Best of May

May in Kansas City! Strawberries are begging to be picked. Roller coasters are ready to ride! And, it's baseball season! Our Top Picks for May are here: 

Note: We are looking forward to each event on this list. They are numbered to correspond with their position on the map, not in order of preference. We love them all.

• Worlds of Fun: Opening Day 2021

  Worlds of Fun opens for the season on May 22! Enjoy Kansas City’s amusement park with 235 acres of family rides, thrill rides, and waterslides, including seven world-class rollercoasters and admission Oceans of Fun, the city’s first waterpark.

  Your senses come alive as you enter the gate, the sights and sounds take over, and the little ones in your family take your hand. Breathtaking views from towering coasters, hair-raising thrill rides, and a Planet Snoopy kids area that is the playground for new memories.

  Enjoy season-long access and free parking to Worlds of Fun with a Gold Season Pass, including seasonal events Grand Carnivale and Halloween Haunt.

• Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch

  Strawberry Festival at Fun Farm

  On May 15 & 22 you're invited to Fun Farm for their Strawberry Festival! Come out & hand pick your own strawberries from our berry patch. Guests may visit the Big Red Barn Store at no cost. Must have a ticket for outdoor activities & games. No refunds. Open rain or shine. Children under 2 years old do not require an admission ticket.

  The Fun Farm is home to a U-Pick Strawberry Patch (and seasonal apple orchard and pumpkin patch). Over 300 acres of farm fun! Visit the biggest farm - out in the country! Farm Animals and Outdoor Games Corn Maze, Carousel, Cow-Train Country Store, Mums and Decor Live Music, Pig Races Tipsy Cow Shack- Wine & Beer Fresh Honey, Farm Foods & Gift Baskets New Outdoor Attractions! 

• Oceans of Fun: Opening Day 2021

  Oceans of Fun opens for the season on May 29! Splash into SUMMER FUN at Kansas City’s premier outdoor water park!

  With waves of fun from mild to wild, Oceans of Fun offers AMAZING for everyone in the family. Extreme water slides appeal to thrill seekers and kiddos love our pint-sized slides, geysers, and foundations at Crocodile Isle. Float along on our Caribbean Cooler lazy river and catch some waves at fan favorite, Surf City Wave Pool.

  NEW for 2021 is Riptide Raceway, the world’s longest mat racing waterslide. From five stories high, racers will speed down 486 feet in enclosed, winding tubes and around a 360-degree loop before an epic, splashdown finish.

• Koalas are HERE at Kansas City Zoo

  Koalas are back in Kansas City! Two adorable marsupials are calling the Zoo home through November. Two koalas traveled to Kansas City from the San Diego Zoo. Thackory, 10 and Chuckels (sic) 7, both males, will be spending this summer at the Kansas City Zoo. They spent the last 30 days getting accustomed to their summer abode and the new Zookeepers who will be taking great care of them. A Zookeeper from the San Diego Zoo also traveled to Kansas City to ease the transition. Koalas have a strict diet, eating only young eucalyptus leaves. Those leaves must be fresh, and since eucalyptus doesn’t grow in Kansas City, their diets must be flown in twice a week from Florida. Due to this fact koalas can’t spend their winters at the Kansas City Zoo. They are on loan to us through the San Diego Koala Conservation and Education Program. While they can’t be permanent residents of Kansas City, they will call the Zoo home through November.  Plan your trip to visit them today!

• Memorial Day Weekend at the National WWI Museum and Memorial

  Friday-Monday, May 28-31, 2021

  As America’s Congressionally-designated World War I museum and memorial, the National WWI Museum and Memorial honors and recognizes the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving their country in conjunction with Memorial Day.

  Admission to the Museum and Memorial is free for veterans and active duty military personnel, while general admission for the public is half-price all weekend (Friday-Monday, May 28-31).

  The Museum and Memorial offers a wide variety of events during the weekend for people of all ages, including a Hot Air Balloon Glow in the evening on Sunday, May 30 and a free public ceremony at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day with a keynote address from Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Eric Jacobson. Currently a command surgeon and assistant chief of staff, Lt. Col. Dr. Jacobson was formerly a battalion surgeon with multiple overseas deployments and was former director of medical operations at the Javits New York Medical Station, the temporary response to New York City’s COVID-19 Pandemic.

  MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 2021 EVENTS

  FLAGS OF FORGOTTEN SOLDIERS DISPLAY

  When: All Day; Monday May 24-Monday, May 31

  Where: Walkway Terrace near Main Entrance at the National WWI Museum and Memorial

  What: The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that every 72 minutes, a service member takes his or her own life. This moving display of 140 U.S. flags calls attention to the fact that 140 veterans are lost to suicide every week. FREE to the public.

  WORLD WAR I RESEARCH STATIONS

  When: All Day; Friday-Monday, May 28-31

  Where: Outside J.C. Nichols Auditorium Lobby inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial

  What: Find your connection to World War I during Memorial Day weekend through research stations at the Museum. With access to multiple databases including, Fold3.com, Ancestry.com, the Museum and Memorial’s online collections database, the American Battlefield Monuments Commission and the National Archives, discover how the Great War affected your family through records, photographs and much more. FREE to the public.

  VINTAGE MILITARY VEHICLE DISPLAY

  When: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, May 29-30

  Where: National WWI Museum and Memorial, Southeast Lawn

  What: The Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA) will display vintage military vehicles from World War I, World War II, Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. MVPA members will be available to answer questions about their collection. Availability subject to weather. FREE to the public.

  HOT AIR BALLOON GLOW

  When: 6 p.m.; Sunday, May 30 (Balloon Glow begins at 8:30 p.m.)

  Where: National WWI Museum and Memorial, North and Southeast Lawns

  What: Kick off your summer with the first ever Hot Air Balloon Glow on the North and Southeast Lawns. Balloons were primarily used in WWI to collect reconnaissance miles above the front lines. A century later, observe their magnificence up close. Balloons will be tethered to the ground, and propane burners will be periodically lit to keep the balloons inflated. Enjoy picnicking, live music and local food trucks on our 47 acres. FREE to the public.

  MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

  When: 10-11 a.m.; Monday, May 31

  Where: National WWI Museum and Memorial, Memorial Courtyard

  What: A formal public program to include remarks from dignitaries and a keynote address from Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Eric Jacobson. ASL interpretation will be provided for the ceremony. FREE to the public.

  MEMORIAL DAY BELL TOLLING CEREMONY

  When: Noon; Monday, May 31

  Where: National WWI Museum and Memorial, Memorial Courtyard

  What: We commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice with a bell tolling ceremony featuring a presentation of colors, a wreath laying and a moving reading. It was also tolled 11 times at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1926 during the dedication ceremony of the Liberty Memorial and again on Nov. 11, 2018 to commemorate the centennial of the WWI armistice. FREE to the public.

  WALK OF HONOR DEDICATION CEREMONY

  When: 2 p.m.; Monday, May 31

  Where: National WWI Museum and Memorial, Walk of Honor

  What: New Walk of Honor granite bricks will be dedicated during a special ceremony. The Walk of Honor is divided into three sections: bricks dedicated solely to those who served in World War I; bricks dedicated to veterans of any military service; and bricks that honor civilian friends, family or organizations. Walk of Honor bricks are dedicated twice each year during Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies. FREE to the public.

• Tails & Tales: Olathe Public Library Summer Reading Program

  Olathe Public Library's Summer Reading Program launches on May 17! Explore the world of stories this summer with the Olathe Public Library. Fairy tales, folk tales, funny stories, scary stories, adventures, mysteries, and so much more. Open a book and discover a new world!  All ages can track their reading online this summer to win prizes.

• Kansas City Balloon Glow

  Kansas City's Great Balloon Glow: May 30

  Kick off your summer with the first ever Hot Air Balloon Glow on the North and Southeast Lawns. Balloons—also called dirigibles or air ships—were primarily used in WWI to collect reconnaissance miles above the front lines. A century later, the Museum and Memorial invites the public to observe the magnificence of hot air balloons during an evening “balloon glow.” Hot air balloons will be grounded, and propane burners will be periodically lit to keep the balloons inflated.

  Beginning at 6 p.m. the public is encouraged to gather safely on the 47 acres with friends and family to listen to live music, grab a bite to eat from a local food truck and picnic. The Great Air Balloon Glow will begin around 8:30 p.m. and last for 90 minutes. FREE to the public.

• Tails & Tales: Kansas City Kansas Public Library Summer Reading Program

  Tails & Tales: Kansas City Kansas Public Library Summer Reading Program on May 17 Pre-registration for the program begins in Beanstack and paper logs will be available for pick up June 1st-July 31st: Read and log your books! Find Tails and Tales at Kansas City, Kansas Public Library (KCKPL) with our Summer Reading Program! Readers of all ages are invited to participate by reading books, logging your books or minutes read, and completing online activities to earn a prize pack and earn entries into the grand prize drawing!

• Shows at Midwest Trust Center

  Enjoy a performance through Midwest Trust Center. Upcoming shows include: 

  • ‘In the Workshop’ presented by Mesner Puppet Theater: September 1, 2020 - May 3, 2021 | 8, 12-minute episodes, one is to be released each month | VIRTUAL EVENT
  • ‘Be the Change’ with raptivist Joey FineRhyme: October 1, 2020 - May 1, 2021 | Virtual performance and Zoom session
  • ‘Layer the Walls’: January 1, 2021 - June 1, 2021 | VIRTUAL EVENT
  • Midwest Trust Center Series - Recital Series - Spring 2021 Virtual Events: Noon CDT on Mondays and Tuesdays, March 1, 2021 - May 31, 2021 | VIRTUAL EVENTS
  • Flying Quetzal Marionette Workshop with StoneLion Puppet Theatre: March 9, 2021 - June 1, 2021 | Time Determined by Teachers/Groups/Parents
  • Midwest Trust Center Series -  Michael Pagán Big Band in Concert: April 12, 2021 - May 12, 2021 | VIRTUAL EVENT
  • 'El Tiburón' or 'The Shark'by Koki Sabatés: April 17, 2021 - June 1, 2021 | VIRTUAL EVENT

• "Step Right Up!" at Science City

  Science City is now home to a BRAND NEW carnival-themed exhibit, "Step Right Up!"

  "Step Right Up!" is the sixth exhibit produced at Science City through the Burns & McDonnell Battle of the Brains competition. The design was inspired by the 2019 Battle of the Brains grand prize-winning students from Tonganoxie Middle School whose idea was brought to life as an amazing new $1 million exhibit! Plan your visit to Science City now! Hours are Wednesday thru Sunday 9:30am-12:30pm and 2:00pm-5:00pm. With limited capacity, please purchase tickets online in advance in order to ensure admission. Masks are required for ages five plus.

• Spring at the Overland Park Arboretum

  The Overland Park Arboretum is one of the prettiest places to enjoy the beauty of spring in Kansas City. This month, mark your calendar for these events:

  • April 29 - May 2: Spring Plant Sale -  The annual Friends of the Arboretum plant sale is scheduled and is expected to include online ordering with curbside pickup. 

• KC Monarchs Home Opener

  The Kansas City Monarchs play their home opener on May 18!

  Each, among the best of their time. But beyond baseball. Each, a trailblazer. Each, a courageous pioneer. Each, part of a movement. Since the Kansas City Monarchs were founded in 1920, we've come so far these 100 years. And yet, there are more trails to be blazed. But over these 100 years, some things are still as true, and pure, as ever. A curve ball is still hard to hit. A tie goes to the runner... A brand woven deep into the fabric and DNA of this community. A brand able to unite and inspire a new generation of baseball fans. A brand that hasn't had a home field since 1965, but on Opening Day of 2021, will take the field for the first time in those pinstripes as the Kansas City Monarchs. Home, at the Field of Legends, formerly T-Bones Stadium.Where we belong.

  We are creating a year-round sports and entertainment destination, to include:

  • 50 home Monarchs games
  • 14 home Women’s professional soccer games
  • Over 100 concerts, festivals and community events
  • Renovated stadium with new and exciting offerings from seating areas to food and beverage options

• Jumperoo at Urban Air

  Jumperoo Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at Urban Air: This event is perfect for ages 7 & under to have some safe-fun in the park! You can join us every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9 am - 12 pm for some fun! $9.99 per child. Parents get in free. Memberships are not valid with this event. Only valid during the school year. Not valid during school breaks or holidays.

  About Urban Air: If you’re looking for the best year-round indoor amusements in Shawnee, Bonner Springs and Lenexa area, Urban Air Adventure Park is the perfect place! Along with regular weekly events, fitness classes, corporate events and special occasion rentals our facility caters to birthday parties for kids of all ages. If your group is up for a little sweat and a lot of bounce, Urban Air is the place for you. We’re not just a room full of trampolines or another neighborhood park. We’re bringing families and friends together for a hyped up, healthy dose of jumping, climbing, swinging, crawling, building, flying and dunking. Check out our attractions including our Kidzone and Urban Air Warrior Course to learn more about the generous helping of frenetic fun Urban Air brings to you. Open Jump is held daily and perfect for any age, fitness level or athletic ability. Walk-ins are welcome anytime, just show up and we will get you in!

• Pirates Ahoy! at Sea Life

  Visit Sea Life: This aquarium experience will get you up close and face-to-face with amazing underwater creatures such as sharks, octopus, green sea turtle named Gertrude, stingrays, sea stars, seahorses, jellyfish and thousands of colorful fish! A favorite attraction is the Interactive Rockpool Experience, where you are able to touch animals like sea stars and sea urchins with the help of a Sea Life Educator!  Tip: Purchase tickets online and save $5 with promo code: Parent20.

  Also in May,  SEA LIFE’s Pirate Party transforms guests into a pirate with themed names, an area to create a pirate crab, tie a knot strong enough to hold a ship in place, and explore the seas where pirates roamed. Both events are included with admission.   Read our review of Pirates Ahoy! here.

• Pirates Ahoy! at Legoland

  Visit Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City: This family-friendly attraction offers a fun, highly interactive and educational 2-to 3-hour indoor experience. Based on the ever-popular Lego® brick, Legoland Discovery Center provides a range of interactive play areas. Tip: Purchase tickets online and save $5 with promo code: Parent20.

  Also, in May  LEGOLAND Discovery Center’s ‘Pirates Ahoy!’ invites families to join the pirate crew and take the ultimate pirate challenge through scavenger hunts, creating your own LEGO® pirate ship, pirate dance parties,  making their own action-packed LEGO® pirate movie, and more!   Read our review of Pirates Ahoy! here.

• Visit Springfield for 2 Nights, the 3rd is On Us!

  Take a trip to Springfield, Missouri by June 27, 2021 and get a night on us! Visit at least 3 of our participating attractions, 3 participating food & drink establishments and stay at least 2 nights in a participating hotel, and get one night completely free! See the list of participating hotels and business and learn more about the program with this coupon. See you in Springfield!

  As the pulse of the Ozarks, Springfield, Missouri is rooted in the celebration of family, friends and life's genuine moments. A regional hub with large city amenities and small town hospitality, our commitment is towards creating moments that make life big and full. With intriguing attractions, a diverse culinary scene, unique shopping and an ode to classic Americana heritage, Springfield is a destination you will enjoy while feeling right at home.

• How to Snag a Sea Monster

  How to Snag a Sea Monster: A Terrifically Tall Tale Adapted by Mike Horner and Larry Mitchell Composed by Matt Kirby and Susan Conger. Based on the tall tales of Stormy Stormalong. Showing April 30 – May 30, 2021.

  If you're eager to enjoy a LIVE show again and your children delight in storytelling, Coterie Theatre and Mesner Puppet Theater's collaboration "How to Snag a Sea Monster" is the show for you!

  We were impressed with the charming sets and puppets, the masterful puppetry of Mike Horner, one of Mesner's resident puppeteers. Part of the magic is the way the puppeteer blends into the background as the story draws the audience in and they focus exclusively on the puppets themselves. Horner does this with ease bringing the story to life in a vivid and charming way. Read our full review.

• Spring at Mahaffie

  Enjoy hands-on history at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. This month they are offering the following special events: 

  Mahaffie Activities for Today's Students (M.A.T.S.): Each Monday, a FREE Nearpod lesson will be posted on Mahaffie.org. The following Wednesday, a field trip experience will be available on the historic site from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to correspond with the lesson. Parents/Home Educators are invited to bring their students to the farm to see history up close. This is a great experience for homeschoolers, virtual students, and hybrid students. Do the lessons ahead of your trip to the farm, or after - or not at all - whatever works best for you and your students! Admission is $5 per student ages 4 & up. One adult is admitted free with each student. Adults may take a stagecoach ride for $2 (stagecoach ride is included in the student admission). Mahaffie Members are admitted free! Picnic tables are available at the entrance to the historic site, as well as under the shelter on the northwest corner of the site. The dates listed below are for the live activities on the farm; Nearpod lessons will be released two days prior. Registration is not required - however, it helps us plan for staffing needs, so please register on Mahaffie.org if you know you're coming.

  MATS: Cinco de Mayo: May 5, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

  MATS: Spring Planting: May 12, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

  MATS: Mahaffie Activities for Today's Students: May 19, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

  Backyard Chickens: May 20, 2021 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

  MATS: Civil War and Memorial Day: May 26, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• Under the Sea Exhibit at Crown Center

  Opening May 29, visit the FREE Under the Sea Exhibit at Crown Center. Plunge into a fun, creative environment in this free exhibit that will delight kids who love to explore the deep blue sea. Discover buried treasure in a sunken pirate ship, ride a dolphin and seahorses, paddle your way to the mermaid's house, explore in the submarine, and many more aquatic adventures. It's fathoms of fun, and it's totally free! Crown Center Shops, Showplace, Level 1. Open Monday – Saturday, 10am to 6pm; Sunday, Noon to 5pm. FREE. 816-274-8444.

• Ceramic Café

  Toddler Thursdays: On Thursdays from 10-2, Toddlers (5 and under) get to paint one of our selected items for just $10.

  About Ceramica Cafe: Pottery painting and glass fusing. Walk-ins welcome. Great for birthdays and group events too. Products include bisque, stoneware, clay and glass fusion.