Day trips from Lawrence

From Lawrence, Kansas

Lawrence, Kansas, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of day trip opportunities within driving distance. From scenic natural attractions to historic towns and cultural sites, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking to explore state parks, enjoy adventure sports, or indulge in local cuisine, these day trips offer a mix of experiences that will make your time away from Lawrence unforgettable.

1. Kansas City, Missouri

📍 40 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Kansas City is a bustling metropolis just a short drive from Lawrence, offering a blend of urban excitement and cultural richness. Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, explore the historic West Bottoms, or enjoy a world-class meal at one of the city's renowned restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the Country Club Plaza, known for its unique architecture and vibrant shopping scene.

What to See & Do:

  • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
  • West Bottoms historic district
  • Country Club Plaza
  • BBQ dining experiences

2. Topeka, Kansas

📍 60 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Topeka, the capital of Kansas, is a charming city with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Visit the Kansas State Capitol, explore the Kansas Museum of History, or take a stroll through the beautiful Gage Park. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the city's many local eateries, offering a taste of Kansas cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Kansas State Capitol
  • Kansas Museum of History
  • Gage Park
  • Local dining experiences

3. Bonner Springs, Kansas

📍 30 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Half day

Bonner Springs is a small town with a big personality, offering a variety of outdoor activities and adventure sports. Zip KC offers a range of tours, including the Hike & Zip, Tower Tour, and Ninja Training Obstacle Tour. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a picnic at the beautiful Edward C. Little Park or explore the historic downtown area.

What to See & Do:

  • Zip KC tours
  • Edward C. Little Park
  • Historic downtown
  • Local dining options

4. Weston, Missouri

📍 85 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Weston is a quaint historic town with a rich past and a variety of attractions. Visit the Weston Bend State Park for stunning views of the Missouri River, explore the historic downtown area, or enjoy a meal at one of the town's many local eateries. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Weston Bend Brewing Company for a taste of local craft beer.

What to See & Do:

  • Weston Bend State Park
  • Historic downtown
  • Local dining options
  • Weston Bend Brewing Company

5. St. Joseph, Missouri

📍 120 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

St. Joseph is a historic city with a rich past and a variety of attractions. Visit the Pony Express National Museum, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Krug Park. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Missouri River Country, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views.

What to See & Do:

  • Pony Express National Museum
  • Historic downtown
  • Krug Park
  • Missouri River Country

6. Atchison, Kansas

📍 100 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Atchison is a charming small town with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Visit the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Riverfront Park. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the town's many local eateries, offering a taste of Kansas cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum
  • Historic downtown
  • Riverfront Park
  • Local dining options

7. Leavenworth, Kansas

📍 50 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Leavenworth is a historic city with a rich past and a variety of attractions. Visit the Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Riverfront Park. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the city's many local eateries, offering a taste of Kansas cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery
  • Historic downtown
  • Riverfront Park
  • Local dining options

8. Olathe, Kansas

📍 30 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Half day

Olathe is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions and activities. Visit the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Mahaffie Park. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the city's many local eateries, offering a taste of Kansas cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm
  • Historic downtown
  • Mahaffie Park
  • Local dining options

9. Independence, Missouri

📍 60 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Independence is a historic city with a rich past and a variety of attractions. Visit the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Independence Square. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the city's many local eateries, offering a taste of Missouri cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum
  • Historic downtown
  • Independence Square
  • Local dining options

10. Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri

📍 200 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a stunning natural attraction offering a variety of outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking, canoeing, or fishing along the beautiful Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the many caves and bluffs in the area, offering breathtaking views and a unique experience.

What to See & Do:

  • Hiking trails
  • Canoeing and fishing
  • Caves and bluffs
  • Scenic river views

11. Springfield, Missouri

📍 180 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Springfield is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions and activities. Visit the Springfield Art Museum, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the city's many local eateries, offering a taste of Missouri cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Springfield Art Museum
  • Historic downtown
  • Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
  • Local dining options

12. Branson, Missouri

📍 225 miles from Lawrence⏱️ Full day

Branson is a popular tourist destination offering a variety of attractions and activities. Visit the Titanic Museum, explore the historic downtown area, or take a stroll through the beautiful Branson Landing. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the city's many local eateries, offering a taste of Missouri cuisine.

What to See & Do:

  • Titanic Museum
  • Historic downtown
  • Branson Landing
  • Local dining options

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