Kansas City, Missouri, is famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, vibrant jazz scene, and impressive fountains, but it also boasts a plethora of family-friendly attractions that are simply delightful. With so many options, it can be tough to decide where to begin! To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the most exciting things to do in Kansas City with children.
Kid-Friendly Attractions in Kansas City
The Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City is a fantastic spot that blends fun with education through art, science, and literature. With interactive exhibits like a farm, a raceway, and a veterinary clinic, it’s perfect for younger kids, especially those aged 8 and under.
Looking to help your little ones experience the thrill of flight? iFly Kansas City, located in nearby Overland Park, offers indoor skydiving for kids aged 3 and up, making it an accessible adventure for the whole family.
At Sea Life Kansas City, your kids will be enchanted by the underwater wonders. They can even reach into the rockpool to touch sea stars and urchins or unleash their creativity at Doodle Reef, where they can draw their own sea creatures and watch them swim.
Science City, situated in Union Station, is another excellent destination. With a dino dig, demo area, maker studio, and the 4K Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, learning becomes an exciting adventure for everyone.
For a creative outlet, head to Kaleidoscope, where all materials are provided by Hallmark. These 50-minute sessions are completely free and a great way to spark your child’s imagination!
The Coterie Theater has been entertaining families for 40 years with kid-friendly performances, acting classes for all ages, and a playwright’s club for teens.
Best Family Restaurants in Kansas City
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant has been a family favorite since 1954. With three locations, kids will be mesmerized as electric trains deliver their meals right to the table after ordering from a phone at their seats.
At Nick and Jake’s, which has four locations, the diverse kids’ menu is divided into “Little Leaguers” and “Big Leaguers,” ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Plus, parents can enjoy a selection of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails.
You simply can’t visit Kansas City without indulging in some barbecue! Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue has multiple locations, and kids under 10 can enjoy a meal combo for just $6.99.
The vibrant Crayola Café in Crown Center is another hit, where kids can choose from a variety of dishes like hot dogs, grilled cheese, and mac-n-cheese, all served with fun sides.
While you’re in the Crown Center, don’t miss Chip’s Chocolate Factory, which offers over 200 delightful treats. Be sure to schedule a tour to see the chocolate-making process firsthand.
Best Hotels in Kansas City for Families
The Great Wolf Lodge is an attraction in itself, featuring a massive indoor and outdoor waterpark. Families can get day passes or stay in one of the cozy suites tailored for all pack sizes.
The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center caters to families with adjoining rooms, room service, and a kids’ club that provides local activity guides and a fun play area.
Worlds of Fun Village offers a range of accommodations, from cottages to RV sites, and grants discounted entry to the Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun theme parks.
Outdoor Family Activities in Kansas City
One of the top outings in Kansas City is visiting the Kansas City Zoo, a 202-acre nature sanctuary filled with thousands of animals. Kids aged 7 and older can even sign up for a Keeper for a Day experience, plus enjoy an endangered species carousel and the thrilling African Sky Safari.
Paradise Park offers endless fun with batting cages, bumper cars, escape rooms, go-karts, mini-golf, and rock climbing – perfect for tiring out the whole family!
For those seeking adrenaline, Worlds of Fun amusement park has thrilling rides for big kids and over 20 attractions for the little ones. Admission includes access to the Oceans of Fun waterpark, featuring slides for all ages.
Teach your kids about farm life at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, where they can have fun bottle-feeding baby goats or milking cows.
Swope Park, which is twice the size of New York’s Central Park, offers plenty of space to explore, with the zoo, golf courses, hiking trails, and lakes to discover.
Museums for Kids in Kansas City
Introduce your kids to the world of finance at the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, where self-guided tours are free.
For a meaningful experience, visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial, featuring a scavenger hunt and audio tour to engage young minds with history.
Remind the little ones that not every toy is electronic at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, or catch a show at the Mesner Puppet Theater.
Don’t forget to enjoy a local sports game! Kansas City is home to the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, MLB’s Kansas City Royals, and MLS’s Sporting Kansas City, offering fun year-round.
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In summary, Kansas City is packed with exciting and educational activities for families to enjoy together, from interactive museums to thrilling amusement parks and delicious dining options.

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