Weekend Adventures Near Lee’s Summit: Fun Day Trips Within an Hour
Living in Lee’s Summit means never running out of things to do. Within an hour’s drive, you’ll find lush gardens, living-history sites, family-friendly nature escapes, and wineries that make for the perfect adult outing. Whether you’re new to town or a longtime local, these nearby adventures make weekends exciting, memorable, and easy to plan.
Powell Gardens: A Botanic Escape with Seasonal Magic
About 30 minutes southeast of Lee’s Summit, Powell Gardens spans nearly 1,000 acres of Midwest-inspired landscapes. Seasonal highlights include the colorful Festival of Butterflies in the summer and the sparkling Festival of Lights in the winter. Families love the kid-friendly trails, while photo-worthy art installations keep things fresh for repeat visits.
Missouri Town 1855: Step Back in Time
Just a short drive from downtown Lee’s Summit, Missouri Town 1855 offers a 30-acre living-history experience with 25 original structures, heirloom crops, heritage livestock, and interpreters in period dress. It’s a true immersion into mid-19th-century Missouri. To make a full day of it, pair the visit with a trip to Lake Jacomo inside Fleming Park, where boating and shoreline walks add outdoor fun.
Stonehaus Farms Winery: A Sip Close to Home
Located right in Lee’s Summit, Stonehaus Farms Winery is a family-owned spot where you can enjoy estate-made wines without leaving the city. Open most Wednesdays through Sundays, it’s known for relaxed tastings, patio seating, and special events like food-truck nights that bring an extra layer of community charm.
KC Wine Co: Wine, Sunflowers, and Weekend Fun
About 30 minutes west in Olathe, KC Wine Co. has a reputation for being playful and lively. Their seasonal sunflower festival is a local favorite, and weekend wine slushes keep the fun going. While tastings are for adults, family-friendly farm events nearby make this a versatile stop for all ages.
Belvoir Winery & Inn: Historic Charm with a Pour
Roughly 45 to 55 minutes north in Liberty, Belvoir Winery is set inside the historic Odd Fellows Home. It offers daily tastings, peaceful lawns, and striking architecture, making it ideal for couples’ outings or a relaxed day with friends. With an on-site inn, you can even extend your adventure into an overnight stay.
Burr Oak Woods Nature Center: Trails and Wildlife Close By
Only 15 to 20 minutes away in Blue Springs, Burr Oak Woods combines indoor discovery with outdoor adventure. The nature center features hands-on exhibits, while miles of wooded trails invite hiking, birdwatching, and fresh-air family time. It’s a perfect balance for kids and adults alike.
Fleming Park: Lakeside Adventures
Fleming Park is the crown jewel of nearby outdoor recreation, drawing more than a million visitors annually. It’s home to Lake Jacomo and Blue Springs Lake, offering sailing, fishing, water skiing, and beaches. With picnic shelters and wide-open green space, it’s a go-to for everything from quiet mornings to full-day family outings.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium: Wildlife Meets Wonder
Only 25 to 30 minutes from Lee’s Summit, the Kansas City Zoo recently expanded with a major aquarium complex. Families can spend the morning with elephants, giraffes, and penguins, then cool off inside the new aquatic galleries. Arrive early on weekends to beat the lines and make the most of the day.
Union Station & Science City: All-Day Discovery
Drive about 30 minutes north to Union Station in downtown Kansas City for a bundle of attractions under one roof. Science City is a standout, offering more than 300 interactive exhibits across 100,000 square feet. Add in planetarium shows and giant-screen movies, and it’s easy to spend the whole day here.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Iconic Culture and Free Admission
Roughly a 30 to 35 minute drive, the Nelson-Atkins Museum is one of Kansas City’s cultural gems. With free general admission, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore world-class collections. The outdoor sculpture park, famous for its giant shuttlecocks, doubles as the perfect picnic and photo spot.
Final Thought: Why It Matters for Lee’s Summit Living
When you live in Lee’s Summit, weekends become mini-adventures without the hassle of long drives or expensive getaways.
“From gardens and lakes to wineries and museums, these nearby destinations make everyday life more exciting and add to the overall value of calling Lee’s Summit home. For homebuyers, that means more than a great house—you’re also investing in a lifestyle that keeps giving back.” –Pam Bardy, Realtor
Trust the real estate professionals at KW Platinum Partners to guide you in finding and settling down in the home of your dreams in the many beautifully constructed, urban Lee’s Summit, MO, neighborhoods today.