The sun is shining, your EV is freshly washed and the day is ready to unfold. Why not take off on an EV road trip? With the extended ranges in today’s electric vehicles, it’s easier than ever to get from place to place. But just in case you need to plug in, these day trips take you near Clean Charge Network charging stations and other charging options. So, buckle your seatbelt and tackle the day!

Feed Your Curiosity Tour

Think science centers and museums are just for kids? Think again! Start your day at Science City at Union Station in downtown Kansas City, which just earned kudos as the top family-friendly attraction in the city from Visit KC. In addition to the award-winning science center, Union Station is home to a museum of illusions and an escape room, so there are no shortages of ways to exercise your brain. Take a short drive (or jump on the streetcar) to the City Market, where you can browse the market, visit the Steamboat Arabia Museum and indulge just about any culinary mood. Then head south to the eye-catching Museum at Prairiefire, which offers rotating exhibitions and a kid-focused discovery room.    

Charging Stations:

• Union Station, 30 West Pershing Road in Kansas City, MO — and many more within a mile radius
• City Market, 400 Grand Boulevard in Kansas City, MO
• Prairiefire Shopping Center, 5602 W 136^thStreet in Overland Park, KS

Capitol Climb and Dine Tour

Live like a legislator with a day trip to the capitol city of Topeka, Kansas. (And don’t forget to advocate for electric vehicles while you are there!) The Kansas Statehouse, home to the executive and legislative branches, is also a top (free) tourist attraction. Take a tour and climb nearly 300 steps from the fifth floor to the top of the 300-plus foot high dome. After you’ve worked up an appetite, hit one of downtown Topeka’s well-regarded restaurants. Grab a beer at Iron Rail Brewing, enjoy vintage arcade games along with your food at The Pennant, enjoy contemporary fine dining at The White Linenor check out the hip new The Weather Room. All four options are within steps of downtown charging stations.

Charging Stations:

• Westar Energy General Office, 818 S. Kansas Avenue in Topeka, KS
• Westar Energy Pocket Park, 800 S. Kansas Avenue in Topeka, KS

Brews and Vines Tour

You’ll need a designated driver for this day trip. (But it probably won’t be too hard to find one, as most people love the chance to get behind the wheel of an EV.) Fuel up with some caffeine and electricity at The Roasterie in Kansas City’s Brookside neighborhood, then stick around to check out the local shops. Grab lunch and head out for a memorable tour at Boulevard Brewing Company, and stock up for home with a variety of brews at the Bottle Shop. Then, set out for Platte City to visit the tasting room at Jowler Creek Winery, Missouri’s first green winery. The owners (EV drivers themselves) provide charging stations — and will even welcome you with a special treat when you show your EV key fob.   

Charging Stations:

• Jowler Creek Winery, 16905 Jowler Creek Road in Platte City, MO

A Picnic in Collegetown Tour

College towns make for excellent day trips, with a wealth of sporting and cultural events always on the calendar. Start your day by stopping by your local Hy-Vee grocery store to top up and grab picnic supplies, then head to the home of the University of Kansas. (Need more snacks? There are charging stations at the Lawrence Hy-Vee too.) Jayhawk sporting events are held throughout the year, though we can’t promise you basketball tickets. Check out the restaurants and shops lining Mass Street, from trendy options to hole-in-the-wall favorites. Looking for a nature break? Head out to the city’s largest park, South Park, for that picnic or a swim in nearby Clinton Lake.

Charging Stations:

• Hy-Vee, 3504 Clinton Parkway in Lawrence, KS — plus stations at most Hy-Vee stores in the area 
• Westar Energy Service Center at 746 E 27th Street in Lawrence, KS