Best of September

Pumpkin Patches, Apple Picking, Fall Festivals... these are just a few of the things we LOVE about September in KC!.

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.

• "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.

• African Safari at Wonders of Wildlife

  African Safari at Wonders of Wildlife: Sept. 13-26

  Grab the pith helmets and khaki, it’s time for an African Safari! Join the adventure and enjoy safari-themed events and activities.African Safari Adventure Activities:

  • During African Safari, interact with members from WOW's Education team at various activities throughout the Wildlife Galleries. These activities will be from 11 am -Noon each day during African Safari, with an additional time slot of 2-3 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
  • Exhibit Encounters in Great African Hall: September 19, 26
  • Curiosity Crates Africa in Great African Hall: September 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25
  • Storytime Africa Story in Shipwreck Theater: September 14, 17, 21, 23
  • I SpyGreat African Hall: September 15, 22

  Social Media Giveaway: Take a picture with your favorite animal in Great African Hall and post it on Social Media during African Safari! Tag Wonders of Wildlife to be entered to win a prize! @WondersofWildlife #WOWAquarium

• Apple and Pumpkin Season at Weston Orchard

  APPLE AND PUMPKIN SEASON: Aug. 1- Oct. 31. Open 7 days a week 9:00-5:00

  • U-pick Apple Orchard
  • U-pick Pumpkin Patch
  • Hayrack Rides
  • Apple Cannons
  • Apple & Cider Pies Gourmet Food
  • Mums, Jams, Butters and more!

• Auschwitz Exhibition at Union Station

  Auschwitz Exhibition is a groundbreaking exhibition bringing together more than 700 original objects and 400 photographs from over 20 institutions and museums from around the world. 

  Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. is the most comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the history of Auschwitz and its role in the Holocaust ever presented in North America, and an unparalleled opportunity to confront the singular face of human evil—one that arose not long ago and not far away.

  The exhibition explores the dual identity of the camp as a physical location—the largest documented mass murder site in human history—and as a symbol of the borderless manifestation of hatred and human barbarity.

  Featuring more than 700 original objects and 400 photographs, the exhibition allows visitors to experience artifacts from the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum, including hundreds of personal items—such as suitcases, eyeglasses, and shoes—that belonged to survivors and victims of Auschwitz. Other artifacts include concrete posts that were part of the fence of the Auschwitz camp; fragments of an original barrack for prisoners from the Auschwitz III-Monowitz camp; a desk and other possessions of the first and the longest serving Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss; a gas mask used by the SS; Picasso’s Lithograph of Prisoner; and an original German-made Model 2 freight train car used for the deportation of Jews to the ghettos and extermination camps in occupied Poland.

• The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

  Bridging the Gender Divide Exhibit at T/m

  Bridging the Gender Divide explores how STEM toys, once marketed primarily to boys, have evolved to encourage all children through play to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The exhibit also features engaging interactive elements, including an HO-scale working model train, arcade consoles, and a matching-game coloring book that highlights accomplishments by women in STEM over the past 200 years.

• Carolyn's Pumpkin Patch

  Sept. 18 - Oct. 31:

  Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch is Kansas City’s Original pumpkin patch, started in 1991 by Carolyn and Buddy Raasch. Recently named “Missouri’s #1 Pumpkin Patch,” by Reader’s Digest, there are dozens of family-fun attractions and activities, making it a “must-visit” fall destination for local families.

  The farm includes approximately 60 acres planted in pumpkins, corn, and soybeans, plus another 20 acres set aside for pumpkin entertainment and farm fun. We are open from Sept. 18 -  Oct. 31--7 days a week, rain or shine!

  Live entertainment on weekends is part of the fun at Carolyn's! Families enjoy the excitement of Uncle Lester’s Pig Races, live performances by local musicians, and photos with the Pumpkin Princess.

  The highlight of a visit is the classic hayrack ride to 50+ acres of “you pick” pumpkins.

  Favorite attractions include:

  • Little Bud’s Railroad, which is a replica of an 1863 C.P. Huntington Train
  • Country Carousel with 36 horses and 2 chariots was originally Le Carousel at Worlds of Fun and is now billed as their “Country Carousel”
  • Barrel Swing
  • A “pumpkin launcher” better known as the Pumpkinator where families can get a kick out of watching pumpkins thrust into the air hundreds of feet
  • The much-loved Jumping Pumpkin and, new this year, an additional Jumping Pillow for kids to enjoy.
  • Poppa’s Pedal Car Track for older kids
  • Trike Track with new improved heavy-duty tricycles

  There are many delicious foods to enjoy at the concession stands including hot dogs, brats, and delicious baked goods including delicious Homemade Pop-Tarts. Last but definitely not least, do not leave without trying the world-famous pumpkin donuts. More than likely, you’ll be taking some home!

• Cedar Cove: Public Tours

  Public Tours of Cedar Cove on Saturdays & Sundays: Come meet feline friends! Experience Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! Cedar Cove is a non-profit conservation and education center committed to the care and preservation of wildlife species and their habitats while educating the public on the importance of maintaining healthy ecosystems and the impending dangers of ecological collapse.

• Louisburg Cider Mill

  Ciderfest

  Louisburg Cider Mill's 43rd Annual Ciderfest kicks off Saturday, September 25! Hours are 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. The Ciderfest continues on Sunday, September 26th and also the following weekend, Saturday, October 2nd and October 3rd. Ciderfest activities begin with the Louisburg Lions Pancake Breakfast from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. Other activities include: Live music beginning at 11 a.m., cider and donut making, pony rides and inflatable slides ongoing throughout the day until 6 p.m. Ciderfest also features craft booths, gifts & collectible vendors, and multiple food and BBQ vendors. There is no admission or parking fee to attend Ciderfest.

• Electric Poe

  THE COTERIE presents a Union Cemetery Historical Society outdoor special engagement: ELECTRIC POE 2021 Sept. 16 - Oct. 31.

  Performed outdoors in Kansas City’s hidden gem, a return engagement featuring two new Poe stories this year! The Pit and the Pendulum - a man is sentenced by The Inquisition to various unspeakable tortures in a diabolical chamber of horrors. In The Tomb of Ligeia, we have Poe's twist on reanimating the dead. Treat yourself and your family to superb acting accompanied by atmospheric electric guitar underscoring in front of the “Holding Vault,” circa 1857.  (Guided Cemetery Tour packages before the show are available the first two weekends of the run.)

• Events at Kansas City Zoo

  Sept. 18:  Zoo Run for the Koalas!

  Join us for the 18th annual Kansas City Zoo Run! Each year, the run features a different threatened animal to help raise awareness and contribute to the Zoo's conservation efforts. This year, we are celebrating adorable koalas! There are 4-mile and 1-mile races with both in-person and virtual options. It's the only race that goes through the Zoo, passing animals along the way!

  All participants receive:

  • Custom-designed GO-EX koala t-shirt
  • Custom koala finisher's medal
  • Free Zoo entry valid any one day through 2021

  Sept. 25-26: Back to School Book-Fari

  Let your imagination run WILD with a good book this school year! The Kansas City Zoo has partnered with the Kansas City Public Library and its bookmobile to promote learning, growing, and exploration. When you visit the Zoo, keep an eye out for books in the wild! Special displays will be placed throughout the Zoo with book excerpts. Find out how they relate to the Zoo and our animals! Our animals will be enjoying back-to-school themed enrichment and guests will be able to visit the library information booth in the lobby. On Saturday only, Zoo guests can visit the bookmobile from 10am-1pm for a unique library experience!

• Fall Container Workshops at Family Tree Nursery

  FALL CONTAINER WORKSHOPS​ BY APPOINTMENT ONLY STARTING AT $39.99

  • Fri, Sept. 10th
  • Sat, Sept. 11th
  • Sun, Sept. 12th 10am, 1pm, or 3pm

  ALL 3 LOCATIONS

  RSVP NOW

  Reserve your spot for our Annual Fall Container Workshops on Friday, September 10th, Saturday, September 11th, or Sunday, September 12th. Limited spots are available at each of our locations by appointment only. At our workshops, you will have the option to create a stunning 12-inch fall combo and/or a 14-inch fall combo by adding in a great selection of colorful annuals. We will have plenty of friendly staff members available to help you along the way. We look forward to you joining us for this fun event! Here is what will be included in your combo options:

  12-INCH CONTAINER OPTION | $39.99

  14-INCH CONTAINER OPTION | $54.99

• Fun Farm

  What started from an effort to sell pumpkins, quickly turned into over 300 acres of full-fledged, fun-loving experiences packed with family activities for all ages to enjoy together. Visit Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch this season!

• Fun-filled Fruity Adventure at Colonial Gardens

  September Kids Club at Colonial Gardens on Sept. 11: Come out to Colonial Gardens for a fun-filled fruity adventure! Your kids will get to taste their way through our apple orchard. This month your kids will get to:

  • Pick 1/2 peck of apples
  • Taste their way through some of our apple varieties
  • Learn about how apples are grownPlaytime at the playground

  We have two sessions available:

  • September 11th 10:00am – 11:00am
  • September 11th 11:30am – 12:30pm

  Parents are more than welcome to come to learn with their kids! Otherwise, you can shop through the store or have lunch at Colonial Kitchen! Please note: you only need to purchase tickets for the children attending. Parents are welcome to stay for Kids Club, or the kids can be dropped off for their session! We ask that any children who will be dropped off are at least 5 years old. Our staff is eager to share this unique experience and knowledge with you. For any questions or concerns, please contact Jillian, at jiliian.h@colonialgardenskc.com

• Gnomes, Clay and Painting!

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

  Sculpt Gnomes: Ceramic Cafe is already planning our Gnome Hunt 2022!. They will need thousands of gnomes next Spring. Girls Scouts, community service groups, church groups, sports teams, corporate groups, book clubs, neighborhood groups, YOUR GROUPS are invited to come make gnomes. Groups of 8 or more are invited to make gnomes (for FREE). Ceramic Cafe will keep the gnomes and use them in next year's Gnome Hunt! 

  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.

• Grand Opening: Central Park at Zona Rosa

  Grand Opening: Central Park at Zona Rosa: Sept. 18

  Join us for a celebration event marking the Grand Opening of our newly renovated Central Park at Zona Rosa!

  • Saturday, September 18, 11 am – 8pmCentral Park: located in front of Bravo, between N. Dixson & N. Stoddard

  The green space includes new fountains, a children’s play area, shaded swings, covered seating, and new main stage.

  Festivities will go on all day and the public is invited to celebrate with us!

  • 11am – 2pm+ Food Trucks: Rolling in the Dough (edible cookie dough!), The Melt Truck (grilled cheesy sandwiches), Taco Republic & Kona Ice+ Face Painters, Balloon Artists+ Performance by the KC Symphony’s Mobile Music Box (11am)+ DJ Rusty Turner
  • 2:30pm – 3pm, Pure Barre workout pop-up
  • 4pm – 8pm+ Hereford House Tent serving Burgers & Brews+ Kona Ice+ Live performances by local bands Lyin’ Eyes (Eagles Tribute) and The Suburbans (dance party band!)
  • All day+ Register to win HUGE Giveaways from Zona Rosa Merchants+ FREE Zona Rosa coupon books with special discounts to shops & restaurants (while supplies last)+ Selfie Station, designed by Fresh Factory KC (Zona’s selfie studio)

  This is a FREE community event; food truck items are available for purchase. Please bring mac n’ cheese cup donations for our partners at Feed Northland Kids to support their “Food for Thought” school pantry program. First 100 get a FREE TREAT!

• Great Pumpkin Fest at Worlds of Fun

  The Great Pumpkin Fest: Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 18 – October 31, 2021

  Hooray for fall! Hop on your tractor, pirate ship or witch’s broom and hurry on over for a super-sized celebration of all things fall at Worlds of Fun’s Great Pumpkin Fest. We’ve got a full harvest of AMAZING, fall-tastic fun for everyone with games, activities and just a speck of spooky for pint-sized ghosts and goblins.

  Great Pumpkin Fest offers one-of-a-kind Halloween activities for kids throughout the park! At Planet Snoopy, you’ll find play zones, costume contests and dance parties with Snoopy and the whole PEANUTS™ gang. During the kids’ Halloween event, loads of family-friendly games and activities await at every turn. Around every hay bale you can catch toe-tapping, live entertainment and grab a comfy seat to just kick back and take it all in. And the food! All over the park you’ll find delicious fall flavors in sweet treats and savory goodies.

• Grinter Farms

  These fields are in the far eastern part of the state (near the population centers) and the Grinter family let the public come into the fields and take photos. A great many people want to have their photos taken with the sunflowers.

• Union Station Kansas City

  Harry Potter Day at Science City

  Harry Potter Day at Science City: Sept 18

  Wands at the ready! Join us for Harry Potter Day at Science City! Celebrate Harry Potter with a day filled with (science) magic, flying broomsticks and enchanting treats. Dress in your finest robes and be ready to be immersed in a magical scientific world. Regular Science City admission applies.

• Johnson County Museum staff, 2020

  Johnson County Museum

  Featuring award-winning long-term and changing exhibitions as well as public and school education programs, the Museum is a great place to spend the day learning about our county’s history and having fun in our hands-on exhibit spaces.

• Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins

  Johnson Farms is a real farm in the country, but very close to your home. You pay one admission and only pay extra for anything you harvest, snack on, or seasonal items in the retail store.