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Everyday Outdoor Family

A Southeast Kansas Day Trip Worth Taking

Published 2 months ago • 3 min read

Hey Friends,

Last time I shared Crawford County, I told you it was one of those underrated Kansas destinations that deserves an entire weekend.

Well, we went back. And this time, we tested it as a day trip from Kansas City.

And yep, it works as a day trip too! But here's how to do it:

Instead of trying to squeeze everything in, we focused on Frontenac, Pittsburg, and Crawford State Park, including several places that were completely new to us.

Our Day Trip to Crawford County:

☕ Downtown Frontenac

This was our first time exploring Frontenac, and it made such a great first stop because grabbing a coffee for me and letting my kids play was what we both needed after the drive down.

I grabbed coffee at McKay Street Coffeehouse and the kids and I explored the Frontenac Public Library. It has a cute kids’ area including a train-themed reading nook and toys for kids to play with.

We also walked through Heritage Hall Museum, a free little museum with old-time storefront facades and lots of local history. Plus, all three of these places are in one interconnected building.

🥪 Lunch at TOAST and on to Literary Cat Co.

This one was a repeat because I already knew I liked it! Everything tastes so fresh, and I especially appreciate that they have good gluten-free options.

We also had to go back to Literary Cat Co. because my kids made me promise I would take them back to get books and love on the cats.

🛝 The Jungle Gym Play Cafe

This was NEW for us, and my kids loved it. There are trampolines, a mini zip line, a climbing wall, play areas, and even a separate space for little ones. Plus, when we visited, the ice cream was only $2 and toppings were 25 cents, which meant I got to be the fun mom who said YES to toppings. 😂

🌳 Crawford State Park

We'd been here before, but I was happy to go back. There’s a lake, swimming beach, playgrounds, hiking, and plenty of room to slow down and get outside.

We got dinner from Jojo's Pizza in Girard and had a picnic dinner on the beach. Then the kids and I waded in the water and played on the playground.

🎢 Kiddieland Amusement Park

This might have been my favorite new discovery. It's a tiny retro amusement park with a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, train, airplanes, carousel, and more. Instead of paying a big admission price, you just buy tickets for the rides your kids want to do.

And fair warning: that little roller coaster is MUCH faster than it looks. 😂 (But it didn't make me nauseated so I will take that as a win!)

If You Have a Day:

Focus on Frontenac + Pittsburg and add Crawford State Park if you want some outdoor time.

If You Have a Weekend:

Add Big Brutus, Galena, Route 66, and some of the other wonderfully weird places we discovered on our first trip.

After visiting twice now, once for a weekend and once for a day trip, I can definitely say you need to go! We had a blast both times and my kids already asked when we will go back!

On the Blog

Abilene

If you’re looking for a great day trip from Kansas City or a weekend stop along I-70, then you need to plan a trip to Abilene!

Wichita

Families who enjoy destinations like Branson, Omaha, Tulsa, or Springfield will find a lot to love in Wichita.

Kansas Gems

If you love underrated places and hidden gems that disprove stereotypes, then your next trip needs to be to Kansas.

Kansas Map

Discover Kansas like never before with this custom Google Map featuring over 500 pins! I've got trails, parks, playgrounds, waterfalls, scenic drives, and hidden gems all pinned, organized and searchable by activity type.

Before You Go...

Want the full list of everything we've done in Crawford County and Southeast Kansas?

👉 Read my complete Southeast Kansas family travel guide here.

Happy adventuring!

Amy

Thank you!

Thank you so much for being here and supporting me! It means so much to me that you’re here. I hope that I can provide value for you and your family, so you’re inspired to get out and explore more! Happy adventuring!

-Amy

8450 NW Prairieview Road, #1397, Kansas City, MO 64154
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Everyday Outdoor Family

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