Everyone needs a break sometimes. Whether that means just a breath of fresh air or a drive to somewhere new, “getting away from it all” is something everyone does. It doesn’t matter what you need it for, because these peaceful places are the perfect plan when you need a break. Who’s ready to explore something and find a new happy place?

  1. Santa Fe Trail wagon ruts — Dodge City

Deborah Lee Soltesz/Flickr These dents in the ground that you can faintly see aren’t just tire tracks, they’re marks left by wagon after wagon that had traveled through Dodge City along the Santa Fe Trail. Imagining yourself as one of the settlers coming through as you listen to the wind in the grass sounds like a perfect afternoon.

  1. Alcove Springs — Blue Rapids

Aaron Hall/Flickr Alcove Springs is a little trickling waterfall that only shows itself after a rain. You can even crawl up under the water for a unique photo, or sit nearby and listen to the water echoes around you.

  1. Faris Caves — Kanopolis

Steven Rodriquez/Flickr These twin caves were carved out to be used as temporary homes and later storage, but today they’re a feature along a hiking trail that you can still tour. Don’t forget the bug spray!

  1. Coronado Heights — Lindsborg

Franklin B Thompson/Flickr You might think this miniature castle isn’t too relaxing, but spending a while here with no one around is another great idea for a peaceful place, and maybe even a picnic.

  1. Horsethief Canyon at Kanopolis State Park — Marquette

Vincent Parsons/Flickr This beautiful area of Kansas really showcases the natural beauty that you find all over the place in our state. You’ll also find that there are a couple caves hiding out that are perfect for exploring.

  1. Dyck Arboretum of the Plains — Hesston

Dyck Arboretum of the Plains Facebook A beautiful arboretum like this one is another great choice for a day away from it all. Sit by the water and relax, or stroll under the trees and watch the wildlife around you. Either way, it’s a great day outdoors.

  1. Cross Timbers State Park — Toronto

Cross Timbers State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook Feel like walking along the shore of a lake lined with trees? We’ve got the perfect place for you. Skip stones or go fishing, and have that quiet day to yourself that you deserve.

  1. Elk City State Park

Tony Canada/Google This state park in Elk City is full of rock formations, scenic overlooks of the lake, and even a couple natural doorways made of stone. Every hike here is an adventure, but don’t forget your walking stick!

  1. The Flint Hills

Debbie Long/Flickr Speaking in general, you’ll find that everywhere within the Flint Hills is stunning. Whether you’re just driving out to a rural area or taking a hiking trail, you’ll have a relaxing day in the hills to look forward to.

  1. Wilson, Kansas

Duncan Rawlinson/Flickr Wilson is a quaint little town that is known as the Czech capital of Kansas. You’ll find that the change of scenery and the friendly residents are what makes this place so great.

  1. Teter Rock — Cassoday

Lane Pearman/Flickr Teter Rock is similar to Monument Rocks, but a piece of art set in place years ago, and a great place for watching the sunset.

If you need an even longer getaway, this camping bed and breakfast is the perfect place to start.

Deborah Lee Soltesz/Flickr

These dents in the ground that you can faintly see aren’t just tire tracks, they’re marks left by wagon after wagon that had traveled through Dodge City along the Santa Fe Trail. Imagining yourself as one of the settlers coming through as you listen to the wind in the grass sounds like a perfect afternoon.

Aaron Hall/Flickr

Alcove Springs is a little trickling waterfall that only shows itself after a rain. You can even crawl up under the water for a unique photo, or sit nearby and listen to the water echoes around you.

Steven Rodriquez/Flickr

These twin caves were carved out to be used as temporary homes and later storage, but today they’re a feature along a hiking trail that you can still tour. Don’t forget the bug spray!

Franklin B Thompson/Flickr

You might think this miniature castle isn’t too relaxing, but spending a while here with no one around is another great idea for a peaceful place, and maybe even a picnic.

Vincent Parsons/Flickr

This beautiful area of Kansas really showcases the natural beauty that you find all over the place in our state. You’ll also find that there are a couple caves hiding out that are perfect for exploring.

Dyck Arboretum of the Plains Facebook

A beautiful arboretum like this one is another great choice for a day away from it all. Sit by the water and relax, or stroll under the trees and watch the wildlife around you. Either way, it’s a great day outdoors.

Cross Timbers State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook

Feel like walking along the shore of a lake lined with trees? We’ve got the perfect place for you. Skip stones or go fishing, and have that quiet day to yourself that you deserve.

Tony Canada/Google

This state park in Elk City is full of rock formations, scenic overlooks of the lake, and even a couple natural doorways made of stone. Every hike here is an adventure, but don’t forget your walking stick!

Debbie Long/Flickr

Speaking in general, you’ll find that everywhere within the Flint Hills is stunning. Whether you’re just driving out to a rural area or taking a hiking trail, you’ll have a relaxing day in the hills to look forward to.

Duncan Rawlinson/Flickr

Wilson is a quaint little town that is known as the Czech capital of Kansas. You’ll find that the change of scenery and the friendly residents are what makes this place so great.

Lane Pearman/Flickr

Teter Rock is similar to Monument Rocks, but a piece of art set in place years ago, and a great place for watching the sunset.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.