Day Trips from Manhattan
← All Manhattan day tripsDay Trips from Manhattan: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Manhattan, KS. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
10 scenic drives near Manhattan
Scenic Overlook
Olsburg, KS 66520
Just 21 min from Manhattan, 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.
Windmill Pasture Scenic Overlook Trail
Strong City, KS 66869
Just 1 hr 24 min from Manhattan, 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 37 min from Manhattan, 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
Weston, MO 64098
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Manhattan, 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.
Cheyenne Bottoms Scenic Overlook
KS-4, Hoisington
Just 1 hr 58 min from Manhattan, 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.
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Council Grove, KS 66846
Just 38 min from Manhattan, 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 57 min from Manhattan, 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.
Kansas Scenic View
KS 66845, USA
Just 1 hr 24 min from Manhattan, 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.
Four State Lookout
White Cloud, KS 66094
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Manhattan, 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.
Cliff Drive Scenic Byway
Kansas City, MO 64123
Just 1 hr 55 min from Manhattan, rated 4.2 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 Manhattan
What are the best scenic drives near Manhattan, KS?
The best scenic drives near Manhattan 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 Manhattan?
Most scenic drives near Manhattan 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 Manhattan?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Manhattan, 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 Manhattan?
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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