Planning a weekend getaway from Sioux Falls, SD to Kansas City? It’s the perfect destination for families looking to explore a new city with plenty of attractions that both kids and adults will love. Plus, the drive offers some great stops along the way to break up the journey and add a bit of extra adventure to your trip.
Kansas City is a bit of a longer drive than some other cities nearby. But it makes for a great long weekend trip if your family is wanting to try something new! For those who are interested in a bit of a shorter drive, check out our weekend guides to Omaha, The Twin Cities, and Des Moines! Or consider even a day trip down to Sioux City!
For many in the Sioux Falls Area, a trip to Kansas City is going to take around 6 hours- which can be very doable in a day! Read about our top Road Trip Tips for Families and learn about our top Road Trip Essentials to make sure that your family will thrive on the drive.
Here’s a list of must-visit places, from the road trip down from the Sioux Falls Area, to the best family-friendly spots in Kansas City.
Road Trip Stops to and from Kansas City
Stone State Park (Near Sioux City, IA)
This park is a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, have a picnic, or take a short hike. The park’s scenic overlooks provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, and it’s a great place to enjoy nature.
Sioux City, IA
Sioux City has plenty of great stops for a break during your road trip to and from Kansas City! Check out our Sioux City Day Trip Guide for our favorite locations.
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge (Missouri Valley, IA)
Just off I-29, this refuge is a great place for a short break. Families can enjoy walking trails, bird watching, and exploring the visitor center, which features exhibits on local wildlife and artifacts from the steamboat Bertrand, which sank in 1865.
Omaha and Council Bluffs, IA
Omaha has so much to offer families! If you are driving from the Sioux Falls area, Omaha is almost exactly the half-way point on the drive to Kansas City. Making it the perfect location for a fun road-trip stop!
Check out the Omaha Children’s Museum, explore the jungle at the Omaha Zoo, or have lunch with a side of fun at the Pizza Machine. Check out all of our favorite Omaha stops for families here!
A fun detour in Council Bluffs includes a visit to the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, where kids can learn about the history of railroads in a hands-on way, and Bayliss Park, which offers a splash pad, playground, and beautiful fountain.
Nebraska City, NE
Stop by the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trails and Visitors Center to learn more about the explorers who traveled a very similar path to your drive! Also in Nebraska City you will find the birthplace of Arbor Day! Visit the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park to learn more.
St. Joseph, MO
Visit the Jesse James Home Museum,where you can visit the home where the infamous outlaw Jesse James was killed. The museum offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most famous outlaws, and the nearby Patee House Museum is another interesting stop for families.
Family-Friendly Spots in Kansas City
Science City at Union Station
Science City is an interactive science center located inside the historic Union Station. With exhibits that cater to all ages, it’s a place where your kids can learn about space, robotics, and even biology in a fun, hands-on environment. The planetarium shows and the outdoor science park are definite highlights.
Make sure to enjoy the rest of the historic Union Station while you are there as well! Across the street from Union Station is the iconic Liberty Memorial Tower and National World War 1 Museum.
The Penguin Park
If your family loves interesting and fun playgrounds, a visit to Penguin Park is a must! Your children will love the giant animals and the playground itself is very engaging. Plus, it’s free! This is the perfect spot for a picnic.
Crown Center
Crown Center itself is a hub of family-friendly activities. It’s home to many family favorite stops in Kansas City! Enjoy Legoland, Kaleidoscope, the Sea Life Aquarium and more! During the winter months, the outdoor ice skating rink is a fun addition to the trip.
Kansas City Zoo
Another fantastic spot for animal lovers, the Kansas City Zoo is a wonderful stop and features animals from around the world. Highlights include the African Plains, Tiger Trail, and the Helzberg Penguin Plaza. The zoo also offers unique experiences like tram rides and boat tours, making it an exciting day out for the whole family.
Legoland Discovery Center
Located in Crown Center, the Legoland Discovery Center is a must-visit for any family with young children. With rides, a 4D cinema, and massive LEGO play areas, your kids will be entertained for hours. Don’t miss Miniland, a miniature version of Kansas City made entirely out of LEGO bricks.
Kaleidoscope
Also in Crown Center, Kaleidoscope is a free, creative art space sponsored by Hallmark. Kids can create their own art projects using leftover materials from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes. It’s a colorful, vibrant place where your kids’ imaginations can run wild. Sessions are typically 40 minutes long, so it’s a great spot to drop by between other activities.
The Hallmark Visitors Center
Also located in Crown Center (as you can see, Crown Center is very much worth the stop), is the FREE Hallmark Visitors Center. If your family will be fascinated by the story of Hallmark in this very well done visitors center.
National World War I Museum and Memorial
For families with older children, the National World War I Museum and Memorial offers a deeply educational experience. The exhibits are engaging, with artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring history to life. The view from the top of the Liberty Memorial tower is one of the best in the city and provides a great opportunity to discuss history while taking in the scenery.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
This art museum is perfect for introducing your kids to the world of art, with its diverse collection ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art. The museum’s sculpture park is a great place to wander around, and the iconic Shuttlecocks sculptures are a hit with children. Plus, it’s free!
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Located in nearby Overland Park, this farmstead is a delightful place for younger children. The farm features animals, gardens, pony rides, and fishing ponds. It’s an educational and fun way to spend a morning or afternoon, allowing your kids to experience life on a farm without leaving the city.
Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun
For thrill-seeking families, these adjacent amusement and water parks provide a day full of excitement. Worlds of Fun offers roller coasters and rides for all ages, while Oceans of Fun is the place to cool off with water slides, a wave pool, and lazy rivers. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny day.
Loose Park
Loose Park is one of the most beautiful green spaces in Kansas City and an ideal spot for a picnic. The park features a large playground, walking trails, and a picturesque rose garden. It’s a peaceful place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Happy Road Trip!
A weekend trip to Kansas City from Sioux Falls is more than just a drive—it’s an opportunity to create lasting family memories both on the road and in the city. From amazing roadside stops to world-class attractions, this trip offers something for everyone in the family.
