Day Trips from Lawrence
← All Lawrence day tripsDay Trips from Lawrence: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Lawrence, KS. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Lawrence
Scenic Overlook
Olsburg, KS 66520
Just 1 hr 36 min from Lawrence, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
KS 66869, USA
Just 1 hr 48 min from Lawrence, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic View Point
NE 68355, USA
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Lawrence, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Weston, MO 64098
Just 56 min from Lawrence, rated 4.9 stars by 126 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Council Grove, KS 66846
Just 1 hr 18 min from Lawrence, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Flint Hills National Scenic Drive
Council Grove, KS 66846
Just 1 hr 35 min from Lawrence, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Konza Prairie Kansas Valley lookout point
Manhattan, KS 66502
Just 1 hr 13 min from Lawrence, rated 4.8 stars by 374 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Kansas Scenic View
KS 66845, USA
Just 1 hr 35 min from Lawrence, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Bluemont Scenic Overlook
Manhattan, KS 66502
Just 1 hr 21 min from Lawrence, rated 4.6 stars by 269 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Kansas City Skyline Viewpoint
Kansas City, MO 64108
Just 38 min from Lawrence, rated 4.5 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Overlook at Quality Hill
Kansas City, MO 64105
Just 39 min from Lawrence, rated 4.5 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Four State Lookout
White Cloud, KS 66094
Just 1 hr 34 min from Lawrence, rated 4.4 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Lawrence
What are the best scenic drives near Lawrence, KS?
The best scenic drives near Lawrence include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Lawrence?
Most scenic drives near Lawrence range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Lawrence?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Lawrence, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Lawrence?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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