and frontier town and the birthplace of rapper Eminem, St. Joseph is a sure bet for a day trip from Kansas City. There are 26 miles of the parkway for biking and hiking, as well as the Pony Express Museum, where you can ride a horse and explore 150-year-old stables.

8. Lake of the Ozarks

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Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most fun family vacation ideas, just 2.5 hours from the city. This fantastic lake offers the prime opportunity for a weekend getaway or a great day trip from boating to nightlife to spas to lazy days on the water.

9. Omaha, Nebraska

Almost three hours away in Nebraska, Omaha provides a plethora of activities for the kids! From the Joslyn Art Museum to tubing the Elkhorn River to Lauritzen Gardens to a family-friendly show at the Rose Theater, Omaha is the prime stop for an escape from the city. Another terrific idea is to take a tour of the city's gourmet ice cream shops, including Coneflower Creamery and Ted & Wally's.

10. Powell Gardens

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This one may be just outside of downtown Kansas City, but we are still adding it to our list as a fun day trip for kids. These famous botanical gardens feature a wide array of activities specifically catered to the youth of the city.

11. Excelsior Springs

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Nestled just a half-hour outside of town, Excelsior Springs has presented an exciting tourist attraction since its inception as a 19th-century spa resort town. Visit the Art deco-style Hall of Waters, the historic Elms Hotel, and spend a day shopping on the kid-friendly streets. Excelsior Springs sits close to Watkins Mill State Park and the Worlds of Fun amusement park, ideal for kids looking to have some fun!

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12 Great Road Trips From Kansas City

As someone who’s lived in Kansas City for nearly 20 years, I love getting in the car and driving to see what I find. Day trips are the perfect way to get out and still sleep in your own bed. I feel like it’s easy to spend another weekend at home but if you are looking for a bit of an adventure, this post is for you. These road trips from Kansas City have a little something for everyone. You can get any of them done in a day, or stay longer if you want. Let’s hit the road!

D i sclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Quick KC road trip picks

Best for shopping

Lawrence, Kansas

• Head straight for Mass Street to shop at locally-owned boutiques
• Update your TBR list at The Raven Book Store or The Dusty Bookshelf
• Refuel at Free State Brewing Co.
• Stay at the historic Eldridge Hotel

Best for families

Wichita, Kansas

• Visit popular attractions like Exploration Place and Botanica Wichita
• Catch the nightly free show on the river featuring The Keeper of the Plains
• Get up close to amazing animals at Tanganyika Wildlife Park

Best for romance

Excelsior Springs , Missouri

• Sample wine at nearby Van Till Family Farm Winery or beer at Dubious Claims Brewing Co.
• Stay at the historic hotel, The Elms Hotel & Spa
• Splurge on a massage at The Elms

Kansas City Day Trips

Bonner Springs, Kansas

Located among gentle hills and the Kansas River, you’ll find this small but action-packed town. Home to the Annual Renaissance Festival , a popular amphitheater for nationally touring bands, and the National Agricultural Hall of Fame , you will have no problem spending a day or a weekend here.

If you like the outdoors, there are also parks to explore or you could try zip lining .

Tip : One of my favorite places to visit in Bonner Springs is the Moon Marble Factory . They have demonstrations where you can watch them blow marbles and they have one of the best toy stores around.

Highest rated hotel : Comfort Inn Bonner Springs

Distance from Kansas City : 22 miles

Excelsior Springs, Missouri

We spent our first anniversary at The Elms Hotel and Spa , where Harry S. Truman spent the night after the 1948 election. (He went to bed thinking he’d lost his re-election and was awoken to the good news.)

The 125-year old hotel is what draws a lot of people to Excelsior Springs but there’s more to see. From two local theaters to a quaint downtown shopping area, you will get a sense of the past and the present when you visit.

Tip : The Hall of Waters is a museum that sits on the site where the first natural spring was found in the area in the 1880s. In the 1890s the town wanted to find a way to pipe all the spring water into one location. The two-story solarium was used for healing purposes and features the world’s longest water bar.

Highest rated hotel : The Elms Hotel & Spa

Distance from Kansas City : 28 miles

Weston, Missouri

For a town of less than 2,000 people, Weston has made itself into a destination. They put on several annual festivals (celebrating apples and Irish heritage) and have some really unique businesses. While the town is surrounded by farms, there are also plenty of artisans in town. They have a brewery , several wineries, and even a tobacconist that rolls locally grown tobacco into cigars.

Tip : If you like cheese, make your way to Green Dirt Farm . They produce sheep’s milk cheeses and offer tours and tastings. You’ll find many restaurants around the greater Kansas City area serving Green Dirt Farm products.

Highest rated hotel (near Weston) : TownePlace Suites by Marriott Leavenworth

Distance from Kansas City : 33 miles

Lawrence has a long and interesting history that has created this liberal college town into what it is today. You can learn all about Lawrence history -- like Quantrill’s 1863 raid and the city's role in the Civil War -- at Watkins Museum or take a self-guided tour along the Santa Fe and Oregon trails that run through the city.

All the Jayhawk fans would revolt if I failed to mention that Lawrence is also the home to the University of Kansas (KU).

Tip : If you are looking for a foodie experience, Lawrence has some top-notch restaurants and bars. (Good enough that Kansas Citians think nothing of driving out for dinner.) I would recommend Free State Brewery and drinks at John Brown’s Underground .

Highest rated hotel : Best Western Plus West Lawrence

Distance from Kansas City : 40 miles

Ottawa, Kansas

Built on the land of the Ottawa tribe of Indians, and now the home to Ottawa University, this town straddles the Marais Des Cygnes River. The river plagued the area with a series of major floods between 1844-1951 until the Army Corps of Engineers stepped in to build a series of levees.

You can learn more about the history of the town at the Old Depot Museum which is located on the Prairie Spirit Trail . The 52-mile trail is built on a former railbed and can be biked or hiked.

Highest rated hotel : Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Ottawa

Tip : Movie buffs will find a real gem in Ottawa--the oldest operating cinema in the world, by two days. Plaza 1907 beat out a theater in Denmark when they applied to the Guinness World Records in June 2017.

Distance from Kansas City : 53 miles

St. Joseph, Missouri

St. Joseph (or just St. Joe to locals) is the birthplace of rapper Eminem and is the final resting place of outlaw Jesse James, after he was killed at the age of 34 in his St. Joseph home .

The town lies on the shores of the Missouri River and was one of two endpoints of the Pony Express. You’ll find a museum covering the history of this short-lived but infamous attempt at rural mail delivery and the extraordinary Patee House Museum .

If you're an adventurous type, you can also spend time at St. Joe State Park , one of only two off-road vehicle parks in Missouri.

Tip : If you are of a certain generation when the nightly news were an anchor of your day, the Walter Cronkite Memorial should be on your list. Found on the campus of Missouri Western State University, the Memorial offers tours and even a replica of the newsroom from which Cronkite broadcast the news in the late 1960s to early 1970s.

Highest rated hotel : Vineyard Mansion B&B

Distance from Kansas City : 56 miles

La Cygne, Kansas

Another riverfront town, you will find most of the notable activities in La Cygne outdoors. Many Kansas Citians first visit La Cygne through day trips or camping at the Wildwood Outdoor Education Center. If you’re beyond your ropes course days, grab your clubs and head to Deer Trace Golf Course , an 18-hole course with a driving range.

Tip : Civil War buffs may be interested to know that La Cygne was the site of the last important battle fought in Kansas. Mine Creek was the largest cavalry battle west of the Mississippi and the grounds are open to visitors.

Distance from Kansas City : 62 miles

Topeka, Kansas

Topeka is the capital of Kansas and home to roughly 125K people and one of America's Best Chilis . The city was also home to the Evil Knievel museum , which is notable because he is not from Topeka. One of the founders of the museum saw him perform as a 4-year old boy and became a life-long fan.

Tip : Topeka is well-known for being the place where school segregation was finally declared unconstitutional in a landmark Supreme Court case . You can visit the National Historic Site of Brown v. Board of Education both in-person and virtually.

Highest rated hotel : Cyrus Hotel

Distance from Kansas City : 63 miles

Hamilton, Missouri

Despite being a town of less than 1.5 square miles in size, Hamilton is a town with some notable history and places to visit. If you’re a quilter, you know about Hamilton. It’s become a destination location since the Missouri Star Quilt Co. took off. The family behind the company has invested and transformed the town.

Due to the popularity of the quilt shop and jobs created by the online business, some good restaurants have opened.

Tip : James Cash Penney, better known as J.C. Penney, was born in Hamilton, MO. You can visit a delightful little museum in his honor on the main street in town.

Highest rated hotel : Dawson Retreats

Distance from Kansas City : 64 miles

Sedalia, Missouri

Home to the Missouri State Fair and the Scott Joplin Ragtime Festival (Maple Leaf Rag was named after a saloon in town), Sedalia makes a great day trip!

In addition to the fairgrounds, you’ll find 13 other places on the National Register of Historic Places including several prominent homes and hotels. The city is also home to Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site .

Tip : Don’t miss the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art when you visit. A retired radiologist, Dr. Harold F. Daum donated his 300-piece art collection and funding to build the museum, which opened in 2002. The collection features works by a range of artists from Andy Warhol to Helen Frankenthaler and Ansel Adams.

Highest rated hotel : Hotel Bothwell Sedalia Central District

Distance from Kansas City : 89 miles

West Mineral, Kansas

West Mineral was established, and named, because of the coal found there. In order to mine the coal they used incredibly large equipment including the largest electric shovel in the world, nicknamed Big Brutus . Standing 16 stories tall, it’s something you have to see.

Tip : The town has less than 200 people, so definitely plan to add on another city to your day trip. I recommend choosing from this itinerary featuring southeastern Kansas attractions .

Distance from Kansas City : 142 miles

Wichita is a large city that's great for families to explore, with a collection of attractions all fairly near each other: Botanica Wichita, the city's botanical gardens; Wichita Art Museum ; and the science center, Exploration Place .

Don't skip seeing the free, nightly outdoor show on the river featuring The Keeper of the Plains .

Tip : Wichita is a great trip from Kansas City, so definitely give yourself at least two days to explore, including Tanganyika Wildlife Park, located outside of Wichita .

Highest rated hotel : Homewood Suites by Hilton at The Waterfront

Distance from Kansas City : 200 miles

Two of the most important things about any road trip are the snacks and the tunes. Plan ahead with this list of essential road trip snacks and then plan your playlist. Happy trails!

About the guest blogger

Jenn Beard is the founder of Cocktails Away —a collection of adventures in pursuit of a great drink, a quality spirit, a unique ingredient, and the places they come from . When not traveling, she lives in Kansas City. Check out her blog for mouthwatering recipes and insider tips on DIY bartending and cocktail culture or travel to bars around the world at @cocktailsaway .

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Val - Corn, Beans, Pigs & Kids

Wednesday 7th of July 2021

This is great and exactly what I needed! We are headed to Kansas City next month and are planning on traveling in and around the area!

What luck! I hope you have a good trip.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

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Home » North America » USA » 10 Amazing Day Trips to Take from Kansas City | 2024

10 Amazing Day Trips to Take from Kansas City | 2024

Kansas City sits on the border between Missouri and Kansas, and has flown under the radar for a while. It is one of the most underrated cities in America. It’s one of those spots that will take you by surprise, offering a lot of local culture, a fascinating art scene, and world-class experiences for a fraction of the price you would pay in other US cities.

Just like any city, it’s to break away from the hustle and bustle and explore a bit of the surrounding areas. Taking a day trip from Kansas City is a great way to experience ranch lands and lesser-known Midwestern regions.

Check out our favorite day trips for an epic time!

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Getting Around Kansas City, and Beyond

Half-day trips in kansas city, full-day trips in kansas city, final thoughts on day trips from kansas city.

Staying in Kansas City is not something the average US visitor does. With a vast history and a thriving Jazz music scene, its worth a visit.

The city has a relatively small city center, making it easy to walk around once you’re in the heart of downtown. Exploring neighborhoods on foot is pretty common. Crossroads Arts District, Power & Light District, Garment District, and River Market are all pedestrian friendly. That being said, the city is a car-dominated location.

Renting a car is the most popular way to get around and take some Kansas City day trips. All the usual car rental companies can be found, with the largest branches located at the Kansas City International Airport and near the Amtrak Union Station. Parking is typically free and easy to find, which is almost unheard of in other cities.

Kansas City also has an extensive public transportation network. The local buses are called RideKC and are reliable, on time, and operate extensive routes around downtown. A one-way fare will cost you about $1.50 and can be purchased using cash on the bus. Alternatively, you could buy a $3-day pass for unlimited rides or purchase a MetroCard that you can top up as you go.

One of the best ways to get around downtown and the city center is on the Kansas City Streetcar. It is totally free to use and runs from the Crown Center to the River Market District. It makes 16 stops over the two miles, operating from 6am to 12am, with limited hours on weekends.

Here are some of my favorite half-day trips to take from Kansas City. From horse riding adventures on local ranches, to visiting small historical towns and everything in between, there’s something for everyone.

Are you ready to get to know this hidden gem a bit better?

Holden, MO 

Holden is a small town about fifty miles from Kansas City, and is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day trip away from the city. There are no regular bus routes from Kansas City to Holden, so your best bet would be to rent a car and make the hour journey on your own steam. 

The old town, that was built in 1857 to house Pacific Railroad builders, has a super small-town vibe and charming atmosphere. It’s one of those places where all the locals know each other personally.

To get your trip started, head over to the main street where you’ll find a bunch of cozy eateries, local products, and boutique shops.

If you’re looking for some fresh air and sunshine, Holden City Park and Holden Downtown Park are great places to go for a low-key picnic with your family. Feel free to pick up some fresh produce in town before settling at the park for a slow afternoon.

There’s also a 380-acre lake in Holden, which really is a beautiful spot to explore on a sunny day. You’ll find anglers and picnicking families dotted around the lake on weekends.

Suggested trips: Alpaca Picnic

LaCygne, KS

LaCygne is a small city in Linn County, about an hour south of Kansas City. Its odd name comes from the river that runs through the town, known as the Marais des Cygnes River. Although it’s classified as a city, LaCygne is really a small town with one main street. Only about 1000 people live there!

Why is it worth a half-day trip, you ask? Well, LaCygne lies in one of the most beautiful valleys in the area, making it the perfect spot for hiking, walking, and camping. Not only is the city built on the banks of a river, but it’s also home to a lake, which is a popular place to fish, do outdoor exercise, picnic, and just get a bit of fresh air.

I would highly recommend taking a stroll through the historic downtown. The buildings on the main street were built in the early 1800s and look like a classic western film set – ideal for a photo opportunity! The LaCygne Historical Society is open on weekend afternoons, and the tour guides will be happy to tell you a bit more about the history of their hometown.

Suggested trips: Isinglass Estate Wine and Ride

Lawrence, KS 

Lawrence is a small city just east of Kansas City that has been labeled as one of the most vibrant centers for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the Midwest. If you drive yourself, it will only take you about 45 minutes.

But it wasn’t always a hotspot for food and culture. In fact, this town was the location of a heartbreaking Civil War event. You can learn more about this battle through the carefully curated exhibits at the Watkins Museum of History and the Wakarusa River Valley Heritage Museum.

Massachusetts Street (locally known as ‘Mass’), has even been called one of the most beautiful main streets in the USA. Take a stroll down this wide main street which is lined with lush trees and period buildings to get a real taste of the city. Of course, you’ll be able to pick and choose from some of the city’s best eateries along this road.

Suggested trips: Lawrence Scavenger Hunt

Just a quick hour’s drive from Kansas City, you’ll find the Kansas State Capital of Topeka. Although this city is much smaller than Kansas City, it’s jam-packed with interesting things to see and do.

I think Topeka is a great destination for a weekend away from the city, but it’s also easily done in a day trip. It is even connected with Kansas City via railway.

One of the most popular things to do is to tour the State Capitol, which is a historic collection of buildings with a wealth of history. If art and culture are more your speed, the Mulvane Art Museum is definitely worth a visit. It is home to some incredible local and international artworks. The Children’s Discovery Center is a crowd favorite that has interactive exhibits perfect for young kids.

Once you’ve got a good dose of culture and history, head to the banks of Lake Shawnee for some fresh air. There are loads of picnic spots and walking trails open to the public. In fact, over a million people visit this gorgeous lake each year to play golf, ball games, fish, and camp.

Suggested trips : Scavenger Hunt Experience in Topeka

There are a ton of things to do in Kansas City , but it’s always fun to travel outside and see more of what the region has to offer. These full day trips in Kansas City are perfect for getting out and exploring.

The Missouri River, MO

The Missouri River runs directly through Kansas City. As a matter of fact, it’s the longest river in the States, running all the way from the Rocky Mountains to the Mississippi River 2341 miles away. Aside from having a super fascinating archeological history and supporting generations of indigenous populations, the river is one of the most beautiful places to visit for a day trip in Kansas City.

Of course, you could simply visit the section of the river that runs through the city. But your best bet would be to venture out to a less populated area and explore the more rural parts of the Missouri River.

Some of the most popular riverside activities include bird watching, boating, camping, canoeing and kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking. 

Suggested trips: Katy Trail River Route Adventure

Lake Jacomo, MO 

Lake Jacomo is a great place to spend a day if you don’t feel like heading too far out of the city. It’s only a 25-minute drive from downtown. The beautiful lake spans 970 acres, and sits in the heart of Fleming Park.

For boat lovers and sailors, this is the place to be in Missouri! There is a limit on the amount of horsepower you can use on a boat, which makes Lake Jacomo one of the more peaceful lakes to visit. 

If you’re more interested in history than boating, visit the Missouri Town 1855 for a ‘step back in time’ experience. This whole town is basically a living museum, with over 25 different buildings housing historical tools and furniture set exactly how it used to be in the mid-1800s. 

Base yourself around Lake Jacomo for a more quiet Kansas City experience, which is only a short drive from the city center. Why not rent this artsy home for the best of both worlds.

How about spending a day exploring one of Kansas’s most historic cities? Ottawa is just a short hours drive away, and is a top spot for a day trip from Kansas City. Founded in the 1800s, it has a rich past rooted in Civil War and Native American history.

The best way to explore the city is on foot, admiring the exquisite 19th and 20th-century architecture along the main street of the town. Not only is downtown the perfect setting for a picturesque stroll, but it’s where you’ll find some great boutique shops and restaurants.

If you prefer a bit more structure, there are some great museums that can kick start your adventures. I recommend starting at the Old Depot Museum which visually recreates moments in history from over a century ago. You’ll be able to see what an old school, dentist’s office, and general store looked like when the city was first founded.

Stockton, MO

Right in the heart of Missouri’s Cedar County, Stockton is a small city that is home to the Stockton State Park. The area is only a two hour drive south, a super easy getaway.

Stockton Lake, located in the park, is a bunch of bodies of water that make up a vast lake. It’s a local favorite for sailing enthusiasts and kayakers, and is also known for being one of the most beautiful areas for hiking and rock climbing in the area.

There’s a marina and a beach, which are the perfect spots to relax and grab a local meal on your day trip from Kansas City.

Suggested trips: Tribal Medicine Bag Workshop

Powell Gardens, MO

Powell Gardens are located just forty five minutes east of Kansas City. I love this spot – you’ve gotta spend a full day exploring the gardens and lounging around in the sun.

The gardens are beautifully designed with eight themed display gardens, different exhibitions, and attractive architecture. If you want to get your steps in, there’s a three-mile nature trail that runs through the 175 acres worth of garden.

After your walk you can dig into some delicious local food at one of the park restaurants, which are prepared using homegrown ingredients from the garden.

The gardens are typically open from 9am to 5pm, and charge an admission fee of $10 for one adult and $4 for kids.

You could choose to stay near the gardens in this charming cottage , which is only a short drive back into the city center.

Saint Joseph, MO 

St. Joseph is a city with a unique history located just 50 miles north of Kansas City. It’s most well known for being the home of train and bank robber, outlaw, and infamous guerilla Jesse James.

It’s a relatively large city that sees over 70 passenger trains run through it daily on its eleven railroads. No wonder Jesse James got into the train robbing industry!

The town was established in the early 18th century as a popular trading post. But it wasn’t until the California gold rush that St. Joseph grew to be what it is today.

Naturally, the city is packed with historical buildings and unique sites. The Patee House Museum is a beautiful old building that was made famous for being the headquarters for the infamous Pony Express. There are tons of old cars, trains, carousels, and other western artifacts to see. 

If you want to see some of the beautiful period homes, head to the Museum Hill Historic District. You could even spend a night here, and stay in a historic vineyard mansion carriage house .

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget Your Kansas City Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Kansas City can keep you busy for a good week. But, it’s getting out of the city and having some day trips from Kansas City that will be the best bits of your stay. 

My favorite trip from this list would have to be a day in Powell Gardens. It’s not too far from the city and is a beautiful spot for both a relaxing, or an adventurous trip. Hopefully, one of the day trips above has caught your eye, and you’ll be enjoying a Midwestern adventure around Kansas City soon!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Lake of the Ozarks: A Kansas City Weekend Getaway

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I was hosted by Getaway House . All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

I’m always surprised by just how much the scenery can change if you drive an hour or two outside of the city. Kansas City, and its proximity to the Ozarks, are a perfect example of this. During a recent road trip in Missouri, my boyfriend Jacob and I set out to uncover some unique things to do in the Lake of the Ozarks, particularly for couples looking for a romantic, adventurous weekend getaway from Kansas City. 

The show Ozark has given this area an interesting rap in pop culture, to say the least. When we visited the Lake of the Ozarks, I actually hadn’t seen the show yet! Being the sucker for state and national parks that I am, I was drawn to the area because of the parks in the area, and I knew there had to be tons of beauty here. Especially if the Lake of the Ozarks attracts over 5 million visitors a year! 

While many think of the Lake of the Ozarks solely as a family destination or a boating / fishing destination for midwesterners, what I found was that the Ozarks has something to offer for couples and adventure seekers, too – yes, even if you don’t own a boat! 

You just have to know where to look. 

Read on for my recommendations for six things to do in the Lake of the Ozarks on a weekend trip from Kansas City!

Things to Do in the Lake of the Ozarks: Your Kansas City Weekend Getaway

1. go glamping in the ozark highlands.

Boaters and families may want to stay close to the action down in Osage Beach. But, if you’re in search of a romantic getaway near Kansas City, you’ll want to head straight to the Ozark Highlands. 

The ultra-popular Getaway House recently launched a brand new location perfect for a quick escape from Kansas City . If you haven’t heard of Getaway House, check out my full review of the Getaway House cabin concept here . 

With your own personal cabin away from the hustle and bustle, tucked in amongst the trees, you’ll have the perfect launching-off point for your weekend getaway. The Ozark Highlands are a bit removed from everything else – you’re looking at about 45 minutes to an hour and a half to the Osage Beach area – but trust me, it’s worth it.

But, if you can’t be bothered to drive any further than this, that’s fine too. The cabins offer fire pits, kitchens, full bathrooms, books, a radio, and s’mores so you and a friend or significant other can unplug and enjoy.

This glamping location is one of the newest things to do in the Ozarks, and by far one of the most unique!

2. Explore the Lake of the Ozarks State Park by Jetski or Pontoon Boat

Do you need to have a boat to enjoy the Lake of the Ozarks? Absolutely not. 

In fact, there are so many places to rent watersports equipment, especially near Osage Beach.

Two of the most popular, affordable, and easiest recreational watersports rentals you’ll find are:

• Pontoon Boats: Flat, buoyant boats that are popular for lake recreation. This was my first time seeing a pontoon boat, and they looked pretty fun – some had lounge areas, sofas, and even bars. 
• Jetskis: Jetskis and waverunners are very popular things to do at the Lake of the Ozarks! Rent your own, or share one with your partner to save money. Jetskis can be rented by the hour all the way up to a full day. Ultimately, we found 2-3 hours on the water to be the perfect amount of time.

In order to take a jetski or pontoon boat out on the water, you’ll need to either present a boating license or obtain a temporary Missouri boating license onsite using this link . The process takes about 10 minutes and costs just $9, with your license becoming valid for 7 days.

Prefer to just enjoy instead of worrying about maneuvering out on the water? You can charter a powerboat or even a yacht at the Lake of the Ozarks! It’ll be more expensive, but in exchange you’ll have a skilled captain with you that can show you around. 

When you get your rental, you’ll also receive a map of the Lake of the Ozarks and instructions on how to get around.

Jacob and I opted for a jetski from The Getaway Watercraft Rentals and toured around the massive lakeside houses before making our way to Lake of the Ozarks State Park. 

And let me tell you – Lake of the Ozarks State Park is beautiful! From the water, you can easily see the surroundings change from developed Osage Beach, to unspoiled state park. Here, even the water seems bluer, and the dense spread of woodlands reflecting the sunlight offers up a fairy-like allure. I didn’t know what to expect, and I was both shocked and thrilled by Missouri’s beauty.  

We did also try to visit the legendary Party Cove, but there wasn’t much going on. Our weekend getaway from Kansas City was early in May, right before peak summer season at the lake begins, which is probably why the lake was relatively calm for a Sunday afternoon.

3. Find the Castle at Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Did you know? A state park with a towering stone castle hides not far from Osage Beach! In fact, Conde Nast Traveler named Ha Ha Tonka State Park the most spectacular state park in all of Missouri.

The main and most unique draw of Ha Ha Tonka State Park is the castle ruins. Just over a century ago, a Kansas City businessman by the name of Robert McClure Snyder dreamed of constructing a castle here on a high cliff overlooking the Niagara Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks, but died in a car crash just a year after construction began. His sons completed the project in his name, and opened it as a hotel in the 20s only to be immediately hit by the Great Depression. Two short decades later, the structure caught fire and fell into disrepair. Despite the tragic beginnings, today, the frame of this European-meets-American Gothic structure remains a unique and impressive landmark with dramatic views. 

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is also home to over 15 miles of hiking trails, and several fascinating geological features, like natural bridges, sinkholes, and caves. 

After visiting the castle, we explored Ha Ha Tonka’s Natural Bridge and wandered some of the state park’s many well-marked trails. Ha Ha Tonka – which means ‘laughing water’ in Osage Indian – is also home to the spectacular Ha Ha Tonka Spring. Unfortunately, a storm passed through Missouri right before our Ozarks weekend getaway, so the water was pretty murky when we visited. But normally, it’s supposed to be a resplendent sapphire blue!

4. Go Hiking Around the Lake of the Ozarks

Beyond the water activities, hiking is one of the coolest things to do in the Lake of the Ozarks. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is just one of the many places you can go to experience the Ozarks’ woodlands and lake vistas. 

Here are some great places to go hiking in the Ozarks! 

• Castle Trail (0.8 mi) 
• Devil’s Kitchen Trail (1.3 mi) 
• Island Trail (0.9 mi) 
• Spring Trail (1.4 mi) 
• Rocky Top Trail (2.2 mi) 
• Hidden Springs Trail (2.5 mi) 
• Trail of the Four Winds (4 – 11 mi) 
• Cedar Bluff Trail (2.1 mi) 
• Indian Point Trail (3.2 mi) 
• Bluff Ridge Trail (1.9 mi) 
• 1000th Mile Trail (0.9 mi)

Wherever you go, I recommend packing bug spray, sunscreen, and long pants in the summer months when hiking in the Lake of the Ozarks!

5. Explore Missouri’s Underground

Did you know that Missouri is known as the Cave State? Missouri features a distinctive karst ecosystem, and its porous limestone and dolomite landscapes make for the perfect environment for caves, springs, sinkholes, and natural bridges to form over the centuries.

In fact, Missouri is home to somewhere close to 7,000 known, mapped caves! Are there caves in the Lake of the Ozarks? You bet! Approximately 300 of these caves can be found in the areas surrounding the lake. Of these, four are considered ‘show caves,’ meaning they are easy to visit, and are outfitted with lights, walkways, and hand rails for safe viewing. 

Exploring the caves is certainly one of the most unique things to do in the Lake of the Ozarks.

Here are the four places you can easily see caves in the area: 

• Jacob’s Cave
• Bridal Cave
• Stark Caverns
• Ozark Caverns

6. Enjoy a Pool or a Patio with a View

Of course, even an active Kansas City weekend getaway needs some downtime. Staying at the Getaway House Ozark Highlands , we found it to be an easy and romantic location for unwinding and enjoying each other’s company. But what do you do when you’re closer to the action, near Osage Beach, and looking to have a good time? 

Fortunately, the Ozarks has tons of restaurants and bars with lake views! Some of these are more chill, but most are set up for a party – perfect for those who prefer to be on land vs out on the water. The best part? Some Ozarks hotspots even have pools! 

Here are some waterfront Ozarks restaurants and bars with a view (places with pools indicated by an *):

• Dog Days Bar & Grill *
• Baxter’s Lakeside Grill
• Shawnee Bluff Winery * 

If you only have two nights on your weekend getaway, I recommend planning to spend one sunset back at your Getaway House cabin , and one sunset here on the lake. No matter which Ozarks lake view you choose, sunset will no doubt make for a  sweet moment to close out your romantic getaway near Kansas City. 

Are you considering a weekend getaway in the Lake of the Ozarks? Tell me your plans in the comments!

Read This Next:

• My Review of The Getaway House: A Tiny Cabin For Urban Dwellers

Pin For Later:

Hey there! I’m Rachel, a travel writer and a full-time advertising / marketing expert. In 2019, I traveled more than 25 times while working 9 to 5, and since then I’ve committed myself to living a more adventurous life, even if it means bringing my laptop along for the ride. Are you hungry to travel more, but overwhelmed with how to juggle work and play? You’ve come to the right place!

Recent Adventures:

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• Updated on: June 20, 2022

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What does a cabin cost per night and how much is a pontoon boat rental for a day?

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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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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

Road Trip Packing List

Put packing for your road trip on auto-pilot with this free packing list.

Please check your email for your copy of the ultimate road trip packing list. 

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! 

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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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16 Best Midwest Road Trips – Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: May 25, 2020  - Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahhh, the Midwest. Vast landscapes with beautiful scenery, the ability to connect with nature and fun attractions. One of the best ways to explore the middle of the USA is with a Midwest road trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For those of us who live here, we know there’s so much to offer. Our waving grasses with rolling hills make for beautiful, peaceful sunsets. Gorgeous lakes simply begged to be explored.

Our cities each have something unique to offer, and mix that with Midwest charm, it makes for a great place for a road trip!

Midwest road trip ideas

I’ve explored many places across the Midwest, but I haven’t covered it all. So I turned to other experts to help me out to create this list of best Midwest road trips!

Here’s a bunch of Midwest road trip ideas, ranging from 2 days to 10. From outdoorsy to artsy, there’s truly something for everyone in the Midwest!

List of Midwestern States

But before we dive in, let’s clarify the states that cover the Midwest to help you plan your trip:

• Indiana (IN)
• Illinois (IL)
• Missouri (MO)
• Kansas (KS)
• Nebraska (NE)
• South Dakota (SD)
• North Dakota (ND)
• Minnesota (MN)
• Wisconsin (WI)
• Michigan (MI)

Looking for more Midwest adventures? Check out these 16 trails – the best hiking in the Midwest !

Ready to hit the road? Here’s the best Midwest road trips

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

The Black Hills in South Dakota is one of the best places for a road trip in the Midwest.  There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend months here, but for a shorter trip, 7-10 days would be great.

Rapid City is probably the best place to fly in and out of for a Black Hills trip. I would start with a couple of days in Badlands National Park .  Spend the night in Wall, visit Wall Drug and the Badlands from here, then head over to Wind Cave National Park.

Spend a night or 2 in Hot Springs to easily access the park where you can do some hiking, look for bison, and do a cave tour. Make a stop at the Mammoth site while you’re here, too.

Finally, head to Keystone for a few days. This is the perfect base for exploring the Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park area. 

Some of the must-do activities here are visiting Mount Rushmore (of course), driving Iron Mountain Road , driving the Needles Highway, driving the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, hiking Cathedral Spires Trail, and relaxing at Sylvan Lake. If you want a little side trip, you can easily visit Devils Tower in Wyoming, too.  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri should be on any midwest road trip. This journey is part of Route 66, one of the original highways in the United States. Route 66 was the primary route for people wishing to move west. Opt to spend one day driving this four and a half-hour drive, or break it up and spend the night in Springfield, Illinois.  

For this journey, start in Chicago. Make sure to spend at least 3 days in Chicago. Stay in the centrally located Downtown/River North area. Do not miss the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Grab some pictures at “The Bean” in Millenium Park. Daredevils can opt for “The Edge” experience at the Skydeck or the Tilt Experience at the John Hancock Building. 

In the morning depart Chicago to drive south towards Springfield, the capital of Illinois . Stop by the capitol building and take a free tour of the building.

Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grave at Oak Ridge Cemetery and then visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Grab a custard at Krekel’s before heading onward to St. Louis, Missouri. 

Plan to spend at least 2 days in St. Louis to explore the main sites. Plan to stay in the Downtown area. Ride to the top of the St. Louis Arch at Gateway Arch National Park.

Take a peek into history at the Old Courthouse, where the Dread Scott decision was made. Make sure to eat some delicious BBQ before departing St. Louis.

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

You might also like: 101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

Ready for a fantastic Midwest road trip? Regardless of the time of year, driving from Indianapolis, Indiana to Boyne City, MI is a perfect way to enjoy a long weekend.

Day one, you’ll want to get up early and head to Lansing, MI. It’s about 3.5 hours from Indy, so if you time it right, be sure to stop for lunch at Soup Spoon Cafe – a flight of soup is a fun way to start your mini-vacation. Next, if you have younger kids, head over to the Impression 5 Science Center – they’ll love the full sensory experiences. 

After the museum, finish your drive north and check-in at Boyne Mountain for the night. Enjoy a full day of exploring Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne City the next day. If it’s winter, hit the slopes for a little skiing or even tubing.

If it’s summertime, enjoy hiking, ziplining, or swimming. Downtown Boyne City is situated right on Lake Charlevoix and the town is full of delicious restaurants such as Cafe Sante and Red Mesa as well as unique local boutiques.

Leave Boyne Mountain, and head over to Petoskey for your final day. Start it off right with amazing bagels and donuts at Johann’s Bakery and then hurry over to the main Kilwins location for a factory tour. Kilwin’s offers free tours Monday – Friday every half-hour from 10 – 4:30, and each one ends with a decadent chocolate treat.

After the tour, spend a little time poking around downtown Petoskey for lunch and to pick up a few Michigan souvenirs before heading back to Indianapolis.

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

You might also like: Road Trip with Kids: 15 Essentials to Pack

Central Iowa road trip

We highly recommend taking a road trip through Central Iowa. You’ll pass through  Des Moines , Iowa’s capital and other smaller towns that have some fun and interesting attractions.

Heading east along I-80, your first stop should be the town of Winterset. It’s famous for having the  actual  bridges of Madison County. Six of the original 19 covered bridges in Madison County have been preserved just outside of town. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne. There is a museum dedicated to him, with lots of personal and movie memorabilia.

Continuing east, you reach Des Moines. We love this artsy city! It’s easy to find street art there and downtown has a 4.4-acre sculpture park that is free to the public. There’s also a really lovely botanical garden in Des Moines.

Of course, visiting the Capitol Building is a must. You can do a free self-guided tour and marvel at the building’s incredible architecture.

The next stop on your road trip should be the town of Grinnell. Home to Grinnell College, they have a small but impressive art museum on campus.

Grinnell is also the home of one of eight “jewel-box” banks built by legendary architect Louis Sullivan. He is considered the father of modern American architecture and mentored Frank Lloyd Wright. The bank is beautiful, with large stained-glass windows and pink Tennessee marble floors.

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

While many people think of Missouri as a fly-over state, it’s full of not-to-be-missed gems, from St. Louis to Kansas City. So why not see some of them in one fell swoop with a 5-day road trip?

Start in St. Louis, a city bursting with historic architecture and a thriving food and cocktail scene. Spend 2 days here, exploring the City Museum, an adult playground/art installation of interactive salvaged architectural objects. Visit Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks and its world-class museums, all boasting free admission. And, of course, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.

At night, eat your way through the exploding culinary landscape, with one of the many restaurants helmed by James Beard nominated chefs, like Vicia or Lona’s Lil’ Eats.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, drive west to Hermann, a tiny town that has several wineries, breweries, and distilleries nestled in its idyllic grassy hills. For just $20, the Hermann Trolley will shuttle you between these establishments all day, so you can responsibly imbibe in as many craft beverages as you please.

After a day here, finish your trip with 2 days in Kansas City, famous for its jazz scene. To get a taste of it yourself, head to the American Jazz Museum during the day and the Green Lady Lounge at night to see some of the world’s best musicians in action. By the end of the trip, you’ll be ecstatic to have discovered some of the Show Me State’s abundant treasures! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Oh, and if you’re planning to rent a car for one of these Midwest road trip routes, be sure to check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I usually save 10-30%, which can really add up! Discover Cars searches the top carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win! Search cheap rental cars now .

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

One of the best Midwest road trips you can take is exploring the highlights of Wisconsin. The ideal road trip itinerary takes you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ends in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your road trip in Milwaukee , but you can’t leave without spending at least 2 days in this vibrant city. As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions and history.

Must do’s are the Harley Davidson Museum and the historic Third Ward.  Stay in the iconic Pfister Hotel in downtown.

From here you finally head out to the beautiful North of Wisconsin. Along the Michigan river you’ll cross scenic towns such as Port Washington. When you arrive in Green Bay, get ready to explore this vibrant town located in Door County. 

Some of the best things to do here are visiting the Heritage Hill State Park and watch a game by the legendary Green Bay Packers. Plan at least 1 day to visit the city and all the best things to do in Door County .

From Green Bay you’ll drive to Wisconsin Dells which is famous for its waterparks. However, there is so much more to do here. From shopping to hiking in the Dells or staying overnight in one of the  most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , there will be plenty of options to spend at least 2 days in Wisconsin Dells.

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

Eat, relax and have fun in Southern Minnesota! Enjoy a food lovers paradise in Austin, Minnesota. Known for having some of the best Mexican food in the state of Minnesota, Austin is also known for award-winning BBQ sauces, french onion soup and stuffed raspberry french toast.

Want to have a food challenge, then be sure to stop by the Tendermaid. Also, don’t forget to visit the one and only SPAM Museum ! Yes – it’s real and there are nearly 20 restaurants with SPAM on the menu.

Then sit back, relax and enjoy the view in Fairmont, Minnesota . Home to a chain of 5 lakes and 29 parks in city limits, Fairmont provides you that opportunity to become one with nature. Explore lakeside dining, outdoor recreation and an arts and culture scene that is sure to impress .

Next discover how  Germans Have More Fun  in New Ulm! Enjoy a road trip through the MN River Valley National Scenic Byway to the most German city in America.

In New Ulm you can climb 102’ to the top of the ‘Herman the German’ monument. Enjoy a tour/tasting at Schell’s Brewery, MN’s oldest brewery. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic downtown. Hear bells chime at our Glockenspiel. See the 1873 murals in the rathskeller at Turner Hall. 

With so much to do in Southern Minnesota, there’s something for everyone!

Read next: How to Save Money for Travel: Your Vacation Savings Plan

Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

If you’re looking for a cool trip, head to Indiana and Ohio! Starting off in Richmond, Indiana, visit the Wayne County Historical Museum and the Levi Coffin House. Be sure to hear their amazing story of the Underground Railroad!

Stay at the Starr Loft in Richmond before heading to Ohio. On your way to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, take a diversion into Bremen at the Bicycle Museum of America. Then onto the Marblehead Lighthouse in Marblehead, Ohio where this historic lighthouse guided sailors safely since 1822.

That night stay at Port Clinton’s Fairfield Inn & Suites. The next morning, head over to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. Take Miller Boat Line’s Ferry to Put-in-Bay where you can ferry your car over to the island.

Visit Perry’s Peace Memorial which honors the War of 1812. Check out the view up the 352-foot tower! The memorial honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie. The next day, on Kellys Island, take a tour in a golf cart to check out natural phenomenons like the Glacial Grooves.

Be sure to hang out for an afternoon in Downtown Sandusky, Ohio . Take a Segway tour, visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum or go parasailing.

Last stop on this road trip is Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy the Donut Trail and tour outdoor art at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

The Loess Hills Scenic Byway takes its travelers through the most extensive loess (essentially, ancient wind-blown silt deposits) outside a remote region of China! While the byway officially starts at the Iowa state border, the hills themselves run north-south a bit east of the Missouri River, from St. Joseph, Missouri to the Sioux City, Iowa area, passing near Omaha, Nebraska in the middle of the journey.

Each of these cities are destinations in their own right, and combined, they make a road trip full of scenic views and ample entertaining places to stop along the way.  

In St. Joe, Missouri, local museums provide fascinating looks at the history of the Pony Express, the art of Thomas Hart Benton (often depicting loess hills!) and the life of the nefarious Jesse James. Near Mound City, Missouri, visit the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge to see waterfowl and bald eagles.

The Hitchcock Nature Center near Omaha and the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City provide more information about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the Loess Hills along with opportunities for hiking, boating, and more!

For ideal cruising food, try Billy Boy Drive-through just a few miles from the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Soiux City for a burger and a shake! 

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

Get a nice mix of cities and wide open spaces on a Midwest road trip from Minneapolis to Omaha. Starting in Minneapolis, you’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting the lakes, restaurants and of course, checking out the Mall of America .

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in downtown and grab an ice cream cone at Izzy’s Ice Cream . The largest mall in North America (Mall of America) is a whole lot more than shopping, too. With an indoor amusement park, it’s the perfect activity for any weather.

Then hit the road! Next stop: Northwestern Iowa. Stop in Estherville, Iowa for a rustic winery , experience an 80-year old swinging bridge or to visit the site of the largest known meteorite seen crashing into North America.

You could stay in Esterville for the night, or head about half an hour west to Lake Okoboji. In Okoboji, Iowa you’ll find shopping, dining and a bunch of water activities , of course! Try the Arnold’s Park Amusement Park or live music after a day on the water.

Next on this Midwest road trip is Sioux City, Iowa. Grab lunch or dinner at the Fourth Street Historic District in downtown Sioux City , catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or visit Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a sweet treat before leaving town.

Omaha, Nebraska is the final destination on this Midwest road trip itinerary. You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting this fun city. Omaha is known as the silicone prarie, a tech hub that’s family-friendly, yet trendy enough to support a vibrant art scene and plenty of outdoor space.

One of the best things to do in Omaha is to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , It’s the largest tourist attraction in the state, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the #1 zoo in the country! It really is that fantastic!

Check out North America’s largest indoor rain forest, feed the giraffes, walk under sharks in the aquarium and watch the animals in the world’s largest indoor desert dome. Tip: be sure to buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early to avoid the crowds as best as you can.

Get a good tour of the city while taking fun photos at the most Instagrammable places in Omaha . Spend some time wandering the Lauritzen Gardens or check out the Fun-Plex Waterpark.

For some mystery check out the Joslyn Castle , and for some history visit the Lewis and Clark Landing. The Old Market in downtown is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day touring the city.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

A Minnesota road trip on Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Marais will offer you amazing views of Lake Superior, numerous options for a delicious bite to eat, and some can’t miss attractions .

As you leave Duluth, choose the 24-mile scenic route to Two Harbors, and take in the view of Lake Superior along the way. In Two Harbors you can walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, and watch the ore ships coming and going. Enjoy a local brew at Castle Danger Brewery after doing some shopping in Agate Bay.

Just north of Two Harbors is Betty’s Pies and you don’t want to miss stopping here ! This is a full service restaurant, but they also have a walk up counter where you can order their famous pie. The pie flavors change every day, but you definitely want to try the Great Lakes Fruit Pie . This pie is filled with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, and rhubarb and it is one of a kind.

It is 11 miles to the next stop, in Castle Danger, but get your camera ready because you’ll be driving through 2 large tunnels, and the exits of both perfectly frame Lake Superior. 

Castle Danger is home to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse State Parks. You can learn a little history of the area while touring the lighthouse and take a hike down the hillside to dip your toes in the cool Lake Superior water.

Gooseberry Falls State Park has 5 waterfalls that you can hike to, and a very nice visitor center to buy some souvenirs at.

Along the remaining 72 miles to Grand Marais, take the time to stop at a beach or two to hunt for agates. The beaches along the North Shore are loaded with agates and it’s fun to find a few to bring home.  

The city of Grand Marais has a main street full of local shops that ends on the shore of Lake Superior.  The beach is a popular spot to watch the water, and to eat a delicious donut from World’s Best Donuts or maybe you’ll want a slice of thin crust pizza from Sven and Ole’s.  

Grand Marais is also the start of the Gunflint Trail. This is a 57-mile paved roadway that ends in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near the border of Ontario.

This 110 mile road trip between Duluth and Grand Marais can be made in one day, but why not take your time and really discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

Enjoy a wealth of historic, cultural, and recreational activities along Interstate 70 in northern Kansas. Start in Abilene, Kansas with visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home. Head over to pet Ginger, the greeter at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. Enjoy award-winning fried chicken at the Brookville Hotel.

Next stop along I-70 in Kansas is Junction City, home to Milford Lake and the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Tour Fort Riley’s museums, but prepare for security. Eat Munson-raised, dry-aged beef at Munson’s Prime restaurant, a local favorite. A perfect spot to call it a night is by the lake at Acorns Resort.

Then you’ll hit Manhattan, Kansas. For high adventure, fly zip lines at Wildwood Adventure Park. Afterwards, relax and eat and drink at Liquid Art Winery & Estate!

Slide into Topeka, Kansas where you can dive into history and visit the state capitol and the national historic site where the Supreme Court reversed segregation in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka . A great way to end the day is with elegance at the Cyrus Hotel.

As you head east on I-70, you’ll get to Lecompton, Kansas. Learn more about where slavery began to die at Constitution Hall State Historic Site and the Territorial Capitol. Then lighten things back up by grabbing a slice of gourmet pie at Aunt Netter’s Cafe. Delicious!

Next up is Lawrence, Kansas and downtown is the place to be! Experience downtown Lawrence during the day or night. See basketball’s original rules at The Cradle of Basketball. And if you’re looking for a brewery, Free State Brewing Co. is Kansas’ first post-prohibition brewery. Stay at in the heart of Lawrence at The Oread.

The final stop on this Northern Kansas road trip before arriving at Kansas City is Leavenworth, Kansas. Visit Fort Leavenworth, or ride antique carousels at C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. A must-try in Leavenworth is the steak house tenderloin at Metropolitan Steakhouse.

Wrapping up the I-70 Kansas road trip is of course, Kansas City! Enjoy the major leagues: sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park and NASCAR at Kansas Speedway. Eat top-notch barbecue at SLAP’s BBQ. After a great road trip in Kansas, stay in the Chateau Avalon.    

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

While most people think of a  Route 66  Road Trip as starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, you don’t need to take two weeks and traverse half the country to get in a taste of the Mother Road. Instead, you can pick a portion and explore it in-depth.

Missouri has a great stretch of Route 66 right here in the Midwest. It starts in the northeast crossing over from Illinois into St. Louis and ends at the Oklahoma border after passing through Joplin.

Obviously the most iconic site on Missouri’s portion of Route 66 is the Gateway Arch, which practically welcomes you onto the road. Make sure to tour Meramec Caverns , see the one-room jail in Cuba, and explore the interesting history of Carthage. 

Take advantage of the fun roadside kitsch of the route and get out at as many stops as you can. A real Route 66 road trip means you need to spend a few nights in the state’s retro motels and enjoy some diners and dive bars.

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

Allamakee County is the home to the most scenic byway in the state of Iowa, Driftless Area Scenic Byway. This beautiful scenic byway zigzags its way on hard-surfaced and gravel roads through the high relief, pre-glacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa in Allamakee County. 

This byway has been voted most scenic byway in the state of Iowa . It’s 100 miles of amazing! Along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway you will find…

Effigy Mounds National Monument , the 2,526-acre park by the Yellow River has walking trails with modest to extended routes, allowing you to select your route and view a variety of mounds. An accessible boardwalk trail into the wetlands near the visitor center is available for persons of all walking abilities.

Yellow River State Forest was first acquired as a state forest in 1935, the Yellow River State Forest has grown to encompass nearly 9,000 acres of natural beauty.

Great River Road , where you can enjoy 36.2 miles of the Great River Road in Allamakee County. You will discover the best of the Great River Road right here!

Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center , where you’ll see live animals, interpretative displays, 2 viewing decks of the Mississippi River, and a great group educational experience.  Located just south of Lansing.

This Midwest road trip takes your scenic adventure to another level with:

• Wine Tasting – Madigan Winery, Lansing & Empty Nest Winery, Waukon
• Bird Watching
• Beer Tasting – Safe House Saloon in Lansing
• Trout Fishing
• Cheese Curd Tour – WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon
• Shopping – Horsfall’s in Lansing, Paint Creek Gifts in Waterville and City Meat Market inNew Albin

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

Take these tips with you! Download the free road trip checklist!

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

Winding through the southern part of Ohio is the  Triple Nickel  which encompasses parts of State Route 555. If you’ve never been on this scenic, twisting by-way through the hills of Ohio, you need to put it on your bucket list! This is a perfect day trip that takes you from the picturesque town of Zanesville to the history-rich city of Marrietta.  

The Triple Nickel is one of the more challenging roads in Ohio, but you can take in some of the amazing historical sites when you’re in the area. While touring through Morgan County you can see the Big Muskie bucket part of the world’s largest earth-moving machine in Miner’s Memorial Park and Barkhurst Mill Covered Bridge.  

No trip on the Triple Nickel is complete without stopping to eat at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill. Pro-tip: Make sure to check their website for the hours of operation because they vary with the seasons.  

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while on the route, take a small detour to the  Stockport Mill Inn located in Stockport, Ohio . You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Muskingum River and the operating locks. Dotty, the owner, will treat you like family and feed you amazing comfort foods only found at the Inn.

The Triple Nickel doesn’t disappoint the road tripper looking for a challenge in the Midwest.

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

One of the most exciting small cities in the Midwest is  Madison, Wisconsin . It has a wonderful dining scene and miles of shoreline and bike trails.

A culmination of a college-town and a bustling city, Madison is also home one of America’s most beloved architects: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright used Madison and its neighborhoods as a canvas, where visitors can see his many designs come to life. Although several of Madison’s Wright-designed houses are private residences, designs like the First Unitarian Meeting Houses and Monona Terrace are must-see spots for any architectural buffs! Both buildings are just a short 10-minute drive away.

If you want to see more of the city’s art scene , visit either the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the Chazen Museum of Art! Both museums boast both Wisconsin-based artists, as well as international artists too. Furthermore, admission is free for adults, making this the perfect stop for anyone that loves to travel on a budget. 

While you’re in Madison we also highly recommend grabbing tacos from Matthew Danky and his exciting outpost El Grito Tacqueria.  

From Madison, drive about 40 minutes to the quaint town of New Glarus , Wisconsin. The main attraction here is New Glarus Brewing, one of the most highly regarded breweries by beer snobs across the country so make sure to spend a few hours there. 

New Glarus also has rich Swiss heritage. Explore and find an authentic Swiss bakery or locally made raclette and cheese fondue.

Our last stop is very enjoyable Spring Green, an hour away down winding country roads.  Frank Lloyd Wright spent the better part of his life living and working in Spring Green and maintained a school at Taliesin. Wright’s students designed many unique buildings in and around Spring Green.

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

Well there you have it! I hope you’ve found some inspiration on which route you’ll take on your upcoming Midwest road trip! Midwest states have a lot to offer for any type of road trip you’re looking for!

Comment below on which you’re considering – or which route surprised you most!

You might also like: Best Hiking in the Midwest – 16 Cool Hikes You’ll Love Denver to Moab Road Trip: 16 Scenic Stops You Gotta See to Believe 27 Awesome Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio You Can’t Miss Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Stops Along the Way 26 Best Places to Visit in October in the US

Planning to rent a car for one of these scenic routes? Check out the cheap rental car rates on my favorite site. I save up to 30%, which is awesome!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

Awesome. I'm wanting to take a scenic drive from Kansas to Ohio, off the beaten path. What are your recommendations?

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Where in Kansas and Ohio? I've spent time in Kansas City and St. Louis which may be along the way, but aren't necessarily off the beaten path. Perhaps a bit more southern, I've heard the Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are both gorgeous! Otherwise I've recently spent time in Sandusky Ohio, Put-in-Bay Ohio and the Lake Erie area. I'm sorry, I'm not sure I have a whole lot of suggestions for that specific route since I haven't personally done it. Best of luck on your road trip!

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

Thank you for this! A road-trip in the States is definitely on the cards in the future.

Yay! How fun, Alice. I'm crossing my fingers it's soon!

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

You missed a Gem of the Midwest. Part of the Driftless region on NE Iowa you need to check out the town of Decorah and the area around it. River bluffs, water falls, bike trails, 3 award winning breweries, big Scandinavian culture and museum.

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

Great suggestion! I've heard of Decorah but have never been!

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

I love that you included the Levi Coffin House. I have a post about it on my blog. Levi Coffin was a distant cousin to me through his grandmother Prudence Beals/Bales.

Friday 12th of June 2020

Oh very cool! What a small world, Christa! My pleasure to feature it. :)

• Last Updated On
• November 25, 2023

63 Best Weekend Getaways in Missouri — Quick Trips!

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing first-hand the charm of this undiscovered gem. 

As a local, I know there’s so much more to this midwestern haven than meets the eye! 

From cities bursting with culture to breathtaking river explorations and history-rich spots, it’s a treasure trove of weekend adventures.

Now, let’s talk about the real excitement – the best weekend getaways in Missouri. 

Whether you’re planning a solo escape or a family excursion, I’ve got you covered with some unforgettable spots. 

Ready to explore what Missouri has to offer? 

Follow along, my friend. 

I’m thrilled to guide you through some of the most extraordinary places right in my own backyard.

Best Weekend Getaways In Missouri Compared

If you’re craving a fantastic weekend escape in Missouri, I’ve got your back. 

Check out our top picks for unforgettable getaways.

Editor’s Choice

Hermann Hill B&B, Hermann

This is a B&B in Hermann and their aim is to make your experience the best one ever.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

D’Monaco, Branson

D’Monaco is actually on Table Rock Lake which makes it a unique experience to stay here.

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Family-Friendliness: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

The Raphael Hotel, Kansas City

This hotel is very well located to make sure that visitors have access to all the museums, shopping, art destinations and the nightlife too.

• Room Variety: 3/5
• Location: 5/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

Here are the top 63 weekend getaways in Missouri.

1. Hermann Hill B&B, Hermann (Editor’s Choice)

711 Wein St Hermann, MO 65041 (573) 486-4455 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Tranquil Setting: Nestled in a peaceful area, Hermann Hill B&B offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
• Charming Ambiance: The B&B’s warm and inviting atmosphere gives you that cozy home-away-from-home feeling, making your stay feel truly special.
• Moderate Affordability: While not overly expensive, Hermann Hill B&B might stretch the budget of travelers looking for a more budget-friendly option.
• Limited Family Amenities: Families might find the amenities geared more towards couples, potentially leaving the little ones craving for more entertainment.

You have got to love that, right?

This is a lovely looking resort that is also a popular weekend getaway.

There are some really great cottages and suites to choose from and they are all luxurious.

You can get rainforest showers, fireplaces and king beds.

If you are looking for a romantic stay, you can pick a package that includes champagne, flowers, chocolates and rose petals on the bed.

And there is a spa which offers many wonderful treatments including, of course, couples massages.

Every day here starts with a gourmet breakfast and the concierge will take care of any dinner reservations you want made.

Related: Best Day Trips From St Louis

2. D’Monaco, Branson

4125 State Hwy 86 Ridgedale, MO 65739 (417) 779-7100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Spectacular Views: D’Monaco boasts stunning lake views that can take your breath away, providing a picturesque backdrop to your stay.
• Family-Friendly Vibes: With a strong focus on family-friendliness, D’Monaco offers various amenities that cater to both parents and children, ensuring everyone has a great time.
• Room for Improvement: While the overall experience is enjoyable, there might be a few minor areas where the hotel could step up its game.
• Slightly Pricey: While not the most expensive option, D’Monaco’s price range might be a tad high for those seeking a more budget-conscious stay.

You can pick a villa to stay in and there are many which are in the 2,000-3,700 sq ft range.

All of them have kitchens with modern amenities, king beds and walk-in showers.

You will also get a private balcony for privacy.

And if you give them a grocery list ahead of time, their shopper will keep everything ready by the time you arrive.

3. The Raphael Hotel, Kansas City

325 Ward Pkwy Kansas City, MO 64112 (816) 756-3800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Historic Charm: The Raphael Hotel exudes old-world charm, offering a unique experience that transports you back in time while enjoying modern comforts.
• Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Kansas City, this hotel allows easy access to the city’s attractions, dining, and entertainment options.
• Room Variety Limitations: The hotel’s room variety might not be as wide as some travelers would prefer, potentially limiting options.
• Not Budget-Friendly: The upscale experience comes with a price tag, making The Raphael Hotel more suitable for those willing to invest in a luxurious stay.

While you’re in Kansas City, you want to try and see if you can get a room at the Raphael Hotel.

It is elegant, luxurious and has an excellent rating too.

This hotel received plenty of awards that back these claims.

It is known to be a good choice as a romantic getaway but others will enjoy their stay here too.

And you can have an incredible dinner every night at their restaurant Chaz where all the midwestern specialties are on the menu.

4. St. Louis Gateway Arch

11 N 4th St #1810 St. Louis, MO 63102 (877) 982-1410 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one is one of the first things you will see when you enter St. Louis.

The Gateway Arch is about 630 feet tall and gives you an incredible view of the city.

You just need to ride the elevator to the top to get that view.

It is iconic also in the sense that it is often referred to as the Gateway to the West.

To get to the arch, you need to head to the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park.

But if you want to see it from a distance, that can’t be much of a hardship either, as you can imagine.

You can also check it out if you go on a helicopter tour or a riverboat cruise.

And if you want to know about its history, head to the Old Courthouse and you’ll learn all about it and then some.

Recommended Hotel: Angad Arts Hotel

5. Fleur-de-Lys Mansion, St. Louis

3500 Russell Blvd St. Louis, MO 63104 (314) 773-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are thinking about where to stay while in St. Louis, here’s an idea.

The Fleur-de-Lys Mansion is actually a 19th century inn.

It reflects the historical significance of St. Louis and is a luxury stay.

This is for those who like to experience the city’s regal past and enjoy an elegant stay all at the same time.

There are a ton of guest rooms which come with their own unique features.

All of them are themed and they highlight aspects of the city’s past and present.

It is a charming place to stay and the rooms come with a whirlpool tub that fits two.

Related: Family Beaches in Missouri

6. Magnolia Hotel, St. Louis

421 N 8th St St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 436-9000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Here’s another staycation idea.

The Magnolia Hotel in St. Louis is also a well-known name because of its commitment to history.

In fact, this hotel itself is a piece of St. Louis history because it has been here since 1924.

And one of those little things that makes it special is the good old chocolate on the pillow tradition they still have.

It’s a boutique hotel which has 182 rooms and a few lavish suites.

The amenities here are up to date because they are all about keeping you comfortable.

The hotel is in the heart of the city and has also been on the list of National Register of Historic Places since 1979.

7. Moonrise Hotel, St. Louis

6177 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO 63112 (314) 721-1111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

And finally, there is Moonrise Hotel, also an excellent place to stay in St. Louis.

This one is in The Loop which is known for its proximity to dining options, entertainment options and shopping options.

This place is about keeping the excitement alive during your stay without compromising on sophistication.

The decor here reflects that mood and has a variety of colors in the palate.

There is a rooftop lounge called The Twilight Room and a terrace bar which will give you a brilliant view of the city.

It’s a nice one and one of the best romantic getaways in Missouri and so they offer some exquisite packages for those who want exactly that vibe for their weekend.

One of them contains strawberries and champagne along with rose petals as turndown service.

There’s also breakfast in bed for two people.

The second one comes with a room that has a jacuzzi.

You also get bath salts and robes with customized logos.

There’s champagne and strawberries and breakfast in bed with this one too.

8. Meramec State Park

115 Meramec Park Drive Sullivan, MO 63080 (573) 468-6519 Social Media Open in Google Maps

This state park is about 60 miles from St. Louis.

It has caves and lush forests which makes it a haven for nature lovers.

It is east of Missouri and has some breathtaking landscapes whether you want to feast your eyes on them or take pictures.

The whole thing is on the banks of the Meramec River.

So, there are a lot of places for fishing and kayaking.

You will also find many hiking trails which will keep you active and immersed in nature over the weekend.

Now, there are more than 40 caves to explore for those who like that sort of thing.

And if you are one of them, you might want to find out where Fraser Cave is and give it a go because you will find some incredible stalagmites and stalactites on the inside.

You can also find out all about these formations and the general ecology of the whole place at the visitor center.

This state park is a popular camping destination.

But if you don’t want to do that, you can still check in to one of their lodges and enjoy the same delicious view.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn Sullivan

9. Columbia

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

This is actually more popular as a college town but it is progressive and a little eccentric too, which makes it one of the fun weekend trips in Missouri.

It has some really remarkable museums that you can check out.

If you’re taking a round of the Ivy League circuit, you will have plenty of things to check out when you’re not looking at colleges.

But if you’re more outdoorsy and here just for fun, check out Finger Lakes State Park.

There is a lot of kayaking to be done there.

There’s also the Eagle Bluffs Reservation where you can do the same.

It’s hard to oversell Columbia and quite easy to undersell it.

So, don’t listen to the haters.

Recommended Hotel: Wingate by Wyndham Columbia

Related: Places to Visit in Missouri

10. Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks, MO (573) 348-1599 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one is less of a city and more like a reservoir.

But there are plenty of people who will give it a thumbs up if you’re planning a weekend getaway here.

For starters, it is a rather wonderful place just in the visual sense.

The beauty is natural and the lake is glistening.

Those who like to sit by it with a book and have a great time by themselves will absolutely love it.

But it’s not just a loner’s retreat because there is plenty of outdoor activity too.

Visit the Bridal Cave if you want to explore the underground.

The visuals here will floor you, no pun intended.

There is also the Big Surf Waterpark if you are headed this way with your family.

There is plenty of stuff to do in Lake of the Ozarks, no matter the kind of vacation you are looking for.

Recommended Hotel: Sunset Beach Resort

11. Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks (Formerly Tan-Tar-A Resort)

494 Tan Tara A Drive Osage Beach, MO 65065 (573)-348-8594 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Lake of the Ozarks, here’s a recommendation.

Margaritaville Lake Resort is sprawled over 420 acres of land.

It’s all about having some fun over the weekend and relaxing.

This resort has a lot of outdoorsy things to do like tubing, beach volleyball, water skiing, boating, wave running, horseback riding and mini golf.

And it gets better.

They have a waterpark on the property which has a huge whirlpool, hundreds of water slides, a picnic area and a lazy river too.

12. Camden on the Lake, Lake of the Ozarks

2359 Bittersweet Rd Lake Ozark, MO 65049 (573) 365-5620 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is another luxury stay option in Lake of the Ozarks.

This one is for those who want a romantic getaway but others are welcome too.

It is a great place to kick back and relax for the weekend.

They also have live music, a swim-up bar and lots of other fun things during the summer.

Then there is Toad’s Bar & Grill which is a great place for a couple of drinks.

That’s also the place where you go for live entertainment.

And it’s all night long.

13. Point Randall Resort, Lake Ozark

1584 Susan Rd Lake Ozark, MO 65049 (573) 365-2081 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Next up is Point Randall Resort in Lake Ozark.

It is a part of a cove that is about a mile long on the Lake of the Ozarks.

This point is about two miles from the Bagwell Dam and is a popular choice as one of the quick trips you can take in the state of Missouri.

It’s a resort that people who like boating will particularly enjoy.

That’s because there is a shoreline that extends over 1,000 feet and along the way there are four boat docks and 29 slips.

You have the option of renting whatever you need like kayaks, jet skis, paddleboards and rafts.

Look around and you find a delightful fishing deck, too.

There are lots of lodging places nearby which make this a comfortable weekend getaway option.

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a watersport weekend, you will find something that suits your needs.

If you are visiting with family or a group of friends, there are options to rent a large house or a suite.

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks

Related: Things to Do in Missouri with Kids

14. Stonewater Cove Resort & Spa, Ozark Mountains

1257 Sunset Timbers Trl Shell Knob, MO 65747 (417) 858-2563 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one is bang in the middle of Mark Twain National Forest.

It is a retreat that is spread over 500 acres of beautiful wilderness and it’s a luxury stay too.

Stonewater Cove Resort & Spa in Ozark Mountains is for those who enjoy a little bit of rugged decor.

They will provide everything you need to make your stay comfortable and fun because it’s an all-inclusive resort.

The guest rooms are plush with a deep soaking tub and a king sized bed.

Your day will be started with a homemade breakfast that includes some lovely egg dishes and pastries that are made from scratch.

After that, you can go to the nearby lake for some canoeing, swimming or kayaking.

If you don’t want to explore the region by yourself, you can opt for a guided excursion offered by the resort.

They have engaged forest rangers who know exactly what they are doing for this activity.

With them by your side, you can try outdoor activities like zip-lining, rope course and other water sports.

15. Jefferson City

Jefferson City, MO (573) 632-2820 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is the capital of the state and is known for its ability to provide visitors with a wonderful time over the weekend.

Whether you are a backpacker or a couple or a family, you will find a lot of activities that will keep you entertained through your stay.

For starters, there is a 19th century prison here that gives you a peek into the crime life of the city from back in the day.

The tour is interesting but will also keep you alert the whole time.

It is, after all, the Missouri State Penitentiary.

There is also the capitol building of the state, one of the monuments you shouldn’t miss while you’re here.

And if you are seeking more history, you should visit the Missouri State Museum.

It is one of the best in the state.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Capital Inn

16. Springfield

Springfield, MO (417) 864-1010 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is actually a really great place for those who are looking at Missouri vacation ideas.

And why it’s a good choice for you is because Springfield is a good weekend getaway.

It’s a good choice for those who like the outdoors because there is plenty to do here.

You could check out the Ozark Park Trail for some fresh air and a hike.

Then there’s the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium for those who don’t want to be outside exactly but still enjoy some wildlife.

There’s also Fantastic Caverns, a show cave for those who want to explore the underground.

This is just a small taste of what you can expect when you hit Springfield.

We’ll leave it to you.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Springfield North, an IHG Hotel

17. Walnut Street Inn, Springfield

900 E Walnut St Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 864-6346 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for a B&B to stay in while you’re visiting Springfield, you must check out the Walnut Street Inn.

This is a comfortable lodging space whether you want a room or a suite.

The suites are in the main house and there are two others of its kind too.

The largest of them all is the Benton Room, which comes with a living area, two queen-sized beds and skylights too.

You will find all the rooms filled with coffee makers, free Wi-Fi and lots of antiques to amuse you.

There is breakfast for the guests that the chef makes available in the main house.

You can tell them if you have any dietary restrictions so that there are no accidents on your vacation.

And it’s a great place for those who want a romantic getaway too.

Related: Family Hotels in Missouri

18. Hotel Vandivort, Springfield

305 E Walnut St Springfield, MO 65806 (417) 832-1515 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Then there is Hotel Vandivort which is also in Springfield.

This one is perfectly located for those who want to catch a glimpse of the cultural and historic attractions in Springfield.

It’s a lovely choice for a weekend getaway where you want to explore the region you are in.

This one is also popular because it is a vintage building and was a Masonic Temple back in 1906 when it was built.

Over the years, it has been renovated so that it has all the modern amenities that will keep the guests comfortable and also keep the treasures of the past alive.

It’s a boutique hotel that has wonderful rooms and open spaces to check out.

The rooms themselves come with a king bed or two queen beds, lovely bathrooms and great linens.

If you are looking to add a little romance to your weekend getaway, you want to book the master suite here because it has a ton of windows that give you a delicious view of the city outside.

19. Branson

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

Branson is a great spot for families who just want to get away from the city crowd for the weekend.

There are a lot of outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy while they are here.

There is fishing, hiking and boating at the Table Rock Lake.

History buffs won’t be left alone either and the educational options are quite entertaining too.

You should head to the Titanic Museum which will amuse and delight you to no end.

There’s also the Branson Scenic Railway if you want a glimpse into the past.

Branson is also famous for its past connections to country music.

So many people actually come here to celebrate that aspect of its history.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Crowne Resort by Capital Vacations

20. Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa, Branson

415 N State Hwy 265 Branson, MO 65616 (888) 333-5253 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Looking for places to stay in Branson isn’t too hard either because there’s the Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa.

This one is popular for its midwestern hospitality.

But that’s not it because you will experience some European elegance during the stay.

The designs are exquisite with the guest rooms having granite countertops, a private balcony and plush beddings.

You will get a view of the Table Rock Lake and the mountains surrounding it which will take your breath away.

The spa here can arrange for single treatments or couples massages.

You just tell them what you’re looking for and it’s done.

Related: Best All Inclusive Resorts in Missouri

21. Missouri Botanical Gardens, St. Louis

4344 Shaw Blvd St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 577-5100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Then there are the botanical gardens that cover 79 acres of land.

It’s a great place if you like to take a walk.

It is also a part of the National Historic Landmarks, one of many in the state of Missouri.

These gardens have been around since 1859 which makes the place especially significant.

But over time, the facilities here have been upgraded.

And one of those is the Jack C Taylor Visitor Center.

There is also the Climatron which is quite the experience if you get a chance to check it out.

It is spread over 24,000 square feet and is in a dome.

This dome contains almost 3,000 plants from about 1,400 different species.

You should also check out Linnean House and the Japanese Garden while you are here.

Don’t worry, there’s a tram that will take you around since it is a huge area to cover.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Regency Saint Louis at The Arch

22. Thousand Hills Golf Resort, Branson

245 Wildwood Dr S Branson, MO 65616 (877) 838-0042 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

This resort in Branson is known for its access and view of the nearby golf courses.

It is centrally located which means you can easily get to the tourist hotspots.

There is a fitness center, multiple tennis courts and both indoor as well as outdoor pools.

Those who want privacy can opt for cabins and larger families like to stay at the condos.

The accommodations come in different sizes and they have a great view, luxury linens and Wi-Fi access.

23. Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge, Branson

2929 Green Mountain Dr Branson, MO 65616 (417) 348-3100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

We don’t have to tell you that the name Marriot is synonymous with luxury.

So, the Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge in Branson is a great way to create memories even if it is just for a weekend.

This one is close to all the tourist attractions like Silver Dollar city, the Titanic Museum and the Indian Point Marina.

You will be spoiled for accommodation choices here.

Couples usually like to take the King guest rooms because they come stocked with everything you might need for the weekend.

Families and solo travelers usually go for the villas that have one or two bedrooms.

Each of them comes with a spacious lounge, dining area and a full kitchen.

There’s also an indoor swimming pool that is a great choice all through the year.

But seasonally, there’s an outdoor pool too.

And if you want to stay in shape while you are vacationing, they have a gym too.

24. Silver Dollar City, Branson

399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy Branson, MO 65616 (417) 336-7100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want a place that showcases the beauty of the 1880s Ozark and the theme parks of today, Silver Dollar City is the place to go.

It is in Branson and marries these aspects of the past with the present rather wonderfully.

The park has a ton of craftsmanship on display in the form of candy making, pottery, blacksmithing, candle making, glassblowing and basket weaving.

Of course, there are a lot of shops, rides, live shows and restaurants too.

If you are looking for the past though, Marvel Cave is the place to be.

This one was discovered in the 1500s by the Osage Indians and is a sign of how this mining town used to be in the 1880s.

Since the 1500s though, it has attracted a lot of explorers, archeologists, miners and those who were looking for the Fountain of Youth.

Even if you are not one of those, just looking at their expeditions will give you quite the thrill.

Recommended Hotel: The Village At Indian Point Resort

25. Table Rock State Park, Ozark Mountains

5272 Historic Hwy 165 Branson, MO 65616, (417) 334-4704 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Table Rock State Park is in the White River valley and is surrounded by the breathtaking Ozark Mountains.

It’s a great choice for those who want to look at the lake of the same name or forests of hickory and oak.

The park has a lot of places for camping surrounding the lake which is what brings a lot of its visitors here.

But there is also a marina where visitors can go to get equipment for scuba diving or boating.

As you would imagine, there are plenty of hiking trails for those who want to lose themselves in nature.

You might even walk around the lake because some of the paved trails go that way.

And those who want to go fishing will want to check out the lake because it is famous for sunfish, catfish, crappie and bass.

Recommended Hotel: Palace View Resort by Spinnaker

26. Kansas City

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

This one might have surprised you but Kansas City is in the state of Missouri.

Sure, it’s near the Kansas-Missouri border but that it is entirely inside the state of Missouri is all we needed to pull it into our list.

There are a lot of tourist hotspots to check out in Kansas City.

This includes incredible war museums and amusement parks too.

It is also a populated city which means there will be a lot of people that can go about their business while getting all the entertainment they need.

There are some sporting events to check out too if you time your visit well.

Recommended Hotel: Loews Kansas City

Related: Best Day Trips From Kansas City

27. St. Louis Zoo

1 Government Dr St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 781-0900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another spot you cannot miss in St. Louis is the zoo of the same name.

It is free to check out and you will see more than 12,000 animals here.

There are six regions inside the zoo called Lakeside Crossing, Red Rocks, Historic Hill, Discovery Corner, The Wild and River’s Edge.

Each area has a different bunch of animals and they are placed in their specific environment which will teach you more than you could’ve hoped to learn.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn St Louis- at the Arch

28. The InterContinental, Kansas City

401 Ward Pkwy Kansas City, MO 64112 (816) 756-1500 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

This one is yet another great choice for a place to stay in Kansas City.

They have an incredible team in the kitchen cooking up a storm for you every day.

And the stay is luxurious to the last detail.

It is a great place for love birds to stay but solo travelers and families will enjoy the ambiance too.

And if you want to get the excitement of the city, there are a lot of places that offer activities like zip-lining nearby.

Those who love animals will notice that the Alpaca Kingdom is near the hotel too.

And if you want to soak in the culture of the Amelia Earhart Museum or the American Jazz Museum, those are quite close by too.

29. Southmoreland on the Plaza, Kansas City

116 E 46th St Kansas City, MO 64112 (816) 500-1196 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one is an inn that is quite close to all the attractions in Kansas City.

That includes museums, shopping options and dining choices.

Southmoreland on the Plaza has 12 rooms and each of them have their own style.

They all come with a telephone with voicemail, complimentary sherry, a private bath and luxury linens.

If you want a luxury suite, you can opt for the Carriage House.

Here, you can experience a treetop deck, a fireplace and a whirlpool too.

Rooms come with king, queen or twin beds.

The suite has club chairs, a deck, fireplace, shower and a deck.

You can also head to their fitness center which is just nearby.

The place has staff at your service 24 hours a day along with turndown service, newspaper access, wireless internet and complimentary parking.

The living room has games, books, an entertainment unit and a fireplace.

Every morning, you will be given a gourmet breakfast.

In the afternoon, you will be served wine and hors d’oeuvres.

In the evening, there will be sweets and hot beverages for everyone to enjoy.

And guests can enjoy great food in the dining room or check out the fish pond on the property.

30. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City

4525 Oak St Kansas City, MO 64111 (816) 751-1278 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cultural attractions are a big part of Kansas City.

So, it shouldn’t surprise you that it is home to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

This one has a whole range of art pieces from all over the world.

But their interest in East Asia art is fascinating and worth noting.

There is also a sculpture garden on the premises but you don’t even have to enter this building to admire it.

The admission to this museum is free which is another saving grace.

And there are a few rotating exhibits which keep things interesting all through the year.

Recommended Hotel: The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center

31. National World War I Museum and Memorial, Kansas City

2 Memorial Dr Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 888-8100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Then there is the National WWI Museum which is the largest collection on the topic in the whole world.

This one has been around since 2006 and has a footfall in the millions.

The Liberty Memorial is right next to it and it has been there since before the museum has existed here.

So, that’s another fun thing that’s been there for about 90 years to check out while you’re here.

It was a tribute to the war and was established in 1926 by President Calvin Coolidge.

You will learn all there is to learn about its history through exciting and interactive exhibits.

There are also over 7,000 items that are on rotating display.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center

32. The Inn on Crescent Lake, Excelsior Springs

1261 St Louis Ave #2938 Excelsior Springs, MO 64024 (816) 630-6745 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This place is just 30 minutes from Kansas City and a great choice for a weekend getaway.

The inn is on 22 acres of land which include two ponds, 10 rooms with bathrooms and Wi-Fi.

What’s more, it is in a colonial mansion which gives it a regal touch.

You can check out bird watching, walking on the trails, paddle boating, fishing and more.

There is also a place on the property with a hammock, a solarium and there’s a ping pong table for those who want to stay indoors.

You will get breakfast every morning and it will be served in the solarium.

33. The Elms Hotel and Spa, Excelsior Springs

401 Regent St Excelsior Springs, MO 64024 (816) 630-5500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Then there is the Elms Hotel and Spa which is another excellent choice if you’re in Excelsior Springs.

This one has been around for about 125 years and is a lavish place with delightful gardens and lovely rooms.

It was recently renovated and the $20 million spent on it makes it even more luxurious.

The rooms here are extremely comfortable thanks to the plush beddings, just one of the many luxuries here.

As the name suggests, there’s also a spa which makes the weekend even more relaxing.

The spa is in The Grotto and has a steam sauna, dry sauna, hot tub, steam shower, exfoliation bar and more.

34. Republic

Republic, MO Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Republic is very popular because it is home to the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield.

But there is more to this place than this one civil war hotspot.

There is a visitor center here that will tell you all about the history of the battlefield.

There is also a huge swath of land that is in the same plot and has been secured as an homage to the event.

You will find some interesting memorabilia here including old canons that were used in the past.

Republic is also where the historic JR Martin Park is which means it is always a good day to take a stroll down the history lane.

Recommended Hotel: AmericInn by Wyndham Republic

35. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, Republic

Republic, MO 65738 (417) 732-2662 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Let’s talk about the battlefield itself for a minute.

In 1861 about 5,400 troops from the Union and about 11,000 Confederates fought on this very ground.

The confederates might have won that round but it did lead to more battles in this state.

The artifacts on this property give you an insight into what that was like.

Some of them include the sash and sword belt of General Patrick Cleburne from Arkansas.

Apart from touring the battlefield itself, you can also go down the road that extends 4.9 miles and see all the structures.

What’s left of them anyway.

There are also trails extending seven miles along this route which is very scenic by the way.

And there are a lot of parking spots too if you are overwhelmed and want to take a beat.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express and Suites Springfield Medical District, an IHG Hotel

36. Independence

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

If you are looking for a small town for a relaxing weekend getaway in Missouri, Independence is an excellent choice.

You can get away from all that is stressing you out and enjoy a simple vacation right here in Missouri.

If you want to take a walk in the morning, you should head towards the Little Blue Trace Trail.

There’s also the Top Hat Winery where you can taste the finest of the wines in Missouri.

And the McCoy Park is another place that visitors like to check out.

It’s a great spot for a picnic on days when the sun is out.

Recommended Hotel: My Place Hotel-Kansas City/Independence MO

37. Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum, Independence

500 W US Hwy 24 Independence, MO 64050 (816) 268-8200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

While you’re in Independence, you might want to check out the Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum.

This place has an incredible collection of objects that belonged to the former President.

You will find a little bit of art and history mixed in this museum.

But it’s not just about the individual.

The place has a lot of historical objects that give you a peek into the history of the time period 1945-1953.

One of the most exciting bits of that history might be the President’s office in the White House.

Of course, what you will see is a replica of it.

But you will also see the President and Mrs. Truman’s graves right there in the courtyard.

Go down the road by a mile and you can see the Victorian home of the former President.

He lived there with his family till 1972 when he died.

It still has some of the original furnishings and the family’s possessions too.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Independence Kansas City

38. Hannibal

Hannibal, MO (573) 221-2477 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Literature lovers will have the time of their lives in Hannibal.

It is the place where Mark Twain spent his childhood and that is just the thing that Hannibal is most popular for.

Today, the home also has a museum which has a lot of objects from his life and those times.

There are a few places named after the writer like the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse and the Mark Twain Cave and Campground.

These are both fascinating places to check out not just because of their names.

This town has a lot to offer if you want to know about Mark Twain.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western On the River

Related: Restaurants in Hannibal

39. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Hannibal

120 N Main St Hannibal, MO 63401 (573) 221-9010 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Speaking of all things Mark Twain in Hannibal, the home and museum of the late writer is one place you cannot miss.

That’s why it gets special mention.

Before making Mark Twain his pen name, he was Samuel Clemens and he stayed in this house along with the family in 1843.

He lived in this house until he was 18 years old.

But this house has been open for visitors since the year 1912.

Over the years, it has been restored a few times and decorated to match the style of its time.

There are two other museums next to this house where you can check out memorabilia related to the author.

This includes photos, first editions copies, original manuscripts and the desk where he wrote The Adventure of Tom Sawyer.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Hannibal

40. Hermann

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

If you want a small town with a great view then Hermann is a great choice.

It is located in the Missouri Rhineland.

There are lovely 19th-century buildings in brick that you can walk by

You can start at the Deutschheim State Historic Site which has been restored.

These structures are from the 1840s and 50s and tell the story of German settlers in the area.

If you like plays, you should check out the Showboat Theater.

And then there is the Stone Hill Winery.

We don’t have to tell you what you will find there.

But you will also find some incredible views if you look towards the steep hills that surround it.

There are a lot of German-style taverns here where you can taste amazing wine and also some delicious German sausages.

Recommended Hotel: Helming Guest House

Related: Best Restaurants in Hermann

41. Inn at Hermannhof, Hermann

237 E 1st St Hermann, MO 65041 (573) 486-5199 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

While you’re in Hermann, if you are looking for a place to stay, we would recommend the Inn at Hermannhof.

The place was first built in the mid-1800s when times were simpler but also very romantic.

But the amenities are suited to modern-day living and you will have a great time exploring the Missouri wine country while you stay here.

This is more of a B&B and each room is unique in its own way.

There is certainly no lack of charm here but the luxury is impeccable too.

If you are looking for an oversized shower, a fireplace and a deep soaking tub, you should book their Champagne room.

And maybe call for an in-room massage because they’ve got that too.

42. Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale

190 Top of the Rock Rd Ridgedale, MO 65739 (800) 225-6343 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Now let’s move on to Ridgedale where you can stay at the Big Cedar Lodge.

This place has excellent ratings and is also a great place for those who want a little luxury added to their weekend getaway.

Most people who have lived here say it is like being teleported to a new world.

There are rooms that are designed like cottages, log cabins and lodges.

So, the choice is yours.

You can stay in the log cabin if you are looking for a romantic vibe.

They have modern kitchens, wilderness and fireplaces.

The architecture is guaranteed to stun you into relaxation.

This will be a memorable vacation.

43. Hotel Frederick, Boonville

501 High St Boonville, MO 65233 (660) 882-2828 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one is in downtown Boonville in Missouri and it’s a luxury hotel.

It is called Hotel Frederick and it is a boutique hotel mixed with historic elegance.

This hotel has a fascinating history.

It was first built in 1905 but for a while in the 20th century it was just a restaurant.

It then turned into a bus depot in Greyhound and then became a retirement center.

But by the early 2000s, it became what it was meant to be: Hotel Frederick.

This hotel is a symbol of a lot of history in Boonville.

The streets nearby are romantic and there are a lot of sites that were hand-built.

Incredible, isn’t it?

44. Sedalia

Sedalia, MO 65301 (660) 827-3000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Sedalia is a gem waiting to be discovered. 

Unlike the bustling cities nearby, Sedalia offers a charming blend of history, art, and outdoor fun. 

Ever been to a State Fair? 

Sedalia’s got one of the best, filled with family-friendly activities. 

Love music? 

The ragtime festival will have your toes tapping. 

While other destinations might boast bigger attractions, Sedalia’s warm community vibe makes it a unique spot for families. 

It’s a place where memories are made, and the laughter of children fills the air. 

Come for a visit, and you’ll see why Sedalia feels like home.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sedalia, an IHG Hotel

45. Carthage

Carthage, MO (417) 237-7000 Social Media Open in Google Maps

Carthage is a small town with a history of civil war battles.

It was home to many outlaws back in the back but also to Fortune 500 capitalists.

That’s not all.

Women’s rights activities and musicians have also lived here from time to time.

So, there is no one kind of entertainment you will find here.

This place was built to reflect its Victorian legacy which you will note in its architecture.

You will see that there are over 600 buildings across four different districts that will reflect this heritage.

And most, if not all of them, have made it to the National Registry of Historic Places.

The Jasper County Courthouse is just one example of all that glory.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Suites Carthage

46. The Westin St. Louis

811 Spruce St St. Louis, MO 63102 (314) 621-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For a memorable urban adventure, spend a relaxing weekend at the Westin St. Louis.

Surrounded by crowded crosswalks and stop lights, this hotel provides easy access to Washington Avenue, and Ballpark Village.

And, even with its busy downtown location, this hotel exudes a relaxed vibe, with its high-ceiling rooms and comfy setting.

47. The Lodge of Four Seasons

315 Four Seasons Dr Lake Ozark, MO 65049 (573) 365-3000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Indulge in a refreshing lakeside escape with a weekend trip to this lodge.

As you stay at this lodge, you’ll be fascinated by its picture-perfect waterfront setting full of smiles and adventures.

There’s also a wood-planked pathway that leads to an on-site spa with rejuvenating treatments, like a Swedish massage.

48. Courtyard by Marriott, Cape Girardeau Downtown

400 Broadway St Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 (573) 240-9420 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is one for those who want a basecamp while they check out the surroundings.

Courtyard by Marriott is the perfect place for a weekend getaway where you can rest while you walk around checking out Cape Girardeau’s history.

The lobby of this hotel has been revamped and so there are plenty of places for guests to relax, meet and even work.

The rooms in the hotel are comfortable of course.

They have a king or queen bed and sleeper couches too.

The main lobby has a restaurant called The Bistro where you can get a snack, breakfast or dinner when you are in a rush.

And if you want to stretch a bit, there is a fully equipped fitness center too.

49. River of Life Farm, Dora

1746 River Of Life Drive Dora, MO 65637 (417) 261-7777 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation in Missouri , this cannot miss your radar.

The River of Life Farm is actually a popular place in the state.

It has Cabins for Two for the love birds where you will have covered patios, charcoal BBQ, king beds and whirlpool tubs.

There are larger lodges for families which accommodate up to 14 guests.

And the property has a lot of options like fly-fishing, kayaking, canoeing, bird watching and hiking.

So, that’s for those who like to be active.

But if you want to just relax, this is a great place for stargazing too.

50. Rainbow Trout and Game Ranch, Rockbridge

4297 Co Rd 142 Rockbridge, MO 65741 (417) 679-3619 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You are going to love this one.

The Rainbow Trout and Game Ranch is on 2,000 acres of land.

It is in the Ozark Mountains and it is a very popular place for those who like hunting and fly-fishing.

It is a private ranch and, as just mentioned, is a great place for fly-fishing.

In fact, it is known all over the country for that.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, you will find plenty of company here.

This ranch also has the Rockbridge Gun Club on the premises.

So, if you are into hunting wild turkey or just shooting clay pigeons, you will have a great time here.

And if you time the trip well, you might even spot some white-tailed deer.

The lodging options are of different sizes.

So, you can get a single bedroom house or one with many bedrooms.

Enjoy the view of the hills or of the stream along the room.

And for dinner, you can go either to their main restaurant or the Grist Mill Club.

Recommended Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Ava

51. St. Louis

St. Louis, MO (314) 622-4800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

First up on the list is St. Louis , which is often referred to as the title city of the state.

It’s on the bucket list of most middle-Americans.

This is a big city which means there are plenty of things to do .

There is a lot to do even on a weekend trip.

And we’ll go into some of these to make sure you know exactly what to expect from St. Louis.

Overall, there are plenty of restaurants to explore for those who love food.

There are also a lot of museums that are meant for history buffs to check out and maybe learn a thing or two.

Plus, more often than not, there is a sporting event that you will enjoy catching.

St. Louis isn’t one to skip if you’re looking at Missouri vacations.

Recommended Hotel: The Last Hotel

52. Loganberry Inn, Fulton

310 W 7th St Fulton, MO 65251 (573) 642-9229 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Loganberry Inn is near the Brick district in Fulton.

This one has been around since 1899 which means you will enjoy a little bit of history too while you stay here.

The shops nearby are filled with antiques and restaurants which offer delicious food.

The inn itself has six rooms which are all in Victorian style.

There is a Margaret Thatcher room because she stayed here in 1996.

It has a fireplace and an antique double bed.

You can expect to start your day with a lovely gourmet breakfast.

53. Betty Lea Lodge, Echo Bluff State Park

MO-19 Newton Township, MO 64152 (855) 999-6980 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

This is a lodge in Sinking Creek where you can enjoy the views from the Echo Bluff State Park.

The lodge has 16 rooms and four suites and all of them suit couples and families.

The rooms have one king bed or two queen beds, a TV, a coffeemaker, mini fridge and free Wi-Fi.

If you are a large group, you can book a cabin with multiple bedrooms.

While you’re here, enjoy fishing, swimming, mountain biking or hiking.

If you’re here in summer and brought the kids along, they can check out the splash pad or the water park.

Recommended Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Cuba

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

Weston is a small town in Missouri.

It is home to the Buffalo Bill and is located along the Missouri River.

Its history also includes the Oregon Trail, Santa Fe Trail and the starting point of the Gold Rush.

You can learn all about this at the Weston Historical Museum.

Try going on a walking tour which will take you through some of the best-looking neighborhoods of the city.

If you love beer, you should check out the Weston Brewing Company too.

And if you like theater, head to the Weston Community Theater.

The state park has plenty of hiking trails for nature lovers.

And you can gaze upon Form Leavenworth or the Missouri River while you’re at it.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Leavenworth

55. St. Charles

St. Charles, MO (636) 949-3200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Here’s another river city that is also called the state’s First Capital.

St. Charles was home to Daniel Boone and is the starting point of the Boone Lick Trail.

You can take a peek into that history at the Historic Daniel Boone Home & Heritage Center to know more about him.

If you’re here with children, head to the Demolition Ball where there are a lot of fun games and bumper cars.

There is also a lot of biking and hiking at the Katy Trail State Park.

Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, St. Charles, MO

56. Mark Twain National Forest, Rolla

401 Fairgrounds Rd Rolla, MO 65401 (573) 364-4621 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one has lakes, streams, springs and more which means nature lovers will have an incredible time here.

If you’re outdoorsy there is a lot of exploration to be done here.

The scenery along the Ozark Trail is filled with forests that are mostly untouched.

And that’s why a lot of people come here for swimming, canoeing, hiking, fishing and cycling.

You will also find a ton of places for picnics and camping.

And, of course, there is the Glade Top Trail National Scenic Byway which has some breathtaking countryside views.

57. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

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

This is another state park that will leave you spellbound.

For starters, there are castle ruins in the middle of this park which it is best known for.

Next to it is the Niangua part of the Lake of the Ozarks which is now a private property.

It was a stone mansion back in the day that was destroyed by fire.

But it has been remodeled to look like a European castle and you will absolutely love visiting it.

There are a great deal of bluffs, caves and sinkholes to check out.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Lake of the Ozarks

58. Ozark National Scenic Riverways

404 Watercress Rd Van Buren, MO 63965 (573) 323-4236 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is actually a park that protects the river system around it.

And it’s the first of its kind to do that which makes the Ozark National Scenic Riverways extra special.

A weekend getaway here is a divine experience not just because it has been around since 1964 but also because there are caves, cliffs, springs and forests all over this region.

The beauty is 100 percent natural and most of the wilderness is not very well explored.

So, you will have a great time hiking and horseback riding here.

And if you are into watersports, there’s canoeing and kayaking as well.

The rivers are also popular places for swimming and fishing.

And if you only want to check out caves, well, there are 300 of those waiting for you.

Recommended Hotel: Honeysuckle Inn

59. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, Middle Brook

148 Taum Sauk Trail Middle Brook, MO 63656 (573) 546-2450 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re in Middle Brook and looking for a weekend getaway, you will find an excellent answer in the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.

This one is built on over 8,600 acres of land.

It is surrounded by the St. Francois Mountains and is a great camping spot in all of Missouri.

It is located along the East Fork Black River and is just 10 miles away from Lesterville.

That’s in the Goggins Mountains region.

This is a park with a visitor center, tons of riverside picnic spots and a general store.

You will find a lot of amenities here which is probably why a lot of people flock to this spot.

There are small pools that are amid the rocks of the Black River and a few shut-ins too.

You will love the view of crisscrossing mountains that also have hiking trails that extend 45 miles.

And the view is just incredible.

Recommended Hotel: Fort Davidson Hotel

60. Elephant Rocks State Park, St. Francois Mountains

7390, 7406 MO-21 Belleview, MO 63623 (573) 546-3454 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you like hanging out at state parks, here’s one that will also take your breath away.

The Elephant Rocks State Park is in St. Francois Mountains which are in the southeastern part of the state.

This is a popular place for hiking, but more importantly, it is classified as a geological reserve.

This place has a lot of granite boulders that are considered to be unusual looking.

And it gets its name from the fact that they look like walking elephants.

These rocks have been here for 1.5 billion years.

That’s right.

They are said to have come from molten magma (that’s what lava is called while it is still in the volcano) that has eroded and fractured over time.

In the 19th century, they quarried this place and over the years it turned into a hiking and rock climbing place.

Needless to say, both those activities are incredibly fun and one of a kind when done here.

Recommended Hotel: Shepherd Mountain Inn & Suites

61. Grant’s Farm, St. Louis

7385 Grant Rd St. Louis, MO 63123 (314) 843-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is a historic farm that is spread over 281 acres of land.

Grant’s Farm, unsurprisingly, is in Grantwood Village and is called so because Ulysses S Grant bought it and farmed there.

Then the Busch family bought it over and turned it into a tourist attraction filled with goats, camels, buffaloes, donkeys, kangaroos and more.

Since it is such a huge place, you can take a tour on a tram.

There’s a deer park here where you can see Clydesdales graze too.

And there is a cabin that was built by Grant in 1856 and it is called Hardscrabble.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites St Louis – Sunset Hills

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

We’re not talking about Janis but a city in Missouri.

This is a small place in Koplin’s Creek Valley and is where zinc and lead were originally discovered.

That made this place very popular back in the day and the economy of the city grew.

But now it is also home to some incredible architecture that you can check out while on the popular Route 66.

You will find the Murphysburg District where the founding fathers of the city built some truly elegant homes.

There’s also the Sunshine Lamp District where you can enjoy galleries, restaurants and shops.

And we can’t forget Grand Falls which is the largest natural waterfall in all of the state.

It is about 2 feet from a ledge that is 163 feet wide.

And if you just want to take a walk, head to the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites By Hilton Joplin, MO

63. Lee’s Summit

Lee’s Summit, MO (816) 969-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Last but certainly not the least is Lee’s Summit.

This one is one of Missouri’s largest cities so obviously, it made it to the list of weekend getaways in MO.

The city itself is on an elevation between Kansas City and St. Louis.

You can start checking it out from the Downtown District where there are loads of galleries and shops.

There are also beautifully built homes and churches on the residential streets in the area.

These have been around since the 1800s.

And there is the Lee’s Summit Historical Museum where you can learn all about the city’s history.

But if you just want to take a walk, head to Longview Mansion and Farm in Powell Gardens.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Kansas City – Lee’s Summit, an IHG Hotel

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

You know, being a local here, I’ve had the joy of spending weekends in some incredible spots across the state. 

Let me take you through three favorites.

Hermann Hill B&B in Hermann is pure charm. 

I remember sipping on local wines on the porch, just soaking in the view. 

Compared to D’Monaco in Branson, it’s more intimate and homey. 

Now, D’Monaco? 

That place is all about luxury. 

Last summer, my family and I basked in their infinity pool – a memory that’ll never fade.

But then there’s The Raphael Hotel in Kansas City. 

It’s got this cool, urban vibe.

I met a jazz musician in the lobby once, and we chatted all night. 

It’s a different feel from the other two but equally special.

Each spot has its own flavor. 

Hermann Hill B&B is for those seeking tranquility, D’Monaco caters to families with its stunning views, while The Raphael Hotel offers historic charm in the city’s heart. 

It all depends on what your soul’s craving at the moment.

How I Picked The Destinations 

I’ve got the lowdown on all things awesome in this state. 

I went full-on explorer mode, sifting through gems, chatting with fellow adventurers, and unraveling the hidden treasures. 

Think of me as your getaway guru, hunting down the perfect escapes.

Whether you’re all set to hit the road or just daydreaming about it, we’ve got your back. 

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What’s the best time to plan a weekend getaway in missouri.

Spring and fall are popular for pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. However, each season brings its own unique charm, so plan based on your preferences.

Where Can I Experience The Charm Of A Small Town In Missouri?

Rocheport is a hidden gem with its charming streets, antique shops, and access to the Katy Trail for hiking and biking.

What’s The Appeal Of Wine Country In Missouri?

Missouri wine country, particularly Hermann, offers picturesque vineyards, wine tastings, and a relaxing countryside escape.

Conclusion 

I’ve dipped my toes into everything Missouri has to offer and trust me, it’s filled with enchanting surprises. 

From cozy B&Bs to vibrant cities, the best weekend getaways in Missouri are waiting for you to explore. 

And speaking of cozy, Hermann Hill B&B in Hermann steals the show as our top choice. 

I’ve felt the warmth of its charm, savored its tranquility, and I bet you’ll fall in love with it too. 

Let your Missouri adventure start there or wherever your heart desires.

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. 

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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