Saying Goodbye to Summer: Kansas City’s Best Weekend Day Trips
As summer comes to a close, it’s time to soak up the last bits of sunshine and plan those final weekend getaways. Lucky for us, Kansas City is surrounded by charming towns and stunning natural landscapes, perfect for a day trip. From exploring cider mills and wineries to local farms, there’s no shortage of options to help you say goodbye to summer with a bang. Here are some of the best weekend day trips in Kansas City to make the most of the last days of the season.
Green Dirt Farm – Weston, Missouri
If you find yourself always ordering the cheese plate at restaurants, you’re going to love this day trip suggestion! Roughly 30 minutes from downtown, you’ll find Green Dirt Farm, a small farm in the bluffs of Weston, Missouri, dedicated to producing the highest quality grass-fed lamb and Farmstead sheep’s milk cheeses using milk from its own pastured ewes. If you’re planning ahead of time, group tours are available for scheduling. The farm also offers Farm Table Dinners celebrating the important link between landscape and food where local chefs prepare a four-course dinner from farm-grown, harvested, produced, and foraged ingredients. If you find yourself traveling to Weston during the fall, you’ll have a front-row seat to the beautiful fall foliage!
Louisburg Cider Mill – Louisburg, Kansas
This next weekend day trip may be something you only think of during the fall but we promise it can be just as enjoyable as Summer winds down. Located just 30 miles south of the city, Louisburg Cider Mill is a charming family-owned orchard and mill that has been producing fresh apple cider and pumpkin donuts for over 40 years. You’ll definitely want to stop by the country store for fresh-baked apple pies, homemade jams, and jellies, and apple cider slushies to take home. If you’re ready for more of a hands-on adventure, take a visit to their u-pick orchard, southwest of Ottawa, right off of I-35, just 30 minutes from the cider mill. Pack a picnic lunch for you and your family to enjoy in the 25-acre orchard while you pick apples right from the trees. Plus you can let the children run and play in our beautiful orchard and tire themselves out! Visiting Louisburg Cider Mill is a delightful way to embrace the season and enjoy a fun-filled day trip to the countryside.
The Elms Hotel & Spa – Excelsior Springs, Missouri
If history and a relaxing day at the spa tickle your fancy, you’ll definitely want to visit The Elms Hotel & Spa in Excelsior Springs as your next weekend getaway. This grand, 19th-century hotel exudes timeless elegance and offers a perfect escape from the city. Renowned for its healing mineral waters, The Elms provides a luxurious spa experience, complete with rejuvenating treatments and a stunning indoor and outdoor pool. The hotel’s rich history is evident in its carefully preserved architecture and opulent décor. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the hotel’s restaurant or take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens and grounds. This hotel has also been known to host more than just living guests! The Elms has been said to host several ghosts over the years, with their origins being the center of many a spirited discussion. If you’re looking to add a little spook to your step, make sure to book the paranormal package with your stay.
KC Wine. Co – Olathe, Kansas
When it comes to getting out of Kansas City for a few hours and enjoying the outdoors (and a few beverages), a visit to KC Wine Co. in Olathe, Kansas, promises a delightful experience for more than just wine enthusiasts. This charming winery offers a picturesque setting, ideal for unwinding amidst their local vineyards and open fields. KC Wine Co. often hosts seasonal events, live music, and food pairings, making each visit a unique and memorable affair. Their annual Sunflower Festival is a must-attend event that provides acres of fun, including 60+ farm activities, access to sunflower fields, yard games, a mega-slide, and access to additional festival foods and drinks. You’ll have to try their notable wine slushies to really get in the spirit!
Mass Street – Lawrence, Kansas
Embarking on a weekend day trip to Lawrence, Kansas, promises a mix of vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and delectable dining options. We promise it is a worthy-visit beyond dropping off college kiddos at the beginning of the school year! You’ll first want to fuel up with some delectable pastries from Munchers Bakery before starting your day by exploring the charming streets of Mass Street in downtown Lawrence, lined with unique shops, art galleries, and historic buildings. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Spencer Museum of Art, while nature lovers can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic hiking trails at Clinton Lake, a mere 22 minutes southwest of the city. When it comes to dining, make a reservation at one of the notable popular spots like Free State Brewing Company for craft beers and pub fare, or try the eclectic menu at Merchants Pub & Plate for a farm-to-table dining experience. With its blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and culinary delights, Lawrence, Kansas, serves as the perfect destination for a memorable weekend day trip from Kansas City.
As we bid farewell to the carefree days of summer, there’s no better way to savor the last moments of the season than by exploring the best weekend day trips in Kansas City. From the apple orchards of Louisburg Cider Mill to the unbeatable spa of The Elms Hotel in Excelsior Springs, each destination offers a unique and memorable experience to cap off the summer months. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, these weekend getaways serve as a fitting farewell to summer and a welcome to the season ahead!
If you have your own weekend trips you enjoy outside of Kansas City or want to know more about our suggestions, please reach out to us today! As you Kansas City real estate professionals and Kansas City ambassadors, we would love to help you find a home or your next date night spot. We do it all!
