
Are you itching to get out in the world as much as we are? It’s time for a road trip! Here are some of our favorite places to get away without venturing TOO far from Kansas City. Check it out!
EXPLORE OUTDOORS
Monument Rocks Chalk Pyramids and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
Oakley, KS – 6 hour drive
Visit these Kansas natural wonders! If you’re on your way west, these amazing rock formations shouldn’t be missed. You’ll have to drive a few miles of gravel roads to get there, but once you see these majestic chalk towers you’ll be glad you stopped—and you definitely won’t believe you’re still in KS. (Monument Rocks pictured above.)
More info Monument Rocks {{ HERE }} | More info Little Jerusalem {{ HERE }}
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Camdenton, MO – 2.5 hour drive
View and hike through the park to view springs, sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and breathtaking views. Additionally, you can visit the ruins of a turn-of-the-century stone castle!
More info Ha Ha Tonka {{ HERE }}
Glamping with Suite Tea
Kansas City, KS or Kansas City, MO – 1 hour drive or less
Enjoy the type of break that only nature can provide, while leaving the camping gear at home. Experience the serenity of the outdoors with a comfortable bed, and other home amenities. Why camp when you can GLAMP!
More info Suite Tea {{ HERE }}
SHOPPING SPOTS
Weston, MO
1 hour drive or less
Weston is a fun day trip for shopping, but it’s also so much more! From antebellum homes, bed & breakfasts, and antiquing, to distilleries, wineries, and festivals there’s something for everyone. (Plus snow skiing and tubing in the winter!!)
More info Weston {{ HERE }}
Parkville, MO
1 hour drive or less
If you need a couple of days away from the city, come explore Parkville! Downtown Parkville is filled with unique local shops and dining. Stay in a quaint B&B and stop in at Café des Amis for French cuisine you won’t soon forget. The English Landing Park is located Missouri River adjacent and has a gorgeous 3-mile walking path. Additionally, if you’ve never watched the fireworks show along the river, you’re missing out on one of KC’s best 4th of July shows! (Parkville pictured above.)
More info Parkville {{ HERE }}
“Mass Street”
Lawrence, KS – 1 hour drive or less
You don’t have to be a Jayhawk to enjoy everything Massachusetts Street has to offer. With tons of unique shopping, arts, and dining you can make a day of it! At night explore live music and entertainment. If you haven’t been for a while, click both of the website links below to see the best places to go.
More info Mass St. {{ HERE }} and {{ HERE }}
FOR THE ADULTS

The Elms Hotel
Excelsior Springs, MO – 1 hour drive or less
This luxurious and historic hotel has a history dating back to the 1880’s. Renowned for its beautiful accommodations and lavish amenities, this hotel has earned international fame. And feel free to book a haunted history tour, as certain areas of the hotel are said to be visited by friendly spirits. Nearby sites include a golf course, several lakes and parks, the birthplace of Jesse James, historic sites & museums, and the nearby Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery or the Vantill Family Farm & Winery.
More info The Elms {{ HERE }}
Hermann, MO
3 hour drive
Cross the bridge to enter this quaint German town settled on the bluffs of the Missouri River. Hermann is a short drive from KC or can also be accessed via a fun train ride. You probably won’t need a car much while you’re here… Filled with historic brick buildings, you’ll find plenty of unique places to stay. Explore the town for fun local shops and dining or hop on a wine trolley and explore the many local wineries. Be sure to check their calendar too. Many fun festivals are held here throughout the year. (Hermann, MO pictured above.)
More info Hermann {{ HERE }}
Chateau Avalon
Kansas City, KS – 1 hour drive or less
An award-winning, French-inspired hotel that will surprise and excite you! A romantic get-away with uniquely themed rooms. They offer breakfast in bed, luxury spa services, and over-sized jetted tubs in every room. Choose from multi-level luxury rooms, adventure rooms, or book a classic room with the charm of a bed and breakfast.
More info Chateau Avalon {{ HERE }}
FOR THE KIDS

Omaha Zoo
Omaha, NE – 3 hour drive
Omaha Zoo is a well-designed zoo with lots to see and do. Don’t miss the Desert Dome, the huge aquarium, the Lied Jungle—an indoor rain forest, and be sure to ride the air trams (Skyfari) to get a great overhead view! For more fun in Omaha, be sure to visit the Old Market District. Kids will go crazy for the Hollywood Candy Store, and parents will appreciate the historic architecture, cobblestone streets, the fun shops, galleries, and delicious dining options.
More info Omaha Zoo {{ HERE }}
Silver Dollar City
Branson, MO – 3.5 hour drive
Silver Dollar City has some of the best coasters and other rides in the Midwest! Located in the picturesque Ozark area, you’ll also have plenty of trees to offer shade when it’s hot. While you’re in the Branson area, don’t miss out on some of the other amazing things to do. Visit Snowflex park for a year-round tubing park, WhiteWater—a 13-acre water park, shop or take a zip-line ride across the river at Branson Landing, drive on some unique go-kart courses, and visit Table Rock State Park. You could easily spend 3-4 days having family fun, and maybe more! (Silver Dollar City pictured above.)
More info Branson {{ HERE }}
The Wild Animal Safari
Strafford, MO – 3 hour drive
This unique zoo has a 5-mile area you can drive through and see animals. Take your own car or take a complimentary bus tour. There is also a walkable portion. Either option will allow you to feed the animals as you go. Kids and adults alike will appreciate seeing animals from around the world in this fun way.
More info Animal Safari {{ HERE }}
Crater of Diamonds State Park
Murfreesboro, AR – 7 hour drive
One of the only places in the world where you can search for real diamonds! Be sure to scroll down on their home page and click on nearby accommodations and nearby attractions to make it a full family vacation.
More info Crater of Diamonds {{ HERE }}
We hope you found something new to explore near KC this summer. If we can assist with real estate or anything else related to your home feel free to give us a call! 913-451-4888

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