Night and Day, Heart of America Is the One

Whether you are exploring Kansas City or another city nearby, having a “stay-cation” or going on a family adventure, here are some great ideas for both daytime and nighttime fun in the Kansas City area and beyond!

NIGHT

Kansas City, MO:

Swope Park: Did you know you can spend the night at the Kansas City Zoo? For a truly special experience for its patrons, the zoo offers differently themed overnights throughout the year. Choose from Polar Bear PJ Party, Slumber Down Under or Nocturnal Safari, to name a few. The zoo also offers twilight tours; check their website for upcoming dates. After a day at the zoo or exploring Kansas City during the summer, head over to Starlight Theatre inside the park for a Broadway show or music concert!

Crown Center: For a night excursion, or even a night away, have dinner at a new restaurant, catch a show at the MTH Theater or the Coterie and stay at the Westin Crown Center.

Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun: Both parks are open late during the summer season and have special evening attractions in the fall and winter, the Great Pumpkin Fest, Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. Looking for more entertainment in North Kansas City? Jaegers Paintball and Laser Tag is loads of fun—inside a cave! For date night, Screenland Armour movie theater is the best in town, or you can get a late night cup of joe or craft brew at Colony KC, or catch a band or trivia night at the Rino.

Parkville, MO:

For late night fun, nothing is better than miniature golf! Parkville Mini Golf is unique, as the course teeters on a hill with sweeping views of the charming town and university. Several unique restaurants are open late for dinner in the old downtown.

Louisburg, KS:

Powell Observatory is a spectacular way to view the night sky. Away from the lights of the city, view the expanse of space up close through the viewing telescopes or attend an educational presentation.

Springfield, MO:

For a serene late night stroll or a picnic under the stars, Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park is open late. Or, take a night ride through Fantastic Caverns!

DAY

Kansas City, MO:

Swope Park: Historic Swope Park has so much to offer the entire family! The Kansas City Zoo, of course, is always a favorite, but have you been to the Lakeside Nature Center? The nature trails have many hidden delights, and the scenery invites tranquility and reflection. Children will love climbing the huge rock formations along one section of the trails while watching trains pass in the ravine below. You’ll also find a picnic pavilion for your convenience, and the nature center is both educational and fun.

World War I Museum: Ride to the top of the memorial tower for breathtaking vistas of the city, then tour the award-winning museum. Across the street, you can enjoy the many attractions Union Station has to offer. And if that isn’t enough, take the skywalk over to Crown Center for more fun! Shop until you drop, take the kids to Kaleidoscope for a free creative art session or explore Legoland Discovery Center or Sea Life. You also can hop on the streetcar outside Union Station and catch a free ride to the City Market.

Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun: If you’re a thrill-seeker, then Worlds of Fun is the place for you! Attracting crowds since 1973, this amusement park has more than 100 rides. Every member of the family is sure to find something appealing, and when you’ve had your fill of roller coasters, head next door for a day of swimming and enjoy more than 17 water attractions!

Parkville, MO:

Parkville is a fun day trip north of Kansas City. Stroll along the Missouri River at English Landing Park or hike the trails at the Parkville Nature Sanctuary. In the mood for antique shopping? Parkville’s historic downtown has you covered—just watch out for the train that runs straight through this quaint little town.

Louisburg, KS:

The Louisburg Cider Mill is a popular farm open year-round. The best time to visit is during autumn to enjoy their pumpkin patch and especially their apple cider and donuts during Cider Fest! If you like big cats, take an excursion to the Cedar Cove Feline Conservation and Education Center. On the way home, explore the extensive, beautiful grounds of the Overland Park Arboretum.

Springfield, MO:

For a mini-vacation, take a trip down to Springfield. The Dickerson Park Zoo and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium are both fun attractions worth visiting.

Get out and explore the world around you—day or night!

Margaret Bristow is a lifelong Kansas City resident with a passion for adventure.