In This Article

Looking to get out of town for a bit? In this post, I’ll share the rolling countryside, historic towns, and hidden gems near Kansas City—where Midwest charm and easy escapes make every day trip a refreshing adventure. These day trips offer small-town charm, scenic trails, and unique cultural stops—all within easy reach!

If you are in a hurry, I recommend:

  • Explore the art galleries and wineries of Weston, Missouri.
  • Visit the historic sites of Independence, including the Truman Library.
  • Stroll the quaint streets of Lawrence, home to the University of Kansas.
  • Hike and paddle through the trails and lakes at Watkins Mill State Park.

Unique Day Trips from Kansas City:

1. Atchison - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Kansas City

Atchison - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Kansas City

© Atchison Kansas FB Page

Location:

Atchison, KS

Highlights:

If you're anywhere near Kansas City and craving a mix of history, charm, and fresh air, Atchison is a hidden gem worth the short drive. Whether you're chasing aviation history or riverside strolls, it's a day trip that feels like a discovery.

Recommended For:

History buffs, families, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys scenic, culture-rich small towns.

What I Love:

Amelia Earhart tributes, beautiful river views, walkable downtown, and local museums packed with stories.
  • Visit the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum and the impressive Earthwork portrait to honor the legendary aviator.
  • Ride the miniature railroad at the Atchison Rail Museum—a hit with transportation lovers of all ages.
  • Explore art and architecture at the Muchnic Art Gallery and Evah C. Cray Historical Home Museum.
  • Enjoy the outdoors at Jackson Park and Warnock Lake, perfect for hiking, sports, and summer picnics.

Distance from Kansas City:

The drive is about 1 hour and 15 minutes northwest of Kansas City.

How to Get to Atchison:

Take I-70 West to I-435 North. Merge onto US-73 North and follow signs directly into Atchison.

Atchison, KS is 55 min (50.9 mi) via I-29 N and MO-273 N from Kansas City:


2. Carthage - 2 hours and 45 minutes

Carthage - 2 hours and 45 minutes

© Courtesy of PeekCC - Fotolia.com

Location:

Carthage, MO

Highlights:

Want a dose of Route 66 nostalgia, Civil War history, and angelic art—all in one place? Just a quick trip from Kansas City, Carthage is the kind of quirky, beautiful town that makes for a memorable getaway.

Recommended For:

Road trippers, history lovers, Route 66 enthusiasts, families, and fans of unique Americana.

What I Love:

Historic downtown architecture, iconic roadside attractions, and the surprisingly moving Precious Moments Chapel and gardens.
  • Tour over 600 National Register-listed buildings including the stunning Jasper County Courthouse and Historic Carthage Square.
  • Stop at classic Route 66 landmarks like the 66 Drive-In Theater and the fun, retro Kiddieland amusement park.
  • Explore the Carthage Civil War Museum to learn about the town's rich past and post-war rebirth.
  • Reflect in the peaceful gardens of the Precious Moments Chapel, filled with angelic bronze statues and spiritual serenity.

Distance from Kansas City:

Plan for about a 2 hour and 45 minute drive southeast of Kansas City.

How to Get to Carthage:

Take I-49 South to I-44 East. Exit at MO-571 toward Carthage and follow signs into town.

3. Excelsior Springs - a 30-minute drive

Excelsior Springs - a 30-minute drive

© Downtown Excelsior Springs, Missouri FB Page

Location:

Excelsior Springs, MO

Highlights:

Need a quick escape with spa-town vibes, quirky history, and great food? Excelsior Springs is an easy half-hour trip from Kansas City that feels like stepping into a charming resort-era time capsule.

Recommended For:

Spa lovers, architecture buffs, foodies, golfers, and anyone looking for a relaxing, culture-filled getaway.

What I Love:

The Elms Hotel’s storied past, the incredible Hall of Waters, and the vibrant mix of small-town shops, vineyards, and events.
  • Step back in time at the historic Elms Hotel and the 1930s Art Deco masterpiece, the Hall of Waters.
  • Stroll through a charming downtown filled with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and one-of-a-kind local restaurants.
  • Sip local wines and brews at area vineyards and breweries offering tastings and scenic views.
  • Play at Excelsior Springs Golf Club or time your visit with the Mineral Water Bowl or Worlds of Fun amusement park nearby.

Distance from Kansas City:

Just a 30-minute drive northeast—perfect for a quick getaway or an easy day trip.

How to Get to Excelsior Springs:

Take I-35 North to US-69 North, then follow MO-10 East directly into town.

4. Florida, MO - a 3-hour drive from Kansas City

Florida, MO - a 3-hour drive from Kansas City

© Missouri State Parks

Location:

Florida, MO

Highlights:

If you’re a fan of American literature or just love peaceful lakeside escapes with a story, Florida, Missouri is a hidden treasure. It's quiet, scenic, and forever tied to the life and legacy of Mark Twain.

Recommended For:

Literature lovers, history enthusiasts, quiet nature seekers, and travelers looking for meaningful, offbeat stops.

What I Love:

Twain’s preserved birthplace cabin, original manuscripts and first editions, and the beautiful setting along Mark Twain Lake.
  • Visit the Mark Twain Birthplace Historic Site, where a two-room cabin is preserved inside a modern museum.
  • See treasures like a handwritten copy of *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* and original editions of Twain’s most famous works.
  • Explore the museum's exhibits, browse the research library, or enjoy a quiet moment in the public reading room.
  • Relax by the shores of Mark Twain Lake, perfect for a reflective walk or a low-key picnic after touring.

Distance from Kansas City:

About a 3-hour drive northeast—best as a weekend literary pilgrimage or scenic day trip.

How to Get to Florida, MO:

Take I-70 East to US-24 East, then follow signs for Mark Twain State Park and Birthplace Historic Site near the Mark Twain Lake reservoir.

Romantic Day Trips from Kansas City:

5. Hermann - a 3-hour drive from Kansas City

Hermann - a 3-hour drive from Kansas City

© Courtesy of Leia - Fotolia.com

Location:

Hermann, MO

Highlights:

If you're in the mood for wine, charm, and a touch of Old-World flair, Hermann is a dream day trip from Kansas City. This riverside town blends rich German heritage with scenic vineyards and festive events all year long.

Recommended For:

Wine lovers, couples, history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and fans of European-style small towns.

What I Love:

Seven award-winning wineries, vibrant festivals on the Hermann Wine Trail, and preserved 19th-century architecture around every corner.
  • Tour the Hermann AVA, home to a third of Missouri's wine production and historic family-run vineyards.
  • Attend seasonal events like the Chocolate Wine Trail in February or the Berries and Barbecue bash in summer.
  • Explore the Deutschheim State Historic Site and the privately funded Gasconade County Courthouse for a peek into German-American history.
  • Adventure on the Katy Trail or zip through tree canopies around town—there’s something for every pace.

Distance from Kansas City:

Roughly a 3-hour drive east, ideal for a weekend getaway or wine-country escape.

How to Get to Hermann:

Take I-70 East to US-19 South. Cross the Missouri River bridge into downtown Hermann, where tasting rooms and trailheads await.

6. Independence, MO - Just a 20-minute drive from Kansas City

Independence, MO - Just a 20-minute drive from Kansas City

© Courtesy of gnagel - Fotolia.com

Location:

Independence, MO

Highlights:

Looking for a fun mix of presidential history, pioneer trails, and family activities just outside Kansas City? Independence is packed with fascinating stories, beautiful parks, and some truly underrated gems.

Recommended For:

History lovers, families, presidential buffs, and anyone curious about westward expansion and pioneer life.

What I Love:

Rich trail history, Harry Truman’s preserved home and library, and the chance to walk where pioneers once stood.
  • Explore the National Frontier Trails Museum and walk along preserved pioneer routes like the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails.
  • Visit the Truman Presidential Library and Truman Home to get an intimate look at Missouri’s most famous president.
  • Step into 19th-century elegance at the Bingham Waggoner Estate or explore religious history at the Mormon Visitor Center and Temple Lot.
  • Cool off at Adventure Oasis Water Park or hike through the 86-acre George Owens Nature Park with kids in tow.

Distance from Kansas City:

Just a 20-minute drive east—perfect for a historical half-day or spontaneous family outing.

How to Get to Independence:

Take I-70 East or US-40 East, then follow signs into downtown Independence for museums and historical sites.

7. Lake Jacomo - Just a 30-minute drive

Lake Jacomo - Just a 30-minute drive

© Courtesy of Tommy Brison - Fotolia.com

Location:

Lake Jacomo, MO

Highlights:

Craving a day on the water or a peaceful hike without leaving the Kansas City area? Lake Jacomo delivers big nature energy with boating, fishing, and trails all within Jackson County’s beautiful Fleming Park.

Recommended For:

Outdoor adventurers, families, boaters, anglers, and anyone looking to unplug in scenic surroundings close to home.

What I Love:

Calm, expansive lake views, well-kept trails, easy boat rentals, and plenty of fish just waiting to be caught.
  • Boat across 970 acres of lake surface with pontoon and sailboat rentals available at the full-service marina.
  • Fish for largemouth and striped bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, and bluegill—three public boat ramps make it easy.
  • Camp overnight in Fleming Park’s designated campgrounds and wake up lakeside.
  • Hike scenic nature trails like the 1.5-mile Rock Ledges Trail or the shaded 1.2-mile Pa-Huska Trail for a breath of fresh air.

Distance from Kansas City:

Just a 30-minute drive southeast—ideal for day trips or quick camping escapes.

How to Get to Lake Jacomo:

Take I-470 East to Woods Chapel Road, then follow signs to Fleming Park and the Lake Jacomo Marina entrance.

Family Day Trips from Kansas City:

8. Lawrence - a 45-minute drive

Lawrence - a 45-minute drive

© Courtesy of jzehnder - Fotolia.com

Location:

Lawrence, KS

Highlights:

If you’re after a cool college-town vibe with deep history, great art, and killer live music, Lawrence checks all the boxes. It’s close enough for a spontaneous trip, but packed with enough to keep you exploring all day.

Recommended For:

Music fans, art lovers, history buffs, college town explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

What I Love:

Energetic live venues, meaningful cultural museums, and the unexpected mix of lakeside chill and university pride.
  • Catch a show at iconic venues like The Granada, The Bottleneck, or Replay Lounge, known for hosting both legends and locals.
  • Browse cultural gems like the Spencer Museum of Art, the Watkins Museum of History, and the Haskell Cultural Center celebrating indigenous heritage.
  • Tour University of Kansas landmarks including the Dole Institute and basketball heritage exhibits.
  • Relax at Clinton Lake State Park with boating, camping, or a sunset picnic by the water.

Distance from Kansas City:

Around a 45-minute drive west—perfect for a vibrant afternoon or full weekend getaway.

How to Get to Lawrence:

Take I-70 West to the US-59 South exit, then follow signs into downtown Lawrence or to the KU campus.

9. Leavenworth - a 30-minute drive

Leavenworth - a 30-minute drive

© Courtesy of Jon - Fotolia.com

Location:

Leavenworth, KS

Highlights:

If you're looking for history, charm, and river views just minutes from Kansas City, Leavenworth offers a fascinating window into Kansas' earliest days. It’s a quick trip packed with stories that shaped the region.

Recommended For:

History enthusiasts, cultural travelers, families, and anyone who enjoys exploring historic small towns.

What I Love:

Fort Leavenworth’s legacy, vibrant African-American heritage museums, and the hand-carved beauty of a restored antique carousel.
  • Tour Fort Leavenworth, founded in 1827, to explore exhibits connected to westward expansion and Civil War-era freedom seekers.
  • Visit the Richard Allen Cultural Center to learn about the contributions of African-American pioneers and military heroes.
  • Ride the hand-carved C.W. Parker Carousel, a beautiful piece of Americana restored for public enjoyment.
  • Stroll through the 28-block downtown district filled with unique local shops, cafés, and hidden gems.

Distance from Kansas City:

Just a 30-minute drive northwest, making it a super easy half-day or weekend outing.

How to Get to Leavenworth:

Take I-435 North to KS-5 North. Follow signs along the Missouri River into downtown Leavenworth.

📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

  • What is Kansas City known for?
    • Kansas City is Missouri’s largest city, known nationwide for its rich jazz music heritage and world-famous barbecue.
  • What are some great day trips from Kansas City?
    • The following towns and attractions make the perfect day-trip getaway from Kansas City, showcasing famous historic sites, unique art collections, and a wide variety of opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Best Time for Day Trips from Kansas City, Missouri:

  • March to May – Spring brings blooming gardens, mild weather, and ideal conditions for parks, wineries, and small-town strolls.
  • June to August – Summer is perfect for lake escapes, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions—start early to beat the heat.
  • September to October – Enjoy cooler temps, vibrant foliage, apple orchards, and scenic countryside drives.
  • November – Crisp, calm days are great for museums, local eats, and exploring quiet main streets.
  • December to February – Winter offers festive charm, cozy cafés, and peaceful getaways to historic towns and nature spots.

Plan Your Trip