Top 5 Free Family Activities in Kansas City

Kansas City is buzzing with activity during the late spring and summer months and has become a popular destination for family vacations. If you live in the city, you can enjoy easy access to several local attractions and parks. Kansas City is home to several farmsteads, old factories, botanical gardens and museums. Planning a staycation in Kansas City can help you save some money this year without compromising on a fun, relaxing, and even educational experience for all!

Here are just five of the top free family activities to enjoy in Kansas City:

#1: Day at the Cave Spring Interpretive Center

This nature attraction spans just about 36 acres of land and is home to a small cave where young kids can go spelunking for a few hours, several miles of walking trails, and a wildlife habitat pond. A day at the Cave Spring Historic Site and Nature Center can be a fun way to learn about nature and get some exercise in a scenic setting.

Cave Spring Interpretive Center
8701 East Gregory Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64133
(816) 358-2283
www.cavespring.org

#2: Explore the Kauffman Memorial Gardens
Home to a variety of sculptures, rock beds, botanical plants and scenic landscapes, these gardens serve as a peaceful sanctuary in Kansas City. Head here to take a self-guided tour any time of day. The gardens are open until dusk every day.

Kauffman Memorial Gardens
4800 Rockhill Road
Kansas City, MO 64110
(816) 932-1200
www.powellgardens.org

#3: Visiting Lakeside Nature Center
Another popular attraction for young nature lovers, this wildlife rehabilitation center is home to hundreds of species of native birds, wildlife, plants, and flowers. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the educational exhibits and catch a glimpse of many animals living in their natural habitat.

Lakeside Nature Center
4701 East Gregory Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64132
(816) 513-8960
www.lakesidenaturecenter.org

#4: Play at Penguin Park
If you want to break away from the busy downtown area and enjoy some play time with the kids, spend a few hours at Penguin Park. The themed playgrounds are home to several swing sets, slides, and other old-fashioned playground toys.

Penguin Park
North Vivion Road and North Norton Avenue
Kansas City, MO 64119
(816) 513-7500

#5: Visit the Shoal Creek Living History Museum
Spend the entire day learning about 19^th century life by visiting this living history museum. Shoal Creek Living History Museum is home to more than 20 authentic buildings and visitors can register for one of the educational programs or take a tour of the grounds to experience life in the 1800s firsthand.

Shoal Creek Living History Museum
7000 NE Barry Road
Kansas City, MO 64156
(816) 792-2655
www.kcmo.org/parks