Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Lawrence, KS
Lawrence is the University of Kansas's town with access to the Spencer Museum of Art, Clinton Lake, and the historic Massachusetts Street.
The Spencer Museum of Art and Clinton Lake offer culture and water recreation.
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or browse all12 destinations near Lawrence
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area
MO 64015, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 1 min from Lawrence · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Keeper of the Plains
Wichita, KS 67203
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 3.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 24 min from Lawrence · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
Forest City, MO 64451
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 39 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Lakeside Nature Center
Kansas City, MO 64132
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 49 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum
Chanute, KS 66720
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 45 min from Lawrence · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Grand Falls
Joplin, MO 64804
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.8k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 54 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Mushroom Rock State Park
Brookville, KS 67425
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 30 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Cave Spring Park
Kansas City, MO 64133
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 49 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Remington Nature Center
St Joseph, MO 64505
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 13 min from Lawrence · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Indian Cave State Park
Shubert, NE 68437
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.5 by 1.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 3 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Old Mill Dam
Fredonia, KS 66736
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.5 stars) · 2 hrs 13 min from Lawrence · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Krug Park
St Joseph, MO 64505
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.5 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 15 min from Lawrence · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Lawrence, KS?
The best day trips from Lawrence include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Lawrence?
Most great day trips from Lawrence are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Lawrence?
Many of the best day trips near Lawrence are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Lawrence?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Lawrence, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Lawrence?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Lawrence make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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