Road Trips in Kansas | Day Trips in Kansas
What Kansas is Known For: Vast prairies, historic trails, and classic Americana.
Kansas’ Nickname: The Sunflower State
Kansas’ Official Hobby: Birdwatching
Kansas’ Most Popular State Park: Wilson State Park | Sylvan Grove, Kansas
The sunflower state offers a variety of opportunities for Kansas road trips, from its scenic prairies to charming small towns and historic landmarks. Whether you’re exploring its natural beauty, historic sites, or vibrant cities, Kansas promises a delightful and memorable journey.
Start your journey in Wichita, the state’s largest city known for its rich aviation history and cultural attractions. Visit the Sedgwick County Zoo, explore the Museum of World Treasures, and stroll through the beautiful Botanica, The Wichita Gardens. Don’t miss the Old Cowtown Museum, which offers a glimpse into the city’s Old West past.
Drive to the historic town of Dodge City, known for its Wild West heritage. Visit the Boot Hill Museum to learn about the town’s cowboy history, explore the historic Front Street, and enjoy a meal at the Central Station Bar & Grill, a local favorite.
Head to the picturesque town of Lindsborg, also known as “Little Sweden, USA.” Explore the town’s rich Swedish heritage at the Swedish Pavilion, visit the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, and enjoy traditional Swedish pastries at the Old Grind.
Don’t miss the scenic beauty of the Flint Hills, one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems in North America. Visit the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve for hiking and stunning views, and explore the nearby town of Cottonwood Falls, which offers charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Kansas’s scenic byways, such as the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Medicine Lodge and Coldwater. In Medicine Lodge, visit the Carry Nation Home and Museum, and in Coldwater, enjoy outdoor activities at Coldwater Lake.
Kansas Road Trip Checklist
Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!
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Top Road Trip Routes in Kansas
1. The Prairie Adventure
Route: I-70
Cities: Topeka, Manhattan, Abilene
Attractions: Kansas State Capitol, Flint Hills Discovery Center, Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home
2. The Wild West Journey
Route: US-50
Cities: Dodge City, Garden City, Cimarron
Attractions: Boot Hill Museum, Lee Richardson Zoo, Santa Fe Trail Tracks
3. The Swedish Heritage Trail
Route: I-135
Cities: Lindsborg, Salina, McPherson
Attractions: Swedish Pavilion, Smoky Hill Museum, McPherson Opera House
4. The Scenic Flint Hills Drive
Route: K-177
Cities: Council Grove, Cottonwood Falls, Strong City
Attractions: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Kaw Mission State Historic Site, Chase County Courthouse
Best Times to Visit
Kansas experiences four distinct seasons, offering unique opportunities throughout the year.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for exploring state parks, attending festivals, and visiting historic sites, though it can be hot and humid.
- Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in the Flint Hills and along scenic byways.
- Winter (December to February): Best for indoor cultural activities and visiting museums, with mild winter weather compared to northern states.
Local Cuisine
Kansas’s culinary scene features hearty Midwestern fare and delicious regional dishes. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:
- Kansas City BBQ: Try the mouthwatering BBQ at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Kansas City, a local favorite.
- Bierocks: Enjoy these delicious meat-filled pastries at The Breadbasket in Newton.
- Fried Chicken: Savor the famous fried chicken at Brookville Hotel in Abilene.
- Sweet Corn: Visit Gaeddert Farms Sweet Corn in Buhler for fresh, locally grown sweet corn, especially during the summer months.
- Runza: Try this hearty sandwich at Runza in various locations, known for its unique blend of beef, cabbage, and spices.
Most Unique Stays in Kansas
- Clover Cliff Ranch Bed & Breakfast
- Location: Elmdale, Kansas
- What makes it unique?: A historic ranch offering elegant accommodations, stunning views of the Flint Hills, and a peaceful retreat in a beautiful setting.
- The Elms Hotel & Spa
- Location: Excelsior Springs, Kansas
- What makes it unique?: A luxurious spa resort with a rich history, offering modern amenities, elegant rooms, and a variety of wellness treatments.
- Prairie Fire Winery & Vineyards
- Location: Paxico, Kansas
- What makes it unique?: A charming winery offering unique accommodations in a vineyard setting, complete with wine tastings and beautiful views.
- Historic Wolf Hotel
- Location: Ellinwood, Kansas
- What makes it unique?: A beautifully restored historic hotel offering comfortable rooms and a glimpse into Kansas’s rich history.
- Circle S Ranch & Country Inn
- Location: Lawrence, Kansas
- What makes it unique?: A rustic yet elegant country inn offering cozy accommodations, beautiful landscapes, and a true Kansas ranch experience.
Travel Tips
- Explore Local Festivals: Kansas hosts numerous festivals, such as the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson and the Symphony in the Flint Hills. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.
- Scenic Byways: Take advantage of Kansas’s scenic byways for a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
- Historic Sites: Many of Kansas’s historic sites offer guided tours. Check the schedules and book in advance to make the most of your visit.
- Weather Preparedness: Kansas weather can vary greatly. Pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions, especially if traveling through different regions of the state.