As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for fun ways to keep my little ones entertained, especially when the unpredictable Kansas City weather keeps us guessing. Whether the rain is pouring or the sun is shining, there’s always something exciting to do with babies and toddlers in our city.
1. Art Appreciation
☔ Rainy Day: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Taking little ones to the Nelson-Atkins is a great way to spend a rainy day. While toddlers might not fully grasp the artistic significance of the pieces, they are mesmerized by the bold colors and towering sculptures. The open spaces make it easy to explore, and the gentle sound of the Rozzelle Court Fountain provides a soothing backdrop. Plus, the museum is free, which is always a win!
☀️ Sunny Day: Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park
When the sun is shining, head outside to the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park on the museum grounds. Toddlers will love running around the giant shuttlecock sculptures, and parents will appreciate the fresh air and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great way to introduce kids to art while letting them move around freely.
2. Animal Encounters
☔ Rainy Day: Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium
There’s nothing quite like watching my children press their tiny hands against the glass, completely in awe of the jellyfish and sea turtles. The underwater tunnel, where sharks and stingrays glide right over our heads, is always a highlight. The dim lighting and calming environment make Sea Life Kansas City a great sensory experience for little ones.
☀️ Sunny Day: Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
On sunny days, we swap Sea Life for the Kansas City Zoo. The Discovery Barn, where little ones can get up close to goats, pigs and even baby chicks, is a toddler favorite. My kids also love watching the penguins waddle and dive into the water. The giraffe feeding station, where toddlers can hand-feed lettuce to these gentle giants, is another highlight. And when little legs need a rest, we take a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel or hop aboard the KC Zoo Railroad for a fun tour of the park.
KC Parent Pro Tip: A Kansas City Zoo membership is a game-changer for parents of babies and toddlers. Instead of feeling like you have to see the entire zoo in one trip, you can keep outings short and sweet before heading home for nap time. Plus, unlimited visits mean you can enjoy the zoo at your little one's pace, making each trip an stress-free adventure.
3. Story Time and Learning
☔ Rainy Day: Kansas City Public Library Story Time
When it’s too wet to play outside, we snuggle up at the library for a cozy story time. Our favorite is the toddler story time at our local branch, which features lively songs with movement, bubble time and parachute play that keeps my daughter engaged. This became a special weekly tradition for us while my older daughter was at preschool; it gives us quality one-on-one time as well as a fun outing to look forward to.
☀️ Sunny Day: Lakeside Story Time at Shawnee Mission Park
On warm days, take some books outdoors and enjoy a DIY story time by the lake at Shawnee Mission Park. Lay out a blanket, read your favorite board books and watch the ducks paddle by. The fresh air seems to make kids extra curious and engaged.
4. Sensory Play
☔ Rainy Day: Wonderscope Children’s Museum
If there’s one place my kids could spend hours, it’s Wonderscope. From water tables to soft play areas, there are endless opportunities for hands-on fun. Every exhibit is designed for active exploration, making it the perfect place to burn off energy indoors.
KC Parent Pro Tip: Wonderscope can be an exciting (and overwhelming) place for toddlers, so start your visit in the areas designed just for them, like the Tot Spot or the water play station. Bring a change of clothes in case they get wet and try to visit on weekday mornings when it’s less crowded. If your little one gets overstimulated, take a snack break in the cafe before diving back in.
☀️ Sunny Day: Loose Park Splash Pad and Rose Garden
When the weather is warm, opt for a sensory adventure at Loose Park. Kids love splashing in the sprayground, running through the grass and smelling the vibrant flowers in the rose garden. It’s a beautiful spot for a picnic, too!
5. Music and Movement
☔ Rainy Day: Baby Music Class
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to sign up for a music class. At the Music Academy of Kansas City, toddlers get to shake maracas, tap drums and dance with scarves while parents soak in the joy of their giggles during the Smart Start classes. It’s a great way to nurture early development through music and movement!
☀️ Sunny Day: Theis Park’s Free Outdoor Concerts
On a nice evening, pack a picnic and head to Theis Park for an outdoor concert. The live music is a hit, and there’s plenty of space for little ones to twirl, clap and move to the beat.
6. Active Play
☔ Rainy Day: Rainbow of the Heartland
When the playground is too wet, head to the Rainbow of the Heartland’s play systems showroom, where kids can climb, slide and swing indoors for a small fee. It’s like a mini indoor park with a safe, structured environment.
☀️ Sunny Day: Gum Springs Park
Gum Springs Park is our go-to for outdoor adventures. Renovated in 2024, the park features a unique hot air balloon play structure, baby swings and a 0.6-mile walking trail. We pack my toddler’s balance bike, and she rides while I push the baby in the stroller over the newly paved paths. The hot air balloon play structure is always a hit, and it gives my toddler the chance to climb and explore while I keep an eye on her.
7. Experience History
☔ Rainy Day: Snoopy and the Red Baron at Crown Center
Step into the world of Snoopy and the Red Baron at Crown Center’s latest exhibit, open through May 4. This engaging experience brings the WWI Flying Ace’s adventures to life with interactive activities like comic strip drawing, paper airplane making and exploring memorabilia from Snoopy’s legendary flights. Don’t miss the fun photo ops that make you feel like part of the adventure!
KC Parent Pro Tip: Parking at Crown Center is easy and convenient! Don’t forget to grab a voucher for two hours of free parking when you visit the Snoopy and the Red Baron exhibit. Just ask at the exhibit entrance and enjoy your visit without worrying about the meter!
☀️ Sunny Day: Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
On a beautiful day, Deanna Rose is the perfect spot for little ones to step back in time. They can explore a one-room schoolhouse, a Native American teepee and an old-fashioned sweet shop, all while learning about farm life. The goats, cows, chickens and other farm animals add to the charm! With plenty of shade along the pathways, it’s a comfortable and educational outdoor adventure.
8. STEM Exploration
☔ Rainy Day: Science City at Union Station
Science City is a fantastic rainy-day destination and a wonderful way to introduce toddlers to science through play and exploration. While the older kids dive into experiments, my little ones love the Tot Lot, a special area designed just for them. It’s full of safe, interactive exhibits that encourage early STEM learning. My kids especially love the water play station, where they can splash and experiment with floating objects, and the soft play area, where they can crawl, climb and explore in a safe environment. The Train Lab, which features moving models and hands-on activities perfect for little hands, is another big hit.
☀️ Sunny Day: Model Trains & Historic Train Car at Overland Park Arboretum
For an outdoor STEM experience, head to the Overland Park Arboretum to check out the model train display. My toddlers are fascinated by the moving miniature trains, and we always make time to climb aboard the old train car. It’s a fun and educational way to explore transportation history while enjoying the great outdoors.
KC Parent Pro Tip: Children under 5 get into the arboretum for free! Plus, the arboretum offers free admission on select days throughout the year (usually in early spring and late fall). It’s a great way to explore the beautiful gardens and let the kids enjoy the outdoors without spending a dime.
No matter the weather, Kansas City offers endless opportunities for fun and exploration with babies and toddlers. Whether we’re splashing in a fountain, petting a baby goat or marveling at colorful fish, I love watching my little ones discover the world around them.
Rain or shine, adventure is always just around the corner!