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When people think of epic road trips, they might not immediately picture Kansas — but they should. Tucked away in the heart of America, this state offers wide-open spaces, golden prairies, and small towns bursting with charm. Whether you're seeking serene tallgrass prairies, quirky roadside attractions, or a deep dive into pioneer history, there's a route for you. So pack some snacks, make a playlist of your favorite tunes, and get ready to hit the road. These eight great road trips to take in the state of Kansas are unforgettable. They may change how you see the Sunflower State — and maybe even make some memories as you cruise down the highway.

Flint Hills Scenic Byway

If you’re craving rolling hills and vast prairies, the Flint Hills Scenic Byway is a 47-mile stretch along K-177 that winds through one of the º£½ÇÉçÇø's last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems. Starting in Council Grove, history buffs will want to visit historic sites, like the Kaw Mission State Historic Site, The Cottage House, and the Hays House 1857 Restaurant. Travel to Cottonwood Falls to explore the historic Chase County Courthouse or stroll through the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City. This 11,000-acre natural habitat has preserved the prairie grasses and wildlife that once covered the Plains. Visitors will enjoy watching the bison herd grazing in the distance or taking in a sunrise or sunset when the sky bursts into shades of pink and gold.

Historic Route 66 Scenic Byway

No list of great road trips would be complete without a mention of the iconic Route 66. Kansas has a small slice of the Mother Road that runs through the southeast corner of Kansas. The 13-mile route wanders through Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs before continuing south through Oklahoma. Galena is a must-stop, especially for fans of the movie "Cars," as it inspired the character, Mater. Visit Cars on the Route and Gearhead Curios for photo ops with vintage vehicles, Route 66 souvenirs and other nostalgic memorabilia. As you travel south to Baxter Springs, the local historical museum offers interesting exhibits of the region's history as a cow town and mining hub. If you need a spot to enjoy an excellent wood-fired pizza and handcrafted brews, Bricks and Brews Woodfire Grill and Pub on Military Avenue in Baxter Springs is on the route.

Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway

The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, near Medicine Lodge, offers stunning red rock formations, mesas, and buttes that seem straight out of the Southwest. This 42-mile route on US 160 is a geological wonderland, with plenty of places to hike or picnic at scenic overlooks to soak it all in. Begin your journey at the Medicine Lodge Stockade Museum and Carrie Nation Home. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history of early settlers and the temperance movement. If you like to fish, the Barber State Fishing Lake is just north of Medicine Lodge and stocked with good bass, catfish, and crappie populations. As you travel west toward Coldwater, visit the Commanche County Historical Museum, or enjoy the serenity of Coldwater Lake.

Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway

The Wetlands & Wildlife Byway is a 77-mile route from Hoisington to St. Johns that takes you through Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge — two of the most important wetlands in North America. The route is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during migration seasons as hundreds of thousands of birds fill the sky. (The best times for viewing are mid-March to May, and again in mid-September to November). As you travel, stop by the Historic Wolf Hotel in Ellinwood, a remarkable Bed & Breakfast with an underground tunnel tour and prohibition era speakeasy. The entire byway is tranquil and slow-paced, encouraging you to roll down the windows, breathe in the fresh air, and witness the spectacle of nature's beauty as nearly 350 different kinds of birds migrate to the area twice a year.

Glacial Hills Scenic Byway

This 63-mile byway meanders through northeastern Kansas, where ancient glaciers shaped the landscape into gentle hills and lush valleys. The route begins near the gates of Fort Leavenworth, passing through charming towns like Atchison, near Troy and White Cloud. Leavenworth enjoys its heritage as a primary fort and supply station for early settlers traveling west and has an extensive downtown district filled with interesting boutiques, shops, and cafes. As you travel north on K-7, you will venture through Atchison, the birthplace of Amelia Earhart. In addition, the supposedly haunted 1889 McInteer Villa (along with other haunted houses) are 19th century homes worth exploring, if you enjoy the macabre. One of the best times to travel this route is in the fall, when the autumn foliage is spectacular, covering the rolling hills in shades of red, yellow and burnt orange.

Western Vistas Scenic Byway

The Western Vistas Scenic Byway stretches through the rugged beauty of western Kansas, running from Sharon Springs through Oakley and south toward Scott City. This 102-mile route takes you through striking landscapes filled with chalk formations, expansive prairies, and rich historical landmarks. Stop by Monument Rocks, towering limestone pillars that rise like ancient sentinels from the plains or visit Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park to hike through dramatic, otherº£½ÇÉçÇøly terrain. History buffs can explore the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley or step back in time at Historic Lake Scott State Park, where remnants of ancient Native American settlements add depth to the journey. It’s a drive packed with natural wonders and stories of the past, perfect for travelers eager to experience Kansas’s wilder side.

Prairie Trails Scenic Byway

The Prairie Trails Scenic Byway is a hidden gem that captures the heart of central Kansas. This 56-mile route weaves through the Smoky Hills, showcasing rolling landscapes and historic small towns. Beginning just south of Canton, near where the Santa Fe Trail brought early settlers to the region, the route heads north toward Lindsborg, known as "Little Sweden." This quaint community is a must-see with its charming downtown, Dala horses, and the stunning Coronado Heights Castle overlooking the valley. You can explore unique art galleries, savor Swedish pastries, or visit the Old Mill Museum to dive into local history. The route winds toward Ellsworth, where the Hogden House Museum Complex will allow you to step back in time with its nostalgic displays and buildings.

Post Rock Scenic Byway

Stretching 18 miles along K-232, the Post Rock Scenic Byway takes you through the heart of Kansas’s Smoky Hills, where rugged limestone fence posts line the rolling prairie. These hand-carved posts, crafted by early settlers who used limestone instead of scarce wood, stand as enduring symbols of pioneer resilience and ingenuity. The byway’s gentle curves lead to Wilson Lake — often known as the "Clearest Lake in Kansas" — where you can boat along rocky coves, fish for crappie and bass, or hike trails that offer panoramic views of the shimmering water and glorious prairie sunsets.

The route concludes in Lucas, a town bursting with creative energy. Visit the Grassroots Art Center to discover local folk art, then explore the Garden of Eden, a quirky outdoor sculpture park built by Civil War veteran S.P. Dinsmoor. This scenic drive blends Kansas’s natural beauty with its rich artistic heritage, making it a perfect road trip destination.

Kansas may be known for its endless, wide-open prairies, but the state has numerous quality road trips that offer a º£½ÇÉçÇø of hidden treasures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of bird migrations, tracing the paths of pioneers, or marveling at vibrant folk art, these scenic byways offer something for every traveler. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the Sunflower State surprise you — one mile at a time. Every turn holds a new story, and every stretch of highway invites you to discover the beauty and spirit of the Sunflower State.