if you just have to leave Kansas City...
Thinking about ditchin' town? How could you?! Just kidding. Living in Kansas City means that you have access to tons of different potential day trips in the area, whether you're looking for historical towns where the air is thick with mythology or relaxing lake resorts perfect for taking a dip when the weather warms up. Here are 10 essential day trips just a short drive away from KC.
Updated: November 2024
Photo: Lawrence, KS Facebook
There's a special kinship between KC and Lawrence, but no list of the best day trips from the former would be complete without including the latter. Lawrence is KC's younger and hipper cousin, home to college pride and a seriously awesome music scene. At only 45 minutes away from Kansas City, Lawrence is the perfect choice for a Saturday spent exploring (especially if you want to keep the vibes semi-urban).
Photo: City of Atchison
Atchison is most famous for being the birthplace of Amelia Earhart, and the town does
an outstanding job of paying tribute to the aviation legend. There are numerous Earhart-themed attractions, of course, but they are also tons of other interesting art museums and galleries, plus several outdoor activities that will keep your day trip active and well-rounded.
Photo: Facebook
Day trips can be active or they can also be relaxing escapes from the hustle and bustle of city life. Excelsior Springs is a great destination if you're in the mood for the latter. Located just half an hour from KC, here you'll find several amazing attractions, like the historic Elms Hotel, several wineries, and breweries, as well as plenty of cool local shops and galleries.
Photo: City of Carthage
History buffs, listen up! Carthage played a key role in the American Civil War, as it was the site of two famous battles. Nowadays, it sports a Civil War Museum as well as other historic buildings that date back to the Reconstruction. It's absolutely lovely during autumn when you can see the foliage change beautifully... it's no wonder why they call Carthage "America's Maple Leaf City!"
Photo: Facebook
Sometimes you just need to be by the water, and in such times, KC-dwellers would do well to flock to Lake Jacomo in Jackson County, MO. The lake is one of the more popular outdoor recreation spots, and that's due to not only the many water sports opportunities but also the many hiking and walking trails that surround the lake itself. If you're looking to stay a bit longer, you have access to different campgrounds in the area.
Photo: City of Independence, MO
With a name like Independence, you just know this town is gonna be historic, and guess what? It is. Independence, MO is the hometown of one of Kansas City's most famous citizens, Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. You can tour the president's long-time home as well as his presidential library and other related attractions. There is also plenty of excellent lunch and dinner options, making this the perfect spot for a day trip.
Photo: Facebook
We feel like Kansas and Missouri's wine regions don't get nearly enough credit nationally speaking, and that's a darn shame because the area features an abundance of top-notch wineries that produce excellent wine. The Somerset Wine Trail includes four of these wineries -- Somerset Ridge, White Wind, Night Hawk, and Middle Creek -- and offers tours and tastings all year long. Try to time your day trip with one of the many different wine-themed events that take place throughout the spring and summer seasons.
Photo: Facebook
Just 45 minutes southeast of Downtown Kansas City lies Powell Gardens, a 915-acre botanical garden that features over 200,000 plants along with exceptionally large flower showcases, an indoor conservatory, and the gorgeous Rock & Waterfall Garden. Don't miss the Heartland Harvest Garden, the country's largest 'edible' landscape.
Photo: Missouri Town 1855
Directly east of Independence, MO sits Missouri Town 1855, a fascinating living history center that does its best to faithfully recreate an 1850s farming village. The "town" is full of living history staff, who portray what life was like in the 19th century American Midwest, and you'll gaze in wonder at the many restored historic buildings that beautifully paint the picture of a time gone by.
Photo: Facebook
Weston is another great day trip option if you're looking to step back into a simpler time. This historic little community is best known for Green Dirt Farm, a historic dairy that still churns out cheeses and milk products, as well as a plethora of other creameries, wineries, and of course, the Weston Brewing Company. With facilities like these in town, you just know that Weston's restaurant scene will be amazing... and it is, as you'll find no shortage of food and beverage options that are as locally sourced as they are delicious.
Got a rad day trip idea that we should include in this guide? Fill us in by reaching out to [email protected].
Looking to stay city-bound instead? Check out our list of the Best Picnic Spots in KC.
