Kansas City, renowned for its barbecue, jazz heritage, and beautiful fountains, is also home to some fantastic driving routes that take you through scenic landscapes, rolling hills, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, manual driving enthusiasts will love the variety of terrain and smooth winding roads in the greater Kansas City area. From scenic parkways to rural escapes, these routes offer the perfect combination of beautiful views and an enjoyable driving experience.
1. Ward Parkway
Ward Parkway is one of Kansas City’s most scenic urban routes. It takes you past some of the city’s most beautiful and historic homes, along tree-lined streets, and past lush green parks. This road is perfect for manual drivers who enjoy a leisurely cruise through an urban landscape. The broad lanes and gradual curves make it an ideal route for shifting gears as you admire the beauty of the Country Club Plaza and nearby neighborhoods.
2. Cliff Drive Scenic Byway
Cliff Drive Scenic Byway, located in Kansas City’s Historic Northeast, offers a 4.5-mile drive through one of the city’s most unique landscapes. The route is surrounded by limestone cliffs, wooded areas, and scenic overlooks of the Missouri River. It’s a winding road perfect for manual drivers looking for a bit of adventure close to the city. The drive takes you through Kessler Park, providing access to hiking trails, making it a great place to stop and explore.
3. River Road (K-5 Highway)
Just north of Kansas City, the River Road (K-5 Highway) offers an excellent rural escape. This scenic drive follows the Missouri River and provides beautiful views of the water, farmland, and rolling hills. The winding nature of the road makes it a fun and engaging drive for manual car enthusiasts. Take a detour through Weston Bend State Park, where you can enjoy scenic overlooks of the river and the surrounding countryside.
4. Watkins Mill State Park Route
Located about 45 minutes from Kansas City, Watkins Mill State Park offers a peaceful and scenic drive through rural Missouri. The route around the park provides views of the lake, historic structures, and dense woodlands. The winding roads and serene setting make it perfect for manual drivers who enjoy navigating curves while taking in the scenery. Be sure to stop at the historic Watkins Woolen Mill, a National Historic Landmark.
5. Shawnee Mission Park Drive
Shawnee Mission Park, located just southwest of Kansas City, is home to a scenic loop road that takes you through the park’s diverse landscapes. The drive offers views of Shawnee Mission Lake, meadows, and forested areas. It’s a short but scenic route that’s perfect for manual drivers looking for a peaceful escape close to the city. The park’s wide-open spaces are perfect for practicing gear shifts and enjoying a smooth ride.
6. Route 45 – The Lewis and Clark Highway
The Lewis and Clark Highway (Route 45) is a scenic drive that begins just northwest of Kansas City and takes you along the Missouri River through beautiful, rolling countryside. This route is filled with winding roads, offering plenty of opportunities for manual drivers to enjoy the thrill of shifting gears. Along the way, you can stop at historic towns like Weston, known for its quaint shops and local wineries.
7. Route 224 along the Missouri River
Route 224, located east of Kansas City, offers a scenic drive along the Missouri River. This rural route winds through farmland and offers breathtaking views of the river. The curving roads and elevation changes make it an exciting drive for manual car lovers. As you journey along Route 224, you’ll pass by historic river towns and scenic lookouts, providing ample opportunities to stop and enjoy the view.
Conclusion
Kansas City and its surrounding areas provide a fantastic array of scenic routes that are perfect for manual driving enthusiasts. From urban parkways like Ward Parkway to rural escapes like Route 224, there’s something for every car lover. These drives not only offer breathtaking views but also give you the perfect opportunity to engage with your vehicle, shifting gears through winding roads and open stretches.
If you’re looking to enhance your manual driving skills while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Kansas City, book a lesson with Manual Driving Academy here. Our expert instructors will help you master the art of manual driving so you can fully appreciate these scenic routes.
