Things to do in Kansas City

“MOM! I’m boooored….” – this is a common complaint in my house (complete with dragging feet and, of course, exaggerated facial expressions). And while I am ALL for letting kids be bored so they can problem solve and lean on their own creativity,… sometimes you need to just get everyone out of the house.

If you are looking for things to do in Kansas City with kids, I’ve got your back! Here are a few ideas, along with my “mom to mom” notes. Whether you are looking create fun memories, need KC “bucket list” ideas, or just straight up battle your cabin fever, here are some of the fun places we’ve found, or are on our list of future adventures:

*Of course, check beforehand for Covid protocol and schedules.

 

ESPECIALLY FOR KIDS:

“Science City” in Union Station – (30 West Pershing Road Kansas City, MO 64108) – This is a favorite of both my kids and I (the age range of my kids are 3 to 12). It is my top pick because 1. It’s fun AND educational which is an obvious win/win, and 2. While spacious, I’m not as nervous that my little ones will run off and disappear forever (oh the joys of parenting in this day and age – paranoia at its finest). I always want them in my sight of course, but the areas in Science City are closed off really well and the kids can’t easily run off into more of a public area until you’ve already left and are in the gift shop. Bonus? Stop by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory which is literally 10 feet to your right as you leave Science City (I’m not above using it as bribery by the way!). My favorite are the cookies and cream caramel apples. Cool fact: you get a percentage off if you are a Union Station Member, which I can’t recommend enough! Ours has paid for itself over and over again.

Crown Center – (2450 Grand Boulevard; Kansas City, MO 64108) – Owned by Hallmark, the sky is the limit here. You can take the kids to LEGOLAND Discovery Center, the SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, or Kaleidoscope (when it opens again, in the meantime they are putting together little craft kits for pick up so be sure to stop by). The open common area in front of that building has fountains, tables, and space for the kids to run around. It’s especially fun at Christmas by the way! There is also ice skating. Across the street from these attractions you’ll find Crown Center shopping and dining. Our favorite is Spin Pizza (their rosemary flatbread and red pepper & goat cheese dip? To die for.), but Fritz’s is always kid favorite. You can’t beat getting your meal delivered from a “Choo choo train” and what is cuter than their conductor hats? Nothing.

“Wonderscope” Children’s Museum of Kansas City – (433 E Red Bridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64131)

Get Air Trampoline Park – (18900 E Valley View Pkwy, Independence, MO 64055) – This is a treasure. It’s small enough that you can *mostly* see the kids wherever they are in the park, yet fun enough for them to spend hours (yes, they will complain when it’s time to leave). When you’re finished, head across the parking lot to Costco for the always-delicious and ever-affordable Very Berry Sundae. Mmmm….

Sky Zone Trampoline Park – (2801 NE McBaine Dr, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064, 6495 Quivira Rd, and Shawnee, KS 66203)

Main Event – (8081 NW Roanridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64151, 11950 N Kansas City Rd, Olathe, KS 66061, and 4600 S Cochise Ct, Independence, MO 64055)

GAGE Center: Kids Activity Campus – 1101 NW Jefferson St, Blue Springs, MO 64015

 

NATURE / PARKS / ORCHARDS / FARMS / OUTDOOR:

Kansas City Zoo – (6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132) – This Zoo is fantastic and the staff is so friendly. It is extensive and fun! Right next to the Zoo is the Starlight Theater and Swope Park, two other places worth checking out!

Powell Gardens – (1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061) – These gardens have beautifully curated areas, a long walking path, and themed exhibitions. Be sure to bring your stroller and water! They also have a fun splash area in the summer. Whether you bring bathing suits or not, I can pretty much guarantee your kids will hop in anyway (not that I’m speaking from experience of course)…

James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area – (12405 SE Ranson Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO 64082) – This wildlife area has expansive areas to explore. Bring a blanket, a baseball and glove, sandwiches from

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead – 13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221

Louisburg Cider Mill – 14730 KS-68, Louisburg, KS 66053

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens – (8909 W 179th St, Bucyrus, KS 66013) While you’re over there, go to Crumbl Cookies! (6780 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66223). They change cookie flavors each week and it is always a fun surprise to see the lineup.

Alldredge Orchards – (10455 State Hwy N, Platte City, MO 64079)

Meadowbrook Park – (9101 Nall Ave, Prairie Village, KS 66207) – This park has unique playground equipment and beautiful walking paths. In the winter there is the sledding hill of your dreams!

 

 

MUSEUMS:

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art – (4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111) – This free activity is great for all art lovers and would-be art lovers alike. The grounds are gorgeous and who doesn’t want to see a huge badminton birdie, anyway? (This will make sense after you go!). If you need a break from walking, head over to the Plaza around the corner and stop in Chuy’s (209 W 46th Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64112) and make sure you get chips and their creamy jalapeno dip. Fair warning: You won’t be able to stop thinking about it after you do…

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art – (4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111)

Museum at Prairiefire – (5801 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66223)

National WWI Museum and Memorial – (2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108)

 

 

MISCELLANEOUS:

Wonder Wonder – (11149 West 95th St, Mall, Overland Park, KS 66214) – This is part art exhibit, part photo op. I haven’t been there but it looks interesting and perhaps a fun visit for pre-teens especially.

Powell Observatory – (26500 Melrose St, Louisburg, KS 66053) – This is a facility with a powerful telescope. Only open after dark, and children welcome.

Zip KC – (12829 Loring Rd, Bonner Springs, KS 66012) – Zip lining!

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park – (7331 Oakwood Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132)