Family Fun and Fascinating Histories: Clay County, Missouri

Begin your exploration of Clay County in the historic town of Kearney. Visit the Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, the only 19th-century textile mill in the US with its original equipment. Once owned by Waltus L. Watkins and his family, this mill-turned-museum now features a visitor center and the Watkins’ well-preserved home. Take a self-guided tour for insight into the family’s lives and the milling industry at the time. While you’re there, visit the adjacent Watkins Mill State Park for a lovely stroll on the walking trails or a picturesque horseback ride.

From there, it’s a short drive to the birthplace of the infamous outlaw, Jesse James. Born in 1847 in a humble log cabin, this Missouri man went on to become a notorious figure in U.S. history, leading the James-Younger Gang in a series of bank and train robberies across the Midwest. Take the daily guided tour of the preserved home and museum, then head over to the Jesse James Bank Museum in Liberty for an even deeper dive into the outlaw’s life. This captivating museum is located in downtown Liberty’s historic town square, right where Jesse James and his gang pulled off the first successful daylight peacetime robbery in the USA. Sign up for a tour for a guided look at period-accurate furniture, photos and artifacts from the robbery, and the original green bank vault. Once you’re well acquainted with Kearney and Liberty’s most well-known historical figures, stop into Belvoir Winery and Inn. This Jacobethan Revival-style boutique hotel offers wine tastings, as well as charming hotel suites for you to get some rest.

After making the 30-minute drive to Excelsior Springs, downtown should be your first stop. This walkable historic district is filled with local shops and restaurants. Don’t miss Willow Spring Mercantile, where locally made Missouri wines fill the shelves, and Ventana Gourmet Grill, which serves up impeccable prime rib and cheesecake. At the heart of downtown Excelsior Springs, you’ll also find the Hall of Waters Visitor Center, a beautifully preserved 1930s-era health spa complete with its original art deco architecture and intricate tile work. Tour the historic spa rooms and explore the town’s past as a haven for wellness in the museum. From there, it’s just a short walk to the murals and green space of Carolyn Schutte Pocket Park.

Want to explore outside of downtown? Hop aboard an Excelsior Springs Wine Trail Trolley Tour! Starting in the heart of the city, these trolley tours take you to tastings at many of the local vineyards and hip bistros all around town. When you're ready to wind down, check into one of Excelsior Springs’ boutique lodging options. The Elms Hotel & Spa offers luxury spa treatments, while the Sunny Side Cottage is known for its cozy craftsman architecture.

Next up on your Clay County road trip: Kansas City. The biggest city in the region by far, this stop is filled with larger-than-life attractions. Begin at Worlds of Fun, an internationally themed amusement park with thrills for all ages. Kids will enjoy the rides and shows at Planet Snoopy, while adrenaline seekers will love the seven thrilling roller coasters, including the MAMBA coaster and its 62-meter drop. The park is open seasonally, so download the Worlds of Fun Mobile App for daily schedules and showtimes. Right next door to Worlds of Fun, you’ll find Oceans of Fun. This expansive water park certainly lives up to its name, bringing excitement for the whole family. Float along the peaceful lazy river or take a plunge down 100-meter waterslides.

Round out your Worlds of Fun experience with a stay at Worlds of Fun Village. These cottage and family cabin rentals are within walking distance of both the theme park and the water park. Discounted park admission is available with overnight stay combination packages.

From Worlds of Fun Village, take a short drive to North Kansas City. You won’t want to miss the Rabbit hOle, an immersive museum focused on bringing children’s literature to life. The three floors of whimsical hands-on exhibits are themed around beloved stories like “Alice in Wonderland,” “Goodnight Moon,” “Curious George,” and more.

Just around the corner, you’ll find the Iron District. This trendy plaza is made up of repurposed shipping containers and is filled with colorful boutique shops and local restaurants. The vendors at the Iron District rotate seasonally, so be sure to check their website for the current offerings.

Spend the rest of your day in friendly Gladstone. Community gathering place Linden Square offers seasonal events nearly all year-round. Summers bring drive-in movies and free concerts, while the holiday season sees festive Christmas decorations and twinkling lights all around. If you’re looking to get some fresh air, make the short five-minute drive to the peaceful Maple Woods Natural Area Trail nearby for an easy nature hike.

Your final stop on this Clay County road trip is Smithville. Start at the town’s 3,000-hectare namesake Smithville Lake for fishing, boating and paddleboarding opportunities. Boat rentals are available at Camp Branch Marina from May to October. The nature-filled fun doesn’t stop there! Nearby, Smithville Lake Nature Center features interpretive exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems, beautiful flower gardens and live animal encounters. It’s also the starting point for many gorgeous nature trails along the lakefront.

Once you’re ready to head back into town, visit the Main Street District, where lovely landscaping, local businesses, and seasonal community events await. If there’s just one stop you need to visit, it’s Nellie’s Sweet Shoppe, an old-timey candy shop serving up ice cream, homemade fudge and more treats. Before you know it, it’ll be time to head home. Fly out of Kansas City International Airport (KCI), just a 20-minute drive away.