Kansas City may be best known for its cityscape, but it is also situated in the Heartland of the United States. Gorgeous scenic routes neighbor the metro area, showcasing the beauty of the Midwest. If you're looking for driving routes with stunning views, you will love the scenic byways listed below!
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Where: Council Grove to Cassoday, KS.
Map: Click here!
Number of miles: 47.
Details: This byway weaves through a landscape that has remained unchanged throughout the centuries, offering a glimpse into the past. As you drive through the rolling Flint Hills, you will pass many of the world’s remaining tallgrass prairies. Be sure to stop by the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, where you can see bison, a historic ranch, and beautiful views of the prairies and wildflowers. Other points of interest along the byway include the Kaw Nation Heritage Park and the Kaw Mission State Historic Site and Museum.
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Glacial Hills Scenic Byway
Where: Fort Leavenworth to White Cloud, KS.
Map: Click here!
Number of miles: 63.
Details: This byway gets its name from the ancient glaciers that are said to have passed through the region, creating a landscape with picturesque hills and rocky valleys. As you drive along the byway, you will see fertile farmlands, clear streams, and the Missouri River bluffs. Historic points of interest include Fort Leavenworth, a Pony Express route, and the birthplace of Amelia Earhart.
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Native Stone Scenic Byway
Where: Dover to Manhattan, KS.
Map: Click here!
Number of miles: 75.
Details: Named for the natural limestone formations along the route, this byway features unique towns and fences built from limestone. Lush farmland blankets much of the landscape, and an abundance of wildflowers grow from late spring to fall. The route passes through the Mission Creek & Mill Creek valleys, as well as part of the Flint Hills. Be sure to stretch your legs at Echo Cliff Park, where you can hike up the cliff to admire the view.
Old Trails Road Scenic Byway
Where: Napoleon to Lexington, MO.
Map: Click here!
Number of miles: 15.
Details: Located on Missouri’s Route 224, this byway winds through orchards and vineyards, following the Missouri River. You can see the river bluffs, lush foliage, and rolling hills, as well as historic Lexington, Fort Osage, and a nearby marker for the Santa Fe Trail. If you would like to see more historic points of interest on your drive, click here for directions to neighboring routes.
BONUS - Cliff Drive State Scenic Byway
Where: Chestnut Trafficway & Cliff Drive, MO.
Map: Click here!
Number of miles: 4.
Details: This byway is currently off-limits to motor vehicles, but bikers and pedestrians are welcome. As Kansas City’s only scenic byway, Cliff Drive preserves a portion of the area’s natural beauty. Those who travel through the wooded path will see limestone bluffs, a waterfall, and North Terrace Lake. Other points of interest include Kessler Park, the Concourse, the Kansas City Museum, and more.
Do you know of any other beautiful routes near Kansas City? Please let us know in the comments below!