12 Best Day Trips in Kansas for a Fun Weekend Escape

It doesn't matter if it’s the weekend or you simply need to get away for a day, we’ve got you covered with some of the best day trips in Kansas. The Sunflower State is home to some pretty incredible sights and landmarks, which make for the most unique adventures. We've made a list of some of the best weekend escapes in Kansas. From small towns to Route 66, here are several destinations to enjoy your time off to the fullest.

1. Route 66

If you are planning to motor west, you may as well just take the highway—that's the best! Get your kicks on Route 66 in Kansas by stopping off for lunch and shopping in the historic towns of Galena, Baxter Springs, and Riverton. There's so much to see along the 13-mile stretch of Route 66 in Kansas!

2. Fort Scott

Fort Scott is the epitome of a charming small town in the U.S., with its lovely architecture, roaming trolley, and area museums that explain the historical significance of this wonderful town. It's certainly worth a day trip or an overnight getaway.

3. Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway

Are you looking to reap all the benefits of a road trip without even leaving the comfort of your air-conditioned car? Just hop on the 77-mile Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway, which connects drivers with views of some of the most beautiful wetlands and native animals in the state. Depending on what time of year you take this drive, you'll be able to see flocks of migratory birds.

4. Hutchinson

Who loves a good museum? Well, I certainly do, and Hutchinson is home to SEVERAL must-visit museums in Kansas, including the impressive Cosmosphere and Strataca. Not to mention, this town is also home to some killer burgers and BBQ joints.

5. Abilene

Speaking of museums, Abilene is where you will find many of the best in the nation, including the wonderful Dwight D. Eisenhower Library and Museum. Did you also know that Abilene is home to the nostalgic Abilene & Smoky Valley Excursion Train, which takes its passengers on a 10-mile trip through the Smoky River Hill Valley? There is no need to search for road trips near me in Kansas when that attraction is nearby.

6. Atchison

Tour the birthplace of Kansas's favorite girl (no, not Dorothy ... we're talking about Amelia!), discover a haunt or two, and shop around the quaint downtown area of this northeast Kansas treasure.

7. Wamego

... however, if you do prefer Dorothy over Amelia, you may want to make a trip to the memorable Oz Museum (one of the best must-visit museums in Kansas!), Toto's Tacoz, and Oz Winery in lovely Wamego. Make sure you save plenty of time to visit the stunning Wamego City Park as well.

8. Hays

There is so much more to love about my favorite college town (favorite because that's where I went to school!) than just Fort Hays State University! In fact, there is a brick-paved downtown area (complete with a fabulous microbrewery), an impressive Sternberg Museum of Natural History, inexpensive and fun Larks Baseball games, and so much more. No wonder Hays is known as one of the most charming small towns in Kansas.

9. Lindsborg

Do you want to leave the country without ever setting foot outside of Kansas? It is possible when you visit Lindsborg, also known as Little Sweden, U.S.A. This small town is certainly one of the best day trips in Kansas. While visiting, you can enjoy authentic Swedish cuisine, unique shopping, and a different cultural surprise at every turn (like these traditionally painted Dala Horses).

10. Council Grove

Experience the Flint Hills life in historic Council Grove, which was at one time the final stop along the southwest-bound Santa Fe Trail. (A fact on which the town prides itself with several beautiful monuments, historic buildings, and one-of-a-kind festivals.) While you're in the area, make plans to also swing by ...

11. Cottonwood Falls

... the equally historic (and lovely) Cottonwood Falls. This small town is also home to several nature hikes and waterfalls. When visiting Cottonwood Falls, make sure you explore the unique and beautiful downtown area.

12. Lucas

The town of Lucas may be small with a population of approximately 400, but it is one of the most colorful towns in Kansas with its numerous grassroots art exhibits, including the Garden of Eden, the World's Largest Collection of Smallest Versions of Largest Things, and the actual Grassroots Art Center.

Each of the above destinations in Kansas makes for the perfect day trip or weekend escape—there really is so much to love in the Sunflower State. If you are looking for even more travel inspiration, make sure to check out these road trip ideas in Kansas, as well as some of the best vacation rentals that people tend to book on repeat. And, if you are like us and want to spend as much time as possible exploring the natural beauty of the Sunflower State, check out some of the best trails in Kansas. These hikes make for some excellent Kansas day trip ideas.