Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need. In Clay County, just 20 minutes north of downtown Kansas City, you can find it without going far. Everyone knows Kansas City, but just north of the Missouri River, Clay County has been building renewed energy to draw people in with a mix of outdoor spaces, local dining, historic sites, and small-town charm, making it an ideal option for a nearby weekend getaway.
Adventure & Outdoors
Begin your visit with high-energy entertainment at Worlds of Fun, where roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions offer a full afternoon of activity. For a more contemplative experience, explore The Rabbit hOle, an immersive storytelling museum that brings the world of children’s literature to life through interactive exhibits and creative installations, appealing to readers, families, and anyone with a love of imaginative spaces.
Nature enthusiasts will find Smithville Lake an ideal retreat. As the region’s largest lake, it offers miles of wooded trails for walking and biking, along with calm waters that are ideal for paddling, fishing, or simply taking in the view. For those extending their stay, award-winning campgrounds offer an alternative to city accommodations, with mornings that begin lakeside.
When it’s time to refuel, North Kansas City’s original Chicken N Pickle combines a casual meal with the option to play a round of pickleball, making it both a dining destination and a recreational stop.
Local Flavor & Small-Town Charm
Each of Clay County’s small-town downtowns—in Liberty, Excelsior Springs, Kearney, and Smithville—offer a slightly different take on local charm. You’ll find boutique shopping, coffeehouses, and historic storefronts, all perfect for wandering and window shopping. Excelsior Springs even adds a touch of spa-town history to the mix, while Liberty offers a lively courthouse square anchored by local businesses.
For a more concentrated shopping experience, check out the Shops at Briarcliff or Metro North Crossing for retail, dining, and entertainment. T-Shotz, a high-tech driving range at Metro North, gives golfers of all skill levels a chance to practice their swing in climate-controlled bays, a fun group activity regardless of the weather.
Before you wrap up your trip, head to North Kansas City. This pocket-size district has become a local favorite for its craft breweries, the artisan spirits of Restless Spirits Distillery, the eclectic Iron District food and retail village made from shipping containers, and movie nights at Screenland Armour. It’s walkable, lively, and full of surprises.
A Step Back in Time
History is woven into the landscape here and offers plenty of reasons to pause. The Jesse James Birthplace Museum and Bank tells the story of one of America’s most infamous outlaws and will soon offer an enhanced online experience, with a fully rebuilt website slated to launch soon. With period buildings and costumed interpreters, Shoal Creek Living History Museum transports visitors to 19th-century Missouri. Agricultural history comes to life at the Atkins-Johnson Farm, one of the county’s oldest homesteads, as well as Watkins Woolen Mill, a National Historic Landmark showcasing 19th-century industry and craftsmanship.
New Ways to Explore
Clay County is also adding Selfie Stations at scenic locations across the county, perfect for snapping group shots. Each station includes a QR code to help map your route, and monthly photo contests add a little friendly competition to your trip. A new digital pass is also launching, making it easier than ever to plan an itinerary and check in as you explore.
With a mix of history, outdoor adventure, local flavor, and small-town charm—plus a community vibe that’s sparking new life north of the river—Clay County offers plenty to discover at whatever pace you choose, all without a long drive.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Visit Clay County and Missouri Department of Tourism. Begin planning your trip today at visitclaymo.com.
