A Weekend Itinerary: Things to Do Around Butler, MO & Return to Roots
A perfect weekend getaway often involves a blend of relaxation, adventure, and local charm, so be sure to start planning your trip to Butler. Tucked away in western Missouri, the area around Butler offers a surprising mix of outdoor beauty, small-town hospitality, and unique attractions. When you make Return to Roots your home base, you position yourself perfectly to experience it all, from serene nature trails to lively local festivals, truly nestled in the heart of the community.
Planning a trip shouldn't be stressful. This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your weekend. We’ve curated a mix of activities, dining spots, and scenic drives to create a memorable escape. Whether you're seeking quiet moments in nature or a taste of local culture, your ideal weekend starts here.
Your Home Base: Return to Roots
Before we dive into the plans, let’s talk about your launchpad for adventure. Return to Roots offers a peaceful sanctuary where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Nestled in nature, our comfortable glamping accommodations provide the perfect place to recharge. Enjoy a quiet morning coffee on your private deck, and end your evenings by a crackling campfire under the stars. Its central location makes it easy to venture out and discover everything the region has to to offer.
Your Perfect Weekend Itinerary
This schedule is a suggestion—feel free to mix and match activities based on your interests and energy levels. The goal is to explore, enjoy, and reconnect, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation in Butler.
Friday: Arrival and Settling In
Afternoon (4:00 PM): Check-in and Unwind
Arrive at Return to Roots, check into your glamping accommodation, and take a moment to breathe. Unpack your bags, explore your tent or yurt, and get acquainted with your natural surroundings. This is your time to transition from the hustle of your week to the calm of your retreat. Take a short walk around the property to stretch your legs after the drive.
Evening (6:30 PM): Casual Dinner in Butler
Head into Butler for a relaxed dinner. El Nopal Mexican Restaurant is a local favorite, known for its friendly service and classic Mexican-American dishes. It's a great way to fuel up with a satisfying, no-fuss meal before exploring Butler.
Night (8:30 PM): Campfire and Stargazing
Return to your site for a quintessential glamping experience. Start a fire, break out the s'mores supplies, and settle in for an evening of conversation and relaxation. Away from city lights, the night sky here is brilliant. Lean back and enjoy the show as countless stars appear.
Saturday: Local Exploration and Outdoor Adventure
Morning (9:00 AM): Coffee, Breakfast, and a Scenic Drive through the state park.
Enjoy a slow morning at your glamping site. Prepare a simple breakfast in your kitchenette and sip your coffee while listening to the sounds of nature, a perfect start to your visit to Butler. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive. The rural roads around Bates County are beautiful, especially the routes that wind through the Osage Plains. Take State Highway B east out of Butler for rolling hills and classic Midwestern scenery.
Mid-Morning (10:30 AM): Explore the Bates County Museum
Drive back into Butler and visit the Bates County Museum, also known as the "Museum of Pioneer History." Housed in a historic building, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's past, from its Native American history and Civil War significance to the rise of its agricultural roots. It’s a small but surprisingly rich collection of local heritage.
Lunch (12:30 PM): A Taste of Local Flavor
For lunch, grab a bite at The Dam Bar & Grill. This spot offers classic American pub fare in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a popular place for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a good burger and cold drink.
Afternoon (2:00 PM): Hiking at Wah'Kon-Tah Prairie
Time for some serious nature. Take a 30-minute drive south to the Wah'Kon-Tah Prairie Conservation Area. This vast expanse of unplowed tallgrass prairie is a stunning example of Missouri's original landscape. The hiking trails here are relatively flat and offer incredible panoramic views. It's a prime spot for birdwatching—look for prairie-chickens, meadowlarks, and various sparrows. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring place to spend an afternoon.
Evening (6:30 PM): A Special Dinner Experience
For a nicer dinner, consider At The Geyer Inn in historic Nevada, about a 30-minute drive away. This local institution is known for its steak and seafood in a unique, historic setting. It’s a great option for a more memorable Saturday night meal.
Night (9:00 PM): Relax and Recharge
Head back to Return to Roots for your final night. Whether you choose another campfire or simply relax in the comfort of your accommodation with a book, enjoy the peace and quiet before your departure tomorrow.
Sunday: A Gentle Morning and a Day-Trip Home
Morning (9:30 AM): Leisurely Breakfast and Pack-Up
Enjoy one last slow morning in nature. Make breakfast, pack your belongings, and take one final stroll around the property. Check-out is usually around 11:00 AM, leaving you plenty of time for one more adventure on your way home.
Afternoon (11:30 AM): Day Trip to Harrisonville or Clinton
Depending on which direction you're headed, consider a stop in a nearby town.
If heading north towards Kansas City: Stop in Harrisonville. Walk around the historic town square, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can grab lunch at a local cafe and browse the antique shops.
If heading east or south: Visit Clinton, known as the starting point of the famous Katy Trail. While you might not have time for a long bike ride, you can walk a portion of the trail and visit the historic downtown area.
Other Things to Do and See
Festivals: Check the local calendar before your trip. Butler and surrounding towns host various events throughout the year, including the Bates County Fair in summer and local heritage festivals in the fall.
Pop-APalooza Soda Pop & Candy Shop: A fun stop in Butler for kids and adults alike, this shop offers hundreds of varieties of craft sodas and old-fashioned candy.
Paterson's Memorial Water Park: If you’re visiting in the summer with family, this local water park in Butler is a great way to cool off on a hot afternoon.
Your Adventure Awaits
The Butler area offers a wonderful mix of activities that perfectly complement a stay at Return to Roots. You can fill your days with exploration and your nights with the peaceful sounds of nature. This itinerary provides a framework, but the best trips leave room for spontaneous discovery. So pack your bags, set your GPS for western Missouri, and get ready for a weekend of comfort, charm, and connection.
