Cool adventures await in Kansas City. Whether ziplining through the woods, cracking codes to escape mystery rooms, learning to sky dive or riding extreme roller coasters, you’ll find adventures in KC for every daredevil enthusiast.
First on the list: What screams fun more than wet and wild waterparks?
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Schlitterbahn has lots to offer. Families can catch a few waves with the Boogie Bahn and even rent their own private cabana. Save big by purchasing your tickets online. (9400 State Ave., Kansas City, KS, 913.312.3110, www.Schlitterbahn.com/Kansas-City)
Oceans of Fun
Oceans of Fun gives families both togetherness and a carefree experience. Kids and adults alike have the opportunity to enjoy their own private pools—with the option to share. The Caribbean Cooler helps you relax and stay tranquil. Boat rides like Monsoon and quick thrills like Shark’s Revenge are sure to leave a heart-pounding impression. (4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.454.4545, www.WorldsOfFun.com)
Worlds of Fun
What’s even more attractive about Oceans of Fun is the fact that it’s attached to another attraction. That’s right, Oceans of Fun sits a gentle walk away from its sister park, Worlds of Fun! Rides like the Timber Wolf and the Mamba, however, are far from gentle. The parks’ hours vary, so be sure to visit the website and get your tickets early. (www.WorldsOfFun.com)
Next, on to the airborne extravaganzas!
Urban Air
Voted “Best of the Best” when it comes to trampoline parks, Urban Air is fun for men and women of all ages. Attractions like the foam pit, slam dunk track, fitness classes and wall-to-wall trampoline arenas are all fun and friendly ways to compete with your loved ones. Not only will places like this bring you and your family closer together, they help you welcome the warm weather the right way! Urban Air has all sorts of bundle packages for parties that are easy to access. (14404 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS, 800.960.4778, ext. 1, www.UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com/Overland-Park-Kansas-Trampoline-Park/)
Go Ape Zip Line
Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure in Swope Park is scheduled to set sail April 9. This brand new attraction has treetop and private group adventures. The 2- to 3-hour obstacle course includes 40 crossings that feature rope bridges, five zip lines, Tarzan swings and net bridges. Go Ape is new to Kansas City but not to the business. They have locations all across the United States and encourage you to “live life, adventurously.” Be sure to be among the first to find out what’s hangin’! (7331 Oakwood Dr., Kansas City, MO, 800.971.8271, GoApe.com/Zip-Line/Swope-Park)
Skydive KC
If you need just a little bit more of a thrill, try skydiving…no, really! Skydive KC is an amazing group of trained professionals who all get really high—and invite you to join them! Jumping from heights up to 14,000 feet from the ground, they’ve definitely earned their outstanding reputation. (1413 N. Orange, Butler, MO, 816.524.5867, SkyDiveKC.com)
Breakout KC
Plan your greatest escape with Breakout KC. Groups of two to eight people have one hour to work together to devise a great plan, crack codes and make their great escape. With rooms titled “Room 13,” “Szechuan Secret” and “The Truman Room,” this venue will bring out either the detective in you or the inner hero. Either way, you’ll be addicted! The prices are low, and the excitement is outrageous! (114 W. 3rd St., #102, Kansas City, MO, 816.945.2633) BreakoutKC.com).
Delicious Post-Adventure Dining
All of that adventure definitely works up an appetite. Beer Kitchen, also known as BK, serves up some of Kansas City’s best burgers and brews. This fan and family favorite, located in the Westport area, is definitely one to get in line for. (435 Westport Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.389.4180)
You can’t lose with barbecue! When in Rome...right? Barbecue is a staple in Kansas City, and But Jack Stack is a landmark. When visiting or even just enjoying Kansas City, you can’t lose at any of the Jack Stack locations. Family, food and great conversation are exactly what you’ll find there. Don’t forget to add an extra side of cheesy potato bake! (877.419.7427; five metro locations: www.JackStackBBQ.com)
Looking for something a little more kid friendly? Try Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant. This family favorite has been serving customers in Kansas City since the 1920s. Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant is known for its special delivery of food to your table—by model train! Fritz’s is family owned and operated, with locations in Shawnee, Kansas City, KS, and Crown Center. (816.474.4004, FritzsKC.com)
Kansas City is filled with wondrous adventures! The trick, above all, is finding and celebrating those wonders with the people you love. Happy hunting, Kansas City! Remember to bookmark those journeys.
Jessica Samuel is a Kansas City native with a flair for fun and a love of all things delicious. Her hometown does not disappoint.