As spring break approaches, many people start planning for their spring trips. However, not everyone wants to travel to exotic destinations or spend a lot of money on a week-long vacation. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for those who want to enjoy a break without breaking the bank. Here are three one-day trips you can take for less than $100.

Kansas City, Missouri, located just 65 miles east of Topeka is a great destination for a day trip. Known as the “City of Fountains,” Kansas City is home to over 200 fountains, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

Some of the must-visit places in Kansas City include the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Country Club Plaza and Kansas City Zoo.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is known for its impressive collection of over 35,000 works of art from around the world, spanning thousands of years. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photography and more, and it’s housed in a beautiful neoclassical building with stunning grounds.

The Country Club Plaza is a popular shopping and dining district in Kansas City. It is known for its Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains and sculptures, and it’s home to a wide range of boutiques, restaurants and other businesses.

Kansas City Zoo is home to over 1,700 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers and bears, as well as more exotic species like kangaroos and penguins. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

To get to Kansas City, you can take the Greyhound bus from Topeka. The roundtrip fare is around $50, leaving plenty of money for food and activities. If you’re on a tight budget, consider packing a picnic lunch and spending time in one of the city’s many parks.

Lawrence, Kansas, is another option for a day trip that’s a little closer. It is located just 25 miles east of Topeka. Lawrence is a vibrant college town with plenty of things to see and do.

Some of the highlights include the Spencer Museum of Art, the Watkins Museum of History and the Massachusetts Street shopping district.

Spencer Museum of Art, located on the University of Kansas campus, is known for its extensive collection of Asian art, European and American paintings, photography and more. With over 36,000 objects in its collection, the museum offers a diverse array of exhibitions and educational programs.

Watkins Museum of History is located in downtown Lawrence and focuses on the history of Douglas County, Kansas. Exhibits include artifacts from the region’s early days, as well as displays highlighting the area’s involvement in events such as the Civil War and the Bleeding Kansas conflict.

Massachusetts Street shopping district, one of the popular downtown Lawrence districts, is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon exploring unique stores, grabbing a bite to eat, or enjoying a night out on the town.

To get to Lawrence, you can drive or take the bus. If you’re driving, you’ll save money on transportation and have more flexibility in terms of where you go and what you do. Alternatively, you can take the bus (greyhound) from Topeka to Lawrence for just $10 – $15 roundtrip.

Manhattan, Kansas, home to Kansas State University, is located just 50 miles west of Topeka. Manhattan is a charming small town with plenty of restaurants, shops and outdoor activities.

Some of the top attractions in Manhattan include the Flint Hills Discovery Center, the Konza Prairie Biological Station and the Sunset Zoo.

Flint Hills Discovery Center, an interactive museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the Flint Hills region of Kansas. Visitors can explore exhibits, participate in hands-on activities and learn about the unique geology, ecology and culture of this area. The Discovery Center also hosts a variety of events, programs and tours throughout the year.

Konza Prairie Biological Station is a 8,600-acre research and education preserve located in the Flint Hills region of Kansas. The preserve is home to a diverse array of plants and animals, including several rare and endangered species. Visitors can explore the trails and enjoy the scenic beauty of the prairie, as well as learn about ongoing research and conservation efforts.

The Sunset Zoo is a small but well-regarded zoo located in Manhattan, Kansas. The zoo features a variety of exhibits showcasing animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, birds and reptiles. In addition to the animal exhibits, the Sunset Zoo also offers educational programs, special events, and a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

To get to Manhattan, you can drive or take the bus from Topeka. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy a fun and memorable spring break. Taking advantage of these three one-day trips, you can explore new places, learn something new and make lasting memories all without breaking the bank.

Edited by: Rakesh Swarnakar and LeSha’ Davis