Beat cabin fever this winter with exciting indoor adventures the whole family will love. Whether you love art, animals or educational play, Kansas City offers a wide variety of family-friendly attractions that promise unforgettable memories.
If You Love Educational Play
Science City at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, Mo.)
With over 300 STEM exhibits for kids of all ages to explore, Science City is a Kansas City gem. In 2020 they expanded and added more early learning spaces for kids under 6. As a kid, my favorite thing at Science City was the SkyBike. Don’t forget about the planetarium and movie theater! ScienceCity.UnionStation.org
KidScape at the Johnson County Museum (8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park)
KidScape is a wonderful place for children to get hands-on experience with professions they might enjoy. They can deliver mail, cook in the diner, go fishing, be a teacher, or work as a farmer in the imaginative play spaces. Older children can even check out the 1950s All-Electric House. JCPRD.com
Wonderscope (433 E. Red Bridge Rd., Kansas City, Mo.)
If you have never been to Wonderscope, GO! This interactive museum has activities for kids of all ages. The Tot Spot is great for kids 4 and under, and the On The Move and Creation Station areas can keep the older kids entertained for hours. Cold-temperature-loving kids can even play outside in the NatureScape. Pack a lunch or enjoy a nearby restaurant and make a day of your visit. Wonderscope.org
If You Love Art
Art Classes at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St., Kansas City, Mo.)
If your budding artist likes wearable beading, photography or painting, they’ll love taking art classes at Nelson-Atkins. Classes are on Saturday mornings and are available for kids ages 3–15. For registration, fees and session lengths, visit Nelson-Atkins.org.
The Rabbit hOle (919 E. 14th Ave., North Kansas City, Mo.)
This newly opened literary museum brings classic stories such as Goodnight Moon, Madeline, The Runaway Bunny, and Strega Nona to life. Visit each interactive exhibit and enjoy reading the stories as you do. At the café, you can order a Bowl Full of Mush, The Runaway Bunny salad and other book-themed yummies. Note: Strollers are not allowed. For more details, visit RabbitHoleKC.org.
Ceramic Cafe (9510 Nall Ave., Overland Park)
Ceramic Cafe is a great place to let your artistic side out. You pick your pottery, your colors, then start creating. You can pick up your finished pottery 10 days later. Ages 10 and older can also try glass fusing. For more about themed events, specials and classes, visit CeramicCafeKC.com.
If You Love Being Active
Urban Air (8554 Maurer Rd., Lenexa & 14401 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park)
The apex of fun that will take you to new heights! There are four levels of access to choose from, ranging from just the trampolines all the way up to the virtual reality zone. To enjoy all this fun, you must purchase Urban Air socks in addition to your ticket. They also offer specials and weekly activities. UrbanAir.com
Motus Ninjas (7200 W. 106th St., Overland Park & 725 NW Commerce Dr., Suite M, Lee’s Summit)
Get your energy out while learning new skills and discipline on a ninja obstacle course. Motus Ninjas offers classes (ages 4+) and an open gym (ages 5+; preregistration required) at their two convenient locations. Don’t forget your closed-toe tennis shoes! MotusNinjas.com
AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk (16201 Shawnee Dr., Overland Park)
With over 40,000 square feet of fun, this brand-new family entertainment venue has something for everyone . Want to ride a roller coaster, play in an arcade, go bowling, ice skate or play laser tag? Sports Park is for you. They also have a gaming area for ages 9+ coming soon. BluhawkSports.com
If You Love Animals
Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium (6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, Mo.)
Many people like to visit the zoo in the warmer months, but did you know the animals like the cold weather better? Nuniq, the polar bear, especially enjoys the cooler temperatures, and you can watch him play while you sit in the warm indoor viewing area. Don't miss the Sobela Ocean Aquarium, where you can explore marine life and meet Tortellini, the beloved sea turtle! Check the zoo’s website to see which animals will be in their habitats. KansasCityZoo.org
Sea Life Kansas City (2475 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.)
Get that warm tropical feeling by enjoying the beautiful colors of the animals at Sea Life. A favorite exhibit is the underwater tunnel, where you can see your favorite creatures up close. Your kids will love getting hands-on with sea stars, urchins, snails and more in the interactive touch pool. VisitSeaLife.com
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium (500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, Mo.)
Take a trip to Springfield to see wildlife galleries and sea life from around the world! “Seas” the day by adding a jaw-dropping experience with sharks, or waddle your way over to the penguin encounter. For tickets and hours, visit WondersOfWildlife.org.
If You Love History
Harry S. Truman Library and Museum (500 W. U.S. Highway 24, Independence) Experience our nation's history from The Great War to Truman’s presidential victory in 1948 in the museum’s sound-and-light theaters. Be sure to visit the special exhibits that are included with admission, and don't miss the replica of Truman's Oval Office, which offers a fascinating glimpse into his time as president. TrumanLibrary.gov
National WWI Museum and Memorial (2 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, Mo.) The WWI Museum is a great way to teach kids about U.S. history. The main exhibit immerses you in firsthand accounts of the war; a featured exhibit and a visit to the Liberty Memorial are available at an additional cost. They even have online exhibits for you to learn more after your visit. TheWorldWar.org
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm (1200 E. Kansas City Rd., Olathe)
Explore the grounds, visit the Agricultural Heritage Livestock Barn and view exhibits in the Heritage Center. To tour the Mahaffie house as well, check their calendar and visit on a living history day. Make sure to ask the volunteers all the questions you can—they love it! Mahaffie.org
