Information
It is our policy to provide persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy the benefits of our services, programs, and activities. In order for us to provide reasonable accommodations, we ask that you request the assistance needed by contacting Parks and Recreation at 1101 Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, or call 785-587-2757 (TDD Kansas Relay Center at 800-766-3777).
We are here to assist you in the registration (application) process as well. Essential eligibility requirements for each program are on file. Assistive devices are available upon request.
First-Come, First-Paid: Space is limited for most of the programs we offer, and registration is accepted on a firstcome, first-paid basis. In some instances, a waiting list may be available.
MHKPRD Scholarship Policy: Some of our programs and memberships qualify for scholarships. Scholarships provide 50% cost assistance. You must show proof of participation in the USD Free/Reduced Fees program, or qualification under Federal Income Availability Guidelines. If participants are in need of additional aid, a short application can be filled out and can provide further cost assistance. Applications can be found at all of our locations and online at www. mhkprd.com/scholarships
Refund Policy for Activities Requiring Registration: Registrants will receive a full refund if we cancel the program, or we may be able to transfer you to another class. A full refund is granted if request to withdraw is received 1 week (7 days) before the class or event start date. A partial refund is issued when requested between 1 week and at least 48 hours before the start date. No refunds will be granted if the request is less than 48 hours in advance or if the participant fails to show. Participant withdrawals must be received during business hours.
Please note: Some programs have age restrictions and birth dates are required for each participant. Phone numbers are required for staff to access your account and for emergency purposes. For assistance, please call 785-587-2757, or come by one of our offices listed below during regular business hours.
SEPTEMBER 20 to JANUARY 4
Sponsored by:
Scholarship Program
Eligibility
Must be a resident of Manhattan or students enrolled in USD 383 (Manhattan–Ogden schools).
Provide proof of need, such as FRLP, SNAP/WIC, or income ≤150% of the poverty level
The City Staff will determine the eligible discount based on the provided documentation and guidelines How to Apply
Submit documentation or application to MPRD staff
Scholarships can be applied to
Youth programs
Membership programs to Sunset Zoo, Flint Hills Discovery Center, recreation centers and swimming pools
Adult programs with individual registration fees
Some City special events
Other similar services
Recreation Registration Deadlines
Adult Sports
mhkprd.com @manhattanparksandrec
Youth Sports
Boys & Girls 3v3 Basketball
Each team will be scheduled to play 2 games per night. Practices for team registrations will not be scheduled by MPRD, but will offer a free reservation once a week to hold practices. Practices will start the week of March 16. Games start March 31 and will end April 21, followed by an end of season tournament on April 28.
Grades 3rd - 8th
Session Dates March 16 - April 28
Location Eisenhower Rec Center
Registration Fee (Early/Reg) Deadline
Homeschool PE
Home-School PE is a 10-week program held twice a week to provide our Home-School community with structured Physical Education programming.
Location
Eisenhower Rec Center
Spring My First T-Ball
Spring My First T-Ball is a 4 session clinic for 2025/2026 kindergarteners. With parent participation and through drills and activities, they will learn fundamental skills like throwing, catching, and hitting to help prepare them for future MPRD T-Ball leagues.
My First Soccer
My First Soccer is an introductory, 4-session clinic for ages 3-6 years old. Kids will learn fundamental skills like kicking, dribbling, and ball control through different drills and activities.
Recreation
Youth Sports
Youth Baseball
Baseball will primarily play on Mondays and Wednesdays. Middle School Baseball will play doubleheaders on Friday evenings. Our 1st and 2nd grade divisions will play 6 games, 3rd/4th, and 5th/6th will play 8 games, and our middle school division will play 10 games. Please refer to the description of each league in the online catalog for more specific details.
mhkprd.com
Youth Softball
Softball will primarily play on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Our 1st and 2nd grade divisions will play 6 games, 3rd/4th, and 5th/6th will play 8 games, and our middle school division will play 10 games. Please refer to the description of each league in the online catalog for more specific details.
Youth Sports
Optimist T-Ball
Practices start the week of May 18, followed by 4 games. Games will be played Monday through Thursday evenings and start June 8. Team shirt will be provided. For children who have just completed kindergarten for the 2025/2026 school year. Manhattan Optimist Club has provided the support to make this program free of charge.
Summer My First T-Ball
Summer My First T-Ball is a 4-week clinic for 3 to 6 year olds. With parent participation and through drills and activities, they will learn fundamental skills like throwing, catching, and hitting to help prepare them for future MPRD T-Ball leagues. Age
3 - 6 year olds
June 8 - July 2
Flint Hills Summer Volleyball
A team registration Volleyball league for those who will be in grades 4th– 6th in the 2026/2027 school year. Practice will start June 22 and matches will begin on July 7. Matches will be played on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.
Grade 4th - 6th
Dates
June 22 - August 4 Team Fee (Early/Reg)
June 6 - June 27
June 2 - June 23
5:30 PM8:15 PM June 4 - June 25 Thursdays 5:30 PM8:15 PM
Adult Sports Recreation
Indoor Volleyball
Pickleball (Spring & Summer Leagues)
A team-registration league where teams of 2 play doubleheaders each night. Each season has one night of exhibition and finishes with a single elimination tournament. Teams are placed in a division based on their preference, their exhibition performance, and their history in previous seasons.
Womens League
Womens Indoor Volleyball is a team registration league. Games are played on either Tuesday or Thursday nights. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament.
March 24 - May 12
March 26 - May 14
Reverse CoRec League
Reverse CoRec Indoor Volleyball is a team registration league. Games are played on Wednesday nights. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament.
March 25 - May 13
Opens Spring Pickleball March 25May 13 January 5
June 1 - July 27 March 2
mhkprd.com
Adult Sports
Sand Volleyball
Sand Volleyball is a team registration league. CoRec, Womens, and Open divisions offered. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament.
Doubleheader League
These are team registration leagues with doubleheaders that are played on designated league nights. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament
Early Registration $105 $126 Registration
CoRec League
June 2 - July 21
June 3 - July 22
Womens League
June 4 - July 23
Early Registration $550 $660 Registration
(Mondays) March 30 - May 18
(Thursdays) April 2 - May 21
Singleheader League
This is a team registration league designed for recreational play. The league only plays one game per week on Sunday afternoons/evenings. Teams will play 8 total games with no post-season tournament.
June 5 - July 24
April 26 - June 21
TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
Park/Twin Oaks Sports Complex
CHECK OUT OUR TEAMSIDELINE SITE!
Easily find schedules for all of our youth and adult athletic programs Get the latest notifications on cancellations, schedule updates, team communications
Recreation
Pre-Ballet
This class introduces the basics of ballet. Ballet is the basis for several types of dance and helps children develop/improve their poise, flexibility, grace, selfdiscipline, and posture. Students will be introduced to basic beginning ballet techniques and vocabulary.
Dates
February 2 - April 6
5:50 - 6:20 PM
Ballet 1
Introduce your child to the elegance of ballet in our Ballet 1 class for ages 5-6! This class focuses on foundational ballet techniques, building strength and coordination through fun exercises and imaginative choreography. Young dancers will develop their skills while enjoying music and creative movement in a supportive environment. Join us as we nurture a love for dance and help your child shine!
Dates (Tuesdays)
February 3 - April 7 Tap
1 5:15 - 6 PM
2 6 - 6:45 PM
This class introduces the basics of tap. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, musicality, and learn tap terminology.
Dates (Wednesdays)
February 4 - April 8
mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec @ManhattanPRD
Combos Beginner
Unlock your child’s creativity in our Combo Beginner Dance classes for ages 7-8! This fun and engaging program introduces young dancers to a variety of styles, including ballet, jazz, and hip-hop. Each class focuses on building foundational skills, coordination, and confidence through playful exercises and routines. Perfect for energetic kids looking to explore the world of dance, these classes foster teamwork and self-expression while ensuring a joyful learning experience!
Dates (Mondays)
February 2 - April 6
6:30 - 7:30
Dance Squad 1
This class introduces the basics of jazz and poms. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, and learn dance terminology. Age
Dates (Wednesdays)
February 4 - April 8
Time 7 - 8 PM
Age 7-8 years
Modern Dance
This class introduces the intermediate level of Jazz and Poms. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, techniques and learn dance terminology at an intermediate level.
Dates (Thursdays)
February 5 - April 9
- 7:30 PM
Leaps and Turns
PROGRAM NEW
Take your dance skills to new heights in our Leaps and Turns classes for ages 11 to 17! This intensive program merges ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary styles, challenging dancers to master advanced techniques and choreography. Students will enhance their artistry, performance quality, and musicality while working collaboratively on creative routines. Ideal for dedicated dancers ready to push their limits and express themselves, these classes provide a dynamic environment to grow as artists and performers!
Dates (Thursdays)
February 5 - April 9
5:30 - 6:30 PM
Age 11-17 years
This class introduces the basics of hip-hop. Students will develop and improve flexibility and technique while learning several different dance combos.
Dates (Wednesdays)
February 4 - April 8
Time 6 - 7 PM
Age 6-16 years
mhkprd.com
Instructional Programs Recreation
Bowling Blast
Bowling Blast is a Special Populations program that allows participants to engage in recreational bowling.
Friday Fun Night
This is a Special Population Program that encourages participants to socialize while enjoying snacks, games, and music.
Student Union Bowling Center
Spring March 10 - May 26 January 5
Summer June 9 - August 25 March 2
Memorial Auditorium
Spring March 13 - June 5 January 5 Summer June 19September 11 March 2
mhkprd.com
Instructional Programs Recreation
Senior Trip
These trips are a fun and engaging way for our senior population to socialize in various recreational activities, ranging from dinner theater, tours, shows, and more.
New Dinner Theater: Elvis and Elton
Spring/Summer Art Classes
The Parks & Recreation Art Workshop offers a diversity of art forms to the youth of Manhattan. These workshops take a hands-on approach to learning different art techniques. Kids will use colored pencils, markers, crayons, oil pastels, chalk, watercolors, acrylics and much more as they create their own unique art. From drawing, painting, and sculpting to art lessons with engaging staff, participants will enjoy hours of fun and skill building.
Age 6-16 year olds
5:30 - 6:30 PM
Little Apple Day Camp
Kids who have completed Kindergarten through 6th grade as of June 2026 will enjoy a summer full of arts, crafts, games, swimming, special events and excursions at this KDHE-licensed day camp. Snacks are provided, and lunch is provided by USD 383. Attendees may take swimming lessons for an additional fee. Learn more at mhkprd.com/LADC
Registration Opens
March 2 at 8 AM
Time
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM Location Wefald Pavilion
Age
Must have completed grades K-6th Grade
Session Dates Fee
Session 1 May 26 - July 3 $800
Session 2 July 7 - August 7 $800
Swim Lessons for Day Camp
Times
8:45 AM or 9:30 AM
Sessions (Monday - Thursday) Fee (Early/Regular)
$65/$78
Session 1 June 1 - June 11
Session 2 June 15 - June 25
Session 3 July 6 - July 16
Session 4 July 20 - July 30
Douglass Recreation Complex
Fitness Pass Program
Adult Pass (18+)
Monday - Thursday
$15/Month
$5/Month
Senior Pass (55+) Friday 8 AM - 9 PM 8 AM - 7 PM
Fitness Classes
Session Dates
March 9 - April 29
May 11 - July 1
July 13 - September 2
Total Body Strong
Use your own body weight and free weight equipment for the upper and lower body and core. Build muscle, feel better and learn stretching exercises.
Time 5 - 6:15 PM Days Mondays & Wednesdays
Fee (per session) Early Registration $35
Fitness Classes
Total Body Fitness
A total body workout using fitness machines to get stronger and feel better.
(per session) Early Registration $35 $42 Registration
Douglass Activity Center Gym
Pickleball Time 8 AM - 12 PM Days
OPENING MAY 23!
NORTHVIEW
510 GRIFFITH DR. MON-FRI: 1-6 PM SAT-SUN: 1-7 PM 785-587-2713 CITY
WATERPARK RENTALS
WATERPARKS SPLASH PARK WATERPARKs SEASON PASSES
CICO 3309 ROBINSON DR. MON-FRI: 1-6 PM SAT-SUN: 1-7 PM 785-587-2711
Waterparks
mhkprd.com/Aquatics @mhkprdaquatics
Swim Lessons
Swim America is a national, goal-driven and technique oriented learn-to-swim program. Sessions run Monday through Thursday for two weeks. Average class size is 6 swimmers per coach.
Preschool participants must be 3 years old before the first class and must be accompanied by an adult in the water. One parent/guardian per participant.
Participants must attend the time and location of the session they are registered for.
City Waterpark
Session 1
Dates June 2 - 12
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 10:15 AM & 11AM
Ages: 5+ 8:45 AM*, 9:30 AM*, 10:30 AM & 11:15 AM
Session 2
Dates June 15 - 25
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 10:15 AM & 11AM
Ages: 5+ 8:45 AM*, 9:30 AM*, 10:30 AM & 11:15 AM
Session 3
Dates July 6 - 16
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 10:15 AM & 11AM
Ages: 5+ 8:45 AM*, 9:30 AM*, 10:30 AM & 11:15 AM
Session 4
Dates July 20 - 30
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 10:15 AM & 11AM
Ages: 5+ 8:45 AM*, 9:30 AM*, 10:30 AM & 11:15 AM
*Little Apple Day Camp participants can sign up for swim lessons during camp. Participants must be registered for LADC prior to signing up for swim lessons.
Northview Waterpark
Session 1
Dates June 8 - 18
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM
Ages: 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
CiCo Waterpark
Session 1
Dates June 8 - 18
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Ages: 5+ 9 AM, 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Session 2
Dates June 22 - July 2
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM
Ages: 5+ 9 AM, 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Session 2
Dates June 22 - July 2
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Ages: 5+ 9 AM, 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Session 3
Dates July 6 - 16
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM
Ages: 5+ 9 AM, 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Session 3
Dates July 6 - 16
Fee (Early/Reg) $65/$78
Ages: Pre-K & 5+ 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Ages: 5+ 9 AM, 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
Waterparks
mhkprd.com/Aquatics @mhkprdaquatics
Adaptive Swim Lessons
Our Adaptive Swimming Lessons provide a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with special needs to learn and enjoy the benefits of swimming. Designed for children of all abilities, our program focuses on safety, skill development, and building confidence in the water. Join us in fostering a love for swimming and enhancing the overall well-being of individuals with special needs through our adaptive swimming lessons. Fee $10
Weeknight Sessions
June 1 - June 4 6:15 PM Northview
June 1 - June 4 7 PM Northview
Weekend Sessions (four Saturdays)
June 6- June 27 8:30 AM Northview
June 6- June 27 9 AM Northview
July 11 - August 1 8:15 AM CiCo
July 11 - August 1 9 AM CiCo
Private Swim Lessons
Private lessons offer one-on-one lessons for swimmers of all ages and abilities, from our Lifeguards, who are Swim America certified coaches. Each 40 minutes session is a great opportunity for any swimmer to advance with personalized instruction.
Age 3+
Location
8:15 AM, 9 AM, 9:45 AM, 6:15 PM, 7 PM, 7:45 PM
City, CiCo, or Northview Waterpark
Fee (per session)
Early Registration $26 $31.20
Registration
Monday Sessions
June 1 July 20 July 27
Tuesday Sessions June 2 July 21 July 28
Wednesday Sessions
June 3 July 22 July 29
Thursday Sessions
June 4 July 23 July 30
Saturday Sessions
June 6 June 13 June 20
June 27 July 11 July 18
Waterparks
mhkprd.com/Aquatics @mhkprdaquatics
Adult Swim Class
Whether you’re a new swimmer with little experience, or an experienced swimmer looking for guidance on technique and endurance, we’re here for everyone! Sign up today for this instructor led adult swim class! Fee Early Registration $65 $78 Registration
Junior Lifeguarding
With MHKPRD’s Junior Lifeguard Program, teens ages 11 and older will spend a week with our certified lifeguard instructors, learning the basics of lifesaving.
$80/$96 Age 11+
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org
Exhibits
Building Buddies
@flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
September 20 - January 4, 2026
Lay the foundation for fun at Building Buddies, a small community where everyone is busy working on their homes. Grab your hard hat and put on your safety vest as you are immersed in a multi-sensory environment filled with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) learning experiences designed to promote collaborative play!
Hands-on open-ended activities that are fun and engaging for kids and their parents provide a discovery environment that encourages the development of science and process skills at an early age.
The immersive exhibit features role-play learning experiences with different characters, “buddies”, who invite young children to play, explore, collaborate, create, and learn while improving the neighborhood. Kids can:
• Organize and plan a house with Peter the Architect
• Help Eva brighten up her bungalow inside and out
• Build a doghouse for Winston the Bulldog
• Help Pipa Longpipe finish renovating her home
• Climb and build with Billy the Brick Layer
• Construct a chimney to keep the Walltons safe and warm
Building Buddies is developed by LooDo exhibits and touring in partnership with ScienceCenter.
Grassland Mini-Golf with Stepping into the Prairie
January 10 - May 10, 2026
Discover the rich ecology of the tallgrass prairie as you play your way through nine mini-golf holes. Each hole reveals a story about prairie plants, animals, and the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
Experience the one-of-a-kind Stepping into the Prairie immersive educational exhibit as you run, jump, and wave your arms to see the tallgrass prairie digitally come to life.
and
Roar and Explore with Dinosaurs
May 16 - September 6, 2026
Dinosaurs come to life through seven breathtaking animatronic models with lifelike movements and sounds in Roar and Explore with Dinosaurs. Guests can unearth their own prehistoric treasures in a fossil dig pit, get hands-on with a dino skeleton building activity, and learn about different species with an identifying interactive. Children and adults alike are sure to be captivated while learning about these fascinating creatures.
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Early Childhood Flint Hills Discovery Center
Nature Together
Parents, bring your littles ages 18 months to 3 and a half years to the outdoor classroom and build your skills to raise a nature lover. Play games, hear stories, and explore natural items using your five senses. Come prepared to get a little dirty, learn about nature, and be a role model in the outdoors for your child. Pre-registration is required. All youth must be accompanied by an adult.
Age
18 months – 3 years old and their guardian
Time (Fridays)
9:30-10:30 AM
Price (six-week session)
Preschool Together
Is your child not quite ready to tackle the world without you? In this beginner-level preschooler class, parents join their child in the classroom as they adjust to a new learning environment. The wonder of the Flint Hills comes to life as children begin discovering the culture, history, and ecology of the region. Each class includes hands-on activities, crafts, story time, and a snack. Pre-registration is required under the child’s name. All youth must be accompanied by an adult.
Age
2 1/2 - 4 year olds & guardian
Time (Thursdays)
10:30 - 11:30 AM
Price (four-week session)
Non-Members
FHDC Members $50 $60
Discovering Spring
April 3
April 17
May 1
Welcome, Summer
April 10
April 24
May 8
May 15 May 22
May 29
June 5
June 12 June 26
Fall Friends
September 4
September 18
October 2
September 11
September 25
October 9
Non-Members
FHDC Members $50 $60
Prairie Pals
Let’s Get Growing
All About Me
Colors and Shapes
January 8, 15, 22, 29
February 5, 12, 19, 26
March 5, 12, 26, April 2
April 9, 16, 23, 30
In the Garden May 7, 14, 21, 28
Under the Sea June 4, 11, 18, 25
Transportation Station
Weather Wonders
Space Explorers
July 9, 16, 23, 30
August 6, 13, 20, 27
September 3, 10, 17, 24
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Early Childhood Flint Hills Discovery Center
Preschoolers in the Flint Hills
The wonder of the Flint Hills comes to life as children begin discovering the culture, history, and ecology of the region. Each class includes hands-on activities, crafts, story time, and a snack. Pre-registration is required.
Age
3–5 year olds
Price (four-week session)
FHDC Members
Non-Members
Prairie Pals
Let’s Get Growing
All About Me
Colors and Shapes
In the Garden
Under the Sea
Transportation
Station
Weather Wonders
Space Explorers
Time (Tuesdays) 10:30 - 11:30 AM
$50
$60
January 6, 13, 20, 27
February 3, 10, 17, 24
March 3, 10, 24, 31
April 7, 14, 21, 28
May 5, 12, 19, 26
June 2, 9, 16, 23
July 7, 14, 21, 28
August 4, 11, 18, 25
September 1, 8, 15, 22
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
School Age Programs
Homeschoolers in the Flint Hills
Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center for Homeschoolers in the Flint Hills – a dynamic homeschool program offering immersive learning experiences! Our program is structured in 3-week drop-off sessions and designed to engage, inspire, and empower homeschool students in their educational journey. Each week will highlight new activities and opportunities for learning and fun! Preregistration is required.
Grades
Kindergarten-2nd Grade Time (Mondays) 9 AM - 12 PM Price (three-week session)
Living Things January 5, 12, 26
Human Impact February 2, 9, 23
Camp Discover
Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center in exciting handson experiments and activities designed especially for young explorers eager to follow their sense of wonder and creativity. Pre-registration is required.
Grade
Kindergarten-2nd Grade Time 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Members
Prairie Skies Friday, February 6
Prairie Pals, Day 1 Thursday, February 12
Prairie Pals, Day 2 Friday, February 13
Fun on the Prairie Monday, February 16
Mixology Friday, March 13
STEAM Break March 16 - 20
Storytime Celebration Friday, April 3
Make & Take Monday, April 20
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
School Age Programs
Exploration Camp
Youth explore the Flint Hills and beyond with Exploration Camp, formerly Kids’ Tallgrass Tours! Join the Discovery Center as we embark on day trips to exciting locations in central Kansas. We will dive into the history, culture, and natural beauty of our remarkable state. Trips leave from the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Participants will be required to bring a sack lunch and refillable water bottle each day. Pre-registration is required and opens March 2.
8-13 years old
Trails & Rails
Come along and explore the nearby trails of the past and present. We will hike, explore and visit historic and beautiful trails!
Session Dates
Week 1
Rocks & Caves
June 8 – 12
Visit a rock formation or man-made rock structure! Fossils, caves, and castles, oh my!
Session Dates
Week 2
Junior Naturalists
June 22 - 26
Explore and learn at nature centers across the region!
Session Dates
Week 3
Aquatic Adventures
July 13 - 17
Each day, we will visit a waterway! We will take a close look at the plants and animals in the creeks and streams of the Flint Hills.
Session Dates
Week 4 July 27 – 31
Parents’ Night Out
Parents’ Night Out gives adults the opportunity to enjoy a night out, while our trained education staff watch over their youth. This program includes pizza, drinks, a movie, and activities for kids to enjoy! Register early, limited spots are available!
Age
6-12 years old
Kids’ Outdoor Adventure Night In
There is adventure to be found everywhere you look. Join us as we meet a few prairie neighbors, snack on s’mores, and create a night you won’t forget!
Date Time
Friday, February 20 5:30 - 8:30 PM
Kids’ Game Night In
Calling gamers of all kinds! Join us in a night of competition. You won’t want to miss it!
Date Time
Friday, August 28 5:30 - 8:30 PM
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Family & Adult Programs
Make It! Build a Birdhouse
Join us in celebrating spring by picking up some tools and building a take-home bird house! We’ll provide all the tools, supplies, and materials you need.
March 28
5-17 years old and a guardian
FHDC Members
Walk and Talk
- 12
Tallgrass Tours
Explore the Flint Hills and beyond with the Tallgrass Tour! Join the Discovery Center as we embark on day trips to exciting locations in central Kansas. We will dive into the history, culture, and natural beauty of our remarkable state. Trips leave from the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Fees vary per trip. Pre-registration is required. Watch our website for information on specific tours.
Little Sweden’s Crafts and Castle
March 7
Washunga Days
Nature has lessons to teach us if we are willing to learn. Explore the majesty of the Flint Hills as local experts lead each Walk and Talk in various locations. Transportation, fees, and age appropriateness varies for each Walk and Talk. See our website for specific information. Pre-registration is required.
Snow Birds
Saturday, January 24
Guided Konza Hike
Saturday, April 11
The Lost Community of Carnahan
April 18
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Celebrate Kansas Day!
Celebrate the sunflower state as you participate in activities, stories, and education opportunities.
Learn about our state symbols during a live animal program, make a craft, color Kansas symbols, and listen to stories featuring Kansas!
Date
Saturday, January 24
Time 10 AM - 2 PM
Manhattan Seed Swap
The Manhattan Seed Swap is a free community event for sharing and swapping saved and leftover seeds. It’s a chance to exchange actual seeds, as well as knowledge and resources with fellow gardeners and plant enthusiasts. This is a come and go event, and seeds are available on a ‘first come first served’ basis. Those contributing seeds are encouraged to package and label with plant name and date to identify the contents. Tables will be set up for vegetables, herbs, native plants, annual flowers and non-native perennial flowers.
Meet the Makers
Monday-Friday, March 16-20, 10 AM-5 PM
Meet and learn from Flint Hills craft persons and artisans. Demonstrations will take place throughout the day. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and purchase from the makers. Different makers will participate each day. There is no cost to attend Meet the Makers in the atrium. Regular admission rates apply to enter the exhibits.
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org @flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Flint Hills Festival
Experience the culture and beauty of the Flint Hills at our annual festival. Located in the Discovery center and at Blue Earth Plaza, this fun-for-all-ages celebration of our beautiful region features live entertainment, food trucks, wine tastings, children’s activities, local craft vendors, and much more!
Date
Saturday, May 2
Time
10 AM - 5 PM
National Prairie Day
Celebrate the beauty and majesty of the diverse and fragile ecosystem of the grasslands with fun activities and educational programs for all ages!
National Day of the Cowboy
Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center for National Day of the Cowboy, an annual celebration of the national icon and the history and culture of the American West! Wrangle up the family for a day filled with activities embracing the Wild West. Dress up like a cowboy or cowgirl, take a western style photo, and brush up on your roping skills!
NATIONAL DAY
The Flint Hills Discovery Center Presents of the
Saturday JULY 25 10 AM-2 PM
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Early Childhood Programs
Animal Tales A-Z
Join us on an exciting alphabet adventure, where each week explores a new letter and a fascinating animal!
Enjoy a story, snack, and a take-home craft, all included with paid zoo admission. This program is designed for early childhood learners, but animal lovers of all ages are welcome!
Animal Tales A-Z will be reoccurring every other Thursday and Saturday. Check the Zoo’s website calendar for dates.
Zoofari Tails Storytimes
Slither into reading with Sunset Zoo and the Manhattan Public Library on the fourth Friday of every month. Each month features a different animal story; all storytimes include unique animal artifacts and some storytimes will present a live animal! This is a free program and registration is not required.
Location
Manhattan Public Library
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
School Age Programs
School Safari Camp
Explore the wonderful world of animals through Sunset Zoo’s camp adventures! Each day, campers will enjoy live animal presentations, science-oriented lessons, games and crafts, visits to zoo exhibits, animal encounters and behind-the-scenes explorations!
All camps are taught by Zoo staff trained in child development.
Parents can drop students off as early as 7:30am and pick them up as late as 5:30pm. Snacks are provided, but participants must bring a sack lunch.
Available for grades K-5th.
Time
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Price (per session)
FOSZ Members
Registration Opens
January 5 at 8 AM
$30
Non-Members $34
Day Camp Themes & Dates
Kansas Critters
February 7
Wild About Love #1 February 12
Wild About Love #2 February 13
Feast Mode February 16
Critter Constructors March 13
Wild Senses/Crazy Defenses
Born to Be Wild
March 16 - 20
April 3
Back from the Brink April 20
Summer Safari Camp
Explore the wonderful world of animals through Sunset Zoo’s camp adventures! Each week, campers will enjoy live animal presentations, science-oriented lessons, games and crafts, visits to zoo exhibits, animal encounters and behind-the-scenes explorations!
All camps are taught by Zoo staff trained in child development.
Parents can drop students off as early as 7:30am and pick them up as late as 5:30pm. Snacks are provided, but participants must bring a sack lunch.
Two age-specific options are available, grades K-2nd and grades 3rd-5th.
Time
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Price (weekly session)
Registration Opens
March 2 at 8 AM
FOSZ Members $175
Non-Members $200
Summer Camp Themes & Dates
Paws on Patrol
Zoo Done It?
Zoo Bio Blitz
Zoosical
Animal Grossology
Dino Discovery
Celebration Safari
Wild About Art
Planeteers
Web of Life
Jungle Journey
May 26 - 29
June 1 - 5
June 8 - 12
June 15 - 18*
June 22 - 26
June 29 – July 3
July 6 - 10
July 13 - 17
July 20 - 24
July 27 - 31
August 3 - 7
*Shorten week due to holiday
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
School Age Programs
Junior Zookeeper
So, do you want to be a zookeeper or just think animals are the coolest? The Junior Zookeeper (JZK) program gives high school students a behindthe-scenes look at the zoo world! Get hands-on experience alongside zookeepers, educators, and grounds teams while you engage with guests and build skills that will set you up for success—whether your future is in zoos or beyond. If you’re passionate about animals and ready to dive in, this is your chance! This year-long program is for you!
Program Logistics:
• Participants must be 14-17 years old at the start of the program (June 2nd).
• Participants may participate if they turn 18 during the program.
• Participants have a goal of completing 80 hours of service in the program year (June-May). They must complete these hours to attend the end of season trip.
Applications:
Applications open on March 1, 2026. Check Sunsetzoo. com for our application, or email zoovolunteer@ cityofmhk.com. Applications close on March 31 so interviews can begin!
Wildlife Warriors
Animals in decline? Not on our time! Join our crew of young conservationists (ages 10–13) to explore how humans impact the planet and how we can protect it. Through themed lessons, hands-on STEM activities, and Zoo excursions, participants will gain the tools and inspiration to become lifelong stewards of wildlife and wild places. Each class will focus on one of the threats to biodiversity following the H.I.P.P.O. acronym!
sunsetzoo.com
Family Programs Sunset Zoo
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Painting with the Animals
During this unique experience, families will visit a featured animal and use their powers of observation to create a masterpiece. To kick off your experience, Sunset Zoo staff will introduce the featured animal highlighting fun facts about the individuals in our care at the Zoo. After the brief introduction and interaction with related animal artifacts, families will self-guide their painting experience using tempera paint and 8x10 canvases. Depending on the featured animal, experiences may take place in the zoo at the animal’s habitat or in a space more conducive to viewing the featured animal.
Space is limited, thus pre-registration is required. Registration is first come, first serve.
Sunset Zoo staff will greet families participating in front of the Zoo’s ticket booth and guide participants to the location of the painting experience.
Experiences will last approximately 45 minutes.
Time
11 AM
Chinchilla
Colobus Monkey
Sloth Bear
Pelican
January 24
March 28
May 23
July 18
Tiger September 19
Zoo Snooze
Join us for an unforgettable sleepover at Sunset Zoo! Explore the Zoo after hours, meet animal ambassadors up close, and discover how incredible adaptations help animals survive and thrive. From evening hikes to morning adventures—and even next-day admission— it’s a night you won’t forget!
Grab your sleeping bag and get ready to sleep on the wild side!
Zoo Snooze - Overnight Adventures is a group event. Fee includes admission for 15 people. Additional fees will be added to groups over 15 people.
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Events
Science on Tap
Enjoy science in a fun and engaging way with this free, interactive program presented by Sunset Zoo at Manhattan Brewing Company. Program starts at 7 PM, be sure to arrive early to get a seat and any food and a beverage!
This event is in partnership with Kansas Science Festival. For topics and details please visit Manhattan Brewing Company and Sunset Zoo social media accounts.
Love Bites!
This Valentine’s Day, show your sense of humor (or let out some feelings) by naming a cockroach after someone special… or not so special! Our resident sloth bear will happily munch on your named critter during Love Bites.
Party for the Planet
Price Paint & Sip Classes
Join Sunset Zoo for our Paint and Sip class! Grab a friend, date, or come as you are for an evening of art, painting, wine, and fun! This class will be led by a certified art teacher and your class fee will include all supplies and wine.
Non-Alcohol Ticket $55
General Ticket $65
FOSZ Members receive $10 off/ticket
It’s an Earth Day celebration showcasing the conservation efforts of the Sunset Zoo and the community through interactive community booths, entertainment, face painting, and more!
Date Saturday, April 18
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
Events
Wine in the Wild
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Join us for the 19th annual Wine in the Wild hosted by the Friends of the Sunset Zoo. Stroll the Zoo’s trails, sampling various wines and light hors d’oeuvres while enjoying live music and the Zoo’s wild animal residents. For tickets and more information, visit SunsetZoo.com/Wine.
Summer Celebration
Summer fun at Sunset Zoo for the whole family! Stop by the Zoo for a bounce house, face painting, watermelon feed, and more. All kids, aged 12 and under, are admitted free with paid adult admission.
