2025
kc’s #1 family travel guide since 2010
652
UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS
free & cheap
fun in kansas city
what’s new in 2025
experiences
for every interest
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CONTENTS
FEATURES 16 Memorable Date Nights in KC Enjoy a unique, unforgettable outing
18 STEM-Inspired Outings Explore science and tech together
20 History Lover’s Guide to KC Take a journey back in time
22 Art Adventures Get creative with hands-on experiences
24 Touring KC’s Sweet Treats Indulge in the best yumminess
26 DIY Souvenirs Craft a fun, KC keepsake
24
28 KC’s Free and Cheap Fun Enjoy budget-friendly activities
GO PLACES
HISTORIC PLACES 42
CREATIVE PLACES 30 32 33
paint, sew, make things culinary experiences art museums
FUN PLACES
SCIENCE PLACES 48 49 49 50
38 39 40 40
science museums zoos, aquariums and farms gardens conservation centers
THEATRICAL PLACES
34 amusement parks, arcades 37
history museums and tours
and entertainment centers children’s museums and indoor playgrounds
52
ADVENTUROUS PLACES zip lines, rock walls, obstacle courses and skydiving trampoline parks and bounce houses wheels, water and sky escape rooms, mystery theater and thrills
56 57 57 60 61 61
20
22
live theater, dance and entertainment
SPORTS PLACES pro, semi-pro and college sports bowling pools skating sports museums complexes, batting cages and golf
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editor’s letter Publisher
Welcome to Kansas City—where Midwestern charm meets big-city excitement and every day brings a new reason to love it here!
kc’s #1 family travel guide since 2010
652
UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS
free & cheap
fun in kansas city
what’s new
in 2025
experiences
for every interest
Our cover features Michael Edwards Photography at MEdwardsPhoto.com
6
KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor
T
2025
Michael Gimotty
here’s nothing I love more than sharing my city with both new and old friends. Whether it’s dinner and shopping at the Plaza, jogging through one of our scenic parks or exploring the vibrant arts and entertainment scene in the Crossroads, KC truly has something for everyone. This year is especially exciting for me— 2025 marks a new chapter as my husband and I welcomed our first baby boy this spring. I couldn’t be more thrilled to raise him in a city that’s not only full of history and culture, but brimming with family-friendly fun. From afternoons exploring the interactive exhibits at the new InspireU Children’s Discovery Center to weekend rides on the expanded KC Streetcar, there are more ways than ever to experience Kansas City together. Speaking of excitement, Kansas City is in a golden era of sports! With CPKC Stadium opening last year and already making waves as a premier venue, the Chiefs continuing their streak of Super Bowl appearances and the Royals and Monarchs bringing the energy all summer long, there’s never been a better time to support our home teams. Of course, no visit to KC is complete without indulging in its incredible food scene. Whether you’re sampling world-famous barbecue or planning a date night at one of the city’s newest hot spots (such as the riverfront dining experience at the Rock Island Bridge), there’s something to satisfy every craving. One of the things I love most about Kansas City is how we embrace every season. Summer nights are for patio dining and outdoor concerts; fall brings pumpkin patches and festivals; winter means ice skating at Crown Center; and spring is perfect for berry picking, strolling through the city’s beautiful gardens and exploring farmers markets as everything comes back to life. As you flip through the pages of KC Going Places, you’ll find inspiration for exploring the city’s best attractions, new and old alike. No matter what brings you to Kansas City, we hope you love it just as much as we do. Welcome to KC—we’re so happy you’re here! Halley Zitterkopf, Editor
Halley Zitterkopf Halley@KCParent.com Managing Editor Lauri Clapper Lauri@FamilyMediaGroup.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design TappanDesign@Gmail.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Copy Editor Kelsey Beck Kelsey@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, email Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Hannah Berry (Kansas City) Margaret Bristow (Kansas City) Allie Cole (Lenexa) Julie Collett (Overland Park) Lauren Greenlee (Olathe) Anna Heistand (Blue Springs) Taylor Seidel (Northland) Mailing Address 11937 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone 913.681.5139 fax
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KC Going Places is published 2 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Going Places’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. KC Going Places Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Going Places will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Going Places often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.
WHAT’S NEW IN 2025
ANDRETTI INDOOR KARTING & GAMES is set to bring high-energy entertainment to the Aspiria campus in Overland Park, Kan. Spanning 103,430 square feet, the complex will feature a multi-level go-kart track, laser tag, bowling, an arcade and a full-service restaurant. Slated to open by summer 2025, it will provide a thrilling destination for families as well as corporate team-building events. AndrettiKarting.com
INSPIREU CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY CENTER in downtown St. Joseph, Mo., is a 35,000-square-foot facility dedicated to fostering curiosity and creativity among children and adults. The center offers a variety of interactive exhibits across multiple floors, including a rooftop space, providing hands-on learning experiences for all ages. InspireU.com
THE ROCK ISLAND BRIDGE in Kansas City, Mo., is being transformed into a unique entertainment district scheduled to open in 2025. The historic 1905 railroad bridge will be repurposed into a vibrant gathering space with restaurants, live music venues, coffee shops and bars, all elevated 60 feet above the Kansas River. RockIslandKC.com
GREEN STREET This new hot spot in downtown Lee’s Summit, Mo., is set to open in mid-2025. The project features a new farmers market and event space, an outdoor performance area and a creatively streetscaped pavilion. The project also includes a boutique hotel with first-floor retail, a freestanding restaurant and urban apartments. CityOfLS.net
MARGARITAVILLE HOTEL KANSAS CITY In the heart of the Midwest, this coastal-themed hotel opening in 2025 will feature over 200 rooms, a resort-style pool and family-friendly entertainment options. Guests will enjoy signature Margaritaville dining experiences, a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation and a ninja ropes course overlooking the indoor pool. MargaritavilleResorts.com
MUSEUM OF BBQ Kansas City is now home to the world’s first Museum of BBQ, which opened in April 2025 at Crown Center. This immersive 4,223-square-foot museum features interactive exhibits that delve into the essential elements of barbecue—meat, rubs, spices, wood, fire, smoke and sauce—and explore regional styles from the Carolinas, Memphis, Texas and Kansas City. MuseumOfBBQ.co
KCGOINGPLACES.COM
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GO SEE KC
Go Explore Midtown Kansas City is home to an impressive arts scene, with several top-tier galleries open to the public for free. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country, offers a world-class collection spanning centuries and cultures. Inside, visitors can explore masterpieces from around the globe, while outside, the museum’s iconic Sculpture Garden provides a stunning setting for a scenic stroll through art history. For those who love contemporary works, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art features dynamic exhibitions, special events and hands-on workshops for families. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Explore the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium to get up close with thousands of animals, including marine life in the new world-class aquarium. Feed camels, visit Polar Bear Passage, touch stingrays and wander through Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Billy Goats Gruff, Australia and the expansive Africa exhibit. For more nature adventures, stop by Lakeside Nature Center, a free attraction with interactive exhibits. In the summer, don’t miss Broadwaystyle performances and live concerts under the stars at Starlight Theatre. Adventure lovers should head to Go Ape for a treetop obstacle course, zip lines and rope challenges.
The Country Club Plaza, with its stunning towers, sculptures, paintings and mosaics inspired by Seville, Spain, is one of Kansas City’s most picturesque spots and home to many of the city’s most beautiful fountains. Nearby, explore the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, where interactive exhibits invite visitors on a nostalgic journey through the world of toys. Also, take some time to visit Loose Park, Kansas City’s third-largest park, which offers a peaceful setting with a lake, rose garden and historical Civil War markers—perfect for picnics, leisurely walks or simply enjoying nature. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures 8
KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Go Explore Crown Center District Spend a day at the National World War I Museum and Memorial exploring interactive displays, films and eyewitness testimonies that showcase one of the world’s largest WWI artifact collections. Then take a tour to the top of the memorial for a stunning city skyline view. Nearby, Union Station houses Science City’s hands-on exhibits and Gottlieb Planetarium’s 360-degree domed screen. Don’t miss “The Science of Guinness World Records” (Mar. 8–Sept. 2), an interactive exhibit revealing the science behind record-breaking feats. Before you go, stop by the Money Museum, a free attraction where guests leave with a bag of shredded cash. Union Station
Plan to visit Crown Center in the heart of Kansas City, Mo., for top attractions, shops and restaurants. Opening in spring 2025, the Museum of BBQ will be the world’s first barbecue museum, featuring interactive exhibits on regional barbecue. Families can also enjoy Crown Center’s free hands-on exhibits for children, ice skating at the Ice Terrace in winter and professional children’s theater at The Coterie. Kaleidoscope offers a free creative space for kids, while Sea Life features an underwater tunnel and aquatic exhibits. Legoland Discovery Center provides interactive play areas, a 4D cinema and exciting rides. Sea Life
Head to the Money Museum, a free attraction where guests leave with a bag of shredded cash. Then hop on the free KC Streetcar to City Market, with many stops along the way. A 3.5-mile Main Street Extension to the University of Missouri-Kansas City, set to open in early 2025, will add 16 new stops. Nearby, visit the National Archives of Kansas City for research assistance and the free “We the People” exhibit. Enjoy top dining options like Jack Stack for barbecue, Lydia’s for Italian, Fritz’s for kid-friendly traindelivered meals, Unforked for locally sourced dishes or Pierpont’s for steak.
Money Museum KCGOINGPLACES.COM
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GO SEE KC
Go Explore Downtown KCMO Adding to the city’s excitement, CPKC Stadium, the world’s first stadium built for a professional women’s sports team, opened in March 2024 as part of a major riverfront redevelopment. Nearby, Bar K offers a lively dog-friendly bar and event space, while farther west, the historic Rock Island Bridge is transforming into a one-of-a-kind entertainment district. Opening in 2025, it will feature restaurants, coffee shops, bars and live music, all 60 feet above the Kansas River. CPKC Stadium
Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine District is a must-visit—it’s home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, where life-size bronze statues bring legendary players to life, as well as the American Jazz Museum, which celebrates KC’s deep musical roots. Nearby, catch a live jazz performance at the Gem Theater or The Blue Room for an authentic taste of the city’s culture. For easy exploration, hop on the free KC Streetcar, and stop at the Power & Light District for dining, shopping and live entertainment. Cosentino’s rooftop park, the Central Library’s famous bookshelf garage and the River Market District offer more unique experiences. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Each month, Kansas City rolls out the red carpet with special events, sales and entertainment. First Fridays in the Crossroads draw thousands with art, food and street performances, while the Arabia Steamboat Museum in the River Market takes visitors on a journey through 19th-century history. For panoramic views of downtown Kansas City, ride The KC Wheel, a 150-foot observation wheel featuring 36 climate-controlled gondolas for year-round fun.
The KC Wheel 10 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Go Explore Eastern Jackson County Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Powell Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden featuring vibrant flower displays, native prairies and scenic trails. The garden hosts seasonal festivals and special exhibits throughout the year, including the popular Festival of Lights during the holiday season. Nearby, the Cockrell Mercantile Company offers a collection of charming boutique shops, and Burr Oak Woods Nature Center provides miles of free trails for hiking and wildlifewatching. For kid-sized fun, head to Wonderscope, a handson children’s museum with a variety of interactive exhibits.
Powell Gardens
Downtown Lee’s Summit, Mo., set to expand in 2025, is a vibrant hub featuring an array of shops and boutiques, including bookstores, clothing shops, art galleries and specialty stores. For family fun, visit Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park, or K1 Speed, a world-class indoor go-kart track. Just a short drive away, Main Event in Independence, Mo., offers arcade games, bowling, billiards, laser tag and obstacle courses. Year-round entertainment awaits at Independence Community Ice, an indoor skating rink, and Cable-Dahmer Arena, which hosts live performances and Kansas City’s only professional hockey team, the Kansas City Mavericks. Downtown Lee’s Summit
Independence, Mo., is a key historic starting point for the Oregon, California and Santa Fe Trails. Learn about the former president’s humble lifestyle at the Truman Home and visit the newly renovated Truman Presidential Library. Then explore other historic sites, including Vaile Mansion, the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, the 1859 Jail Museum and the National Frontier Trails Museum. History buffs can ride through town on a mule-drawn wagon with Pioneer Trails Adventures, then grab a soda at Clinton’s Soda Fountain, where young Harry Truman once worked, in the historic downtown Independence Square. Truman Presidential Library KCGOINGPLACES.COM 11
GO SEE KC
Go Explore Johnson County Ready to kick back with some live entertainment? The Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College presents concerts, musicals and performances year-round. Creative visitors can design pottery keepsakes at Ceramic Cafe, which also offers glass fusing workshops. Head to Family Tree Nursery to feed the koi fish and soak in all things plants. For those rainy days, Johnson County is home to many cute coffee shops with play areas, like Inspired Play Cafe, where parents can relax with a coffee while kids play.
Family Tree Nursery
Discover Johnson County’s rich Midwestern history at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, where visitors enjoy 1850s farming experiences, stagecoach rides and a working blacksmith shop. Shawnee Town 1929 offers a glimpse into small-town life in the late 1920s, while Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead delights families with over 200 farm animals, beautiful gardens and pony rides. The Johnson County Museum features award-winning exhibits, including a 1950s electric house and the interactive KidScape play area for little ones.
KidScape
For high-energy fun, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, featuring a multi-level go-kart track, laser tag, bowling, an arcade and a full-service restaurant, is set to open at Aspiria in summer 2025. Families love Urban Air, a favorite indoor trampoline park with an indoor playground and fun for all ages with obstacle courses and games. Topgolf offers high-tech driving range fun while RoKC tests your limits with rock climbing walls.
Topgolf 12 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Go Explore Kansas Head west to Legends Outlets in Kansas City, Kan., for a day of shopping and local attractions. You even can walk the Yellow Brick Road, a tribute to Kansas’ literary fame in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Catch a movie at the theater or listen to a concert on The Lawn. Nearby, you can enjoy a soccer game at Sporting KC, a race at Kansas Speedway or a Monarchs baseball game at Legends Field. Opening in 2025, the Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City will bring a coastal escape to the Midwest with over 200 rooms, a resort-style pool, family-friendly entertainment and a ninja ropes course overlooking the indoor pool. Legends Outlets
Discover the vibrant charm of Lawrence, Kan., home to the University of Kansas and the lively Massachusetts Street. This bustling district is packed with shops offering everything from antiques and books to clothing and candles. Families will love Prairie Park Nature Center, where kids can get up close with reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals through interactive exhibits. The KU Natural History Museum showcases fascinating displays, including a fossil collection featuring the massive mosasaur. Lawrence hosts a variety of events, from the quirky Art Tougeau parade and food truck festivals to the old-fashioned Christmas parade.
Lawrence Old-fashioned Christmas Parade
From towering rock formations and scenic prairies to unique parks and interactive sites, the Sunflower State has so much to offer. Have you ever wanted to swim with penguins, pet a sloth, hold a lemur, feed a lion or meet a capybara? Believe it or not, there’s a magical zoo near Wichita where you can do all that and more! Tanganyika Wildlife Park is an intimate, privately-owned zoo with spacious, beautifully maintained exhibits that provide natural habitats for the animals. Visitors can customize their experience by booking individual animal encounters, and every visit promises unforgettable hands-on interactions. Discover a variety of Kansas day trip ideas at KCParent.com, complete with ready-made itineraries for Wichita, Hutchinson, Lindsborg and more.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park KCGOINGPLACES.COM 13
GO SEE KC
Go Explore the Northland For a brand-new adventure, head to InspireU Children’s Discovery Center in downtown St. Joseph, Mo. This 35,000-square-foot facility features 21 interactive exhibits on multiple floors designed to spark creativity and curiosity in children up to age 10. On warmer days, check out their rooftop play space. In the fall, Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch in Liberty, Mo., offers pumpkin picking, a petting farm, hayrides, Pumpkinator pumpkin cannon, Little Bud’s Railroad, a giant jumping pillow and the best homemade apple cider donuts.
InspireU Children’s Discovery Center
The Rabbit hOle
Visit Worlds of Fun for seven world-class roller coasters and classic carnival rides plus Planet Snoopy, a kids’ area packed with family-friendly rides. Your ticket also gets you access to Oceans of Fun’s exciting water attractions, including a lazy river, a wave pool and the massive Splash Island sprayground. Next, hop over to The Rabbit hOle, KC’s new children’s literature museum featuring interactive exhibits inspired by classic books. You can enter a life-sized recreation of the bedroom from Goodnight Moon, explore scenes from the charming Parisian adventures of Madeline and much more!
The Museum of Kansas City has free admission to access fascinating exhibits inside the historic Corinthian Hall mansion. The museum explores Kansas City’s past, from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the city’s modern growth. In historic downtown Liberty, Mo., explore the Jesse James Bank Museum, the site of the first recorded daytime bank robbery, and browse the charming square lined with cafes, boutiques and shops. Liberty also hosts First Thursdays, featuring late-night shopping and themed events, and offers live entertainment at the Corbin Theatre and Liberty Symphony.
Jesse James Bank Museum 14 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Go Explore the Country Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins in Belton, Mo., is a beautiful agritourism attraction where you can shop the lovely nursery and pick apples in the late summer, as well as vegetables and pumpkins in the fall. About 45 minutes from Belton in Holden, Mo., is Green Meadows Alpaca Ranch. This local ranch, Airbnb and agritourism destination offers guests the chance to stay overnight or enjoy an afternoon “Paca Picnic.” The scenic farm is home to over 30 Suri and Huacaya alpacas, each with its own unique personality, as well as llamas, goats and sheep. Visitors can feed the animals, learn about their care and enjoy a picnic. Green Meadows Alpaca Ranch
The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, spanning 300 acres in southern Johnson County, Kan., offers a serene escape into nature. Visitors can explore the whimsical Children’s Discovery Garden, wander through wooded trails and admire the enchanting Monet Garden. As a year-round destination, the Arboretum hosts a variety of seasonal events, including Stems: A Garden Soirée each summer, Terra Luna in September and the annual Luminary Walk during the holiday season. Plus, grab a coffee or lunch at the Arboretum’s Cafe Celeste and enjoy scenic views of the gardens. Admission is affordable, with free entry on the first Tuesday of each month. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory
Experience the charm of the Kansas countryside with fresh-made cider and warm cider donuts at Louisburg Cider Mill, home of the annual Ciderfest in two weekends in the fall and their enormous pumpkin patch in October. Visit Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory to see rescued big cats (including leopards, cougars and tigers) up close. For a stellar experience, head to Powell Observatory for public stargazing through one of the region’s largest telescopes (Saturdays, May–October). Somerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery, located in Paola, Kan., is a 160-acre, family-owned vineyard producing handcrafted, Kansas-grown wines like Buffalo Red and Oktoberfest. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 15
e c n a m o R
IN THE AIR
G R E AT D AT E S F O R C O U P L E S I N K C Need to rekindle the romance with your significant other? Check out these great ideas to help you do just that!
A day trip up to Excelsior Springs, Mo., is a great romantic outing! Start your day at Willow Spring Mercantile with lunch in their bistro/wine cellar. You can’t go wrong with any of their menu items, but you should definitely try the open-faced curry apple tuna melt—it’s delicious! After lunch, browse their store, which has the world’s largest selection of Missouri wines. They also carry Missouri-made distilled spirits, craft beers, coffee, tea, gifts, kitchen items and gourmet foods. Next, head to Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery for a wine tasting and wine cave tour. Part of the tasting is done in the cave by candlelight, which makes for a romantic atmosphere (I recommend taking another layer of clothing, as it gets chilly). You might also consider staying the night at Payne Jailhouse Bed and Breakfast, where three of the rooms are located in what used to be a jailhouse in the 1920s–50s. Or consider The Elms Hotel & Spa, which has been open for more than 135 years and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 16 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
The Elms Hotel & Spa
Prime Social
For one of the best romantic outings, spend an evening at the Country Club Plaza and take a stroll to see all the beautiful architecture, including the most famous fountain in Kansas City, Mill Creek Park Fountain. After that, walk over to Brush Creek for a gondola ride with Ambiance on the Water—they are generally open from Apr. 1 – Oct. 31 and have a number of packages to choose from. To cap off your night, stop in at one of the Plaza’s many restaurants for a late dinner or a cocktail. I highly recommend Prime Social, a swanky 16th-floor rooftop cocktail lounge. They have half-price sushi on Tuesdays, and it’s amazing! The ginger chicken meatballs and 24 Carrot Cake Truffles (with edible gold!) are some of my other favorites. And the cocktails are first-rate. If you are at the Plaza around the holidays, be sure to take in the 15 blocks of beautiful lights. It’s a sight to behold! Parkville, Mo., is a little town nestled next to the Missouri River that has charming shops and restaurants and is certainly worth a few hours of your day. For a delightful lunch, grab some picnic fixings and find a perfect spot to kick back at English Landing Park. Or, if a restaurant is more up your alley, head to lunch at Cafe des Amis, a French restaurant on Main Street. I recommend sitting on their beautiful patio if the weather is nice. Their crepes, quiche and mussels are just some of the many great choices on their menu. After lunch, head over to Rochester Brewing for a craft beer or coffee in an old train car!
For a romantic and adventurous dinner, head to Corvino, a fine dining restaurant in the Crossroads featuring small plates. I recommend ordering several plates to sample, including foods you think you don’t like—something with caviar, tofu or mushrooms, perhaps? And whatever you do, you’ve got to try the seaweed donuts—they were featured in the 2022 New York Times article “25 Restaurant Dishes We Couldn’t Stop Thinking About This Year.” If you want something a little more traditional, Corvino’s burger is top-notch. After you fill your stomach, go enjoy their new cocktail lounge, Songbird, or take a three-minute walk over to Green Lady Lounge for drinks, jazz and a romantic, speakeasy-ish vibe.
City Market
A visit to the City Market on a sunny Saturday can be wonderfully romantic as you stroll around hand-in-hand taking in all the market has to offer. For over 160 years, this place has been a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike. You can find produce, flowers, local goods, spices, shops and restaurants. And it’s not uncommon to see musicians and other street performers sharing their talents. Must-stop places include City Market Coffee House for a shot of caffeine and a breakfast sandwich; Carollo’s for amazing Italian cookies; and Tikka House to stock up on your favorite spices or one of their special blends.
Driftwood Ceramics
For something more active but still romantic, try a “maker date.” Driftwood Ceramics in North Kansas City, Mo., offers a pottery-making class on Friday and Saturday nights called Pots and Pints, where you can learn how to make a cup, bowl or plate while sipping on a pint of beer or glass of wine. It’s challenging and surprisingly therapeutic. Another great choice is Creative Culture in Westport, Mo., where they offer a variety of self-guided craft projects, including wreath-making, a plant bar, paint-your-own pottery, wood projects and more—plus over-the-top milkshakes that are perfect for sharing and a splatter studio where you can make a mess with your art. At Embers Candle Bar in Lee’s Summit, Mo., you and your sweetie can enjoy a pouryour-own candle experience. You’ll choose a candle jar, 2–3 scents and corresponding oils to concoct your perfect blend. You can pour one as a couple or double your fun by each making your own. Either way, you’ll go home with a wonderful souvenir of your date night.
Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives with her husband in Kansas City. They enjoy regular date nights and love trying new restaurants and activities.
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 17
Science City at Union Station
our favorite
STEM-INSPIRED field trips
Science City at Union Station Science City has been named one of the country’s top 25 science centers—and with good reason! This local marvel allows you and your child to explore, discover and create in its 50+ hands-on stations. Dig for dinosaur fossils at the Dig Site, then check in with professional paleontologists at the Dino Lab; unpack the human genome in Genetics: Unlocking the Code; and discover how levers and pulleys work at the outdoor Simple Machines at Play exhibit. Even the youngest guests have room to explore in the Tot Lot, an area designated for safe toddler play. As you plan your excursion, visit both Science 18 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
City’s and Union Station’s websites to find information about upcoming special programs and events. Consider registering online for an upcoming group workshop where educators bring science to life in a whole new way! (Note: Workshops have an additional fee.) Science City is one of our family favorites because it has something for every age.
stars, constellations, black holes, and outer space; the Theater for Young America brings talent to the stage through productions of literary classics; and the five-story-tall Extreme Screen Theater shows current blockbusters in both 2D and 3D. After a day of educational fun, sit back, relax and let the show begin!
Pro Tip: Science City isn’t the only attraction to call Union Station home. It also houses three theaters, allowing audiences of all ages to experience live shows as well as media presentations. The Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium provides four different shows covering
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Sprawling over 200 acres, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 1,700 animals, making it one of the city’s largest and most affordable family edu-tainment destinations. I love that my family can take a trip around the
world without ever leaving town as we explore the Asia, Africa and Australia sections within the zoo’s grounds. And walking isn’t the only way to take in the sights and sounds! My boys love hopping aboard a tram or train ride, taking a spin on the Endangered Species Carousel or flying high above the Serengeti on the Sky Safari. We can get an up-close-and-personal view of curious, cuddly and fierce animals at Polar Bear Plunge, Stingray Bay, Helzberg Penguin Plaza and the Discovery Barn. And don’t forget to check out the shows! Sea lions strut their stuff at Sea Lion Splash while feathered friends put on a dazzling display at Flights of Fancy! Pro Tip: Wear a pedometer to track all those steps you’ll get in; sport comfortable walking shoes (your feet will thank you!); don a baseball cap or sunglasses; and don’t forget the sunscreen! Bringing a little one? Don’t forget to pack a baby carrier or stroller (or if you’re packing light, simply rent a stroller at Guest Services). We prefer to bring our own sack lunches, snacks and water bottles (note: glass containers and alcoholic beverages are not allowed) to enjoy at one of the various outdoor picnic areas. Those looking for a special dining experience or a pickme-up snack can choose from one of eight on-site dining options.
Pro Tip: Guests can also visit the adjacent William N. Deramus III Cosmology Theater, which features a Space Telescope Science Institute research series entitled View Space. It also features various segments about Earth’s environment and natural disasters. Shows are approximately ten minutes long and are presented using state-of-the-art technology, including a 114-inch display screen, a 1080i projector and a stunning sound system. Library guests may also enjoy the urban arboretum, which boasts a peony garden and over 300 trees (including 12 Champion trees!).
Wonderscope The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City has been a local fixture since 1989. Its location and programs have changed over the years, but one thing has remained the same: its mission of providing quality STEM-driven educational opportunities to Kansas City children and families. In 2020, Wonderscope developed an impressive 30,000-square-foot indoor facility and a sprawling half-acre outdoor adventure space. My younger two are entranced with Kansas City’s transportation history
when they hop aboard the riverboat, railroad car and horse-drawn wagon at the Crossroads of Past & Future exhibit. Guests can splash and discover more about the City of Fountains’ rivers and waterways at Water Works. And what parent doesn’t love watching the imaginative play as their kiddos whip up orders in the KC Cafe or make a grocery run to the WonderMart? Pro Tip: Wonderscope provides open-ended play experiences, but they also offer a full schedule of programs and events. Check out their website to find a comprehensive listing of classes, such as Movement & Music, Circle Time, and Art Explorer. I appreciate that I can bring snacks or a picnic lunch when we visit. (There is no cafe on-site; however, vending machines are available in the designated Picnic Zone.) Also note that if the museum reaches capacity, they may pause guest entry to ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone inside.
Lauren Greenlee is a KC mom of four who enjoyed many of these STEMinspired destinations as a child. She now enjoys experiencing them sideby-side with her own crew.
Linda Hall Library In the heart of Kansas City, Mo., sits the world’s largest privately funded library of science, technology and engineering: the Linda Hall Library. Gifted by the late Herbert and Linda Hall, the library is situated atop a 14-acre arboretum on the campus of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Patrons will find some of the most comprehensive life science, physical science, engineering and technology collections here, as well as educational programs, ongoing lecture series, exhibits and events. Because the library is a nonprofit institution, admission is free to the general public.
Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City KCGOINGPLACES.COM 19
Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum
K
A HISTORY LOVER’S GUIDE TO KC ansas City has much to offer those who are passionate about history, including parents, educators and children! Check out the following museums and attractions for some unforgettable journeys through local and national history.
An iconic monument of the Kansas City skyline since 1926, Liberty Memorial boasts the National World War I Museum and Memorial, a world-class museum dedicated to teaching the history of the Great War and its impact on our nation and the world. Currently, the museum has several special exhibits, including “Sacred Service,” a detailed look into the religious servicemen who ministered to troops on all sides of the conflict; and “Votes and Voices,” a peek into women’s history during World War I and how women’s experiences shaped the nation. I also highly recommend purchasing an extra ticket for the immersive virtual reality experience “Choctaw Code Talkers 1918.” Presented in XR360, viewers (who must be age 10+) will be transported to France in 1918 as soldiers from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma help turn the tide of the war by communicating over battlefield phones in their native language. After exploring all that the museum has to offer, be sure to head across the street to Kansas City’s grand Union Station. Visitors can see the construction of this historic landmark unfold at visual kiosks throughout
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the beautifully restored building. My kids enjoy wandering through the Model Train Exhibit off the Grand Plaza, then heading outside to the Freight House Bridge to watch the trains roar below them on the tracks. Before heading home, check out the lesser-known National Archives housed next door to Union Station. There, you can delve deeper into your own genealogy or visit the superb “We the People” exhibit, which chronicles our nation’s civic history while also highlighting the common American experience. A gem of the 18th & Vine district, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is must-visit piece of Kansas City history. In 2006, it was officially designated by the U.S. Congress as “America’s National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.” It is dedicated to telling the story of Black baseball and ensuring every generation can celebrate its importance in American sports as well as its impact on society—and much of the story took place right here in Kansas City. Also located in the same historic building is the American Jazz Museum, a popular destination for both musicians and historians.
Shawnee Town 1929 opens for the season each March. As usual, it has a great calendar of events planned for the year. At the popular “History on Tap” lecture series, adults can enjoy a local brew while learning something new about our local history. Stop in at the Farmhouse, where you can see varying period food preparation demonstrations throughout the season. And on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the summer, check out the always-popular Time Travelers Children’s Program, where kids can learn a new period craft, participate in farm chores or enjoy special events! My kids love feeding the chickens and helping harvest the bounties from the working garden. My favorite summer program is the outdoor series “Jammin’ on the Green,” which highlights local jazz musicians. Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site is another great place for children to immerse themselves in the history of our region. Mahaffie offers a plethora of living history programs for young and old alike. Visitors can take a ride on a real stagecoach and relive the days when the Farmstead was a stop along the Sante Fe, Oregon and California Trails. They can also watch the blacksmith at work, or sample a meal that would have been prepared for stagecoach passengers in the cool basement kitchen that doubled as a dining hall. Mahaffie offers many homeschool programs throughout the year, so be sure to check out the calendar of events on their website. I especially loved stepping back in time at the “A Toast to General Washington” evening hosted for Presidents Day. A trip to the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Mo., is a must. In the summer of 2021, the Truman Library reopened after a major renovation and upgrade. The focus of the updated
Shawnee Town 1929
museum is on a cinematic immersion into U.S. and world history. Tru History is a sound-and-light theater production that relates some of the most dramatic chapters of WWI and Cold War history in a new and exciting medium. The museum exhibitions include more than 230 artifacts and hundreds of documents, letters and facsimiles. Other features include a 14-foot interactive globe, a role-playing Cold War game and exhibits on Truman’s family life and legacy. Truman was a longtime resident of Independence, and you can visit his home, which became known as the “Summer White House.” After President Truman’s death, his wife entrusted the home to the National Park Service to preserve, protect and educate future Americans. Pro tip: be sure to purchase tickets for the Truman Home at the nearby Visitors Center—a Park Ranger will then walk over with your group for the tour. About an hour outside Kansas City is Atchison, Kan., birthplace of the legendary Amelia Earhart. Within easy driving distance of the metro, fans can visit Earhart’s childhood home or discover more about her life and aviation legacy at the new Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, located at the Amelia Earhart Memorial Airport. Opened in 2023, the Hangar Museum’s main attraction is the world’s last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E, which is identical to the aircraft Earhart was piloting when she tragically and mysteriously disappeared in 1937. The museum also boasts fourteen interactive STEM exhibits that will take visitors on a fascinating journey through Earhart’s life and accomplishments.
Margaret Bristow is a Kansas City native with a passion for local history and sharing that history with her family.
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historical Site
Harry S. Truman’s Home
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 21
Art
ADVENTURES
My kids are always eager to dive into arts and crafts projects at home. Whether it’s painting, building with Play Doh or experimenting with beads, their excitement over every new craft is contagious. I love seeing their imaginations come to life in our living room, but I’ve also realized how important it is to spark their creativity outside the house. Kansas City offers so many opportunities to do just that. From high-tech maker spaces to interactive puppetry and public art tours, our city is full of artistic adventures that bring families together. Each outing has inspired new projects back at home, and I’m thrilled to share some of our favorite experiences. Whether your family loves crafting, experimenting with new technologies or discovering colorful murals, these adventures inspire young and old alike. Dive into this guide to find the best art adventures KC has to offer!
Hawaii Fluid Art: Letting Creativity Flow My family recently discovered Hawaii Fluid Art (locations in Overland Park, Kan., and Kansas City, Mo.), and it’s quickly become one of our favorite creative escapes. This unique art studio offers workshops where families can create mesmerizing fluid art pieces
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together. The process involves pouring vibrant, swirling paints onto canvases to create stunning abstract designs. I was amazed at how easy it was for even my youngest to participate—there’s no need for prior artistic experience. During our visit, we each chose our own color palettes and let our imaginations run wild. My kids loved watching the paints flow and blend as they created their own masterpieces to take home. The staff was incredibly patient and guided us through every step of the process, ensuring we all felt confident and had fun. It was such a joy to see my children’s pride in their finished artwork. If you’re looking for a hands-on art adventure where the entire family can unleash their creativity, Hawaii Fluid Art is a must-visit destination.
Black & Veatch MakerSpace: Creative Innovation Located inside the Johnson County Central Resource Library in Overland Park, the Black & Veatch MakerSpace provides an incredible variety of tools and technology to bring your family’s ideas to life. Although my kids haven’t had the chance to try out 3D printing or digital design software yet, I was amazed by the range of possibilities. The space features everything from
Black & Veatch MakerSpace
laser cutting and sewing machines to soldering stations and vinylcutting tools. The MakerSpace also hosts workshops for beginners, offering families the chance to learn skills like sewing or 3D modeling together. The staff was friendly and ready to answer questions, ensuring everyone felt welcome. MakerSpace access is free, with nominal fees for materials, making it a fantastic resource for fostering creativity and learning something new. Pro Tip: If it’s your first visit, take a guided tour of the Black & Veatch MakerSpace to learn about all the equipment and how to use it. Don’t forget to reserve tools online ahead of time as they can be in high demand, especially on weekends. It’s a great way to maximize your creative time!
The KC Streetcar Art Tour: A Moving Gallery Hop aboard the KC Streetcar for a one-of-a-kind art experience that combines urban exploration with creative inspiration. The KC Streetcar Art Tour transforms your family outing into a dynamic journey through Kansas City’s vibrant public art scene. Along the 2.2-mile route, the streetcar stops at several key locations featuring murals, sculptures and installations that showcase the city’s rich artistic talent. Highlights include the stunning Crossroads Arts District,
where walls come alive with colorful street art, and Union Station, home to impressive sculptures and rotating exhibits. The streetcar itself often displays temporary art installations, making the ride a moving gallery. Best of all, the KC Streetcar is free, making this an accessible and enriching adventure for families looking to spark creativity and enjoy the city’s cultural heartbeat. Pro Tip: Make the art tour even more engaging for kids by turning it into a scavenger hunt! Challenge them to spot specific details in murals or identify recurring themes, like animals or bright colors. It’s a fun way to keep them entertained while deepening their appreciation for art.
Puppetry Arts Institute: Bringing Stories to Life Nestled in Independence, Mo., Puppetry Arts Institute is a magical destination where creativity and imagination take center stage. Families can enjoy interactive puppet shows, participate in hands-on workshops and even craft their own puppets to bring home. During our visit, my kids were mesmerized by a shadow puppetry performance, and they couldn’t wait to try their hand at making their own characters. This unique institute fosters storytelling and creativity, offering a variety of performances and classes for kids and adults alike.
Puppetry Arts Institute
Pro Tip: Try the $10 puppet-painting workshop or the $12 take-home kit for a fun and creative experience! Experiment with different textures like fabric, yarn and buttons along with paint to make your puppet truly one-of-a-kind and spark endless imaginative play.
Ceramic Cafe: Where Creativity and Fun Come Together Ceramic Cafe is a paint-your-ownpottery and glass fusing studio that provides a fun, hands-on experience of art. Kids (and adults) will love choosing from a wide selection of ceramic pieces to paint, including plates, mugs and animal figurines. You can also try glass fusing projects with easy, colorful designs. Pro Tip: Walk-ins are welcome, so this is a perfect last-minute art adventure for a rainy day. No matter your family’s interests, Kansas City’s vibrant arts scene has something to offer everyone. From experimenting with cutting-edge technology at maker spaces to exploring public art and puppetry, these activities bring creativity to life in unique and exciting ways. I’ve cherished the moments of watching my kids’ faces light up as they discover and create. Take the time to explore these opportunities together, and you’ll create cherished memories while inspiring your children’s imaginations. Allie Cole, a Lenexa, Kan. resident and mother of two young girls, enjoys sparking creativity through hands-on activities with her family.
Ceramic Cafe KCGOINGPLACES.COM 23
TOURING KC’S
Sweet Treats Kate Smith Soirée
Sweet Caroline’s
Sylas and Maddy’s
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Popculture Gourmet Popcorn & Ice Cream
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ce cream and cookies and cakes, oh my! If you’ve lived in the KC metro for long, you know we’re not short on places to grab a sweet treat. The area is filled with fun and unique spots to satisfy any craving!
While you’re shopping in downtown Overland Park, Kan., or strolling through the Overland Park Farmer’s Market, be sure to check out chef-owned Popculture Gourmet Popcorn & Ice Cream. Popculture offers traditional flavors of popcorn like kettle corn, butter and caramel, but also unique gourmet flavors such as Dr. Pepper with Vanilla, Wing Night and Fried Pickle. There’s even a tasting wall with almost 40 different flavors where we tried to find a favorite. Be on the lookout for special seasonal flavors that change almost monthly. They also offer vegan, gluten-free and dye-free popcorns! If popcorn and ice cream aren’t your jam, head over to Kate Smith Soirée, also located in downtown Overland Park. Kate offers an extensive range of French macarons, fully customizable with any color and flavor. She also does wedding cakes and takes custom orders for all kinds of baked goods, from scones, to cake pops, to brownies and more! Lauren Evans, Overland Park mom of three, says, “My daughter and I will stop in occasionally for a treat, and we just love the charming, small-shop feel. The decor is super cute, and the pink flower wall is awesome for photo ops! The wide variety of pastry items is delicious, and there are so many different flavors of macarons!” To top it off, tea parties are offered every Sunday. You can find more info at KateSmithSoiree.com/Tea-Parties. Pro tip: They book up every weekend, so make your reservation early! Sweet Caroline’s, located in the Stanley Station shopping center in Overland Park, is a quaint local, family-owned sweets shop that is
sure to satisfy. Here we found some popular bulk and nostalgia candy, homemade fudge, chocolate treats and hand-dipped caramel apples. Their large, hand-dipped chocolatecovered strawberries are a hot item, but are only available during Valentine’s week. They also serve locally-made Sylas & Maddy’s ice cream (in case you can’t make it to one of their stores!). Sylas and Maddy’s, located in Olathe, Kan., and Lawrence, Kan., is family-owned and -operated since 1997. All their ice creams, as well as their waffle cones, are made fresh in-house daily. Of the 150 flavors, our kids enjoyed the traditional options, but especially loved the one-of-akind options, like Mahomes Magic and Sunday Funday! Pro tip: If you’re creative enough to come up with your own flavor, they’ll even take customer suggestions! New to the sweet treat scene in 2019, One More Scoop, located in Belton, Mo., and Kansas City, Mo., quickly made an impression with their homemade ice cream. Our family found old standby flavors like vanilla bean and strawberry, but also more unique options like Panther Tracks and Mama’s Texas Sheet Cake. Keep in mind that flavors are switched up regularly, so a flavor you’re craving may not always be offered. But hey, the worst that happens is you have to go back, right? They have gluten-free, nut-free and dairy-free options too! The Golden Scoop, originally opened in 2021 at 95th & Nall, has a new location! Just off 103rd & 69 Hwy. in Overland Park, The Golden Scoop serves up homemade ice cream, as
well as baked goods, delicious drinks and fabulous service! The Golden Scoop is a nonprofit cafe that employs people of all abilities. Their newest location features a much larger dining area, a drivethru and a sensory room for their “super scoopers” to take a break. While the treats are yummy, it’s the service and joyful atmosphere that will keep us coming back! If you happen to be playing at Lake Olathe or Ernie Miller Nature Center this summer, pop into Sweet Thang & Cafe in west Olathe. With ice cream and sundaes as well as warm sandwiches to choose from, our family had no trouble finding something tasty. They offer 42 ice cream flavors, with specialty options like Bear Claw, Superman and Purple Cow, as well as more traditional flavors and a couple of non-dairy flavors. Lynsey, Olathe mom of three, says, “The kids and I try a different ice cream every time we stop in. We’ve liked them all! The Mama’s Italian sammie is good too!” Pro tip: You can also order online for pickup or delivery. Looking to get those creative juices flowing? Head into Creative Culture for a little DIY project and a gourmet milkshake. With flavor options like strawberry cheesecake, birthday cake and s’mores, this is a milkshake like no other! All shakes are served in a mason jar that we got to take home, along with the DIY project we chose. Many project options are available for different ages and price points. Drop in the next time you are in downtown Kansas City, Mo., or check out the Park Place location in Leawood, Kan.!
Julie Collett writes from Overland Park, and isn’t sad about trying out any of these sweet treat places! KCGOINGPLACES.COM 25
Kaleidoscope
DIY SOUVENIRS
IN KANSAS CITY
Magnets, ornaments and T-shirts make nice souvenirs. But some of my favorite keepsakes are ones my family has made themselves. Whether you’re planning a staycation or visiting the City of Fountains for the very first time, KC is home to a myriad of attractions where you can make your own souvenirs. Here are some of my favorites: Make Your Own Puzzle at Kaleidoscope Kaleidoscope is the brainchild of Don Hall, son of Hallmark founder J.C. Hall. When Don noticed how much his kids enjoyed playing with materials left over from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes, he set up a traveling exhibit in 1969 that would eventually settle into its present-day home at Hallmark’s Crown Center. For over fifty years, guests have been making memories by designing and cutting their own puzzles, creating watercolor masterpieces and making 26 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
out-of-this-world artwork out of melted crayons. Both my husband and I visited Kaleidoscope as children, and we get a sense of nostalgia taking our own kids. Art sessions are free but reservations are required. Pro Tip: Wear art-friendly clothes (or bring your own smock!). Make Your Own Bow at the Hallmark Visitor Center Right next door to Kaleidoscope, guests can discover Hallmark’s rich, 100+ year history at Hallmark’s
Visitor Center. Fascinating exhibits, interactive displays and a small theater showcase the company’s rags-to-riches legacy. Learn about the company’s ever-evolving media empire, check out J.C. Hall’s custom Christmas tree collection, and stop by the bow machine where, with the press of a button, you can create a star-shaped bow to take home as a memento. Admission is free (groups of 15+ require reservations). Pro Tip: Enjoy free two-hour parking with validation.
Strike Gold at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead One of Overland Park’s greatest treasures is Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. For close to fifty years, this local institution has given children a taste of turn-of-the-century farm life right in the middle of the ’burbs. More exciting than a park but less daunting than a sprawling zoo, the farmstead is the perfect place for my family when we’re on a timeline (or when my preschooler prefers to walk!). Guests can hit the books with a real schoolmarm in a one-room school house, observe cows being milked, bottle-feed baby goats, and fish with an old-school reed pole and night crawlers. You can also purchase a sweet treat such as saltwater taffy or hand-scooped ice cream as you browse the shops in the small town square. Want to grow your farm history knowledge? Grab a passbook at Ben’s Bank and visit the discovery stations throughout the farmstead. Once you’ve answered all the questions, take your booklet back to the bank and redeem it for a prize. And don’t forget to pan for gems at the Mining Shack! Visitors leave with an impressive collection of colorful stones.
Make Your Own Soap There’s nothing more luxurious than a bar of handmade soap, but making it at home can be a laborious process. Take the guesswork out of the equation by learning from the experts at Natural Farm Soap Co. in Blue Springs, Mo. Participants in their soapmaking classes receive an instructional booklet, oils, fragrances and colorant to make a pound of their own custom soap bars. After going over safety guidelines, the instructor will teach you to make soap the traditional way with oil blends and lye solution.
Pro Tip: Bring a bag of quarters to buy animal feed and to activate the player piano in the mercantile!
Pro Tip: Your instructor will cover the topics of lye safety, fat-cutting, molding, natural additives and curing.
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Whip Up A Culinary Masterpiece One of my favorite birthday treats was taking a cinnamon roll class at the Culinary Center of Kansas City. Not only was the class fun and engaging, but the instruction was top-notch. I still use my notes from that class anytime I bake cinnamon rolls at home. Like his mama, my fifteen-year-old is quite the foodie, so for his birthday, he received a Culinary Center gift card to take a class of his choice. Classes are available for every age range, experience level and palate. Guests learn from expert instructors and get to enjoy the fruit of their labors (and there’s nothing better than leaving with a box full of goodies you made yourself!). Pro Tip: The Upper Crust, Penzeys and the Overland Park Farmers market are all within walking distance, making for a day full of foodie fun!
Natural Farm Soap Co.
Lauren Greenlee is a proud boymom of four who loves longdistance travel, weekend getaways and staycations in the City of Fountains alike! KCGOINGPLACES.COM 27
FREE
KC Streetcar Photo by MEdwardsPhoto.com
AND CHEAP FUN IN KC
Are you looking for budget-friendly ways to explore Kansas City? Whether you’re local or just visiting, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy all the city has to offer.
JOHNSON COUNTY If you find yourself in Johnson County, one of your first stops should be Scheels in Overland Park, Kan. You’ll find a little bit of everything there, including a free play area for kids and a Ferris wheel that only costs $1 to ride. Afterward, enjoy some fresh air at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which is free for adults on the first Tuesday of each month and free for children under 5 daily. If you’re looking for another nature experience, visit the Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe, Kan. You’ll have the opportunity to see a 500-gallon aquarium, learn about a variety of plants and watch birds as they come to the feeders. They even offer preschool story times for $3 per person and a Sunday family nature series for $5 per person. Do you want to see some adorable animals? If so, make a trip to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, where admission only costs $5 per person for ages 3 and up and is free for children under 2. If you happen to be there in the afternoon Mon.–Thurs., admission is free for everyone after 2:00. 28 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
If you’re looking for an indoor spot to visit, head over to the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center. For $4–6 you can walk through the 1950s All-Electric House or check out the KidScape area where children can have several pretend play experiences.
a walking trail, a playground, fountains, the Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden and more! For even more beautiful nature, head over to Kauffman Memorial Garden, where you can see a wide variety of beautiful blooms.
NORTHLAND PLAZA If you’re looking for a great shopping experience in addition to beautiful architecture, make sure to visit the Country Club Plaza. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers free admission and includes a beautiful outdoor sculpture park featuring the iconic shuttlecocks. Less than a 10-minute drive from the Nelson is Jacob L. Loose Park, which has
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
If you’ve ever wanted to see live bison, make sure you visit the Shoal Creek Living History Museum in Liberty, Mo., which is open daily with free admission. The museum is nestled in Hodge Park, so you’ll be close to a walking trail and a playground. In North Kansas City, Mo., Macken Park offers a one-mile walking trail and two playgrounds. In the heart of the Northland, Zona Rosa has several restaurants and shops, as well as free seasonal events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals and rallies. During the summer, kids can also enjoy their splash pad for free. For a quaint small-town experience, visit Historic Downtown Parkville, Mo., or Historic Downtown Liberty. Both areas are perfect for strolling, windowshopping and enjoying local restaurants. If you’re in Parkville, you have to visit the free Parkville Nature Sanctuary or English Landing Park, which features three miles of walking trails, a playground, sand volleyball, pickleball courts and a disc golf course.
DOWNTOWN
Kansas City Metropolitan Area
Downtown Kansas City, Mo., offers City Metropolitan Area the map coordinates to help yourKansas itinerary. Each listing in KC Going Places includes plenty of free and inexpensive experiences. Use this map to helpUseplan this map to help plan your tourism itinerary. Each listing in KC Going Places includes the map coordinates you find the nearby attractions! For instance, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium (p. 68) is located at C4 on this map. to help you find the nearby attractions! For instance, Kansas City Zoo (p. 68) is located at C4 on this map. The Hallmark Visitors Center, Kaleidoscope and the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City provide fun for all ages at no cost. Be sure to take advantage of the free KC Streetcar to easily get from one place to another. If you’re exploring with children, stop by the Kansas City Public Library’s Central Branch. The children’s floor offers a fun and engaging space, and the rooftop terrace has a stunning view of the city. Farther south, Union Station offers free admission, and while many exhibits require paid tickets, the Model Train Gallery is entirely free. Afterward, head to the lawn at the National WWI Museum and Memorial for one of Kansas City’s most iconic views. Need a caffeine break while you’re downtown? Stop by The Roasterie on 27th Check out KCParent.com Street. While you’re there, take a $5 factory 49 for exact venue locations, interactive tour to see how their coffee is made. maps and more! B
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Leavenworth
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Taylor Seidel is a toddler mom who enjoys exploring and searching for the best kid-friendly places and activities in the Kansas City area. You can follow Taylor on Instagram at @kc.mom.adventures for more recommendations.
To The Fun!
VisitLeavenworthKS.com KCGOINGPLACES.COM 29
• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES •
CREATIVE PLACES Ceramic Cafe 9510 Nall, OP, KS 913.383.0222 $ B5 CeramicCafeKC.com Ceramic Cafe is a paint-yourown pottery and glass fusing studio welcoming all ages.
Creative Art Glass Station 1900 S. Broadway Oak Grove, MO 816.525.8088 $$ D4 StainedGlassTeacher.com Stained glass and glass fusing classes.
Creative Culture KC 207 Westport Rd., KC, MO 816.569.3445 $$
Embers Candle Bar
LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4) KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
GO CREATE
Paint, Sew and Make ADHDIY Craft Cafe 1501 W. 12th St., KC, MO $$ C3 ADHDIYCraftCafe.com Space for exploring activities, learning new crafts and developing new hobbies.
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A Touch of Creativity Art Studio 12904 W. 87th St. Pkwy., OP, KS 913.609.5057 $$ B3 Facebook.com/aTouchoFun Painting and art classes for all ages.
AR Workshop 111 NE 91st St., KC, MO 816.837.0727 $$ C2 ARWorkshop.com Boutique DIY workshop offers hands-on classes to create charming and custom decor, wood signs, canvas pillows and more.
Board & Brush Creative Studio 13970 Santa Fe Trail Dr. Lenexa, KS 913.298.9570 $$ A4 BoardAndBrush.com/Lenexa DIY workshop for creating unique and personalized wood decor projects from scratch.
C3
5235 W. 116th Pl., Leawood, KS 913.400.3078 $$ B5 CreativeCultureDIY.com A hands-on creative experience featuring workshops from local artisans, drop-in projects, private parties and gifts.
Brookside Ceramics
Driftwood Ceramics
329 E. Gregory Blvd., Ste. A KC, MO 816.522.7729 $ C4 BrooksideCeramics.com Create an original piece of artwork to take home or share as a gift for a loved one.
1827 Buchanan St. North KC, MO 816.841.2925 $ D2 DriftwoodCeramics.com Offers a wide variety of classes and provides an open studio for artists.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Embers Candle Bar
Oak Park Mall: 11465 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.307.0328 B3
315 SE Douglas St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.719.3911 $ D4 EmbersCandleBar.com Embers Candle Bar is a pouryour-own fragrance and candle experience. Define your fragrance.
Zona Rosa: 8660 N. Dixon Ave. KC, MO 816.587.6515 B2 Indep Center: 2095 Independence Ctr. Dr. Indep, MO 816.795.5266 D3 BuildABear.com Make your own stuffed animal at Build-A-Bear!
Expressive 500 Armour Rd. North KC, MO 816.919.1502 $ D2 ExpressiveArts.Studio Exploration in art and music offering lessons, classes, parties and more!
• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES • The Fabric Chic
Harper’s Fabrics & Quilt Co.
KC Clay Guild
MOD Gallery
170 English Landing Dr., Ste. 111 Parkville, MO 816.982.9191 $$ B2 TheFabricChic.com An eclectic mix of fabrics and threads as well as classes.
7918 Santa Fe Dr., OP, KS 913.648.2739 $$ B5 HarpersFabricAndQuilt.com Quilting and sewing classes at local shop.
200 W. 74th St., KC, MO 816.363.1373 $ KCClayGuild.org Make your own pottery.
C4
1809 McGee St., KC, MO 913.530.2897 $$ C3 BoomMod.com Fun night out painting classes.
Kreeayt
Orange Easel School of Art
7175 W. 96th St., OP, KS 913.314.2650 $$ B5 GrapesAndPaints.com A social BYOB painting studio.
7270 NW 86th Pl., KC, MO 800.463.3793 $$ B2 HawaiiFluidArt.com Art classes to create a beautiful piece of fluid art!
710 W. Main St., Suite E Blue Springs, MO 816.888.0052 $$ D3 Kreeayt.com Art studio offering classes for all ages.
249 W. Mill, #107 Liberty, MO 816.407.9266
Hammer and Stain
Hook Gallery
Lost Arts Courses
7968 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.735.4542 $$ B5 HammerAndStainKC.com Instructor-guided DIY workshops help you turn a blank project into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
1409B Westport Rd., KC, MO 816.531.4665 $$ C3 HookGallery.com A one-of-a-kind masterpiece made by you.
4 E. Franklin St. Liberty, MO 816.368.1252 $$ D1 LostArtsCourses.com Lost Arts provides live courses in an array of art forms.
Happy Trees Painting Co.
2500 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.8301 Free C3 HallmarkKaleidoscope.com Children create their own unique works of art.
Grapes & Paints
1219 Union Ave., KC, MO 816.616.9905 $$ HappyTreesPainting.com Parties, paints and drinks.
B3
Hawaii Fluid Art Kansas City
Kaleidoscope
The Makery KC 1331 Union Ave., KC, MO 913.742.3092 $$ C3 Facebook.com/TheMakeryKC DIY craft classes are offered.
, Located just North of the River in Kansas City!
$$
C2
7617 NW Prairie View Rd. KC, MO 816.216.7126 $$ B2 OrangeEaselArt.com Children’s art studio dedicated to teaching art in a way that is engaging, relevant and ageappropriate.
Paint, Glaze & Fire 12683 Metcalf Ave. OP, KS 913.661.2529 $ B5 PaintGlazeAndFire.net Paint your own pottery, make your own mosaics or enjoy the coffeehouse.
Jesse Jam
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Excelsior Trolley & Wine Tour
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Your Visit to KC just isn’t complete unless you VisitClayMO! KCGOINGPLACES.COM 31
• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES • Wee Create
Green Dirt Farm
5311 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS 913.721.7477 $$ B3 WeeCreateKC.com An art space created with the smallest artists in mind.
1099 Welt St. Weston, MO 816.386.2156 Free GreenDirtFarm.com Tour the farm.
Wine & Design
Historic Weston Orchard & Vineyard
6058 NW 63rd Ter., KC, MO 816.944.0644 $$ C2 WineAndDesign.com Painting parties and classes.
Zoelee’s Fabrics & Sewing School Culinary Center of Kansas City
Pieces of My Art
Scraps KC
16224 NE 185th St., Holt, MO 816.716.4448 $$ D1 PiecesOfMyArtKC.com Step-by-step painting classes are offered.
3269 Roanoke Rd. KC, MO 816.522.4305 $ C3 ScrapsKC.org Shop the store of unusual items ready for reuse or sign up for a class.
Pinot’s Palette 4817 W. 117th St., Leawood, KS 913.451.7466 $$ B5 11945 S. Strang Line Rd. Olathe, KS 913.732.3768 $$
A5
4165 N. Mulberry Dr., KC, MO 816.492.3772 $$ C2 483 NE Coronado Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.598.0598 $$
D3
PinotsPalette.com An upscale “paint and sip” studio.
The Potter’s Cottage 6210 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO 816.945.7798 $ B2 PottersCottageKC.com Art studio where individuals of all ages can participate in classes and special events.
Potter’s Haven Art Studio 292 SW Blue Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.525.9323 $ D4 PottersHavenArtStudio.com Paint-your-own pottery shop.
Public Glass Works Kansas City 13419 W. 80th Ter., Lenexa, KS 816.898.9003 $$ B4 PublicGlassWorksKC.com Take a class to work with glass. Learn to make marbles or beads as an intro to melting glass. 32 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
The Studio Knitting & Needlepoint 9555 Nall Ave., OP, KS 816.531.4466 $$ TheStudioKC.com Knitting and needlepoint classes and workshops for every skill level.
B5
Sunfire Ceramics 1002 New Hampshire St. Lawrence, KS 785.749.2828 $ A3 SunfireCeramics.com A locally owned pottery painting and glass fusing shop.
Tipsy Red Fox 4915 NW Gateway Ave., Apt 12 Riverside, MO 816.937.7074 $$ C3 TheTipsyRedFox.com A BYOB painting studio.
Unwind Fiber Arts 207 SE 3rd St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.927.5676 $ D4 UnwindFiberArts.com A yarn boutique featuring handdyed and luxury yarn and fiber arts classes.
1329 NE Deer Valley Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.7217 $$ D4 Zoelees.com Classes make sewing fun for any age.
GO EXPERIENCE FOOD Learn to Cook and Watch As Food Is Made
Chip’s Chocolate Factory Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., Ste. 239 KC, MO 816.421.0012 Free C3 ChipsChocolateFactory.com Visit the shop and factory where KC’s very own KC Fudge was developed more than 30 years ago.
Culinary Center of Kansas City 7920 Santa Fe Dr., OP, KS 913.341.4455 $$ B5 KCCulinary.com More than 600 cooking classes offered all year long.
Dream Dinners 6517 W. 119th St., OP, KS 913.491.6733 $$ B5 DreamDinners.com Dream Dinners brings easy, prepped dinners to families.
Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch 650 N. Jefferson St. Kearney, MO 816.628.0028 $ D1 FunFarmPumpkinPatch.com Experience seasonal strawberry picking, pumpkin patch and farm activities for the whole family.
A1
18545 Co. Rd. H Weston, MO 816.640.4013 $ A1 OrchardWeston.com Enjoy a u-pick farm with apples, cherries and pumpkins.
Louisburg Cider Mill 14730 KS 68 Hwy. Louisburg, KS 913.285.5300 $ B5 LouisburgCiderMill.com Watch apples being pressed into cider in the 120-year-old barn.
The Roasterie Inc. 1204 W. 27th St., KC, MO 816.931.4000 $ TheRoasterie.com Tour the coffee company.
C3
Shatto Dairy Farm 9406 N. Hwy. 33 Osborn, MO 816.930.3862 $ ShattoMilk.com Tour the dairy farm.
D1
Taste Buds Kitchen 5336 W. 151st St. Leawood, KS 913.257.5667 $$ B5 TasteBudsKitchen.com Top culinary entertainment experience for kids, families and adults.
Thyme for Everything 229B SE Main St., Ste. B Lee’s Summit, MO 816.554.3755 $$ D4 AThymeForEverything.com Cooking classes taught by local chefs.
Young Chef’s Academy 10082 Woodland Rd. Lenexa, KS 913.764.0077 $ B4 YoungChefsAcademy.com Cooking classes offered for kids.
• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES • GO TO AN ART MUSEUM Museums Celebrate the Arts American Jazz Museum 1616 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.474.8463 $ C3 AmericanJazzMuseum.org Learn about the history of jazz through fun, interactive exhibits perfect for kids.
Belger Arts Center 2100 Walnut St., KC, MO 816.474.7316 Free C3 BelgerArts.com The Belger Arts Center houses a fine art collection and exhibitions. Also workshops in clay and glass.
Crossroads Art District Various Galleries in Downtown KC, MO Free C3 KCCrossroads.org Offers more than 100 art galleries, plus tour for free the first Friday evening of each month.
Epsten Gallery
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Stocksdale Art Gallery
5500 W. 123rd St., Leawood, KS 913.266.8414 Free B5 EpstenGallery.org Innovative art exhibitions and related programming to engage the community through art.
4525 Oak St., KC, MO 816.751.1278 Free C3 Nelson-Atkins.org The museum provides access to everyone to enjoy and contemplate artistic creations from 5,000 years ago to present day from all over the world.
252 William Jewell College Dr. Liberty, MO 816.415.7588 Free D1 Facebook.com/StocksdaleGallery Regional and national artists are featured at William Jewell’s campus art gallery.
Hallmark Visitors Center 2450 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.3613 Free C3 HallmarkVisitorsCenter.com Discover the story of Hallmark through interactive displays and fascinating exhibits.
KC Strings 5842 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS 913.677.0400 $ B4 KCStrings.com Group tours of the stringed instrument shop.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 4420 Warwick Blvd., KC, MO 816.753.5784 Free C3 KemperArt.org This art gallery features free modern art exhibits.
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art 12345 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.469.3000 Free B5 NermanMuseum.org This 41,000-square-foot museum is the largest contemporary art museum in the four-state region.
The Rabbit hOle 919 E. 14th Ave. North KC, MO 816.492.7915 B3 RabbitHoleKC.org The Rabbit hOle is an immersive museum experience dedicated to children’s literature.
21c Museum and Hotel 219 W. 9th St. KC, MO 816.443.4200 Free/$$ C3 21CMuseumHotels.com Visit this free contemporary art gallery housed in a hotel. The museum is free; reservations at the hotel are not.
UMKC Gallery of Art 203 Fine Arts Building 5015 Holmes St. KC, MO 816.235.1502 Free C3 Info.UMKC.edu/gallery The gallery features temporary exhibits on 20th century American and European art.
ADVANCE
ADULT ADMISSION $15 VALUE
PURCHASE AT Missouri State Fair Box Office, Break Time Convenience Stores, Bomgaars, & Family Center Farm & Home
25 $ ADVANCE 37 ADVANCE
$
UNLIMITED CARNIVAL WRISTBAND
$40 VALUE
UNLIMITED DAILY DEAL
$55 VALUE
MOSTATEFAIR.COM
PURCHASE AT Break Time Convenience Stores, Bomgaars, Family Center Farm & Home & mostatefair.com/deals
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 33
• FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES •
FUN PLACES
Legoland Discovery Center
LEGEND:
Aaron’s Family Fun Center
BRKTHROUGH
FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4)
17070 Aaron Ln. Belton, MO 816.322.0488 $ C5 AaronsFEC.com Play outdoor miniature golf and enjoy indoor bowling, outdoor go-karts and volleyball.
6403 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.948.5800 $$ B5 Brkthrough.com Experience 30-plus unique, hightechnology game rooms.
AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk
9240 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.283.7081 $
KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
GO PLAY
Amusement Parks, Arcades and Entertainment Centers 4D Gaming Lounge 6249 Blue Ridge Blvd. Raytown, MO 816.503.6000 $ C3 4DGamingLounge.net Indoor arcade, video games and karaoke fun center. 34 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
16201 Shawnee Dr. OP, KS 913.713.4295 $$ B3 BluHawkSports.com Visit this 420,000-square-foot indoor complex with courts, ice rink, esports, bowling, laser tag, zipline, dining and an arcade.
Arcade Alley 316 SE Douglas St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.272.4246 $$ D4 ArcadeAlley.com A fun ‘80s-’90s-style arcade bar.
Cardboard Corner Cafe B4
8750 Penrose Ln. Lenexa, KS 913.244.1276 $ A4 CardboardCornerKC.com A place for great food and great games.
Chuck E. Cheese
$
B4
15225 W. 134th St. Olathe, KS 913.390.0815 $ A5 ChuckECheese.com Pizza, arcade games and indoor amusement rides.
Coffee Cade 361-A Legend Lane Peculiar, MO 816.620.4648 $ C5 Facebook.com/CoffeeCadeMO A full, coin-operated arcade and eatery with fresh baked goods and drinks.
Collector’s Cache
9196 Skyview Ave., KC, MO 816.505.0902 $
D3
18701 E. 39th St. Indep, MO 816.254.63007
D3
$
10510 Metcalf Ln. OP, KS 913.648.4920
8809 State Line Rd, KC, MO 816.441.7570 B4
13354 College Blvd. Lenexa, KS 913.338.2273 $ B4 CollectorsCache.com Collector’s Cache sells quality cards, toys and other various collectibles.
• FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • Cool Crest
Draftcade
Game Cafe
High Performance Paintball
10735 E. US Hwy. 40, Indep, MO 816.358.0088 $ D3 CoolCrest.com Miniature golf, video games, go-karts and more!
7260 NW 87th St., KC, MO 816.759.3474 $$ B2 Draftcade.com Arcade restaurant and bar for adults.
Craft Putt
Drop Zone Paintball
107 W. Lexington Ave. Indep., MO 816.252.7529 $ PlayGameCafe.com Board games, card games, tabletop games, RPG and event halls.
1500 Sandy Links Ln. Harrisonville, MO 816.868.5675 $ C5 HighPerformancePaintball.net Outdoor paintball field with 10-plus acres and three varying paintball fields and terrain.
11440 W 135th St. OP, KS 913.229.4454 $$ B5 CraftPutt.com An indoor mini golf taphouse.
1224 N. 1st Rd. Overbrook, KS 785.841.1884 $ A3 DropZonePaintball.com Outdoor paintball fields offer excitement.
Dave & Buster’s The Legends at Village West: 1843 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.981.6815 $ A3 6811 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.249.3900 $ B5 DaveAndBusters.com Arcade games, shuffleboard and billiards.
Double Tap KC 310 Oak St., KC, MO 816.800.4001 $ C3 DoubleTapKC.com A virtual reality arcade and pub.
FlipSwitch VR 2021 Washington St., Suite C KC, MO 816.492.7738 $$ B2 FlipSwitchVR.com With state-of-the-art wireless technology and motion tracking, we take you inside the game where your body is the controller and your mind believes it’s real.
D3
Game Show Battle Rooms
Howl-in-One Mini Golf
10520 Metcalf OP, KS 913.350.1819 $$ B4 GameShowBattleRooms.com Face off against your friends, family and coworkers in our custom game show arenas.
Great Wolf Lodge: 10401 Cabela Dr. KC, KS 913.299.7001 $ GreatWolfLodge.com Outdoor miniature golf.
Geekery 12616 W. 62nd Ter. #117 Shawnee, KS 913.261.9694 $ B3 Geekery.biz Tabletop game shop with free demos and play space.
A3
Jaegers Paintball Park 9300 NE Underground Dr. KC, MO 816.452.6600 $ C2 Jaegers.com Underground paintball field and laser tag is set in one of KC’s oldest limestone mines.
Where fun
TAKES FLIGHT! With attractions that cater to any level of adventurer, there’s something fun for everyone. Both locations now open
UrbanAirLenexa.com
8554 Maurer Road • Lenexa, KS 66219 • (913) 359-5800
UrbanAirOverlandPark.com
14401 Metcalf Ave • Overland Park, KS 66223 • (913) 298-0626
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 35
• FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • Power Play 509 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO 816.268.4386 $ C1 PowerPlayKC.com Rides, laser tag, whirly ball, arcade games, bowling, go-karts and more.
Puttery 612 W. 47th St., KC, MO 816.710.0396 $$ C3 Puttery.com Miniature golf course in Kansas City, Missouri
ReRoll Tavern 2368 Armour Rd., KC, MO 816.800.7501 $ ReRollTavern.com Board games, RPGs, drinks, bites and pop-ups.
B3
Rock Island Bridge
Worlds of Fun
KC Wheel
Ludo’s Shuffleboard
Parkville Mini Golf
2485 Jefferson St., KC, MO 816.608.6918 $$ C3 KCWheel.com The KC Wheel, a 150-foot observation wheel, offers guests unprecedented views of downtown Kansas City.
325 E. 31st St., KC, MO 816.769.4335 $$ C3 LudosShuffleboard.com Family-friendly venue with shuffleboard, arcade games, board games and card games, and a great space to socialize.
7 W. 1st St., Parkville, MO 816.505.9555 $ B2 ParkvilleMiniGolf.com Outdoor miniature golf course is set on the Missouri River bluffs.
KingCade
Main Event
11477 W 95th St., OP, KS 913.400.2500 $ B3 Arcade and gaming lounge.
11950 S. Kansas City Rd. Olathe, KS 913.768.4444 $-$$
Larks
8081 NW Roanridge Rd., KC, MO 816.281.2020 $-$$ B2
613 Walnut St., KC, MO 816.299.4773 $ C3 PawnsAndPints.com A board game pub with a vast collection of games for every interest.
1527 W. 9th St., KC, MO 202.234.7336 $$ C3 LarksKansasCity.com A shuffleboard-themed bar and eatery. Also, enjoy The Larkade, a cutting-edge arcade where retro charm meets modern tech.
4600 S. Cochise Ct. Indep, MO 816.350.1000 $-$$ D3 MainEvent.com Bowling, billiards, laser tag, ropes obstacle course, video games and more.
LevelUp Arena 1800 Genesee St. KC, MO 816.253.8636 $ C3 LevelUpArena.gg LevelUp Arena is the only dedicated esports space in the Midwest.
36 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
A5
Mission: Board Games 5606a Johnson Dr., Mission, KS 913.242.7970 $ B3 7751 NW Prairie View Rd., KC, MO 816.214.8554 $ B2 MissionBoardGames.com Tabletop game store offering space to play and games for rent or purchase.
Pawn & Pint
Peculiar Games & Hobbies
1719 American Royal Dr. KC, MO FREE C3 RockIslandKC.com Music, dining, coffee shops and bars, trailhead services and more. America’s first entertainment district on a bridge.
Rush Funplex 309 NE Englewood, KC, MO 816.631.4040 $-$$ C2 13110 W. 62nd Ter. Shawnee, KS 913.430.7874 $-$$ B3 TheRushFunplex.com The Rush features go-karts, bowling, mini golf, laser tag, zip line, kiddie karts, billiards, foam pit, climbing wall, bumper cars, arcade and more.
361 Legend Ln. C1 Peculiar MO 816.779.4263 $ C5 PeculiarGamesAndHobbies.com Tabletop game store and venue for friends to gather and try games.
Sandbox VR
Pennway Putt
Sinker’s Lounge
2485 Jefferson St., KC, MO 816.608.6918 $$ C3 KCWheel.com Challenge friends and family to a little competition on our 16hole mini golf course filled with KC flair under the KC Wheel.
53 W. 13th St., KC, MO 913.374.0105 $$ C3 SinkersLounge.com Kansas City’s leisurely indoor mini golf, paired with craft drinks and an elevated menu in an atmosphere worth sharing.
4845 W. 117th St. Leawood, KS 913.583.5545 $ Ultimate VR experience for groups.
B5
• FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • Smiley’s Golf
Foundry Coffeehouse
My Play Cafe
Toddler Town
10195 Monticello Ter. Lenexa, KS 913.782.1323 $ B4 SmileysGolf.com Outdoor miniature golf features beautiful gardens and fun hazards.
8835 Lackman Rd. Lenexa, KS 913.888.2722 Free B4 FoundryChurchKC.com Coffee shop for parents and indoor play for tots!
659 SW 2nd St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.287.0621 $ D4
Roger T. Sermon Community Center: 201 N. Dodgion Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7370 $ D3 IndependenceMo.gov Fall and winter indoor play center with educational fun for toddlers.
TableTop Game & Hobby 9156 Metcalf Ave. OP, KS 913.962.4263 $ B5 TableTopGameAndHobby.com Store specializes in nonelectronic games and carries a variety of games.
Up-Down KC 101 Southwest Blvd. KC, MO 816.982.9455 $$ C3 UpDownKC.com Arcade and bar with a retro vibe for adults.
• FEATURED LISTING • Worlds of Fun
See ad on pg. 67 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave. KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 WorldsOfFun.com Your Passport to Adventure begins at Worlds of Fun! Enjoy over 325 acres of thrill rides, classic carnival rides, water rides and seven worldclass roller coasters. Kids love Planet Snoopy, which features family-friendly rides, live shows and meet and greets with the Peanuts gang.
•
Humanette 118 W. 63rd St., KC, MO 816.710.9693 Humanette.co $ C4 A parent-forward, childfocused cafe with a dedicated supervised play area for children primarily aged 0-6.
Inspired Play Cafe 6527 W. 119th St. OP, KS 913.416.5845 $
B5
Peace Pavilion
Westport Roanoke Community Center Midtown Play Place
607 W. Lexington Ave., Indep, MO 816.912.1275 Free D3 ThePeacePavilion.org Children’s museum designed to teach concepts of peace.
3601 Roanoke Rd., KC, MO 816.513.7660 $ C3 KCParks.org Enjoy the indoor playground, blocks, gym mats and toys.
Shawnee Civic Centre
Wonderscope Children’s Museum
13817 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.631.5200 $ B3 CityOfShawnee.org Enjoy climbing toys, toddler sports, ride-on toys, etc.
InspireU Children’s Discovery Center
Sylvester Powell Community Center Indoor Playground
521 Felix St., Liberty, MO 816.271.4900 $ C4 InspireU.com A 35,000-square-foot discovery center with four floors of hands-on exhibits.
6200 Martway, Mission, KS 913.722.8200 $ B3 MissionKS.org Families enjoy inflatables, tricycles, gym mats and more.
433 E. Red Bridge Rd., KC, MO 816.643.6700 $ B5 Wonderscope.org Hands-on children’s museum for little ones with a variety of interactive exhibits.
Tons More Adventures at KCParent.com
Legoland Discovery Center 2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.4386 $$ C3 LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com Fun indoor experience based on the ever-popular Lego brick, featuring a range of interactive play areas.
Lenexa Community Center
Club Run and Jump
13420 Oak St., Lenexa, KS 913.477.7100 $ B4 Lenexa.com Preschool toys and activities keep little ones busy. Call for schedule.
2099 E Santa Fe St, Ste A, Olathe, KS 913.529.4386 $ A5 ClubRJ.fun An indoor play place for ages 13 and under featuring tunnels, climbing areas, and more.
6529 N. Cosby Ave., KC, MO 816.659.1525 $ B2 MyPlayCafe.com An indoor playground and coffee shop designed for parents and active toddlers.
5640 Antioch Rd, Merriam KS 913.309.853 $ B3 InspiredPlayCafe.com An educational play environment for children ages 6 months to 9 years old.
GO LEARN THROUGH PLAY
Children’s Museums and Indoor Playgrounds
6810 S. Creekside Dr., Gardner, KS 913.336.0255 $ B5
Matt Ross Community Center Explore Room 8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 Free B4 OPKansas.org Three-story “jungle” playground entertains with slides, tunnels and swings.
Inspired Play Cafe KCGOINGPLACES.COM 37
• ADVENTUROUS PLACES • ADVENTURO
ADVENTUROUS PLACES KC Timber Challenge 12829 Loring Rd. Bonner Springs, KS 913.538.1229 $$ KCTimberChallenge.com A one-of-a-kind natural 5K obstacle course.
A3
Motus Ninjas 725 NW Commerce Dr., Ste. M Lee’s Summit, MO 816.347.8008 $ D4 7200 W. 106th St., OP, KS 913.283.7341 $ B4 MotusNinjaWarrior.com Motus is the largest Ninja Warrior facility in the KC metro area, housing more than 240 feet of obstacle course.
North Kansas City YMCA Climbing Wall 1999 Iron St. North KC, MO 816.300.0531 $ C2 KansasCityYMCA.org Try the 25-foot indoor climbing wall.
Rendezvous Climbing Gym RoKC LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4) KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
GO UP
Zip Lines, Rock Walls, Obstacle Courses and Sky Diving Go Ape 7331 Oakwood Dr., KC, MO 800.971.8271 $$ C4 GoApe.com Go Ape has three outdoor activities to choose from including the Treetop Adventure, Treetop Journey and Axe Throwing.
Gymnastics at Emerald City 9063 Bond, OP, KS 913.438.4444 $ EmeraldCityGym.com Monster Mountain is 5,000 square feet of vertical and horizontal indoor climbing.
38 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
B4
$ B5 RendezvousKC.com Indoor bouldering and climbing walls.
IBEX Climbing Gym 801 NW South Outer Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.9988 $ ClimbIBEX.com Challenge yourself on the 32-foot walls, lead cave and bouldering area.
13124 State Line Rd. Leawood, KS
D3
iFLY Kansas City 10975 Metcalf Ave. OP, KS 913.305.4359 $$ B5 iFlyWorld.com Indoor skydiving is the simulation of true freefall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel.
RoKC 1501 Howell St. North KC, MO 816.843.7652
$
3150 Mercer St., Ste. 641A KC, MO 816.621.2020 $
D2
C3
654 N. Central St. Olathe, KS 913.318.3600 $ A5 ClimbKC.com Indoor rock wall climbing and bouldering facilities.
OUS PL ACES • ADVENTUROUS PLACES • Sequence Climb 1710 Washington St. KC, MO 816.944.3936 $ SequenceClimb.com Rock climbing gym.
GO JUMP
Fun Run Blue Springs
Kids Empire
Above All Trampoline Park
2501 NW S Outer Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.295.5894 $ D3 FunRunBlueSprings.com Indoor playground with arcade, inflatables, sky maze and cafe.
11941 S. Strang Line Rd. Olathe, KS 913.361.0046 $$
Trampoline Parks and Bounce Houses C3
TimberRidge Adventure Center 12300 S. Homestead Ln. Olathe, KS 913.856.8849 $$ A5 JCPRD.com Outdoor recreation activities, including a ropes course, zip line and climbing tower.
Zip KC 12829 Loring Rd. Bonner Springs, KS 913.214.9478 $$ A3 ZipKC.com A zip line adventure under trees and through trees to an awaiting 45-foot tower.
1927 Industrial Dr., Ste. 200 Liberty, MO 816.439.5300 $$ AboveAllPark.com Take flight on the massive indoor court of connected trampolines for an unforgettable adventure.
D1
Bump City 1001 NW Jefferson Blue Springs, MO 816.228.7775 $$ D3 Bump-City.com Ninja Warrior obstacles, trampolines and indoor fun.
Fun Run Liberty 1919 Industrial Dr., Liberty, MO 816.781.0386 $ D1 FunRunKansasCity.com Inflatable obstacle course, dual lane slide and bounce houses offer active fun.
Get Air 18900 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.897.3456 $$ D3 GetAirIndependence.com Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, trampoline dodgeball, a ninja obstacle course and more.
Kanga’s Indoor Playcenter and Cafe 19700 E. Jackson Rd., Suite G Indep, MO 816.339.5894 $$ D3 Independence.Kangas PlayCenter.com Specially designed children’s indoor playcenter.
A5
12124 W 95th St., Lenexa, KS 913.285.5834 $$ B3 KidsEmpire.com Indoor playground for family entertainment for all ages
Pump It Up 8510 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.236.7867 $ B3 PumpItUpParty.com Have fun in gigantic, inflatablefilled arenas for open play.
Sky Zone 2801 NE McBaine Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.272.4713 $
D4
6495 Quivira Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.308.3020 $ A4 SkyZone.com New state-of-the-art Ninja Warrior course, trampoline wipeout, free climb rock wall and more.
SAVE THE TIGER SAVE THE WILD!
LOUISBURG, KANSAS
Cedar Cove is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to the sanctuary and preservation of endangered species and their ecosystems while serving to educate on the impending threats of extinction, with the mission of effecting shifts towards sustainable human practices that support global biodiversity.
Private Weekday and Scholastic Tours Available Public Feedings Every Saturday & Sunday!
For More Information or to BOOK YOUR VISIT ONLINE! CONSERVATION THROUGH EDUCATION SAVEOURSIBERIANS.ORG KCGOINGPLACES.COM 39
• ADVENTUROUS PLACES • ADVENTURO KC Northern Railroad
Longview Lake Marina
6060 NW Waukomis Dr. KC, MO 816.746.5663 $ B2 KCNRR.com Three 16-inch gauge trains restored and operated by volunteers run on a half-mile track through tunnels.
9898 Longview Rd., KC, MO 816.966.0131 $$ C5 MakeYourDayHere.com Pontoon boat rental.
KC Fun Tours Tours Board at Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd. KC, MO 816.500.5417 $$ C3 KCFunTours.com Tour the popular sights and local favorites aboard an authentic trolley.
Kansas City Kayak & Canoe
Urban Air Trampoline Park
GO FOR A RIDE
SuperKidz Club 12219 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. Shawnee, KS 913.413.0001 $ B3 SuperKidzClub.net Indoor play facility with jumping, climbing, crawling and sliding areas.
• FEATURED LISTING • Urban Air Trampoline Park See ad on pg. 35 Overland Park: 14401 Metcalf, OP, KS 913.298.0626 $$
Wheels, Water and Sky
Kill Creek Park Marina
Ambiance on the Water 200 Ward Pkwy., KC, MO 816.365.7101 $$ C3 AmbianceOnTheWater.com Enjoy a ride aboard one of two custom designed boats for a romantic tour of the Plaza River Walk.
Belton, Grandview and KC Railroad B3
Lenexa: 8540 Maurer Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.359.5800 $$ B4 UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com Urban Air is a full-service family entertainment trampoline adventure park. We’re bringing families and friends together for a hyped up, healthy dose of jumping, climbing, swinging, crawling, building, flying and dunking. Open Jump is held daily and perfect for any age, fitness level or athletic ability.
•
502 E. Walnut St., Belton, MO 816.331.0630 $ C5 BeltonRailroad.org Train rides will appeal to the entire family. Some trips include hot dog trains, ice cream rides and more.
Blue Springs Lake Marina 1700 NE Bowlin Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.795.1112 $$ MakeYourDayHere.com Pontoon boat rental.
D4
K1 Speed 2911 NE Independence Ave. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.704.7223 $$ D4 K1Speed.com The world’s premier indoor gokart racing.
40 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Locations vary. 816.226.6379 $$ C3 KCRiverRun.com KCKC provides the opportunity to paddle local waters, including the Missouri River, in a kayak or canoe.
11670 Homestead Ln. Olathe, KS 913.558.6896 $$ A5 JCPRD.com Kayak, canoe, pedal boat rental.
Lake Jacomo Marina 7401 W. Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.795.8888 $$ D4 MakeYourDayHere.com Pontoon boat, bass boat, canoe, pedal boat and kayak rental.
Lake Olathe 13510 S. Lakeshore Dr. Olathe, KS 913.971.8973 $ A5 OlatheKS.org Lake Olathe Park features a 170-acre lake surrounded by a 258-acre community park. The lake offers a swim beach (summer) and marina.
Legacy Park 1201-1501 NE Legacy Park Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1500 FREE D4 CityOfLS.net The park features a 22-acre lake where visitors may rent canoes, kayaks and bikes for free.
Old World Balloonery 12600 W. 142nd St., OP, KS 913.338.2628 $$$ B5 OldWorldBalloonery.com Hot air balloon tours of the city.
Richard Petty Driving Experience 400 Speedway Blvd., KC, KS 1.800.237.3889 $$ A3 DrivePetty.com High-speed racing venue where visitors can drive or ride along in an authentic NASCAR vehicle.
Shawnee Mission Park Marina 7900 Renner Rd. Shawnee, KS 913.888.1990 $$ D4 JCPRD.com Fishing boat, canoe, pedal boat rental.
Wyandotte County Lake Marina 9100 Leavenworth Rd. KC, KS 913.573.8327 $$ WyCoKCK.org/parks Fishing boat rental.
A3
GO BE DARING
Escape Rooms, Mystery Theater and Thrills The Basement 1612 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 866.993.7227 $$ B3 BasementEscapeRoom.com KC’s only horror escape room.
Blade & Timber 1303 Baltimore Ave. KC, MO 816.343.8489 $$
C3
5203 W. 117th St., Leawood, KS 913.205.5421 $$ B5 BladeAndTimber.com Axe throwing entertainment venue.
OUS PL ACES • ADVENTUROUS PLACES • Breakout KC
Escape Room
Get Nerfed Battle Arena
Rage! KC
114 W. 3rd St., Ste. 102, KC, MO 816.945.2633 $$ C3
First Floor Union Station 30 W. Pershing, KC, MO 816.321.2837 $$ C3 EscapeRoomKC.com A live escape game where you have 60 minutes to solve a mystery.
701 Haines, Ste. 500 Liberty, MO 816.326.8458 $ D1 GetNerfed.fun Family-friendly entertainment options for kids and adults.
1524 Charlotte St., KC, MO 816.472.6699 $$ C3 Rage-KC.com Smash, break and generally destroy everyday objects including bottles, plates, computers, radios and more in a safe environment.
11535 Ash St., Leawood, KS 913.298.1081 $$ B5 BreakoutKC.com You have 60 minutes to break out from a real-life escape room, cracking codes.
Bury the Hatchet
Escape This Place
7105 W. 105th St., OP, KS 913.218.0945 $$ B5 BuryTheHatchet.com Throw a hatchet at the target and try to hit the bull’s-eye.
9507 E. 63rd St., Ste. 103 Raytown, MO 816.359.2372 $$ EscapeThis.Place A story-based escape room experience.
The Dinner Detective
The Exit Room
1301 Wyandotte St., KC, MO 866.496.0535 $$ C3 TheDinnerDetective.com/Kansas-City Live mystery comedy theater.
304 SW Market St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.434.5808 $$ D4 TheExitRoomKC.com Your team of players will have exactly one hour to complete a mission or task giving you the key to escape.
The Escape Game 320 Ward Pkwy., KC, MO 615.601.2606 $$ C3 TheEscapeGame.com Escape games designed to be epic for everyone.
C4
Kansas City Gangster Tour Tours Board at Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd. KC, MO 816.471.1234 $$ C3 KansasCityTransportation Group.com Call to schedule a tour. The Gangster Tour puts you hot on the trail of this city’s most notorious Goodfellas.
Tick Tock Escape Rooms
Mastermind Escape Games
888 S. State Route 291 Liberty, MO 816.415.2489 $$
7810 W. 151st St. OP, KS 913.827.0999 $$ B5 MastermindEscapeGames.com An interactive escape room game.
6398 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.396.9144 $$ B5 TickTockEscapeGames.com An hour of fun where anyone can be the one who “gets it” and solves the next clue to save the day.
Wood Chux
D1
455 S. Thompson Ave. Excelsior Springs, MO 816.415.2489 $$ D1 WoodChuxKC.com Northland’s only axe throwing gym.
head to
kcparent.com for the
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(or cheap) guide the BEST resource for finding places all over kc where kids eat for FREE (or really cheap)! KCGOINGPLACES.COM 41
• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES •
HISTORIC PLACES Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum 16701 286th Rd. Atchison, KS 913.372.0021 $$ A1 AmeliaEarhartHangarMuseum.org Interactive and immersive STEM exhibits take visitors through Earhart’s life.
Arabia Steamboat Museum 400 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.1856 $$ C3 1856.com The steamboat Arabia sank in 1856 in the Missouri River, and the treasures of the shipwreck and their history are on exhibit.
Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum 4109 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. Gladstone, MO 816.423.4107 $ C2 AtkinsJohnsonFarm.com The museum depicts farm life in the mid-1800s.
Battle of Westport Monument The Museum of Kansas City
LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4) KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
GO BACK IN TIME
History Museums and Tours 1827 Log Courthouse 107 W. Kansas Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7111 Free D3 VisitIndependence.com Learn about the slaveland dispute and westward expansion issues.
1859 Marshal’s Home and Jail Museum 217 N. Main St., Indep, MO 816.252.1892 $ D3 JCHS.org/1859JailMuseum One-room schoolhouse, marshal’s home, 1859 jail and museum.
42 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Alexander Majors Home 8201 State Line Rd. KC, MO 816.444.1858 $ C4 WornallMajors.org Alexander Majors was one of the founders of the Pony Express. The home was built in 1856.
Amelia Earhart Birthplace 223 N. Terrace St. Atchison, KS 913.367.4217 $ AmeliaEarhartMuseum.org Tour the birthplace and childhood home of Kansas’ famous female aviator.
5200 Wornall, KC, MO 913.345.2000 Free C3 BattleOfWestport.org The center of the main battlefield is located at present-day Loose Park.
Battle of Westport Museum 4000 Baltimore, KC, MO 816.561.1821 Free C3 BattleOfWestport.org The museum depicts the history of the famous Civil War battle in western Missouri.
Belton Historical Society & Museum A1
512 Main St., Belton, MO 816.322.3977 $ C5 BeltonHistoricalSociety.org View artifacts preserving the history of Belton.
• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • Ben Ferrel Platte County Museum
Black Archives of Mid-America
220 Ferrel St., Platte City, MO 816.431.5121 $ A1 PCHS1882.org This 1881 home is a replica of the Missouri Governor’s Mansion. County historical archives and exhibits are housed here. Open seasonally.
1722 E. 17th Ter. KC, MO 816.221.1600 Free C3 BlackArchives.org Collections featuring the works of Black artists, writers, musicians and leaders.
Berlin Wall Monument Grove of Regiments on Bundel Road Fort Leavenworth, KS 913.684.3600 Free A1 VisitLeavenworthKS.com The monument memorializes the historic barrier that separated West and East Berlin during the Cold War.
Bingham-Waggoner Estate 313 W. Pacific Ave., Indep, MO 816.461.3491 $ D3 BWEstate.net The 1855 museum depicts the history of George Caleb Bingham.
Bonnell Museum 20755 Lamar Rd. Weston, MO 816.992.0102 Free A1 WestonMO.com Tour an 1874 working farm and explore the museum.
Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center 3700 Blue Pkwy. KC, MO 816.513.0700 Free C3 BruceWatkinsCenter.com This museum is a tribute to the legacy of Kansas City’s early Black pioneers.
Burnt District Museum
Clay County Museum
400 E. Mechanic, Ste. 203 Harrisonville, MO 816.380.4396 $ C5 ci.Harrisonville.MO.US Civil War museum with exhibits including a diorama of the Battle of Morristown, timelines, photo archives and more.
14 N. Main St. Liberty, MO 816.792.1849 Free D1 ClayCountyMuseum.org Painted and ceramic murals tell Clay County’s story. Interpretive brochures available.
Charles Evans Whittaker Courthouse U.S. Federal Courthouse 400 E. 9th St., KC, MO 816.426.3963 Free C3 GSA.gov Tour the Federal Courthouse and learn how the judicial branch of government works.
Clay County Courthouse 1 Courthouse Square Liberty, MO 816.407.3900 Free D2 Circuit7.net Painted and ceramic murals tell Clay County’s story. Interpretive brochures available.
C.W. Parker Carousel Museum 320 S. Esplanade, Leavenworth, KS 913.682.1331 $ A1 FirstCityMuseums.org Tour the museum to learn the history of the carousel and enjoy a ride as well!
Dillingham-Lewis Home 101 SW 15th St. Blue Springs, MO 816.224.8979 Free D4 BlueSpringsHistory.org Tour a 20th-century pioneer home to see how early settlers in Jackson County lived. Open seasonally.
Shawnee Town 1929
FREE Audio Tour!
Open for the Season! Tuesday - Saturday 10:00am - 4:30pm REGULAR MUSEUM ADMISSION Adults - $8 Seniors, Veterans, First Responders - $6 Shawnee Residents, Children (5 - 17) - $5 Children (under 5) - FREE
Enjoy unlimited visits with a FRIENDS OF SHAWNEE TOWN MEMBERSHIP! KCGOINGPLACES.COM 43
• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • Dole Institute of Politics 2350 Petefish Dr., Lawrence, KS 785.864.4900 FREE A3 DoleInstitute.org Museum celebrates public service, civil discourse and the legacy of Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole through its programs, archive and museum.
Ensor Park and Museum 18995 W. 183rd St., Olathe, KS 913.592.4141 $ A5 EnsorParkAndMuseum.org A seasonal museum devoted to the teacher, craftsman and amateur radio operator and his influence.
Excelsior Springs Historical Museum 101 E. Broadway St. Excelsior Springs, MO 816.630.0101 Free D1 ESMuseum.com View historic records and artifacts and learn the history of Excelsior Springs.
First City Museum 743 Delaware St. Leavenworth, KS 913.682.1866 $ A1 FirstCityMuseums.org Exhibits highlight the history of Kansas’ first city.
Fort Osage 107 Osage St., Sibley, MO 816.650.3278 $ D2 MakeYourDayHere.com Osage Indian history and early military history are depicted through exhibits and special events.
Frontier Army Museum 100 Reynolds Ave. Fort Leavenworth, KS 913.684.3191 Free A1 FFAM.us Learn about the history of the frontier Army from 1804 to 1916 and Fort Leavenworth from 1827 to the present.
Grandview Historical Depot Museum 1205 Jones St., Grandview, MO 816.761.0414 $ C4 Grandview.org The museum, housed in a caboose, preserves Grandview history. 44 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Midwest Genealogy Center MCPL
Historic Liberty Jail
Jesse James Farm & Museum
1420 S. 78th St., KC, KS 913.299.0373 Free A3 KSHS.org A step back to the days of frontier life along the Kansas and Missouri border.
216 N. Main St. Liberty, MO 816.781.3188 Free D1 LDS.org Discover the history of the jail and learn the story of Joseph Smith, a Mormon leader.
Harris-Kearney House
Historic Pharis Farm
21216 James Farm Rd. Kearney, MO 816.736.8500 $ D1 ClayCountyMO.gov Tour the Jesse James home and learn about the famous outlaw and pre-Civil War history in northern Missouri.
4000 Baltimore Ave., KC, MO 816.561.1821 $ C3 WestportHistorical.com Tour the 1855 house that served as a hotel in old Westport and stands as one of Kansas City’s oldest landmarks.
20611 EE Hwy. Liberty, MO 816.736.8500 $ D2 ClayCountyMO.gov Learn about the Pharis farm of 1836.
Grinter Place State Historic Site
•
FEATURED LISTING Harry S. Truman Presidential Library
•
See ad on pg. 5 500 US Hwy. 24, Indep, MO 816.268.8200 $ D3 TrumanLibrary.org One of 15 presidential libraries. Visitors are able to experience engaging exhibits and programs, and the library aspires to reach a broad and diverse audience in a continuous effort to keep President Truman’s life and legacy alive, emphasizing his ideals of citizenship, learning and service.
•
Jackson County Historical Society Archives Jackson County Courthouse 112 W. Lexington Ave. Indep, MO 816.461.1897 Free D3 JCHS.org Tour the historic Truman Courthouse, which is home to the archives and research library.
John Wornall House Museum 6115 Wornall Rd., KC, MO 816.444.1858 $ C4 WornallMajors.org The 1858 museum offers special events and programs telling the history of Kansas City during the Civil War.
Johnson County Kansas Archives 19310 W. 159th St. Olathe, KS 913.715.0400 Free A5 JoCoGov.org Archives of Johnson County, KS, history are open to visitors.
Jesse James Bank Museum
Johnson County Museum
103 N. Water St. Liberty, MO 816.736.8510 $ D2 ClayCountyMo.gov Visit the site of the first U.S. daylight peacetime bank robbery.
8788 Metcalf, OP, KS 913.826.2787 $ B4 JCPRD.com The museum shares local history through galleries and public programs.
• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • Kansas City Automotive Museum
KC Rail Experience
15095 W. 116th St. Olathe, KS 913.322.4227 $ A5 KansasCityAutoMuseum.com Museum celebrating the history of automobiles.
Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd. KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 UnionStation.org Let the power of play lead the way in this train-themed area geared for children ages 4-7.
Kansas City Historic Garment District Museum
KCMO City Hall 414 E. 12th St., KC, MO 816.513.3600 Free C3 KCMO.gov Take a free tour to the top for a panoramic view of the city, or schedule a tour to learn about the inner workings of city government.
801 Broadway Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.0720 Free C3 KansasCityMuseum.org The museum tells the story of Kansas City’s garment factories from the 1920s through the 1980s.
Kearney Historic Museum
Kansas City Irish Center 19 W. Linwood Blvd. KC, MO 816.474.3848 Free IrishCenterKC.org Discover Kansas City’s Irish history.
101 S. Jefferson St. Kearney, MO 816.903.1856 $ D1 VisitClayMO.com Home to several permanent and rotating displays including a full timeline of Kearney’s history.
C3
Korean War Veterans Memorial Kansas City Washington Square Park: Pershing & Main, KC, MO Free C3 MoKoreanWarMemorial.org A memorial dedicated to the memory of those who served during the Korean War.
Korean War Veterans Memorial Overland Park 11902 Lowell Ave., OP, KS 913.327.6643 Free B5 OPKansas.org The KWVA Memorial features an engraved wall honoring the fallen and missing soldiers of the Korean War.
Korean/Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wyandotte County Park: 91st Street & Leavenworth Road KC, KS 913.573.8327 Free A2 WyCoKCK.org America’s first dual war memorial is dedicated to veterans of both the Korean and Vietnam wars.
Lanesfield School Historic Site 18745 S. Dillie Rd. Edgerton, KS 913.893.6645 Free A5 JCPRD.com The Lanesfield School Historic Site is a tribute to rural schooling.
Leavenworth National Cemetery 150 Muncie Rd., Leavenworth, KS 913.727.1376 Free A1 Cem.VA.Gov This historic cemetery is the burial site for many soldiers, beginning with the Civil War.
Lee’s Summit History Museum 220 SW Main St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.287.4477 Free D4 LeesSummitHistory.net Museum dedicated to preserving the community’s rich cultural heritage.
2025
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• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures 5235 Oak St., KC, MO 816.235.8000 $ C3 ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org Explore the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collections of antique toys.
• FEATURED LISTING • National WWI Museum and Memorial
Lanesfield School Historic Site
• FEATURED LISTING •
Legler Barn Museum 14907 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.492.0038 Free LenexaHistoricalSociety.org The site displays changing exhibits on local history.
Midwest Genealogy Center A4
Lone Jack Battlefield Museum 301 S. Bynum Rd., Lone Jack, MO 816.697.8833 Free D5 HistoricLoneJack.org Enjoy this museum and battlefield tour of the Battle of Lone Jack.
• FEATURED LISTING • Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm
See ad on pg. 45 1200 E. Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 913.971.5111 $ A5 Mahaffie.org Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm offers a unique hands-on experience for visitors of all ages, focusing on 1860s farming, frontier life and stagecoach travel, while preserving the nationally significant Mahaffie story. Mahaffie is the last remaining stagecoach stop open to the public on the Santa Fe Trail. Visitors tour the historic home, blacksmith shop and farm.
•
46 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
See ad on pg. 63 3440 S. Lee’s Summit Rd. Indep, MO 816.252.7228 FREE D3 MyMCPL.org Research your genealogy at this facility where visitors may access online databases to search censuses, newspapers, vital records and more.
•
Missouri Model Railroad Museum 312 W. Pacific Ave., Indep, MO 816.552.5750 $ D3 ShowMeRails.org Railroad memorabilia, artifacts, art and dioramic models of the railroads that first entered Missouri.
Missouri Town Living History Museum 8010 E. Park Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.229.8980 $ D4 MakeYourDayHere.com Missouri Town is a reconstructed 1850s farming community.
Money Museum 1 Memorial Dr., KC, MO 816.881.2683 Free C3 KansasCityFed.org Tour Kansas City’s Federal Reserve Bank and learn about the U.S. monetary system.
Mount Gilead Church & School 15918 Plattsburg Rd. Kearney, MO 816.736.8500 Free D1 ClayCountyMO.gov/historic Tour a one-room schoolhouse where school continued to meet through the Civil War, and a historic church.
The Museum of Kansas City 3218 Gladstone Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.0720 $ C3 MuseumOfKansasCity.org Explore over 400 artifacts, plus archive images, exhibits and art installations by Kansas Citybased artists.
National Agricultural Hall of Fame 630 N. 126th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.721.1075 $ A3 AgHallOfFame.com Learn about agriculture in the Heartland.
National Frontier Trails Museum 416 W. Maple Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7575 $ D3 ci.Independence.MO.us/NFTM Features the history of the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails.
See ad on pg. 51 2 Memorial Dr., KC, MO 816.888.8100 $ C3 TheWorldWar.org The National WWI Museum and Memorial is dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding the Great War and its enduring impact. Through original objects and documents, video, recreated trenches and interactive tables, the museum shares a comprehensive history of the First World War with visitors.
•
Oxford Schoolhouse Ironwoods Park: 14701 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.663.9157 Free B5 Leawood.org Living history programs where children experience the oneroom school day of pioneers.
Pioneer Trails Adventures 217 N. Main, Indep, MO 816.254.2466 $ D3 PioneerTrailsAdventures.com Enjoy a mule-drawn covered wagon ride as you learn about the city’s history and famous citizens.
Raytown Historical Society and Museum 9705 E. 63rd St., Raytown, MO 816.353.5033 $ C3 RaytownHistoricalSociety.org Museum features a general store, Raytown history and traveling exhibits.
Rice-Tremonti Home 8801 E. 66th St., Raytown, MO 816.358.7423 $ C3 Rice-Tremonti.com Visit the oldest standing frame house in Jackson County, MO.
• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • Rosedale Memorial Arch
Trailside Center
Vaile Mansion
Watkins Woolen Mill
Booth Street & Park Drive KC, KS 913.573.8327 Free B3 WyCoKCK.org Arch was built in 1923 to pay tribute to WWI veterans.
9901 Holmes Rd. KC, MO 816.942.3581 FREE C4 TrailsideCenter.org Resource center with artifacts from New Santa Fe’s historical collection.
1500 N. Liberty St. Indep, MO 816.325.7430 $ D3 VaileMansion.org Guided tours are offered of the 1882 Victorian mansion.
26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO 816.580.3387 $ D1 MOStateParks.com Tour the home, visitors center, farm and brick mill, and see how workers turned fleece into fabric.
Veterans Memorial Park
Weston Historical Museum
1025 S. Harrison, Olathe, KS 913.971.8563 Free A5 OlatheKS.org/parksrec This 4-acre park honors the men and women who served America in the Armed Services.
601 Main St., Weston, MO 816.386.2977 Free A1 WestonHistoricalMuseum.org The Weston Historical Museum has preserved local artifacts to enjoy today.
Veterans Park
Wyandotte County Historical Society and Museum
Shawnee Indian Mission 3403 W. 53rd St. Fairway, KS 913.262.0867 $ B3 KSHS.org Learn the history of the Shawnee and early Johnson County, KS.
• FEATURED LISTING • Shawnee Town 1929
See ad on pg. 43 11501 W. 57th St. Shawnee, KS 913.248.2360 $ B3 ShawneeTown.org Step back into the 1920s and experience life in Shawnee, a truck-farming town located just 10 miles from downtown Kansas City! Visitors of all ages can explore our interactive historic Main Street’s local businesses and an original truck farm. This living history museum gives visitors a taste of life in the 1920s.
•
Shoal Creek Living History Museum 7000 NE Barry Rd. KC, MO 816.792.2655 $ C1 ShoalCreekLivingHistory Museum.com A village of more than 20 authentic 19th-century buildings. Hands-on history is taught through programs and events.
Strawberry Hill Museum 720 N. 4th St. KC, KS 913.371.3264 $ B3 StrawberryHillMuseum.org This Queen Anne-style 1887 home tells the story of immigrants from Eastern Europe.
Truman Courtroom and Office Jackson County Courthouse: 112 W. Lexington Indep, MO 816.881.3000 $ D3 JCHS.org Tour the office and courtroom used by Truman in his early years of elected politics.
Truman Farm Home 12301 Blue Ridge Blvd. Grandview, MO 816.254.2720 $ C5 NPS.gov/HSTR Built in 1894, this was Harry Truman’s childhood residence from 1906 to 1917. Open seasonally.
Truman Home 219 N. Delaware Indep, MO 816.254.2720 $ D3 NPS.gov/HSTR Tour the home of President and Mrs. Truman where they lived.
121 W. Pawnee Ln. Gardner, KS 913.856.0936 Free A5 GardnerKansas.gov The park features a veterans memorial, as well as park facilities: playground, trail, basketball court and more.
631 N. 126th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.573.5002 Free A3 WYCoKCK.org Hands-on exhibits and artifacts depict the history of Wyandotte County and Native Americans.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial 4181 Broadway, KC, MO 816.513.7500 Free C3 KCParks.org The memorial includes a wall with the names of 451 area veterans killed or missing in action.
Tons More Adventures at KCParent.com
TWA Museum 10 Richards Rd., #110, KC, MO 816.234.1011 $ C3 TWAMuseum.com Exhibits preserving the legacy of Trans World Airlines’ leadership in the world of commercial aviation.
UFDC Doll Museum 10900 N. Pomona Ave., KC, MO 816.891.7040 $ B1 UFDC.org Museum features exhibits on dolls from around the world and throughout history.
Thomas Hart Benton Home
U.S. National Archives
3616 Belleview Ave. KC, MO 816.931.5722 $ C3 MOStateParks.com Tour the home of one of Missouri’s most famous artists.
400 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.268.8000 Free C3 Archives.gov/kansas-city The collections include historical, diplomatic, genealogical and military documents, artifacts and exhibits.
Arabia Steamboat Museum KCGOINGPLACES.COM 47
• SCIENCE PLACES • SCIENCE PLACES •
SCIENCE PLACES The Museum at Prairiefire 5801 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.333.3500 $ B5 VisitTheMap.org The museum showcases world renowned exhibits.
Powell Observatory 26500 Melrose Louisburg, KS 913.438.3825 $ B5 ASKC.org Powell Observatory is home to the largest telescope in a fivestate area.
Science City at Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd. KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 ScienceCity.com Kansas City’s Science Center, Science City at Union Station Kansas City, is a dynamic, handson science center featuring nearly 200 individual interactive exhibits and daily programming.
UMKC’S Richard L. Sutton, Jr., M.D., Museum of Geosciences Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4) KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
48 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
GO EXPLORE
KU Natural History Museum
American Royal Museum
1345 Jayhawk Blvd. Lawrence, KS 785.864.4450 $ A3 Biodiversity.KU.edu Four floors of exhibits help you explore the life of the planet.
Science Museums
1701 American Royal Ct., KC, MO 816.221.9800 $ C3 AmericanRoyal.com Museum is dedicated to agriculture, show animals and petting zoo.
Gottlieb Planetarium Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 UnionStation.org Combining interactive astronomy education with spectacular public shows and night sky viewing opportunities.
Moon Marble 600 E. Front St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.441.1432 Free A3 MoonMarble.com Watch marble making, learn marble games and visit the store with old-fashioned toys.
Miller Nichols Library Room #329 800 E. 51st St., KC, MO FREE C3 CAS.UMKC.edu View a collection of rocks, minerals and fossils including the museum’s crinoid collection.
GO SEE ANIMALS
Zoos, Aquariums and Farms Carolyn’s Country Cousins Pumpkin Patch 17607 NE 52nd St. Liberty, MO 816.781.9196 $ C2 CarolynsCountryCousins.com The seasonal farm is open every autumn.
• SCIENCE PLACES • SCIENCE PLACES • • FEATURED LISTING •
Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary and Educational Center See ad on pg. 39 3783 Hwy. K68 Louisburg, KS 913.837.5515 $ B5 SaveOurSiberians.org A preserve for tigers and a refuge for big cats that are abandoned, neglected or whose owners are unable to care for them. On Saturday evenings (summer-autumn) watch as the big cats are fed by trained staff. Special events and tours are offered through the year.
•
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead 13800 Switzer, OP, KS 913.897.2360 Free/$ B5 OPKansas.org 12-acre park with farm animals, a dairy barn, a fishing pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, pony rides and more.
Green Meadows Alpaca Ranch 1113 SW 500th Rd. Holden, MO 816.813.9359 $ D5 GreenMeadowsAlpacaRanch. business.site Experience an interactive farm tour on a working alpaca ranch.
Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins 17701 S. State Rte. D Belton, MO 816.331.1067 $ C3 JohnsonFarms.net A family-owned farm open two seasons of the year with u-pick seasonal produce and high quality plants. The fall pumpkin patch is a kid-friendly favorite.
• FEATURED LISTING •
Helzberg Penguin Plaza, worldclass African exhibit, venturing to Australia and the Tropics exhibit. Live animal feedings and shows are offered daily, and watching elephants paint, sea lions train and the bird show are a few favorites. The zoo also hosts family-friendly weekends with character visits, holiday specials and workshops to educate visitors on the animals.
Sea Life Kansas City
Native Hooved Animal Enclosure
14713 W. 311th St. Paola, KS 509.750.7401 $ B5 TimberViewFarmAlpacas.com Tour the alpaca farm and learn about fiber arts. Call to schedule.
2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.4386 $$ C3 VisitSeaLife.com Get up close with underwater creatures, experience the 180° Ocean Tunnel and touch sea stars, sea urchins and more in the Interactive Rockpool Experience.
• Timber View Farm Alpacas
Fleming Park: 6010 E. Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.503.4800 Free D4 MakeYourDayHere.com View the 110-acre enclosure where elk, buffalo and deer roam freely.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Manna Meadows
See ad on pg. 68 6800 Zoo Dr., KC, MO 816.595.1234 $ C4 KansasCityZoo.org Visitors love the Sobela Aquarium, Polar Bear Passage,
16842 Metro Ave. Bonner Springs, KS 913.461.5003 $ A3 MannaMeadowsAlpacas.com Alpaca farm and honeybee apiary.
YaYa’s Alpaca Farm 30200 E. 275th St. Garden City, MO 816.213.7555 $ C5 YaYasAlpacaFarm.com Tour this working alpaca farm.
GO VISIT GARDENS Botanical Gardens and Learning Gardens
Beanstalk Children’s Garden 6917 Kensington KC, MO 816.931.3877 $ KCCG.org Children’s garden features educational programs on gardening and nutrition.
C4
Kauffman Memorial Garden 4800 Rockhill Rd., KC, MO 816.932.1200 Free Kauffman.org Free 2-acre public garden.
C3
Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden Loose Park: 5200 Wornall Rd., KC, MO 816.513.7500 Free C3 KCParks.org KC’s rose garden features hundreds of roses with a fountain.
Linda Hall Library
Science City at Union Station
Urban Arboretum 5109 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.363.4600 Free C3 LindaHall.org Urban garden on UMKC’s campus features a butterfly garden. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 49
• SCIENCE PLACES • SCIENCE PLACES • Overland Park Arboretum 8909 W. 179th St., OP, KS 913.685.3604 Free-$ B5 OPKansas.org Savor beautiful gardens, including a Monet garden and a children’s garden.
Pollinator Prairie 320 S. Blake St., Olathe, KS 913.693.1905 Free A5 Pollinator.org/pollinator-prairie Free garden to visit.
Powell Gardens 1609 NW US Hwy. 50 Kingsville, MO 816.697.2600 $ D5 PowellGardens.org Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s botanical garden, is set on 970 acres of lush, rolling hills just east of Kansas City on U.S. Highway 50.
GO EXPERIENCE NATURE Conservation Centers
Burr Oak Woods Nature Center
Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center 4750 Troost Ave., KC, MO 816.759.7300 Free C3 MDC.MO.gov Explore the nature center, hiking trail, special programs and more.
Blue River Nature Sanctuary 17315 Antioch Rd., OP, KS 913.897.7340 $ B5 BlueRiverForestExperience.org Enjoy a variety of nature connection experiences.
Burr Oak Woods Nature Center 1401 NW Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.3766 Free D3 MDC.MO.gov Features hands-on exhibits, an aquarium, animals and nature trails.
Burroughs Audubon Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary 7300 SW West Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.795.8177 Free Burroughs.org A library and bird watching center. 50 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
D4
Cave Spring Park and William M. Klein Park
Kemper Outdoor Education Center
8701 E. Gregory Blvd., KC, MO 816.659.1945 Free C4 CaveSpring.org Visit the nature center and hiking trails.
8201 Jasper Bell Blue Springs, MO 816.229.8980 Free D4 MakeYourDayHere.com See reptile displays, rock and fossil exhibits and a natural resource library.
Ernie Miller Nature Center 909 N. Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS 913.826.2800 Free A5 ErnieMiller.com The nature center features animals native to Kansas, hiking trails and educational programs.
F. L. Schlagle Library 4051 West Dr., KC, KS 913.295.8250 Free A3 KCKPL.org Nature library offers trails, nature art gallery, bird watching and classes.
George Owens Nature Park 1601 S. Speck Rd., Indep, MO 816.325.7115 Free D3 GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Enjoy programs for children, fishing dock and trails.
Lakeside Nature Center 4701 E. Gregory Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.8960 Free C4 LakesideNatureCenter.org An incredible place to enjoy learning about local native wildlife.
Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary 407 N. Lafrenz Rd. Liberty, MO 816.781.8598 Free D1 NatureSanctuary.com Provides engaging hands-on environmental and natural science education.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary 8888 Clark Ave., Parkville, MO 816.741.7676 Free B2 ParkvilleMO.gov/nature-sanctuary Explore the nature sanctuary and hiking trails.
Prairie Oak Nature Center 14701 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.696.7770 Free B5 Leawood.org/parks The nature center features hands-on activities and several live animals.
Prairie Park Nature Center 2730 Harper St., Lawrence, KS 785.832.7980 Free A3 LawrenceKS.org/lprd/ppnc Investigate animal exhibits including reptiles, birds and mammals.
Tons More Adventures at KCParent.com
• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES •
THEATRICAL PLACES Aztec Shawnee Theater
City Stage
11119 Johnson Dr. Shawnee, KS 913.207.4147 $$ A4 AztecShawnee.com Showcasing local and regional music acts in a beautifully restored auditorium.
30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $$ C3 UnionStation.org Live theater performances for all ages.
Barn Players Community Theatre 1000 E. 9th St., Ste. 225, KC, MO 913.432.9100 $ C3 TheBarnPlayers.org Enjoy live community theater performances.
Bell Road Barn Players David Theater at Park University: 8700 NW River Park Dr. Parkville, MO 816.587.0218 $ BellRoadBarn.com Live community theater performances.
The Coterie Theatre
LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4) KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. . Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
Live Theater, Dance and Entertainment The American Theatre Guild
Avila College Goppert Theatre 11901 Wornall Rd. KC, MO 816.501.3699 $$ Avila.edu Students offer live theater performances.
52 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Big Creek Country Show
Blue Springs City Theatre
9001 State Line Rd., Ste. 110 KC, MO 800.776.7469 $$ C4 AmericanTheatreGuild.com/ KansasCity/ Live Broadway musicals, plays and jazz shows.
C5
2000 NW Ashton Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.295.7331 $ BlueSpringsCityTheatre.com Live community theater.
201 N. Dodgion, Indep, MO 816.719.7389 $ D3 CityTheatreOfIndependence.org Live community theater for all ages includes children’s shows.
The Comedy Club 1130 W. 103rd St., KC, MO 816.326.8776 $$ C5 TheComedyClubKC.com An improv and stand-up comedy club.
Coterie Theatre B2
110 Veterans Pkwy. Pleasant Hill, MO 816.524.6856 $$ A5 BigCreekCountry.net Country musicians and comedians offer shows for the family.
GO SEE A SHOW
City Theatre of Independence
Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., Ste. 144 KC, MO 816.474.6552 $ C3 CoterieTheatre.org The Coterie is among the top five theaters serving families and young audiences in the United States, according to TIME magazine.
• FEATURED LISTING •
The Culture House
See ad on pg. 53 Various performance locations D3
Cable Dahmer Arena 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.442.6100 $$ D3 CableDahmerArena.com A 5,800-seat venue located just 20 minutes from downtown. This is a premier destination for live entertainment and professional sports in Eastern Jackson County.
Olathe Conservatory: 14808 W. 117th St., Olathe, KS 913.393.3141 $ A5 Oak Park: 11149 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.291.1972 $ B3 CultureHouse.com Almost every town in Europe has a Culture House, a gathering place where neighbors engage in the arts. You’re invited to become part of Kansas City’s Culture House, a place dedicated to artistic excellence. Experience live shows including musicals, dance and theater.
•
• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES • Dramatic Truth Ballet
Gem Theater
Kansas City Ballet
KC Friends of Alvin Ailey
10510 Grandview Rd. KC, MO 816.767.9222 $ C4 DramaticTruth.org Local Christian ballet troupe performs live shows for the whole family.
1616 E. 18th St. KC, MO 816.474.8463 $$ C3 AmericanJazzMuseum.org The Gem Theater features everything from films and live theater productions to dynamic live jazz performances.
Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity: 500 W. Pershing, KC, MO 816.931.2232
1714 E. 18th St. KC, MO 816.471.6003 $$ C3 KCFAA.org Professional dance group features ballet, modern and jazz dance.
Folly Theater 300 W. 12th St. KC, MO 816.842.5500 $$ C3 FollyTheater.org Live theater and music performances entertain at this venue.
Funny Bone Comedy Club 7260 NW 87th St. KC, MO 816.759.5233 $$ B2 ImprovKC.com Live improv comedy theater.
Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center 8788 Metcalf Ave. OP, KS 913.826.2787 $-$$ JCPRD.com Live local theater.
B4
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway KC, MO 816.994.7222 $$ C3 KauffmanCenter.org Home to resident organizations the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera, Kansas City Symphony and other programming.
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.994.7222 $$ C3 KCBallet.org The Kansas City Ballet is a 30-member professional ballet company.
Kansas City Jazz Orchestra Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.994.7222 $$ C3 KCJO.org Live jazz concerts preserving the city’s jazz heritage.
KC Chamber Orchestra Various performance locations 816.960.1324 $$ C3 KCChamberOrchestra.org Classical music is performed by KC’s chamber orchestra.
The KC Improv Company 4010 Pennsylvania Ave. KC, MO 816.806.4000 $$ C3 KansasCityComedy.com Live improv and sketch comedy shows.
KC Repertory Theatre Spencer Theatre 4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.2700 $$
C3
Copaken Stage 1 H&R Block Way KC, MO 816.235.2700 $$ C3 KCRep.org Kansas City Repertory Theatre pursues theatrical excellence and advances the art form.
THE MUSICAL book by terrance mcnally music by stephen flaherty lyrics by lynn ahrens
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 53
• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES • • FEATURED LISTING • Midwest Trust Center
See ad on pg. 3 12345 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.469.4445 $$ B4 JCCC.edu The Performing Arts Series at Johnson County Community College connects and enriches the community by serving as a national and community leader for the performing arts, presenting professional performing arts programming, providing a comprehensive arts education program and presenting new artistic work to the community.
•
Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice 10448 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.492.0004 $ MillerMarley.com Local youth offer live dance performances.
B3
Music Hall Starlight Theatre
KC Symphony
Lee’s Summit Symphony
Main Street Theater
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.0400 $$ C3 KCSymphony.org Enjoy professional live classical symphony.
The Pavilion at John Knox Village: 520 NW Murray Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.401.5251 $ D4 LSSymphony.org Classical symphony entertains with live performances.
510 Main St., Belton, MO 816.406.9422 $ C5 MainStreetTheaterBelton.com Community theater performed on the historic city hall stage.
KC Young Audiences
Liberty Performing Arts Theatre
3732 Main St., KC, MO 816.531.4022 $ C3 KCYA.org Live music, dance, drama and poetry entertain patrons ages 5 and up.
1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4373 $$ D1 LPAT.org The entire family can enjoy live theater performances.
702 Blue Ridge Blvd. Grandview, MO 913.642.7576 $ C5 MartinCityMelodrama.org Live Vaudeville-style theater is sure to leave the entire family laughing!
Leawood Stage Co. 4800 Town Center Dr. #2038 Leawood, KS. 913.663.9157 FREE - $ B5 LeawoodStageCo.org Community theater performances offered indoors at the Lodge at Ironwoods and outdoors at Ironwoods Amphitheater in the summer.
54 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Lied Center of Kansas 1600 Stewart Dr., Lawrence, KS 785.864.2787 $ A3 Lied.KU.edu World famous live entertainment with theater, concerts and shows.
Lyric Opera Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.7344 $$ C3 KCOpera.org Attend live professional opera performances.
Martin City Melodrama
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre 3927 Main St., KC, MO 816.569.3226 $ MetKC.org Currently closed and under renovation.
C3
The Midland 1228 Main St., KC, MO 816.283.9900 $$ C3 MidlandKC.com Live theater, concerts and other performances entertain guests.
301 W. 13th St., KC, MO 816.513.5000 $$ C3 KCConvention.com Host to live theater in Kansas City since 1936, this facility is known for bringing world-class shows and entertainment.
Music Theater Heritage Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., Ste. 301 KC, MO 816.221.6987 $ C3 MusicTheaterHeritage.com MTH presents classic musical theater and revue performances.
New Theatre & Restaurant 9229 Foster St., OP, KS 913.649.7469 $$ NewTheatre.com Live dinner theater features famous stars in each performance.
B4
Northland Symphony Orchestra Various locations 816.945.2436 $ NorthlandSymphony.org Enjoy notable symphony performances.
B2
• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES • Olathe Civic Band
Quality Hill Playhouse
Storybook Theatre
Trilogy Cultural Arts Centre
Various locations 913.669.3388 Free-$ B3 OlatheCivicBand.org Live musical performances for the community.
303 W. 10th St. KC, MO 816.421.1700 $$ C3 QualityHillPlayhouse.com Live music concerts range from classical to jazz.
3719 SW 40 Hwy. Blue Springs, MO 816.204.5702 $ D4 StorybookTheatreKC.com Public performances are held seasonally.
15585 S. Keeler St. Olathe, KS 913.254.4444 $ A5 TrilogyCulturalArts.com Live theater, dance and musical performances.
Slightly Off Broadway Theatre
T-Mobile Center
The Truman
1407 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.949.7100 $$ C3 T-MobileCenter.com Multiuse indoor arena in the Power & Light District.
601 E. Truman Rd. KC,MO 816.205.8560 $$ C3 TheTrumanKC.com Former car dealership and machine shop turned Kansas City’s most unique concert and event venue.
Olathe Civic Theatre 500 E. Loula Olathe, KS 913.782.2990 $$ B4 OlatheTheatre.org Live community theater is produced for the entire family.
Piccadilly Puppets Various locations 404.636.0022 $ PiccadillyPuppets.org Touring puppet company performs shows across the KC metro area.
Puppetry Arts Institute 11025 E. Winner Rd. Indep, MO 816.833.9777 $ D3 PuppetryArtsInstitute.org Enjoy live puppet shows, make your own puppets and tour the museum.
114 N. Marietta Excelsior Springs, MO 816.637.3728 $ D1 SOBTheatre.org Live community theater for all ages includes children’s shows.
Starlight Theatre 4600 Starlight Rd. KC, MO 816.363.7827 $$ C3 KCStarlight.com Get into the spirit with starry nights, great food and the best Broadway entertainment.
StoneLion Puppet Theatre Various locations 816.221.5351 $ StoneLionPuppets.org Live puppet shows are tailored for children.
Theatre for Young America Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2083 $ C3 TYA.org Theatre for Young America provides family shows all year.
Theatre in the Park Outdoor: 7710 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS Indoor: 8788 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.826.3012 $ A4 TheatreInThePark.org Live outdoor theater is performed for the entire family every summer.
UMKC Conservatory of Music James C. Olson Performing Arts Center: 4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.2900 $$ Conservatory.UMKC.edu Live musical performances entertain the entire family.
C3
UMKC Theatre 4949 Cherry St. KC, MO 816.235.6222 $$ C3 UMKCTheatre.org UMKC college students offer live theater performances.
What If Puppets 300 E. 39th St., Suite LL2D KC, MO 816.756.3500 $ C3 WhatIfPuppets.org An award-winning professional puppet theater.
The White Theatre at the J 5801 W. 115th St. OP, KS 913.327.8054 $$ TheJKC.org Live theater and music performances entertain the whole family.
B5
Youth Symphony of KC
The Culture House
Various performance locations 209 W. 18th St. KC, MO 816.897.0577 $$ C3 YouthSymphonyKC.org Area youth offer live classical music performances. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 55
• SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS
SPORTS PLACES
Crown Center Ice Terrace
LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $50 for family of 4) $$ (More than $50 for family of 4) KC – Kansas City OP – Overland Park Indep – Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 29. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.
GO TO A GAME
KC Chiefs
KC Royals
Hy-Vee Arena
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium: 1 Arrowhead Dr., KC, MO 816.920.4237 $$ KCChiefs.com Cheer for KC’s professional football team.
Kauffman Stadium: 1 Royal Way, KC, MO 816.504.4040 $$ Royals.MLB.com Visit the K to watch KC’s professional baseball team.
Pro, Semi-Pro and College Sports
1800 Genessee St., KC, MO 816.505.0404 $-$$ C3 Hy-VeeArena.com Hy-Vee Arena is the nation’s first multi-level, multi-functional sports complex. Two separate floors house 12 hardwood maple courts, dining, businesses and retail space to offer an unparalleled experience.
I-70 Motorsports Park 1273 N. Outer Rd., Odessa, MO 816.393.0001 $$ D3 I70MotorSportsPark.com Outdoor motorsports track with races in the spring, summer and fall. 56 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
C3
KU Athletics
KC Comets 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 888.926.6387 $$ KCComets.com Kansas City’s indoor soccer team.
C3
D3
KC Mavericks 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.252.7825 $$ D3 KCMavericks.com KC’s minor league ice hockey team offers family excitement.
1651 Naismith Dr. Lawrence, KS 785.864.8200 $$ A3 KUAthletics.com College teams for the University of Kansas, including basketball, football, baseball, cross country, track and field.
Kansas City Current 1460 E. Front St., KC, MO 913.374.0233 $$ C3 KansasCityCurrent.com American professional women’s soccer team.
PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • Kansas City Monarchs
Bowlero
Olathe Lanes East
Sterling Bowl
1800 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.328.5618 $$ A3 MonarchsBaseball.com The home of the Kansas City Monarchs Baseball Club, the 2021 American Association of Independent Professional Baseball champions.
College Lanes: 10201 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.451.6400 $ Bowlero.com
303 N. Lindenwood Dr. Olathe, KS 913.764.4568 $ OLEast.com
11216 E. 24 Hwy. Sugar Creek, MO 816.252.2111 SterlingBowl.com
Kansas Speedway 400 Speedway Blvd., KC, KS 866.460.7223 $$ A3 KansasSpeedway.com NASCAR races, car shows and classic car races offer plenty of excitement.
Lakeside Speedway 5615 Wolcott Dr., KC, KS 913.299.9206 $ A3 LakesideSpeedway.net The half-mile dirt track is part of NASCAR’s weekly racing series.
MU Athletics Plays at multiple locations. 1 Champions Dr. Columbia, MO 800.228.7297 $$ D3 MUTigers.com College teams for the University of Missouri, including basketball, football, baseball, cross country, track and field.
B4
A5
$
Diamond Bowl
Park Lanes
Summit Lanes
218 N. Osage St. Indep, MO 816.252.8003 $ Diamond-Bowl.com
Family Fun Center 7701 Renner Rd. Shawnee, KS 913.248.1110 ParkLanesKC.com
803 SW Oldham Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.3322 $ SummitLanes.com
D3
Gladstone Bowl 300 NW 72nd St. Gladstone, MO 816.436.2695 $ GladstoneBowl.net
$
A4
Pinstripes
KC Bowl
13500 Nall Ave., OP, KS 913.681.2255 $ B5 Pinstripes.com In addition to bowling, enjoy bocce and bistro.
8201 State Ave., KC, KS 913.299.1110 $ KCBowl.com
Premier Bowling & Recreation Center
C2
A3
11400 E. 350 Hwy., Raytown, MO 816.356.5955 $ C3 PremierBowl.com
Lunar Bowl 2001 NW 7 Hwy. Blue Springs, MO 816.220.7722 LunarBowl.com
$
D3
Mission Bowl 1020 S. Weaver St. Olathe, KS 913.782.0279 MissionBowl.com
$
A5
Retro Bowl 906 W. Liberty Dr. Liberty, MO 816.781.1998 $ D2 Facebook.com/Retro.Bowl This location also offers batting cages, billiards and more.
D3
D4
Ward Parkway Lanes 1523 W. 89th St., KC, MO 816.363.2700 $ WardParkwayLanes.com
C3
GO SWIM
Indoor Pools & Aquatic Centers Blue Valley Rec Aquatic Center 6545 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.685.6000 $ BlueValleyRec.org
B5
Gladstone Community Center 6901 N. Holmes St. Gladstone, MO 816.423.4200 $ Gladstone.MO.us
C2
Sporting KC 1 Sporting Way, KC, KS 913.387.3400 $$ A3 SportingKC.com Cheer for KC’s outdoor soccer team.
UMKC Kangaroos Various locations $$ C3 KCRoos.com College teams include basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, cross country, track and field and volleyball.
GO BOWLING Aaron’s Family Fun Center 17070 Aaron Ln. Belton, MO 816.322.0488 AaronsFEC.com
$
C5
Kansas Speedway KCGOINGPLACES.COM 57
• SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS Southeast Community Center: 4201 E. 63rd St., KC, MO 816.513.0632 $ C3 Tony Aguirre Community Center: 2050 W. Pennway, KC, MO 816.513.8530 $ KCParks.org
C3
KC YMCA
Atchison Family YMCA: 321 Commercial, Atchison, KS 913.367.4948 $ A1 Bonner Springs Family YMCA: 2251 S. 138th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.9348 $ A2
Platte County Community Center South: 8875 Clark Ave., Parkville, MO 816.505.2622 $ B2
2400 Jefferson Pkwy. Harrisonville, MO 816.380.8980 $ ci.Harrisonville.MO.us
C5
Henley Aquatic Center 18200 E. MO 78 Hwy. Indep, MO 816.521.5377 $ D3 sites.ISDSchools.org/Henley
58 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
Providence YMCA/ Ball Family Center: 8601 Parallel Pkwy., KC, KS 913.378.9622 $
KC MO Parks & Rec Community Centers with Indoor Pools Gregg Klice Community Center: 1600 John “Buck” O’Neil Way KC, MO 816.513.0652 $ C3
B4
Merriam Community Center
1205 E. Kansas City Rd. Olathe, KS 913.971.8563 $-$$ OlatheKS.org
16400 N. Mullen Rd. Belton, MO 816.348.7400 $ BeltonParks.org
B5
8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 $ OPKansas.org
Paul Henson Family YMCA: 4200 W. 79th St. Prairie Village, KS 913.642.6800 $ B4
10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 800.608.9653 $$ A3 GreatWolf.com Enjoy a four-story interactive tree house, winding lazy river and numerous waterslides.
5801 W. 115th St., OP, KS 913.327.8000 $ TheJKC.org
Matt Ross Community Center
Olathe Community Center and Stagecoach Park
High Blue Wellness Center
Harrisonville Community Center
D2
Olathe Family YMCA: 21400 W. 153rd St., Olathe, KS 913.393.9622 $ A5
Great Wolf Lodge
Jewish Community Center of Greater KC
Liberty, MO Community Center
North Kansas City YMCA: 1999 Iron St., North KC, MO 816.300.0531 $ C3
C3
Platte County Community Center North: 3101 Running Horse Platte City, MO 816.858.0114 $
C5
A4
6040 Slater St. Merriam, KS Merriam.org 913.322.5550 $ B4 Merriam Community Center is a one-of-a-kind, year-round destination for fitness, indoor and outdoor aquatics, classes and events.
Linwood YMCA: 3800 E. Linwood Blvd., KC, MO 816.923.5675 $ C3
Kansas City Royals
17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.477.7529 $ Lenexa.com
1600 S. Withers Rd. Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ ci.Liberty.MO.us
Locations with Indoor Pools KansasCityYMCA.org
Cleaver Family YMCA: 7000 Troost Ave., KC, MO 816.285.9622 $
Lenexa Rec Center Pool
Red Bridge Family YMCA: 11300 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.942.2020 $
Park Hill Aquatic Center A1
A2
C5
Legacy Park Community Center 901 NE Bluestem Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1550 $ CityOfLS.net
A5
D4
8152 N. Congress Ave. KC, MO 816.359.4080 $ Parkhill.K12.MO.us
B1
Roeland Park Aquatic Center 4843 Rosewood Dr. Roeland Park, KS 913.742.7006 $ RoelandPark.net
B3
Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center 6200 Martway St. Mission, KS 913.722.8200 MissionKS.org
$
B3
$
C5
The View 13500 Byars Rd. Grandview, MO 816.316.4888 Grandview.org
PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • GO SWIM
Outdoor Pools & Water Parks Adventure Oasis Water Park 2100 S. Hub Dr. Indep, MO 816.325.7843 $-$$ D3 ci.Independence.MO.us Water park with three waterslides, pool, lazy river and more.
The Bay Water Park 7101 Longview Rd. KC, MO 816.965.9218 $ C4 TheBayKC.com A zero-entry pool, lap pool, lazy river and waterslides.
Black Bob Bay 14570 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 913.971.5345 $-$$ B4 OlatheKS.org Features include raft waterslides, a lazy river, shallow water play structures, a dive well, a 50-meter pool and a baby pool.
Blue Surf Bay 425 NE Mock Ave. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0137 $-$$ D3 BlueSpringsGov.com State-of-the-art indoor/outdoor facility. Features include wave ball pool, lazy river, slides, zerodepth pool, surf simulator and lifestyle wellness pools.
Bluejacket Pool 10101 Bond, OP, KS 913.327.5671 $-$$ B3 OPKansas.org Features include a 15-foot-tall waterslide, 3-meter and 1-meter diving boards and zero-depth entry youth pool with a dolphin waterslide.
Bonner Springs Aquatic Park 1200 S. 134th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.7011 $ A3 BonnerSprings.org The aquatic park features a zero-depth entry pool, 25-meter lap pool, floatable pods, water playground, diving boards, waterslides and basketball goal.
Fairway Swimming Pool
KCMO Parks Outdoor Pools
62nd & Mission Road Fairway, KS 913.722.3161 $ B3 FairwayKansas.org This location features a pool with two designated lap lanes, high and low diving boards, an 11-foot slide and a fenced 12-inch-deep wading pool for toddlers to play.
Ashland Square Pool: 23rd & Elmwood, KC, MO 816.350.2628 $
C3
Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.0730 $ C3 Budd Park: 5600 Budd Park Esplanade KC, MO 816.350.2628 $
C3
15909 W. 127th St. Olathe, KS 913.971.5349 $-$$ B4 OlatheKS.org/ParksRec Features include a waterslide, zero-depth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.
Gorman Pool: 101 NE 47th St., KC, MO 816.350.2628 $
C3
Grove Park Pool: Truman Rd. & Benton Blvd. KC, MO 816.350.2628 $
C3
Gardner Aquatic Park
Jarboe Park Pool: 16th & Jarboe, KC, MO 816.350.2628 $
C3
Frontier Pool
Cornerstone Park: 215 N. Center Gardner, KS 913.856.0962 $ B5 GardnerKansas.gov/pool Special amenities include zerodepth entry, an active in-water play area, lazy river, multiple waterslides, floatable walk, climbing nets, spraygrounds and a tot pool.
Gladstone Municipal Pool Central Park: 7011 N. Holmes Gladstone, MO 816.423.4200 $ C2 Gladstone.MO.us This pool features zero-depth entry, sprayground, dumping bucket, open flume slide and a drop slide.
Grain Valley Aquatic Center 713 S. Main Grain Valley, MO 816.847.6230 $ D3 CityOfGrainValley.org Features include a zero-depth entry pool and waterslides. Swim lessons are offered also.
KC Watersports 25825 Edgemore Rd. Paola, KS 913.783.4300 $ A3 KCWatersports.com KC Watersports is the best wakeboarding destination in the Midwest.
1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ D1 ci.Liberty.MO.us This location boasts two outdoor pools, including a children’s fountain pool and two indoor pools.
Merriam Aquatic Center 6040 Slater, Merriam, KS 913.322.5518 $$ B3 Merriam.org Offers zero-depth entry, diving boards, a zip line and more.
Mill Creek Pool
Line Creek Community Center Pool: 5940 NE Waukomis Dr., KC, MO 816.513.076 $ B2 Swope Park Pool: 6700 Lewis Rd., KC, MO 816.350.2628 $ C3 KCParks.org Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at KC Parks pools.
Leawood Aquatic Center 10601 Lee Blvd. Leawood, KS 913.327.3977 $-$$ B3 Leawood.org Olympic size 50-meter pool, with youth pool, fountains and slides.
Lenexa Parks and Rec Outdoor Pools Ad Astra Pool: 8265 Maurer Rd. Lenexa, KS 913.492.7946
Liberty Community Center Pools
$
B3
Flat Rock Creek Pool: 13120 W. 103rd St. Lenexa, KS 913.888.3202 $
B3
Indian Trails Aquatic Center: 8801 Greenway Ln. Lenexa, KS 913.888.4659 $ B3 ci.Lenexa.KS.us Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at Lenexa’s pools.
320 E. Poplar, Olathe, KS 913.971.5337 $-$$ B4 OlatheKS.org Offers zero-depth entry, a lap pool, dive well, waterslide and spray features.
Mission Family Aquatic Center 5930 W. 61st St., Mission, KS 913.722.8209 $-$$ B3 MissionKS.org This large outdoor pool also has an additional kiddie pool.
• FEATURED LISTING • Oceans of Fun
See ad on pg. 67 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave. KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 WorldsOfFun.com With waves ranging from mild to wild, Oceans of Fun offers 60 acres of summer fun for the whole family! Enjoy the wave pool, lazy river, extreme water slides or the kid-friendly Splash Island. These splash-tastic attractions are open seasonally and are included with Worlds of Fun admission.
•
Oregon Trail Pool 1750 W. Dennis Olathe, KS 913.971.5348 $-$$ B4 OlatheKS.org Features include a waterslide, zero-depth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 59
• SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS Parkwood Swimming Pool
The Springs Aquatic Center
Young’s Pool
950 Quindaro Blvd., KC, KS 913.551.0402 $ B2 WYCoKCK.org With daily admission at only $1, this is one of the most affordable pools in the metro.
9400 N. Congress Ave. KC, MO 816.880.0279 $ B2 TheSpringsKC.com Two waterslides, a lazy river with a vortex, two splash playgrounds, a zero-depth entry pool with play features and an Olympic size 50-meter competitive pool.
8421 W. 77th St. OP, KS 913.327.5676 $-$$ B3 OPKansas.org Overland Park’s only Olympic size pool, and a 200-foot flume body slide, diving boards, zerodepth pool with fountains and youth pool with slides.
Stonegate Pool
GO ROLLER-SKATE
Prairie Village Pool Complex 7711 Delmar, Prairie Village, KS 913.385.4650 $ B3 PVKansas.com The complex features two waterslides and the plunge pool, zero-depth entrances to the leisure and wading pools, large pool deck area, tubing, lap pool and therapeutic whirlpool.
Riverside Community Center Pool 4498 NW High Dr., Riverside, MO 816.587.7801 $ B2 RiversideMO.com The 3,750-square-foot pool features a zero-depth entrance for the little ones, diving boards for the bigger kids and a splash and play area for everyone.
Roeland Park Aquatic Center 4843 Rosewood Dr. Roeland Park, KS 913.432.1377 $ B3 RoelandPark.net Features include a 50-meter inverted “C”-shaped pool with a 25-yard-by-25-meter competitive area, a dive well, an inflatable slide, four 50-meter lap lanes and a children’s area.
Sar-Ko-Par Aquatic Center 8801 Greenway Ln., Lenexa, KS 913.888,4659 $-$$ A4 Lenexa.com Zero-depth entry pool, climbable play feature with dump bucket, lazy river, eightlane 25-meter competition pool, deep water alcove, two aquaclimb climbing walls, waterslide complex and more.
Splash Cove 5800 King Ave., Shawnee, KS 913.631.7177 $-$$ B4 CityOfShawnee.org Splash Cove features a mini wave pool, 125-foot full body slide, interactive playground features, instructional pool, WiFi access and a party cabana. 60 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
9701 Antioch OP, KS 913.327.5674 $-$$ B3 OPKansas.org Features include a 22-foot-high spiral waterslide, a 1-meter diving board, a youth pool with fountain features, a 25-meter lap lane and more than 25 feet of zero-depth area.
Summit Waves 120 SW Blue Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1545 $-$$ C3 CityOfLS.net Features a 904-foot action river, body slide, tube slide, six-lane lap pool with diving boards, a water playground area featuring mini-slides and more.
Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center 13805 Johnson Dr. Shawnee, KS 913.631.0054 $ A4 CityOfShawnee.org Features an eight-lane, 50-meter pool, diving boards, two body slides, a lazy river, vortex, interactive aquatic features, enclosed baby pool area with water playground.
Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center 11950 Lowell OP, KS 913.327.5675 $-$$ B3 OPKansas.org Features a zero-depth entry, cooling fountains, diving boards, a 60-foot-long family slide and a twisting slide, 25-meter lap lane, youth pool and a large sand area for playing.
$
D2
Olahrama 13903 E. Noland Ct. Indep, MO 816.252.1084 $ Olahrama.com
D3
Rink Ratz 513 SW Keystone Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.229.7793 $ Rink-Ratz.com
D4
C2
A3
Skate City Overland Park 10440 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.888.6668 $ SkateCityKansas.com
B3
Winnwood Skate Center 4426 NE Winn Rd., KC, MO 816.452.1171 $ WinnwoodSk8.com
Independence Community Ice 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.442.6128 $ D3 IndependenceCommunityIce.com Enjoy year-round skating at the indoor ice rink.
19900 Johnson Dr. Shawnee Mission, KS 913.441.3033 $ KCIceCenter.com An indoor ice-skating rink.
B3
5940 NW Waukomis Dr. KC, MO 816.513.0760 $ C2 KCMO.org Indoor ice-skating rink offers family fun.
Snow Creek Ski Area B4
Skate City Shawnee 9800 W. 62nd Ter. Shawnee, KS 913.262.0711 $ SkateCityKansas.com
11565 Ash St. Leawood, KS 913.663.2070 $ B5 ParkPlaceLeawood.com The Ice at Park Place is the only outdoor ice rink in Johnson County.
Line Creek Ice Rink
Skate City West 7838 Washington Ave. KC, KS 913.788.7788 $ SkateCityWest.com
2425 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.8411 $ C3 CrownCenter.com Kansas City’s only outdoor iceskating rink opens for its 50th season on Nov. 4 and is open through mid-March.
KC Ice Center
River Roll Skate Center 4720 NW Gateway Ave. Riverside, MO 816.587.0131 $ RiverRoll.com
Crown Center Ice Terrace
The Ice at Park Place
Northland Rolladium 1020 Kent St. Liberty, MO 816.792.0590 SkateLiberty.net
GO ICE-SKATE & SNOW SKI
C2
1 Snow Creek Dr., Weston, MO 816.640.2200 $$ A1 Man-made snow is used for this ski area where you may enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
Summit Ice 120 NE Chipman Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.249.2600 $ KCIce.net A new outdoor ice rink for skating, hockey, curling and broom ball.
D4
PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • GO LEARN ABOUT SPORTS
Sports and Motorsports Museums College Basketball Experience 1401 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.949.7500 $ C3 CollegeBasketballExperience.com Hands-on exhibits place visitors in game-like situations.
exhibitions, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves the history of Black American baseball.
•
Royals Hall of Fame Kauffman Stadium 1 Royal Way, KC, MO 816.921.8000 $ C3 MLB.com/Royals A venue that traces the history of Royals baseball.
Chicken N Pickle 1761 Burlington, North KC, MO 816.537.1400 $-$$ B3 5901 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.703.5950 $-$$ B5 ChickenNPickle.com Play pickleball, grab a healthy bite to eat or enjoy lawn games.
EPIC Center KC
Kansas City Auto Museum
GO PLAY SPORTS
15095 W. 116th St. Olathe, KS 913.322.4227 $ B5 KansasCityAutoMuseum.com A new museum honoring Kansas City’s automotive manufacturing and collector community.
19310 E. 50th Ter., Indep, MO 816.795.7171 $ D3 EpicCenterKC.com The 70,000-square-foot facility offers youth and adult indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball and flag football.
Blackbob Batting Adventures
Fieldhouse of Blue Springs
14570 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.254.7409 $ A5 BlackbobPark.com Outdoor batting cages and outdoor miniature golf.
425 NE Mock Ave. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0137 $ D3 BlueSpringsGov.com Indoor batting cages, indoor blacklight miniature golf, throwing tunnels and more.
• FEATURED LISTING • Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
See ad on pg. 65 1616 E. 18th St. KC, MO 816.221.1920 $ C3 NLBM.com Founded in 1990, the 10,000square-foot Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves the rich history of Black American baseball. Experience a tour of multimedia displays, museum store, hundreds of photographs and artifacts dating from the late 1800s through the 1960s. Through educational programming and innovative
Sports Complexes, Batting Cages and Golf
Blue Valley Rec Batting Cages 9701 W. 137th St., OP, KS 913.685.6030 $ B5 BlueValleyRec.org Hit at outdoor batting cages.
Canyon Farms Golf Club 17501 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.529.2235 $ B4 CanyonFarmsGolfClub.com Canyon Farms Golf Club’s stateof-the-art clubhouse and unique course make it the perfect country club!
Fowling Warehouse 1020 W 103rd St., KC, MO 816.816.3695 $ C5 FowlingWarehouse.com Indoor game as competitors throw a football at 10 bowling pins.
Golf Ranch 1501 US-40, Lee’s Summit, MO 816.622.9080 $$ D4 GolfRanchUSA.com A place to practice or a place to play. Experience Toptracer golf bays, miniature golf and fun.
Mac-N-Seitz Baseball & Softball 13705 Holmes Rd. KC, MO 816.942.9992 $ C5 MacNSeitz.com Two major league-size infields, two full-size bullpens, indoor batting cages and more.
Mid-America Sports Complex 20000 Johnson Dr. Shawnee, KS 913.826.2903 $ A4 JCPRD.com Outdoor batting cages offer up fun and practice.
SERV 9051 Metcalf Ave. OP, KS 913.300.1418 $-$$ B5 ServFun.com Indoor pickleball courts and restaurant.
Shoal Creek Driving Range & Batting Cages 5757 NE 96th St. KC, MO 816.734.9595 $ C1 ShoalCreekDrivingRange.com Visit the outdoor batting cages and golf course.
T-Shotz 660 NW Metro North Dr. KC, MO 816.702.1320 $$ B1 TShotz.com T-Shotz is Kansas City’s locally owned, next-generation golf and entertainment venue.
Tom Urquhart’s School of Baseball 7875 Mastin Dr. OP, KS 913.385.2255 $ B4 385Ball.com Indoor pitching tunnels, batting cages and field.
Topgolf
KC Mavericks
10611 Nall Ave. OP, KS 913.562.9713 $-$$ B4 Topgolf.com/us Features 102 bays over three floors. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 61
BEACHES
JACKSON COUNTY, MO, LAKES (MakeYourDayHere.com) Blue Springs Lake (1500 NE Bowlin Rd., Lee’s Summit) offers a swim beach, fishing, power boating, water skiing, tubing and jet skiing. Boat rental is available. Lake Jacomo (7401 W. Park Rd., Blue Springs) is a 970-acre lake known for colorful sailboat regattas, as well as leisurely pontoon boat rides. Fishing is very popular at this lake, and boat rental is available. Longview Lake (9898 Longview Rd., Kansas City) offers a swim beach with an inflatable floating obstacle course, fishing and boat rental.
AND
BOATING
JOHNSON COUNTY, KS, LAKES (JCPRD.com) Shawnee Mission Park Lake (7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee) features a 120-acre lake with swimming beach and marina. Kill Creek Lake (11670 Homestead Ln., Olathe) offers a swim beach and boat rental for fishing.
Lake Olathe
T
he metro’s newest lake is found in Lake Olathe Park (191 N. Ward Cliff Dr., Olathe, KS). The beautiful 170-acre lake is surrounded by a 258-acre community park and is popular for fishing, swimming and boating (OlatheKS.org). You may also enjoy free rental of a canoe, paddle boat or bicycle and enjoy the beautiful 22-acre lake and trail at Legacy Park in Lee’s Summit, MO (CityOfLS.net). Other great local lakes to enjoy for boating, fishing and swimming:
ADDITIONAL LOCAL LAKES Smithville Lake Beach (16311 County Rd. DD, Smithville, MO). This 7,190-acre lake features marinas, fishing and a swim beach. VisitClayMO.com Watkins Woolen Mill State Park Lake (26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO) is a 100-acre lake with a paved bicycle path, fishing, campground, swim beach and picnic spots. MOStateParks.com
.com Authentic Kansas City photography that inspires brands, enriches projects, and integrates beautifully into decor.
SCAN TO SHOP
62 KC GOING PLACES | 2025
KCPARENT.COM 25 ways to make the most of your stay in Kansas City with a little help from KCParent.com
1. Festival Guide 2. Calendar of Events 3. Virtual Going Places Guide 4. Coupons for Local Attractions 5. FREE Fun Guide 6. Holiday Guides 7. 100 Things to Do with Kids in KC
8. Reunion Ideas 9. 50 Ideas Under $5 10. Water Fun Guide 11. Farmers Markets 12. Top Picks for Fun Every Month 13. Animal Outings 14. Local Attractions and Show Reviews
15. Kids Eat Free Guide 16. Day Trips from KC 17. Midwestern Waterfalls 18. U-Pick Farms 19. Favorite Fishing Spots 20. Thrill-Seekers: Adventures in Kansas City
21. Camping Missouri and Kansas 22. KC Streetcar Scavenger Hunt 23. Great Giveaways 24. Be sure to subscribe to the free e-newsletter on KCParent.com for great ideas weekly.
25. And follow Kansas City Parent Magazine on Facebook for up-to-date info!
KCGOINGPLACES.COM 63
THE BEST PLAYGROUND
Slide s
IN KANSAS CITY
These playgrounds are home to some of the tallest, fastest and most unique slides in the Kansas City metro! Arno Park
Concourse Park (Kansas City, Mo.)— Grab a blanket and take a ride down the colossal embankment slides at Concourse Park. The slides are wide enough for the whole family to fly down together, and they lead directly to a playground where you’ll find climbing structures, swings and shorter slides for little ones. In the warmer months, you can cool off by running through the park’s fountains. Arno Park (Kansas City, Mo.)—Since undergoing renovations in 2023, Arno Park has delighted visitors of all ages with its enormous blue slide. A built-in climbing net leads to the top of the slide, where children can coast down the wide, rubbery surface. Beneath the slide you’ll find additional ropes and swinging features to play on. The park also contains smaller slides for younger children, a seesaw, spinning chairs, a tunnel and a climbing hill. Lowenstein Park (Lee’s Summit)— Three towering purple slides serve as the centerpiece of this nature-themed park. Kids will particularly love spiraling down the corkscrew slide. Other popular attractions include an assortment of climbing structures, a raccoon spring rocker, accessible swings and toddler slides. While the kids play, adults can enjoy the park’s fitness equipment.
Lowenstein Park
Little Mill Creek North Park
Valley Park (Grandview)—If your children are thrill-seekers, Valley Park is the place to go! After scaling a netted tower, kids will reach the entrance to a 55-foot-long slide that sends riders zooming past the trees at seven miles per hour. Park-goers also rave about the park’s long zip line, saucer swings, giant musical instruments and various climbing apparatuses.
Little Mill Creek North Park (Lenexa)—This park boasts the two tallest slides in Lenexa! These massive green slides look like giants next to the others in the park and provide an exhilarating experience for older kids. The park also has a zip line, merry-goround, climbing net, swing set and separate play area for toddlers.
Anna Hiestand resides in Blue Springs with her family. She has a passion for writing, art and cinema.
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