Are you ready to explore the Sunflower State like never before? Buckle up because we’re about to take you on a road trip that’ll make your heart sing, and your taste buds dance! Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your backyard or a road-tripping enthusiast searching for new adventures, these Kansas road trip adventures are perfect.
From the trendy spots of Shawnee to the historic charm of Lecompton and the vibrant energy of Lawrence, we’ve got you covered with the best places to visit, eat, and stay. Let’s hit the road!
Some of our food and lodging was paid for by the tourism boards. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.
Shawnee – A City on the Rise
Downtown Shawnee’s Charm
First stop, Shawnee! This Kansas City suburb has been making waves recently, transforming into a must-visit destination. Start your adventure by exploring the downtown stores. Shenanigan’s is the go-to spot for the best Kansas City Chiefs gear and souvenirs.
Looking for something more whimsical? The Flower Chick offers cutesy, fun items and beautiful plants to brighten up any space.
Coffee Breaks in Shawnee
Shawnee’s coffee shop scene is not to be missed. Station 3 and the long-standing Café Equinox in the Family Tree Nursery are perfect spots to grab a cup of joe and relax before continuing your adventure. Besides coffee, they both offer matcha, tea, and assorted pastries.
Literary Delights and Local Brews
Bookworms, rejoice! Shawnee is home to the youngest bookshop owner (Halley Vincent of Seven Stories) in the country. Visit her cozy bookstore for a unique selection of reads.
Afterward, treat yourself to a tasty snack and a local beer at District Pour House. This brewery’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious brews are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Culinary Delights in Shawnee
For lunch, indulge in some Italian deliciousness at Paulo and Bill Restaurant. Their 1/2 portion combo plates, like the half salad and half pasta, are a perfect way to sample a variety of flavors. Don’t miss the lasagna—it’s a crowd favorite!
Dinner calls for a visit to Hereford House, a fine-dining steakhouse with a casual feel. The center-cut filet, cooked to perfection, paired with garlic butter green beans and creamy goat cheese/jalapeño corn, is a meal to remember.
It’s an excellent choice for a date night or a special celebration.
Shawnee Town Museum – A Step Back in Time
History buffs and families alike will love the 1929 Shawnee Town Museum. This collection of living history buildings of a farm community offers a glimpse into the past, making it a fun and educational experience.
Nightlife and Retro Vibes
When the sun sets, head to the retro Aztec Theater for a performance that’ll transport you back in time. If cocktails are more your style, Wild Child is the place to be. With its super chill vibe and fabulous decor, you’ll feel right at home sipping on handcrafted prohibition-style cocktails or fantastically crafted zero-proof drinks.
I appreciate that owner and James Beard finalist Jay Sanders believes that sober clients should be treated equally. “We put as much effort into everybody’s experience, whether there’s alcohol in their glass or not,” he was quoted.
Rest and Recharge
After a day of fun, rest your head at the Marriott Courtyard, known for its attentive staff, nice pool, and comfy rooms. It’s the perfect place to recharge. Don’t miss breakfast at Rize N Shine on Renner Road—it’s the best way to start your day of adventure.
Outdoor Fun in Shawnee Mission Park
Shawnee Mission Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Rent a kayak, pedal boat, stand-up paddleboard, or boat to explore the scenic lake.
If you prefer land activities, use the RideKC racks to cycle through the park and get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Lawrence – A Vibrant College Town
Any Kansas road trip should include a stop in Lawrence, a trendy college town with ultimate shopping and dining.
Boutique Shopping on Massachusetts Street
Lawrence is a city that will steal your heart. You could spend an entire trip just on Massachusetts Street (Mass St.), with its incredible array of boutique shops and eateries.
From Wonder Fair and Squishington’s Candy (this shop is too cute!) to Striped Cow and The Dusty Bookshelf (also one in Manhattan, KS), there’s something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Ask about the haunted bathroom at Wonder Fair, and remember to say hello to its famous Dave the Cat.
Don’t miss Jungle House, possibly the best plant shop in the nation, offering an incredible selection of plants, plant classes, and educational sessions.
Pro Tip: Are you a plant lover? Check out Nick’s Fork and Hay Flower Company in downtown Goodland on the west side of Kansas.
Luxurious Stay at The Oread
For accommodations, The Oread Lawrence (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) is a great luxury hotel that doesn’t break the bank. It is located near the University of Kansas campus and offers stunning views, pet-friendly rooms, and top-notch amenities.
The granite bathrooms, 300-thread count sheets, and excellent front desk service make for a comfortable stay.
Art and Politics – Must-Visit Museums
The Spencer Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers. This University-affiliated museum boasts a collection of over 48,000 objects ranging from jewelry and portraits to sculptures and glassware. Admission is free, and parking is validated.
The Dole Institute of Politics might not sound exciting at first, but trust me, it’s worth a visit. The stunning building, picturesque water feature, and engaging nonpartisan exhibits tell the story of Bob Dole’s political career in a thoughtful way.
The huge hanging stained glass US flag alone is worth the stop.
Breakfast Bliss
Start your day with a hearty breakfast or brunch at Ladybird Diner, a hotspot on Mass St. Their Southern menu, featuring buttermilk biscuits, meringue pies, and buttermilk fried chicken, is a culinary delight.
The Truckstop Pileup gets my vote — with griddled brioche topped with sharp cheddar, sausage patties, sausage gravy, 2 eggs of your choice, and fresh jalapeños. I chose the cheesy grits as my side, and this Southerner gives the whole plate a 10/10/
More Tasty Bites in Lawrence
For more delicious eats, don’t miss Big Mill, a local favorite offering various mouthwatering dishes like pizza, burgers, wings, and cocktails. Save room for the ricotta doughnuts or pot de crème for dessert…or have both like I did.
Terrebone Po’ Boys is a cute and artsy place where Cajun and Creole foods reign supreme. From the red beans and rice to the individual deviled eggs (creole and wasabi), I loved everything about this gem.
Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining or a fine dining experience, Lawrence has it all.
Outdoor Exploration at Baker Wetlands
The Baker University Wetlands is a hidden gem in Lawrence. It offers hiking trails, birding opportunities, and a small museum that kids will especially love. With 278 species of birds, 98 other vertebrates, and 487 plant species, it’s a haven for nature lovers—and it is free.
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Sign up for a guided walk to learn more about this natural setting.
Lecompton—A Peek into the Past
Historical Significance
An hour west of Kansas City, just off I-70, lies historic Lecompton. This town was the official Territorial Capital of Kansas from 1855 to 1861 and proudly claimed the title “Birthplace of the Civil War, Where Slavery Began to Die.”
Fun Fact: Lecompton was originally named Bald Eagle because of the many that nested along the river.
Spend a few hours at the Territorial Capital Museum and Constitution Hall State Historic Site to learn about this pivotal period in American history. And admire the murals.
Check the website to see when to travel back in time and meet some of the territorial characters of the Kansas territorial period during their “Bleeding Kansas” reenactment.
Delicious Eats at Aunt Netter’s Café
No visit to Lecompton is complete without a meal at Aunt Netters Cafe. This charming spot won my heart years ago, and I was so happy to nominate it for USA Today’s 10 Best Pie Shops. It won 4th place in the country, and it’s easy to see or taste why.
Treat yourself to a slice of pie and soak in the cozy atmosphere.
Plan Your Kansas Road Trip Today
Kansas is brimming with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. From the trendy streets of Shawnee to the historic landmarks of Lecompton and the vibrant energy of Lawrence, this road trip offers something for everyone.
Grab your bags, hit the road, and prepare for awesome adventures in the Sunflower State.
Pro Tip: Stop by Hays and say hello to my friend Janet, pictured below.
