Looking for fun things to do with kids in Kansas City this summer? From dragons and dinosaurs to mermaids, storybook characters and imaginative play spaces, the Kansas City area offers countless opportunities for families to experience magical adventures together.
Whether your children love fantasy, animals, theater or hands-on activities, these family-friendly attractions and events around Kansas City are sure to inspire wonder all summer long.
Dragons, Dinosaurs and Fantastical Creatures Around Kansas City
Roars and Rainbows at KC Pumpkin Patch
This summer, KC Pumpkin Patch transforms into a magical world filled with life-sized dinosaurs and sparkling unicorns. Held on Saturdays and Sundays from June 13-28, the event features more than 20 dinosaurs and 20-plus unicorns designed to ignite children’s imaginations.
Families can also enjoy more than 60 farm adventures, live animal encounters, festival food and beverages from KC Wine Co., making this a full day of family fun.
The Little Mermaid at The Culture House
Fans of Disney’s beloved underwater tale won’t want to miss this production of The Little Mermaid. Featuring elaborate costuming—including Ursula’s dramatic tentacled dress—the show will be performed at Yardley Hall at Johnson County Community College on Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13, with performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Dragons and Fantastical Beasts at Powell Gardens
This summer 2026 exhibit combines imagination, history and education to create an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Families can explore mythical creatures while learning about the stories and legends that inspired them.
SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium
Dive into an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium. Families can walk through a 180-degree ocean tunnel, come face-to-fin with sharks and sea turtles, touch a sticky anemone and discover marine life from around the world.
Located near Crown Center, this aquarium offers one of Kansas City’s most immersive animal experiences.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
A Kansas City favorite since 1909, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium spans 202 acres and is home to more than 1,700 animals.
Visitors can see polar bears, penguins, elephants, giraffes and many other species while also enjoying attractions such as the African Sky Safari, Flying Flamingo zip line, Endangered Species Carousel and KC Zoo Railroad.
Meet Beloved Storybook Characters
The Rabbit hOle
The Rabbit hOle brings a century of American children’s literature to life through immersive exhibits and multi-sensory experiences.
This one-of-a-kind museum allows families to step inside the worlds of beloved books while celebrating the stories that have inspired generations of readers.
Frozen at The White Theatre at The J
For the first time in forever, audiences can experience Disney’s award-winning Frozen in a live stage production featuring favorite songs from the film along with original music created for the stage adaptation.
The show runs July 8-26. Tickets are available through the Jewish Community Center.
The Pigeon Comes to Kansas City: A Mo Willems Exhibit
This free interactive exhibit at Crown Center Showplace brings favorite Mo Willems characters to life, including The Pigeon, Elephant and Piggie, Knuffle Bunny and more.
Running May 23 through Sept. 7, the exhibit celebrates imagination, humor and creativity through hands-on experiences for children and families.
Pete the Cat at The Coterie Theatre
The grooviest cat in children’s literature returns to Kansas City this summer.
Based on the popular books by Kimberly and James Dean, this live musical follows Pete the Cat as he discovers that life is an adventure no matter where you end up. The production runs June 10 through Aug. 2.
More Whimsical Family Attractions Near Kansas City
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City
Families can embark on a variety of LEGO-themed adventures, including the Kingdom Quest ride, Merlin’s Apprentice flying attraction, a 4D Cinema experience and a ninja laser maze.
Visitors can also explore LEGO MINILAND, build their own creations and meet favorite LEGO characters. Check the website for SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Center combo ticket options.
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Step into a world of imagination and nostalgia at The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.
Guests can explore detailed miniatures, peek inside dollhouses and discover an extensive collection of toys that delights both children and adults.
Puppetry Arts Museum
Dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of puppetry, the Puppetry Arts Museum showcases puppets and historical artifacts connected to Hazelle Hedges Rollins, founder of the world’s largest toy puppet factory in Kansas City, Missouri.
Admission is free.
C.W. Parker Carousel Museum
Located in Leavenworth, this charming museum celebrates the history of carousels with restored carousel horses, a cylinder piano and the opportunity to ride a working carousel built in 1913.
Moon Marble Company
This Bonner Springs destination is part toy store, part nostalgia trip and part live demonstration experience.
Visitors can shop for marbles in every imaginable color and size, browse vintage toys and watch mesmerizing marble-making demonstrations that fascinate guests of all ages.
Kaleidoscope
One of Kansas City’s most beloved children’s attractions, Kaleidoscope encourages creativity through hands-on art projects made from Hallmark’s leftover design materials.
Kids can let their imaginations run wild while creating unique works of art to take home.
inspireU Children’s Discovery Center
Located in downtown St. Joseph, inspireU Children’s Discovery Center is designed for children from birth to age 10.
The 35,000-square-foot facility includes more than 20 interactive exhibits, a two-story climber, water table, tiny town and rooftop play space.
Cardboard Corner Cafe
Families who love board games, fantasy adventures and friendly competition will enjoy Cardboard Corner Cafe.
The venue hosts family-friendly board game nights, role-playing games, learn-to-play events and tournaments featuring themes such as Star Wars, Dungeons & Dragons, Marvel and more.
Plan Your Next Family Adventure in Kansas City
From dinosaurs and dragons to mermaids, storybook characters and hands-on museums, Kansas City offers countless family-friendly activities that spark creativity and imagination.
Whether you’re planning a summer weekend outing, looking for educational experiences or searching for magical things to do with kids in Kansas City, these attractions provide unforgettable adventures for the whole family.
Explore other family-friendly activities: