The Ultimate Kansas Family Road Trip: History, Outdoor Adventures & Small-Town Charm
Arrive in Kansas City & Explore
Fly into Kansas City International Airport (MCI) - Just outside Kansas City, KS.
Top Things to Do in Kansas City (KS Side)
- Visit the Strawberry Hill MuseumA historic mansion showcasing Eastern European heritage.
- Check Out the Village West Entertainment DistrictHome to Kansas Speedway and Legends Outlets.
- Try Famous Kansas City BBQJoe's Kansas City BBQ is a must!
- Catch a Sporting KC Soccer Game (If in Season).
Overnight in Kansas City, KS.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve & Flint Hills
Drive from Kansas City to Strong City (2 hours).
Top Things to Do at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
- Hike the Scenic Prairie TrailsExperience the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystem in North America.
- Look for Free-Roaming BisonThe preserve has a wild bison herd!
- Tour the Historic Spring Hill Ranch House & Barn.
Top Things to Do in Council Grove
- Visit the Kaw Mission State Historic SiteTelling the story of early settlers and Native Americans.
- Enjoy a Sunset at Council Grove Lake.
Drive to Council Grove (30 minutes).
Overnight in Council Grove or Cottonwood Falls.
Wichita - Museums & Old West History
Drive from Council Grove to Wichita (1.5 hours).
Top Things to Do in Wichita
- Visit the Old Cowtown MuseumA living history museum showcasing the 1800s Wild West.
- Explore the Keeper of the Plains PlazaA stunning riverfront landmark.
- Check Out the Museum of World TreasuresSee real dinosaur fossils & Egyptian mummies!
- Enjoy Dinner & Drinks in Old Town WichitaThe city's vibrant historic district.
Overnight in Wichita.
Dodge City - Wild West Adventure
Drive from Wichita to Dodge City (3 hours).
Top Things to Do in Dodge City
- Explore Boot Hill MuseumA Wild West town replica with reenactments.
- Visit the Long Branch SaloonExperience a historic Old West bar.
- Walk the Dodge City Trail of FameLearn about famous outlaws & lawmen.
- Try Your Luck at Boot Hill Casino (Optional).
Overnight in Dodge City.
Monument Rocks & Little Jerusalem Badlands
Drive from Dodge City to Monument Rocks (2.5 hours).
Top Things to Do at Monument Rocks
- See the Famous Chalk PyramidsStunning rock formations rising out of the prairie.
- Catch Sunrise or Sunset for the Best Views.
Top Things to Do at Little Jerusalem
- Hike the Overlook TrailIncredible views of unique rock formations.
- Watch for Prairie Falcons & Wildlife.
Drive to Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park (30 minutes).
Overnight in Oakley or Hays.
Mushroom Rock State Park & Rock City
Drive from Oakley to Mushroom Rock State Park (2 hours).
Top Things to Do
- See the Mushroom-Shaped Rock FormationsOne of the smallest state parks in the U.S.!
- Explore Rock CityOver 200 massive Dakota sandstone boulders scattered across a prairie landscape.
Top Things to Do in Abilene
- Visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum.
- Tour the Seelye MansionA Grand Gilded-Age Estate.
Drive to Salina or Abilene (45 minutes).
Overnight in Abilene or Salina.
Back to Kansas City & Depart
Drive from Abilene to Kansas City (2 hours).
Optional Stops Along the Way
- Visit the National World War I Museum in Kansas City.
- See Arrowhead Stadium or Kauffman Stadium (Home of the Chiefs & Royals).
- Grab One More Plate of Kansas City BBQ!
Fly out of Kansas City International Airport (MCI).
Ready to plan your Kansas trip?
Dave will build a custom itinerary and find the best options for your budget and travel style.
Tell Me About Your TripHeader photo: Larry Mills, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.