Daytrips to Take This Spring in Northeast Kansas

Whether you’re planning a full spring break getaway or simply looking for an easy day trip, spring in Northeast Kansas offers a mix of outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, small-town charm and great local food. From scenic drives and historic downtowns to parks, patios and sweet shops, here are a few ways to make the most of spring across the region.

Bonner Springs: This spring, make sure a trip to downtown Bonner Springs is on your itinerary. Bonner Springs is now home to CST Sweets – The Kansas City Toffee and Brittle Company, a sweet shop where visitors can watch employees craft their confections right in the store. While you’re there, enjoy a little taste testing and sample their incredible toffees and brittles before continuing to explore downtown.

Kansas City: Spring is a great time for visitors to explore the outdoors and family-friendly attractions in Kansas City, Kansas, and many of them are completely free. Take in local history at Kaw Point Park, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark once camped during their famous expedition, or spend time enjoying nature at places like Wyandotte County Lake Park. Art lovers can take a mural tour to discover stories of the city’s culture and heritage, while families can also explore the outdoors indoors with displays at Bass Pro Shops. These easy stops make it simple to enjoy a little fresh air, learn something new and experience the character of KCK without spending a dime.

Leavenworth: From “the First City of Kansas,” Leavenworth offers the perfect starting point for scenic spring drives. The city is the nexus for two state-designated scenic byways that invite leisurely exploration as the weather warms. Head south along the Frontier Military Historic Byway, tracing the route taken by 19th-century soldiers traveling between Fort Leavenworth and Fort Scott National Historic Site. Or drive north along the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway, where the landscape (shaped by centuries of wind, rain and ancient glaciers) creates a beautiful backdrop for a spring road trip.

Merriam: Spring break, but make it easy and fun in Merriam. Located just next door to Kansas City, Merriam makes a perfect low-key home base with big-city perks nearby. Fuel up at local favorites like 30hop and Hurricane Allie’s, then spend the day browsing boutiques and national retailers for unique finds. Visitors can also discover public art using the Otocast app, historic sites and local attractions, or simply soak up the sunshine in Merriam’s parks and outdoor spaces. When it’s time to relax, comfortable and affordable lodging makes it easy to unpack and unwind. For a little extra fun, download Spring Break BINGO while you're in town!

Overland Park: Planning a spring break getaway that feels fun without feeling hectic is easy in Overland Park. Sunny afternoons are perfect for wandering through the beautiful Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, hopping between parks or lingering on patios in Downtown Overland Park. When temperatures dip, indoor attractions and hands-on experiences keep everyone entertained. Food lovers can turn the week into a casual crawl through bakeries, brunch spots and globally inspired restaurants, with plenty of shopping and events happening throughout the week.

Seneca: For those planning a spring break getaway or a quick day trip, Seneca offers a refreshing mix of historic character and lively small-town charm. Visitors are welcomed by classic brick streets and a downtown filled with locally owned shops, inviting storefront displays and friendly faces. It’s the kind of place where you can browse unique boutiques, enjoy a relaxed lunch and still have time to stroll the entire district. Events like the Seneca Shop & Stroll in April and the monthly Second Saturday celebrations add extra energy to downtown with specials, activities and live entertainment.

Topeka: Spend spring break in Topeka, where big adventures feel easy to reach. Families can ride the carousel and mini-train at Gage Park, meet incredible animals at the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center, or spark curiosity through hands-on exhibits at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. With plenty built for kids and lots of room to explore, it’s easy to fill an entire day with memorable experiences.

No matter where your spring plans take you, Northeast Kansas offers countless ways to explore, relax and make memories along the way. From scenic byways and historic downtowns to parks, patios and family-friendly attractions, each community brings its own style  to the season. Pack your walking shoes, bring your curiosity and let spring adventures lead you across Northeast Kansas.