Robert Brogden's Garden City GMC

May 28, 2026
Beach ball floating in pool

Family-Friendly Summer Adventures Near Garden City & Dodge City, KS

Summer break is the perfect time to pack up the kids, hit the road, and make memories across southwest Kansas. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend outing or a full family road trip, there are plenty of fun things to do around Garden City, Dodge City, Liberal, Ulysses, Scott City, and surrounding communities.

At Robert Brogden’s Garden City GMC, we know summer travel is easier when you have a vehicle built for comfort, cargo space, and family-friendly technology. That’s why SUVs like the GMC Terrain, GMC Acadia, and GMC Yukon are popular choices for Kansas families on the go.


Rhinos at Lee Richardson Zoo in Finney County near Robert Brogden's Garden City GMC

Explore Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City

One of the top family attractions in southwest Kansas is Lee Richardson Zoo. With wide walking paths, animals from around the world, and free admission, it’s an easy and affordable summer activity for families with kids of all ages.

The GMC Acadia is the perfect partner for these day trips, offering a spacious interior that easily fits strollers, coolers, and snacks. And with available third-row seating, there’s always room for cousins or friends to join the summer fun.

Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City Kansas near Garden City GMC

Step Back in Time in Dodge City

Looking for an educational summer outing? Families from Garden City, Liberal, Cimarron, and Scott City often head to Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City for a taste of Wild West history. Live reenactments, old western storefronts, and interactive exhibits make this a favorite destination for kids during summer vacation.

For those longer drives between towns, the GMC Terrain offers impressive fuel efficiency along with advanced safety features that help give parents peace of mind on Kansas highways.

Garden Rapids at the Big Pool water park in Garden City Kansas

Cool Off at Garden Rapids at The Big Pool

Summer temperatures in Kansas can climb quickly, making water activities a must. The Big Pool has been a local favorite for generations and remains one of the largest outdoor swimming pools in the region. The updated complex features a 50-meter competition pool, a zero-depth entry pool, a lazy river, water slides, a splash pad, and an aquatic ninja course.

Loading up the family for a day of swimming is effortless in the GMC Acadia. With its flexible cargo room, you can easily pack towels, pool toys, folding chairs, and sports gear without anyone feeling cramped on the drive over.

Plan a Weekend Camping Trip

Southwest Kansas offers plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Areas near Historic Lake Scott State Park and local campgrounds around southwest Kansas are perfect for families wanting to unplug and spend time outdoors this summer.

When extra passenger space and towing capability matter, the GMC Yukon stands out. With available seating for up to eight passengers and substantial cargo capacity, the Yukon is designed for larger families and longer adventures across Kansas.

Art, Festivals & Community Events

Families can also spend the summer exploring the unique culture and creativity found across southwest Kansas. From colorful downtown murals like the Majestic Monarch Butterfly Mural in Garden City to public art installation, local museums, historic landmarks, and community exhibits, there are countless opportunities to discover something new close to home. It’s a great way to support local communities while creating memorable experiences with the kids.

Summer in southwest Kansas also brings local fairs, outdoor movie nights, baseball games, rodeos, art walks, and community festivals throughout:

  • Garden City
  • Dodge City
  • Liberal
  • Ulysses
  • Scott City
  • Holcomb
  • Emporium
  • Great Bend

Why Kansas Families Love GMC SUVs

Having a versatile SUV helps families stay ready for spontaneous plans all summer long. Features like available Wi-Fi connectivity, rear-seat entertainment, USB charging ports, and advanced driver assistance technologies make GMC SUVs especially convenient for busy parents.

Kansas drivers need vehicles that can handle long highway drives, changing weather, sports schedules, and summer vacations. GMC SUVs continue to be popular with families because they offer:

  • Comfortable seating and spacious interiors
  • Advanced safety and driver-assist technology
  • Strong towing capability
  • Flexible cargo storage
  • Available all-wheel drive
  • Modern infotainment systems

Whether you need the maneuverability of the GMC Terrain, the versatility of the GMC Acadia, or the full-size capability of the GMC Yukon, there’s a GMC SUV ready for your family’s summer plans.

Visit Robert Brogden’s Garden City GMC This Summer

If your family is preparing for road trips, summer sports, camping weekends, or everyday driving around southwest Kansas, stop by Robert Brogden’s Garden City GMC to explore the latest GMC SUV lineup.

Browse our inventory, schedule a test drive, and discover which GMC SUV is the right fit for your family adventures this summer.