Day trips from Wichita
From Wichita, Kansas
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Wichita, Kansas, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of attractions. However, the surrounding region offers a wealth of day trip opportunities that cater to diverse interests. From the natural beauty of state parks and scenic drives to the charm of historic towns and the thrill of adventure sports, there's something for everyone within a 175-mile radius. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in local cuisine, or immerse yourself in cultural and historic sites, these day trips from Wichita promise an unforgettable experience.
1. Bonner Springs
Located just 30 miles from Wichita, Bonner Springs offers a variety of outdoor activities and adventure sports. Zip KC provides several exciting tours, including the Hike & Zip, Tower Tour, Ninja Training Obstacle Tour, Sunset Date Night Tour, Ultimate Adventure Tour, and Night Flight Tower Tour. These tours cater to different skill levels and interests, making it a perfect destination for friends looking for a thrilling day out.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hike & Zip Tour
- ✓Tower Tour
- ✓Ninja Training Obstacle Tour
- ✓Sunset Date Night Tour
- ✓Ultimate Adventure Tour
- ✓Night Flight Tower Tour
2. Council Grove
Council Grove, located about 80 miles from Wichita, is a historic town that offers a glimpse into the past. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Council Grove National Historic Landmark and the Kaw Mission. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities at the Council Grove State Park, which features hiking trails, fishing, and camping. The town's charming downtown area is perfect for a leisurely stroll and shopping.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Council Grove National Historic Landmark
- ✓Kaw Mission
- ✓Council Grove State Park
- ✓Historic Downtown Shopping
3. Kansas City
Kansas City, located about 175 miles from Wichita, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Zoo, and the Kansas City Museum. Foodies will love the city's famous barbecue joints and the River Market, which offers a variety of dining options. For those interested in sports, the city is home to several professional sports teams.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- ✓Kansas City Zoo
- ✓Kansas City Museum
- ✓Barbecue Dining
4. Wamego
Wamego, located about 50 miles from Wichita, is a charming small town with a rich history. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Wamego City Hall and the Wamego Historical Museum. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities at the Wamego City Park, which features hiking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. The town's charming downtown area is perfect for a leisurely stroll and shopping.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Wamego City Hall
- ✓Wamego Historical Museum
- ✓Wamego City Park
- ✓Historic Downtown Shopping
5. El Dorado
El Dorado, located about 60 miles from Wichita, is a historic town with a rich oil industry past. Visitors can explore the Kansas Oil Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the history of the oil industry in the region. The town is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the El Dorado State Park, which features hiking trails, fishing, and camping.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Kansas Oil Museum
- ✓El Dorado State Park
- ✓Historic Downtown Shopping
- ✓Outdoor Recreation
6. Hutchinson
Hutchinson, located about 40 miles from Wichita, is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Kansas State Fairgrounds, which hosts several events throughout the year. The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Hutchinson State Fishing Lake, which offers fishing, hiking, and picnic areas. For those interested in history, the Hutchinson Museum offers a fascinating look into the region's past.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Kansas State Fairgrounds
- ✓Hutchinson State Fishing Lake
- ✓Hutchinson Museum
- ✓Outdoor Recreation
7. Manhattan
Manhattan, located about 120 miles from Wichita, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore the Kansas State University campus, which offers a variety of attractions, including the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art and the K-State Gardens. The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Tuttle Creek State Park, which features hiking trails, fishing, and camping.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Kansas State University
- ✓Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art
- ✓K-State Gardens
- ✓Tuttle Creek State Park
8. Topeka
Topeka, located about 100 miles from Wichita, is the capital city of Kansas and offers a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Kansas State Capitol, which offers guided tours of the historic building. The city is also home to several museums, including the Kansas Museum of History and the Topeka Zoo. For those interested in outdoor activities, the city features several parks and recreation areas, including the Shawnee County Park.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Kansas State Capitol
- ✓Kansas Museum of History
- ✓Topeka Zoo
- ✓Shawnee County Park
9. Lawrence
Lawrence, located about 130 miles from Wichita, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore the University of Kansas campus, which offers a variety of attractions, including the Spencer Museum of Art and the Kansas University Natural History Museum. The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Clinton State Park, which features hiking trails, fishing, and camping.
What to See & Do:
- ✓University of Kansas
- ✓Spencer Museum of Art
- ✓Kansas University Natural History Museum
- ✓Clinton State Park
10. Salina
Salina, located about 80 miles from Wichita, is a charming city with a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Smoky Hill Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the region's history. The city is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Salina Riverfront, which features hiking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. For those interested in arts and culture, the Salina Arts Center offers a variety of exhibitions and events.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Smoky Hill Museum
- ✓Salina Riverfront
- ✓Salina Arts Center
- ✓Outdoor Recreation
11. Abilene
Abilene, located about 100 miles from Wichita, is a historic town with a rich past. Visitors can explore the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the life and legacy of the 34th President of the United States. The town is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Eisenhower State Park, which features hiking trails, fishing, and camping.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
- ✓Eisenhower State Park
- ✓Historic Downtown Shopping
- ✓Outdoor Recreation
12. Junction City
Junction City, located about 100 miles from Wichita, is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Milford State Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The city is also home to several museums, including the Kansas Army Museum, which offers a fascinating look into the history of the U.S. Army. For those interested in history, the city features several historic sites, including the Geary County Historical Society Museum.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Milford State Park
- ✓Kansas Army Museum
- ✓Geary County Historical Society Museum
- ✓Outdoor Recreation
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