Looking for something fun to do in Kansas City with the kids?
Check out our list of 15 great ideas!
From exploring the city’s history to getting active outdoors, there is something for everyone on this list.
And best of all, most of these activities are free or affordable.
So get out and explore Kansas City with your family!
#1. American Jazz Museum — 18th & Vine
Kansas City is a great place to raise a family, and there are plenty of fun things to do with kids in the area. One of the most popular attractions is the American Jazz Museum, which is located in the historic 18th & Vine district.
The museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that are perfect for families with kids. In addition to exploring the history of jazz, visitors can also enjoy live music performances, film screenings, and educational programs.
And if you’re looking for something truly unique, be sure to check out the museum’s collection of rare and vintage instruments. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting for a weekend, the American Jazz Museum is a great place to enjoy some quality time with your family.
#2. Arabia Steamboat Museum — River Market
Kansas City’s Arabia Steamboat Museum is a must-see for any history buff – or anyone who loves a good adventure story. The museum tells the tale of Arabia, a steamboat that sank in the Missouri River in 1856.
The boat was carrying tons of cargo, including clothes, dishes, and other everyday items. Amazingly, the boat was rediscovered in 1988, and its cargo was perfectly preserved.
Today, visitors can see some of the recovered items on display at the museum. The Arabia Steamboat Museum is located in Kansas City’s River Market district, just a short walk from the site of the original sinking.
The district is also home to a variety of other attractions, including shops, restaurants, and parks. Whether you’re looking to learn about Kansas City’s rich history or just enjoy a day out with the kids, the River Market district is the perfect place to explore.
#3. CoCo Key Water Resort — Mount Laurel
Kids love to splash around and have fun in the water, and what could be more fun than a tropical-themed water resort right in the heart of Kansas City? CoCo Key Water Resort is perfect for a day (or even a weekend) of family fun.
The resort features an expansive water park with slides, a lazy river, and a huge kiddie pool area. There’s also an arcade and game room, plus a full-service restaurant and bar for when you need to take a break from all the fun.
And best of all, kids ages 3 and under are always free! So whether you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day or just want to have some fun with the kids, CoCo Key Water Resort is the perfect place to be.
#4. Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead — Overland Park
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is a 12-acre park that includes a petting zoo, fishing ponds, playgrounds, gardens, and a vintage farmhouse.
The farmstead is located in Overland Park, Kansas, and is open year-round. Admission is free, making it a great option for families on a budget.
During the summer months, the farmstead hosts a variety of events and programs, including camps, school field trips, and birthday parties. Visitors can also take part in select hands-on activities, such as milking cows and collecting eggs.
In addition to being a fun place to visit, the farmstead also serves as an educational resource for the community. Through its programs and events, the farmstead provides opportunities for people of all ages to learn about agriculture and animal husbandry.
#5. iFly — Overland Park
Kids love to fly, and at iFly, they can experience the thrill of flight in a safe and fun environment. iFly is an indoor skydiving center that offers a variety of flying experiences for kids of all ages.
There are wavier heights for little ones and more advanced tunnels for older kids. There’s even a vertical wind tunnel where kids can experience the sensation of free-fall.
At iFly, kids can safely explore their sense of adventure while enjoying the excitement of flight. And with locations all over the world, there’s sure to be an iFly near you. So what are you waiting for? Let your kids experience the thrill of flight today at iFly.
#6. Kaleidoscope — Crown Center
There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Kansas City, but one activity that’s sure to please is a visit to Kaleidoscope at Crown Center. This hands-on exhibit is based on the book “The Little Red Hen,” Kaleidoscope teaches kids about cooperation and working together.
With three different activity areas, there’s something for everyone at this exhibit. In the “Little Red Hen” area, kids can help plant wheat and grind flour.
In the “Duckling Diner” area, they can learn about food safety by preparing meals for the ducks. And in the ” farmer’s Market” area, they can harvest vegetables and fruits. With so much to see and do, Kaleidoscope is a great place to spend a day with the kids.
#7. Kansas City Parks and Recreation — Midwest
Kansas City is home to a variety of parks and recreational activities that are perfect for families. One of the most popular destinations is the Kansas City Zoo, which features over 200 species of animals.
The zoo also offers a number of educational programs, such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. For something, a little different, families can explore the National Air and Space Museum at Union Station.
The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theater. Families can also enjoy a day at Crown Center, which is home to a number of shops and restaurants, as well as the world-renowned Hallmark Visitors Center.
No matter what interests your family has, Kansas City has a park or activity that is sure to please.
#8. Kansas City Public Library: Central Library — Downtown Kansas City
If you’re looking for a fun, educational activity to do with your kids in Kansas City, look no further than the Central Library of the Kansas City Public Library system.
This library is located downtown and has a variety of things to offer kids of all ages. There are several floors of books to explore, as well as a computer lab, a maker space, and a roof garden.
The library also offers programs and events for kids throughout the year. Whether your children are interested in story time, arts and crafts, or simply exploring all the different books and resources the library has to offer, they’re sure to have a blast at the Central Library.
#9. Kansas City Zoo — Swope Park
Located in historic Swope Park, the Kansas City Zoo is one of the city’s most beloved attractions. With over 200 acres of land, the zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals, representing over 500 species.
Visitors can explore African plains, the Australian outback, and North American ecosystems, all within a short drive from downtown Kansas City.
Kids will love getting up close and personal with elephants, lions, and alligators, while older children can learn about conservation efforts at the on-site education center.
The Kansas City Zoo is also home to a popular train ride and carousel, making it the perfect place to spend a day with the family.
#10. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art — Southmoreland
Located in the historic Southmoreland neighborhood, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is a great place to take kids for a day of art appreciation.
The museum features a rotating selection of exhibitions, as well as a hands-on activity area for kids. And best of all, admission is free. Kids will love exploring the different galleries and trying out the various art projects.
After working up an appetite, be sure to stop by the onsite cafe for a bite to eat. With its kid-friendly atmosphere and ample opportunities for learning, the Kemper Museum is a great choice for a day out with the kids.
#11. National WWI Museum and Memorial — Crown Center
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is the only museum in the United States devoted to telling the story of the Great War. Located in Crown Center, the museum features a variety of interactive exhibits that bring the history of WWI to life.
Families can explore replica trenches, view never-before-seen artifacts, and learn about the personal stories of those who served. The museum also offers a wide range of educational programs for kids, making it a great place to learn about this important time in history.
Best of all, admission is free for children under 12. So whether you’re looking for a fun day out or a chance to learn about America’s past, be sure to add the National WWI Museum and Memorial to your list of places to visit in Kansas City.
#12. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum — 18th & Vine
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a fun and educational place to take the kids in Kansas City. The museum tells the story of African American baseball players who were excluded from playing in the major leagues from 1876 until 1947.
The museum has interactive exhibits, like a batting cage, and offers tours led by former Negro League players. The museum is located in the historic 18th & Vine district, which is also home to jazz clubs, restaurants, and shops.
Taking the kids to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a great way to introduce them to Kansas City’s rich history and culture.
#13. Science City — Union Station
Located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Science City is a hands-on science museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. With interactive exhibits on biology, physics, and other scientific disciplines, Science City offers something for everyone.
For budding young scientists, there are opportunities to learn about genetic engineering, build their own roller coasters, and launch rockets.
And for those who just want to have fun, there are plenty of ways to do that too. With a planetarium, a 3D theater, and a kid-friendly cafe, Science City is the perfect place to spend a day with the family.
#14. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art — Country Club Plaza
Kids love art! They are fascinated by the vibrant colors, fun shapes, and interesting stories that paintings and sculptures can tell. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City is the perfect place to take kids to explore the world of art.
Not only does the museum have a wide variety of artwork on display, but it also offers many interactive programs and activities for kids. On weekends, the museum offers art classes for kids of all ages, and there is also a special Kids Club where kids can learn about art and make their own creations.
In addition, the museum is located in the beautiful Country Club Plaza district, which is full of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. As a result, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is the perfect place to take kids for a day of fun and learning.
#15. Zip KC — Northeastern Kansas
When it comes to finding fun things to do in Kansas City with kids, look no further than Zip KC! This family-friendly zip line park offers an exhilarating experience for both kids and adults.
Situated in northeastern Kansas, Zip KC features six different courses, each with its own set of challenges. The courses range in difficulty from beginner to expert, so there’s something for everyone.
And if that isn’t enough to get your heart racing, the park also offers a free-fall jump! For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the park also has a picnic area and a playground.
So whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a peaceful place to enjoy a meal with your family, Zip KC has you covered.