THINGS TO DO IN
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Things To Do In Kansas City

Kansas City and its surroundings offer plenty of attractions perfect for kids and parents alike. From thrilling amusement parks and hands-on science centers to interactive experiences right inside Great Wolf Lodge, families will find endless opportunities for fun. Whether you’re planning a full day out or just a quick adventure, there’s something for every age group.

Family-Friendly Activities

1. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Kansas City

Great Wolf Lodge Kansas City is a premier family getaway offering a massive indoor water park packed with attractions for every age. Guests can race down high-speed slides, float along the lazy river, or splash in interactive play zones designed for younger children. Beyond the water park, the resort features themed suites, a variety of dining options, and kid-friendly activities such as MagiQuest, character meet-and-greets, and nightly story time. Parents love the convenience of having entertainment, food, and lodging all under one roof, while kids never run out of things to do. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, Great Wolf Lodge provides nonstop fun in a safe, climate-controlled environment year-round.

2. Science City

Science City is located within the famous Union Station in Kansas City. It provides tons of hands-on experiences for kids! Watch your kids engage in early STEM skills like making observations, developing tool literacy and practicing fine motor skills.

You can also learn more about the night sky at the planetarium, check out some of the daily demonstrations and explore the individual exhibits! 

Source: ScienceCityKC Facebook

3. Kansas City Zoo

Welcome to the Kansas City Zoo, home to over 1,300 animals! The 202-acre property contains of all sorts of exotic animals, from orangutans, giraffes, elephants and more!

The zoo also features zookeeper chats, animal shows, feedings, Zoofari Adventure camps, and tons of other educational experiences for kids.

Source: Kansas City Zoo Twitter

4. Ernie Miller Nature Center

Itching to get out of the city? Hop in the car and head over to the Ernie Miller Nature Center. The 116-acre nature park offers grass prairies, upland meadows, bottomland forests, and a beautiful stream to explore.

There's even a new exhibit gallery on the property featuring live animal displays and interactive exhibits!

Source: JCPRDemncnature Twitter

5. Worlds of Fun / Oceans of Fun

Into theme parks? Then you won't want to skip on the opportunity to visit Worlds of Fun! The park spans 235 acres and contains tons of rides, slides, live shows, dance parties and more!

Head next door to Oceans of Fun to explore some of their water park activities. There's a 1,034,364-gallon wave pool, 720-foot lazy-river, 23 slides, and tons of other attractions to check out.

Source: Worlds of Fun Twitter

6. SeaLife Aquarium

Who doesn't love a good aquarium? Check out over 250 species of marine creatures, including octopus, sharks, stingrays and more! There are also educational talks, animal encounters and interactive exhibits to explore.

Source: SeaLife Aquarium Twitter

7. Zip KC

Take in the city from above! Zip KC is located in Bonner Springs, a suburban region just outside of the of the city's downtown. Take in some amazing views of the surrounding area, go on a hiking excursion, or enjoy a ninja training activity.

8. Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead

Do your kids love animals? Head over to Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead. There, you'll be able to visit more than 250 animals and birds, learn about growing flowers and vegetables, experience a Kanza Indian encampment, take a stroll through mainstream, and stop by the fishing pond!

Source: drcfarmstead Twitter

9. Kaleidoscope

Provided by the Hallmark Visitors Center, Kaleidoscope provides a place for kids to explore their creative side. Using Crayola supplies and Hallmark materials, kids are able to create their very own works of art.

Source: via Kaleidoscope

10. Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm

Welcome to the only working stagecoach stop left on the Santa Fe Trail! The Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm offers visitors of all ages opportunities to engage in different aspects of life on the Kansas frontier, 1860's farming and stagecoach travel.

Source: Lamb on Mahaffie farm Twitter

11. Paradise Park

There are tons of things to do at Paradise Park, including go-karts, miniature gold, laser tag, rock wall climbing and more!

Children seven and under should head over to the discovery area, where they can explore more hands-on activities and experiences. There's also a full service cafe on-site for when the kids get hungry!

Source: ParadiseParkKC Facebook

12. Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch

It may have started as a traditional pumpkin farm, but these days, the Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch offers a whole lot more than that.

Head on over to enjoy some apple picking, corn maze exploring, cider sipping, animal feeding and more! You can top it all off with a sweet treat before you leave.

Source: FunFarmPumpkinPatch Facebook

13. LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Known as the ultimate indoor playground, LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers two rides, 12 Lego build & play zones, a 4D cinema and tons of other attractions for the kids to enjoy!

Source: Legoland Twitter

14. Loose Park

This 75-acre stretch is known for being the most beautiful, popular and historical park in all of Kansas City.

During the civil war, it served as a major site for the Battle of Westport, where Confederate forces were routed by Union forces in the area. Today, it features playground areas, gardens, picnic tables, fountains and more.

Source: kcparks.org

Museums & History

Step back in time and discover Kansas City’s rich past through its fascinating museums and landmarks. Explore exhibits dedicated to jazz, baseball, and world history, or visit sites that highlight the region’s cultural heritage. These destinations make learning an adventure for visitors of all ages.

1. American Jazz Museum

Kansas City has a rich musical history, so of course there's a museum dedicated to Jazz! The American Jazz Museum is located in the Historic 18th and Vine Jazz District in Kansas City, Missouri.

You'll have the opportunity to soak up the sights and sounds of jazz through interactive exhibits and films, the Changing Gallery exhibit space, Horace M. Peterson III Visitors Center, Blue Room jazz club, and the Gem Theater.

Source: via Kaleidoscope

2. Nation World War I Museum

If there's a history buff in the family, then do them a solid and pay a visit to the National World War I Museum.

Take in original objects collected from the era including documents, video, recreated trenches and interactive tables.

3. Leila's Hair Museum

Get ready to add something quirky to the agenda! Leila's Hair Museum serves as the largest - and maybe the only - national collection of wreathes and jewelry made entirely out of hair.

Former hairdresser, Leila Cohoon, started the museum back in 1989. Today, she has amassed an impressive collection of framed hair samples, some of which are a hundred years old!

4. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Everything has a history - even toys! Visit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, where you'll find the world's largest fine-scale miniature collection and of the nation's largest antique toy collections on public display.

Source: Toy Miniature Twitter

5. American Steamboat Museum

In 1988, local residents discovered the location of a sunken vessel that had been missing for over 30 years. Today, the vessel and its uncovered objects appear on display at the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

Recently voted "Favorite Kansas Hidden Gem," by Visit KC, the museum helps give visitors a better understanding of what life was like for 19th century pioneers.

6. Truman House

The home on North Delaware St. belonged to former president Harry Truman and his first wife, Bess Wallace. The house was originally built in 1867 and was occupied by the family until 1972.

Truman used the house during his presidency as a summer getaway. Today, the site is a registered National Historic Site. Visitors can enjoy the simple life enjoyed by Harry and Bess before, during and after his presidency.

The center also hosts tons of in-person programs. Make sure to check out the events calendar listed on the website to see what's offered during your visit!

Source: Truman Home Twitter

7. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Time to take in a little culture! The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses more than 35,000 works of art and welcomes 500,000 visitors every year. In addition to all the exhibits offered are classes, tours, festivals and more.

8. Money Museum

It's never too early to learn the importance of cold, hard cash, right? The Money Museum in Kansas City offers both guided and self-guided tours.

Source: KC Fed Twitter

1. Sprint Center

Take in a live performance at the Spring Center! The 18,000-foot arena has hosted major names in the music industry including Justin Timberlake, Elton John, Ozzy Osborne and more.

Source: Sprint Center Twitter

2. Kansas City Rose Garden

1.5 acres of garden, 150 varieties of roses, and 3,000 plants. Need we say more? The Kansas City Municipal Garden was originally opened back in 1931 and has been growing ever since!

Source: KC Parks

3. Kansas City Workhouse

Ever want to visit a castle? Now's your chance! The Kansas City Workhouse is situated in the historic portion of Kansas City, Missouri and is designed in medieval style. It's even got a stone fortress! Of course, the history behind the building is a little different than other castles you may find around the world. The Workhouse was a former jail, housing petty offenders such a drunks or beggars.

4. J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountains

Its not called the city of fountains for nothing. Kansas City boasts over 200 fountains, more than any other city in the world (excluding Rome)!

The most famous and most-photographed of these fountains is the J.C. Nichols Memorial, located at the east entrance to the Country Club Plaza district.

Henri Greber originally sculpted the figures in 1910 to adorn a mansion in Long Island, NY. It was eventually brought to Kansas City in 1951 and refurbished by Herman Frederick Simon.

The fountain contains four "heroic horsemen" who are said to represent the mighty four rivers of the world: the Mississippi, the Volga River, the Seine and the Rhine.

Source: via KC Parks

5. Kansas City Power & Light District

This vibrant downtown entertainment district is packed with restaurants, bars, live music venues, and nightlife hot spots. It’s a go-to destination for big events, casual evenings out, and experiencing Kansas City’s urban energy.

6. Crossroads Arts District

Known for its galleries, studios, and creative vibe, this neighborhood is the heart of Kansas City’s art scene. Visitors can explore eclectic shops, vibrant murals, and unique restaurants, especially lively during First Fridays art walks.

7. Westport

One of Kansas City’s oldest neighborhoods, Westport blends historic charm with modern dining and nightlife. Its walkable streets are lined with bars, eateries, and boutiques, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

1. Boulevard Brewing Company

Time to get a sitter! The Kansas City's Boulevard Brewing Company provides the perfect excuse for a parent's night out.

The brewery contains an amazing selection of beers, including vegan-friendly options, fine ales and seasonal releases.

Have a drink or take a tour of the property. There are also some shuffleboard courts located on the top floor!

Source: Boulevard Brewing Company Twitter

2. Country Club Plaza

Need to squeeze in a shopping trip? Head over to Country Club Plaza, Kansas City's premiere shopping and dining destination! The plaza is home to high-end boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues.

The whole place spans a whopping 15 blocks! There are also tons of fountains located around the property, more than 30 statues, as well as murals and tile mosaics to take in.

Source: Country Club Plaza Twitter

3. City Market

City Market, aka the River Market, has long served Kansas City as a popular tourist destination. Take in one of the largest farmers markets in the region, stocked with the best local produce around.

There are also tons of activities too, including the local parks and local river for hiking, biking and boating!

Source: Kansas City Market Twitter

4. Jones BBQ

We told you Kansas City was known for its barbecue! You may recognize the name Jones Bar-B-Q. Sisters Deborah "Shorty" and Mary "Little" run the restaurant together, working hard to maintain the legacy started by their father.

In fact, the family owned food stop was recently featured on the Netflix hit series Queer Eye. Today, both the shop and the sisters are doing well with their new makeovers, and sales are at an all-time high.

Stop in for a taste of what all the hype is about! You won't want to miss out on their smoked meats and secret family BBQ sauce!

Source: JonesBarBQKC Facebook

5. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) helps celebrate the rich history of African-American baseball and its cultural impact on America.

The NLBM is the only museum of its kind, and has welcomed more than 2-million visitors since it originally opened back in 1990. Stop by and enjoy the self-guided tour!

The exhibition features text panels, hundreds of photographs, artifacts and several film exhibits.

Source: Negro League Baseball Museum Twitter

6. Kauffman Stadium

Kauffman Stadium is home to the Kansas City Royals. Originally opened as Royals Stadium back in 1973, the arena is recognized as one of the baseball's most beautiful ballparks.

There's even a pool tucked behind the left field corner! That's right, the 322-foot wide water spectacular opened as the largest privately funded fountain in the world.

Source: Royals Twitter

7. The College Basketball Experience

The College Basketball Experience offers visitors a place to pay homage to legendary coaches and players. It also offers them a place to play ball! The "activity station" offers up a place to sharpen your skills, from rebounding, passing, three-point shooting, to free throw shooting and more.

Source: TheCBE Twitter

8. Fritz's Railway Restaurant

Welcome to another Kansas City Tradition! Fritz's Railroad Restaurant has been around since 1954. Head this way if you want to experience some of the best burgers in town, delivered to your table by an overhead train.

Source: fritzsrestaurantkc Facebook

9. Kansas Speedway

Kansas City is all about Nascar, so get in the spirit of the city with a trip to the track! The 1.5-mile track hosts two annual Nascar race weekends as well as a number of other high-speed thrills.

Source: Kansas Speedway Twitter

10. Arrowhead Stadium

Any football fans around? Head over to Arrowhead Stadium and take in a Chiefs Game. You can also arrange a tailgating party or take a tour of the stadium.

The arena doubles as a music venue, so there's opportunity to enjoy the space even if you aren't into football!

Not only will you see the great Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but you might catch a glimpse of of the legendary Taylor Swift!

Source: arrowhead stadium Twitter

11. The Flavors of Central Tour

You can't get to know Kansas City without getting a taste for its food. Sign up and discover the best cuisine in town.

Source: Kansas City food tour Twitter

12. Children's Mercy Park

Home to Sporting Kansas City, this state-of-the-art soccer stadium delivers thrilling matches and an electric atmosphere for fans. The venue also hosts concerts and special events, making it a premier sports destination in the region.

13. Joe’s KC BBQ

Famous for its mouthwatering smoked meats and legendary Z-Man sandwich, Joe’s KC BBQ is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. Its gas-station location adds to the charm of this Kansas City classic.

14. Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque

A historic barbecue institution, Arthur Bryant’s has been serving slow-smoked perfection for decades. Known for its tangy signature sauce and hearty portions, it remains a bucket-list stop for authentic Kansas City barbecue.

15. Q39

A historic barbecue institution, Arthur Bryant’s has been serving slow-smoked perfection for decades. Known for its tangy signature sauce and hearty portions, it remains a bucket-list stop for authentic Kansas City barbecue.

So, there you have it! Did you enjoy our list of the best things to do in Kansas City? If you haven't yet figured out where to stay during your stay, think about making Great Wolf Lodge home base. Visit our official site for more information on our Kansas City lodge. We hope to see you soon!