Thinking of getting out of town for a few days? Check out a few of these great weekend getaways from Kansas City. Relax with a glass of wine at one of the many wineries, explore the outdoor trails or soak in the culture and history these special towns have to offer. It’s all within reach. Gas up the car, pack a bag and you’ll be on your way to a much deserved weekend away.
About an hour and a half from Kansas City is the town of Fort Scott, Kansas. The town has a historic downtown area with original architecture and great shopping. For an outdoor adventure in Fort Scott, check out the Kansas Rocks Recreation Park. This 240-acre park offers trails that can be used for hiking, biking or 4-wheel drive vehicles. Another spot to experience the outdoors is at Timber Hills Lake Ranch. There are natural springs, a historical site of the largest ground battle in Civil War History, hiking trails and spots for some of the best fishing in Kansas. Fort Scott also offers the beautiful Lyons Mansion for a cozy stay complete with private bath in the room and full breakfast in the morning.
A three-hour drive from Kansas City is the town of Hermann, Missouri. There are quite a few wineries in the area including the Stone Hill Winery, Adam Puchta & Son Winery, and the Hermannhoff Vineyards. If you prefer beer over wine, check out a tour at the Tin Mill Brewing Company, through their 100-year-old building. Tours are offered 7 days a week. There is plenty of outdoor adventure to be found in Hermann at Eco Zipline Tours. Their courses feature eco-friendly, tree top canopy tours. When visiting Hermann, it doesn’t get any more beautiful than a stay at Hermann Hill Bed and Breakfast Vineyard & Spa. The property is so picturesque, you may never leave. They offer a variety of guest suites and the choice to stay at the Village or the Inn. For reservation information, click here.
Wichita, Kansas is around a 3-hour car ride from Kansas City. A day in Wichita can be spent surrounded by breathtaking gardens at Botanica or go back in time to The Old Cowtown Museum. This living history museum offers a day of great fun visiting the blacksmith, the saloon, and even a wagon ride through the town. Become one with nature at the Great Plains Nature Center. There are paved trails perfect for hiking, an area for bird watching and an indoor wildlife observatory. The Center is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Of course, our favorite weekend getaway is charming Eureka Springs, Arkansas. From Kansas City, it is about a 4-hour drive. The downtown area is filled with art galleries and specialty shops to peruse during the day and a variety of restaurants and bars to venture out to at night. Many of the town’s mansions have been turned into bed and breakfast inns. Located just 2 blocks from the Historic District is Arsenic and Old Lace bed and breakfast. This Queen Anne Victorian style mansion offers five guest suites each with private bath. Wake up to a gourmet breakfast each morning and enjoy the views of the Ozark hills throughout the day and you have the making of a perfect weekend away.
Photo courtesy of soy de cali ve
