1. Abilene - just a 30-minute drive from Salina
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Location:
Abilene, KSHighlights:
If you’re looking for a quick day trip with charm, history, and a touch of Americana, Abilene is an easy pick. Just east of Salina, this historic town is packed with fascinating landmarks and small-town heart.Recommended For:
History buffs, train lovers, families, and anyone planning a fun and educational Kansas road trip.What I Love: ♥
Its authentic Old West feel, impressive presidential history, and that nostalgic train ride that brings history to life.- Tour the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, honoring the life and legacy of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who grew up here.
- Marvel at the elegance of the Seelye Mansion, a 1905 historic home with over 25 rooms and original Edison fixtures.
- Learn about racing history at the Greyhound Hall of Fame and explore local culture at the Heritage Center and other city museums.
- Ride the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s Excursion Train, available on summer weekends, for a scenic journey back in time.
Distance from Salina:
Just a 30-minute drive (about 27 miles east).How to Get to Abilene:
Take I-70 E from Salina. Exit at Abilene (Exit 275) and follow signs into town—everything's within easy reach.2. Atchison - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Kansas City
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Location:
Atchison, KSHighlights:
If you're craving a mix of history, small-town charm, and riverside views, Atchison is a surprisingly fun day trip. From trolley tours to museums and art stops, there's plenty to explore in just one visit.Recommended For:
History enthusiasts, museum lovers, art fans, and anyone who enjoys discovering Kansas gems with rich character.What I Love: ♥
The well-preserved architecture, the depth of historic attractions, and the balance of culture, nature, and shopping.- Hop on the Trolley Tour for a guided introduction to Atchison’s most historic and notable sites.
- Visit the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum and the Atchison Rail Museum to dive into local and national history.
- Admire works at the Muchnic Art Gallery, housed in a beautifully preserved Queen Anne-style mansion.
- Stroll along Commercial Street for boutique shopping or unwind with a riverside walk at Riverfront Park.
Distance from Kansas City:
Roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes northwest by car.How to Get to Atchison:
Take I-435 N or I-70 W (depending on starting point) to US-73 N. Follow US-73 directly into Atchison’s historic downtown district.3. Cottonwood Falls - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Wichita
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Location:
Cottonwood Falls, KSHighlights:
If you’re craving wide-open skies, rolling hills, and true small-town charm, Cottonwood Falls might be your new favorite Kansas escape. This ranching town is the real deal—and the scenic drive to get there is half the fun.Recommended For:
Road trippers, artists, nature lovers, history fans, and anyone looking to slow down and soak in Kansas hospitality.What I Love: ♥
The picturesque setting in the Flint Hills, the historic architecture, and the laid-back, welcoming vibe.- Drive the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway—a peaceful, beautiful route through tallgrass prairie landscapes.
- Wander the historic downtown for boutique shops, friendly locals, and a classic small-town Kansas feel.
- Explore the Historical Museum, admire art galleries, and don’t miss the Chase County Courthouse, one of the oldest still in use in the U.S.
- Golf at the Cottonwood Falls Country Club, where visitors are welcome to play a round.
- Stay overnight in a charming inn or bed & breakfast and wake up surrounded by prairie serenity.
Distance from Wichita:
About 1 hour and 30 minutes northeast by car.How to Get to Cottonwood Falls:
Follow US-50 E to Strong City, then take K-177 south along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway—Cottonwood Falls is just a few minutes away.4. Council Grove - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Topeka
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Location:
Council Grove, KSHighlights:
If you love history and scenic drives, Council Grove is a must-stop on your Kansas road trip. Nestled where the Santa Fe Trail meets the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, this town blends rich heritage with prairie beauty.Recommended For:
History lovers, road trippers, hikers, cyclists, and anyone seeking a charming mix of culture and countryside.What I Love: ♥
The abundance of historic sites, the walkable downtown full of charm, and the access to Flint Hills nature trails.- Explore over 25 historic sites, including the 1857 Hays House Restaurant and the 1849 Terwilliger House.
- Wander through the downtown historic district and discover a mix of old-world charm and modern flair.
- Hike or walk through the nearby Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve to experience Kansas' natural beauty up close.
- Bike along stretches of the Santé Fe Trail for a scenic and active adventure.
- Shop for local finds and art in the galleries and boutiques along Main Street.
Distance from Topeka:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes southwest by car.How to Get to Council Grove:
Take I-70 W to US-56 W or follow K-177 S through the Flint Hills for a more scenic drive—Council Grove is easy to find and worth the detour.5. Dodge City - 2 hours and 45 minutes from Wichita
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Location:
Dodge City, KSHighlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to step straight into the Wild West, Dodge City delivers with full-on cowboy flair. It’s one of Kansas' most legendary towns and perfect for a day of adventure, history, and a little whiskey at sunset.Recommended For:
Western history buffs, adventurous couples, road trippers, and anyone who’s always wanted to "get the heck out of Dodge."What I Love: ♥
The immersive Western experiences, the blend of guided and DIY touring options, and the chance to sip spirits where outlaws once roamed.- Hop aboard the Dodge City Trolley for an engaging, interactive tour through the town’s colorful past.
- Explore at your own pace with a self-guided tour map from the Visitor’s Center.
- Step back into the Old West at the Gunfighter’s Wax Museum, Boot Hill, and the iconic Boot Hill Cemetery.
- Unwind at Boot Hill Distillery for small-batch spirits or enjoy local craft beers at the Dodge City Brewing Company.
- Experience the town's saloon culture with a lively evening at one of its classic Western bars.
Distance from Wichita:
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes west by car.How to Get to Dodge City:
Take US-400 W or US-50 W from Wichita, then follow signs into Dodge City—just be ready for a step into the past.Romantic Kansas Day Trips:
6. Fairway - just 15 minutes from KC
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Location:
Fairway, KSHighlights:
Looking for a history-rich day trip without leaving the KC metro? Fairway is a low-effort, high-reward destination that blends heritage sites with relaxing parks and family-friendly fun.Recommended For:
Local explorers, families with kids, history lovers, and anyone wanting a peaceful break close to Kansas City.What I Love: ♥
Its easy access from the city, the significance of the Shawnee Indian Mission, and the calm, green outdoor spaces perfect for all ages.- Visit the Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic Site, located at the crossroads of the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails, and dive into its Civil War-era history.
- Unwind at Peterson Park with a quiet picnic or a leisurely stroll through its open spaces.
- Cool off in summer at the Fairway Pool, a perfect way to refresh during your visit.
- Let the kids play at Westwood Park, where a well-kept playground and fresh air make for a stress-free afternoon.
Distance from Downtown Kansas City:
Just 15 minutes southwest by car—no need to pack snacks for the ride!How to Get to Fairway:
Take Shawnee Mission Parkway west, or follow Mission Road south—either route gets you there in under 20 minutes from most KC neighborhoods.7. Fort Scott - 1 hour and 40 minutes from Kansas City
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Location:
Fort Scott, KSHighlights:
If you're in the mood for a blend of fascinating history and fresh air, Fort Scott hits the mark. It’s an easy-going day trip that offers trolley tours, scenic parks, and some seriously powerful stories.Recommended For:
History buffs, families, active travelers, and anyone who enjoys learning while exploring outdoors.What I Love: ♥
The strong sense of place, wide-open green spaces, and meaningful museums that shed light on Kansas’ rich cultural and historical roots.- Tour the Fort Scott National Historic Site to discover the town’s pivotal role in westward expansion and military history.
- Ride the narrated Trolley Tour or opt for a Historic Downtown Walking Tour using a downloadable map.
- Visit the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes and the Gordon Parks Museum—both offer powerful insights into American history and civil rights.
- Unplug with hiking or biking at Gunn Park, a serene outdoor area great for stretching your legs.
- Relax with a casual round of golf before heading home refreshed and inspired.
Distance from Kansas City:
Roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes south by car.How to Get to Fort Scott:
Take US-69 S from Kansas City straight into Fort Scott—easy, direct, and scenic enough to feel like an escape.8. Hays - 1 hour and 20 minutes from Salina
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Location:
Hays, KSHighlights:
If you’re looking for a fun, easy family day trip packed with history, fossils, and fresh air, Hays is a top pick. Just an hour west of central Kansas, this town delivers with kid-friendly museums, walkable downtowns, and plenty of outdoor space.Recommended For:
Families, museum lovers, history buffs, and active travelers who enjoy combining learning and leisure.What I Love: ♥
The dynamic mix of dinosaurs and pioneer heritage, the walkable and vibrant historic downtown, and the outdoor trails perfect for biking or skating.- Discover prehistoric wonders at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, featuring live animals, interactive exhibits, and fascinating dinosaur fossils.
- Step back into pioneer days at the Ellis County Historical Museum to learn about Kansas’ early settlers.
- Explore the Downtown Hays Historic District with a self-guided walking tour—use a downloadable guide to uncover stories behind restored buildings now home to shops, art centers, and eateries.
- Get active with walking, cycling, or skating at several parks and nature trails around the city.
Distance from Salina:
About 1 hour and 20 minutes west by car.How to Get to Hays:
Take I-70 W for a straight and simple route right into town—easy to reach and full of surprises when you arrive.Family-friendly Kansas Day Trips:
9. Hillsboro - 1 hour north from Wichita
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Location:
Hillsboro, KSHighlights:
If you’re in the mood for nature, history, and lakefront fun all in one place, Hillsboro is a hidden gem at the edge of the Flint Hills. It’s the perfect blend of relaxing outdoor experiences and small-town charm, just a short drive from the city.Recommended For:
Nature-loving families, history enthusiasts, anglers, campers, and road trippers looking for a peaceful and scenic day away.What I Love: ♥
The easy access to Marion Reservoir Lake, the family-friendly Willow Walk trail, and the way Hillsboro effortlessly mixes prairie history with modern comforts like craft beer.- Play at Marion Reservoir Lake with great fishing, picnic areas, campgrounds, and boat ramps perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
- Hike the Willow Walk Nature Trail—a 1-mile scenic path ideal for wildlife spotting and gentle family walks.
- Explore the area’s history at the Pioneer Adobe House Museum and Historic Schaeffler House.
- Unwind at a local craft brewery for a refreshing post-adventure drink.
Distance from Wichita:
Approximately 1 hour north by car.How to Get to Hillsboro:
Take I-135 N to US-56 E, then follow signs to Hillsboro—gateway to the Flint Hills and your next favorite lake day.Plan Your Trip