Kansas City, Missouri, is celebrated for its distinctive barbecue, vibrant jazz scene, and reputation as the “City of Fountains.” However, it also boasts a fantastic array of family-friendly attractions that are sure to entertain and educate your kids. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin. To help you out, here are our top recommendations for family activities in Kansas City.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Kansas City
Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City combines play with learning through engaging exhibits focused on art, science, and literature. With interactive displays like a farm, raceway, and veterinary clinic, it’s a perfect spot for children aged 8 and under.
If your kids are looking for an exhilarating experience, take them indoor skydiving at iFly Kansas City in Overland Park. This attraction welcomes children as young as 3 and is designed for everyone.
At Sea Life Kansas City, kids can explore 11 interactive exhibits and marvel at the underwater world. They can even touch sea stars and urchins at the rockpool or create their own sea creatures at Doodle Reef.
Science City, located in Union Station, offers a fun learning environment for the entire family. With a dinosaur dig, demonstration area, maker studio, test kitchen, and the impressive 4K Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, there’s plenty to discover.
Kaleidoscope, a creative haven sponsored by Hallmark, provides free art sessions that inspire creativity in kids. All materials are supplied, making it a fantastic opportunity for artistic expression.
The Coterie Theater has been delivering engaging performances for children for over 40 years. They also provide acting classes for kids from kindergarten through high school and offer a playwright’s club for teenagers.
Top Kid-Friendly Dining Spots in Kansas City
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, a beloved Kansas City institution since 1954, features three locations. Kids will be captivated as electric trains deliver their meals, which they order via a table-side phone.
Nick and Jake’s, with four locations around the city, offers a diverse kids menu categorized into “Little Leaguers” and “Big Leaguers.” Adults will appreciate the extensive selection of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails.
No visit to Kansas City is complete without indulging in some barbecue. Visit Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue, where meals for kids under 10 are priced at $6.99 and come with an entrée, side, and drink.
The Crayola Café in the Crown Center is a colorful dining experience where kids can choose from a variety of meals like hot dogs, grilled cheese, or chicken tenders, all served with fun sides.
Also located in the Crown Center, Chip’s Chocolate Factory offers over 200 delightful treats. Don’t miss the chance to schedule a tour to see how these sweet creations are made.
Best Family Accommodations in Kansas City
Great Wolf Lodge is not just a hotel; it’s a family destination featuring a large indoor and outdoor waterpark. You can purchase day passes or opt for one of the rustic suites to accommodate your family.
The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center offers family-friendly amenities, including adjoining rooms, 24-hour room service, and a dedicated picnic area. Their Kid’s Club gives you a local activity guide and a fun space for children to play.
Worlds of Fun Village provides a range of accommodations, including cottages and RV sites, along with a pool and hot tub. Guests can enjoy discounted entry to the Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun theme parks.
Outdoor Fun in Kansas City for Kids
A must-visit with kids is the Kansas City Zoo, a sprawling 202-acre sanctuary featuring thousands of animals. Kids aged 7 and older can participate in the Keeper for a Day program, while younger visitors can enjoy the endangered species carousel and the African sky safari.
Paradise Park is another fantastic location where families can engage in various activities such as batting cages, bumper cars, escape rooms, go-karts, and mini-golf.
Worlds of Fun amusement park offers thrilling rides for older kids while also providing over 20 attractions for younger children. Plus, admission includes access to the Oceans of Fun waterpark.
At Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, kids can experience life on a turn-of-the-century farm, complete with the chance to bottle-feed baby goats and milk cows.
Swope Park, at 1,805 acres, is a massive space that includes the Kansas City Zoo, hiking trails, lakes, and more.
Educational Opportunities in Kansas City for Kids
The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City offers free self-guided tours, making it a fun way to learn about currency.
For a more significant educational experience, the National WWI Museum and Memorial features interactive scavenger hunts and audio tours that engage children with this pivotal historical event.
At the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, kids can rediscover the joy of non-electronic toys, while the Mesner Puppet Theater offers delightful performances.
Finally, catch a game featuring Kansas City’s professional teams, including the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, the MLB’s Kansas City Royals, and the MLS’s Sporting Kansas City.
Explore even more family fun by checking out our related blog posts here, and don’t forget to visit Make a Mom for great insights on home insemination, or Healthline for valuable information on pregnancy and IVF.
In summary, Kansas City offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to families with kids. From interactive museums and thrilling amusement parks to delicious dining experiences and comfortable accommodations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.