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07 Jun 2026Updated last time

Kansas City to Tulsa Road Trip Itinerary

Kansas City to Tulsa Road Trip Itinerary Overview

This Kansas City to Tulsa road trip combines great food, prairie landscapes, frontier history, distinctive architecture, and memorable overnight stays. Begin in Kansas City, MO, where you can enjoy the city’s famous barbecue, jazz roots, and lively downtown energy before heading south. A fun early stop is Louisburg Cider Mill, KS, a seasonal favorite known for fresh cider, donuts, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Continue to Fort Scott National Historic Site, where preserved buildings and exhibits bring the story of the American frontier and Civil War-era history to life.

From there, make time for the wide-open beauty of Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, one of the best places in the region to experience native prairie scenery, wildlife, and peaceful walking trails. Cross into Oklahoma and stop in Bartlesville, a city that stands out for its oil heritage and the remarkable Price Tower, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. End your journey in Tulsa, OK, where art deco architecture, museums, music history, and excellent dining give the trip a vibrant finish. Altogether, this route offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and quirky local experiences perfect for a rewarding regional getaway.


Recommended Activities

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    Kansas City, MO

    Known for its vibrant arts scene, world-class barbecue, and rich jazz heritage, Kansas City offers a thrilling mix of culture, cuisine, and history.
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    Louisburg Cider Mill, KS

    A charming spot to experience traditional cider-making, enjoy freshly baked cider donuts, and explore a delightful pumpkin patch during fall.
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    Fort Scott National Historic Site, KS

    This historic site provides an immersive experience into the history of the American frontier, featuring restored buildings, reenactments, and educational exhibits.
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    Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, KS

    This preserve offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in North America, featuring scenic hikes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful wildflower blooms.
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    Bartlesville, OK

    Known for its unique architecture, including the Price Tower designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Bartlesville has a rich oil history and offers cultural attractions such as museums and performing arts centers.
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  • Tulsa boasts a dynamic cultural scene with renowned art deco architecture, vibrant arts districts, and famous attractions like the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Tulsa Zoo.
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Restaurants

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    Green Lady Lounge

    4.7
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    Green Lady Lounge

    A swanky jazz club in Kansas City that offers a unique dining experience with live jazz music and a cozy atmosphere.
    4.7
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    The Truck Stop

    1.7

    The Truck Stop

    Located in Louisburg, KS, this eclectic eatery serves delicious comfort food from a food truck in a fun and laid-back setting.
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    Sharky's Pub & Grub

    4.3
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    Sharky's Pub & Grub

    A quirky themed restaurant in Fort Scott, KS, known for its seafood and fun atmosphere with nautical décor.
    4.3
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    Murphy's Original Steak House

    4.6
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    Murphy's Original Steak House

    A local favorite in Bartlesville, OK, offering unique 'hot hamburger' dishes and a retro dining atmosphere.
    4.6
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    The Spudder

    4.5
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    The Spudder

    An oilfield-themed steakhouse in Tulsa, OK, featuring historic oil memorabilia and a distinctive menu with perfectly cooked steaks.
    4.5
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Hotels

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    21c Museum Hotel Kansas City

    4.2

    21c Museum Hotel Kansas City

    A historic hotel in Kansas City housed in a beautifully restored Gothic Revival building, offering luxury and modern amenities while preserving its rich history.
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    Circle S Ranch & Country Inn

    4.5

    Circle S Ranch & Country Inn

    A charming, rustic inn located in Lawrence, KS, offering themed rooms, a relaxing countryside atmosphere, and various outdoor activities.
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    Courtland Hotel and Spa

    4.8

    Courtland Hotel and Spa

    A unique boutique hotel in Fort Scott, KS, with vintage decor, personalized service, and a full-service spa for a relaxing retreat.
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    Inn at Price Tower

    4.4

    Inn at Price Tower

    Located in Bartlesville, OK, this hotel is part of a historic building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, offering a unique architectural experience along with luxury accommodations.
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    The Mayo Hotel

    4.2

    The Mayo Hotel

    A historic boutique hotel in Tulsa, OK, known for its luxurious rooms, stunning rooftop bar, and significant architectural design.
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Cornstock Concert on the Hill Music Festival

    Cornstock Concert on the Hill Music Festival

    Dylan Scott plus more entertainment TBAMain stage schedule, all times approximate, subject to change:5:00 p.m. - Clevermax6:30 p.m. - Pam Tillis8:00 p.m. - Stoney LaRue9:30 p.m. - Dylan ScottWelcome to the Cornstock Music Festival at Lake Garnett (No...
    Map IconNorth Lake Park in Garnett (33.97 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Sep 2024
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    El Recodo: Gran Jaripeo en Gardner

    El Recodo: Gran Jaripeo en Gardner

    🗓️ Domingo 30 de junio 2024🗺️ Johnson County Fair📍 136 E Washington ST Gardner, KS 66030🎤 EL RECODO🎤 LOS RECODITOS🎤 JARY FRANCO🎤 LOS CREYENTES🎤 CONJUNTO RELINCHO🎟️ ENTRADA GENERAL - $70.00🎟️ ENTRADA GENERAL (FASE 2) - $80.00Doors: 2:00 pmEd...
    Map IconJohnson County Fair in Gardner (73.95 mi)
    Calendar Icon30 Jun 2024
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    Amplify Lawrence: Camp Showcase

    Amplify Lawrence: Camp Showcase

    ALL AGES // 6:00 PM DOORS // 7:00 PM SHOW All Tickets are General Admission The Liberty Hall Box Office is CASH ONLY for Live Event ticket purchases. General Admission tickets are sold as GA STANDING tickets. GA balcony, floor or table seating may or...
    Map IconLiberty Hall in Lawrence (80.29 mi)
    Calendar Icon30 Jun 2024
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    The Wallflowers

    The Wallflowers

    The Wallflowers with special guest Heidi Lynne Gluck. Reserve Seated show. Doors 7pm / Show 8pm The Liberty Hall Box Office is CASH ONLY for Live Event ticket purchases. Event is in the Main Theater with entrance through the box office at 644 Massach...
    Map IconLiberty Hall in Lawrence (80.29 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Jul 2024
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    Rev. Kristin Michael Hayter

    Rev. Kristin Michael Hayter

    Reverend Kristin Michell Hayter. Reserved seated show. Doors 7pm / Show 8pm
    Map IconLiberty Hall in Lawrence (80.29 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Sep 2024
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    Allen Stone

    Allen Stone

    Allen Stone. Reserved Balcony, GA Floor. Doors 7pm / Show 8pm
    Map IconLiberty Hall in Lawrence (80.29 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Sep 2024
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    Descendents

    Descendents

    Descendents with, Buzzcocks and Surfbort. Doors 6:30pm / Show 7:30pm. The Liberty Hall Box Office is CASH ONLY. General Admission tickets are sold as GA STANDING tickets. GA balcony, floor or table seating may or may not be available depending on eve...
    Map IconLiberty Hall in Lawrence (80.29 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Sep 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

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