The kids are out of school for the summer and parents are looking for ways to keep little minds active and engaged all summer. Here’s our list of several kid-friendly stops in the KC metro area where you’ll find time for fun, exploration, and imagination! Make sure to download the free Otocast app for all of our KC Trip ideas!
Bonner Springs – Moon Marble Company
In 1997, artisan and owner Bruce Breslow opened Moon Marble Company in Bonner Springs. If you’ve never visited, make sure to put this stop on your list! Inside, you’ll find a dizzying array of marbles and traditional toys and games, as well as gift items for all. Bruce does demonstrations throughout the day (call for a specific time before you head out). During demonstrations, you will learn about glass working, marble history, and other fascinating areas of marble interest. Moon Marble also exhibits and sells the work of several dozen prominent glassworkers from across the country. More details >
Gardner – Gieringer’s Family Orchard and Berry Farm
Summer is when the produce is the best and freshest! At Gieringer’s Family Orchard and Berry Farm, you can u-pick the freshest produce and let the kids play on the playground for a full day of fun. Check out their harvest calendar and plan your visit at their website.
Kansas City, Kan. – Boulevard Drive-In
The Boulevard Drive-In leads the way in digital technology, and was the first drive-in theater in the world to install digital sound. Boulevard features newly released movies and on the weekends the drive-in turns into a Swap N' Shop weekends, where you can shop for fresh vegetables, antiques and goods. Call their movie line at (913) 262.0392 for current showings or visit boulevarddrivein.com for more information. Boulevard Drive-In is located at 1051 Merriam Lane.
Kansas City, Missouri - The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum
The region’s only accessible, non-profit children’s museum dedicated to providing STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math – educational experiences for young children and their families. Wonderscope features 30,000 square feet of indoor exploration and 1/2 acre of year-round outdoor adventure, all with a unique Kansas City theme. The museum is easily accessible via public transportation and major roadways. Plan Your Visit >
Leavenworth – C.W. Parker Carousel Museum
Leavenworth’s #1 attraction opened in 2005 and features a newly restored, fully operational 1913 C.W. Parker carousel, originally made in Leavenworth by the C.W. Parker Carousel Amusement Company. The carousel was created during the period when this company was famous nationally and internationally for its unique amusement devices. Also on display is the oldest primitive carousel in the United States and a 1950s aluminum Paul Parker Carousel. More details >
Lenexa – Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
Urban Air is the ultimate indoor adventure park where kids of all ages (and kids at heart) can explore thrilling attractions, challenge their body and mind, and most importantly…have a blast! Families can jump, soar, race, climb and play seven days a week. Birthday parties and celebrations are welcome at Urban Air. More details >
Liberty - City Park
City Park in Liberty was completely renovated and reopened in 2021 as an inclusive playground and sprayground that kids of all abilities can enjoy. The play equipment is designed to meet the widest range of needs and abilities to create a socially-inclusive play space for all children, regardless of ability. The sprayground at City Park is now open for the season (Memorial Day - Labor Day, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.) and features a giant splash bucket that the kids LOVE! City Park is located at 970 S 291 Hwy in Liberty, MO. More details >
Merriam – Wild West Fun at Antioch Park
Voted one of the best playgrounds in Johnson County, Dodge Town at Antioch Park is reminiscent of a child-sized main street in the wild west. For generations, Dodge Town has been one of the most popular play areas in the area. Situated on the northeast edge of the 44-acre Antioch Park, Dodge Town features a schoolhouse, bank, pony express, city hall with clock tower, general store, blacksmith shop, horses and cows, and a train station complete with a shaded seating for parents. Antioch Park also features two fishing lakes, walking paths, tennis courts, picnic shelters, a playground with climbing wall, a rose garden and a basketball court. Bring your kiddos to Antioch Park at 6501 Antioch Road in Merriam for a rootin' tootin' good time at Dodge Town! More details >
Olathe – Calamity Line Park
Calamity Line Park in Olathe offers a half-mile walking trail, interpretive signs, a playground, and shelter for guests to enjoy. Ample space is available at Calamity Line Park complete with a charcoal grill, seating for 32, and evening lighting. More details >
Overland Park - Johnson County Museum KidScape
Explore the signature exhibition, ‘Becoming Johnson County’, to gain a deeper understanding of the county’s history. The 1950s All-Electric House, the centerpiece of the exhibit, exemplifies the American Dream many hoped to find in Johnson County. The changing exhibit space features special exhibits throughout the year. The kids can enjoy a fun hands-on learning experience at KidScape. More details >
Shawnee – Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
Fritz’s is famous for old fashioned hamburgers made with 100% choice ground beef, grilled onions seared in the meat, toasted buns and always “cooked to order.” At Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant you can experience the fun and delight as your meal is delivered directly to your table by our signature overhead train. Kids and adults alike will never forget the excitement of watching food being lowered to surrounding tables by our amazing delivery trains, and the anticipation of their own food delivery. It’s a great time for the entire family, with fun for the kids and delicious food for Mom and Dad. Come out and join the fun!