Your Weston Day Trip: Quick Facts for 2025
Escape the city bustle and discover the historic charm and rolling vineyards of Weston, Missouri! Just a short drive from Kansas City, this delightful town offers a perfect blend of award-winning wineries, unique history, and scenic beauty. This guide has everything you need to plan the perfect Kansas City to Weston wine trail day trip in 2025, from a sample itinerary to budget-friendly tips.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from KC | Approx. 33 miles / 53 km |
| Drive Time | 35-45 minutes one-way |
| Estimated Cost | $50 – $150+ per person |
| Best Time to Visit | Fall (Sept-Oct) for foliage & festivals; Spring (Apr-May) for pleasant weather |
How to Get to the Weston Wine Trail from Kansas City
Getting to Weston is a breeze, but planning your transportation is key to a safe and enjoyable day. While driving yourself is the most popular choice, it’s crucial to travel responsibly, especially when wine tasting is on the agenda.
Option 1: Drive (The DIY Route)
The drive from Kansas City is quick and straightforward. Simply take I-29 N to MO-273 N, and you’ll arrive in the heart of Weston in about 35-45 minutes. This option gives you the ultimate flexibility to explore at your own pace, visit a state park, or linger over lunch.
IMPORTANT: If you plan on tasting wine, you absolutely must have a Designated Driver. The roads between wineries can be rural and winding. Safety first!
Option 2: Book a Wine Tour (The Smart & Safe Choice)
For groups or anyone who wants to fully indulge in the wine tasting experience, booking a tour is the best decision you can make. Companies like KC’s Barley Bus handle all the driving, create a curated itinerary, and often share local insights you’d otherwise miss. It’s the safest and most relaxing way to enjoy the Weston MO wineries.
Transportation Options at a Glance
| Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (w/ DD) | Flexibility, Budget | Control your own schedule, easy to bring purchases home | Requires a Designated Driver to stay sober |
| Wine Tour Shuttle | Groups, Wine Lovers | Safe, no driving worries, curated experience, fun atmosphere | Higher cost, fixed schedule, less flexibility |
| Rideshare | Emergencies Only | Door-to-door service to Weston | Extremely unreliable for return trips or travel between wineries |
Top Wineries & Attractions to Visit on Your Day Trip
Weston is more than just wine; it’s a journey back in time. Here are the must-visit stops that should be on every itinerary.
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Pirtle Winery
Housed in a beautiful former Lutheran Evangelical Church built in 1867, Pirtle Winery is an icon. You can’t miss its charming, vine-covered brick facade. Step inside to taste a wide variety of wines, including their fantastic fruit wines and meads (honey wine). Their peaceful outdoor patio and garden are the perfect places to relax with a glass.
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Weston Wine Company
Located right on Main Street, Weston Wine Company offers a modern and lively tasting room experience. It’s the perfect place to pop in while exploring the downtown shops. On a hot summer day, their famous wine slushies are a must-try! They also offer delicious food pairings like flatbreads, making it a great stop for a light bite.
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Riverwood Winery
Just a short drive from downtown, Riverwood Winery provides a spacious and relaxed countryside setting. It’s known for its fantastic weekend atmosphere, often featuring live music on its large patio. In addition to a great selection of wines, they also brew their own craft beer, offering something for everyone in your group.
4. Bonus Stop: McCormick Distilling Co.
History buffs, this one’s for you! Founded in 1856, McCormick is the oldest continuously operating distillery west of the Mississippi River. Tour the beautiful grounds, learn about the historic Holladay brand, and see how they craft their famous spirits. The guided tours are excellent but fill up fast, so reservations are essential.
5. Explore Historic Downtown Weston
Take time to wander down Main Street, where beautifully preserved pre-Civil War buildings house a treasure trove of antique shops, charming boutiques, and local artisans. Visit the Weston Tobacco Company to see cigars being hand-rolled, or satisfy your sweet tooth at the old-fashioned candy store. It’s one of the best things to do in Weston, Missouri!
Sample Itinerary: A Perfect Weston Wine Trail Day
Feel free to use this schedule as a starting point for your own perfect day trip from Kansas City. It balances wine, food, and exploration without feeling rushed.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Depart from Kansas City | Grab a coffee for the road and enjoy the easy 40-minute drive. |
| 11:00 AM | Arrive at Pirtle Winery | Enjoy your first tasting of the day. Take iconic photos of the vine-covered church. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch in Town | Head to O’Malley’s 1842 Pub for a unique dining experience in historic limestone cellars. |
| 2:00 PM | Explore Main Street | Walk off lunch by browsing the antique stores, boutiques, and historic sights. |
| 3:30 PM | Distillery Tour or 2nd Winery | Head to your pre-booked tour at McCormick or enjoy a tasting at Weston Wine Co. on Main St. |
| 5:00 PM | (Optional) Scenic Overlook | Take a quick drive through Weston Bend State Park for a beautiful view of the Missouri River. |
| 6:00 PM | Head back to KC or Stay for Dinner | Drive back to the city or enjoy an upscale dinner at The Vineyards Restaurant. |
Where to Eat in Weston
From historic pubs to classic diners, Weston has delicious options to fuel your adventure.
O’Malley’s 1842 Pub ($$)
An absolute must-visit for the incredible atmosphere. Located 60 feet underground in historic limestone brewery cellars, it serves hearty Irish-American pub fare. An experience you won’t forget!
Weston Cafe ($)
A local favorite and the perfect spot for a classic, budget-friendly American diner breakfast or lunch. Their homestyle cooking will make you feel right at home.
The Vineyards Restaurant ($$$)
For a special occasion or a more refined meal, this is the top choice for an upscale, fine-dining experience in a historic Weston home.
Winery Snacks
Don’t forget that most wineries offer delicious cheese, crackers, and charcuterie boards that are perfect for a light bite to pair with your wine tasting.
Insider Tips for Your Weston Day Trip
- Go on a Weekday: To avoid the biggest crowds, plan your trip for a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday. Saturdays can be very busy, especially in the fall.
- Book Ahead: For distillery tours at McCormick, special events, or large group tastings, always make reservations well in advance.
- Check the Calendar: Before you go, look up Weston’s event calendar online. Major festivals like Applefest (October) or Irish Fest (March) are amazing but bring huge crowds. Plan accordingly or avoid these weekends if you want a quieter visit.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on historic, sometimes uneven streets and potentially on gravel paths at wineries. Comfort is key!
- Bring a Cooler: If you plan to buy bottles of wine (especially chilled whites or rosés), a small cooler in your car is a pro move to keep them perfect on the drive home.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Details
Opening Hours
Most wineries and downtown shops are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Typical hours are Wednesday through Sunday, from around 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Hours can be shorter in the winter, so always check the specific websites before visiting.
Accessibility
As a historic town, accessibility can be a challenge. Many older buildings have steps and may not be fully ADA-compliant. Wineries may have gravel paths or uneven terrain. It is highly recommended to call attractions ahead of time to confirm accessibility details.
Parking
Free street parking is available downtown but can be competitive on busy weekends. All wineries and Weston Bend State Park have their own free parking lots.
What to Pack Checklist
- Valid Photo ID (required for tastings)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (for patio sipping!)
- A portable phone charger
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A cooler bag for wine purchases
- Camera or smartphone for all the photo ops!
Budget Breakdown: Estimated Costs Per Person for 2025
Your day trip can be as affordable or as luxurious as you make it. Here’s a sample breakdown to help you plan.
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $10 | $10 | $10 (or $80+ for a tour) |
| Tastings (2 wineries) | $25 | $30 | $40+ |
| Lunch | $15 (Cafe) | $25 (Pub) | $35+ |
| Shopping/Wine Bottles | $0 | $30 | $100+ |
| Total Estimated | ~$50 | ~$95 | ~$230+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far is the Weston wine trail from Kansas City?
Weston is incredibly close, only about 33 miles (a 35-45 minute drive) from downtown Kansas City, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding day trip destinations.
Can you walk between the wineries in Weston?
No, the wineries are spread out and not within easy walking distance of each other. You will need a car, a designated driver, or a tour shuttle to travel between Pirtle Winery, Riverwood Winery, and the main town area.
What is the best time of year to visit Weston, MO?
The most popular and scenic time is fall (September-October) for the beautiful foliage and popular events like Applefest. Spring (April-May) is also a fantastic choice for pleasant weather and blooming nature.
Are the Weston wineries kid-friendly?
While the primary activity is adult-focused, most wineries allow children on their patios and grounds. O’Malley’s Pub is also family-friendly. However, the overall experience is generally geared toward adults. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm individual policies.
TL;DR: Your Weston Day Trip Cheat Sheet
- The Drive: A quick 40-minute trip from KC via I-29 N.
- Top Spot: Don’t miss the iconic, vine-covered Pirtle Winery.
- Must-Do: Have lunch or a drink at the underground O’Malley’s 1842 Pub.
- Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday (Wed-Fri) to avoid the biggest crowds.
- The Golden Rule: DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE. Designate a driver or book a tour shuttle for a safe and stress-free day.
