Discovering Kansas: A Road Trip Through the Sunflower State

My 25th state on the list, Kansas, was full of beautiful surprises at every stop! Here’s my ideal Kansas road trip, blending big cities, charming small towns, and gorgeous natural landscapes. I’ll also give some ideas at the end if you want to tweak or add a few more stops for an even deeper Sunflower State adventure!

I took a few detours on my actual journey, but here, I’ve reconstructed a route that makes exploring Kansas even smoother. This itinerary isn't exhaustive—Kansas has far too much for one trip—but it’s a solid guide to get your Kansas fix.

Getting to Kansas

This road trip starts in Wichita, home to the state’s largest airport, Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport. You’ll find plenty of flight options here, but feel free to adapt this road trip to start in another Kansas city if it better fits your travel plans.

The Route - 8 Days in Kansas

Below is the route this journey will follow:

• Day 1 - Wichita

• Day 2 - Hutchinson

• Day 3 - Cottonwood Falls

• Day 4 - Lindsborg

• Day 5 - Topeka

• Day 6 - Wamego

• Day 7 - Leavenworth

• Day 8 - Oakley

Day 1 - Wichita

Welcome to Wichita, where your day will be packed with exciting places to explore!

Morning: Start at Il Primo Espresso Caffe

Kick off your morning with a breakfast sandwich and some seriously good coffee at Il Primo, Wichita’s first coffee house. This cozy spot will get you fueled for the day!

Then, pick your adventure for the morning:

• Cowtown Museum: Step back into the late 1800s and see why Wichita was once the heart of cattle country.

• Wichita Botanica: Wander through stunning themed gardens, ideal for a peaceful morning.

• Wichita Art Museum: From Edward Hopper to Georgia O'Keeffe, this museum has an impressive collection, plus a glass bridge perfect for photos.

  
  

Afternoon: Brunch and Exploration Place

For brunch, hit up HomeGrown Kitchen for scratch-made local flavors. Afterward, head to Exploration Place, where interactive exhibits and a riverside view of the Arkansas River make it fun for all ages. For more tips on what to do in Wichita, check out my article on spending a day in Wichita for even more local favorites!

Evening: Relax and Enjoy

End your day at Nortons Brewing Company with a local craft brew, then catch the Keeper of the Plains fire show (check times depending on the season). This powerful display is a tribute to Native American culture—just the right way to wrap up your day in Wichita.

Day 2 - Hutchinson

Morning: Coffee at Metropolitan Coffee

Start the day with coffee at this cozy, small-town gem.

Then head to the Cosmosphere, a surprising space museum with artifacts from German rocket designs to Apollo 11. It's a truly unique space exploration experience in the heart of Kansas.

Afternoon: Strataca Salt Mine

Go underground at Strataca and explore a working salt mine! Don your hard hat, ride the underground train, and keep a bit of Kansas history with a piece of salt to take home.

Day 3 - Cottonwood Falls & Chase County

Cottonwood Falls is a small town but has big history and beautiful landscapes.

Morning: Chase County Courthouse

Start at the historic Chase County Courthouse, Kansas’s oldest courthouse (free to visit), and admire its impressive woodwork and stained glass.

Late Morning: Downtown Cottonwood Falls

Take a stroll through the small shops and galleries in Cottonwood’s charming downtown area.

Afternoon: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Walk among the few remaining tallgrass prairies in North America at this sprawling preserve in the Flint Hills. It's perfect for a scenic hike, and when night falls, it’s a fantastic spot for stargazing.

Late Afternoon: Cedar Point Mill

A short drive takes you to the picturesque Cedar Point Mill. Snap a photo of this 19th-century mill, a local treasure that’s being restored as a historical landmark.

For a full guide to Cottonwood Falls & Cedar Point Mill check out my article here!

Day 4 - Lindsborg

Lindsborg feels like a slice of Sweden in Kansas!

Morning: Coronado Heights

This WPA-built “castle” offers sweeping views of the prairie. Bring a picnic and capture the scenery.

Late Morning: Wild Dala Horses

Back in town, search for the colorful Dala horses around downtown, each one uniquely decorated as a tribute to Swedish heritage.

Afternoon: Blacksmith Coffee

A former blacksmith shop, now a café, serves up the best lattes with a side of small-town history.

Late Afternoon: Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum

A former blacksmith shop, now a café, serves up the best lattes with a side of small-town history.

For a full Lindsborg guide I have a full article linked here!

Day 5 - Topeka

Morning - Kansas State Capitol

Tour the Capitol, including the famous dome climb—296 steps for unbeatable views of the city.

Mid-Morning - Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site

This National Historic Site, where the landmark Supreme Court case began, offers powerful insights into the Civil Rights Movement.

Lunch - The Wheel Barrel

In the NOTO Arts District, this cozy spot is famous for gourmet grilled cheese and fresh salads.

Afternoon - Kansas Museum of History & Lake Shawnee

Learn about Kansas history at the museum, then take a lakeside break at Lake Shawnee for some fresh air.

Evening - Explore NOTO Arts District

Explore local art galleries and vibrant murals in NOTO, a great way to cap off your Topeka day.

Want my full morning guide to Topeka? Click here to learn more!

Day 6 - Wamego

“Follow the yellow brick road” to Wamego, where the magic of Oz awaits!

Morning - Start With a Visit to the Oz Museum

Kick off your day at the Oz Museum, where you can explore exhibits that celebrate the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz. From memorabilia to interactive displays, it's a delightful start for fans of all ages!

Late Morning - Stroll Through Wamego's Charming Downtown

After the museum, take a short stroll to the Yellow Brick Road, just across the street. This two-block pathway winds through Wamego and ends right at the Emerald City Playground. Along the way, stop at The Friendship House for a fresh-baked treat—think cookies, breads, and pastries! Or grab a savory bite if you’re ready for an early lunch.

Lunch - Toto's TacOZ

Next, satisfy your appetite at Toto’s TacOZ, a local gem serving a delicious Cal-Mex menu. Enjoy dishes made with local ingredients—perfect for meat lovers and vegetarians alike!

Afternoon - Oz Winery & Toto Scavenger Hunt

Unwind at OZ Winery, where you can sample handcrafted wines and local chocolates. Don’t miss the fun mini scavenger hunt to spot Wamego’s 18 Toto statues scattered throughout town. Grab a map from the Wamego Chamber of Commerce or the Oz Museum to guide your search!

Day 7 - Leavenworth

Experience the rich military heritage and charm of Leavenworth on your next adventure!

Morning - Fort Leavenworth Tour & Historic District

Kick off your day at Fort Leavenworth, the oldest active Army post west of the Mississippi. Take a guided or self-guided tour to explore historic sites, including the Buffalo Soldier Monument. Then, wander through the Historic Downtown District, filled with quirky boutiques and local cafes. Stop by High Noon Saloon & Brewery for a mid-morning snack and a local craft brew!

Midday/Lunch - C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

Enjoy a nostalgic visit to the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, where you can ride on hand-carved carousels dating back over 100 years. Afterward, refuel at Pullman Place, a classic family diner known for its comfort food, including hearty Kansas-style fried chicken.

Afternoon - Views at Landing Park

Relax at Landing Park, overlooking the scenic Missouri River. Enjoy the walking paths and picturesque picnic spots, especially lovely during fall foliage.

Day 8 - Oakley

Oakley, Kansas, is a hidden gem packed with natural wonders and western history. Here’s how to explore its unique charm!

Morning - Monument Rocks & Buffalo Bill Cultural Center

Start your day at Monument Rocks, known as the "Chalk Pyramids." Marvel at the stunning chalk formations and look for fossils. Then, head back to the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center to discover exhibits celebrating the Wild West and Buffalo Bill Cody’s legacy.

Midday/Lunch - Cap'n Jack's Pub

Stop for lunch at Cap’n Jack’s Pub, a local favorite offering classic American dishes in a friendly setting. Enjoy a burger or some Kansas BBQ to refuel for your adventures ahead.

Afternoon - Fick Fossil & History Museum & Downtown Oakley

Explore the Fick Fossil & History Museum, showcasing fossils and local history with free admission! Afterward, wander through Oakley’s quaint downtown for unique finds in antique shops and boutiques. Don’t forget to grab a sweet treat before you leave!

Optional Sunset:

If time allows, return to Monument Rocks for a stunning sunset. The golden hour transforms the formations into a breathtaking silhouette against the prairie sky.

Extra Kansas Adventures

If you have some extra time and would like to add some additional stops to your list consider the following cities:

• Lawrence:

  • Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence has a vibrant arts scene and historic downtown. You can visit the Spencer Museum of Art and enjoy the local shops and cafes. The Massachusetts Street area is particularly lively.

• Manhattan:

  • Known as the "Little Apple," Manhattan is another college town with Kansas State University. Attractions include Flint Hills Discovery Center and Tuttle Creek State Park. The local dining scene is also worth exploring.

• Abilene:

  • Abilene is famous for being the home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. You can visit the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and explore the historic downtown area.

• Salina:

  • This city has a rich history and a thriving arts community. Visit the Salina Arts & Humanities or the Smoky Hill Museum. It’s also known for its beautiful parks.

• Baxter Springs:

  • Located in the southeastern corner of Kansas, Baxter Springs has a rich history as a former stop on the historic Chisholm Trail. The Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum is a great place to learn more about this history.

• Fort Scott:

  • This historic town features well-preserved 19th-century buildings and is known for the Fort Scott National Historic Site, which offers insights into the region's military history.

• Dodge City:

  • Known for its Wild West history, Dodge City is famous for attractions like the Boot Hill Museum and the historic Front Street. It’s a fun stop to experience cowboy culture.

• Leoti:

  • This small town offers a glimpse of rural Kansas life and is close to the Monument Rocks, unique chalk formations and a designated National Natural Landmark.

• Hays:

  • This town is home to Fort Hays State University and offers attractions like the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, which features impressive dinosaur fossils.

If you decide to include some of these cities, you could create a flexible itinerary that allows for side trips or detours. Here’s how you might adjust your trip:

• Day 1: Wichita (as planned)

• Day 2: Lawrence or Manhattan (adding one of these stops can provide a fun college-town vibe)

• Day 3: Lindsborg

• Day 4: Cottonwood Falls

• Day 5: Abilene (instead of Leavenworth)

• Day 6: Topeka

• Day 7: Wamego or Hays (depending on your interest)

• Day 8: Hutchinson

• Day 9: Oakley (or consider adding Dodge City for a Wild West experience)

As my journey through Kansas comes to a close, I'm left with a heart full of memories and a newfound appreciation for the Sunflower State. Each stop along the way unveiled hidden gems, from vibrant college towns to serene natural landscapes. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Wichita, savoring the flavors of local cuisine in Topeka, or soaking in the charm of small towns like Lindsborg and Cottonwood Falls, Kansas offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every traveler.

While this itinerary serves as a solid guide, don't hesitate to venture off the beaten path. There are countless stories waiting to be discovered in this beautiful state, and each detour may lead to unforgettable moments. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the spirit of adventure guide you through Kansas. Happy travels!