Kansas City is packed with family-friendly attractions that combine fun and learning. From exploring wildlife at the KC Zoo to discovering science at Science City and Wonderscope, these destinations are perfect for sparking curiosity and making lasting memories.
The KC Zoo & Aquarium
Sprawling over 200 acres, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 1,700 animals, making it one of the city’s largest and most affordable family edu-tainment destinations. I love that my family can take a trip around the world without ever leaving town as we explore the Asia, Africa and Australia sections within the zoo’s grounds. And walking isn’t the only way to take in the sights and sounds! My boys love hopping aboard a tram or train ride, taking a spin on the Endangered Species Carousel or flying high above the Serengeti on the Sky Safari. We can get an up-close-and-personal view of curious, cuddly and fierce animals at Polar Bear Plunge, Stingray Bay, Helzberg Penguin Plaza and the Discovery Barn. And don’t forget to check out the shows! Sea lions strut their stuff at Sea Lion Splash while feathered friends put on a dazzling display at Flights of Fancy!
Tips: Wear a pedometer to track all those steps you’ll get in; sport comfortable walking shoes (your feet will thank you!); don a baseball cap or sunglasses; and don’t forget the sunscreen! Bringing a little one? Don’t forget to pack a baby carrier or stroller (or if you’re packing light, simply rent a stroller at Guest Services). We prefer to bring our own sack lunches, snacks and water bottles (note: glass containers and alcoholic beverages are not allowed) to enjoy at one of the various outdoor picnic areas. Those looking for a special dining experience or a pick-me-up snack can choose from one of eight on-site dining options.
Science City at Union Station
Science City has been named one of the country’s top 25 science centers—and with good reason! This local marvel allows you and your child to explore, discover and create in its 50+ hands-on stations. Dig for dinosaur fossils at the Dig Site, then check in with professional paleontologists at the Dino Lab; unpack the human genome in “Genetics: Unlocking the Code”; and discover how levers and pulleys work at the outdoor Simple Machines at Play exhibit. Even the youngest guests have room to explore in the Tot Lot, an area designated for safe toddler play. As you plan your excursion, visit both Science City’s and Union Station’s websites to find information about upcoming special programs and events. Consider registering online for an upcoming group workshop where educators bring science to life in a whole new way! (Note: Workshops have an additional fee.) Science City is one of our family favorites because it has something for every age.
Tips: Science City isn’t the only attraction to call Union Station home. It also houses three theaters, allowing audiences of all ages to experience live shows as well as media presentations. The Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium provides four different shows covering stars, constellations, black holes, and outer space; the Theater for Young America brings talent to the stage through productions of literary classics; and the five-story-tall Extreme Screen Theater shows current blockbusters in both 2D and 3D. After a day of educational fun, sit back, relax and let the show begin!
Linda Hall Library
In the heart of Kansas City, Mo. sits the world’s largest privately funded library of science, technology and engineering: the Linda Hall Library. Gifted by the late Herbert and Linda Hall, the library is situated atop a 14-acre arboretum on the campus of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Patrons will find some of the most comprehensive life science, physical science, engineering and technology collections here, as well as educational programs, ongoing lecture series, exhibits and events. Because the library is a nonprofit institution, admission is free to the general public.
Tips: Guests can also visit the adjacent William N. Deramus III Cosmology Theater, which features a Space Telescope Science Institute research series entitled View Space. It also features various segments about Earth’s environment and natural disasters. Shows are approximately ten minutes long and are presented using state-of-the-art technology, including a 114-inch display screen, a 1080i projector and a stunning sound system. Library guests may also enjoy the urban arboretum, which boasts a peony garden and over 300 trees (including 12 Champion trees!).
Wonderscope
The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City has been a local fixture since 1989. Its location and programs have changed over the years, but one thing has remained the same: its mission of providing quality STEM-driven educational opportunities to Kansas City children and families. In 2020, Wonderscope developed an impressive 30,000-square-foot indoor facility and a sprawling half-acre outdoor adventure space. My younger two are entranced with Kansas City’s transportation history when they hop aboard the riverboat, railroad car and horse-drawn wagon at the Crossroads of Past & Future exhibit. Guests can splash and discover more about the City of Fountains’ rivers and waterways at Water Works. And what parent doesn’t love watching the imaginative play as their kiddos whip up orders in the KC Cafe or make a grocery run to the WonderMart?
Tips: Wonderscope provides open-ended play experiences, but they also offer a full schedule of programs and events. Check out their website to find a comprehensive listing of classes, such as Movement & Music, Circle Time, and Art Explorer. I appreciate that I can bring snacks or a picnic lunch when we visit. (There is no cafe on-site; however, vending machines are available in the designated Picnic Zone.) Also note that if the museum reaches capacity, they may pause guest entry to ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone inside.
