Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life in Wichita, KS? Embark on exciting day trips from Wichita KS to explore the beauty and charm of the surrounding areas. From picturesque landscapes to historical sites and outdoor adventures, there is no shortage of options for a memorable day trip. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a change of scenery, these day trips from Wichita KS offer something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems waiting to be explored just a short drive away from Wichita.
Kansas City, Missouri
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita KS to Kansas City, Missouri: 200 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 3 hours
- How to get there from Wichita KS: You can take a Greyhound bus from Wichita to Kansas City. The bus station in Wichita is located at 312 S Broadway St. In Kansas City, you will arrive at the Greyhound station at 1101 Troost Ave. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from Wichita to Kansas City. The train station in Wichita is located at 703 E Douglas Ave, and in Kansas City, you will arrive at Union Station at 30 W Pershing Rd.
- Click for Google maps directions: Kansas City, Missouri
Exploring Kansas City, Missouri: Things to do
Kansas City, Missouri is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and delicious barbecue. One of the must-see places in Kansas City is the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which offers a poignant look at the Great War through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
For art enthusiasts, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a top destination, featuring an impressive collection of European and Asian art. Visitors can also explore the historic 18th and Vine District, home to the American Jazz Museum and Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, celebrating the city’s musical and sports heritage.
Foodies will delight in the diverse culinary scene of Kansas City, with its famous barbecue joints like Arthur Bryant’s and Gates Bar-B-Q. Don’t miss the chance to sample some mouthwatering burnt ends and ribs while in town.
Nature lovers can escape to the serene surroundings of Loose Park or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Country Club Plaza, known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and upscale shopping.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or food, Kansas City has something for everyone to enjoy during a day trip from Wichita.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita, KS: 160 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there: Take I-35 S and I-44 E from Wichita to Tulsa. The main bus station in Wichita is the Wichita Transit Center. The train station is not available for this route.
- Click for Google maps directions: Tulsa, Oklahoma
Exploring Tulsa, Oklahoma: Things to do
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. One of the must-see places in Tulsa is the Philbrook Museum of Art, housed in a stunning Italian Renaissance villa. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse collection of European, American, Asian, and African art.
For a taste of the local culture, head to the Blue Dome District, a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Don’t miss the iconic Blue Dome building, a former Gulf Oil station turned into a local landmark.
Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the Gathering Place, a sprawling park along the Arkansas River. With playgrounds, gardens, and walking trails, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon outdoors.
History buffs should explore the Greenwood District, also known as Black Wall Street. Learn about the thriving African American community that once existed here and visit the Greenwood Cultural Center for a deeper understanding of this important chapter in American history.
Tulsa is also home to the Oklahoma Aquarium, where visitors can marvel at marine life from around the world, including sharks, sea turtles, and jellyfish. It’s a great place for families and animal lovers alike.
Whether you’re interested in art, history, nature, or marine life, Tulsa offers a diverse range of attractions that make it a must-see destination in Oklahoma. Plan your day trip from Wichita and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita KS to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Approximately 160 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there: The most convenient way to travel from Wichita KS to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is by car via I-35 S. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from Wichita to Oklahoma City. The Greyhound bus station in Wichita is located at 312 S Broadway St. In Oklahoma City, the Greyhound bus station is situated at 1948 E Reno Ave.
- Click for Google maps directions: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Exploring Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Things to do
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is a vibrant destination that offers a blend of rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. One of the must-see places in Oklahoma City is the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, where you can explore exhibits showcasing the cowboy way of life and Western art.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Myriad Botanical Gardens is a must. This urban oasis features lush gardens, a tropical conservatory, and a tranquil lake, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the Bricktown Canal, lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, which commemorates the victims of the 1995 bombing. The museum offers a poignant look at this tragic event and its impact on the community.
For a taste of local culture, head to the Paseo Arts District, known for its eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some authentic Oklahoma barbecue at one of the city’s renowned barbecue joints.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or cuisine, Oklahoma City has something to offer every type of traveler. Plan a day trip from Wichita KS to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and discover the diverse attractions that make this city a memorable destination.
Topeka, Kansas
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita, Kansas to Topeka, Kansas: Approximately 140 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there: Take I-35 N from Wichita and continue on I-335 N to Topeka. The main bus station in Wichita is the Wichita Transit Center, and the train station is the Wichita Union Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Topeka, Kansas
Exploring Topeka, Kansas: Things to do
Topeka, Kansas, the capital city of the Sunflower State, offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that make it a must-see destination in the Midwest. One of the top attractions in Topeka is the Kansas State Capitol, a magnificent building that showcases stunning architecture and provides insight into the state’s political history.
For history buffs, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is a significant landmark that commemorates the landmark Supreme Court case that ended segregation in public schools. Visitors can explore exhibits and learn about the civil rights movement in the United States.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of Lake Shawnee, a picturesque spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The Topeka Zoo is another popular attraction, offering a chance to see a variety of animals up close and learn about conservation efforts.
For a taste of local culture, the NOTO Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can browse unique artwork, shop for handmade goods, and sample delicious cuisine.
Overall, Topeka, Kansas, provides a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests, making it a worthwhile destination for a day trip from Wichita.
Hutchinson, Kansas
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita KS: 52 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- To get to Hutchinson from Wichita, take I-135 N and follow signs for Hutchinson. The Greyhound bus station in Wichita is located at 312 S Broadway St, and the nearest Amtrak station is in Newton, about 30 miles away from Wichita.
- Click for Google maps directions: Hutchinson, Kansas
Exploring Hutchinson, Kansas: Things to do
Hutchinson, Kansas, is a charming city that offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities, making it a must-see destination for a day trip from Wichita. One of the top attractions in Hutchinson is the Cosmosphere, a renowned space museum that houses an impressive collection of space artifacts and exhibits, perfect for space enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
For those interested in history, the Kansas Underground Salt Museum is a unique experience where visitors can explore an active salt mine and learn about the mining process. The museum offers underground tours that provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial heritage.
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the Dillon Nature Center, a serene oasis with walking trails, gardens, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The center is a great place to unwind and connect with nature, making it a relaxing stop during your day trip.
To immerse yourself in local culture, explore the downtown area of Hutchinson, where you’ll find charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some Kansas barbecue or visit a local brewery to taste craft beers made in the region.
Overall, Hutchinson, Kansas, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests, making it a perfect destination for a day trip from Wichita. Whether you’re interested in space exploration, history, nature, or local culture, Hutchinson has something for everyone to enjoy.
Lawrence, Kansas
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita KS: 165 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2.5 hours
- How to get there: You can reach Lawrence, Kansas from Wichita by taking a bus from the Wichita Transit Center to Kansas City, then transferring to a Greyhound bus that will take you directly to Lawrence. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from Wichita to Kansas City and then transfer to a bus to reach Lawrence.
Exploring Lawrence, Kansas: Things to do
Lawrence, Kansas is a vibrant college town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. One of the must-see places in Lawrence is the historic Massachusetts Street, known for its charming shops, local eateries, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and cafes that line the street, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and people-watching.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Watkins Museum of History is highly recommended. This museum showcases the rich heritage of Lawrence and provides insights into the city’s past through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Another iconic landmark in Lawrence is the University of Kansas, where visitors can explore the beautiful campus grounds, visit the Spencer Museum of Art, or catch a Jayhawks basketball game at the Allen Fieldhouse.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the natural beauty of Lawrence, with its numerous parks and trails offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Clinton State Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, with a scenic reservoir perfect for boating and fishing. The Prairie Park Nature Center is another gem in Lawrence, where visitors can observe native wildlife and learn about the region’s ecosystems.
In addition to its cultural and outdoor attractions, Lawrence also boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues showcasing local talent. The Lawrence Arts Center is a hub for creativity, offering classes, exhibitions, and performances that highlight the city’s artistic spirit.
Overall, Lawrence, Kansas is a dynamic destination that appeals to a wide range of interests, making it a must-see place for travelers looking to experience the heart of the Midwest.
Ponca City, Oklahoma
Travel tips
- Distance from Wichita KS: 90 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1.5 hours
- How to get there: Take US-77 S from Wichita and continue on US-177 S to Ponca City. The Greyhound bus station in Wichita is located at 312 S Broadway St. There are no train stations directly to Ponca City.
- Click for Google maps directions: Ponca City, Oklahoma
Exploring Ponca City, Oklahoma: Things to do
Ponca City, Oklahoma, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored just a short drive away from Wichita, Kansas. This charming city offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that make it a must-see destination for day trippers.
One of the top attractions in Ponca City is the Marland Estate Mansion, a stunning architectural masterpiece that offers guided tours showcasing the opulent lifestyle of oil baron E.W. Marland. History buffs will also enjoy visiting the Pioneer Woman Statue, a tribute to the pioneering spirit of women in Oklahoma.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Ponca City boasts beautiful parks and recreational areas perfect for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Lake Ponca Park is a popular spot for fishing and boating, while the Standing Bear Park and Museum offers a glimpse into Native American history and culture.
Art lovers will appreciate the Marland’s Grand Home, which houses a collection of art and artifacts from the Marland family. The Ponca City Art Center showcases local and regional artists, providing a vibrant cultural experience for visitors.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore downtown Ponca City, where you can stroll along historic streets lined with shops, cafes, and galleries. Grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants serving up delicious Oklahoma cuisine, or shop for unique souvenirs to remember your day trip to Ponca City.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, art, or simply enjoying a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Ponca City, Oklahoma, has something for everyone. Plan your day trip today and discover the charm and beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of the Midwest.
