Summer 2020 may become the Year of the Staycation. Social distancing is an expectation, face coverings are becoming a city order, and yet the relentless angst of cabin fever is hitting hard. Here are 5 easy day trips from Kansas City that will allow you to stretch your legs, breathe some fresh air and get away from it all!
1. Watkins Mill State Park & Historic Site
About a 30 minute drive northeast of Kansas City
Watkins Mill State Park and Historic Site is a gem just outside of Kansas City. The park is built around the only 1800s woolen mill still standing west of the Mississippi with its building and machinery intact. Visitors to the historic site can
- explore the small museum and interpretive center
- take a guided tour of the mill itself as well as the Watkins house and grounds
- talk to the sheep, chickens, and turkey
- enjoy one of many reenactments that are held throughout the year
- wander through the heirloom garden that is, today, maintained by Master Gardeners
- walk over the stone stile to pay respects at the small family cemetery
Surrounding the historic site is the Watkins Mill State Park. Some guests enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing in the 100-acre lake. Others take advantage of the 4-mile Lake Trail (or one of the many unpaved trails) and the beautiful natural views. In addition, Watkins Mill has a beautifully maintained campground with scheduled activities taking place all through camping season.
2. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
About a 2.5 hour drive from Kansas City
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a family favorite and easily a full-day activity! We loved driving up to the Omaha Zoo when my boys were younger, and even now that they are older, a visit to the zoo never fails. According to their website, “The Zoo is nationally recognized for its conservation, animal care and exhibit design.” To ensure guest safety, the park is currently requiring reservations to ensure social distancing. Please check the website to reserve your visit.
Highlights:
- Guests can explore the Leid Jungle, America’s largest indoor rainforest!
- The Desert Dome features three different desert habitats in 84,000 square feet on two levels – the world’s largest indoor desert.
- Visitors can marvel at the underwater world in the Scott Aquarium, with its 70 foot shark tunnel.
- Coming in Fall 2020: Sea Lion Shores!
3. Katy Trail State Park
For the outdoor adventurer, a visit to Katy Trail State Park could last a day or a week! Katy Trail is the longest developed rail-trail in the country. Built on the bed of the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, the park “is 240 miles long and runs between Clinton and Machens with 26 trailheads and four fully restored railroad depots along the way” (Katy Trail State Park).
“Whether you are a bicyclist, walker, equestrian, nature lover or history buff, the trail offers opportunities for recreation, a place to enjoy nature and an avenue to discover the past.” Before visiting, you can explore the Katy Trail Story Map, a virtual exploration of the trail, to learn about the trail and plan your visit.
Many visitors will bike, hike, or ride a section of the trail and then reverse their path for a beautiful and educational day trip. The more adventurous bike the entire trail, camping at pre-determined sites along the way. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, Katy Trail State Park is definitely one of Missouri’s must-see wonders!
4. Weston, Mo.
Weston, Missouri is the quintessential pre-Civil War small town. Its main street is lined with individually-owned shops and diners. Bed-and-Breakfasts dot the area, and seasonally scheduled events and entertainment bring in families to celebrate the old fashioned way – together. Weston has a variety of offerings all year round with a little bit of something for everyone.
Even those who have visited during the popular Weston AppleFest or toured the famous Holladay Distillery find new opportunities awaiting them. In June 2018, Noah’s Cupboard opened at 521 Main St #A. Noah, who uses locally-sourced ingredients as a foundation for his menu, is married to Andrea, a Weston native. At O’Malley’s Pub, nationally famous Irish entertainers are a regular feature. If you haven’t seen Bob Reeder perform, you’re missing out! Our favorite Weston small business, The Celtic Ranch, imports Irish and Scottish clothing, gifts, and food items (try the IRN BRU – it’s kept in the refrigerator in the cupboard area). Tucked in the back is the Whiskey Snug, which carries the Midwest region’s largest selection of adult beverages from the isles – stop in for a dram and learn about the different types of whiskey and Scotch!
Fun Fact: According to their website, “The Celtic Ranch is a certified training facility for the Whiskey ambassador program, the only accredited whiskey training program in the UK.” Lessons, anyone?
More Weston Fun:
- Hike the trails at Weston Bend State Park – be sure to check out the view of the Missouri River from the scenic overlook!
- Weston Historical Museum – Free Admission
- Weston Orchard & Vineyard
- 2nd Weekend events each month – check out the events calendar to follow along
5. Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re looking for a place with natural social distancing, Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect day trip from Kansas City! The 7,350-acre refuge was established in 1935 as a resting, feeding, and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife.
Guests and their families can
- complete a Bird Checklist
- drive the 10-mile tour loop around the Wild Goose pool
- go hiking on one of the trails
- photograph the birds – don’t miss the Eagle aeries about a 3/4 mile hike at the Eagle Pool (follow signage)
Throughout the fall, when migration is most active, the Refuge holds a number of events, including the popular Eagle Days, when bald eagles can be seen nesting in their huge aeries on the far side of the Wild Goose Pool.
While the Visitors Center is currently closed, it is historically open weekdays 7:30-4:30 and on select Saturdays during peak migration periods. The refuge itself is gated and open from sunrise to sunset daily. Remember to bring your camera!
Related Post: In the Mood for Old Fashioned: Historic Independence Missouri
Kimberly has lived in the Kansas City area her entire life. She especially enjoys hiking the Missouri State Parks Trails with her family in the fall, when Missouri is particularly beautiful!
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