7-Day Kansas Itinerary

A mix of prairie landscapes, historic sites, small-town charm, and outdoor adventures.

The Ultimate Kansas Family Road Trip: History, Outdoor Adventures & Small-Town Charm

Day1

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.

Day2

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.

Day3

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.

Day4

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.

Day5

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.

Day6

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.

Day7

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?

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Header photo: Larry Mills, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.