Let's face it... as much as we love to have fun in the sun, Kansas City summers can get HOT! Sometimes you just need a chance to cool off and relax. These are our top picks for "hot spots to cool off" in Kansas City!
Spend a Day at the Beach
- When, Where, What: For land-locked Midwesterners craving a little sand between their toes, we can’t offer an ocean view, but we do feature several sandy swim beaches for affordable family fun in the sun! Read our guide to Kansas City's Beaches to discover the best lake near you. For more fun at the lake, read our Guide to Fishing in Kansas City to discover the perfect fishing hole for your family.
- Why We LOVE It: There is nothing like a day at the beach to kick off summer memories with the family. Grab some sand toys, pack a picnic, and don't forget the sun screen and inflatables for a day of fun swimming at our local lakes!
Splash and Play in a Sprayground
- When, Where, What: Kansas City is home to several FREE Spraygrounds where children can run through sprinklers and play on a "water playground." We have your Guide to Spraygrounds in Kansas City!
- Why We LOVE It: Kansas City Summers can get HOT and we all need a fun way to cool of from time to time! Children enjoy the fun of water play and "running through the sprinklers" without a big water bill at home!
Dive In!
- When, Where, What: Discover Kansas City's many local pools and water parks with our guide to local pools (indoor and outdoor) in KC Going Places.
- Why We LOVE It: Kansas City's water parks boast giant water slides for the adventurous, lazy rivers for relaxation (okay, it depends on WHICH lazy river you're in whether it's really lazy....), and toddler pools with water play for every water lover!
Indoor Amusement Parks and Play Places
- When, Where, What: Ride roller coasters and great kiddie rides at Zonkers, or spend a day playing inside on inflatables at Leaping Lizards, Jumping Jax, Monkey Bizness and other great local venues. Older kids and teens will enjoy arcades at Paradise Park, Cool Crest or Mission Bowl. These ideas are just a tip of the iceberg. Read our complete list of Indoor Play Venues in KC Going Places.
- Why We Love It: Kids need to burn off energy and enjoy exercise and sometimes it's simply too hot to really enjoy the great outdoors. A day of play at an indoor play place can be just the cure!
Explore Kansas City's Museums
- When, Where, What: Kansas City is rich with terrific historic sites, art galleries, hands-on museums, science centers, and special interest museums to engage visitors of all ages and interests. Read our reviews of Kansas City Museums and see KC Going Places for a comprehensive guide to local museums.
- Why We LOVE It: Many of our favorite family memories are built at Kansas City's local museums. A few of our FAVORITES include: The Toy & Miniature Museum of Kansas City, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the College Basketball Experience.
Kaleidoscope
- When, Where, What: Kaleidoscope is a FREE hands-on art center for children sponsored by Hallmark. They offer walk-in sessions all summer, simply check Kaleidoscope's Calendar for details!
- Why We LOVE It: Creativity and imagination play in Kaleidoscope's magical hands-on world where children create masterpieces with super cool, super fun supplies, in a super amazing atmosphere all thanks to Hallmark. This is truly one of Kansas City's BEST family-friendly attractions! PLUS it is indoors... making it perfect for rainy days or days when you just need to "stay in the a/c"!
- Hot Tip: While you're there, stop by the Hallmark Visitor's Center next door, one of our "Watch It Made in KC" picks!
KidScape at the Johnson County Museum
- When, Where, What: Johnson County Museum (6305 Lackman Road, Shawnee, KS). Admission: FREE. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Sundays 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. 913.715.25550. Read our review of KidScape here.
- Why We LOVE It: KidScape is a delightful educational and hands-on exhibit for kids ages 3-9 (but our younger-than-3 children love it too!). Children escape into a child-sized suburban streetscape, where children role-play as community figures in educational environments: bookstore, park, City Hall, hospital, fashion boutique, farm, and theater.This is a terrific indoor option for super hot or rainy days! And, be sure to explore the rest of the Johnson County Museum on your trip. My children adore the pioneer home complete with a kitchen, dining table, and chicken coop. The historical exhibits in the Johnson County Museum tell the story of the area for older children - adults.