MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Kansas City

Day Trips from Kansas City

Kansas City Missouri, USA Travel Guide

Independence, Missouri

Home to the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, giving thorough insights into the 33rd President's life and legacy. Visit the National Frontier Trails Museum to explore westward expansion. Discover historic Independence Square, featuring charming shops, restaurants, and the heritage courthouse. The Community of Christ Temple and the Latter Day Saints Visitors Center also give historical and spiritual insights.

A half-day to full-day visit allows you to explore the Truman Library, stroll around Independence Square, and perhaps go one other museum.

Travel Details

  • Mainly by car (20-30 min east).
  • Limited local bus service from Kansas City.
  • Flexible independent travel.

Further Excursions

Expand your regional exploration with these charming towns.

Weston, Missouri

A charming 19th-century river town with a rich history. Find local wineries (e.g., Weston Wine Company), distilleries (e.g., Holladay Distillery), antique shops, and unique boutiques. Weston Bend State Park has hiking trails and scenic views of the Missouri River.

Visit Information

  • Relaxing half-day trip.
  • Best by car (45 min north).
  • Enjoy tastings and shopping.

Lawrence, Kansas

A university town. Its historic downtown, Massachusetts Street, features unique shops, art galleries, and a lively arts and dining scene. Discover the university campus, including the Spencer Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum.

Visit Information

  • Full-day trip.
  • Approx. 45-60 min drive west.
  • Reachable via Amtrak (less frequent).

St. Joseph, Missouri

Historical Sites

  • Pony Express National Museum
  • Jesse James Home Museum
  • Glore Psychiatric Museum (unique perspective)
  • Full-day trip, 1-hour drive north.

Transportation & Travel Style

  • Travel by Car:Most flexibility
  • Amtrak Service:Less frequent schedules (e.g., Lawrence)
  • Local Bus:Limited routes (e.g., Independence)
  • Organized Tours:Limited availability, greater convenience

Optimized Exploration

For multiple day trips, renting a car for a few days offers the best convenience and covers more ground efficiently.

Natural Escapes

For those seeking a break from urban life, the Kansas City region features various natural escapes with occasions for outdoor recreation.

Lake Jacomo

A large lake south of Kansas City, popular for boating, fishing, and hiking. It has several picnic areas, a marina, and extensive parkland.

Smithville Lake

Located north of the city, this sizable recreational lake provides comprehensive parkland, beaches, and campgrounds. It gives opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and rambling on its numerous trails.

Powell Gardens

Kansas City's botanical garden (approx. 45 min east) has 175 acres of themed gardens, including prairie, rock and waterfall, and edible landscapes. It features seasonal displays and events.

Scenic Landscapes

The area encircling the City Of fountains city area has rolling hills, agricultural lands, and river valleys.

Highlights

  • October fall foliage in Weston Bend State Park.
  • Grinter Farms Sunflower Field (late summer/early fall).

Rural Areas & Lakes

The Kansas City region is not coastal or mountainous. However, you discover accessible rural areas with farms and small towns within easy driving distance.

Experiences

  • Sandy beaches at lakes during summer.
  • Explore charming little towns and farms.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Fall Foliage:October in Weston Bend State Park.
Sunflower Fields:Grinter Farms (late summer/early fall).

Outdoor Comfort

  • Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks for lake trips or Powell Gardens.
  • Stay refreshed during outdoor excursions.

Cultural Excursions

Expand your cultural horizons with visits to historical sites and rural communities beyond Kansas City's core.

Historical Sites

Explore architectural marvels and important moments in history.

Noteworthy Sites

  • Vaile Mansion (Independence, MO): 19th-century Victorian opulence.
  • Jesse James Home (Kearney, MO): Site of the outlaw's death.
  • Battle of Lexington State Historic Site: Civil War history.

Rural Villages

Numerous little towns surround Kansas City, giving a glimpse into rural Midwestern life.

Charming Communities

  • Excelsior Springs: Known for its historic mineral waters.
  • Parkville: A historic river town with a relaxed atmosphere.

Pilgrimage Sites

Independence, Missouri, holds historical and spiritual significance for members of the Latter Day Saint movement.

Spiritual Heritage

  • Community of Christ Temple
  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Visitors Center
  • Sites related to the movement's early history

Rural Charm & Heritage

Discover the character of smaller towns and significant sites.

Excelsior Springs

Explore this town known for its historic mineral waters and charming atmosphere.

Parkville

A historic river town offering a quieter, relaxed atmosphere with unique shops.

Independence Spiritual Sites

Visit the Community of Christ Temple and Latter Day Saints Visitors Center.

Plan Ahead

Before visiting smaller towns, check their local tourism websites for any unique events, festivals, or special opening hours for attractions.

Multi-Day Extensions

For travelers with more time, consider extending your trip to explore other major Midwestern cities.

Regional City Highlights

1

St. Louis, Missouri

Iconic Gateway Arch National Park, sprawling Forest Park (home to free zoo and museums). Rich blend of history, culture, and family-friendly attractions.

2

Omaha, Nebraska

World-renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, historic Old Market district. A different Midwestern urban experience with an impressive zoo and revitalized historic areas.

3

Branson, Missouri

Known as the "Live Entertainment Capital," Silver Dollar City theme park, Ozark Lakes. Ideal for families entertainment, live shows, and theme parks.

Transportation Connections

  • Car: All destinations easily accessible via interstate highways, offering non-stop and open-ended travel.
  • Amtrak: Train connections to St. Louis and Omaha, a relaxed travel option (schedules vary).
  • Bus: Long-distance bus services also connect Kansas City to these cities.

Suggested Regional Routes

  • Missouri Loop: Kansas City to St. Louis and back (or departure from St. Louis).
  • North to Nebraska: Kansas City to Omaha, with stops in charming little towns.
  • South to the Ozarks: Kansas City to Branson and its surrounding natural beauty.

Logical Next Destinations

St. Louis

A different urban vibe with deep history and culture.

Omaha

A world-class zoo and historic charm blend for an unique experience.

Branson

Entertainment and nature lovers enjoy this hub of exhibitions and outdoor recreation.

Diverse Journeys

Plan multi-day extensions with a focus on contrasting experiences. Combine Kansas City's urban culture with entertainment and nature.