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15 Unique Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Cincinnati

You won’t have to travel far in order to find some unique weekend getaways near Cincinnati!

After writing about the new Cannaley Treehouse Village in Toledo and the Covered Wagon rentals in Kentucky, I started to wonder if there were more “unique” spots within driving distance of Cincinnati.

And, WOW, did I uncover some great places for weekend getaways near Cincinnati! From staying the night in a shipping container to vintage RV’s to tiny cabins on the river…. I looked through the options at Airbnb (and a few other lodging spots) and found some really fun places to try.

Weekend Getaways Near Cincinnati:

Buffalo springs distilling company.

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Stamping Ground, KY; 100 miles away

Highlights from the Owners* : On the Bourbon Trail. The Buffalo Springs Distilling Company got it’s start in 1868. It closed and it’s warehouses were emptied out by the 1970’s. This building is one of the last structures left on the site. This historic building was the main office and gatehouse for visitors to the distillery, so we can offer one bedroom due to the size of the structure. Bourbon History buffs will love the opportunity to stay overnight in an old distillery building. This lodging has a large main room, fully equipped kitchen, a bedroom with a Queen bed, bathroom, and laundry area. There’s a City Park almost adjacent to the rear of the property and a family restaurant, stores, bank, post office, gasoline, and Police Station within walking distance.

Details : Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1bed; 1 bath

You might also like: 10 Relaxing and Romantic Getaways in Ohio

Gladiola, A Tiny House on Wheels

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Logan, Ohio; 150 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Our Tiny Houses have that fun feeling, kinda like a tree house or cabin in a setting that allows you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of the Hocking Hills. Inside the air-conditioned/heated tiny house, you can climb a ladder up to a loft bed for a different view, convert the sectional seating into a king sized sleeping area, make and eat dinner in the kitchen and dining area, and freshen up in the bathroom with walk-in shower, Separett composting toilet, and hot running water. So if you enjoy such adventurous and playful settings with close access to zip-lining, hiking, caving, canoeing/kayaking, or a number of other Hocking Hills attractions, our tiny house stays are a perfect fit for you!

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; open floor plan; 1 king (sectional converts into a bed) and 1 double bed (in the loft); 1 bath

Log Cabin with a Guest House

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Terre Haute, IN; 185 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Comfort and relaxation are the cornerstone of Peaceful Pines, an eight acre landscape with a traditional log cabin and quaint guest cabin located on a pond. The log cabin has an open concept, a loft and updated amenities including a wraparound deck, screened-in porch, round hot tub and more. A one-of-a-kind guest house compliments the traditional log cabin for your crew or additional guests.

Details: Sleeps 6 guests; 3 bedrooms, 3 beds, 2 baths

The Artist’s A-Frame

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Madison, Indiana; 90 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Getaway and enjoy the comfort and convenience of this unique, newly remodeled A-Frame home nestled in a quiet, upscale neighborhood. minutes away from Clifty Falls State Park (10 min.) and Historic Downtown Madison (5 min.): recognized as “The prettiest small town in the Midwest” by Ladies Home Journal and “Best Preserved Town in the Midwest” by the Chicago Tribune.

Check out the reviews – at the time of this posting they have 55 “5 star” reviews (the highest you can get)!

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 1 bath

Shipping Container Chic – a truly unique weekend getaway!

Highlights from the Owners* : We are nestled on 13 acres of woods just 2 miles from the entrance of Old Man’s Cave right on 664 S in Logan Ohio. Inside we have a cozy bedroom with full view window, private bathroom /shower, full kitchen with cooktop, living room area with small dining table for 2, gas fireplace, YouTube TV, and WiFi. One of the coolest additions is our motorized glass garage door. Outside under a covered porch is a comfy outdoor swing bed, outdoor lights, a hot tub for two and a glass grill.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 double bed; 1 bath

Caboose with a View

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Marietta, Ohio; 220 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Enjoy your stay in a completely remodeled train caboose with a large deck and an amazing view looking over the Ohio river and West Virginia. A full size Murphy bed, original writing desk, the dining table is an old sleeper bed turned upside down and all the lights are original out of Pullman train cars. One of the coolest additions is our motorized glass garage door. Outside under a covered porch is a comfy outdoor swing bed, outdoor lights, a hot tub for two and a glass grill.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 full sized Murphy bed; 1 bath

Paws and Unwind: Pet Friendly with a Fenced Dog Area

Highlights from the Owners* : Paws & Unwind is dog and kid friendly. We are located just 1.7 miles from Old Man’s Cave… Paws & Unwind offers a furnished kitchen, towels, linens, propane grill, a Keurig and K-Cups, a drip coffee maker and filters, shampoo, conditioner, dish soap and basic paper goods. We have a cooler, backpack, 4 sets of trekking poles, and 4 pair of ice grippers for your shoes for use during your stay. For your dogs, we have a 12 ft x 20 ft fenced in area right off of the deck. We also have indoor and outdoor dog beds, and food and water bowls. There is a 4 ft x 2.5 ft dog crate. There is no size or breed restriction for your dogs. We just ask that they are well behaved and pick up after themselves! We are an unplugged destination. There is no Wi-Fi.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 1 bath

Ultimate Couples Getaway in a Barn

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Peebles, Ohio; 80 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Trade in the city for millions of stars in the night sky! Located on dead end road in the midst of scenic Brush Creek Forest! Front porch overlooks stocked spring-fed pond.

Details: Sleeps 5 guests; 2 bedrooms; 1 king bed and 3 singles plus an air mattress; 1 bath

Milk House Cottage

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Chesterhill, Ohio; 192 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Our Milk House Cottage and Gardens is nested in the historic village of Chesterhill, Ohio on 12 beautiful hilly scenic acres (in the heart of an “old world” Amish community). The Milk House Cottage has been totally redesigned into a beautifully modern space equipped with mini-split heating & AC, village water, a non-cooking kitchenette area in the interior porch sitting area.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 2 single beds; 1 bath

Carriage House in Downtown Indy

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Indianapolis, IN; 120 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Fully modern and brand new private space in our charming carriage house. It has all the amenities you would need to enjoy and explore the beautiful city of Indianapolis. If you are here for work or pleasure, it is perfectly located and easy access to all Indy has to offer so come and explore our great city.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 queen bed; 1 bath (compost toilet)

A Tiny House Escape on 86 Acres in KY

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Augusta, Kentucky; 45 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Our backyard is 86 acres, and we are saving two of them just for you! Our Tiny House escape offers everything to set the tone for your “tiny get-a-way”, “big take-a-way”: Hidden along the creek, restored Kentucky farm venue, shared time in restored barn, social distancing, fire pit, stars. . OR. . . three miles to the sweet town of Augusta, right on the Ohio River– just a jaunt down the road for winery, shops, restaurants! Select “all” for the perfect vibe—make it you!

Details: Sleeps 3 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 queen,1 single; 1 bath

Alpine Chalet – Hocking Hills

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Logan, Ohio; 150 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Alpine – Hocking Hills is tucked into the woods near three other Chalets, on Blosser Road, convenient to Route 33 and the city of Logan. The closest state park is Lake Logan, 1.5 miles, a 5-minute drive. Old Man’s Cave is, 10 miles, a 15-minute drive… Connect with your friends or family, gathered around the beautiful slab-wood table in the spacious eat-in kitchen, on the hearth of wood-burning fireplace, out at the fire pit or in the hot tub on the porch. Beautiful log and slab hard-wood furniture, throughout, with exposed-beam walls and ceiling; hardwood floors; stone hearth. Two queen beds and two full baths, plus washer and dryer, upstairs – in rooms with charming dormer windows and cheery skylights.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 2 baths

Creekside Cabin on a Horse Farm – Lexington, Ky

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Lexington, Ky; 85 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Gorgeous N. Elkhorn Creek views from every room in this 1200 ft cabin on a private, gated horse farm. Your only neighbors are friendly horses! Wi/fi, SatTV/Netflix or enjoy wildlife viewing on the screened porch. Big Green Egg for grilling on the spacious deck. Fire pit and zipline. Living room/bedroom dual wood burning fireplace for chilly nights. Fully stocked granite kitchen. Kayaks available.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 2 baths

Lots of Room at the Jackie O’s Barrel Ridge Farm in Athens, Ohio

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Athens, Ohio; 175 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life on the Jackie O’s Barrel Ridge Farm! The perfect getaway for families with children and/or friends who want to reunite near Athens. With lots of natural light, this new 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath space sleeps 12 and has plenty of room for your group, including a chef’s kitchen with large dining table, 2nd floor living room, and tons of outdoor space with a hot tub, gas grill, fire pit, 2 ponds, several greenhouses and plenty of space to explore! … Take a peaceful stroll around the 20+ acre property and check out what’s growing. The greenhouses are home to vegetables and herbs served at the Jackie O’s Public House Restaurant, located in Uptown Athens. Surrounding the farm are fruit and nut trees, which are used in many of our small batch Brewpub beers.

Details: Sleeps 12 guests; 3 bedrooms; 7 beds; 2.5 baths

A Remote Cabin Getaway in Rising Sun, IN

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Rising Sun, IN; 40 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Welcome to our family’s 40-acre wooded property, Grace Woods. This historic cabin was built in 1806 with ties to the American frontiersman, Buffalo Bill – the perfect balance of rustic & modern. Updated amenities provide comfortable accommodations and allow you to relax in the outdoors. Access to pond, hiking trails, campfire, tree swings and zip line, plus more. Many guests visit the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Check our Guidebook for other local recommendations.

Details: Sleeps 6 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 1 bath

* Please be sure to read the property’s complete details on the rental listing. We have not supplied the full list of details / descriptions here.

3 thoughts on “15 Unique Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Cincinnati”

Brigitte, This is a great article. I am always looking for interesting places to get away to from Cincinnati. We have lived in Alberta, Minnesota, Connected and North Carolina and explored all of those regions, but have lived in Cincinnati now for 14 years and every one of the places on this list could be a new adventure. Thank you very much! Mike Crossen

You should check out the Murphin Ridge Inn in West Union, OH. It is a hidden treasure! It is one of our favorite getaway spots within an hour of Cincinnati. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Thanks for this great list of ideas!

Comments are closed.

21 Incredible Things to Do in Syracuse, NY (and the Rest of Onondaga County)

Located in the eastern part of the Finger Lakes , Syracuse is the fifth largest city in New York State. And, while this part of the state is sometimes overlooked, there are many fun things to do in Syracuse, NY.

Whether you are looking for a historic museum, incredible natural scenery, or just some mindless fun, there are a lot of great spots to check out throughout Onondaga County. In fact, from my experience visiting the city many times over the years, there’s enough here to keep you busy for several days or even a full week.

So, while this isn’t a list of all the things to do in Syracuse, it’s a great start for planning your adventures in this corner of Upstate New York.

Green Lakes State Park

I’ve been to a lot of state parks in New York, and few have impressed me as much with their beautiful natural scenery as Green Lakes State Park .

Green Lakes State Park is located a short distance east of downtown Syracuse and is home to two of the most beautiful and rarest lakes in the state. This 2,000-acre park features miles of hiking trails and many places to explore. However, the park’s highlights are its two lakes.

These lakes are meromictic lakes. This means that the lakes have layers that do not ever mix. This creates a lake that preserves things incredibly well at the bottom and has a very bluish-green hue in the top layer that is nearly crystal clear.

A great walking and jogging trail loops around the lakes.

Everson Museum of Art

The Everson Museum of Art is located in the downtown area and is one of the best things to do in Syracuse, NY if you love the arts.

This museum focuses on American Art and features an incredibly impressive collection ranging through many different styles. You can spend all day here looking at the beautiful pieces on display.

In addition to the collection, the building itself is a masterpiece of design and one of the most unique structures I’ve ever toured.

Skaneateles Lake Boat Tour

Located a short distance west of Syracuse, you’ll find the incredible Skaneateles Lake. This lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the country, and taking a boat tour of the lake is a great way to explore this part of Onondaga County.

Mid-Lakes Navigation runs daily boat tours seasonally that offer the chance to see the lake, learn more about its history, and view some of the incredible homes along the shores of Skaneateles Lake.

Depending on your interest and budget, they run several different types of tours, with their one-hour sightseeing cruise being the most popular.

Upside-Down Traffic Light

Located in the Tippery Hill neighborhood of Syracuse, you’ll find what is thought to be the only upside-down stoplight in the world . That means that the red is one on the bottom and the green is on the top.

This is a very Irish neighborhood, and the story goes that the residents couldn’t stand to see the British red over the Irish green when the light was installed in the 1920s. The light kept being broken until an agreement was reached to hang the light upside down so the Irish green was on the top.

Today, this is a fun little oddity to check out. There’s even a statue of a family pointing towards the light.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

If you love animals, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a great spot to check out.

The zoo is home to nearly 1,000 animals from many different species including elephants, tigers, and Komodo dragons. There are both indoor and outdoor exhibits, so you’ll be able to see animals no matter which season you visit.

The zoo also offers several animal encounter experiences and a petting zoo for kids. There’s also an aquarium.

Pratts Falls

If you are looking for waterfalls near Syracuse , you won’t want to miss Pratts Falls .

Located a short drive southeast of the city, Pratts Falls is within a beautiful park of the same name. This waterfall is nearly 140 feet in height and can be viewed from both the rim of the falls and from near the base at the end of a short walking path.

At the crest of the waterfall, you can also see the remnants of a mill that once stood here.

Craft Breweries

If you love craft beer, you are in luck; there are many great breweries in and around Syracuse .

These breweries can be found throughout Onondaga County and range from small operations that just feature a taproom to large scale breweries complete with restaurants. No matter where you go, though, you are sure to have a great meal.

If you are trying to pick one or two to visit, my personal favorites, so far, are Talking Cursive Brewing and Heritage Hill Brewhouse (which has a nice outdoor space for kids and a great view of the city). 

Erie Canal Museum

There are few transportation projects that did more to change America than the Erie Canal, and in downtown Syracuse, you can learn more about this amazing piece of transportation history.

The Erie Canal Museum is located within a historic canal building and offers information about the history of the canal, its impact on the country, and what life was like for those that lived and worked along the canal. You can even step aboard a replica canal boat to get a feel for what they were like.

Labrador Hollow Boardwalk

Located in southern Onondaga County, you’ll find the Labrador Hollow Unique Area. While there are several great spots to visit here (including Tinkers Falls which is in Cortland County), one of my favorite walks is the Labrador Hollow Boardwalk .

This boardwalk is fully handicapped-accessible and passes through a beautiful forest wetland on the edge of the Labrador Pond. It offers the chance to explore this beautiful part of the Finger Lakes and is perfect for the whole family and just about any ability level.

If you are looking for outdoor things to do near Syracuse, NY, this is a spot you shouldn’t miss.

Skä·noñh-Great Law of Peace Center

New York is filled with Native American history, and there is nowhere better in the Syracuse area to learn about this history than at the Skä·noñh-Great Law of Peace Center .

This museum is located along the banks of Onondaga Lake and gives visitors the chance to learn more about Haudenosaunee culture and history. The museum features a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits and is a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to learn more about the region’s Native American history.

Matilda Joslyn Gage House

Matilda Joslyn Gage was one of the most important suffragettes of the 19th century and her home is open for tours in Fayetteville.

Visitors to the home can learn more about Gage’s life and impact on both the fight for women’s rights, as well as her work for the rights of minorities in the United States. A variety of displays throughout the home do a great job of helping visitors appreciate this often forgotten heroine of American history.

Additionally, Gage was also the mother-in-law of author L. Frank Baum and visitors can learn a bit about this famous author in the home, as well.

The Salt Museum

Located in Onondaga Lake Park, the Salt Museum tells the story of how Syracuse came to be known as “The Salt City”.

This free museum is open during the warmer months of the year and features a variety of displays that go from Native American uses for salt, through the peak of the industry, and to its decline in the early 20th century. Along the way, signage, dioramas, and videos tell this fascinating story.

Clark Reservation State Park

Located just south of downtown Syracuse, Clark Reservation State Park is a great place to check out if you love hiking, beautiful natural scenery, or geology.

Thousands of years ago, the park was home to a massive glacial waterfall. Today, the remnants of the cliffs and plunge pool create an incredible scene that’s unlike anything else in the region. In fact, it almost looks like the lake is located in the middle of a crater.

Even cooler, just like nearby Green Lakes State Park, the lake here is a meromictic lake. This gives it a beautiful and unique color.

Museum of Science and Technology

If you are looking for something fun to do in downtown Syracuse, the Museum of Science and Technology is a fantastic choice.

This museum features many great hands-on activities to teach both children and adults about the wonders of science and technology. While some of the activities are definitely geared towards kids, I really enjoyed my visit even without children.

The museum is also home to a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Onondaga Lake Park

Onondaga Lake is a large lake just north of downtown Syracuse. Unfortunately, much of its shoreline is closed to the public. However, those that want to enjoy the beauty of this lake can head to Onondaga Lake Park on the northeastern end of this body of water.

This park features a great paved path along a portion of the lake that is perfect for walkers or bicyclists. There are also ample opportunities for those wanting to see the beautiful birds that inhabit the area around the lake, a skatepark, and a large playground.

During the holiday season, the park is home to the Lights on the Lake .

WonderWorks

Somewhat strangely, Syracuse doesn’t have any amusement parks. However, if you want to have some amusement-park-type fun, WonderWorks is a great alternative.

Located entirely within Destiny USA, the largest shopping mall in New York, WonderWorks features 40,000-square feet of entertainment options for just about anyone. Visitors can do a ropes course (the tallest in the country) through the mall, play laser tag, enjoy the large arcade, and much more.

Since it’s all indoors, this also is a great option for those looking for things to do in Syracuse, New York on a rainy day.

Three Falls Woods

Three Falls Woods is one of the best-kept secrets in the Syracuse area. Opened to the public in 2018, this 78-acre preserve is known for its three waterfalls which flow adjacent to each other and can all be seen at the same time.

While the trails here are quite poorly marked, finding the waterfalls is a fun adventure. Just make sure to visit in the spring or when water levels are high. Otherwise, the falls here will be quite dry (as they were when I visited).

Catch a Game

If you love sports, the Syracuse area features several sports teams that are worth taking the time to see.

The Syracuse Mets are the AAA affiliate of the New York Mets and showcase players on the cusp of making the Major Leagues. Games are played in NBT Bank Stadium from roughly April through early September.

Syracuse University is also well known for its sports programs , with 18 total varsity sports. Many of their most popular sports, including basketball and football, are contested in the Carrier Dome, the largest domed stadium on a college campus.

Onondaga Historical Association

If you want to learn about the history of Syracuse and Onondaga County, the Onondaga Historical Association is a great spot to check out.

This two-story museum is located in the old Bell Telephone Building in the heart of downtown Syracuse and offers a fantastic overview of the area’s history covering nearly every imaginable topic.

Even better, this museum is totally free to visit!

Old Erie Canal State Historic Park

Old Erie Canal State Historic Park is a restored section of this famous canal that stretches from Onondaga County to Rome, New York.

This 36-mile section of trail features a restored towpath that’s perfect for walking and biking. Along the way, you can see historic locks and read signage to learn more about the canal.

For boaters, sections of the park can also be navigated by kayaks and canoes.

Stickley Museum

The Stickley Museum can be found on the second story of the Fayetteville Library in a space that was once part of the manufacturing factory for this local furniture marker.

The museum walks visitors through the history of Stickley Furniture, from its start as a small local operation to its worldwide success. Along the way, there are well over a hundred pieces of beautiful furniture that showcase the work of this company and how it evolved over the years.

While the displays can be a bit promotional at times, it’s still a great spot to learn about the history of Stickley Furniture and how American furniture has changed over the years.

Where to Stay in Syracuse

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in Syracuse, there are many great options.

The Marriot Syracuse Downtown is located in a historic building in the heart of the city that was built in 1924. Many of the historical touches have been kept in this property, including the incredible artwork in the lobby. The views from this hotel are also suburb from some rooms. (The photo at the top of this article was taken from this hotel.)

Another great option is the Hotel Skyler . This hotel was once a synagogue and the hotel has been beautifully worked into this space, taking advantage of many of the building’s unique architectural elements. It was also the third hotel in the country to be designed as LEED Platinum.

Of course, there are also many other great options that you can find on Booking.com and Airbnb if you are looking for another option.

Do you have a favorite thing to do in Syracuse and Onondaga County that we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for more places to visit nearby? Check out our favorite waterfalls in the Finger Lakes , the Harriet Tubman Home and Gravesite , Ithaca’s top attractions , and the best things to do in Rochester, NY .

More nearby places worth exploring

The Strong Museum of Play in Rochester: The Perfect Destination for Kids in New York

Hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park: Everything You Need to Know

How to Get to Newfield Covered Bridge Near Ithaca, New York

Visiting the Powder Mills Fish Hatchery near Rochester

Find more things to do in the finger lakes.

Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

7 thoughts on “21 Incredible Things to Do in Syracuse, NY (and the Rest of Onondaga County)”

Very useful info. I would surely include Syracuse in my bucket list. But weather is an important factor. Very snowy in winter so the best time might be mid-winter days.

You haven’t mentioned Highland Forest where there’s hiking and sleigh rides. Or Morgan Hill there’s hiking, and little ponds throughout

Lots of great things to do in the area. It’s impossible to mention them all. Thanks for the additional suggestions.

Highland is quite close to 3 Falls for a spent day

One of the things that wasn’t noted about Onondaga Lake are the Plethora of Bald Eagles that overwinter there. We have had over 50 eagles this winter (so far) and over 104 back in March 2019. This lake has the highest count of eagles than any other urban area in the Northeast.

Interesting! I didn’t know that.

Absolutely a wonderful virtual guide to Syracuse New York. We fostered a dog who came to us by way of someone just throwing her out on a country road in Ms. To make a long story short, LuLuBelle spent 4 months with us & then was adopted by a family in Syracuse, New York. What a beautiful state for Belle to live in with her new family.

If the opportunity arrives, we will visit Syracuse, & maybe even meet Belle & her new family.

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Weekend Getaways in (and around) Missouri

Quick trips and nearby destinations in southwest Missouri and beyond for every week of the year.

By Katie Pollock Estes and Joan Whitaker

It’s the start of a new year and the end of a busy holiday season. For a lot of us, that means we are ready for a break. For a weekend away. Or maybe, for a whole lot of weekends away. Plan ahead for a fun-filled year with our guide to weekend getaways for every week of the year (plus a few more)! Pick how far you want to travel below and start planning.

Jump to A Section

Looking for local spring activities.

Check out a list of things to do in Springfield, Missouri during the spring season .

Less Than Two Hours Away

Take a Roadtrip on Route 66

Who it’s for: Nostalgia hunters Why it’s great: The Mother Road is the  classic road trip, born in Springfield and stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. Must-do list: Route 66 Drive-In ( 17231 Old 66 Blvd., Carthage, MO, 417-359-5959) , Gay Parita (Ash Grove) , Blue Whale ( 2600 U.S. Rte 66, Catoosa, OK ) , Golden Driller ( Tulsa Expo Center, 4145 E. 21st St., Tulsa, OK ) Where to stay: The Mayo Hotel in Tulsa ( 115 W. 5th St., Tulsa, OK , 918-582-6296) your turnaround spot First song on your playlist: “Route 66” by Nat King Cole The trek: Head west on I-44.

Downstream Casino

Who it’s for: A group of girlfriends who need some kid-free friend time away Why it’s great: You get to relax a little and risk a little all in one trip. Must-do list: Get a massage at the spa, belly up to the blackjack table, treat yourself at Downstream Casino ’s Red Oak Steakhouse ( 69300 E. Nee Rd., Quapaw, OK , 918-919-6000) . Where to stay: A modern-comfy suite at Downstream’s Kappa Tower First song on your playlist: “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers The trek: 1.5 hours west of Springfield

Eureka Springs

Who it’s for: Ghost hunters and small-town admirers Why it’s great: There’s a quaint and walkable downtown with an artsy vibe and “haunted” hotels. Must-do list: Downtown Underground Tours ( 3 Spring St., Eureka Springs, AR , 844-537-8687) , Thorncrown Chapel ( 12968 US-62, Eureka Springs, AR , 479-253-7401) , shopping on foot. Where to stay: Crescent Hotel ( 75 Prospect Ave., Eureka Springs, AR , 855-725-5720) for something haunted or 1905 Basin Park Hotel ( 12 Spring St., Eureka Springs, AR , 479-253-7837) for something historical First song on your playlist: The Ghostbusters theme song The trek: 1.5 hours south

A Cave-Hopping Adventure

Who it’s for: Spelunkers and geology fans Why it’s great: Missouri’s karst topography means we have plenty of underground wonders worth exploring nearby. Must-do list : Fantastic Caverns ( 4872 N. Farm Rd. 125, Springfield, MO , 417-833-2010) , Smallin Civil War Cave ( 3575 N. Smallin Rd., Ozark, MO , 417-551-4545) , Talking Rock Caverns ( 423 Fairy Cave Ln., Branson West, MO , 417-272-3366) , Marvel Cave in Silver Dollar City ( 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO , 417-338-8220) and Bluff Dwellers Cave ( 163 Cave Rd., Noel, MO , 417-475-3666) Where to stay: Big Cedar Lodge ( 190 Top of the Rock Rd., Ridgedale, MO , 417-335-2777) First song on your playlist: “Underground” by David Bowie The trek: Springfield to Ozark to Branson

Talking Rocks Cavern

It takes about an hour to trek all the way through Talking Rocks Cavern on this guided tour across wooden boardwalks and concrete stairs, and it’s worth every step. Tour guides focus on educating visitors on the history and geology of the cave as you walk through and spy a variety of incredible formations.

Marvel Cave at Silver Dollar City

A tour of Marvel Cave, which sits underneath  Silver Dollar City, takes visitors down about 500 feet below the surface on a one-hour guided trek. You’ll see a massive  cathedral room and lots of cool formations in this wet limestone cave. As you learn about the  colorful history of the cave and the park, you’ll get a thigh workout because there are a ton  of stairs here!

Smallin Civil War Cave With its super-wide mouth, Smallin Civil War Cave has one of the prettiest entrances around. Make sure you visit after a rain, so you can see a stream trickling over the rocks and out of the mouth of the cave. A guided tour filled with information about the area’s indigenous  people and the cave’s history takes visitors along a boardwalk for an easy and flat trek.

Fantastic Caverns This is the only cave on our list where you ride through on a Jeep-pulled tram instead of walking through. That means it’s great for  visitors who might struggle on an hour-long and sometimes steep walk. You’ll hear fun history (like how the cave was discovered by a local farmer’s dog) as you travel through wide spaces filled with stunning formations.

More Cave Content

Looking for a full guide to caves? Check out our recent guide to caves in southwest Missouri .

Lake of the Ozarks

Who it’s for: Cove-seekers and sun-lovers Why it’s great: This busy lake is great for the social boater to spend a day on the water. Must-do list: Rent a boat and wakeboard and hit the water, get brunch at On the Rise Bakery & Bistro ( 5439 Osage Beach Pkwy, Osage Beach, MO , 573-348-4224) , hike Ha Ha Tonka State Park ( 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO , 573-346-2986) Where to stay: Camden on the Lake ( 2359 Bittersweet Rd., Lake Ozark, MO , 573-365-5620) First song on your playlist: “Lake Song” by The Decemberists The trek: 1.5 hours north of Springfield

Truman Lake

Who it’s for: Lake-loving families Why it’s great: This quieter lake is great for a low-key weekend on the water. Must-do list: Boat rental from Harry S. Truman State Park ( 28761 State Park Road West, Warsaw, MO , 660-438-7711) , Oktoberfest in Cole Camp . Where to stay: Hidden Oaks Ranch Cabin Getaways ( 20918 Doe Trail, Warsaw, MO , 660-723-6400) First song on your playlist: “Sittin on the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding The trek: 1.75 hours north of Springfield

Ponca, Arkansas

Who it’s for: Outdoor adventurers Why it’s great: There are loads of amazing trails, gorgeous scenery, and even wild elk that you can spot as you drive around. Must-do list: Big Bluff Goat Trail (challenging), Lost Valley Trail (easy), Buffalo Outdoor Center zipline, floating the Buffalo National River Where to stay: Mountain Sunrise Cabin at Buffalo Outdoor Center ( 4699 AR-43, Ponca, AR , 870-861-5514) First song on your playlist: “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles The trek: Just under two hours south of Springfield

Bella Vista, Arkansas

Who it’s for: Lake-loving bikers Why it’s great: This community  has seven little lakes, a blue heron rookery and properties walkable to mountain biking trails. Must-do list: The Back 40 trails, Little Sugar Trail System, Blowing Springs Park ( 700 Blowing Spring Rd., Bella Vista, AR , 479-855-8075) Where to stay: Trails Edge Cabins ( 16 Trails Edge Ln., Bella Vista, AR , 479-366-7233) First song on your playlist: “Bicycle Race” by Queen The trek: Almost two hours southwest of Springfield, near Bentonville

2–3 Hours Away

Warrensburg, Missouri

Who it’s for: Anyone charmed by all things Victorian Why it’s great: This town offers lots of small-town sweetness. Must-do list: Grover Street Victorian Historic District, Dickens Christmas event, Main Street Shopping District, Spin! Pizza ( 14 W. South St. #105, Warrensburg, MO , 660-543-7746) Where to stay: Gelbach Manor Bed & Breakfast ( 300 S. Holden St., Warrensburg, MO , 660-747-5085) First song on your playlist:  “Victoria” by The Kinks The trek: Two hours north via MO-13

St. James, Missouri

Who it’s for: River rats and amateur hydrologists Why it’s great: St. James has a gorgeous spring near shady picnic spots and ironworks ruins—all within a half-hour drive of caves and rivers. Must-do list: Maramec Spring Park , Meramec Caverns ( 1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO , 573-468-2283) , Sybill’s Restaurant ( 1100 N. Jefferson St., St. James, MO , 573-265-4224) , floating the Meramec River, St. James Winery ( 540 State Rte B, St. James, MO , 800-280-9463) Where to stay: Cooper + Stone Cottage Airbnb First song on your playlist: “Take Me to the River” by Talking Heads The trek: A two-hour drive from Springfield via I-44 east

Columbia, Missouri

Who it’s for: True Tigers at heart Why it’s great: Any alum will tell you that Columbia on a game day has a vibe like no other. Must-do list: Mizzou Tigers football and tailgating, Shakespeare’s Pizza , strolling Francis Quadrangle, burgers at Booche’s Billiard Hall ( 110 S. 9th St., Columbia, MO , 573-874-9519) , Devil’s Ice Box at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Where to stay: The Tiger Hotel ( 23 S. 8th St., Columbia, MO , 573-875-8888) . You can’t miss it as you drive through downtown Columbia; it has the word “Tiger” in giant illuminated letters on its roof. First song on your playlist: “Every True Son and Fight Tigers” by Marching Mizzou The trek: 2 hours and 45 minutes north of Springfield

Bentonville, Arkansas

Who it’s for: Art aficionados Why it’s great: Bentonville is a study in contrasts, with trail life and world-class art living side-by-side around a quaint and sweet town square. Must-do list: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art ( 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR , 479-418-5700) , The Momentary ( 507 SE E. St., Bentonville, AR , 479-367-7500) , Slaughter Pen Trail, The Preacher’s Son, Bentonville City Square Where to stay: 21C Museum Hotel ( 200 NE A St., Bentonville, AR , 479-286-6500) First song on your playlist: “Yellow” by Coldplay The trek: Two hours southwest of Springfield

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Who it’s for: Arkansas alums and mural-selfie fanatics Why it’s great: This college town near Bentonville, Arkansas, is packed with personality, public art and a hopping food truck culture. Must-do list: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks ( 4703 N. Crossover Rd., Fayetteville, AR , 479-750-2620) , War Eagle Mill ( 11045 War Eagle Rd., Rogers, AR , 866-492-7324) , Razorbacks football, hunt for public murals and food trucks on a VeoRide bike or Spin scooter share Where to stay: The Graduate Hotel ( 70 N. East Ave., Fayetteville, AR , 479-442-5555) The trek: Two and a half hours from Springfield

Jefferson City, Missouri

Who it’s for: Government buffs Why it’s great: You can see where Missouri lawmakers do their thing. Must-do list: Missouri Capitol tour, Central Dairy ( 610 Madison St., Jefferson City, MO , 573-635-6148) banana split, cycle Haunted Bridge Loop along the Missouri River, Missouri State Penitentiary ( 115 Lafayette St., Jefferson City, MO , 866-998-6998) ghost tour Where to stay: Parker’s Place First song on your playlist: The Hamilton soundtrack The trek: Two and a half hours from Springfield

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Who it’s for: Families looking for some fun Why it’s great: There’s so much to do in Tulsa! But for a kid-focused trip, The Gathering Place ’s ( 2650 S John Williams Way East, Tulsa, OK , 918-779-1000) expansive outdoor adventure space takes the cake. Must-do list: The Gathering Place, Tulsa Zoo ( 6421 E. 36th St N, Tulsa, OK , 918-669-6600) , Oklahoma Aquarium ( 300 Aquarium Dr., Jenks, OK , 918-296-3474) , Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium ( 3624 N 74th E. Ave., Tulsa, OK , 918-834-9900) , Rose Rock Microcreamery ( 502 E. 3rd St. #35, Tulsa, OK , 918-396-8001) Where to stay: Hotel Indigo ( 121 S. Elgin Ave., Tulsa, OK , 918-779-4445) First song on your playlist: “Tulsa Time” by Eric Clapton The trek: Almost three hours west of Springfield

Rocheport, Missouri

Who it’s for: A low-key getaway with you, your partner and another couple or two Why it’s great: A sweet town just north of Columbia, Rocheport offers Missouri River views from the Katy Trail or a local vineyard. Must-do list: Katy Trail State Park , Meriwether Cafe & Bike Shop ( 700 1st St., Rocheport, MO , 573-698-1222) , Les Bourgeois Vineyards Where to stay: Schoolhouse Bed & Breakfast ( 504 3rd St., Rocheport, MO , 573-698-2022) First song on your playlist: “Take it Easy” by The Eagles The trek: Three hours north of Springfield

Hermann, Missouri

Who it’s for: A wine-loving couple Why it’s great: This charming town with German roots offers gorgeous countryside and river views and lots of wineries. Must-do list: Hermann Wine Trail, Hermann Farm 19th-Century Town ( 526 E. 1st St., Hermann, MO , 573-486-3276) Where to stay: The Stonewerks Room at the Inn at Hermannhof ( 237 E. 1st St., Hermann, MO , 573-486-5199) First song on your playlist: “Red Red Wine” by UB40 The trek: A three-hour drive northeast of Springfield

Grand Canyon Sleeper Train

Who it’s for: Awe-seeking families Why it’s great: You can drive just three hours to Kansas City to start a Grand Canyon adventure! Book a four-person Amtrak sleeper room to Flagstaff, where you can join a day tour to the Grand Canyon. Must-do list: Guided day tour with Grand Canyon Adventures Where to stay: Amtrak Southwest Chief First song on your playlist: “Long Train Runnin’” by The Doobie Brothers The trek: Three hours to KC

Kansas City, Missouri

Who it’s for: Citizens of Chiefs Kingdom Why it’s great: Kansas City is a super-fan’s dream these days, and this trip is all about KC barbecue and KC sports. Must-do list: Kansas City Chiefs Football, Kansas City Royals baseball, Kansas Speedway racing, Fiorella’s Jack Stack BBQ Where to stay: The Fontaine , located in Country Club Plaza ( 901 W. 48th Pl, Kansas City, MO , 816-753-8800) First song on your playlist: “Run it Back” by Blane Howard The trek: Three hours north of Springfield

3–4 Hours Away

St. Louis, Missouri

Who it’s for: A group of friends on a guys’ trip Why it’s great: It’s a beer-and-baseball road trip for Cardinals fans and microbrewery stans. Must-do list: St. Louis Cardinals game; Cardinals Hall of Fame & Museum ( 700 Clark Ave., St. Louis, MO , 314-345-9600) ; Beast Craft BBQ ( 4156 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO , 314-944-6003) ;  brewery hopping at Civil Life ( 3714 Holt Ave., St. Louis, MO ) , Perennial Artisan Ales ( 8125 Michigan Ave., St. Louis, MO ) , 4 Hands Brewing Co. ( 1220 S. 8th St., St. Louis, MO , 314-436-1559) , Urban Chestnut ( 3229 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO , 314-222-0143) , and Anheuser-Busch ( 1200 Lynch St., St. Louis, MO , 314-577-2626) Where to stay: Angad Arts Hotel ( 3550 Samuel Shepard Dr., St. Louis, MO , 314-561-0033) First song on your playlist: “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen The trek: 3.5 hours east via I-44

Excelsior Springs, Missouri

Who it’s for: A girls’ getaway Why it’s great:  Harry Truman slept here! The hotel dates to 1888 but its most storied claim to fame is that in 1948, Harry Truman spent the night he was elected President there. The grounds are beautiful but it’s the spa that steals the show. It is first-class all the way. Although a flood last summer damaged the indoor lap pool causing it to be closed for repair, there are plenty of other perks to lower your heart rate and stress level. The Grotto is the centerpiece of the spa. It includes a dry sauna, steam sauna, hot tub, cold plunge shower, steam shower and an exfoliation bar. Can you say “aaahhh”? Must-do list: A spa day Where to stay: The Elms ( 401 Regent St., Excelsior Springs, MO , 816-630-5500)  First song on your playlist: “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper The trek: 3.5 hours north.

Innsbrook, Missouri

Who it’s for: Lake life lovers who want an easy vacay Why it’s great: This small weekend community near St. Louis is a self-contained lake life haven. Must-do list: Kayak, golf, hike, stand-up paddleboard, The Clubhouse Bar & Grille ( 1150 Aspen Lake Dr., Innsbrook, MO , 636-928-3366) Where to stay: An Innsbrook rental cabin First song on your playlist: “The Lakes” by Taylor Swift The trek: Three-and-a-half hours northeast of Springfield

St. Charles, Missouri

Who it’s for: People who like some history with their small-city sweetness Why it’s great: Missouri’s first state capital embraces its long history, but the dining and main street shopping are great too! Must-do list: First State Capitol, Historic Main Street, Lewis and Clark Boathouse and Museum ( 1050 S. Riverside Dr., St. Charles, MO , 636-947-3199) , Prasino ( 1520 S. 5th St. #110, St. Charles, MO , 636-277-0202) , St. Charles Trolley Where to stay: Boone’s Lick Trail Inn ( 1000 S. Main St., St. Charles, MO , 636-947-7000) First song on your playlist: “Small Town” by John Mellencamp The trek: 3.5 hours northeast

Little Rock, Arkansas

Who it’s for: State Capital bucket listers Why it’s great: The capital city of Arkansas pays homage to former President Bill Clinton while offering some new cultural attractions. Must-do list: Clinton Presidential Center ( 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR , 501-374-4242) , Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts ( 2510 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock, AR , 501-372-4000) , Arkansas State Capitol ( 500 Woodlane St., Little Rock, AR , 501-682-3000) , River Market Entertainment District Where to stay: Capital Hotel ( 111 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR , 501-374-7474) First song on your playlist: “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson The trek: Four hours south of Springfield

Weston, Missouri

Who it’s for: Fans of locally made and grown food Why it’s great: It’s all about the tasty side of farm life at this sweet and charming town located just north of Kansas City. Must-do list: Cheese tasting tour at Green Dirt Farm ( 1099 Welt St., Weston, MO , 816-386-2156), apple picking in the fall at Weston Orchard ( 18545 Co Rd. H, Weston, MO , 816-640-4013), tastings at Pirtle Winery ( 502 Spring St., Weston, MO , 816-640-5728) Where to stay: The Firefly Inn ( 908 Washington St., Weston, MO , 816-351-3744) First song on your playlist: “Big Cheese” by Nirvana The trek: Three and a half hours north of Springfield

Arcadia Valley, Missouri

Who it’s for: Daring river rats Why it’s great: This part of Missouri is packed with natural wonders from the massive granite boulders at Elephant Rocks to the slippery water chutes at Johnson Shut-Ins. Must-do list: Elephant Rocks State Park ( 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO ) , Johnson Shut-Ins ( 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO ) , the highest point in Missouri at Taum Sauk Mountain Where to stay: Arcadia Academy ( 211 S. College St., Arcadia, MO , 573-546-4249) First song on your playlist: “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin The trek: 3.5 hours east of Springfield

Carlton Landing, Oklahoma

Who it’s for: A family in need of a quiet retreat Why it’s great: This tiny community on Lake Eufaula has the same coastal vibes as Florida spots like Seaside or Rosemary Beach. Must-do list: Boat rental, yard games, yoga, community garden Where to stay: A candy-colored Carlton Landing rental house First song on your playlist: “Sloop John B” by The Beach Boys The trek: Almost four hours southwest of Springfield

4–6 Hours Away

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Who it’s for: A few couples looking for a fun small-city getaway Why it’s great: This city is full of surprises, from a candy-colored boutique hotel to bustling nightlife. Must-do list: Scissortail Park ( 300 SW 7th St., Oklahoma City, OK , 405-445-6277), water taxi and dining at Bricktown Entertainment District , First Americans Museum ( 659 First Americans Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK , 405-594-2100), Oklahoma City Museum of Art ( 415 Couch Dr., Oklahoma City, OK , 405-236-3100) Where to stay: Bradford House ( 1235 NW 38th St., Oklahoma City, OK , 405-451-3693) First song on your playlist: “Oklahoma City” by Zach Bryan The trek: Four and a half hours west of Springfield.

Cape Girardeau,  Missouri

Who it’s for: Movie buffs wanting to see where Ben Affleck hung out Why it’s great: This river town is rich in history and was a filming site for the movie Gone Girl . Must-do list: Trail of Tears State Park ( 429 Moccasin Springs Rd., Jackson, MO ) , downtown’s public art, Gone Girl self-led tour, Old Mississippi River Bridge Scenic Overlook, Ebb & Flow Fermentations ( 11 S. Spanish St., Cape Girardeau, MO , 573-803-1611) Where to stay: Historical Kage House Airbnb First song on your playlist: “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen The trek: 4.5 hours east

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Who it’s for: A group of grown-up friends without the kids why it’s great: Spas sprung up around this town’s natural hot springs—and so did a horse racing culture. It’s a great place to relax and doing a little betting. Must-do list: Oaklawn Racing & Gaming ( 2705 Central Ave., Hot Springs, AR , 501-623-4411) , Quapaw Baths & Spa ( 413 Central Ave., Hot Springs National Park, AR , 501-609-9822) , Hot Springs National Park ( 369 Central Ave., Hot Springs, AR , 501-620-6715) , Garvan Woodland Gardens ( 550 Arkridge Rd., Hot Springs, AR , 501-262-9300) Where to stay: Casa Del Rosa for your whole group First song on your playlist: “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry Getting there: Five hours south of Springfield

Hutchinson, Kansas

Who it’s for: Anyone curious about geology Why it’s great: Charming Amish country shopping and a salt mine you can tour in an underground train Must-do list: Strataca Salt Mines , upscale hunting at Hooray Ranch ( 26202 Sego Rd., Kingman, KS , 620-532-1127) , Yoder Amish Country, downtown murals and sculptures Where to stay: The Little House in Yoder First song on your playlist: “Seether” by Veruca Salt The trek: Five hours west

Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas

Who it’s for: Treasure hunters Why it’s great: You can dig for diamonds—real diamonds! And you can keep what you find in the 37-acre field, including other rocks and gemstones. Must-do list: Dig for diamonds, learn about the area’s history and geology in the Crater of Diamonds State Park visitor’s center ( 209 State Park Rd., Murfreesboro, AR , 870-925-4000) , Telinga’s Mexican Cuisine ( 100 E. 13th St., Murfreesboro, AR , 870-285-2418) Where to stay: Jailhouse Bed & Breakfast at nearby Historic Washington State Park ( 103 Franklin St., Washington, AR ) First song on your playlist: “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by The Beatles The trek: Almost six hours south of Springfield

Des Moines, Iowa

Who it’s for: Artsy adventurers Why it’s great: The coolness factor of this town has been ticking upward, and now it’s known as an artsy haven with a state fair famous for its food. Must-do list: Art Route, Pappajohn Sculpture Park ( 1330 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA , 515-237-1386) , Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden ( 909 Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA , 515-323-6290) , Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden ( 1716 Locust St., Des Moines, IA , 515-284-3994) , Iowa State Fair Where to stay: Surety Hotel ( 206 6th Ave., Des Moines, IA , 515-985-2066) First song on your playlist: “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash The trek: 5.5 hours north of Springfield

Iowa City, Iowa

Who it’s for: Football fan families Why it’s great: The city comes alive during football weekends, so you can take your kids to get the fan experience and then explore kid-friendly fun. Must-do list: University of Iowa Hawkeyes football, Iowa Children’s Museum ( 1451 Coral Ridge Ave., Coralville, IA , 319-625-6255) , Devonian Fossil Gorge ( 2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA , 319-338-3543 ext. 6300) , Natural History Museum (on campus) Where to stay: The Highlander Hotel ( 2525 Highlander Pl., Iowa City, IA , 319-354-2000) First song on your playlist: “Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham The trek: 6.5 hours north of Springfield

Memphis, Tennessee

Who it’s for: Elvis super-fans Why it’s great: There is so much music history—from Elvis’s home at Graceland to the Sun Studio, where Johnny Cash recorded hits. Must-do list: Graceland, Beale Street, Sun Studio, Memphis in May Where to stay: The Peabody Hotel ( 149 Union Ave., Memphis, TN , 901-529-4000) First song on your playlist:  “Graceland” by Paul Simon The trek: 5.5 hours southeast

More Than Six Hours Away

French Lick, Indiana

Who it’s for: Couples on a romantic anniversary trip Why it’s great:  The resort is actually two beautiful hotels—French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel—set a mile apart. Both earned notoriety from the medicinal waters that flow through the property. Today though, guests come to enjoy a poolside afternoon, hike miles of trails in the adjacent Hoosier National Forest, saddle up for a trail ride, take aim on the shooting clay range, try their luck in the onsite casino, hit the links or just sit on the expansive front porch with a cool drink and watch the world go by. Be sure to make a reservation for a window table in 1875: The Steakhouse at French Lick Springs Hotel for a romantic dinner. Bonus: French Lick is the childhood home of basketball great Larry Bird. Must-do list: 1875: The Steakhouse ( 8670 W., IN-56, French Lick, IN , 812-936-8001) , Hoosier National Forest Where to stay: French Lick Resort ( 8670 IN-56, French Lick, IN , 888-976-3617) First song on your playlist: “Night and Day” by Diana Krall The trek: Seven hours east.

Louisville,  Kentucky

Who it’s for: Kentucky Derby bucket listers Why it’s great:  With more than 100 years of refined elegance, The Brown Hotel is the pride of Louisville. It’s easy to see why. Walking through the lobby, you can almost feel money dripping from the ceiling and oozing from the walls. After a day at the races, the lobby bar makes for a perfect place to celebrate your winnings or drown your losses with a tumbler of smooth Kentucky bourbon. Louisville is home to Churchill Downs with a live racing season in May, June, September and early October. No trip to The Brown Hotel is complete without ordering the world-famous Hot Brown, an open-faced turkey, cheese, bacon, tomato and mornay sauce sandwich, created at the hotel in 1926. It’s a knife and fork heart attack on a plate. Must-do list: The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs Where to stay: The Brown Hotel ( 335 W. Broadway, Louisville, KY , 888-888-5252) First song on your playlist: “The Race is On” by George Jones The trek: Seven hours east of Springfield.

Nashville, Tennessee

Who it’s for: Country music fanatics Why it’s great: When we think of Nashville, we think of the sound of live music pouring out of every bar along Broadway! Must-do list: Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ( 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, TN , 615-416-2001) , Grand Ole Opry ( 2804 Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN , 615-871-6779) , Lou/Na Rooftop Bar ( 1000 Broadway, Nashville, TN , 615-622-1234) , Prince’s Hot Chicken , honky tonk hopping on Broadway or 12 South. Where to stay: Dream Nashville Hotel ( 210 4th Ave. N, Nashville, TN , 615-622-0600) First song on your playlist: “Outside Nashville City Limits” by Joan Baez The trek: Seven hours east of Springfield

Mason City, Iowa

Who it’s for: Lovers of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture (and The Music Man ) Why it’s great: The Park Inn is the last Frank Lloyd Wright-designed hotel in the world. Built in 1912, it has been a hotel, an office building, a strip club and then a vacant eyesore. In the early 2000s, The Park Inn underwent a 12-year, $18 million renovation to restore it to its Prairie School-style beauty. An adjacent law office, also designed by Wright, was incorporated into the hotel to allow for 27 boutique hotel rooms. There’s also a wonderful restaurant and downstairs lounge. But The Park Inn isn’t the only Wright-related architectural draw. Many of his students designed homes in the Prairie School style and they are scattered throughout Mason City. An easy-to-follow driving tour map is available from the visitor’s center. Mason City is also home to Meredith Wilson who wrote The Music Man . Ya got trouble, right here in Mason City, er, I mean, River City. The driving tour includes Wilson’s home. Where to stay:   The Park Inn ( 7 W. State St., Mason City, IA , 641-422-0015) First song on your playlist: “That’ll Be the Day” by Buddy Holly (Holly died in a plane crash just outside Mason City) The trek: Go to Kansas City, get on I-35 north. Seven hours driving time. (On the way take a detour to Winterset, IA and see the covered bridges of Madison Country.)

Direct Flights from Springfield and Branson

Don’t feel like driving? There are 14 direct-flight destinations from the Springfield National Airport or Branson Airport —so you can travel far without the hassle.

Charlotte, NC

Flight time: 2 hours 10 minutes Must-do:   Charlotte Motor Speedway and NASCAR Hall of Fame Must-yum:   Stoke Restaurant

Chicago, IL

Flight time: 1 hour 50 minutes Must-do:   Field Museum , Museum of Science and Industry and Art Institute of Chicago Must-yum:   Giordano’s Chicago Style Pizza

Flight time: 1 hour 40 minutes Must-do:  Dallas Cowboys game, John F. Kennedy Memorial Must-yum:   STIRR Restaurant

Los Angeles, CA

Flight time: 3 hours 40 minutes Must-do:   Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel , Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign Must-yum:  Mírame [Editor's Note: As of June 2023, Mírame is closed.]

Las Vegas, NV

Flight time: 3 hours 10 minutes Must-do:  Casino-hop on the strip, Cirque du Soleil, Fremont Street Experience Must-yum:   Bazaar Meat by José Andrés

Orlando, FL

Flight time: 2 hours 10 minutes Must-do:   Walt Disney World Resort , The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Must-yum:  Dole Whip float at Disney World

Flight time: 2 hours 5 minutes Must-do:   Busch Gardens , historic Ybor City, Tampa River Walk Must-yum:  Cuban at The Columbia Restaurant

Phoenix, AZ

Flight time: 2 hours 55 minutes Must-do:   Desert Botanical Garden , Heard Museum , Camelback Mountain hike Must-yum:   Kai Restaurant

Houston, TX

Flight time:  2 hours 15 minutes Must-do:   Space Center Houston , Houston Museum of Natural Science Must-yum:   Hugo’s

Flight time:  1 hours 45 minutes Must-do:   Henderson Beach State Park ,  Destin Harbor Boardwalk , Crab Island Must-yum:   Beach Walk Cafe

Atlanta, GA

Flight time:  1 hour 50 minutes Must-do:   Georgia Aquarium , World of Coca-Cola , Centennial Olympic Park Must-yum:   Bacchanalia

Flight time:  2 hours 20 minutes Must-do:   Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater , Denver Beer Trail , Rocky Mountain National Park Must-yum:   Safta Restaurant

Punta Gorda, FL

Flight time:  2 hours 25 minutes Must-do:   Don Pedro Island State Park , Fisherman’s Village, Little Gasparilla Island Must-yum:   The Perfect Caper

Flight time:  1 hour 40 minutes Must-do:   Austin City Limits Festival , South by Southwest Must-yum:   Barley Swine

About the Writer

Katie Pollock Estes is the Editorial Director at 417 Magazine . Katie has been working at 417 since December 2005. Her role includes writing, editing and planning stories while leading the team that produces 417 ’s editorial content. Read more about Katie .

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Riverside, CA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Riverside is one of the largest cities in the Inland Empire east of Los Angeles. Palm trees line the sidewalks of this city of 300,000 people, and stunning Southern California architecture defines the sprawling downtown streets. The historic Mission Inn , at the heart of the downtown district, sets the tone for the rest of the city, with impressive Spanish-Revival architecture that encompasses an entire city block.

This lively downtown historic district is just the tip of things to do in Riverside, and the beautiful weather throughout the year lends to plenty of warm-weather activities. From drive-in theaters in the dead of winter to botanic gardens always in bloom, Riverside encapsulates the many reasons why people move to Southern California.

Other Riverside attractions include historic parks, art centers, and metropolitan museums. And whatever the activity, enjoy views of the Box Spring Mountains jutting on the horizon. These scrambly peaks are enjoyed upon closer inspection at places like UC Riverside Botanic Gardens and Box Spring Mountain Preserve.

Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in Riverside, CA.

1. Mission Inn

2. mount rubidoux park, 3. california citrus state historic park, 4. uc riverside botanic gardens, 5. van buren drive-in theater, 6. march field air museum, 7. main street mall, 8. riverside art museum, 9. santa ana river trail, 10. riverside metropolitan museum, 11. fairmount park, 12. sycamore canyon wilderness park, 13. fox performing arts center, 14. box springs mountain preserve, 15. castle park, 16. riverside national cemetery, where to stay in riverside, california for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in riverside, ca, riverside, ca - climate chart.

The historic Mission Inn is an aesthetic piece of Spanish Mission architecture that sets the tone for the rest of the downtown district. It occupies an entire block with a castle-like presence. And while this historic hotel has a long legacy in the city, it offers modern comfort and luxury at the heart of downtown.

From a boarding house to bankruptcy and more than one renovation, the hotel's history spans over a century and is felt within the walls and stylish decor. And as one of the best hotels in Riverside, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa allows guests to continue the legacy of overnight visits.

Guests at the hotel stay in uniquely decorated rooms that have been preserved to keep their historic character. Overnight visits also include admission to other parts of the Mission Inn not seen on public tours. For the public, the Mission Inn Museum offers 75-minute, docent-led tours of the mansion throughout the week, and anyone is welcome to experience the elegant lobby on their own.

The Mission Inn is also home to numerous award-winning restaurants including Duane's Prime Steaks and Seafood . Reservations are recommended at this popular surf and turf restaurant.

For holiday cheer, the Mission Inn hosts a Festival of Lights for six weeks at the end of every year. Commencing with an eye-catching "Switch-On" ceremony, over five million holiday lights illuminate the hotel in an instant, followed by a high-flying fireworks show. Alongside the lights, tourists encounter animatronic displays, horse-drawn carriages, and even some freshly falling snow.

Address: 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California

Official site: https://missioninnmuseum.org/

Mount Rubidoux is a landmark of the city and home to one of the most popular hikes for residents and tourists. Various paved routes take visitors to the top of the mountain, taking anywhere between one and three miles from any starting trailhead to reach the summit. Cacti and wildflowers line the route, as well as many historical markers that represent the city's past.

A symbolic peace tower spans the trail at the top of Rubidoux, and a large American flag waves proudly in the air. A massive cross also overlooks the city and stone-carved steps are available for sitting. This cross is the site of the oldest outdoor Easter sunset service in the country, a treasured tradition in Riverside since 1909.

The entire Inland Empire is also on display atop Rubidoux with a 360-degree perspective, providing a great place to pack a lunch and enjoy the view. Depending on the route, the trip up and down generally takes between two and three hours, also depending on how much time is spent admiring the panoramic landscape.

Expect to meet other people along the wide trail to the top, especially on the weekends. Visitors will also want to bring their own water along for the hike. It's a dog-friendly trail with leashes required throughout.

Address: 4706 Mount Rubidoux Drive, Riverside, California

This 250-acre state park is southwest of the downtown district and is dedicated to the citrus legacy of the state, also known as the second Gold Rush of California. Colorful citrus groves encompass half of this historic park, demonstrating the significant landscape in California history. And the visitor center tells the story of the citrus industry with interpretive displays and exhibits.

An old-fashioned fruit stand shaped like a giant orange greets visitors at the entrance of the State Citrus Historic Park, as well as tall palm trees. A fully accessible paved trail connects the visitor and Sunkist Center, meandering through the sagebrush and citrus grove environment.

The park offers guided tours of the grove on the weekends, as well as fresh citrus sampling on the back porch of the Sunkist Center. A beautiful gazebo outside the Sunkist Center makes for a great place to enjoy a picnic or fresh piece of fruit.

Address: 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, California

Official site: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=649

These botanic gardens welcome visitors into a lush environment on the University of California, Riverside campus, in the foothills of Box Springs Mountain. Four miles of trails explore the garden's 40 acres, with well-placed benches and interpretive information along the way.

The core of the botanic gardens features a paved accessible path. This wide trail passes by several gardens and areas, spanning from a North American Desert section to a South African Garden and Lilac Lane. Also on the route is an expansive rose garden and butterfly garden.

For more information on the types of plants at the UCR Botanic Gardens, as well as their history of use within the region, docent-led tours are available for school groups and members of the public.

Address: 1 Botanic Gardens Drive, Riverside, California

Official site: https://gardens.ucr.edu/

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater is a favorite for families and cinephiles alike. It's in the historic Arlington district of Riverside, near the California State Citrus Historic Park, and it's one of few thriving drive-in theaters remaining in the nation.

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater retains its novelty while showcasing the latest in blockbuster entertainment. Movies play seven nights a week, with admission prices that easily undercut big movie theater chains. Concessions include a multitude of candy, hot dogs, and other classic movie-going fare.

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater is also home to a popular Swap Meet with over 300 vendors. This shopping market takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from the early morning to late afternoon.

Address: 3035 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, California

Official site: https://vanburendriveintheatre.com/

The March Field Air Museum features over 70 aircraft and thousands of artifacts on display, spanning an aviation timeline of over 100 years. These generations of aircraft are displayed both inside and outside the museum, with several of the bigger planes parked near the hangar.

Spy planes, bombers, helicopters, and unmanned aircraft span the grounds where visitors can inspect these aircraft up close. More aircraft are seen within the interior of the museum, alongside numerous interpretive exhibits and historical artifacts. Forty-five-minute tram tours are also available throughout the day, led by a knowledgeable guide.

Address: 22550 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, California

Official site: https://www.marchfield.org/

Main Street Mall is the main downtown pedestrian corridor, connecting small shops, historic sites, and the local flavors of the vibrant community. It's landscaped with gardens, fountains, and an abundance of shade-producing trees, offering many opportunities to take a seat and enjoy the day.

Historical and cultural attractions also line Main Street Mall, including the Mission Inn , as well as the California Museum of Photography . Patio seating is available at many of the local eateries in this part of town, ranging from casual bites to upscale Italian fare.

Address: Main Street, Riverside, California

The Riverside Art Museum displays rotating exhibits supplemented with a permanent collection of over 1,500 artworks. It's less than two blocks from the historic Mission Inn and always with something new on display. Several mediums are also on display, ranging from lithographs to posters and watercolor paintings.

Every first Thursday of the month, the Riverside Art Museum participates in the city-wide Arts Walk, with free admission and cultural entertainment. The museum is closed on Mondays. And Members of the military and their families always receive free admission to this Blue Star Museum.

Address: 3425 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California

Official site: http://www.riversideartmuseum.org/

When completed, the Santa Ana River Trail will run 110 miles between San Bernardino National Forest and the ocean at Huntington Beach. The trail is approximately 60 percent complete currently and follows its namesake river the entire way. The portion that weaves along the northwest side of Riverside is fully intact, and it connects several of the city's most sterling outdoor spaces.

Notable stops along the Santa Ana River Trail in Riverside include Fairmount Park and Mount Rubidoux . Farther south, the trail also passes through Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park , a popular disc golf destination in Riverside. And farther south still, the trail navigates through the Santa Ana River Wildlife Area, which offers a true escape from the city streets.

The trail is paved with compact gravel on either side. It's popular with bicyclists, walkers, runners, and sometimes horseback riders. Water facilities are available at the different parks along the trail, but users should pack in some of their own, especially during the summer.

This downtown museum dates back to the 1920s, when it first opened as the Riverside Municipal Museum. Since then, the museum's collection has grown to encompass a wide variety of artifacts from across the region. And the name change in 1991 to the Riverside Metropolitan Museum reflects that broader focus.

Today, the three prongs of the museum's collection are history, natural sciences, and anthropology. Visitors learn about subjects like native rocks and minerals and the vast citrus industry behind the city's early growth. The entire collection is displayed with eye-catching displays, including 3D dioramas and several photographs.

The Riverside Metropolitan Museum also oversees the Heritage House south of downtown. This restored Victorian estate features authentic turn-of-the-century furnishings and decor, giving a glimpse into an affluent lifestyle of the 1800s. Guided tours are available between approximately September and June.

Note: Due to renovation work, check the museum's website before visiting to make sure it is open.

Official site: https://www.riversideca.gov/museum/

Fairmount Park provides an abundance of open space to explore next to Mount Rubidoux Park. A scenic bike trail circles Lake Evans, the park's defining water feature, and connects other park amenities like a bandshell, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a historic boathouse where pedal boats are available to rent.

A decorative wrought-iron fence encloses one of the most eye-catching features at Fairmount Park–a large rose garden on the south side of Lake Evans. Roses are typically in full bloom by May. This is a pleasant place to stroll, photograph, or host a special occasion.

Address: 2601 Fairmount Blvd, Riverside, California

Encompassing 1,500 acres near downtown, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park is home to wildlife, open space, and a sprawling network of trails. Hiking, running, and mountain biking are popular ways to explore the park. These activities are best done in the early morning or late evening during the summer.

An abundance of wildlife is sighted within Sycamore Canyon, including rattlesnakes, and this wilderness area is also filled with rare and native plants like scarlet monkeyflower and Fremont cottonwood. The Ameal Moore Nature Center at the main entrance to the park provides habitat information and hands-on educational opportunities for kids.

Address: 400 Central Ave, Riverside, California

The Fox Performing Arts Center is a celebrated entertainment venue in Riverside and the main stage for live music, comedy, and festivals in the city. It was built in a Spanish Colonial Revival style in 1929 and first opened as a vaudeville and cinema theater house. A 2007 renovation transformed this historic theater into the modern centerpiece of entertainment it is today.

The neighboring Riverside Municipal Auditorium , operated by the same production company, features a similar lineup of live music and performances.

Address: 3801 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California

Official site: http://www.riversidelive.com/

Adjacent to the University of California, Riverside campus, Box Springs Mountain Preserve allows visitors to walk right into nature the moment they step out of the car. It's a welcome escape, easily accessible from downtown, and the steady stream of traffic nearby dissipates the farther you head up one of the trails to the top of this 3,000-foot mountain.

A recommended but rugged route to the top, the "M" Trail tests the legs and delivers on a 360-degree view encompassing Riverside and Moreno Valley.

Address: Hidden Springs Drive, Moreno Valley, California

Official site: https://www.rivcoparks.org/box-springs-mountain-reserve/

Castle Park is a popular amusement park on the south side of the city, less than three miles from California Citrus State Historic Park. It features several attractions that appeal to children and adults alike, including mini-golf, a water park, and carnival rides. Other notable amusements include an arcade, live performances, and seasonal festivals.

The Ride Park is perhaps the most popular place at Castle Park. This jam-packed area has over 20 rides, ranging from spinning flying saucers to the Riverside Express train ride. This area of the park has a varying schedule throughout the year. Check the official website for current operating hours.

The mini-golf at Castle Park is also particularly fun and available year-round. It features four highly themed 18-hole courses with several constructed features like windmills and pagodas. Visitors can opt for a single 18 or buy a pass to play all four courses.

Official site: https://www.castlepark.com/

The Riverside National Cemetery is on the other side of I-215 from the March Field Air Museum. It features solemn grounds and available space for veterans to rest in peace. This is the third-largest cemetery operated by the National Cemetery Administration, and any member of the armed forces who have met a minimum active-duty requirement is eligible for burial on the grounds. Recreational activities like walking, jogging, bicycling, and photographing are not allowed at the cemetery.

Luxury Hotels :

• For one of Riverside's most authentic and luxurious stays, check out The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa . This historic place to stay features a distinct Mission-Revival architecture, alongside an elegant tone with several authentic furnishings and decor. The hotel offers 238 guest rooms, including 27 suites, all uniquely decorated for a new experience with each stay. Celebrities, world leaders, and thousands of tourists have enjoyed the escapism offered by the hotel over the years. Other resort amenities include fine dining, a beautiful outdoor pool, and professional services at Kelly's Spa.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• With an excellent location downtown, the Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center is one of the city's most popular hotels. It attracts all types of visitors, but it is particularly well used by visiting professionals. The hotel makes it easy to stay connected with free, fast Wi-Fi; a dedicated business center; and proximity to many professional establishments, including the Convention Center. And for after work, the upscale accommodations and amenities, like an outdoor pool and on-site dining, make it easy to relax.
• The newly built Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown features 125 guest rooms spread between five floors. The hotel has a modern appeal, with stylish common areas and comfortable decor. This sense of style extends into the overnight accommodations, which include spacious guest rooms and one-bedroom suites. Alongside signature Hyatt Grand Beds, each room features dedicated work areas, coffee makers, and free internet access. Select rooms at the hotel are pet-friendly.
• On the southwest side of town, Hampton Inn & Suites Riverside/Corona East provides a quiet place to rest between exploring the city. This reputable hotel has over 130 guest rooms, all non-smoking, with modern and comfortable decor. Spacious suites are also available, featuring an extra sitting room. Every overnight accommodation comes with a coffee maker, high definition TV, and complimentary internet access. Other convenient amenities include complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a business center.
• For a more centrally located hotel, the Hampton Inn Riverside Downtown is a prime spot for exploring the city. Just a few blocks from top attractions like the Fox Performing Arts Center and the Mission Inn Museum, the hotel is popular for a car-free vacation. Several other downtown amenities, including an abundance of restaurants, are also nearby. And the hotel's 140 well-appointed rooms make relaxing and getting a good night's sleep easy to do at the end of the day.

Budget Hotels :

• For budget-conscious travelers, Americas Best Value Inn Riverside provides one of the best deals in town. The hotel has an excellent reputation for clean and tidy facilities, as well as outstanding customer service at the 24/7 front desk. It's a popular hotel for family travel, in part because of the low overnight rates. The hotel's also in a prime location, steps away from downtown Riverside. The hotel is also a quick 40-mile drive to Disneyland Park in Anaheim.
• On the other side of Highway 91 from downtown, Thunderbird Lodge offers another dependable stay with budget-friendly prices. The hotel provides a blast from the past in a historic property with modern renovations. Overnight accommodations include standard rooms and suites equipped with extra sitting space. Every room features personal air-conditioners, complimentary Wi-Fi, and blackout shades. Some rooms are pet-friendly. Complimentary parking is also available.

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California Touring : For those visiting the Golden State and looking for places to add to the itinerary, our page on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in California can point you towards the best there is to see. Even more attractions can be found with our article on the best places to visit in California , and for an extra-special vacation, the top romantic getaways in California really set the mood.

More to Explore in the Inland Empire: Riverside's neighboring city, San Bernardino also has a long list of fun things to do and places to visit, including the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest. Farther west, towards the desert attractions of Joshua Tree National Park , the city of Palm Springs presents great weather throughout the year and plenty of tourist attractions, and the best resorts in Palms Springs provide upscale places to stay.

Visiting Los Angeles : The sprawling city of Los Angeles is worth a visit. Alongside the best beaches of Los Angeles , the city provides endless avenues of entertainment, culture, and things to do.

More on California

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Best Fun Places to Go Near Me

Want to get out on the town and not sure what to do? Before you start planning your next adventure, check out these fun places to go. From museums, parks, and local attractions to quirky restaurants and entertainment venues, there’s all kinds of enjoyment to be had in your area. No matter what you like doing, you’ll find something fun on this page.

• Emporium Arcade Bar

616 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA

• Glass Ceiling

1067 Market St, San Francisco, CA

• Exploratorium After Dark

Pier 15, San Francisco, CA

Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze

Pier 39, San Francisco, CA

Seward Mini Park

70 Corwin St, San Francisco, CA

Post And Buchanan, San Francisco, CA

Conservatory of Flowers

100 John F Kennedy Dr, San Francisco, CA

Free Gold Watch

1767 Waller St, San Francisco, CA

The Gregangelo Museum

San Francisco, CA

432 Octavia Blvd, San Francisco, CA

7D Experience

39 Pier, San Francisco, CA

364 11th St, San Francisco, CA

The Speakeasy

644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA

Closes in 56 minutes

Museum Of 3D Illusions

55-61 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA

2032 Union St, San Francisco, CA

San Francisco Street Food Festival

420 22nd St, San Francisco, CA

Most Reviewed Fun Places to Go Near Me

• de Young Museum

50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA

Closes in 11 minutes

354 11th St, San Francisco, CA

Musée Mécanique

Pier 45, San Francisco, CA

375 Bush St, San Francisco, CA

160 Beacon St, South San Francisco, CA

Oakland Museum of California

1000 Oak St, Oakland, CA

5690 Bay St, Emeryville, CA

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40 great day trips near philadelphia, art, history and the great outdoors — all in philly’s backyard....

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Historic homes, fascinating museums, gorgeous gardens, shopping havens and sprawling parks await visitors venturing outside the city into Philadelphia’s Countryside for an exciting (or relaxing) day trip.

Towns and boroughs throughout Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties offer adventures for nature lovers, art appreciators and history buffs, as well as some of the best shopping on the East Coast.

Historic sites like Valley Forge National Historical Park and Brandywine Battlefield take visitors back to the days of the Revolutionary War. Outdoor adventures await at preserves and parks like John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and Ringing Rocks Park . The expertly landscaped Chanticleer and Longwood Gardens delight guests with themed gardens and bountiful floral displays. And Elmwood Park Zoo and Sesame Place entertain kids with furry friends. Wrap it all up with some retail therapy at shopping destinations like Peddler’s Village and Suburban Square .

Check out our guide to 40 of Greater Philadelphia’s most awesome attractions for fun day trips — all located within a one-hour drive of Center City Philadelphia .

Brandywine Museum of Art and The N.C. Wyeth House & Studio

The grounds are as breathtaking as the art at the bucolic Brandywine Museum of Art , housed in a renovated 1864 gristmill surrounded by wildflower gardens and the meandering Brandywine River. Inside, works by Andrew Wyeth sit beside other beautifully detailed illustrations, paintings and installations along with permanent and rotating exhibitions. Cross the road to visit the N.C. Wyeth House & Studio , the 1922 family home and workspace of Andrew’s father, a National Historic Landmark with Colonial Revival architecture, country furnishings, illustration tools, and many Wyeth relics including a birch-bark canoe and a firearm collection.

Where: Brandywine Museum of Art and The N.C. Wyeth House & Studio, 1 Hoffmans Mill Road, Chadds Ford

Fonthill Castle

Former home to archeologist, anthropologist and ceramist Henry Chapman Mercer, Fonthill Castle is a 115-year-old museum displaying Mercer’s massive collection of prints, books and handcrafted ceramic tiles produced at his historic Tile Works (see above). The collection — including a 2,000-year-old whale oil lamp and cuneiform tablets dating back four millennia — is spread among mansion’s 44 rooms and 32 stairwells. As impressive as the relics, the building features 200 windows, 23 chimneys, and a bevy of turrets and balconies (plus 11 bathrooms!). The castle hosts year-round programming, including summer festivals, fall ghost tours and foodie events.

Where: Fonthill Castle, 525 E. Court Street, Doylestown

King of Prussia, a Simon Property Mall

With over 450 stores and at nearly 3 million square feet, King of Prussia, a Simon Property Mall is the third-largest in America and the premier shopping destination on the East Coast. Together, The Court, The Plaza and The Pavilion welcome around 20 million visitors each year to anchor stores like Nordstrom; shops like Tiffany & Co., Sur La Table, Givenchy and Versace; and 17 dining options for on-the-go eats or sit-down relaxing. Get there via SEPTA’s M line (formerly the Norristown High Speed Line) or grab one of the center’s 13,000 parking spaces.

Where: King of Prussia, a Simon Property Mall, 160 N. Gulph Road, King of Prussia

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia

Are you a LEGO maniac? Then head to the 33,000-square-foot LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Montgomery County’s Plymouth Meeting Mall. Designed for kids 3 to 10, the indoor LEGO playground offers a dozen LEGO-themed rides and attractions (including the Imagination Express and Great LEGO Race Virtual Reality Experience), a 4D cinema, create-your-own build stations, LEGO workshops with master builders and the LEGO Ninjago Training Camp — plus a themed café and LEGO store. Don’t miss Miniland, with huge miniature recreations of Philly’s most iconic buildings and landmarks created from over 1 million LEGO bricks.

Where: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia, 500 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting

Linvilla Orchards

One of the last working farms in Delaware County , the year-round fun of Linvilla Orchards offers pick-your-own apples, peaches, berries, corn and more, plus fun-filled festivals and educational programs built around them. Visitors can stop by the open-daily, always-fresh farmers market, or enjoy seasonal events and activities like fall’s Pumpkinland for hayrides and pumpkin carving and Christmas Around the Farm’s chop-down-your-own Christmas tree and a holiday gift market.

Where: Linvilla Orchards, 137 W. Knowlton Road, Media

Longwood Gardens

At over a thousand acres, Longwood Gardens is Philly’s largest and arguably most famous botanical garden, named No. 1 on Fodor’s list of Best Botanical Gardens Across the United States . Pierre du Pont’s tranquil horticultural oasis showcases nearly 10,000 varieties among its indoor and outdoor grounds. Guests can enjoy permanent exhibits like the Green Wall, Orchid House and Hillside Garden, as well as the seasonal Illuminated Fountain Performances (color-lighted musical dancing water shows at the center of a magnificent five-acre fountain garden) and elaborate installations like the late-winter Orchid Extravaganza, Chrysanthemum Festival and A Longwood Christmas .

Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square

Peddler's Village

Popular Lahaska shopping haven Peddler’s Village welcomes more than 1.6 million visitors a year to enjoy its 70-plus charming colonial-style independent boutiques, specialty shops, wineries and restaurants ringing the storybook-like landscaped grounds connected by winding brick pathways. While browsing through vintage apparel, handmade jewelry, and local art and craft stores, take a moment to stop by the flowing fountains, Zen gardens and historic carousel, and check the village’s calendar for annual festivals celebrating strawberries, blueberries, apples, scarecrows, gingerbread houses and other seasonal events.

Where: Peddler's Village, 2400 Street Road, New Hope

Ridley Creek State Park and Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation

Delaware County’s Ridley Creek State Park is a 2,600-acre oasis of wooded trails and rolling hills perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking and horseback riding trails, a creek stocked with trout, park space for archery and deer hunting, and picnic areas. History buffs can explore the former workers’ cottages, mill dam and historic buildings in the 18th-century milling village known as Sycamore Mills and visit the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation , the 112-acre Pratt family farm that operated from 1720 to 1820 that’s now a living history site.

Where: Ridley Creek State Park and Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media

Sesame Place

We’ll tell you how to get, how to get to Sesame Place , the only Sesame Street -themed amusement park east of California. Fans can meet their furry friends like Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Elmo and many more lovable costumed characters along with experiencing kid-level thrills on 35 rides and water attractions. The 14-acre park also features carnival games, plenty of refreshments and concessions, daily (and nightly) parades, and special festivities like character birthdays and the popular A Very Furry Christmas celebration. Sesame Place is open seasonally from spring through the holiday season.

Where: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

Valley Forge National Historical Park

The difficult 1777-1778 winter the Continental Army spent at at Valley Forge went down as one of the Revolutionary War’s most trying periods. Today, Valley Forge National Historical Park honors those who encamped here with monuments, statues and buildings throughout the grounds, along with replicated huts, General Washington’s original headquarters, the National Memorial Arch , and a recently renovated visitor center that features artifacts and a lifesize statue of the future first President. The 3,500-acre park also includes scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and miles of recreational trails where runners and cyclists can cruise the park.

Where: Valley Forge National Historical Park, 1400 N. Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia

Historical Sites

Brandywine battlefield park.

What is now known as Brandywine Battlefield Park was the site of the longest single-day battle for George Washington and his Continental Army in the entire Revolutionary War. Stop by the visitor venter to explore the on-site museum and exhibition, take a self-guided tour or explore two onsite historic homes : the Benjamin Ring House, a reconstruction of the home that Washington used as battlefield headquarters, and the Gideon Gilpin House where the Marquis de Lafayette stayed before the battle, complete with an 18th-century cookware collection.

Where: Brandywine Battlefield Park, 1491 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford

Glencairn Museum and Bryn Athyn Historic District

The Glencairn Museum in Montgomery County ’s Bryn Athyn Historic District is one of the nation’s largest museums dedicated to religious art and history, containing nearly 8,000 works from across ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, medieval Europe and Asia, early Islamic and Indigenous nations, and more. The gallery also features a large collection of Nativity art, including stained-glass windows, sculptures, manuscripts and paintings. Also in the historic district: the 26,000-square-foot Gilded Age-era Cairnwood Estate historic home and gardens, as well as the picturesque Early Gothic-style Swedenborgian Bryn Athyn Cathedral .

Where: Glencairn Museum and Bryn Athyn Historic District, 1005 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn

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Cairnwood Estate, 1005 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn

Bryn Athyn Cathedral, 900 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Tucked into the expanse of French Creek State Park in rural Chester County , historic Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is home to 14 now-restored structures that were part of a colonial-era iron-producing village that relied on free labor and the work of enslaved people. Nature lovers enjoy birding and photography opportunities, and visitors can participate in demonstrations of crafts, agriculture and other 19th-century activities.

Where: Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, 2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson

Pearl S. Buck International

Bucks County ’s Pearl S. Buck International — the early 18th-century Perkasie estate and farmhouse of the Nobel Prize-winning author — is home to a museum featuring a plethora of The Good Earth writer’s personal belongings on display, including the typewriter she used to pen the classic historical fiction novel. Visitors to the site, often referred to as Green Hill Farms, can tour her former home, the stunning gardens and Buck’s nearby gravesite.

Where: Pearl S. Buck International, 520 Dublin Road, Perkasie

Washington Crossing Historic Park

Both a preserved historic site and nature area, Washington Crossing Historic Park offers visitors a chance to see where General George Washington and his troops covertly crossed the Delaware River in the dark of Christmas night 1776 on their way to key victories at Trenton and Princeton. The park, open daily, features a bevy of historic sites including Thompson-Neely House & Grist Mill and Bowman’s Hill Tower plus a visitor center, walking paths, picnic pavilions, fishing areas and boat launches. Come back Christmas Day to view the annual reenactment of the famous crossing.

Where: Washington Crossing Historic Park, 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing

Delaware Canal State Park

A 60-mile linear park along the Delaware River from Easton to Bristol, Delaware Canal State Park calls to joggers and cyclists, as well as nature enthusiasts who enjoy the wildlife that thrives along the river shoreline and nearly a dozen river islands. There’s plenty of fun on the water, too, as the river and canal the path follows offer ample opportunities for fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

Where: Multiple points of entry including 603 Jefferson Avenue, Bristol

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

Established in 1972, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is a 1,000-acre park just outside Philadelphia International Airport built to protect the largest freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania. The refuge, which lies mostly in Delaware County , is an urban enclave for outdoor recreation featuring 10 miles of low-lying trails for hiking and biking and four-and-a-half miles of tidal creek and boat ramps for canoeing, kayaking and fishing access. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting the over 300 varieties of resident and migratory birds, rare plants and numerous land animals, including several endangered species.

Where: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard

Nockamixon State Park

Southeastern Pennsylvania’s largest lake — located inside the 5,000-acre Nockamixon State Park — is a great spot for boaters and fishers of all types. Visitors can find more than 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, picnic sites, and four public launching areas for boats. Park rentals include motorboats, paddleboats and canoes, and the seven-mile-long Lake Nockamixon welcomes fishers of bass, pickerel, catfish and beyond.

Where: Nockamixon State Park, 1542 Mountain View Drive, Quakertown

Ringing Rocks County Park

Bring your own hammer (no joke!) to Ringing Rocks Park , a seven-acre field of hulking round stones that respond to strategic whacks and thumps with the sound of ringing bells. Climb onto the field and start banging away on the primordial igneous diabase boulders to experience an unexpected and unforgettable melodic geological sound created by a combination of melting permafrost, weathering and rock shape. Once through the boulder field, visitors can continue on into the 123-acre park, a dense forest for hikers, bikers and picnickers which also features High Falls, Bucks County ’s highest waterfall.

Where: Ringing Rocks County Park, 1924 Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy

Art Museums

George nakashima woodworkers.

The Nakashima family incorporates its samurai roots, as well as experiences in construction and art, to its museum-like George Nakashima Woodworkers furniture studio. The grounds double as the family’s private residence, and visitors are welcome by appointment into the showroom, finishing room, chair shop and Conoid Studio. The hand-crafted wood pieces are designed with art and utility in mind.

Where: George Nakashima Woodworkers, 1847 Aquetong Road, New Hope

James A. Michener Art Museum

Pennsylvania impressionist paintings take center stage at the James A. Michener Art Museum , named for the Pulitzer Prize-awarded and Doylestown native writer of classics like Centennial , The Source , Chesapeake and the novel that inspired the Broadway musical South Pacific . The museum, built from a historic 19th-century prison, also features other historical and contemporary works, photography exhibits, a reading room inspired by the sleek woodwork of nearby furniture maker George Nakashima Woodworkers (see above), an outdoor sculpture garden and a terrace built in the original prison yard.

Where: James A. Michener Art Museum, 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove

Opened in 2019, the immersive John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove museum and nature facility occupies the site of famed ornithologist and environmentalist John James Audubon’s historic 18th-century home. Visitors can explore galleries and exhibits on conservation and art, an outdoor birdwatching area and an interactive exhibit that allows individuals to experience the earliest stages of a bird’s life from egg to first flight. The center rests beside the existing historic house, barn and nature trails located on the farm where an 18-year-old Audubon lived when he first arrived in America in 1803.

Where: John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, 1201 Pawlings Road, Audubon

The TileWorks

Doylestown’s “working history” TileWorks museum (formerly known as Moravian Pottery and TileWorks) is a National Historic Landmark that continues to create handmade tiles in a manner similar to the method established at founder and ceramicist Henry Chapman Mercer’s workshop that produced hand-crafted ceramic tiles during the American Arts & Crafts Movement of the late 19th and early 20th century. Visitors can tour the site to see original displays and get a glimpse of the production process. Pair a visit with stops at the artist’s Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle (see below).

Where: The TileWorks, 130 E. Swamp Road, Doylestown

Wharton Esherick Museum

Deep in the Chester County woods and atop a mountain adjacent to Valley Forge National Historic Park lived wood sculptor Wharton Esherick, “Dean of American Craftsmen,” whose work can be seen at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Upon his death in 1970, his magnificent hand-built, 12-acre rural modernist home, farmhouse and studio was turned into the Wharton Esherick Museum , an immersive, interactive National Historic Landmark for Architecture featuring 200 of his pieces including works made in collaboration with Philadelphia architect Louis Kahn. Guided tours are available when scheduled in advance.

Where: Wharton Esherick Museum, 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern

Cultural Museums

American helicopter museum & education center.

Nearly three dozen helicopters, autogiros, convertiplanes and other spiral wing aircraft are on display at the American Helicopter Museum & Education Center . The nation’s premier rotary flight aviation museum features displays including a model helicopter room with over 400 pieces and an exhibit dedicated to the Whirly-Girls , a pioneering group of women helicopter pilots. Several times a year, guests of all ages have a chance to ride in a helicopter for a bird’s-eye-view of the countryside. If you own your own helicopter (!), you can arrive in rotary style utilizing the adjacent helipad, ramp and runway.

Where: American Helicopter Museum & Education Center, 1220 American Boulevard, West Chester

American Treasure Tour Museum

The American Treasure Tour in Oaks is the region’s kitschiest museum. The 100,000-square-foot collection features over 1 million pieces of American pop culture memorabilia including neon road signs, self-playing orchestras, life-sized cartoon characters, decades of movie posters, herds of stuffed animals and fleets of antique autos … all accessed via an indoor electric tram. The museum is part of The Factory in Oaks complex, which includes Arnold’s Family Fun Center (think go-karts, laser tag, bumper cars and the like), a trampoline park, a rock climbing gym, a bowling center and more.

Where: American Treasure Tour Museum, One American Treasure Way, Oaks

Mercer Museum

The towering castle that houses the Mercer Museum is full of themed rooms dedicated to the tools and crafts of American life before mechanization. Archaeologist, collector and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer founded the museum in 1916 to display his incredible 40,000-piece collection of pre-industrial tools, early manual technologies and crafts related to American life before mechanization including a whaling boat and a Conestoga wagon. Permanent exhibits include the kid-oriented and interactive Animals on the Loose gallery , as well as shoe- and hat-making stations.

Where: Mercer Museum, 84 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

Pennsbury Manor

The statue of William Penn atop Philadelphia’s City Hall gazes down toward the city founder’s landing site at Penn Treaty Park . But it was 22 miles north and 20 years later where Penn resided at the turn of the 18th century in his bucolic Pennsbury Manor country estate on the Delaware River he built for his Quaker family. Visitors to the manor, reconstructed in 1939 and the only museum dedicated to Penn, can check out period furnishings, historical objects, an award-winning exhibit about Penn and his legacy, plus hands-on activities and open hearth cooking demos.

Where: Pennsbury Manor, 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville

Botanical Gardens

Bowman’s hill wildflower preserve.

Head to Bucks County’s historic Pidcock Creek Valley to unwind among 134 acres of 2,000 native plant species and the wildlife that depend on them. Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve ’s grounds span forests, a meadow, hillsides, a creek, two ponds and extensive wetlands. The preserve also offers varied programming for children and adults , including specialty walks like “mornings in the meadow” and forest bathing. Pro tip: View the preserve from above atop the nearby 12-story-tall Bowman’s Hill Tower .

Where: Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, 1635 River Road, New Hope

Chanticleer

The gardeners at 35-acre Chanticleer pleasure botanical garden are also artists, incorporating wood, metal and stone into the lush landscape. The exquisite locale on the grounds of the century-old Rosengarten manor displays over 5,000 plants across a dozen collections from perennials to agricultural crops, tended by in-house landscape artists who design their own installations. Make time for the Teacup Garden, brimming with tropical plants carefully arranged to create a colorful, sensory experience, and the Minder Ruin Garden, a folly built on the main cottage’s foundation resembling ancient ruins overtaken by the elements, including a 24-foot sarcophagus-shaped reflecting pool.

Where: Chanticleer, 786 Church Road, Wayne

Tyler Arboretum

The 650 acres of Tyler Arboretum ’s woodlands, meadows and flora are part of a property that English Quaker Thomas Minshall purchased from William Penn in 1681. With 17 miles of trails, 80-foot-tall trees and delicate wildflowers, it’s one of the region’s oldest and largest public gardens. Adventurers relish solving the seven-ringed Meadow Maze labyrinth, children learn about nature at Discovery Stations, those with decreased vision enjoy the aromatic Fragrant Garden (one of the first designed primarily for people who are blind) and history-lovers can tour several sites on the National Register of Historic Places.

Where: Tyler Arboretum, 515 Painter Road, Media

Family Attractions

Elmwood park zoo.

At the 16-acre Elmwood Park Zoo , guests can meet over 100 species, including bison, zebras, jaguars, red pandas, otters and more — including Liana the two-toed sloth, Penny the American alligator and Noah the bald eagle, the mascot of the Philadelphia Eagles. Families can pet the goats, sheep and donkeys in the barn, feed the giant giraffes (ticket required), ride the zoo-themed carousel or zip line 50 feet above the grounds. Adults can picnic with BYO snacks or grab a craft beer at the Zoo Brew Bar & Beer Garden.

Where: Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown

Herr’s Snack Factory Tour

You can make Herr’s yours, as the slogan goes, with the tasty Herr’s Snack Factory Tour , a guided firsthand learning experience with a behind-the-scenes look at the production floor and factory warehouse where Herr’s Foods’ beloved pretzels, tortillas, popcorn, cheese curls and potato chips are created and packaged. The one-hour tour also includes fresh warm samples, a visit to the gallery in the gift shop, lunch at Chipper’s Café and a myriad of little-known snack facts. Tours run Monday through Wednesday for both folks with reservations and walk-ins.

Where: Herr’s Snack Factory Tour, 271 Old Baltimore Pike, Nottingham

New Hope Railroad

Passengers aboard the 150-year-old New Hope Railroad can enjoy narrated train tours of scenic Bucks County on classic rail cars pulled by either a 1925 steam locomotive or one of two diesel engines that date back to the early 1960s. Coast through the county’s hills and valleys past sprawling farms, historic bridges and other countryside features on one of several trips, including the 45-minute standard tour, 21-plus excursions for wine and cocktail lovers, or one of the seasonal holiday trains from Valentine’s to Christmas.

Where: New Hope Railroad, 32 W. Bridge Street, New Hope

Baldwin’s Book Barn

First established in Delaware in 1934, Baldwin’s Book Barn has been offering used, rare, and fine books along with hundreds of manuscripts, maps and prints at the more “recent” West Chester location since 1946. The friendly-family bookstore is located inside a 200-year-old five-story stone barn housing a collection of over 300,000 items packed into every corner, cranny and hideaway. Named one of the World’s Most Beloved Independent Bookstores by Architectural Digest , everything in the bookshop is available for purchase or for leafing through while lounging in a cozy nook or discussing around the wood-burning stove.

Where: Baldwin's Book Barn, 865 Lenape Road, West Chester

Philadelphia Premium Outlets

Home to more than 135 designer and brand-name factory stores from Coach and Kate Spade to Nike and Swarovski, outdoor shopping plaza Philadelphia Premium Outlets offers 553,000 square feet of deals as big as 70% — all just 35 miles outside of Center City . When all those discounts make you hungry, grab lunch at one of a half-dozen restaurants or the convenient food court — with plenty of outside seating during warmer months.

Where: Philadelphia Premium Outlets, 18 W. Lightcap Road, Pottstown

Suburban Square

Pedestrian-friendly Suburban Square in Ardmore is an upscale outdoor shopping plaza that serves as one of the Main Line’s premier retail and dining destinations. Among the nation’s oldest planned shopping centers (and the first with a department store), the square dates back to the late 1920s. Brands like Apple and Free People have set up here, and visitors can also find affordable silver and gemstones at Dandelion, work up a sweat at SoulCycle, and grab a meal at eateries like Lola’s Garden, DanDan or Sweetgreen. The six-square-block development — which is adjacent to Amtrak and SEPTA’s Ardmore Station — also features a daily farmers market.

Where: Suburban Square, 602 Coulter Avenue, Ardmore

Performing Arts

Bucks county playhouse.

Take in a show at historic Bucks County Playhouse (founded 1751), a theater on the Delaware River in New Hope that presents both local and touring productions that has seen the likes of Grace Kelly, Dick Van Dyke, Robert Redford, Liza Minnelli and more grace the stage converted from a gristmill in 1939. Since a reboot in 2012, the 500-seat theater has hosted several world premieres and has returned to its roots as an incubator for soon-to-be Broadway hits.

Where: Bucks County Playhouse, 70 S. Main Street, New Hope

Hedgerow Theatre

Delaware County’s Hedgerow Theatre , founded in 1923, is a repertory theater and company that has attracted prominent performers to its stage including Keanu Reeves, Paul Robeson and Ann Harding (who purchased and donated the theater to the company in 1931). Hedgerow has also operated as a proving ground for writers like Eugene O’Neill, Langston Hughes and George Bernard Shaw, and features furniture and staircase designs by Wharton Esherick (see above). In addition to general audience productions in the 144-seat playhouse, the “Mother of All Philadelphia Theaters” offers an outdoor children’s theater and innovative sensory-friendly performances.

Where: Hedgerow Theatre, 64 Rose Valley Road, Media

Philadelphia Union and Subaru Park

The Philadelphia Union , the region’s Major League Soccer club, has been thrilling association football fans decked out in navy and gold since 2010 — including capturing the 2020 Supporters’ Shield for the league’s best regular season record, three U.S. Open Cup finals appearances and a run to the MLS championship match in 2022. Beautiful soccer-specific Subaru Park stadium in Chester hosts the Union’s lively home games, led by the friendly-but-rowdy 5,000-member strong Sons of Ben supporters’ group. Bonus: Spectators can enjoy impressive views of the Delaware River and the Commodore Barry Bridge which soars above the site.

Where: Subaru Park, 1 Stadium Drive, Chester

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• Bucks County
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• Delaware County
• Kennett Square
• Montgomery County
• West Chester

Come for Philadelphia. Stay (Over) for Philly.

The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.

Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute, or the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution.

Or maybe you’d prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package.

Which will you choose?

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Rooted in Ohio

31 Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio | Fun Ohio Day Trips

If you live in Ohio, you know all about Columbus, the state’s largest and capital city. Along with being home to Ohio State University and the Buckeye football team, it’s situated halfway between Cincinnati and Cleveland. This means that day trips from Columbus Ohio are already off to a good start.

Whether you want to go north, south, east, or west, you’re not too far from your next adventure if you start in Columbus. You can take a day trip to do some shopping, explore a new nature walking trail, or check out a new city. Here’s a list of perfect day trips, road trips, and weekend getaways.

31 Best Day Trips from Columbus Ohio

• Newark (45 minutes from Columbus)
• Ohio Caverns (1 hour from Columbus)
• Yellow Springs (1 hour from Columbus)
• Mansfield (1 hour from Columbus)
• Malabar Farm State Park (1 hour from Columbus)
• Cedar Bog Nature Preserve (1 hour from Columbus)
• Hocking Hills State Park (1 hour from Columbus)
• John Glenn Astronomy Park (1 hour from Columbus)
• Kings Island Amusement Park (1.25 hours from Columbus)
• The Wilds (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Miamisburg Mound (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Loveland Castle & Museum (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Salt Fork State Park (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum (1.75 hours from Columbus)
• Cincinnati (1.75 hours from Columbus)
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park (2 hours from Columbus)
• Pro Football Hall of Fame (2 hours from Columbus)
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Chagrin Falls (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Cleveland (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Cedar Point Amusement Park (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Lake Erie Shores & Islands (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Newport Aquarium (1.75 hours from Columbus)
• Fort Wayne (2.75 hours from Columbus)
• Indianapolis (2.75 hours from Columbus)
• Ann Arbor (3 hours from Columbus)
• Pittsburgh (3 hours from Columbus)
• Louisville (3.25 hours from Columbus)
• Coopers Rock State Forest (3.5 hours from Columbus)
• Dunbar (3.5 hours from Columbus)

Ohio Day Trips From Columbus

Check out attractions in newark ohio.

45-minute drive from Columbus

Located just 40 miles from Columbus, Newark is a great spot to go if you’re looking to get out of the city for the day. Fans of quirky landmarks can get an up-close-and-personal look at the world’s largest basket, which actually houses a company headquarters.

The Interesting Works Museum, which is dedicated to Newark’s industrial history, is worth visiting too. Here, you can learn about canal-building and glass blowing, as well as the history of the region. Keep an eye out for ancient earthworks, which were constructed by Native American civilizations in the area.

Also, consider going in early June. Not only will you be able to check out the sites, but you’ll be able to soak in the atmosphere of the Newark Strawberry Festival and nosh on strawberry shortcakes and other delicious dishes.

Experience the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty Ohio

1-hour drive from Columbus

If you’re looking to explore during your next day trip, head northwest to the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty. These Ohio caves are recognized as some of the most colorful in the United States because of their amazing collection of stalagmites, stalactites, and other formations.

If you’re going to go exploring, take a jacket and a camera. The caverns maintain a constant temperature of 54 degrees, and a jacket will keep you comfortable. With your camera, you can get amazing photos of the formations up close and be able to show them to family and friends.

Guided tours lasting about an hour are offered, so be prepared for some walking.

A Trip to Yellow Springs Ohio

There are many fun options for day trips from Columbus Ohio to Yellow Springs. In particular, Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm has excellent ice cream and a restaurant.

You can also visit the  Glen Helen Nature Preserve , which has a nice visitors center, and you can learn about the area as you walk through the pathways. There’s a grotto and some interesting wildlife.

In and around Yellow Springs, is Clifton Ohio with a covered bridge and Historic Clifton Mill . There are less than 100 mills still in existence today, and this is one of them.

What to See in Mansfield Ohio

If you’ve seen “Shawshank Redemption” (if you haven’t, come on it’s a classic), you’ll really enjoy Mansfield. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, this city is very interesting.

The Ohio State Reformatory is fascinating and intriguing. You’re allowed to wander around and freak yourself out with all the nooks, crannies, and peeling wallpaper in every room. The audio guides enrich your time and point out things that you would probably never notice.

For example, there’s an ‘x’ of light that’s made between four doorways that’s always there because of the symmetry of the building. Interesting, but most people don’t notice.

Beware that there’s no heat in the building. We went in February and nearly froze to death. However, we still loved it and can’t wait to visit again.

A Visit in Lucas Ohio

About 20 minutes from Mansfield, is another wonderful site worth visiting — Malabar Farm State Park . It features lots of events, like Wildflower hikes and Maple Syrup Festivals . The home was built by a man named Louis Bromfield in the 1940s and has all the original furnishings.

It features paintings from France, a grand piano, etc.

The home is interesting to explore, and the history is fascinating. Many celebrities visited the home, and in fact, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall got married here. The home was donated to be part of a state park and is very well-done.

The state park, which is also near Mohican State Park , features hiking trails and look-outs. The tallest point in the area, Mt. Jeez, is a great overlook to see the entire farm.

We visited Malabar Farm State Park in the summer and enjoyed some of the hiking trails we’d heard about in February.  We also visited the farm and saw some of the animals, and then ate at the Malabar Farm Restaurant , which uses local ingredients in their dishes.

Cedar Bog Nature Preserve in Urbana Ohio

Less than one hour from Columbus, you’ll find a 450-acre nature preserve. Thousands of years ago, glaciers carved through much of Ohio and left behind what are now protected wetlands.

Visitors will be pleased to learn that boardwalks go through the wetlands, so you won’t have to put on heavy-duty gear to go exploring. You can explore the preserve year-round, but visiting in springtime is something special when the lady slipper orchids bloom.

There’s a small fee for each entrant to help with the upkeep of the park. But it’s worth it considering all the rare plants and animals you’ll get to see. 

Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio

Almost every local knows about Hocking Hills State Park as a destination for day trips from Columbus Ohio . There aren’t many places to hike and see hills around Columbus (obviously), so this area is close enough it’s a hot place to visit.

However, it’s worth mentioning regardless. There are many trails and sites worth mentioning, including Old Man’s Cave .  

John Glenn Astronomy Park in Logan Ohio

There are lots of great day trips from Columbus Ohio, but a visit to John Glenn Astronomy Park makes for a great night trip. If you go on a clear night, you’ll have a great experience and be able to see the night sky during one of the many weekly programs that are held.

Visitors can plan their own evenings of fun too. It’s open at all times, and admission is free. So, if you’re into stars and astrology, grab your telescope, and make the drive.

Kings Island Amusement Park in Mason Ohio

1-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

Located just north of Cincinnati, this amusement park is a favorite spot for people of all ages to visit.

There are plenty of thrill rides to delight roller coaster fans, but there’s also Planet Snoopy and Soak City water park. A brand new coaster, the Orion, was added recently.

This is the perfect place if you’re looking to have some fun after a long week of work.

Explore Greater Dayton Ohio

When you think of Ohio, you likely think of Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland. But if you’re looking for a fun day trip, don’t discount the numerous Dayton Ohio things to do .

If you love planes and aviation, Dayton is a place you absolutely have to visit. Famed pioneers of flight Orville and Wilbur Wright are from Dayton, and the city is where they built their first aircraft.

Also, Dayton is home to the National Museum of the US Air Force , one of the world’s largest aviation museums. You can marvel at more than 350 aerospace vehicles, missiles, and exhibits that tell of the country’s aviation history. You can test out a flight simulator and check out a 3D theater too.

While you’re near Dayton, head to Lebanon Ohio and the Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Company. You can take aerial tours of either Dayton or Cincinnati , as well as see the wonders of the Ohio countryside.

A Trip to Cumberland Ohio

1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus

If you can’t go to Africa, go to The Wilds on day trips from Columbus Ohio! It has open-air safari rides that are $30 a person, and you get to see animals in a “more natural habitat.” (Obviously, they were stolen from their original habitat, but those of us who have a complex with visiting zoos will enjoy this option more.)

The safari takes you around so you can view animals grazing or watering. Animals we saw — zebras, camels, deer, giraffes, and other animals I can’t pronounce.

A Visit to the Miamisburg Mound in Ohio

If you’re looking for a quick getaway with the family for the day, head to Miamisburg Mound, where you’ll find spectacular man-made mounds. These are conical and easy to climb, so if you’re willing to climb up, it makes for a great family photo op.

Miamisburg Mound has a playground area for kids and a picnic area. So you can make a day of it without having to go too far.

Historic Loveland Castle & Museum in Loveland Ohio

You may think the best and most magnificent castles can only be found overseas in Europe. That’s where you’re wrong.

Just over an hour from Columbus, you’ll find Loveland Castle, which came to be when a WWI veteran was inspired to build a French-style castle of his own. Not only can you go exploring, but the castle offers many other services, such as weddings and Cub Scout sleepovers.

As you explore and marvel at the architecture — a mix of German, French, and English construction — you can learn all about Harry (the man who built the castle), play games and puzzles, and keep an eye out for ghosts that reportedly roam around.

If you like medieval swords and weapons, those are displayed throughout the castle as well.

Salt Fork State Park in Lore City Ohio

If you’re a fan of cryptids and cryptology, day trips from Columbus Ohio to explore Ohio’s famous Bigfoot territory are right up your alley. The park has been featured on Animal Planet and is reportedly full of the famous bipeds.

This is also where the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference is held. So grab your Bigfoot exploration gear, and prepare to go hunting for sasquatch.

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton Ohio

1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus

As you’ve already read, Ohio is home to some truly great historical sights. At this Hamilton museum, you can take a scenic drive in your car to see this more than 300-acre sculpture park. If you want something a little more adventurous, rent a golf cart for a closer look.

While you’re here, stop at the Ancient Sculpture Museum, where you can see sculptures from many civilizations, including the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians.

Explore Greater Cincinnati Ohio

There’s a lot to do in Cincinnati.

The second time we went to Cincinnati, we visited a few other places worth mentioning — such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center , which discussed the harrowing effects of slavery in the United States and current slavery that still exists in the world.

It’s one of those places that you want to be mentally prepared for. It’s thought-provoking and extremely intense to walk through. It features large printed slave ship sketches, a slave pen, etc.

Right outside of the Freedom Center is a waterfront area with a park and suspension bridge to walk on. The suspension bridge goes over the Ohio River and connects Covington Kentucky with Cincinnati.

We also visited the Cincinnati Art Museum , which is free and has a fantastic clothing exhibit and other amazing artwork! It was a beautiful museum to visit. Other places we visited there were Spring Grove Cemetery, which had some beautiful graves and other structures within the arboretum. 

Even though there was a wedding going on and we couldn’t explore the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption completely, we were able to see the nave inside and the beautiful building on the outside. I would like to go back when it’s not full of wedding guests to explore the rest of it.

After sightseeing, we ate dinner at a restaurant called Taft’s Ale House , which boasts a very decadent menu. It was in an old building and had great food, beer, and cocktails.  

Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Brecksville Ohio

2-hour drive from Columbus

Believe it or not, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only national park in the state of Ohio. You’ll find it north of Columbus and close to Cleveland. If you love nature, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty found along the Cuyahoga River, including caves, Brandywine Falls , and the Blue Hen waterfall.

If you’re up for hiking trails, there’s a historic canal that you can traverse on foot. That canal connects Ohio to the rest of the country by stretching to Lake Erie in the north.

Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton Ohio

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a wonderland for fans of the gridiron and day trips from Columbus Ohio. You can take a guided tour or tour the Hall of Fame at your leisure, soaking up the history and checking out the busts of some of the greatest players in the National Football League.

Much like the rock hall, you can see exhibits from some of the greatest players. Additionally, you can see some of the game’s greatest artifacts — including jerseys and balls from memorable games.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Ohio

2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

If you’re a fan of rock and roll, you’ll be as happy as a kid in a candy store with a visit to this Cleveland hallmark. You’ll find multiple floors packed with guitars, costumes, and other memorabilia from all your favorite rock stars — including the Who, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix.

Not only can you see iconic pieces of rock history, but there are plenty of chances for fans to interact. The Garage also allows fans to play instruments along with instructional videos.

A theater lets you see iconic moments in rock-and-roll history, and listening stations let you hear songs that shaped that history.

What to See in Chagrin Falls Ohio

Chagrin Falls is an adorable little suburb of Cleveland. The main area has an old-timey popcorn shop , Jeni’s Ice Cream, and the actual waterfall to view. The town is fun to walk around and explore.  

When we went, we had a Groupon for an adorable bed and breakfast called The Club at Hillbrook . The rooms are beautiful, spacious, and elegant. We ate dinner in the main restaurant, which had cute string lights and overlooked the large property.

You can also walk around the property and enjoy some of the interesting trails and nature nearby.

Enjoy Greater Cleveland Ohio

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Chagrin Falls shouldn’t be the only things you see while you’re in C-town. If the weather is cooperative, you can tour some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

If you’re itching to shop, the historic West Side Market offers some of the freshest food you’re likely to find anywhere. Also, check out the Cleveland Arcade, which is home to equally impressive stores and restaurants.

If you’re a fan of “A Christmas Story,” the house used in the movie can be found in the Tremont neighborhood and has been renovated to look exactly as it did in the movie. There are even more  Cleveland day trip  ideas to explore too.

Related: 30+ Amazing Things to Do in Canton Ohio | Top Attractions, Dining, Lodging, & More

Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky Ohio

If you like the roller coaster theme, you can travel a little further on day trips from Columbus Ohio to visit the Cedar Point Amusement Park, dubbed by some as the “roller coaster capital of the world.”

If you’re looking for extreme coasters, take a ride on the Magnum, Maverick, Millennium Force, and Raptor — just to name a few. If you’re not into coasters, there’s also a water park and resort-like amenities.

Lake Erie Shores & Islands in Sandusky Ohio

Aside from roller coasters, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Sandusky. If you’re up for exploring, visit Paddle and Climb and rent a kayak or paddleboard. Once you launch your vessel of choice, you can spend the day on the water.

Make no mistake, Lake Erie is beautiful all year round. If you go during the summer months, wear a hat and sunscreen, and drink plenty of fluids.

Related: 13 Best Indoor Things to Do in Sandusky Ohio

Day Trips From Columbus Outside of Ohio

Newport aquarium in newport kentucky.

Just across the river is Newport Kentucky, where I’ve visited the wonderful Newport Aquarium and waterfront area. If you love the sea, you’ll see plenty of animals — including a giant Pacific octopus, sharks, sea turtles, rays, and a giant grouper.

If you’re looking for a fun family day trip from Columbus, especially with young kids, this is the place to go. Your children’s eyes will light up in wonder as they see rare white alligators, penguins, and thousands of the most exotic creatures in the world.

There’s even a rope bridge that crosses over the top of a tank full of sharks. Also, check out one of the newest exhibits, Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels, where you can see a sunken ship and the creatures that live in and around it.

I’ve been to Cincinnati twice to see the aquarium, which is amazing. The aquarium is a great place to visit at any time of the year , but winter is a fun time to visit the turtles and alligators.

The sharks that swim overhead while you’re walking through is a wonderful feature.

Explore Fort Wayne Indiana

2-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus

You may be thinking to yourself, why would I plan day trips from Columbus Ohio to Fort Wayne? Well, the city has a lot to offer and is home to a lot of history. It has three different rivers, so you have ample opportunity to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard.

The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has consistently been named one of the nation’s best. And, you can visit the “Old Fort,” a reconstruction of Fort Wayne from 1815.

On top of that, Fort Wayne is home to a thriving cultural district, where you can visit the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, among other attractions.

A Visit to Indianapolis Indiana

During a day trip from Columbus to Indianapolis, you’ll see a beautiful skyline, a thriving sports scene, and lots of history.

If history is your thing, take a gander down Canal Street. You’ll find the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial and the Indiana State Museum on one end of the street. On the other end is a monument to the U.S.S. Indianapolis.

You can also check out the Indianapolis Zoo and the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you’re hungry, stop for a brew at Rathsekllar, and marvel at the Indy skyline. You can get some delicious German food there too.

Enjoy Ann Arbor Michigan

3-hour drive from Columbus

Columbus locals may roll their eyes at taking a trip to visit “That School Up North,” but beyond the Michigan-Ohio State football rivalry, Ann Arbor is a town worth checking out. It has been named one of the coolest small towns in America with plenty of shopping and more than 300 bars and restaurants.

If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Gallup Park, Ann Arbor’s most popular recreation area. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats. You can go on nature walks, or stop to have a family picnic. If you own a boat, there’s even a boat launch, so you can spend the day fishing or tubing.

Experience Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Believe it or not, the major Pittsburg metropolis isn’t too far from Columbus, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you love sports, head to PNC Park to catch a Pittsburgh Pirates game.

If you love museums, head to the Carnegie Museum of Art, where you can see awe-inspiring exhibitions that change annually. If you’re looking for great food, you can’t go wrong with a stuffed sandwich from Primanti Bros. or a succulent steak at Butcher in the Rye.

What to See in Louisville Kentucky

3-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

Even outside of the Buckeye State, there are awesome destinations for day trips from Columbus Ohio. If you like bourbon, Louisville is the place for you.

There are many bourbon distilleries around the city, and you can pick up a passbook and follow the trail. Also, you can do bourbon tastings, although you won’t see how it’s manufactured.

Some restaurants and bars offer tastings, and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is a fun option within the city.

In addition, the boardwalk is a nice place to walk around, and there are good views of the river. There are a lot of places to eat and bars with all sorts of live music. 

Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton Mills West Virginia

3-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus

I just visited Coopers Rock State Forest on our way back from Maryland.  The views are beautiful, and I didn’t get a chance to explore the entire place.

The main lookout point was very crowded with people, although I think it was the time of year and time of day we went. There was perfect October weather in the afternoon! I suspect if you aim to go here in the morning, it will be less crowded, and when you get to some of the main trails it won’t be so bad.

There’s a main overlook area, with pay-to-view finders, and then there are hiking trails you can take that will bring you off the main overlook to an underlook. There’s also a gift shop and a park. If it’s nice out, I think you can really make a full day of it.

Consider visiting other attractions on day trips from Columbus Ohio to West Virginia .

A Tasty Visit in Dunbar Pennsylvania

In Dunbar Pennsylvania, you can see some Frank Lloyd Wright homes and caverns, sample some berry pie, and view the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania. There are plenty of things to do on a day trip from Columbus to Western Pennsylvania , and it’s all less than four hours from Columbus!

More Tips for Taking Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

There are a lot of museums in Ohio that have some great history to share. They also do a lot of public programming.

If you’re a history-lover, you should check out the Ohio History Connection’s calendar of events to get ideas for what’s going on not only in Columbus but also in all the historic homes, museums, and outdoor sites managed by the Connection.

You may find a self-guided hike at Wahkeena Nature Preserve, the art of historical cooking at Fort Hill Earthworks , or a White House chef visit at the Hayes Presidential Center . Those would make great day trips from Columbus Ohio as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

What cities are an hour away from columbus ohio.

There are quite a few cities that sit just a short distance from Columbus. Within a one-hour drive, you can visit Urbana, Yellow Springs, Lexington, Fairborn, Bellefontaine, and Cedarville — just to name a few.

What cities are 3 hours from Columbus?

One of the best things about Columbus is its central location. Within a three-hour drive, you can explore Dayton, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh — not to mention lots of exciting, small, and unique towns in Ohio.

Which cities are within a 4 hours drive of Columbus Ohio?

As you’ve read, there are a lot of cities within a four-hour drive of Columbus. Depending on what you want to do, you can easily travel to Fort Wayne or Indianapolis in Indiana; Dayton, Cincinnati, and Cleveland in Ohio; and Ann Arbor in Michigan.

What is there to do in a one-day trip to Ohio?

A better question is “What isn’t there to do?” The only limit to what you can do in Ohio is your imagination. If you’re a state resident looking for day trips from Columbus Ohio, you can go in any direction and find something amazing.

If you love sports, head to Indianapolis or Pittsburgh. If you love art, drive to Pittsburgh or Fort Wayne. If you want great eats, pick a direction and head for the nearest big city.

What is there to do between Columbus and Cleveland?

This is a case of there just being too many options to choose from. If you’re planning road trips from Columbus Ohio up to Cleveland, there are a lot of stops you can make in just over two hours.

You can get in touch with nature at Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga National Park. Or, soak up some history at Thomas Edison’s birthplace in Milan or the Harding House Presidential Suite in Marion. You can also stop in Akron to visit the Akron Zoo.

Explore Amazing Things to Do on Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

No matter what you want to do or where you want to go, fun is only a short distance away from Columbus, Ohio. Whether you want to take a spontaneous day trip with the family or plan the perfect weekend getaway with friends, you can literally pick a direction and drive.

You can squeeze even more fun out of day trips from Columbus Ohio by making stops as you drive to a bigger city, such as Pittsburgh or Cleveland. So, grab your friends and family, ready the car keys, and hit the open road!

Looking for More Day Trips in Ohio?

Maybe you’re not starting your day trips in Ohio from Columbus… no worries. We’ve put together a few other Ohio day trip starting guides:

• Explore Ohio & Beyond: 20 Excellent Day Trips from Cleveland
• 21 Amazing Day Trips from Cincinnati in Ohio, Kentucky, & Indiana

Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

A lover of new experiences and fun road trips, Nina enjoys local and worldwide travel. She seeks authentic adventures ranging from wilderness camping to fine dining. Her passion is to share her experiences with others, so they can get the most out of their travels. Nina manages a local history museum in Columbus, Ohio, where she lives with her husband. Her travel motto comes from a woman she met locally who told her, "Always have a trip planned." She's the author of the book How to Be Your Own Travel Agent available on Amazon

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Lots of great ideas for our next day trip! You can travel 45 minutes North of Columbus to Marion and see the largest monument to a U.S. president outside of Washington DC, the historically accurate and beautifully restored home of President Warren G. Harding and the newly built presidential museum. A unique experience for sure!

You did not mention Put-in-Bay

No mention of Amish country in Holmes County, one hour and a half south east of Columbus. Enjoy the laid back rural Holmes County, we have the largest Amish population in Ohio. Plenty of shops, hotels, restaurants, Holmes county is visited by people from all over the country and the world. No better place to spend the weekend away from all the hustle and bustle.

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18 Totally Awesome Things to Do near me for Teens

H ey Moms, one of the most challenging parts of the long Summer break is finding things to do near me for teens, which they’ll find fun but are also friendly to your wallet too. If they’re old enough to get a Summer job that’s a great way to get them out of the house.

But you may have one or two teenagers at home and need to look for ideas for things to do near me for teens to do. 

So, here is a big list of fun activities and things to do in Summer, providing lots of fun for a Teenager around Dallas, Plano and Collin County.

More: Our Huge Guide to Things to Do with Teens

This post may contain Affiliate Links. Our Full Disclosure is available.

We recommend investing in a Pogo Pass – which offers access to over 20 venues around DFW (which could save you over $200!)

Save 50% on the Annual Pogo Pass Membership

This is one steal of a deal for families!

Each pass includes free admission to kids’ activities at over 20 destinations around Dallas/Fort Worth for only $49.99 per person.

Give the gift of experiences all over DFW!

Use code PLANOMOMS or just use our link below to buy.

If you have Questions, we’ve written a huge guide to the Pogo Pass to help you!

Best Indoor Things Near me for Teens

We are so lucky to have tons of attractions, including Escape Rooms, Movie Theaters, places to play Video Games, Shops, and Restaurants which are all inside.

It is helpful to stay indoors to escape the heat and still have a great time. There are also concert venues where teens can enjoy live music.

Teens love to go Bowling

Strike + Reel : 5902 N President George Bush Hwy, Garland, TX 75044

This is an entertainment complex featuring bowling, bumper cars, new-release movies & full-service restaurant .

Strikz : 8789 Lebanon Rd, Frisco, TX 75034

Main Event : 3941 Central Expy, Plano, TX 75023

Pinstack – Plano : 6205 Dallas Pkwy, Plano, TX 75024

What we love: when it comes to things to do near me for Teens, we love these multi entertainment venues which have different activities to choose from.

For active things to do near me for Teens, these are perfect options.

Canyons Climbing Gym : 7164 Technology Dr # 202, Frisco, TX 75033

Summit Climbing Yoga and Fitness – Plano: 525 Talbert Dr, Plano, TX 75093

Jumping and Trampolining

Jumpstreet : 6505 W Park Blvd #200, Plano, TX 75093

Urban Air Trampoline Park – McKinney : 3150 Hardin Blvd, McKinney, TX 75070

Altitude Trampoline Park – Richardson : 110 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX 75080

Airborne Trampoline Park – Lewisville : 1087 W Main St Suite #102, Lewisville, TX 75067

Arts and Crafts

There are several opportunities for teens to express their creative side:

Jewelry Class at NY6 Designs : 1023 S Greenville Ave, Allen, TX 75002

Pottery Class at Holman Pottery : 914 18th St, Plano, TX 75074

Pottery Painting at Paint My Pottery : 6121 W Park Blvd B127, Plano, TX 75093

Comedy Clubs

Backdoor Comedy : 940 E Belt Line Rd, Richardson, TX 75081

The Comedy Arena : 305 E Virginia St #104, McKinney, TX 75069

Play Video Games and enjoy Indoor Arcades

If they love the adrenaline rush of getting a high score or playing laser tag, these indoor venues are perfect for every rainy day or hot summer day.

Free Play Richardson : 1730 E Belt Line Rd, Richardson, TX 75081

Imagination VR : 2035 W McDermott Dr #470, Allen, TX 75013

Play Live Nation : 2601 Preston Rd, Frisco, TX 75034

Nickel Rama : 3046 Lavon Dr, Garland, TX 75040

VR Trip : 970 Watters Creek Blvd, Allen, TX 75013

Go to the Movies

We have some great Movie Theaters in the area – some including VR/AR experiences and restaurants for Teens to make a day out of their visit

Best things to Do for Teens near me: Outdoors

Another top priority should be to stay hydrated while having fun outdoors. 

Speaking of hydration, the choice of things to do near me for teens include plenty of water activities like boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, splash pads, pool, and waterpark options.

Teens love Water Parks

Both Indoor and Outdoor Water Parks are great places to burn that energy, and are always a hit for teenagers.

Some Water Parks have memberships for the Summer, or you can get in free using your Pogo Pass .

More: Hawaiian Falls Garland & The Colony: 9 Things to know before you go

Fun for Teens: Water Activities

Oak Point Park & Nature Reserve : 5901 Los Rios Blvd, Plano, TX 75074

Kayak McKinney : 100 E Louisiana St #5c, McKinney, TX 75069

Collin Park Marina : 2200 St Paul Rd, Wylie, TX 75098

Lake Lewisvill e: Rent a boat or enjoy some beach time at Little Elm Beach Club or Hidden Cove Park

More: Get ready for Big Adventure at a Hydrous Wake Park!

Go Ice and Roller Skating

Star center Community Ice Rink Plano : 4020 W Plano Pkwy, Plano, TX 75093

Allen Community Ice Rink : 200 E Stacy Rd #1350, Allen, TX 75002

Galleria Ice Skating Center : 13350 Dallas Pkwy #200, Dallas, TX 75240

Thunderbird Roller Rink: 3200 Thunderbird Ln, Plano, TX 75075

Carpenter Skate Park: R-1353-000-0010, 1, Plano, TX 75024

The Edge at Allen Station Skate Park: 201 St Mary Dr, Allen, TX 75002

The Colony Skate Park: 5151 N Colony Blvd, The Colony, TX 75056

Mckinney Skate Park: 7001 W Eldorado Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75070

Wylie Skate Park: 424 Westgate Way, Wylie, TX 75098

Other Fun things to do

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park : 5901 Los Rios Blvd, Plano, TX 75074

Get out and adventure in the open air

National Videogame Museum : 8004 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034

Top Golf – Colony: 3760 Blair Oaks Dr, The Colony, TX 75056

Andretti Indoor Karting: 5752 Grandscape Blvd #100, The Colony, TX 75056

More: Grandscape: 41 Adventurous Family Fun ideas for places to eat, shop and play!

More: Ride a roller coaster or five at our biggest Amusement Park in DFW. 15 Six Flags Over Texas Rides & Our Top Tips to enjoy them!

Enjoy one of our Summer Camps

YMCA Collin County Adventure Camps for Teens

Hydrous Wake Park : 280 E Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068

iDTech – Tech classes held online and at some prestigious campuses, please check online the nearest campus from you.

Online Adventure Camp – To those who are into technology, this is a great option.

What do you have planned? Have you got any ideas that we have missed?

Let us know in the comments!

• Things To Do / Fall Festivals & Activities / Guides for Kansas City / Spring Break Activities & Things to do / Travel & Family Vacations

24 Weekend Getaways, Road Trips & Day Trips from Kansas City

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If you’re looking for short road trips or fun day trips from Kansas City, there are great spots all over. We know you don’t want to drive too far…

But, there are easy weekend getaways nearby! Just a quick 3 (ish) hour road trip with the family. 

Whether you want to explore the outdoors, find mini vacation spots, or just find things to do in new cities, there are places for everyone to go. We hope your family enjoys these fun day trip ideas for kids! If you’re looking to stay closer to home, check out our Staycation Guide too!

Disclaimer : iFamilyKC is supported by its readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. THANK YOU!

We’re big fans of getting out of town for a few days…but where to go? How far can kids realistically ride in a car?  Kids can make it 3 or 4 hours, and then the questions begin and the movies get old. So we gathered the below list of destination ideas and resources for you!

Pro tips: keep the kids happy with their own travel snack boxes for the road. Grab some travel wipes to keep the messes at bay. Plus, any time you’re on a road trip, a dashcam is a great insurance policy.

Best Road Trips from Kansas City!

There are 24 fun road trips from Kansas City, all about a 3-hour drive. These vacation ideas are perfect for a weekend getaway near Kansas City:  

As you head out of town, you might consider having even a small simple security camera to keep an eye on things while you’re gone. Peace of mind, while you’re on your trip, is invaluable!

Day Trips from Kansas City

 If you’re looking for fun day trips from KC, or better yet a weekend adventure, this is for you! Get your family out of town… even if it’s just for a weekend trip! 

> Cave Springs

If you’re looking for a super close trip, Cave Springs is worth considering. Because it is located in Raytown, you can make it there in less than 30 minutes!

There is a small waterfall, hiking trails, and other fun things to explore – learn more now.

> Visit the Sunflowers

There are 14+ sunflower fields near KC that you can visit with your family. This is a short day trip from the metro, which is perfect if you have small children…

> Ha Ha Tonka State Park Day Trip

1491 State Road D, Camdenton, MO 65020

(2 hours, 41 minutes)

You can make this its own weekend getaway or stop by while you are in the Lake of the Ozarks area. Plus, the drive on the day trip from Kansas City is beautiful!

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located in the Lake of the Ozarks area. You can definitely make it one of the best weekend trips from Kansas City to the Ozarks.

Things to do at Haha Tonka:

There are lakes and trails, and you can head over to Branson for fun too! You can rent boats & jet skis at local marinas and swim till your hands turn pruney! If you like hiking or the outdoors in general, this state park is the place for you…  

One of the highlights is a turn-of-the-century castle built high on a bluff and more than 15 miles of walking trails. These trails lead to sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and of course the lake itself!

Just head down for the day and pack a lunch for a picnic or decide to make a camping trip out of it!

Where to Stay:

If you’re wanting to stay for the night, there are many choices that make a great overnight trip for families:

> Canoe, Float, or Paddle the Niangua River

Lebanon, MO & surrounding areas (many campsites & rentals)

(about 3 hours) (IF YOU WANT MORE FLOAT TRIP IDEAS WE’VE GOT THEM HERE)

Things to Do on the Niangua River:

Your family can canoe, kayak, float in inner tubes, or raft down the Niangua River! This fun road trip near Lake of the Ozarks is great if your family loves the outdoors or is looking for an adventure. 

There are many fun campgrounds, cabins, & hotels in the area, so it will definitely make a fun weekend trip. Explore the many campsites & rentals available like the Floating R or NRO , which has free camping options available. Big Bear River Resort offers adorable cabins, canoes, camping & great fishing spots too!

Food on the Niangua River:

Depending on where you start your float trip, you can stop at The Gravel Bar & Grill at the Sand Springs Resort .

This restaurant is right off the river, so you can walk from your canoe. It has basic American food, offering something for everyone in your family. They also offer lodging at the resort, so if you are looking for a place to stay and rent your canoes, this might be the spot!

This day trip location is a little further away, so you may want to stay overnight – especially if you spend all day paddling on the river! These are just one of many great options:

> Tanganyika Wildlife Park

1000 S. Hawkins Lane, Goddard, KS 67052

(3 hours, 8 minutes)

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is one of the most unique day trips from Kansas City. Not sure if it would be a day trip, since it is 3 hours, but could be a great weekend getaway in Kansas!  

It is a family-owned zoo with one of the largest animal collections in the state. There are over 40 exhibits, including several interactive stations for your kids to learn.

This is definitely a trip stop to add to your list.  

Tanganyika is the only place in the US where you can interact with ring-tail lemurs in their island habitat and feed Indian rhinos and pygmy hippos.

From most of the reviews that I read, it is a great place for younger kids —more animals in a smaller area to save their little legs (and grandparents too!)

There and back will be about 6 hours in total, so consider finding a place to stay for the night:

> Northwest Arkansas

Rogers, Fayetteville, Springdale

(3 hours, 15 minutes) If your family loves the outdoors, this is a great weekend getaway with your kids! 

Things to Do in NW Arkansas:

There are tons of great family things to do in Northwest Arkansas…not to mention the scenery! You can camp along the river, swim in the clear water, & have quality family time on your family’s vacation. Don’t forget to try canoeing while you are on the river!

There is the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks , Charlie & Willie George Park which features a fun spray park for the kids to cool off & TONS of great hiking. There are also unique things to do in NW Arkansas like, exploring the Dickson Street Bookshop or taking in a local museum.

You can visit the Museum of Native American History , Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , or the Museum of Discovery – a fantastic kids’ activity! Last but certainly not least, you have to check out the Walmart Museum.

There’s so much to see and do in Northwest AR. Visit:

Fayetteville, AR

Springdale, AR

Bentonville, AR

Best Food in NW Arkansas:

You also need to eat. So, be sure to check out Crepes Paulette – where you can watch your food be cooked – or The Farmer’s Table Cafe to try food created all by local Arkansas farmers. You can also take a little drive to try  Kyya Chocolate – unique chocolate that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

In Bentonville, AR try:

Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili :

1702 South Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712

The Buttered Biscuit

1403 SE MOBERLY LN,

BENTONVILLE AR, 72712

Smokin Joe’s Ribhouse

2504 E Central Ave

Bentonville, 72712

In Springdale, AR try:

Wagon Wheel Country Cafe

4080 N Thompson St.

In Rogers, AR try:

Monte Ne Chicken Inn

13843 E. Highway 94

Rogers, AR 72758

Big Orange Burgers, Salad, Shakes

2203 S Promenade Blvd Ste. 3100

In Fayetteville try:

Hugo’s

25 1/2 N Block Ave

Fayetteville, AR 72701

Penguin Ed’s

2 locations in Fayetteville!

Hammontree Grilled Cheese

326 N West Ave #8

Pro tip: passengers taking a break might enjoy a little travel pillow to snag a quick nap before their turn to drive again!

> Roaring River State Park

12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville, MO 65625

(3 hours, 17 minutes)

The Roaring River State Park is a great day trip from Kansas City when the weather is warm. You can also make it an overnight trip with camping if it’s a little further for you (Depending on what part of town you’re in) .

Things to Do in Roaring River:

There is so much nature to explore – it could fill your entire weekend! Trout fishing is obviously its biggest draw but there are great things to do and see for the whole family.  

The park is one of the premier trout fisheries in the nation and is stocked each night. There are also 7 trails that lead through the hills, including the Deer Leap trail that overlooks the fish hatchery. There are options to camp as well, including renting a cabin for the weekend.

> Eureka Springs, AR

(3 hours and 50 minutes)

Eureka Springs prides itself on its fabulous festivals. 

I personally love the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and have participated many times, but there are several more throughout the summer—just check to make sure they would be fun for the kids! It is the perfect place for a day or weekend trip from Kansas City!

Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR:

The city itself is nestled in the Arkansas hills and has great hiking & outdoor adventures.

Check out Lake Leatherwood for hiking, fishing, canoeing & more outdoor activities.

Downtown Eureka Springs is also a great stop; filled with shopping, restaurants & historic character. There are tons of eccentric shops and art galleries to explore too. You can always find good music in many areas of the city, especially during Blues Weekend.

Best Food in Eureka Springs:

Parkside Pretzel & Snack Bar has everything pretzel – pretzel dogs, pretzel churros…use your imagination! Their reviews are stellar & also feature some healthy options. Eureka Springs Funnel Cake Factory also needs to be on your list. If you’re looking for more dinner food, check out the Rockin’ Pig Saloon for yummy ribs & burgers, or Emilio’s Italian Home Cooking . This delicious Italian spot is located inside an old house, with a more upscale feel.   

Plan on staying the night in either The Crescent or The Basin Park Hotel . Both have their share of ghost stories, but their true draw is how they pull you into the vintage feel of the city. I have stayed at both but I don’t think got an ounce of sleep because the lights were always on and I was constantly checking under the bed!

At nearly 4 hours away from the city, you’ll want to stop for a good night’s rest before you head back to KC. Here are some of the closest options:

> Rent a Cabin Near Kansas City

(1-3 hours depending on the cabin)

There are many nice cabins near Kansas City, as well as in the city limits. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or a weekend getaway in the woods, these cabins are always a great idea!

Find large cabins for multiple families, or small cabin sites perfect for a small family trip.

> Branson

(3 hours or less)

Branson is one of the best road trips from Kansas City, because of the windy roads and beautiful scenery. So, start planning a fun weekend getaway.

Things to do in Branson, MO:

There are so many things to do in and around Branson it is mind-blowing; shopping at outlets , dining, amusement parks, go-karts, bumper cars & boats, duck rides, museums, Table Rock State Park has ALL the fun a lake can provide & everything in between!

You could spend a day or two at Silver Dollar City alone. You can grab a coupon book for the outlets too!

Be sure to check out shows like The SIX , Silver Dollar City , and the MASSIVE go-kart tracks! Your family is sure to find kids activities everyone will love.

With Table Rock Lake nearby so you can cool off too. Visit  Table Rock State Park , which has fantastic camping, fishing, boating & great swimming areas! The park is situated on one of the largest lakes in the country, so you are sure to get a beautiful view.  Find more things to do in Branson now!

Best Food in Branson, MO:

On your drive down, stop at Lambert’s , “home of the throwed rolls” in Ozark, MO. It is home cooking at its finest…while they throw rolls at you to eat! Cakes & Cream is one of our family’s favorites. It is a 50’s diner with more desserts than you could imagine. You can get many old classics there.

For the best shakes & homemade pies in town, stop at Billy Bob’s Dairyland . They feature tasty treats as well as yummy burgers & other diner food. (They also have amazing service…)

Branson offers tons of hotels and resorts , but there are also some gems through Airbnb that offer more privacy for families. There are beautifully redone farmhouses , modern cabins and log cabins available too!

> Amana Colonies Weekend Trip

622 46th Avenue Amana, IA 52203

(4 hours, 29 minutes) While this is longer than the 3-hour trips from Kansas City, the Amana Colonies have something for everyone. Plus, if you are looking for a weekend trip, going further away from home may be fun!

Things to Do at Amana Colonies:

The colonies host events each weekend, from a dog speed racers competition to woodworking festivals, so there is always something to do.

They celebrate a rich heritage in arts and crafts and take visitors away from the hustle and bustle of busy life…check it out for your next weekend trip out of KC.

In fact, The Wurst Festival , a celebration of all things sausage , was named the Best New Event of 2015 by the Iowa Tourism Commission.

There are many places to stay camping, bed, and breakfasts, and hotels nearby.

Best Food in Amana Colonies:

If you like German-American food, try the Ox Yoke Inn for fresh, handmade food. The restaurant dates back to the 1940s, so there are definitely delicious reasons it is still in business. Or, head to the Ronneburg Restaurant for another take on German cooking. Both restaurants are highly rated.   

There are surprisingly quite a few places to stay in and around the colonies. Check them out below:

> Topeka Day Trip

(45 minutes to an hour)

Even though Topeka is our state capital, most people haven’t explored it even though it is one of the best day trips from Kansas City! With Topeka less than an hour from most places in KC, it is a cheap getaway from Kansas City.

Things to do in Topeka, KS:

There are tons of fun things to do like the Topeka Zoo & Shawnee Lake . Check out our top 6 things to do with kids in Topeka . 

You can even climb to the TOP of the state capitol building , which we definitely recommend during your day trip. Tour reservations are not needed for groups of 10 or smaller. The spiral staircase winds right up the middle of the capitol dome, so don’t look down!

Best Food in Topeka, KS :

Bobo’s Diner is a Topeka classic – handmade onion rings, fries & burgers! They were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, so you know it’s delicious.

If Mexican is your fam’s jam, El Centenario makes homemade dishes every day. If the kiddos are all in on awesome grilled cheese sandwiches. and mom & dad like craft beer, The Wheel Barrel is a must. They’re located in the NOTO Arts District and are famous for their gourmet grilled cheese & selection of craft beers. You can’t go wrong with anything on your list. 

If you decide to make a weekend of it, there are some family-friendly spots to stay:

> Roadtrip to Des Moines, IA

(2.5 hours – 3 hours)

While Des Moines isn’t the most attractive city to visit, there are tons of things to do with kids in Des Moines. Plus, the drive is manageable for a weekend trip or getaway. 

Things to Do in Des Moines, IA :

Explore Adventureland Themepark , which includes an outdoor waterpark, a theme park, and indoor pools. Or, your family can check out the Science Center of Iowa , where learning is brought to life.

Don’t miss Iowa’s wildest adventure at  Blank Park Zoo  or find fun things to do outside like Gray’s Lake Park, the Living History Farms , or the Iowa State Fairgrounds (if you can make the trip during the Iowa State Fair ).

There’s also the State Capitol Building you can tour and the downtown Des Moines farmer’s market – rated the 2nd best farmer’s market in America

There are fun kids’ activities here that make learning fun! There are also areas with tons of room to play, like Pappajohn Sculpture Park or the Des Moines Botanical Gardens . The sculpture park is a great place for kids to play while enjoying the artwork…plus it’s free!

You can also enjoy some yummy ice cream at Black Cat Ice Cream , just across the street from the sculpture park.

> Wichita, Kansas Day Trip

(3 hours, 20 minutes)

Things to do in Wichita, KS:

Wichita is home to the Museum of World Treasures , which has an extensive World War II collection as well as shrunken heads, dinosaurs, ancient Egyptians, and everything in between.

The Exploration Place , a science education center, is also filled with fun kids’ activities and things to do. Your kids will explore a variety of hands-on activities & exhibits…think of it as the Science City of Wichita. Check out the Exploration Place calendar of events to see what’s happening while you are there.  

There is also the Sedgwick County Zoo , the Botanical Gardens of Wichita , and the Cowtown Museum , which has FREE admission on Sundays from noon to 5 pm. Also, be sure to visit the Keeper of the Plains statue !

Wichita also has its’ own amusement park, All-Star Adventures ! There are go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, slides, kiddie copters, a driving range, and other fun family activities. You can find other fun things to do with kids in Wichita easily too!

If you are looking for other fun things to do near Wichita, KS check out the Wildlife Park below!

Best Food in Wichita, KS:

If you’re looking for yummy places to eat be sure to check out Dempsey’s Biscuit Co or Piatto for delicious pizzas. Also, be sure to check out the world’s largest mural painted by a single artist – Horizontes.   For an old-fashioned loose-meat burger and house-made root beer stop into Nuway ! The kids will love it.

Depending on where you’re planning on exploring, there are great options all over the city:

> Meade, KS

(camping, dalton gang hideout & state park).

502 S Pearlette Street, Meade, Kansas

If you’re into history, this is a small town worth visiting. The Dalton Gang Hideout was the home of Eva Whipple, the sister of the Dalton Gang outlaw group. A hidden tunnel was discovered to hide the gang members.

It’s now considered a Kansas tourist attraction, where you can tour the home and the tunnel (reconstructed version). There is also a historical museum!

In addition to the history, there is a beautiful state park – Meade State Park . There is a 360-acre area filled with wildlife, as well as campsites and a lake.

You can camp or fish at the lake with your family to enjoy the great outdoors!

If you don’t want to tent camp, there are other places in the area to stay overnight:

> Omaha Road Trip

(2 hours, 40 minutes)

Omaha, Nebraska is even shorter than a 3-hour trip from Kansas City. Close enough that you can handle the drive but far enough away that it feels like a getaway…

Things to Do in Omaha, NE:

Take advantage of this fun & inexpensive city with these things to do with kids. There is the famous Henry Doorly Zoo , the Wildlife Safari Park , the Aerospace Museum, The Omaha Children’s Museum, the Rose Theater , & tons of free things to do throughout the year. Admission to the Joslyn Art Museum is always free!

There are also beautiful state parks like The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park , which features a suspended ropes course in the trees. There is also a pool, wave pool, splash park, horse riding, mini golf & disc golf, Venture Climb rock climbing & other unique activities. This park has more to do than almost any we have seen…

Best Food in Omaha:

You can also find tons of great restaurants like Mayne Street Market , Yoshitomo (if your fam likes sushi), Hurry Bird (for some creative, delicious breakfast and lunch burritos), or Johnny’s Cafe for delicious food near the old stockyards!

> St. Louis Road Trip

(3 to 3 and a half hours)

Depending on where you are road-tripping from in Kansas City, St. Louis isn’t that far. There are too many things to do with kids in St. Louis for just one day, so make a weekend road trip out of the day trip!

Things to Do in St. Louis:

You can explore the St. Louis Gateway Arch , World Bird Sanctuary , St. Louis Aquarium (the perfect place for kids), Magic House Children’s Museum , and many other kids’ activities. Take a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Gardens, which features a beautiful Japanese garden.

Or, check out Forest Park , which is larger than New York’s Central Park!

Check out our St. Louis Road Trip guide for more ideas of things to do in St. Louis. You could fill an entire weekend trip with these ideas!

Best Food in St. Louis:

If you check out the arch in the morning, be sure to try Chili Mac’s Diner !

Crown Candy is definitely worth a visit. This is a century-old Soda Fountain restaurant that is a St. Louis classic. You will feel like you stepped back in time to 1913 as soon as you step in their doors.

After you try their candy, ice cream & delicious food…it’s game over. Their hearty BLT is stacked to the brim (overflowing really…) with yummy bacon! There are also some delicious donuts at O’Fashion Donuts . Head to The Hill and enjoy some great Italian food at the many restaurants located there.

> Roadtrip to Joplin

(2 hours, 30 minutes)

Things to Do in Joplin, MO:

There are tons of fun things to do in Joplin during your day trip from KC! You can visit a giant waterfall – Grand Falls , George Washington Carver National Monumen t , or walk around downtown Joplin . The Sunshine Lamp District is even named after Joplin’s booming mining days, so you’ll be trendy while walking through history!

There are cute stores to shop, yummy restaurants to try, & even an indoor adventure playground for the kiddos. You can also visit the winery if it’s more of an adult-only road trip! 

Best Food in Joplin:

If BBQ is your thing, you can’t miss Big R’s BBQ & Pies . The locals love this spot for its great BBQ and you can finish off with one of their great pies, so you don’t want to skip this spot!

The Red Onion Cafe is located in a 100-year-old building & highly rated across the board. They serve American food in a relaxed setting – be sure to try the Smoked Chicken Dip! 

> Columbia, MO

(2 hours, 10 minutes)  

Things to Do in Columbia, MO:  

At MU, you can visit the Museum of Art & Archaeology or the Francis Quadrangle , with giant pillars towering overhead. Or, check out the Columbia Art League in downtown Columbia.  Besides visiting The University of Missouri, there are other fun things to do with kids like nature parks.

If your family likes the outdoors, there are many great parks & hiking trails like Rock Bridge Memorial State Park , Finger Lakes State Park , Stephens Lake Beach & Park , or Capen Park .

Finger Lakes State Park is probably the most unique thing you can do, with trails for ATVs, motorbiking, & four-wheelers. There is also a lake where you can go scuba diving, swimming, fishing & non-motorized boating. You can rent kayaks & canoes at the park, so all you have to bring is your family!  

Also visit the Shelter Gardens , a 5-acre botanical garden that is perfect to take a stroll…  

Best Food in Columbia, MO:  

If you’re looking for healthy options, try the Main Squeeze Natural Foods Cafe , which is rated very highly.  If you’re in the mood for good-old deliciousness, try Just Jeff’s Street Food , they have two locations.

They supposedly have the best chili dogs in all of Columbia. Addison’s is also a yummy place to try. Their nachos are our favorite!  You can’t go wrong by stopping for a pizza at Shakespeare’s Pizza, a Columbia tradition since 1973 with 3 locations.

> Eagles Bluff Conservation Area

Columbia, MO 65203

(2 hours, 6 minutes)

If you’re looking to get away from the city…this is the place for you. There are miles and miles of nature to be explored – the perfect place for a nature weekend getaway. Plus, the shorter drives make this one of our favorite day trips from Kansas City…  

There is the Katy Trail State Park , which provides trails to bike, hike, or even ride horses! You can also explore other regions of the conservation area with fishing, hiking trails, camping, bird watching & other fun outdoor activities. 

> Rock City

1051 Ivy Road Minneapolis, KS 67467

(2 hours, 49 minutes)

About 20 miles away from Salina, there are giant spherical rocks, formed when Kansas was under an ocean. There are over 200 rocks you can explore!   You have a couple of options.

1. Rock City is the larger of the 2 attractions, with close to 200 rock formations, but costs $3.

2. Mushroom Rock State Park , which is smaller, is free to the public. If your children love to run around or climb on things, this is a fun place to explore. Check out the website to see cool pictures of mushroom rocks !     

> Go on a Safari

124 Jungle Drive, Strafford, MO 65757

Looking for more unique day trips from Kansas City? This safari is just minutes away from Springfield, MO. (See our Springfield Guide below). How about a wildlife excursion…it’s a drive-thru animal safari in the middle of Missouri! There are over 450 animals for your family to come to visit. 

While there is not a ton to do, the Safari is definitely a unique experience that makes it worth the day trip drive from Kansas City. Make it a short getaway with an overnight stay for the family all together!

> Atchison, KS

Because Amelia Earhart was born in Atchison, you can learn about her at the Amelia Earhart Museum , at her birthplace. Also, visit the Atchison County Historical Society Museum located in the historic 1880 Santa Fe Depot. Check out the Atchison Rail Museum .

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, hang out at Jackson Park or cross the Missouri River and visit the Lewis & Clark State Park . 

Where to eat:

Grab a sandwich at one of these yummy stops: Mr. G’s , JW Boy’s BBQ , or Willie’s Sports Pub . You can’t go wrong.

> Springfield, MO

(2 hours 40 minutes)

Things to Do:

Shop the original, and one of the largest, Bass Pro Shops ! Explore the incredible caves of the Ozarks or go on a safari at The Wild Animal Safari in nearby Stafford, MO.

Find your favorite style of cashew chicken at one of these places on the official Cashew Chicken Trail.

Step back in time on Route 66 and grab a burger at Red’s Giant Hamburg or eat at a classic diner like Casper’s .

Use these Tips for Traveling with Kids to pass the time faster and make your road trip more enjoyable. There are fun car games & tips to keep your family safe. 

Looking for other fun places to stay near Kansas City?

• Lake Cabins Near KC
• Tent Glamping
• Treehouse Cabin Near Leavenworth
• Large Rentals for Multi-Families or Groups

If you can’t get out of KC, check out:

• Cave Springs in Raytown
• Our favorite playgrounds ( & have a picnic )
• Have a  Downtown KC Staycation Guide
• Explore the Best Things to Do in Kansas City with kids .

Pro tip: make your driver comfy for these family road trips. We love these beaded seat covers to keep you cool and comfortable.

What are some of your favorite places to visit near the metro? Let us know in the comments!

If you want to stay up to date, click below to join THE SCOOP! Get it delivered right to your inbox!

From our family to yours, iFamilyKC

Tags: Branson Gladstone Joplin Liberty Omaha Raytown Springdale Springfield

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17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Updated On: December 21, 2022

Visiting Russia? These are the top 17 things to do in Moscow to help you plan your trip.

If the western world has New York City , the first great metropolis on the eastern side of our planet is Moscow. A huge city with a complicated and impressive history, Moscow gets a bad rep over Russian politics – but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Capital to the largest country in the world, Moscow takes the grandeur of its standing very seriously.

This is a place where luxury is king and where opulence takes a front seat in every aspect of life. The buildings are grand and imposing, the parks are luscious and enormous, and even the subway stations look different in Moscow than anywhere else in the world.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Moscow, Russia

Walking around Moscow is also going through the tumultuous history of the 20th century, which had Russia as one of its main protagonists. There are fascinating remains of these times everywhere in the former Soviet capital, from the gorgeous Seven Sisters skyscrapers to the Orthodox cathedrals that were closed for the better part of a century.  Still, Moscow is also a completely modern city, with a vibrant social and party scene, incredible restaurants, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

After living in Russia’s capital as an ex-pat for four years, I got the privilege to experience not only the main attractions in Moscow but also the everyday life in this huge city and quickly found my sweat spots off the beaten tracks! So here is my list of my top 17 things to do in this exciting metropolis!

Attractions in Moscow

When visiting a famous city like this one, it’s a must to go through the most iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin & Surrounding Area

No place tells the story of Moscow’s power in the past century the way the Red Square does. This is where the biggest political meetings in the USSR occurred for many decades, and you can feel the power on each step.

Here, you’ll also find the historic museum at the entrance, showcasing the decades of history behind this iconic landmark. The Lenin Mausoleum, perhaps the most famous resting place in the world and home to the remains of the former communist leader, is also here.

On one side of the Red Square you’ll find the Kremlin, the fortified complex that now hosts the presidential residence. This is also home to the most iconic of all Moscovite landmarks: St. Basil’s Cathedral, a 16th-century marvel of colors. This is the best spot to take a selfie and show the world you’ve reached the Russian capital!

• Get your Kremlin Skip the Line Tickets and Kremlin tour here.
• Free cancellation up to 24-hours in advance of the tour.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

You can easily spend a couple of days just exploring the Moscovite city centre, and the Bolshoi Theatre should be your second stop. Walk past the Red Square and then head to the nearby Bolshoi Theatre, one of the oldest and most renowned houses of opera and ballet on Earth.

Visit for the impressive early 19th-century architecture, but if you’re seeing a ballet performance, make sure you book between 3 and 6 months in advance! I can strongly recommend this as it is a truly unique experience!

• Book a private 2-hour tour of the legendary Bolshoi Theatre.
• See the presidential box reserved for tzars, watch a rehearsal and skip the lines through a separate entrance.
• Free Cancellation up to 24-hours in advance.

3. Luxury Shopping at GUM and TSUM

While many might think of Moscow as the sad place with the long bread queues from the USSR days, it’s been quite the capitalist haven for a while.

If you’re up for some shopping, you’ll find one of the biggest luxury malls in town, TSUM, right behind the Bolshoi and GUM, at the red square. GUM is the most famous department store in town, where you’ll find luxury everywhere and all high-end brand. 

All in an imposing late 19th-century building with lots of history, worth a visit just for the design, its bridges and the glass roof even though you are not up for shopping!

4. Christ the Savior Cathedral

A newer addition to the gorgeous Moscovite cathedrals and my grandeur neighbor during my years in the city Don’t let the young age of this building fool you. After the perestroika in the early 90s, the newly revived Russian Orthodox Church received permission to build a cathedral on this site. They did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church.

The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes as tall as the skies in bright gold and gorgeous paintings and decor! Bring a shawl to cover your hair to adjust to the local tradition.

Head to the back of the cathedral and you will find one of the most photographed bridges in Moscow, the Patriarshiy Most. This is the perfect spot to get a good view and photo of the cathedral but also to see the Kreml and Gorky Park from a distance. Or why not just enjoy a moment watching the river and its boats!  

• Get around Moscow with ease using the Hop On Hop Off boat and Bus ticket. 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets available.

5. Gorky Park

Cross the river and head to Gorky Park along the Moscow river. The most famous green area in town, similar to New York ’s Central Park and the weekend hangout for locals. There are many beautiful parks in the city, but if you’re only visiting for a few days, this is the unmissable one! 

With fair attractions to entertain children, beautiful artificial lakes and gardens, and lots of outdoor activities, it’s a lovely place to relax. A place of rest in the middle of the metropolis. The area in front of the New Tretyakov Gallery & the Muzeon Park of Arts is actually one of my favorite oasis as a bit more quiet and peaceful than Gorky itself.

Why not spend some time in the museum to get a great tour of Russia’s history through art or just enjoy the art exhibition outside where local artists spend their weekends. 

6. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow is from the Moscow River. There are many stops for the boats and one is just next to Gorky Park. See the city from another perspective – and turn the ride into a romantic one by taking the evening cruise. Moscow is magic during the night.

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, take the Radisson Blu cruise – or the Erwin for a delicious seafood dinner. Both stop at Gorky or at the luxury Radisson Royal Hotel, set in one of the Seven Sister’s skyscrapers.

• We use Get Your Guide when booking city tours and they offer a River Sightseeing Cruise seeing all the main tourist attractions in Moscow

7. Metro Hopping

First inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow subway system is one of the oldest in the world, and certainly the most beautiful. Started under Stalinist times, each metro station is dedicated to grandeur and oozing personality.

Visiting the subway stops is an attraction in and of itself, and Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, Kropotkinskaya are my favorites. Those surrounding the Red Square are also mesmerizing – in general, these are kind of like underground palaces.

Most of the signs at the Moscow Metro now have Latin letters, so it’s very easy to get around!Unfortunately, the trains are not as beautiful and pleasant as the stations but still, this is a true Moscow experience.  Take a guided tour of the 9 most beautiful Metro Stations including the award-winning art deco station. See more details here.

8. Arbatskaya & Artsy Moscow

Novy Arbat Street is one of the most touristy areas in the city, with lots of shops and cafés directed at visitors. When you walk a little beyond, you’ll find a different part of town, where the hip scene thrives because so many artists live in the area. Just follow the small streets with fewer tourists!

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings hosts the main building of the Moscow State University, one of the most prestigious colleges in Russia – and the one with the best view.

Although this is a little outside the city centre, the sight from above is more than worth it, with the nearby fountains and park and then the whole of the city behind them.

10. Russian Market

If you love to visit markets wherever you go, Moscow has one of the most impressive ones in the world – the Izmailovsky. You can easily take the metro here and feel like you’ve been transported to another time.

This place was first built in the 16th century and retains the look of an old fairytale, with a lineup of colorful old castle. A lovely local experience beyond the confines of the bustling metropolis, where you can also try some delicious Russian barbecue.

Here, you’ll find beautiful souvenirs at great prices.

Off The Beaten Track Moscow

Once you’ve covered the most touristic spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer – and the places below will also be full of locals! Moscow is a city for hipsters, full of trendy and arty spots where you can literally feel the creativity oozing! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend my sweat spots below!

11. Patriarshiye Prudy

This is my favorite area in the entire city! While Moscow is generally a very noisy metropolis, Patriarch Ponds is far quieter, yet such a vibrant place. This is a very hip and trendy area making you think you are rather in Paris than in Moscow. Here the streets are narrow and full of chic eateries and clubs to see the local crowd.

A little bohemian and with an air of peace you won’t find anywhere in the city this is a great spot to spend an afternoon with your thoughts.

12. ArtPlay

Barely 15 minutes away from the city center you’ll find the artsiest Moscow district: ArtPlay. For decades, this block was a factory, but it was renovated to become a hub for the arts not too long ago.

Now, you’ll find it’s full of exhibitions, showrooms and art schools – and some of the most creative people in town. Writers, painters, and young hip people use ArtPlay as a rendezvous, and you can feel the creative energy here. The industrial design with modern interior decoration is also a feast for the eyes!

13. Shopping Local Designs

If you’re into design, both international and local, you’ll find lots of cute things at Patriarshiye Prudy. Department store Podium Market is also a great spot for shopping, as a department store everywhere in town, with lots of local and international brands. There’s one in the Four Seasons Hotel next to Red Square. My favorite Moscow mall is Tsvetnoy Central Market, a cool spot with great brands, lots of inspo, and even a cute café!

14. Moscow City

Like many other great capitals of the world, for the past few decades, Moscow has hosted a super modern area full of modern skyscrapers – Moscow City. With a completely different vibe than the rest of town, it’s like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressively tall glass buildings. Here, you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, such as Ruski and Sixty they are perfect spots for dining or enjoying a glass of wine with a view. There are also a relatively new shopping mall with lots of international brands called Affimall!

Wine, Dine, and Party in Moscow

Gone are the gloomy Moscow days – cold as it might be in the winter, Russia’s capital is a place for the senses. Great food and drinks abound – and the clubs are hot, too!

15. Where to Eat in Moscow

Moscow is a great metropolis where people love to dine out, and there are endless options for delicious food. The flavors are as diverse as you’d expect from a big city, with options of fine dining and little hipster eateries. 

• For traditional Russian flavors, I can’t recommend Café Pushkin, Dr. Zhivago, and Turnadot enough.
• When looking for international cuisines, Italian is always the way to go, and my local favorite is Probka.
• Fine dining is best done among the clouds at White Rabbit, with European flavors.
• As for the hip spots, you can spend a full day just eating around trendy places, from burgers to Asian fusion.

More Dining Options

• Patriarshiye Prudy offers a lot of small and classy spots with cool concepts, like breakfast restaurants I Love Cake and Fresh.
• For dinner, I love the NYC experience of Saxon & Parole, and the wonderful trendy Pins, with its delicious food and drinks.
• For delicious Asian food head to CutFish. 
• Lastly, there’s a recent revival of food markets in Moscow, offering lots of great choices of international flavors at affordable places.
• Don’t miss out the Vietnamese food stand at the Danilovsky market, and everything at Usachevsky!

16. Rooftopping

Big cities deserve to be seen from above, having a cocktail among the clouds. These are my recommendations for rooftop bars in Moscow.

• As I mentioned in the Moscow City section, Sixty & Ruski are two of my favorites, overlooking the newest part of town. 
• White Rabbit and its fine dining is also a lovely place for a fun dinner looking down on Moscow.
• O2, in the city center, has an advantage above all others: amazing views of the Red Square.
• Buono, above the Radisson Royal Hotel, might be the most romantic rooftop hotel in town, with its candlelit setting.
• Also on the Radisson stands the Mercedes. It’s a luxurious and posh experience with delicious cocktails.
• The Sky Lounge offers a peculiar experience, mixing an old Soviet building with futuristic additions.

17. Moscow by Night

Party the night away! The city is full of bars everywhere, but there are some areas where you’ll find more than others.

• Patriarshiye Prudy has lots of hip and small clubs and great bars, including the super fun private club Clava, which has a great vibe and people from all walks of life.
• For more hipster style bars, Red October is the place to go.
• Streak is a summer favorite, with a lovely terrace to catch a beautiful sunset – plus, their mozzarella bar is delicious.
• At night, Red October lights up with clubs everywhere, including the cool rooftop one Gipsy.
• Jagger is also a great spot during summer with a more relaxed vibe in garden setting. 
• For the traditional Russian luxury experience, go to SohoRooms, a whole other world including all-night go-go dancers.

There are so many things to do in Moscow at night and during the day, you definitely need several days to explore this exciting destination.

Moscow is a must-see city, a city like no other ! I hope you will enjoy this Russian metropolis as much as I did!

If you enjoyed this article on the , share it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

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Follow Linda on  Instagram  guides! For more inspiration, follow my journey also on Facebook and Pinterest and see Linda’s bio below for more at her website.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Linda Voltaire

Linda Voltaire is the owner of Travel with a Silver Lining, home to reviews of gorgeous boutique & design hotels, hip & trendy eateries as well as authentic and personal travel experiences beyond the crowd. She started blogging after a life-changing trip across South America. Follow Linda at TravelWithASilverLining / Facebook / Instagram /

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10 thoughts on “17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow”

These places look so awesome! Moscow is truly a beautiful city

Very good article, you have explained so nicely. Russia has always been a part of history and its good to know about much more about architecture and other things, wish i could see the inside of façade

Thanks for sharing such a nice article.You have very beautifully explained everything that one need for a trip to Moscow.

Nice article. Love the hidden gems and graffiti art, would love to visit Artplay. Thanks for a comprehensive guide to Moscow!

Moscow is a city where the past and the future live side by side. Here we can find everything from medieval fortresses and Soviet monoliths to glass skyscrapers and innovation centers.

Your article is good and meaningful .

Thanks for sharing about ArtPlay district, we didn’t know about it and it looks amazing 🙂 Hopefully there’ll be a second time in Moscow, we visited last May and really liked the city!

Wonderful stuff! I’ve been to Moscow, but not properly – it’s a long story lol!

Anyhoo, my next thing is to fly from Berlin to Moscow and then travel from there to Beijing via the Trans-Mongolian / Trans-Siberian train. Now, if only I could just find the time …!

I hear Moscow is very beautiful at night. I hope to get out there one day. A friend of mine went to St. Petersburg and had a great experience. Despite all the tension we see on the news with Russia and other Countries like the U.S. I wonder what the sentiment is with Russians and foreigners visiting their country for tourism. Especially Americans.

that looks like quite a beautiful place. 🙂

Moscow   Travel Guide

7 Best Things To Do in Moscow

Updated February 11, 2021

Art, museums and history reign supreme in Moscow, one of the most pristinely and magnificently preserved cities. This beautiful walking city is also recommended for couples. Here you can stroll through 15th-century cathedrals, explore Russian

• All Things To Do

Red Square Red Square free

One of the world's most famous public squares, the Red Square sits at the physical center of Moscow and is considered the symbolic center of all of Russia. Bluntly speaking, Red Square is a must-see in the city. Allot a decent amount of time to take in the views, capture them on your camera and to just soak in the atmosphere of the place.

You'll find the Red Square is bordered by the massive GUM shopping mall on the east, St. Basil's Cathedral on the south, the State Historical Museum on the north and Lenin's Mausoleum on the west.

Tretyakov Gallery Tretyakov Gallery

Many say the Tretyakov Gallery features the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. This museum is filled to the brim with masterpieces ranging from the 11th century to the 20th century. The gallery is actually comprised of two buildings, often referred to as the "Old Tretyakov" and the "New Tretyakov."

If you make time for only one museum in Moscow, make sure it's this one. Frommer's says, "This collection of masterpieces awes both newcomers to Russian art and connoisseurs." With works from Russian icons like Vrubel and Kadinsky dotted throughout the museum, you could easily find yourself whiling away the whole day here.

St. Basil's Cathedral St. Basil's Cathedral

St. Basil's Cathedral, also known by its much longer title as the Cathedral of Intercession of Theotokos on the Moat , is the most iconic landmark in Russia. It's located in Red Square , immediately recognizable by its unique bonfire-style design.

Built in the mid-16th century under the orders of Ivan the Terrible himself, (a popular legend says he had the architect blinded to prevent him from duplicating the beauty) St. Basil's Cathedral is most known for its vibrantly colored onion domes. Frommer's says the cathedral is "essentially a union of nine different churches and styles, and nine different chapels, beneath nine domes, each unique in size, form, and color."

Cathedral of Christ the Savior Cathedral of Christ the Savior free

The Cathedral of Christ the Savior is located along the bank of the Moscow River and only a few blocks away from the Kremlin . Tourists come to the cathedral for its impressive architecture and design, as well as for its equally impressive (and strange) history.

The cathedral was originally built to commemorate the Russian victory over Napoleon in 1812 and to honor the soldiers who gave their lives fighting him. Then in 1931, Stalin had the structure dynamited to make room for his Palace of the Soviets project -- an ambitious skyscraper (it would have been the tallest structure in the world) that never materialized. Instead, the site was transformed in 1958 into the Moscow Pool, one of the largest public swimming pools in the world. The pool closed in 1994 and the cathedral was rebuilt in its place in 1997.

Moscow Kremlin Moscow Kremlin

Often referred to simply as "The Kremlin," this fortress is located in the center of Moscow, off of the Red Square . It is the most well known of the Kremlins (Russian citadels) and serves as the official residence of the Russian President. The Kremlin encompasses four cathedrals, four palaces and a number of towers.

One of the major highlights here is the Armory Palace, one of the city's oldest museums. The Armory Palace was originally the royal Russian arsenal where weapons were produced and stored. It wasn't until the early 1800s that it was converted into a museum. Now, it showcases Western European, Asian and Russian weapons and armor, as well as several collections of work from goldsmiths, silversmiths and jewelers. Don't miss the Fabergé egg exhibit. 

Lenin's Mausoleum Lenin's Mausoleum free

Lenin's Mausoleum is located in Red Square and is probably one of the stranger tourist attractions you'll ever come across. It contains the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin, a disturbing site that has been on display almost every day since his death in 1924.

Lonely Planet says, "Whether for the creepiness value or an interest in mummification, the granite tomb of Lenin is a must-see, especially since (if some people get their way) the former leader may eventually end up beside his mum in St Petersburg." Apparently, the Bolsheviks leader made a specific request to be buried alongside his mother before he died.

Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts is located on Volkhonka Street across from the Cathedral of Christ the Savior . It houses the largest collection of European art in Moscow, and it was named in honor of one of Russia's premier poets, Alexander Pushkin.

You don't go here to read sonnets, though. Instead, you should look to find art spanning a wide range of eras and movements, from ancient Greece to the Renaissance to French Impressionism. Masterpieces from the likes of Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso and Van Gogh easily make this museum deserving of a visit.

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11 Wonderful Places for Snow Play Near Los Angeles 2024

By: Author MomsLA

Posted on Last updated: April 22, 2024

Updated for 2024

Want to play in the snow, Los Angeles? Within a few hour’s drive from town, you can show your LA kids what snow is all about this winter.

From tubing to sledding to making snowmen, and every “snowfun” thing in between, we’ve rounded up the best places for snow play near Los Angeles. This list will help you find snow mountains near you and show you where to find snow in California — at least in Southern California.

• MAP to Snow Near Me

Best Places for Snow Play in SoCal

San Bernardino Forest Locations including Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead

Alpine slide at magic mountain — big bear 800 wildrose ln., big bear lake, ca 92315 (909) 866-4626.

The Magic Mountain Recreation Area at Big Bear Lake is “home of the world-famous Alpine Slide,” described as “Southern California’s only authentic bobsled experience.”

The fun starts with a scenic chairlift providing incredible panoramic views of Big Bear Lake. Then, “riders navigate their own individually controlled sleds, each with Teflon runners and ball bearing wheels, down their choice of two quarter-mile long cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straightaways.” Check the website for prices and details.

Big Bear Mountain Resort Snow Summit and Bear Mountain 880 Summit Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 (844) 462-2327

This attraction is actually two resorts in one: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, which both offer skiing, snowboarding, and tons of snow play in the winter, not to mention hiking, biking, and golfing in the summer. New this year: Snow Valley is now part of Big Bear Mountain Resort! Described as the “region’s best beginner terrain” and boasts “Southern California’s only chairlift serviced sledding area.” Additionally, Snow Valley’s Learning Center offers lessons for the entire family — of all ages and ability levels. Check the website for prices and more details.

Big Bear Snow Play 42825 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 (909) 585-0075

Big Bear Snow Play offers the longest runs in Southern California. The runs are “serviced by a Magic Carpet uphill lift that eliminates the tiring uphill struggle through snow. Lift-assisted inner tubing lets parents and children conserve their energy for the thrilling downhill twists and turns.” Check the website for hours and rates for this year’s winter season. 

Skypark at Santa’s Village 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385 (909) 744-9373

Want to see Santa ice skate? Apparently, he’s very good on the rink, according to social media, and you can find him there during the holidays, along with a ton of family fun — and snow.

Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park — Running Springs San Bernardino National Forest 34600 Hwy 18, Running Springs, CA 92386 (866) 942-2824

Southern California’s largest and oldest snow tubing park offers snowy slopes for downhill rides on individual snow tubes that are specially designed with a belly strap and handles. You’ll find beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes here at this family-favorite spot located in the San Bernardino National Forest, and all at 6500 feet above sea level. In-season operating hours are offered seven days a week, though hours are subject to change due to weather and road conditions.

Places to stay near San Bernardino Forest, Big Bear, and Lake Arrowhead

• Hilton Garden Inn San Bernardino , 1755 S. Waterman Ave., San Bernardino, CA 92408
• Hot Tub! Cozy 2 bedroom Mountain/lake getaway! , 31634 Valley View Dr., Running Springs, CA 92382
• Cozy, Dog Friendly 2 BD near Big Bear & Lake Arrowhead , 31771 Christmas Tree Lane, Running Springs, CA 92382

Looking for other places to stay when you visit the snow mountains?

Try one of these VRBO rentals or Hotels via our Stay22 Map and Affiliate links.

Angeles National Forest Locations including Wrightwood and Mt. Baldy

Mount baldy 8401 mt. baldy rd., mt. baldy, ca 91759 (909) 982-0800.

Mt. Baldy is the closest snow play area to Los Angeles, and its snow-capped peak is visible throughout the entire LA area. Their tubing park offers packages including a round-trip scenic lift ride on the Sugar Pine chairlift and a 90-minute tubing session. Check the website for conditions, prices, and opening day information.

Yeti’s Snow Play at Mountain High 24510 CA-2, Wrightwood, CA 92397 (888) 754-7878

Make it a snow day at the Yeti’s Snow Play, open Thanksgiving through March at Mountain High Resorts. Slide down the tubing lanes, meet the Yeti & his friends, or take a scenic sky chair ride.  Mountain High is Southern California’s gateway to winter, just an hour and a half from downtown Los Angeles with no mountain driving. Open weekends & holidays during peak season.

Wrightwood Snow Play Areas (Info at Mountain Hardware ) 1390 Hwy. 2, Wrightwood, CA 92397

There are multiple places to play in the snow in the town of Wrightwood, some right off the edge of the highway. But, you’ll need to stop in at Mountain Hardware for a parking pass and map first. Have fun at Inspiration Point, Grassy Hollow Visitor Center, PeavineCampground, Apple Tree Campground, and the Arch Picnic Area. Plus, the store has plenty of winter gear in case you need supplies.

Where to stay near Wrightwood or Mount Baldy

• Grand Pine Cabins , 6045 Pine St., Wrightwood, CA 92397
• Mountain View Cabins , 1098 California 2, Wrightwood, CA 92397

Need to Gear Up? Visit our post with suggestions for Where to Buy Snow Gear for Kids in Los Angeles . 

Frazier park/grapevine area mount pinos campground area.

Turns out there are multiple places to find snow play right along the highways and roads in the Frazier Park area. But while that may sound like a wonderful thing (no need to buy tickets to a ski resort), it also means you may fight crowds.

Conditions there may require tire chains, and be aware that residents of the area need to use the roads too, so it helps to be courteous. One spot to try is Mount Pinos in the Los Padres National Forest.

Where to stay in the Frazier or Grapevine area

• Days Inn by Wyndham Lebec , 9000 Countryside Ct., Grapevine, CA 93243
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Frazier Park , 612 Wainright Ct., Lebec, CA 93243

Snow Mountains in Northern California

If you’re prepared for a long drive to the snow, Mammoth Mountain is a favorite destination for SoCal ski buffs and snow bunnies.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Woolly’s Tube Park 10001 Minaret Rd., Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546  800-626-6684

Mammoth offers skiing and snowboarding, as well as a play area for all ages. Woolly’s Tube Park is there for those who want to sled and make snowmen. Check the website for prices and more information. This year, Mammoth is scheduled to open on November 25 th , weather permitting.

Places to stay near Northern California for Snow Play

• Mammoth Mountain Inn , 10400 Minaret Rd., Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
• Quality Inn near Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort , 3537 Main St., Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Find Snow Near Me

Quick Links:

• Snow Play in the San Bernardino Forest Area (including Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead)
• Snow Play in the Angeles National Forest Area (including Wrightwood and Mt. Baldy)
• Snow Play in the Frazier Park/Grapevine Area
• Snow Play in Northern California
• Where to buy Snow Gear for Kids
• Best Cozy Cabins and Lodges to Stay Near the Snow
• Essential Winter Gear for Kids
• Best Ski and Snowboarding Lessons
• Best Things to do in Big Bear with Kids
• Family Ski Trip in Lake Tahoe

MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles

Disclaimer:  MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.

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25 Places to Visit in Moscow you Can’t Miss

25 Places to Visit in Moscow

Do you know what the most populous city in Europe is? Most people wouldn’t guess that it is actually Moscow. There are approximately 13 million people in the Moscow metro area, which amounts to approximately 1/10th of all Russians.

This former capitol of the Soviet Union is still the political and financial center of Russia. Just because it is a current business and government city, in no way means that it is boring and not worth a visit. Assuming the political tensions get solved, Moscow is a fascinating city you need to visit.

While lots of people can’t explain the nuances of Russian architecture, most can spot and appreciate it immediately. One of the best ways to see the historic sites is by taking a boat tour down the Moskva River that meanders through the city.

Overall, navigating the city isn’t difficult as there is phenomenal and cheap public transportation (roughly 30 rubles/35 cents per ride). You can also use a cheap Uber on the three ring roads that circle the city at various distances from the center.

Still wondering why you should visit this historic masterpiece of a city? Read on to see the top 25 things you need to see in Moscow.

The House with Animals

This former church is famous for the terracotta reliefs of animals that adorn the front of the building. It is a favorite of locals, and famous around the world. It was built in approximately 1900.

Resurrection Gate or Iberian Gate and Chapel

The Resurrection Gate is now one of the most common ways to enter Red Square. This gate is also the only standing part of the wall that was the entrance to to Kitai-Gorod, or Moscow’s historic central business district.

Book your tour: Moscow Kremlin Armory Chamber Entrance Ticket

St. Basils Cathedral

Probably the most famous of the Red Square attractions is St. Basil’s Cathedral. I don’t know if the legend is true or not, but supposedly Tsar Ivan IV poked the eyes of the architect out after completing it so nothing as pretty could be made again. What an awful boss!

Book your tour: Moscow: Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square Private Tour

Book your tour: St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

The State Historical Museum

If you are like me then you can’t help but find all the twists and turns of Russian history fascinating. The State Historical Museum at Red Square is a fantastic place to learn and study the Russian Relics.

Book your tour: Kremlin, Red Square, and Metro Tour with Pick-Up

Moscow River Cruise

The Moskva River cuts directly through the heart of Moscow. Want to see it all but rest your feet? One of the best things to do in Moscow at night is float along on a dinner cruise . The lights of the city are so beautiful. Of course, dinner in included.

Book your tour: Night lights Moscow Cruise (with Dinner option)

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

This is one of the most unique things to do in Moscow. If you know that many American video games paint the Russians as the bad guys, then it’s probably not surprising to learn that you can find an entirely different variety of video games in Russia. This isn’t a recent phenomenon; even historically the video games were different. If you are a video game buff then this stop is for you!

Main Church of the Armed Forces in Park Patriot near Kubinka

This church attempts to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as well as Russian military leader. Yes, it’s an awkward amalgamation. It caused quite a controversy when there were plans to create murals of Vladimir Putin and Joseph Stalin to go along with the ones of Jesus Christ (those plans were scrapped).

Bunker 42 (Cold War Museum)

Tunnel at Bunker-42, anti-nuclear underground facility built in 1956 as command post of strategic nuclear forces of Soviet Union.

Americans weren’t the only ones afraid during the Cold War! You can now discover the most secret and secure Bunker of the USSR, Bunker 42. Also known as the Cold War Museum . This former military communication center is now a museum. I recommend this tour that will take you on a private two hour visit of Bunker 42.

If you aren’t interested in a guided tour you can book your tickets in advance here.

Get your tickets: Bunker 42 Admission Ticket and Cold War Tour

Tank Excursion and Bazooka Shooting in Moscow

For real – you can book this tour and actually ride in a tank and shoot off military grade weapons. While that’s not my cup of tea, I know tons of guys would absolutely love to shoot a bazooka!

Book your tour here .

Dormition Cathedral

This is another Russian Orthodox cathedral that is located inside the Moscow Kremlin. It is another famous landmark of Moscow. The inside is decorated with ancient frescoes.

The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign”

This cathedral is located in Zaryadye Park (adjacent to Red Square). It is also on the Moskva River. The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign” previously was a monastery.

Komsomolskaya Metro station 

So many of the metro stations are breathtaking works of art. The idea was to create something beautiful that all the regular people could enjoy, or if you are more cynical you could say it was to attempt to show off how well they were doing.

Book your tour: Moscow: Small Group Metro Tour

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Stree t

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Street look super cool and futuristic, except like many communist projects didn’t actually work that well. They were supposed to be something new and different from the standard “Soviet Blocks.”

There are a number of problems with this design. Supposedly the acoustics are awful making the apartments perpetually noisy. The inner circle becomes a wind chamber even when it’s not that windy. My favorite weakness is that the trapezoid shape of apartments is hard to decorate and even harder to do maintenance on.

Izmailovo District and Izmailovo Kremlin

This area has to be one of the coolest places to visit in Moscow. It features a park in the middle of Moscow that is over 3x the size of New York City’s Central Park. The Kremlin in Izmailovo is a complex located in the Eastern Administrative District of Moscow that is known as the center of culture and entertainment. The wooden buildings are in Russian architecture of the XVI-XVII centuries (not original).

Izmailovo Kremlin on Google Maps .

Tretyakov Gallery

For those that appreciate fine art this is where you have to go. The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow Russia is the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. The museum previously hosted worldwide chess tournaments (I can’t help be think of the Queen’s Gambit).

Book your tickets in advance here. Tickets cost about $13 per person.

Kolomenskoe Estate

This reconstruction of a former royal estate is just a few miles southeast of the Moscow city center. Supposedly really detailed historical plans survived, so the reconstruction and current museum is incredibly authentic. It was completed in 2010.

Old buildings of Arbat

Arbat is an old street, and was previously the “nicest place to live in Moscow. Even though it fell into disrepair, it’s location, it’s historical buildings, and the fact that it is a pedestrian street are quickly making it a top place to live again.

The Melnikov House

Located on Arbat street, the Famous house of architect Melnikov designed this house (and Lenin’s sarcophagus). Melnikov designed it at a time when private ownership was outlawed, but got around this restriction by saying it was an experimental design to maximize space. Even though others weren’t built, he was able to keep it.

The New Maiden Convent

The New Maiden Convent, built was built to resemble a mini-Kremlin. It stands out to me because this “convent” was the place where women who were no longer welcome in the royal court were banished to.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in the Cosmopark

The Americans may have made it to the moon first, but the Russian cosmonauts were first in a number of other achievements. This gigantic obelisk pays homage to their accomplishments.

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

This royal estate was founded by Catherine the Great. She was Russia’s longest serving female leader. It is now a gorgeous museum!

Stalinist Skyscraper tour

This group of seven skyscrapers are called the Seven Sisters. They were all made in the Stalinist style, and one was previously the tallest building in Europe. If you want to tour them all while learning about their history book here .

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

It’s ironic that a country that was so anti-religion for so long has so many great churches. The Cathedral for Christ the Savior was made to thank Jesus for saving Russia. If you are interested in visiting this and so many other cathedrals in Moscow I recommend this tour that will take you to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior many other popular churches in Moscow.

Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This church on Red Square is reconstruction of what was previously there but ordered to be destroy by Joseph Stalin. It is a travesty thinking of all the beautiful things that Stalin destroyed to attempt to implement his vision.

Zaryade Park

Zaryadye Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Moscow. It is located directly next to the Kremlin, and offers truly amazing views. It is also famous for its “floating bridge” and the fact that there are so many unique features underneath it.

Church of Sign of Blessed Virgin in Dubrovitsy Znamenskaya

The Church of the Theotokos of the Sign (Dubrovitsy), or The Church of the Holy Sign of the Mother of God is located in a village amed Dubrovitsy about 20 miles south of Moscow. It is another Russian Orthodox church, but what makes this one unique is that we aren’t 100% sure who made it, or why is has a style that is completely different than other churches of the time.

The Church of Nicholas The Wonderworker

I love the unique style of the Russian Orthodox churches in Moscow. The golden onion domes stand out across the globe. This church dates back to 1657, though it has been partially destroyed a few times since then.

Moscow University

Moscow University is one of the Seven Sisters that are the “Stalin Skyscrapers.” Previously it was the tallest building in Europe. Though it has lost that title, it is still the tallest “educational building” in the world.

So what do you think? Next trip to Moscow?

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