KC Going Places Magazine Spring/Summer 2016

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

spring/summer 2016

kcgoingplaces.com

DISCOVER OUR

CITY BEAUTIFUL

500 WAYS TO EXPLORE KC

ultimate guide to kc’s

coolest districts – daytime & night!

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50

MEGA

fun ways to

savor summer!

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BEST FESTS EXTREME THRILLS WINE TOURS

physicians

lee’s

summit

group

Lee’s Summit Physicians 1425 N.W. Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.524.5600 LSPhysicians.com

We offer pediatric walk-in urgent care seven days a week, medical advice by phone, after-hours on-call physicians and online scheduling!

Raintree Pediatrics 995 SW 34th St. Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.525.4700 Raintree-Pediatrics.com Blue Springs Pediatrics 1600 NW South Outer Road Blue Springs, Missouri 816.554.6520 BlueSpringsPediatric.com

Sallie L. Veenstra, MD Barbara S. Trites, MD Lisa B. Fletcher, MD Deann E. DeWitt, MD Allison C. Henschel, MD Sarah J. Gladstone, MD Bryan L. Phillips, MD Daniel E. Gershon, DO Veronica Manka, MD Jeffrey P. Yannette, MD Jennifer M. Sauer, MD Ashley Campbell, DO

Urgent Care Blue Parkway office Mon-Thur 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Sat-Sun 8:00 -11:00 am Blue Springs & Raintree Mon-Fri 8:00 am -11:00 am

Danielle Leivian, MD Robin Dawson, MD Cynthia M. Dean, DO Anne Parkin-Cohen, MD Lauren Lee, C-PNP Kelly R. Fritz, C-PNP Julie Kirkpatrick, C-PNP Camille Lucitto, C-PNP Sarah Dedrick, C-PNP

Scheduled appointments Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm Free Prenatal Consults Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm

trust.

healthcare you can 2

kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Angela Stott, C-PNP Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP Tiffany Vitt, C-PNP

the ultimate guide for tourists in KC

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OUT & ABOUT Summer Festival Guide Must-See KC Weekend Fun Guide 50 Ways to Savor Summer in KC Facebook Fans Pick KC’s Hot Spots

PLAYTIME 28 25 Ways to Have More Fun in KC 29 Indoor Fun 33 Outdoor Fun

15 FEATURES 8 Getting to Know Kansas City

Eight unique ways to explore Kansas City 14

KC Adventure Guide Thrilling adventures for the daredevil in you

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Ultimate Guide to KC’s Coolest Districts Eclectic explorations to tempt your taste buds

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Getting Around KC Coolest ways to get from point A to point B in KC

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Kansas City Wine Tour Locally harvested Missouri and Kansas wines

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Kid & Parent Approved Restaurants The best family-friendly dining

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Extraordinary Accommodations The most unusual places to stay

60 Agritourism Gardens, farms and farm-to-table destinations

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NATURE Hands-on Learning Animal Attractions Gardens Nature Centers

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MUSEUMS Outing Add Ons Arts Children’s Museums History Science Special Interest

SHOWTIME 62 Dinner and a Show 63 Dance, Music & Theater

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SPORTS Locally Made Souvenirs Bowling Pools & Waterparks Miniature Golf Pro, Semi-Pro & College Sports

editor’s letter Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

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isitors to Kansas City frequently comment that the city is cooler and better than they expected for a city in the heart of the nation. As a lifelong native, I loved my hometown before loving it was cool—but I’m thrilled to see the progress Kansas City is making and that others are #KCProud too. The beautification, the new attractions, the improvements to beloved favorites and the successes for the Kansas City Royals, Chiefs and Sporting KC are all helping to put KC on the map as a great place to raise a family and a great place to visit.

From an exciting urban center where updated shopping and entertainment districts are thriving, to growing suburban areas with new attractions opening almost every month, there is something for everyone.

My family is especially excited to be cheering for the 2015 World Series champion Kansas City Royals this season at The K. We love that koalas are visiting the Kansas City Zoo this season, and we’re planning trips to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead with friends.

Summer is also festival season in Kansas City. If asked to choose a favorite, I’d have to say it’s impossible! Each festival has its own trademarks that make it truly special. My family makes it a tradition to attend Celebration at the Station, my husband loves Maker Faire, and I’m a fan of Strawberry Swing and the local community festivals and ethnic fests. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art throws a party like none other, and their Big Picnic is a not-to-be-missed summer event. Powell Gardens’ Festival of Butterflies is such a beloved favorite for my daughters, we make it a tradition to attend as many days of the festival as we possibly can, taking new families and friends each time we go.

This time of year is also a favorite for fresh produce from our local farmers markets, where you can meet the grower, choose the best and enjoy live entertainment and festival fun at many markets. You’ll find a guide to local markets on www.KCParent.com and can search “Farm-to-Table” on www.KCParent.com for a guide to local restaurants known for serving the tastiest in locally grown foods.

These are just a few of the things I enjoy about Kansas City. You’ll find many more as you flip through the pages of KC Going Places.

Welcome to Kansas City! We’re happy you’re here and we hope you love it just as much as we do!

Kristina Light, Editor

Cover photo: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is featured on the cover of KC Going Places.

Cover photo courtesy of Visit KC. Select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com

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kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Managing Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Editor Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Margaret Bristow, Kansas City Tisha Foley, Kansas City Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Karen Johnson, Olathe Sara Keenan, Kansas City Jessica Samuel, Kansas City Margaret Sarver, Lenexa Heather Shields, Kansas City Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone 913.681.5139 fax

Find us on Facebook: Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Follow us on Twitter: @KCParent Pinterest.com/KCParent

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KC Going Places is published 2 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Going Places’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. KC Going Places Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Going Places will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially.

KC Going Places often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

LStourism.com

getting to know kansas city: FREE Fun

Art Exploration

Roasterie

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

If you’re looking for family fun on a shoestring, Kansas City offers an abundance of terrific choices. These are a few of our top picks for free family fun! See www.KCParent.com for “Free Fun” all year long on our calendar. Also, search “50 ideas under $5” for more budget-friendly ideas.

The Adventures of Mr. Potato Head, May 28-Sept. 5 at Crown Center, is a free hands-on traveling exhibit created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Hasbro. The exhibit features Mr. Potato Head, the muchloved silly character who becomes an explorer, scientist and adventurer with a change of his “parts.”

Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope is one of the most popular family-friendly destinations in Kansas City. If Willy Wonka were commissioned to create an art center for children, Kaleidoscope would be the outcome. Hallmark and Crayola sponsor this free art center, and kids discover a magical world where they create glow-in-the-dark art, watch their paintings dry in a robot-inspired dryer right before their eyes, wash their hands in modern art sculptures and create masterpieces they transform into jigsaw puzzles with the turn of a wheel.

Little ones will enjoy the free KidScape exhibit at the Johnson County Museum, a hands-on child-sized suburban streetscape, where children role-play as community figures in educational environments.

For unforgettable free fun, visit the Money Museum, where you’ll take home a souvenir bag of cash… shredded cash, that is! Interactive exhibits explore banking, basic economics and the financial policies that affect your family.

Driving through Kansas City you notice a building with an airplane mounted on the roof, and it arouses your curiosity. What could it be? That airplane has become the trademark of the Roasterie, known for selling premier airroasted coffee. The business offers one of the most fun free tours in town.

Kansas City is home to many remarkable art galleries, with three of her finest open to the public for free! The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, one of the largest galleries in the United States, maintains a permanent collection representing art from throughout history and around the world. Visitors enjoy the galleries and, on sunny days, picnic or stroll the landscaped museum grounds and sculpture garden.

For modern art enthusiasts, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art exhibit permanent and temporary galleries with special events and workshops for families.

The Kansas City Crossroads District is an eclectic and artistic neighborhood with unique art, boutiques and locally-owned restaurants. On the first Friday of each month year-round, local galleries, retailers and artists feature free exhibits to peruse. Enjoy entertainment and art as you stroll through the galleries and shops in the heart of the city.

Create family keepsakes at Paint, Glaze & Fire, Ceramics Cafe and more paint-your-own pottery shops. Patrons select and paint their own ceramic masterpieces—anything from piggy banks to plates, mugs to picture frames and many holiday pieces, as well.

BYOB paint-your-own-canvas shops are a fun trend across the city, each offering diverse calendars with a variety of masterpieces you can create following simple step-by-step instructions. Customers sign up for a class, bring their own beverage and spend an evening creating a personal work of art to take home and display. See pg.

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Search the calendar on KCParent.com and click on “Free” for more great ideas!

tour the town!

Animal Adventures

Kansas City History

Sea Life Aquarium

National World War I Museum and Memorial

Meet exotic animals at the Kansas City Zoo, where Berlin the polar bear, the Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Sumatran Tiger Exhibit and the Tropics are favorite new attractions.

This year, the zoo’s newest attraction is the visiting koalas from San Diego. Ride the train, carousel, boat, tram and Sky Safari to enjoy terrific views of the animals.

Sea Life Aquarium features a tropical ocean tank with a walk-through underwater tunnel and an enthralling exhibit featuring a variety of fish, octopus, seahorses, sharks, sea turtle, sting ray, eels and more.

Cedar Cove in Louisburg, KS, is an animal refuge for a variety of endangered or rescued big cats. Tour Cedar Cove to see leopards, cougars, wolves, bobcats, a white tiger, black leopards and caracals. On Saturdays through October, Cedar Cove hosts public feedings of the cats and remains open until 5:00, weather permitting.

The Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead (open AprilOctober) depicts a turn-of-the-century farm at an incredible 12-acre park with more than 200 farm animals, gardens, a dairy barn, pony rides and much more.

Enjoy special programs and events at local nature centers: Lakeside Nature Center, Burr Oak Woods, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary, Ernie Miller Nature Center, Parkville Nature Sanctuary or George Owens Nature Center.

If you love prehistoric animals, you’re in for a treat. This summer, see dinosaurs up close and personal at Powell Gardens at their special Jurassic Garden exhibit. And visit in August during their annual Festival of Butterflies. Or visit Worlds of Fun where you can see life-sized dinosaurs at their walk-through Dinosaurs Alive attraction.

Spend a day at the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the nation’s museum dedicated to the history of the Great War. Be sure to take a tour to the top of one of Kansas City’s most iconic landmarks, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the city’s ever-changing and improving skyline.

Buried treasure! The prospect holds an allure for the adventurous nature in all of us. Visit the Arabia Steamboat Museum and learn about the excavation of the 1850s steamboat and her treasure on display at a 25,000-squarefoot museum. After viewing the cargo, visitors stand on a full-sized reproduction of the boat’s main deck with its original boilers and steam engine, where murals depict life in Kansas City in the 1850s. The museum’s story is one of a great adventure.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm in Johnson County brings 1850s farming to life with tours and programs all year, including stagecoach rides, family programs and a working blacksmith shop. On Thursday evenings in June and July enjoy free living history programs for the entire family (small fee for stagecoach rides and some projects).

Missouri Town 1855 and Shoal Creek Living History Museum are two historic villages teaching pioneer life through fun events, festivals and programs. Shawnee Town 1929 is a slightly more modern village where families explore living history firsthand.

At the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence, you can load a wagon bound for Oregon and learn about the Westward Expansion. For a truly historic experience, take a wagon tour with Pioneer Trails Adventures.

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Search “Day Trips” on KCParent.com for more great itineraries to match your interests! kcgoingplaces.com

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getting to know kansas city: Hometown Heroes

Shopping Spree

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Downtown Lee’s Summit

It’s been said that jazz was born in New Orleans, but it grew up in Kansas City. There’s no better place to experience Kansas City jazz and celebrate our finest musicians than at 18th & Vine with a visit to the American Jazz Museum and a live concert at the Gem or the Blue Room.

Then, head next door and visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, where you’ll discover the history of American baseball from the African-American perspective, beginning in 1863, and get to know many famous local baseball stars. Kids and adults alike will love measuring up against the life-size bronze statues of players in mid-game on the baseball diamond.

The Kansas City area was home to the 33rd president of the United States, Harry S. Truman. Learn about his childhood at the Truman Farm, his humble lifestyle at the Truman Home in Independence and his presidency at the Truman Presidential Library. There, visitors participate in interactive exhibits, including a replica Oval Office; they also explore Truman artifacts and special exhibits.

Missouri was home to many famous artists, and you can tour their homes today. The Thomas Hart Benton Home and the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, former home of artist George Caleb Bingham, are two museums sharing the personal histories of two of Missouri’s most influential artists.

The First Lady of Flight, Amelia Earhart, was born in Atchison, KS. The Amelia Earhart Birthplace tells the story of the legendary lady and her childhood adventures. While you’re in Atchison, make a point to take a trolley ride and enjoy other attractions.

Learn firsthand about life in the 1850s in Kansas City on a tour of the John Wornall House Museum, home of one of Kansas City’s original citizens and local senator, or the Alexander Majors House, home of the founder of the Pony Express.

Shop till you drop at one of Kansas City’s shopping districts.

The Country Club Plaza, modeled after the architecture of Seville, Spain, is one of Kansas City’s most recognized landmarks and home to many of the city’s most beautiful fountains, best restaurants and upscale shops.

Downtown Lee’s Summit has been awarded the “Great American Main Street Award,” and it’s easy to see why!

This shopping district is one of the most vibrant in the area.

Start with a discovery of the area’s history at the Lee’s Summit Historical Society Museum, housed in a 1905 train depot in the heart of downtown. The area offers restaurants ranging from upscale to the local diner, but kids’ favorites seem to be Poppy’s Ice Cream and the Filling Station Barbeque. Visit shops and boutiques, including bookstores, hobby shops, clothing boutiques, art galleries, cooking stores and more.

Head west to the Legends Outlets for a day of shopping and local attractions. The shopping center features statues commemorating local celebrities. Nearby, adrenaline junkies love to cheer for their favorite drivers as the Kansas Speedway hosts NASCAR races. The speedway offers many experiences adding to the entertainment for families, whether you purchase a pit pass or scanners to track cars throughout the race.

Brookside is known for quaint boutiques and eclectic shops—including some of the most FUN shops for kids!

Brookside Toy & Science, a store named....Stuff and the New Dime Store are just a few favorites. With a weekend farmers market, a variety of restaurants and nearby Loose Park with the prettiest rose garden in the area, this is a favorite Saturday day trip.

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tour the town!

Play Like a Pro

City Beautiful

Topgolf

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

The newest trend to hit the scene in Kansas City is the escape room entertainment concept. Two of the most popular venues offer this game experience: Breakout KC and Escape Room KC. Players are given one hour to solve puzzles and unravel codes to escape a real life scenario.

Grab a group of friends or family and work as a team to crack the code.

Topgolf is an entertainment complex for golf enthusiasts. Play point-scoring golf games for anyone from expert golfers to children and enjoy the luxury of indoor play on a 240-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground.

Another new attraction is iFly KC, an indoor skydiving facility. The indoor skydiving is a simulation of true freefall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel. The dream of flight becomes a reality!

The Richard Petty Driving Experience (800.237.3889) at the Kansas Speedway lets fans ride shotgun at speeds of up to 165 mph, or get behind the wheel and drive a 600-horsepower NASCAR race car for eight to 18 laps.

For the adventurous, choose one of two zip line tours in Kansas City. Go Ape recently opened in Swope Park with a treetop adventure course (zip lines, obstacles and more).

Or try Adventure Zip KC in Bonner Springs, where you can enjoy a 143-acre park with a 300-foot elevation change.

Kansas City’s own Worlds of Fun (open through October) is a roller coaster enthusiast’s dream park! It’s home to seven world-class roller coasters, including one of the tallest, longest and fastest roller coasters in the world, the Mamba, with a first drop of 205 feet.

Kansas City is home to three botanical gardens.

Kauffman Memorial Gardens may be the smallest, but it earns its place in the hearts of locals as one of the most beautiful places in the city, perfect for a stroll and photography. The gardens are FREE and open to the public.

Powell Gardens is home to a beautiful island garden, rock wall garden, conservatory, Heartland Harvest Garden, Iris Hill and acres of trails overlooking beautiful flowers, plants and prairie. The Overland Park Arboretum is home to a Monet garden, train garden and beautiful trails to explore.

Kansas City is also rich with terrific parks and green spaces, many of them featuring creative playgrounds with larger-than-life animals, castles, pirate ships, fire trucks and more. Search for “Best Parks in Kansas City” on www.KCParent.com to discover our top picks.

Union Station Kansas City is more than a century old and it still is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

This year, the landmark is expanding to offer more exhibit space and attractions for visitors. Currently home to Science City, the Gottlieb Planetarium, Amtrak and local shops and restaurants, the station remains a premier visitor attraction.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is the newest crown jewel in Kansas City’s skyline, and this fall visitors will delight in live shows from the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera, Kansas City Symphony and touring productions.

Some of Kansas City’s oldest architectural icons have experienced a rebirth. The Central Library downtown, housed in an old bank, is one of the most beautiful libraries in the Midwest—and you even can play chess with life-sized pieces on the roof. The Kansas City Museum, at home in the historic Northeast, is undergoing renovations, and the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures reopened last year after a magical transformation.

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Click “Going Places” on KCParent.com for a virtual guide to Kansas City’s attractions.

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kids, crafts and vendors, the carnival and parade, games and contests, and much more.

Jazzoo June 3, Kansas City Zoo, KansasCityZoo.org/Jazzoo.

Savor delicious bites from the finest Kansas City restaurants, enjoy live entertainment and sip on refreshing drinks from specialty bars at the Kansas City Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and party.

Strawberry Swing Whether you fancy a good old-fashioned county fair, an ethnic festival with delicious delicacies or something a bit more out of the ordinary, Kansas City has something for everyone! These are our favorite summer festivals in the metro area. For a complete summer festival guide, visit KCParent.com.

Strawberry Swing April 30-May 1, Alexander Majors Barn & Grounds, TheStrawberrySwing.org. This indie craft fair showcases the handmade work of independent craftspeople, artists and designers. Vendors appearing at the Strawberry Swing have a DIY background and are mostly self-taught artists. The Swing also features food trucks, a photo booth and some other activities for adults and children to enjoy (like a kids craft table).

Children’s Day & National Trails Day June 4, Missouri Town 1855 (8010 E. Park Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO), makeyourdayhere.com/Calendar.aspx. Kids get a glimpse into simpler days through the time-honored games of yesteryear: tug-of-war, marbles and gunny sack races!

Lee’s Summit Downtown Days June 3-5, Downtown Lee’s Summit, DowntownLS.org. Downtown Days is a familyfriendly festival featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts, a carnival, KCBS-sanctioned barbecue contest, delicious food and much more!

The Dragon Boat Festival June 11, Brush Creek along the Country Club Plaza, ChinaGardenSociety-KC.org.

Dragon boats race along Brush Creek, and live entertainment and delicious food are also part of the festivities.

Maker Faire Kansas City June 25 & 26, Union Station, MakerFaireKC.com. This festival celebrates things people

Celebration at the Station May 29, at Union Station, Kansas City, MO, www.kcsymphony.org/Celebration. The Kansas City Symphony performs a two-hour concert featuring crowd favorites, including Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, complete with live cannons. The concert culminates with a grand finale when all eyes turn skyward for a stunning display of choreographed fireworks, presented to the beat of patriotic music above the National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial—Kansas City’s largest fireworks display of the year!

Old Shawnee Days June 2-5, Old Shawnee Town and Downtown Shawnee, OldShawneeDays.org. Music all weekend features both nationally known recording artists and great local bands, entertainment for both adults and

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The Dragon Boat Festival

create themselves—from new technology and electronic gizmos to urban farming and “slow-made” foods, as well as homemade clothes, quilts and sculptures. This family-friendly event brings together makers, crafters, inventors, hackers, scientists and artists for a faire full of fun and inspiration.

Flags for Freedom July 2-9, Merriam Marketplace, Flags4Freedom.org. More than 1,200 American flags on display with concerts, ceremonies and festivities throughout the event honoring the American Armed Services.

Kansas City’s Big Picnic July 17, 4:00-7:00, lawn of Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Nelson-Atkins.org/things-todo/events/festivals/. Participate in a giant picnic space and bring KC together for a fun-filled evening of outdoor activities for all ages—including four-legged friends! Pack a picnic or grab your dinner from an on-site food truck. Enjoy live performances and more.

pate each year with booths showcasing food and crafts from each, and live performances on stage with dance, music, martial arts and skills demonstrations.

Missouri

State

Fair Aug. 11-21, Sedalia, MO,

MoStateFair.com. The 400-acre fairgrounds will present premier livestock shows, competitive exhibits and firstclass professional entertainment. The Missouri State Fair will once again host a stellar lineup of outstanding entertainment, including concerts by country artists Chris Janson and LOCASH and Christian rock groups Newsboys and Hawk Nelson.

Festival of Butterflies Aug. 5-7 & 12-14, Powell Gardens, PowellGardens.org. Powell Gardens transforms its 2,500-square-foot conservatory into a temporary butterfly house, filled to the brim with gorgeous blooms and hundreds of tropical butterflies. Highlights include a native butterfly breezeway by master gardeners, Monarch Watch and the Idalia Society, kids crafts, storytelling, a costume parade, a butterfly catch-and-release area and much more.

Ethnic Enrichment Festival of Kansas City Aug. 1921, Swope Park, EECKC.org. More than 60 nations partici-

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ADVENTURE GUIDE Cool adventures await in Kansas City. Whether plunging from record breaking heights into a pool of water, 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.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark With featured rides like Verrückt (the world’s tallest waterslide), 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 & Worlds 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.

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. Enjoy both theme parks for the price of one ticket. (4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.454.4545, www.WorldsOfFun.com)

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/OverlandPark-Kansas-Trampoline-Park/) 14 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Urban Air Trampline Park’s Urban Warrior Obstacle Course

Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure

Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure

Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure in Swope Park just opened to the public this spring. 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)

iFly If you need just a little bit more of a thrill, try skydiving…no, really! iFly 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. (10975 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS, 913.305.4359, iFlyWorld.com)

Breakout KC

Oceans of Fun

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). kcgoingplaces.com 15

potato bake! (877.419.7427; five metro locations: www.JackStackBBQ.com)

Taco Republic

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, BeerKitchenKC.com) You can’t lose with barbecue! When in Rome... right? Barbecue is a staple in Kansas City, and 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

After a day exploring the town, head to 47th & Mission, where both corners of the street boast casual, only-in-KC restaurants that are located in renovated, old-time gas stations. Taco Republic (913.262-8226, EatTacoRepublic.com), a laid-back, original style taqueria, offers the real-deal tacos with homemade tortillas both in a sit-down environment as well as a walk-up, to-go window. Local tip: Order their Bernardo’s Texaz Dip—it will not disappoint!

On the other side of the street, you’ll find the iconic Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Multiple Locations, JoesKC.com), one of the most popular restaurants in the metro with folks oftentimes lined up outside the building. Be sure to try their Z-Man sandwich (consider it on Texas toast) when you are feasting at this award-winning restaurant.

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.

FREE FESTIVALS 10th Annual Mother’s Day for Mother Earth Celebration May 8 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Kansas City’s Big Picnic July 17 | 4–7 p.m.

American Indian Cultural Festival September 25 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

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Kansas City Metropolitan Area Use this map to help plan your tourism itinerary. Each listing in KC Going Places includes the map coordinates to help you find the nearby attractions! For instance, Kansas City Zoo (p. 35) is located at C4 on this map.

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Check out www.KCParent.com for exact venue locations, interactive maps and more!

*Map not to scale.

A

B

C

D

kcgoingplaces.com 17

s

Koalas at the Kansas City Zoo (KansasCityZoo.org) A

pair of koalas will be spending the spring and summer at the Kansas City Zoo as part of the zoo’s ongoing commitment to further conservation and animal education.

kansas city 12 must-sees in

it’s a not-to-be-missed list for your spring & summer

t Jurassic Garden at Powell Gardens (PowellGardens.org) From May 21 to Oct. 3, journey back to the prehistoric world to encounter more than 20 dinosaurs and oversized ancient insects.

Discover the plants and animals of the prehistoric world through an exhibit created by Missouri’s own Guy Darrough. With amazingly accurate dinosaur replicas lurking in natural settings, a new life-size dinosaur dig and many things to see and do, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss.

s New Rides at Worlds of Fun in 2016 (WorldsofFun.com) Five new family rides will join an expanded Planet Snoopy at Worlds of Fun, including Woodstock Gliders, where young guests control their own flight with moveable, stationary wings; Flying Ace, where riders get their aviator glasses ready for a high-flying adventure with Snoopy; and Snoopy Space Buggies let riders defy gravity and bounce to the moon and back. On the Linus Launcher, experience the sensation of weightlessness through flight with feet dangling, then all aboard for Snoopy Junction, where Snoopy the conductor leads kids on a railroad adventure.

18 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

t Ride Verr端ckt at Schlitterbahn (Schlitterbahn.com) The tallest water slide in the world measures 51.38 meters (168 ft., 7 in.) and can be found at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, KS. Families enjoy shared experiences, such as an interconnected river system that takes them through more than a mile of rapids, currents and tidal waves. Guests challenge towering water slides and a thrilling water coaster, then ride the wave on the Boogie Bahn surf ride. Kids splash and play on 13 mini slides. Relax on beaches, in private cabanas or in a heated pool with a swim-up refreshment bar.

s The Kansas City Royals (KansasCity.Royals.mlb.com) The 2015 World Series champions celebrate their 44th season at Kauffman Stadium, beginning with their home opener on April 3 against the New York Mets.

s Races at Kansas Speedway (KansasSpeedway.com) May 6 is the 2016 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Toyota Tundra 250, and May 7 is the 2016 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Go Bowling 400. And in the fall, fans look forward to the Oct. 14 NASCAR Qualifying Day and ARCA Racing Series, Oct. 15 NASCAR Xfinity Series Kansas Lottery 300 and Oct. 16 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Hollywood Casino 400.

Parking at Kansas Speedway is free, and fans can bring in a soft-sided cooler filled with their favorite food and beverages. kcgoingplaces.com 19

s

The National World War I Museum and Memorial

(TheWorldWar.org) is one of the most respected history museums in the nation. With tremendous state-of-the-art exhibits telling the story of World War I and, more importantly, the soldiers and civilians of the era—their sacrifices, their journeys—this is one of Kansas City’s most important attractions.

kansas city 12 must-sees in

it’s a not-to-be-missed list for your spring & summer

s The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org) reopened in 2015 with new exhibits and interactive

experiences showcasing the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collections of antique toys.

20 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

s

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (www.nlbm.com/) At

home in Kansas City’s famous 18th & Vine district, this museum tells the rich story of AfricanAmerican history and celebrates Kansas City’s most beloved players, including Buck O’Neill. The American Jazz Museum, the Blue Room and Gem Theater are other favorite attractions in the neighborhood.

t Operation Laser Tag at Paradise Park (Paradise-Park.com)

Opening spring 2016, this is Jackson County’s first tactical laser tag. The new indoor arena and equipment bring the modern video game to life through an exciting tactical laser tag experience suitable for players 8 and older.

t Legends Outlets in Kansas City, KS (LegendsShopping.com)

is Kansas City’s premier outdoor shopping and entertainment center and the only designer outlet center in the market. With a diverse and exciting tenant lineup satisfying every style, every age and every price range, Legends Outlets is a true shopping destination—and nearly half of the stores and restaurants have their only location in Kansas City at Legends Outlets.

Photo by Earl Richardson

s Union Station (UnionStation.org) has been one of Kansas City’s most recognized landmarks for 101 years. Today, visitors explore Science City, watch shows at Gottlieb Planetarium and the Extreme Screen and dine at restaurants. World-class traveling exhibits appear seasonally and this summer’s exhibit promises to be another visitor favorite.

kcgoingplaces.com 21

ultimate guide to

McCoys

KC’s Coolest Districts 22 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

spot for food, drink and the music scene. Order a slice of pizza, choose a pint from the extensive list of beers on tap and head out to the back patio to eat while enjoying a live concert. The Rieger Hotel Grill & Exchange always garners rave reviews for a special dinner out on the town, and be sure to enjoy a first-class cocktail after dinner downstairs at Manifesto, one of Kansas City’s best-kept secrets. For dessert, check out Snow & Co. for a sweet frozen libation. Conclude your evening in the Crossroads by relaxing in the Green Lady Lounge, which is quickly becoming a premier experience in the Kansas City jazz scene.

WESTPORT

D

Did you know that Forbes has listed downtown Kansas City as one of the best in the nation? Or that the Huffington Post voted KC among the top 10 cities for creatives and among the top 20 for most cultured? We truly do live in a unique and vibrant metropolis! Here is a beginner’s guide to just a few of the eclectic adventures that await you in some of Kansas City’s coolest districts:

CROSSROADS First Fridays: Every first Friday of the month, the Crossroads district is transformed into a hip arts and entertainment scene. Art galleries showcase the work of Kansas City’s newest and most talented artists. Local bands entertain on the street corners, in restaurants, and often complement gallery exhibits. Restaurants and a variety of food trucks are on hand to fuel the throngs with samplings of the city’s most diverse culinary flavors.

Day into Night Spots: Serving Kansas City residents for more than 150 years, Westport transforms itself daily. From an early-morning breakfast or coffee run, to brunch, to a romantic dinner, to a late night out, Westport offers something for everyone. Begin your day with a scrumptious gourmet, hand-crafted doughnut (like a maple bacon long john!) at the new Doughnut Lounge. For a midday meal, the eats don’t get any better than those at the Westport Cafe and Bar, which features a special brunch menu that includes a complimentary Bellini, mimosa, Bloody Mary, coffee or soft drink! And for dinner, McCoy’s Public House is a Westport staple. The Roadhouse Burger and house-made root beer always hit the spot. To take your day into night, step through the walkway into the Foundry, which often features a local DJ spinning cool vibes well into the evening.

Start your introduction to various art mediums at the Bauer, a historic building that houses local artists’ workspaces and galleries. One artist’s studio not to miss is that of Kate E. Burke—she is currently working on printed and dyed textiles and creating textile-based fashion accessories like scarves, clutches and tote bags. She also will be debuting kimono-style robes that incorporate her hand-crafted and designed textiles. Gigi Moon and Perilin are two unique local jewelry designers you also will also find on First Fridays at the Bauer, to list just a few other artists.

Culinary Delights & Entertainment: The Crossroads is home to many popular and trendy restaurants, lounges and entertainment venues. Grinders is always a hot

First Fridays in the Crossroads District

kcgoingplaces.com 23

Doughnut Lounge

RIVER MARKET A Foodie’s Paradise: The River Market community has so much to offer Kansas City—so much to experience! Since 1857, the City Market farmers market has been supplying urban residents with the best of local produce. A perennial favorite to new and regular customers alike, the farmers market is just the tip of the iceberg. Adventurous and diverse eateries are throughout the River Market area.

Taste of Brazil Market brings the flavor of South American cuisine (sample the pao de queijo for starters) to Kansas City, while Carollo’s Italian Market & Deli offers up truly authentic Italian food and goods (which make the BEST ingredients for a picnic in one of the city’s iconic parks).

Nearby, Harry’s Country Club is another establishment not to miss—from great food to traditional brews and local bands, Harry’s has it all.

Historic Treasures: For the antique enthusiast, River Market Antiques is 30,000 square feet of quality vintage. This antique mall is a favorite among locals and visitors—from the occasional collector to the serious.

24 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Another place where history comes to life in the River Market is at the Arabia Steamboat Museum. Since the paddleboat sank in the Missouri River in 1856 with all her cargo aboard, a moment in time has been preserved for generations to discover. Visit the museum to see what life was like in the mid-19th century through the stories the surviving objects tell.

WEST 39TH STREET Third Fridays: Just as the Crossroads has First Fridays, the West 39th Street neighborhood takes every third Friday of the month to celebrate its local flavor. Activities include art showcases, happy hours, food specials, live music and boutique sales.

Boutiques: Some of West 39th Street’s main attractions are its unique boutique shops. A couple of favorites are Retro Vixen (new, vintage-inspired women’s clothing and accessories for every age and every size) and Donna’s Dress Shop (expertly collected vintage and new women’s clothing and accoutrements).

Restaurants and Night Life: This district is also known for its one-of-a-kind restaurants. There are so many to choose from, you will have to keep returning to try them all. A few to start with are Fric & Frac, a favorite local hangout.

Come for the beers, stay for the food—especially on Taco Saturdays! THOMAS Restaurant is the perfect place for date night, a celebratory dinner or cocktails. On Thursday through Saturday evenings, pianist Vincent Cook adds the perfect amount of ambiance to the superb menu. Other popular dining selections on 39th include Jazz, d’Bronx, Aladdin Café, Q39, Room 39, KC Smoke Burgers and Anna’s Oven—and the list goes on!

Other notable Kansas City destination districts to explore: West Bottoms, Power & Light, East Bottoms, Downtown Kansas City and the Country Club Plaza. And beginning May 6, several of these districts will be linked when the RideKC Streetcar officially begins operations.

Kansas City truly is an extraordinary metropolis in which to live and explore!

Margaret Bristow is a lifelong KC resident who spends her spare time visiting favorite old haunts and discovering new ones. Photo credit: Margaret Bristow

Westport Cafe and Bar

Kate E. Burke (photo by Kate E. Burke, with permission) kcgoingplaces.com 25

weekend fun guide Third Thursday at the Nelson, photography by Lauren Frisch

Kansas City’s arts, antiques and dining districts roll out the red carpet with special monthly events on the first, second, third or final “day” of the month.

first weekend

• First Fridays in the Crossroads, starting at 5:00. Every month more than 10,000 residents and visitors head to the cultural arts district for free peeks at galleries and studios, delicious treats from food trucks and local restaurants, and entertainment from street performers and buskers showcasing their talent.

• First Friday Weekend in the West Bottoms, Fri.–Sun. The historic West Bottoms district is home to antiques and boutiques and on the first weekend of each month, the shops are open late.

third weekend

• Third Thursday at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 6:00–9:00. An evening designed with adults in mind, this event features live music, free programs, art activities, local artists and entertainment.

• Third Thursday in Martin City, 5:00-9:00. Shopping district is open for extended hours.

• Third Friday in Downtown Overland Park, 5:00–9:00.

During this event, enjoy cooking demos, specials, live entertainment and samples at local businesses.

• Third Friday Englewood Art Walk, 5:30–9:00. The Englewood District in Independence houses galleries, shops and restaurants. On third Fridays, enjoy live entertainment and specials.

• Third Fridays in West 39th Street Neighborhood, 5:00-9:00. Art showcases, happy hours, food specials, live entertainment and sales.

• Third Saturday Wine Walk on Delaware, 5:00–8:00 April through October. Delaware Street in the River Market is home to an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, hosting a wine tasting for those 21 and over each month.

fourth weekend

• Fourth Fridays in Downtown Lee’s Summit, 5:00–8:00

First Friday in the Crossroads Art District

second weekend

• Second Saturday Sprint Family Fun Days. Held in the Kansas City Power & Light District on the second Saturday of each month, May through October. The monthly festivals are all themed events with booths, activities, entertainers and fun for the entire family.

Admission is free, but there may be a fee for some activities and food purchases.

• Second Saturday in Weston. Shops are open late on the second Saturday of each month, and the Upstairs Tea Room performs a murder mystery dinner theater (reservations required).

26 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

March through October. Enjoy art, theater, author readings, music and special events monthly.

• Olathe Fourth Fridays, 5:00–7:00 spring through fall.

This event features live concerts, food trucks, freebies, family-friendly fun, giveaways and entertainment for all ages.

final weekend

• Final Fridays in Lawrence. Featuring hundreds of artists and performers in more than 30 locations, this free event is fun for everyone.

look for more weekend fun ideas at kcgoingplaces.com

Shows begin at 7PM JUNE

17 JUNE

JULY

15

3

Marc Broussard with Eric Lindell Presented by:

PARKS&REC Donations will be accepted for local charities. More information available at OlatheKS.org/ParksRec.

Kelley Hunt with Dan Bliss

Stagecoach Park • 6PM

JULY

9

Liverpool

Sam Bush 1205 E. Kansas City Rd.

Celebrate Olathe!

with Funk Syndicate & Sons Of Brasil

P L AY T I M E

P L AY T I M E

Paradise Park

25 ways to make the most of your warm days in kansas city– with a little help from kcparent.com KC Going Places is a product of Family Media Group’s family of magazines and it resides on KCParent.com. We have limited page count in the magazine, but unlimited space online—so you’ll find even more great ideas to enhance your time in Kansas City when you visit KCParent.com. Search for these great stories:

1. 50 Ideas Under $5 to Explore Kansas City 2. Complete Summer Festival Guide 3. Top Picks for Fun Every Month

4. Memorial Day Weekend Planner

5. Mother’s Day & Father’s Day Fun

6. Fireworks & 4th of July Guide

7. KC Water Fun Guide

8. Local Attractions and Show Reviews 9. Farmers Market Guide 10. Free Summer Movies 11. Beaches and Boating in Kansas City 12. Best Ice Cream in Kansas City 13. Outdoor Concert Guide 14. Kids Eat Free Guide

28 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

15. Calendar of Events 16. Berry Picking in Kansas City 17. Best Parks 18. Kansas City Camping Guide 19. Great Fishing Spots 20. Watch-It-Made Tours 21. Coupons for Local Attractions 22. Great Giveaways 23. Going Places—a virtual guide to all the attractions in Kansas City

24. Be sure to subscribe to the eNewsletter on KCParent.com for free ideas weekly.

25. And follow Kansas City Parent Magazine on Facebook for up-to-date info!

Legend: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 17 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Indoor Fun in KC 360 Gymnastics

431 N. Lindenwood Dr., Olathe, KS 913.782.3300 $ B3 www.KC360Gym.com Open play offered. Call for schedule.

Advanced Laser Tag

2026 E. Santa Fe St., Olathe, KS 913.254.9678 $ B4 www.AdvancedLaserTag.com New laser tag games every 10 minutes, a high-tech video arcade, prize counter, party room and observation deck!

523 N. 291 Hwy., Liberty, MO 816.994.2160 $ C2 http://amazingplayfuncenter.com/ Indoor play place with laser tag, laser maze, arcades and giant sky maze.

Apple Pie Painting

9525 Melrose Street, #3, OP, KS 816.809.2272 $$ B5 www.ApplePiePainting.com A painting studio for all ages.

Art Experience.us at the MOD Gallery

1809 McGee St., KC, MO 816.695.4670 $$ C3 www.artexperience.us Fun night out painting classes.

Blanc Palette

17 E. Kansas St., #100, Liberty, MO 816.674.6225 $$ C2 http://blancpalette.com/ A painting and wine party experience.

Blue Valley Recreation

6545 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.685.6000 $ B5 www.BlueValleyRec.org Play in the gymnastics area with trampoline, hoops, balls, parachute, etc.

 FEATURED LISTING Breakout KC See ad on pg. 67.

114 W. 3rd St., #101, KC, MO 816.945.2633 $$ C3 www.BreakoutKC.com Breakout Kansas City is an entertainment game in Downtown Kansas City’s River Market District. Your goal is simple: you have 60 minutes to breakout from a real life escape room.

Crack the codes. Use your gut. Solve the riddles. Find out if you have what it takes to break out in time!

Build-A-Bear Workshop

Oak Park Mall: 11465 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.307.0328 B3 Zona Rosa: 8640 N. Dixson Ave., KC, MO 816.587.6515 B2 Indep Center: 18813 E. 39th St. South, Indep, MO 816.795.5266 D3 T-Rex Café Build-A-Dino: 1847 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.334.8888 $$ A3 www.BuildABear.com Children create their own stuffed bears and other animal friends at this shop.

Ceramic Cafe

9425 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.383.0222 $ B5 www.CeramicCafeKC.com Paint your own pottery shop.

Chuck E. Cheese

10510 Metcalf Ln., OP, KS 913.648.4920 B4 18701 E. 39th St., Indep, MO 816.254.6300 D3 15225 W. 134th St., Olathe, KS 913.390.0815 A5 9196 N. Skyview Ave., KC, MO 816.505.0902 $ B1 www.ChuckECheese.com Pizza, arcade games and indoor amusement rides.

Clue Pursuit

3953 Broadway, KC, MO 913.982.1076 $$ C3 www.CluePursuitLive.com Clue Pursuit is proud to have been the first escape room in Missouri.

Coffee Playground Overland Park First Assembly of God

7700 W. 75th St., OP, KS 913.432.3281 FREE B4 www.OverlandParkMOPS.blogspot.com Coffee shop where parents can relax while kids play in the gym.

Cosmic Jump

12025 S. Strang Line Rd., Olathe, KS 913.397.7700 $ A5 www.CosmicJump.com Indoor trampoline park.

THIS IS YOUR FUN

Kansas City, MO

Cedar Fair Entertainment Company® ©2016 Cedar Fair, L.P. WF16-105

kcgoingplaces.com 29

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Amazing Play

PLAYTIME

P L AY T I M E

Each team of players will be able to choose one of our four uniquely themed rooms and will have exactly one hour to complete a mission or task giving you the key to escape.

Extreme Grand Prix Family Fun Center 6731 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 816.286.4156 $ C3 www.ExtremeGrandPrix.com Indoor kart racing with high performance European karts of 45 mph.

A Flip Zone 3411 NE Ralph Powell Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.2636 $ D4 www.AFlipZone.com Occasional open play on the 33-foot obstacle course, tumble track, trampoline and equipment.

Fun Run

Extreme Grand Prix

Dare to Dabble

1329 Swift Ave., North Kansas City, MO 816.287.1531 $$ C2 www.daretodabble.com A painting and creative arts studio.

Dave & Buster’s

The Legends at Village West: 1843 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.981.6815 $ A3 www.DaveAndBusters.com Arcade games, shuffleboard and billiards.

Debbie Howard’s Gym

655 N. Somerset Ter., Olathe, KS 913.829.3006 $ A5 www.DebbieHowardsGym.com Open gym time offered for parents to play with their children.

Escape Room

511 W. 4th St., KC, MO 816.656.5158 $$ C3 1st Floor Union Station 30 W. Pershing, KC, MO 816.656.5158 $$ C3 www.EscapeRoomKC.com A live escape game where you have 60 minutes to solve a mystery. It’s full of secrets, codes and puzzles.

The Exit Room

304 SW Market St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.434.5808 $$ D4 TheExitRoomKC.com

1919 Industrial Dr., Liberty, MO 816.781.0386 $ D1 www.FunRunKansasCity.com Inflatable obstacle course, dual lane slide and bounce houses offer active fun. Enjoy the large toddler area and the Children’s Imagination Village.

Got Art Gallery 18 SW 3rd St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.600.5932 $$ D4 http://gotartgallery.org Local gallery offers painting classes for all ages and skill levels.

Grapes & Paints 7175 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.314.2650 $$ B5 www.GrapesAndPaints.com A social BYOB painting studio which caters to all ages.

Gymboree Play & Music

Leawood: 10517 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.262.3339 $$ B5 Zona Rosa: 7360 NW 87th Ter., KC, MO 816.505.3344 $$ B2 www.GymboreeClasses.com Gymboree offers open play for members and educational classes for young children.

Hook Gallery

1409B Westport Rd., KC, MO 816.531.4665 $$ C3 www.HookGallery.com BYOB and they provide the rest: supplies, instruction and a one-of-a-kind masterpiece created by you.

I-49 Fun Center

17217 S. Outer Rd., Belton, MO 816.331.5867 $ C3 www.I49FunCenter.com Indoor Inflatable play facility and birthday party venue.

iFLY Kansas City

10975 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.305.4359 $$ B5 www.IFlyWorld.com Indoor skydiving facility allows you to feel the rush of flying in a fun, safe environment.

Integrity Gymnastics

7373 W. 107th St., OP, KS 913.766.8918 $ B3 www.IntegrityOP.com Open play is offered at this gymnasium.

Irene B. French Community Center Indoor Playground

5701 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS 913.322.5550 $ B3 www.Merriam.org Enjoy Step 2 climbers, Little Tykes riding toys and more.

Elite Gym

13600 W. 108th St., Lenexa, KS 913.469.5554 $ B4 www.EliteGymSwim.com Obstacle courses, tree houses, inflatables, zip line, trampoline and gym mats.

Escape Artist KC

408 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.472.6699 $$ C3 www.EscapeArtistKC.com Uncover clues, find items such as keys or hidden messages, solve riddles, unravel brainteasers, crack codes, which allow your group to solve the puzzle.

Dave & Buster’s 30 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

200 W. 74th St., KC, MO 816.363.1373 $ C4 www.KCClayGuild.org Make your own pottery.

Lenexa Community Center “Gym for Me” Program”

13420 Oak St., Shwn Msn, KS 913.477.7100 $ B4 www.ci.Lenexa.ks.us Preschool toys and activities keep little ones busy. Call for schedule.

Little Monkey Bizness

12219 Shwn. Msn. Pkwy., Shwn Msn, KS 913.631.7000 $ B3 ShawneeMission.MonkeyBizness.com Little Monkey Bizness is a full-service coffee house overlooking a nearly 4,000-square-foot play area for kids.

Main Event Independence

4600 S. Cochise Ct., Indep, MO 816.350.1000 $-$$ D3 www.MainEvent.com Bowling, billiards, laser tag, ropes obstacle course, video games, and more.

Matt Ross Community Center Indoor Playground

8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 Free B4 www.OPKansas.org Three-story “jungle” playground entertains with slides, tunnels and swings.

Mercury Gymnastics

10551 N. Ambassador Dr., KC, MO 816.880.9996 $ B1 www.MercuryGymnastics.com Mercury Gymnastics offers preschool gymnastics facility for open play. Call for a schedule.

My Gym

8532 W. 133rd St., OP, KS 913.685.9005 $ B5 www.My-Gym.com My Gym Children’s Fitness Center offers classes, parties and open playtime in the play rooms.

Paint, Glaze & Fire

12683 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.661.2529 $ B5 www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net Paint your own pottery, make your own mosaics or enjoy the coffeehouse.

 FEATURED LISTING Paradise Park See ad on pg. 32.

1021 NE Colbern Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.246.5224 $ D4 www.Paradise-Park.com The 35,000-sq.-ft. building is home to the Children’s Edutainment Center (CEdC), integrating children’s educational experiences into a fantasy of discovery play, exploration and fun! With a multi-level

foam factory, you can fire foam balls through our air-powered cannons, geysers and blasters. A 24-ft. rock climbing wall, go-karts, miniature golf, bumper cars and laser tag add to the fun. 

Parkside Coffeehouse at Cedar Ridge Christian Church

8839 Lackman Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.393.3000 Free B4 www.cedarridge.cc Coffee shop for parents and indoor play for tots! Gym, indoor playground equipment and ride-on toys.

Pinot’s Palette

5235 W. 116th Pl., Leawood, KS 913.451.7466 $$ B5 4165 N. Mulberry Dr., KC, MO 816.492.3772 $$ C2 6943 Tomahawk Rd., Prairie Village, KS 913.671.1837 $$ B3 721 Wakarusa Dr., Lawrence, KS 785.856.3254 $$ A3 www.PinotsPalette.com An upscale “paint and sip” studio where painters are taught to create their own works of art.

Potter’s Haven Art Studio

292 SW Blue Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.525.9323 $ D4 www.PottersHavenArtStudio.com Paint your own pottery shop.

Potter’s Obsession

13035 Holmes Rd., Suite B, KC, MO 816.941.2555 $ C5 www.PottersObsession.com A pottery and mosaic teaching studio.

Power Play

Shawnee: 13110 W. 62nd Ter., Shwn Msn, KS 913.268.4386 $ B3 North: 509 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO 816.268.4386 $ C1 www.PowerPlayKC.com Enjoy more than 80,000 square feet of rides, laser tag, whirly ball, arcade games, bowling, go-karts, a toddler area and cosmic golf.

Pump It Up

7230 W. Frontage Rd., Shwn Msn, KS 913.236.7867 $ B3 www.PumpItUpParty.com Have fun in gigantic, inflatable-filled arenas for open play. Private party rooms available as well.

Raytown International Raceway

6133 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 816.353.7568 $ C3 www.RaytownInternationalRaceway.com

Race slot cars on a 1/24th scale quarter mile drag strip, and a 155-ft. Blue King road course. Location sells and rents cars and controllers for the road course.

Painting PartyS tudio KAnSAS CiTy’S

Ladies Night | Birthdays | Corporate Events Call 913.669.0501 to Reserve Your Spot Today!

Why People Choose Thirsty Palette n

No painting experience needed

n

Fully stocked bar for flexible accommodations

n

Perfect for birthday parties for kids and adults

n

Fun and flexible for corporate team-building events

n

Ladies Night Out!!!

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KC Clay Guild

Jenny Ball, OWner 11958 Roe Ave. Overland Park, KS 66209 jenny@ThirstyPalette.com

913.669.0501 www.ThirstyPalette.com kcgoingplaces.com 31

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Sky Zone is the original indoor trampoline park, bringing unmatched, outof-this-world and high-flyin’ FUN.

Spring Hill Community Center

613 S. Race, Spring Hill, KS 913.592.3664 Free A5 www.SpringHillKS.com Visit this indoor playground with toys.

Sylvester Powell Community Center Indoor Playground

6200 Martway, Mission, KS 913.722.8200 $ B3 www.MissionKS.org Families enjoy inflatables, tricycles, gym mats and more. Call for schedule.

 FEATURED LISTING Thirsty Palette See ad on pg. 31.

Thirsty Palette

Shawnee Civic Centre Open Gym

13817 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.631.5200 $ B3 www.CityOfShawnee.org Enjoy climbing toys, toddler sports, ride-on toys, etc. Call for schedule.

Sky Zone

6495 Quivira Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.213.5900 $ A4 2801 NE McBaine Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.457.0068 $ D4 North Kansas City – Coming Soon www.skyzone.com/kansascity

32 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

11958 Roe Ave., OP, KS 913.669.0501 $$ B5 http://ThirstyPalette.com The Thirsty Palette is Leawood’s trendiest painting party hotspot. Sign up for any future party of a painting that you are interested in. That night, the artist of that painting will guide you and your classmates step by step, shape by shape, to create a nearly identical version of it—but with your own flair of course! 

Tick Tock Escape Games 6398 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.396.9144 $$ B5 It’s an adrenaline filled hour of fun where anyone can be the one who “gets it” and solves the next clue to save the day and escape the room.

Tipsy Red Fox 817 Jefferson, KC, MO 816.359.1015 $$ C3 http://TheTipsyRedFox.com Entertaining people as a B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Beverage) art and social studio.

Toddler Town Roger T. Sermon Community Center: 201 N. Dodgion Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7370 $ D3 www.ci.independence.mo.us Fall and winter indoor play center with educational fun for toddlers.

Touch of Fun 4809 W. 117th St., Leawood, KS 913.609.5057 $$ B4 Indoor play and special events for kids.

Trapped KC

618 SW 3rd St., Suite E, Lee’s Summit, MO 816.457.7410 $$ D4 www.TrappedKC.com Clues are hidden throughout the room that will need to be cracked and assembled to escape before the time’s up!

 FEATURED LISTING Urban Air Trampoline Park See ad on pg. 33.

14401 Metcalf, OP, KS 800.960.4778 $$ B3 www.UrbanAirOP.com Overland Park’s newest indoor trampoline park, with over 35,000 square feet of indoor fun complete with wallto-wall trampoline arenas, Warriors course, and an indoor playground for kids of all ages. Conveniently located at 143rd and Metcalf, it is the perfect venue to host kids’ birthday parties as well as church and corporate events. 

Walls of Clay

Walls of Clay Pottery Studio 16625 Midland Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.248.1117 $ A4 Paint your own pottery at this shop.

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Westport Roanoke Community Center

Midtown Play Place 3601 Roanoke Rd., KC, MO 816.784.5200 $ C3 http://kcparks.org/facility/westportroanoke-community-center/ Enjoy the indoor playground, blocks, gym mats and toys. Call for schedule.

Xtreme Gymnastics & Trampoline

725 NW Commerce, Lee’s Summit, MO 816.347.8008 $ D4 www.XGTKids.com Open play occasionally offered at this 18,000-square-foot fitness facility where children can leap and tumble.

Y.E.S! Kids Fitness

12 NE Skyline Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.246.0058 $ D4 http://YesKidsFitness.com Family nights, a fitwall, fitness classes and parents night out are offered.

Young Chef’s Academy

10082 Woodland Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.764.0077 $ B4 Cooking classes offered for kids.

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Outdoor Adventures Adventure Zip KC

12829 Loring Rd., Bonner Springs, KS 913.302.8881 $$ A3 www.AdventureZipKC.com A zip line adventure under trees and through trees to an awaiting 45-ft. tower.

Belton Grandview and KC Railroad

502 E. Walnut St., Belton, MO 816.331.0630 $ C5 www.BeltonRailroad.org Train rides will appeal to the entire family. Some trips include hot dog trains, ice cream rides and more.

KC Northern Railroad

6060 NW Waukomis Dr., KC, MO 816.746.5663 $ B2 www.KCNRR.com Three 16-inch gauge trains restored and operated by volunteers run on a half-mile track through tunnels that are sure to make your children smile.

KC Timber Challenge

12829 Loring Dr., Bonner Springs, KS 913.747.5053 $$ A3 www.KCTimberChallenge.com A one-of-a-kind natural 5K obstacle course.

Go Ape

7331 Oakwood Dr., KC, MO 800.971.8271 $$ C4 www.GoApe.com Course is made up of numerous rope ladders, 39 exciting crossings, two Tarzan swings and five zip lines.

Midland Railway

1515 W. High St., Baldwin City, KS 913.721.1211 $ A5 www.midlandrailway.org Enjoy an inexpensive family outing where you can experience the fun of riding the rails. Take a 20-mile round trip from Baldwin City via Norwood, KS, to Ottawa Junction, KS.

 FEATURED LISTING Worlds of Fun See ad on pg. 29.

4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 www.WorldsOfFun.com Your senses come alive as you enter the gate, the sights and sounds take over, and the little ones in your family take your hand. Breathtaking views from towering coasters, hair-raising thrill rides and a Planet Snoopy kids area that is the playground for new memories. Now enjoy two parks (Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun) for the price of one ticket! 

4:40 PM

SEND YOUR KIDS FLYING Open Jump • Ninja Warrior Course • Indoor Playground • Dodgeball • Parties + More

www.urbanairop.com

Urban Air Trampoline Park 14401 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS 66223 +1 (913) 730-8622 kcgoingplaces.com 33

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Hands-on at “Day on the River”

hands-on learning with nature “The mind cannot forget what the hands have learned.”

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~Jon Zahourek

his quote has become a favorite of mine and it applies well to enjoying nature. Truly, the best and most fun way to learn is to go and experience it first-hand.

Our many local nature centers supply an endless array of classes, workshops and events that get families literally in touch with nature.

Powell Gardens in Kingsville, MO, is a treat to visit and view amazing gardens, water features and their lake trail.

They also offer programs for kids, adults and families. When I was young, we attended many of their monthly Kids Club programs. It was there I first looked through a telescope.

Dad still says the best pizza he ever ate came from our herb class. Kids Club programs are for ages 6-12 and can be found at www.powellgardens.org/Kids_Club.

The Missouri Department of Conservation always has great programming at a number of locations throughout the city, for little to no cost. Their Discover Nature classes are noteworthy, as they build confidence in outdoor skills and knowledge. The fishing program is exceptional. A series of four classes walks the beginner through equipment, baiting, casting, basic fish identification and regulations. Attendees learn the howto’s and apply what they have learned when fishing.

All equipment and bait are provided. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs and James A. Reed Wildlife Area in Lee’s Summit offer these fishing courses. More 34 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

programs and classes are offered beyond the Discover Nature series for all ages. A complete listing is at mdc.mo.gov/regions/kansas-city/nature-you-newsletter.

The newsletter is published bimonthly.

There is no shortage of hands-on learning opportunities on the Kansas side of the city. Johnson County Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of classes at Ernie Miller Nature Center and Timber Ridge Adventure Center.

The complete list can be found at jcprd.com/activities/ and includes summer camp opportunities. Ernie Miller has regular classes for children and groups. If you have been curious about geocaching, which is basically a scavenger hunt using GPS, Johnson County Parks and Recreation is offering two family events this summer at Shawnee Mission Park. Families will be able to borrow a GPS unit and find the caches around the park. To see what Timber Ridge offers, attend their open house April 30 that will feature several outdoor activities including canoeing, kayaking, hiking and archery.

Several smaller nature centers and outdoor areas regularly offer classes too. A great way to introduce your family to them all is to grab a Passport to Adventure booklet at any participating site—including those listed here. Visit KCPassport.com for participating sites to complete the program with your family.

Heather Shields is a Kansas City native, nature buff and science teacher.

Legend: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 17 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Animal Attractions American Royal Museum

1701 American Royal Ct., KC, MO 816.221.9800 $ C3 www.AmericanRoyal.com Museum is dedicated to agriculture, show animals and petting zoo.

Burroughs Audubon Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary

7300 SW West Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.795.8177 Free D4 www.Burroughs.org

A library and bird watching center complete with guides to identify local birds, binoculars and great viewing areas.

 FEATURED LISTING Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary and Educational Center See ad on pg. 37.

3783 Hwy. K68, Louisburg, KS 913.837.5515 $ B5 www.SaveOurSiberians.org A preserve for tigers and a refuge for big cats that are abandoned, neglected or whose owners are unable to care for them. On Saturday evenings (summer – autumn) watch as the big cats are fed by trained staff. Special events and tours are offered through the year. 

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

13800 Switzer, OP, KS 913.897.2360 Free/$ B5 www.OPKansas.org 12-acre park with farm animals, a dairy barn, a fishing pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, pony rides and more.

Green Dirt Farm

19915 Mount Bethel Rd., Weston, MO 816.386.2156 Free A1 www.GreenDirtFarm.com Tour the farm and learn about grassfed lambs, sheep, milk and cheeses.

 FEATURED LISTING Kansas City Zoo See ad on pg. 80.

6800 Zoo Dr., KC, MO 816.595.1234 $ C4 www.KansasCityZoo.org Visitors love the Polar Bear Passage, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, world-class African exhibit, venturing to Australia and the Tropics exhibit. This summer, enjoy koalas in a new state-of-theart exhibit! Live animal feedings and shows are offered daily and watching elephants paint, sea lion training, and the bird show are a few favorites.

Visit the zoo website for great events all year long. 

Native Hoofed Animal Enclosure

Fleming Park: US 40 & Woods Chapel Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.503.4800 Free D4 www.JacksonGov.org View the 110-acre enclosure where elk, buffalo and deer roam freely.

Screamin’ Oaks Farm

18171 W. 198th St., Tonganoxie, KS 913.845.2775 $ A3 http://screaminoaksfarm.blogspot.com/ Tours are offered of this working farm where children can learn about animals and farming firsthand.

Sea Life Kansas City

2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.4386 $$ C3 www.sealifeus.com Discover over 5,000 sea creatures in 30 incredible displays at Kansas City’s aquarium! Come nose to nose with sharks in the underwater tunnel.

Shatto Dairy Farm 9406 N. Hwy. 33, Osborn, MO 816.930.3862 $ D1 www.ShattoMilk.com Tour the dairy farm and watch milk processing and bottling firsthand.

Gardens Beanstalk Children’s Garden

6917 Kensington, KC, MO 816.931.3877 $ C4 www.KCCG.org Children’s garden features educational programs on gardening and nutrition.

 FEATURED LISTING Kauffman Memorial Gardens See ad on pg. 36.

4800 Rockhill Rd., KC, MO 816.932.1200 Free C3 www.PowellGardens.org This 2-acre garden is part of the Kauffman Legacy Park in the heart of Kansas City and maintained by Powell Gardens. The Kauffman

#Memories #FamilyTime #KansasCityKS

Kansas City Kansas Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc.

800.264.1563 | VisitKansasCityKS.com kcgoingplaces.com 35

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Overland Park Arboretum 8909 W. 179th St., OP, KS 913.685.3604 Free - $ B5 www.OPKansas.org Savor beautiful gardens, including a Monet garden and a children’s garden.  FEATURED LISTING Powell Gardens See ad on pg. 36.

Burr Oak Woods Nature Center Memorial Garden is a serene and tranquil garden enclosed by beautiful limestone walls. Its brick paths lead to many places to sit and relax. The garden showcases five designs beginning with a beautiful entrance allee of Peking tree lilacs shading billowing blue Endless Summer Hydrangeas and other seasonal flowers. 

Booms & Blooms Festival July 2

Festival of Butterflies August 5-7 and 12-14

Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden

51st St. & Wornall Rd., KC, MO 816.513.7500 Free C3 www.KCMO.org KC’s rose garden features hundreds of roses with a fountain.

Linda Hall Library Urban Arboretum

5109 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.926.8753 Free C3 www.LindaHall.org Urban garden on UMKC’s campus features a butterfly garden.

1609 NW US Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO 816.697.2600 $ D5 www.PowellGardens.org Within the gardens, explore the Heartland Harvest Garden, the nation’s largest “edible” landscape, the Island Garden and Waterfall Garden. Powell Gardens also hosts annual festivals including Booms & Blooms: A patriotic celebration with a dazzling daylily display, inspiring music by the Lee’s Summit Symphony and a dramatic fireworks display over the dark country sky, and Festival of Butterflies: An interactive experience with hundreds of tropical butterflies and moths flying freely in our temporary indoor exhibit. 

Cultivate discovery and adventure in every season at Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s botanical garden !

TM

May 21-October 3

Discover lifelike dinosaurs large and small and the plants of our distant past.

GLOW Jack-O-Lantern Festival October 14 and 15

Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s botanical gardenTM 30 miles east of KC on Highway 50 Insta

36 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

816.697.2600 | powellgardens.org

Nature Centers Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center

4750 Troost Ave., KC, MO 816.759.7300 Free C3 www.MDC.mo.gov Explore the nature center, hiking trail, special programs and more.

Burr Oak Woods Nature Center

1401 NW Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.3766 Free D3 www.MDC.mo.gov Features hands-on exhibits, an aquarium, animals and nature trails.

Cave Spring Historic Site & Nature Center

8701 E. Gregory Blvd., KC, MO 816.547.9679 Free C4 www.CaveSpring.org Visit the nature center and hiking trails.

Ernie Miller Nature Center

909 N. Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS 913.764.7759 Free A5 www.ErnieMiller.com The nature center features animals native to Kansas, hiking trails and educational programs.

F. L. Schlagle Library

4051 West Dr., KC, KS 913.299.2384 Free A3 www.KCKPL.org Nature library offers trails, nature art gallery, bird watching and classes.

George Owens Nature Park

1601 S. Speck Rd., Indep, MO 816.325.7115 Free D3 www.GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Enjoy programs for children, fishing dock and trails.

John Barkley Visitor Center

Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary

407 N. Lafrenz Rd., Liberty, MO 816.781.8598 Free D1 www.NatureSanctuary.com Provides engaging hands-on environmental and natural science education.

Parkville Nature Sanctuary

12th St. & Hwy. 9, Parkville, MO 816.741.7676 Free B2 www.ParkvilleNatureSanctuary.net Explore the nature sanctuary and hiking trails.

Prairie Oak Nature Center

14701 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.681.0902 Free B5 www.Leawood.org/parks The nature center features hands-on activities and several live animals.

Prairie Park Nature Center

2730 Harper St., Lawrence, KS 785.832.7980 Free A3 www.lawrenceks.org/lprd/ppnc Investigate animal exhibits including reptiles, birds and mammals.

7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.888.4713 Free A4 www.JCPRD.com Local and national parks exhibits, fishing and trails are available to visitors.

Kemper Outdoor Education Center

8201 Jasper Bell, Blue Springs, MO 816.229.8980 Free D4 www.JacksonGov.org See reptile displays, rock and fossil exhibits and a natural resource library.

Lakeside Nature Center

4701 E. Gregory Blvd., KC, MO 816.513.8960 Free C4 www.LakesideNatureCenter.org An incredible place to enjoy learning about local native wildlife.

Loose Park Rose Garden

An Educational Experience for All Ages!

Cedar Cove is a non-profit, educational sanctuary dedicated to the care & preservation of large cats and other endangered species while educating the public on their behavior and importance, the threats they face in captivity as well as the wild, and the impending danger of extinction.

Public Feedings Every Saturday!

Hours:

Summer (Apr - Oct) Sat: 10am - 5pm* Sun: 10am - 3pm

Winter (Nov- Mar) Sat: 11am - 3pm* Sun: 11am - 3pm

*Feeding times on Saturday: Summer: 4 p.m. / Winter: 2 p.m.

Weekday tours are available by appointment.

Admission: Kalyana

Age: 24 months Species: p. tigris

Adults: $8.00 Kids 4-12 & Seniors: $6.00 Kids 3 and under are free!

Location:

3783 K-68 Hwy, Louisburg, KS 66053

Phone:

(913) 837-5515 or (816) 739-0363

(see website for map & directions)

Kimar

Age: 10 years Species: p. tigris

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lanes, trains and automobiles are fun and exciting reminders for young and old alike that life is not just about the destination but the journey.

Here in Kansas City, you’ll find more ways to get from point A to B than you could imagine, from stagecoach to streetcar, carriage to helicopter, trolley to train ride. Don’t believe me? Find out for yourself!

carriages If you thought carriage rides were only reserved for fairy princesses or British royalty, think again! Both KC Carriages and Surrey’s on the Plaza provide elegant horse-drawn carriage rides within the Country Club Plaza district, fitting for any guest of any age. Visitors can take in exquisite art and beautiful Spanish architecture, all from a unique vantage point that’s easy on the hoofers (let the horses do the trotting while you simply sit back and enjoy the ride!).

Carriage rides are customizable and can accommodate an exclusive, romantic ride for two or a large family affair. Guests can expect their journey to last roughly 20-30 minutes. Reservations are recommended, and remember to check the weekly forecast first. Safety comes first, and in the event of excessive heat or inclement weather, operation will halt accordingly.

38 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

helicopters Up, up and away! The Kansas City skyline takes on a life of its own when viewed from above, and KC Copters takes the cake in providing a safe, enjoyable way to do just that. Emmy award-winning news reporter and helicopter pilot Johnny Rowlands has amassed an impressive 25,000+ flight hours in helicopters and airplanes and offers guests premier heli-adventure tours ranging from a sports fan tour that overviews KC landmark stadiums to the Plaza Pizzazz route that showcases Loose Mansion and Ward Parkway (plus customizable tours that can be tailored to suit the desires of each individual guest!). With weekday departures from Johnson County Executive Airport to downtown weekend departures, there’s something for everyone. KC Copters provides add-on services to commemorate the event, such as flight wings, in-flight cockpit video and even romantic touches such as roses and champagne!

streetcars Prepare to board the newest form of public transit in Kansas City, slated to open spring of 2016: the KC Streetcar.

With a fleet of four electric fixed-rail streetcars running a 2.2-mile route that includes downtown KC, Union Station/

Crown Center and the City Market, patrons can travel throughout the heart of the city with ease. And best of all, it’s free! With more than 16 stops, KC streetcars provide access to many popular metropolitan locations, all while offering free wi-fi (and the middle car provides accessibility for bikes, wheelchairs and strollers).

trolleys Though now considered a novelty, trolleys were once the primary mode of urban transportation at the turn of the 20th century. Three local trolley services boast a nostalgic air while providing a vibrant link to our community’s fascinating past. Departing from Union Station, KC Fun Tours provides guided 75-minute tours to inform and educate tourists and local enthusiasts alike about Kansas City’s rich history. Covering 17 famous landmarks, the tour shows visitors all the city has to offer from the comfort of an air-conditioned cab complete with brass rails and a bell. In historic Independence, MO, the Truman Trolley ventures along a course that includes Vaile Mansion, Mormon heritage sites and the National Frontier Trails Museum. Visitors can hop a ride outside of Clinton’s Soda Fountain, a place famous for its sodas and old-fashioned phosphates, as well as for the trolley’s namesake, President Harry S. Truman, who as a boy worked there and made them! Guests 6 years old and up can ride the trolley indefinitely throughout the day for a mere dollar (guests under 6 are free) and circle around some of Independence’s most iconic landmarks.

In Leavenworth, two 30-seat trolleys, endearingly named Trolley Tyme 2 and 3, take visitors on hour-long tours of the First City of Kansas. Weekly departures begin April 16 at the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, yet another Leavenworth attraction worth visiting!

for both personal travel and the transport of consumer goods. Train lovers can hop aboard miniature and specialty trains at the National Agricultural Center & Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs, KS, or the KC Zoo, Worlds of Fun and KC Northern Railroad (all three within Kansas City, MO). Meanwhile, the Belton, Grandview and Kansas City Railroad and the Midland Railway operate fleets of excursion lines throughout Kansas’ and Missouri’s historic railway systems. Enjoy a five-course dinner aboard the 1940s Kansas Belle Dinner Train. And don’t forget, Amtrak offers rides from Union Station to Independence, MO, for only $8!

wagon rides Yee haw! Get ready for a rip roarin’, rootin’ tootin’ ride perfect for all the cowboys in your crew! Mahaffie Farmstead in Olathe and Pioneer Trails Adventures in Independence offer stagecoach rides that are both educational and entertaining. Mahaffie’s stagecoach rides encircle the farmstead and complement monthly special events, such as blacksmith and cookstove demonstrations. Pioneer Trails Adventures’ owner Ralph Goldsmith’s desire to provide an authentic experience ultimately led him to hand-making covered wagons himself. Taking note that mules were the animal of choice for most westward expeditions during the mid-1800s, Pioneer Trails Adventures exclusively hitches teams of mules to their wagons to ensure guests enjoy a bona fide cowboy adventure. Multiple tour options range from 15 to 95 minutes, and groups of 15 or more can reserve a chuck wagon complete with dinner entertainment provided by Pick & Hammer, a dulcimer and guitar duo!

Trains are perhaps the most beloved mode of transportation of all time. A symbol of great ingenuity and strength, both diesels and steamies still hold a valuable place

Freelance writer Lauren Greenlee is mom to three young train-loving fanatics. She has read The Little Engine That Could roughly 3,600 times throughout her parenting career (a conservative estimate) and surprised her brood with two visits to the Day Out with Thomas event at Midland Railway.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Rides

KC Streetcar

trains

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WINE TOUR The popularity of locally harvested wines expands every

year, and both Kansas and Missouri are home to dozens of vineyards and wineries. Many of these wineries are within an hour’s drive of Kansas City, making them a great day trip for tasting the best of the local harvest.

Downtown Kansas City Amigoni Urban Winery 1505 Genessee St., Ste. 100, Kansas City, MO 913.890.3289, www.Winery.Amigoni.com Tasting Room Hours: Tue.-Thu. & Sat., 11:00-6:00; Fri., 11:00-7:00; Sun., Noon-5:00.

The Amigoni family makes award-winning wines from fruit grown in their vineyards in Centerview, MO. Their urban tasting room is located near Kemper Arena, making it a perfect stop on the way to the American Royal or after a weekend of shopping in the West Bottoms.

North Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery 16905 Jowler Creek Rd., Platte City, MO 816.858.5582, www.JowlerCreek.com Tasting Room Hours: Wed.-Sun., 11:00-5:00; free wine tastings.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Live concerts, Annual Grape Stomp in September, wine tours, craft classes and holiday events are all listed on their website.

This winery uses green technologies such as solar power to make wine on the 6-acre sustainable vineyard.

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Pirtle Winery 502 Spring St., Weston, MO 816.640.5728, www.PirtleWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10:00-6:00; Sat., 10:00-7:00; Sun., 11:00-6:00. Winter hours (Jan.-Feb.): Sun.-Thu., 11:00-5:00; Fri. & Sat., 11:00-6:00.

This family-owned and -operated winery has been serving award-winning wines since 1978. The scenic Weston location is especially popular in the fall. For lunch, enjoy the Vineyards, a four-star restaurant located right next door.

Riverwood Winery 22200 N. 45 Hwy., Rushville, MO 816.579.9797, www.RiverwoodWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Wed.-Sat., 11:00-5:00; Sun., Noon-5:00; closed major holidays.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Live concerts, yoga classes and more.

Riverwood produces wines using grapes from their vineyards, as well as grapes and fruits from other local farms. The beautiful vineyards offer great views to enjoy during a picnic and tasting.

Weston Wine Company 519 Main St., Weston, MO 816.935.9481, www.WestonWineCompany.com Tasting Room Hours: Sun., Noon-5:00; Wed. & Thu., 11:00-6:00; Fri. & Sat., 11:00-7:00; closed Mon. & Tue. Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Pairing classes, festivals and book-themed events.

You’ll find much to enjoy at this Weston location that serves delicious local wines at a rural winery.

South AUBREY VINEYARDS 16350 Kenneth, Overland Park, KS 913.909.2926, www.AubreyVineyards.com Tasting Room Hours: Mon. & Fri., 11:00-7:00; Sat., 11:-6:00; Sun., 12:00-5:00.

Located in southern Johnson County, this is one of the newest wineries on the scene crafting local wines..

Middle Creek Winery 4353 W. 351st St., Louisburg, KS 913.377.4689, www.MiddleCreekWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Sat., Noon-6:00; Sun., 11:00-6:00; free tastings.

Opened in 2010 and selling handcrafted Kansas wines out of a repurposed horse barn, this scenic winery is near Louisburg Cider Mill and Powell Observatory.

NightHawk Winery 16381 W. 343rd St., Paola, KS 913.849.3415, www.NightHawkWines.com Tasting Room Hours: Fri. & Sat., 11:00-5:00; Sun., Noon-5:00 (spring-fall).

This rural winery specializes in artisanal, locally produced wines.

Somerset Ridge Vineyard and Winery 29725 Somerset Rd., Paola, KS 913.294.9646, www.SomeresetRidge.com Tasting Room Hours: Wed.-Sat., 11:00-5:00; Sun., Noon-5:00.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Live concerts and classes offered.

This family-owned artisanal winery uses locally grown grapes.

White Wind Farms 21045 K-68 Hwy., Paola, KS 913.557.5700, www.WhiteWindWines.com Visit local liquor stores to taste these wines (info on their website). Open since 2000, White Wind Farms produces four Kansas wines.

East Albonée Country Inn & Winery 2200 S. Crenshaw, Independence, MO 816.220.2820, www.AlboneeCountryInn.com Tasting Room Hours: Sat. & Sun., 11:00-5:00.

A family-owned winery nestled on a hillside in historic Independence overlooking the Little Blue Valley.

Arcadian Moon Vineyards & Winery 19203 Hazel Dell Rd., Higginsville, MO 816.633.2150, www.ArcadianMoon.com Tasting Room Hours: Sun.-Thu., 11:00-7:00; Fri. & Sat., 11:00-10:00.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Live concerts.

This rustic winery is beautifully situated among four lakes on 75 acres, and all of their wines are made on the estate. For lunch, enjoy one of the delicious wood-fired pizzas.

Baltimore Bend Vineyard 27150 Hwy. 24, Waverly, MO 660.493.0258, www.BaltimoreBend.com Tasting Room Hours: Jan. 2-March 31: Wed.-Sat., 11:00-6:00; Sun., 1:00-6:00. April 1-Dec. 31: Mon.-Sat., 11:00-6:00; Sun., 1:006:00. $5/eight samples or $1/sample for fewer than eight.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Live concerts.

This scenic winery creates a variety of wines from six grape varieties grown in their vineyards.

Belvoir Winery 1325 Odd Fellows Rd., Liberty, MO 816.200.1811, www.BelvoirWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Sun., Noon-6:00; Mon.-Wed., 11:00-4:00; Thu.-Sat., 11:00-8:00.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Murder mystery dinners and paranormal investigations.

The winery is housed in a building originally constructed as a children’s home in 1900.

The winery now hosts events on the property and serves locally produced wines.

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Fahrmeier Family Vineyards

VanTill Family Farm Winery

9364 Mitchell Trl., Lexington, MO 816.633.2150, www.FahrmeierFamilyVineyards.com Tasting Room Hours: Thu., 1:00-5:00; Fri. & Sat., 10:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.; Sun., 1:00-5:00.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Festivals and concerts.

13986 State Hwy. C, Rayville, MO 816.776.2720, www.VanTillFarms.com Tasting Room Hours: Tue.-Thu., 11:00-5:00; Fri. & Sat., 11:00-8:00 (appointment only during months of January and February).

In 2008, the Fahrmeier family, dedicated to sustainable agriculture, expanded their farm to include vineyards. The converted barn is now the tasting room for the winery.

Lexington is a great day trip from Kansas City, with historic sites and attractions to enjoy.

La Bella Winery 11644 Flournoy School Rd., Wellington, MO 816.240.2404, www.LaBellaWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Sat., Noon-6:00; closed Mon.-Thu. Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Dinner theater, concerts and festivals.

Taste a variety of red, white, blush and fruit wines ranging from dry to sweet. Enjoy the tasting room and perhaps the patio overlooking the surrounding lake and vineyards.

Odessa Country Winery 2466 McNeel Rd., Odessa, MO 816.633.7843, www.OdessaCountryWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Sat. & Sun., Noon-6:00.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Concerts, wine pairing meals and scavenger hunts.

The winery is nestled in a vineyard with a spectacular view and a small pond and pavilion for picnics.

Stonehaus Farms Winery 24607 NE Colbern Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.554.8800, www.StonehausFarms.com Tasting Room Hours: Jan.-March: Sat. & Sun., Noon-6:00. April-Dec.: Wed. & Fri., Noon6:00; Thu., Noon-8:00; Sat. & Sun., Noon-6:00.

Founded in 1996, Stonehaus Farms Winery makes local wines in the heart of Lee’s Summit.

Terre Beau Vineyard and Winery 100 S. Lynn Rd., Dover, MO 660.259.3010, www.TerreBeauWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Fri.-Sun., 11:00-6:00.

Terre Beau Winery now occupies a chapel built in 1858 for pioneers and frontiersmen exploring the West.

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This rural winery offers beautiful views of the vineyards. Enjoy a wine tasting and Patio Pavilion pizza baked in a wood-fired oven while you watch on Fridays and Saturdays.

West Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery 18807 158th St., Basehor, KS 913.724.9463, www.HolyfieldWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10:00-6:00; Sat., 9:30-6:00; Sun., Noon-6:00; free tastings.

Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Murder mystery dinners, grape picking, live concerts, cooking classes and more.

Award-winning locally grown wines are sold at this rural winery.

Prairie Fire Winery 20250 Hudson Ranch Rd., Paxico, KS 785.636.5533, www.PrairieFireWinery.com Tasting Room Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10:00-5:00; Sun., Noon-5:00.

Located in the beautiful Flint Hills and surrounded by breathtaking beauty, Prairie Fire Winery produces award-winning Kansas wines from Kansas-grown grapes, including the first and only methode champenoise sparkling wine in Kansas.

Stone Pillar Vineyard & Winery 11000 S. Woodland St., Olathe, KS 913.839.2185, www.StonePillarVineyard.com Tasting Room Hours: Wed.-Sun., Noon-6:00; closed Mon. & Tue. Events You’ll Find on Their Calendar: Grape Stomp & Harvest in the fall, live concerts, wine dinners and more.

The winery, opened in 2010, specializes in hand-picked Kansas wines.

Wyldewood Cellars Tasting Room Multiple locations, including 32633 Grapevine Rd., Paxico, KS 785.636.8466, www.WyldewoodCellars.com Tasting Room Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10:00-6:00; Sun., 2:00-5:00.

Wyldewood Cellars Winery, the largest and most awarded winery in Kansas, developed a world-class wine made from elderberries.

They’ve broadened their offerings to more than 40 wines made from fruits, berries and some incredible grape varieties.

What’s Cookin’ Down Under Eat at more than 80 restaurants in one evening! Join us in black tie attire for a party down under.

Enjoy savory dishes from these fine restaurants, live music and more!

75th Street Brewery 801 Fish 810 Zone Amigoni Urban Winery BRGR Kitchen + Bar

Coco Bolo’s Wood Fired Grill & Cantina

Lakeview Village Les Bourgeois Vineyards

Cosentino’s Catering

Lew’s

Cooper’s Hawk

Louisburg Cider Mill

Edible Arrangements

Spectators at the Sheraton Crown Center Stroud’s Sunset Grill Sweet Tomatoes Restaurant

El Porton Café

Magnolia’s Modern Southern Cuisine

Espirito Do Sul

MeMa’s Old-Fashioned Bakery

T-Rex Café

Belfonte Ice Cream & Dairy Foods Co.

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Murray’s Tables & Tap

Ted’s Cafe Escondido

Gates Bar-B-Q

Nick & Jakes

Bizz & Weezy

Garozzo’s

Noodles & Company

Teocali Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

blanc burgers + bottles

North

Brancato’s Catering

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant

Brasserie at the Westin Crown Center

Hiland Dairy Co.

Baked In Kansas City Barley’s Brewhaus

Carmen’s Café Carmen’s (Food Truck) Charlie Hooper’s Chuy’s Claridge Court Cleaver & Cork

O’Dowd’s Little Dublin

Gram & Dun

O’Neill’s Restaurant & Bar Pinstripes

Hilton Kansas City Airport / Asado

Pita Blu RA Sushi

Hy-Vee Catering Isle of Capri / Calypso’s Buffet Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen

República St. James Winery

Jon Russell’s BBQ of Kansas City

Scratch Office Catering & Bakery

Kaldi’s Coffee The Kansas City Steak Company Kingswood Senior Living

Relish

Sheridan’s Frozen Custard Sheridan’s Unforked

Taco Republic

The Blue Moose Bar & Grill The Blue Moose Truck The Funnel Cake Truck The Melting Pot The Roasterie Café The Well Bar – Grill & Rooftop The Zebra Room at the Aladdin Hotel Urban Table Waffle House Walker’s Food Products Co. Waldo Pizza Zocalo

The 27th annual Jazzoo | June 3, 2016

Get Your Jazzoo Tickets Today!

Tickets on sale now at JazzooKC.org

kid AND parent approved

Restaurants in KC

M

y husband and I always joke that for us, a vacation is 50 percent about the destination and 50 percent about the food. In reality, that’s pretty close to the truth. When taking a trip, much of the fun comes from exploring local establishments and trying new dining spots.

Kansas City has a wealth of great restaurants, and we also have many places that cater specifically to families (see sidebar). For those of you seeking out a place to take the kids that both they and the adults will enjoy, here are some local restaurants to sample while visiting our fair city.

44 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant

Blanc Burgers + Bottles

the adults will as well. They offer a nice variety of wine and beer to complement your meal. What I love about Spin! is the fact that they use fresh ingredients and that the homemade crust is crispy and tasty! In addition, the salads are far beyond your typical pizza place salad.

Make sure you save room for dessert.

Each visit I make to Spin! must always end with a scoop of their all-natural gelato. In fact, it’s worth the trip just for the gelato!

10583 Mission Rd. Leawood, KS 66206 913.381.4500 www.BlancBurgers.com Every single time my sister is in town to visit, we take her to Blanc. The variety and the quality of the burgers are what make it stand out. And as much as I love a good beef burger, I find myself ordering the lentil burger. Every. Single. Time. Actually, what’s nice is we all order a different burger and then we try bites of each others’.

Thanks to this system, I think I’ve tried each and every burger—and love them all! The fries come in a mini shopping cart, which my girls think is so fun! In addition, they have an extensive bar for the grownups and Izze soda in bottles for the kids (a special treat in the Sarver home). Weekend evenings can be busy; plan ahead with a reservation.

Chez Elle 1713 Summit St. Kansas City, MO 64108 816.471.2616 www.ChezElleKC.com My girls were introduced to crepes in St. Louis years ago and they’ve been hooked

Chez Elle

Stroud’s

ever since. (Side note: if you are in St. Louis during the fall, visit City Coffeehouse and Creperie for the pumpkin crepe. It’s ah-maz-ing!) We were thrilled to have a crepe restaurant open here in KC! Chez Elle hits the savory and sweet side, along with offering soups and salads if crepes aren’t the thing for someone in your party.

And while I tend to be a morning/brunch crepe eater and would suggest one of the breakfast crepes, you can’t go wrong with the others.

Multiple locations www.StroudsRestaurant.com

Spin! Pizza Multiple Locations www.SpinPizza.com Pizza is a staple in many kids’ diets. Not only will the kids enjoy a pie at Spin!, but

Some of the best fried chicken you will eat! Nothing, and I mean nothing, beats homemade fried chicken. It is, however, a complete pain to make. Stroud’s serves the ultimate comfort food: fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and more. Your entire group will leave this dining experience very, very full. If fried chicken isn’t your thing, they have plenty of other options. In addition, you’ll receive some of Stroud’s famous cinnamon rolls.

If you have leftovers (and you probably will) and access to a stove and a few ingredients, use the leftover cinnamon rolls to make French toast for breakfast the next morning. You won’t be sorry.

You’ll find many kid chains in Kansas City that you may very well have in your hometown. However, Kansas City is home to some original and uniquely kid-centric restaurants.

T-Rex Café

Crayola Café

Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant

The Legends at Village West 1847 Village West Pkwy.

Kansas City, KS 66111 913.334.8888 www.TRexCafe.com

Inside Crown Center 2500 Grand Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64108 www.CrayolaCafe.com

Three locations www.FritzsKC.com

Dine with the dinosaurs! Large, animatronic dinos fill this restaurant, where you’ll experience a meteor shower during your meal. Large gift shop attached to restaurant with a Build-A-Dino. Note that younger kids may be scared by the dinosaurs and loud noises.

Nearby: Kansas Speedway, Children’s Mercy Park (home of Sporting KC), Schiltterbahn Waterpark, T-Bones

A brightly decorated restaurant with a kid focused menu. Of course, plenty of crayons are on hand to keep you busy while you wait, and drinks are served in plastic crayon cups that make for fun souvenirs.

After your meal, visit the Crayola Store next door.

Nearby: The Coterie Theater, Union Station & Science City, Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life Aquarium

Mainly a burger joint, but what sets this eatery apart from your typical burger place is that your food is delivered by a model train. Kids are mesmerized by the trains circling above with food. They also will love ordering the food by phone from your table.

Margaret Sarver writes from her home in Lenexa. Her two favorite meals while on vacation have been a grilled cheese at Melt in Cleveland and a nice pasta dinner out at Spiaggia in Chicago. kcgoingplaces.com 45

extraordinary accommodations Looking for unique overnight adventures for you and your family? Whether you are out-of-town visitors or residents of the Kansas City area, you will find numerous opportunities for exciting getaways right here in our city. Check out some of these places to stay for a night or all weekend!

Kansas City Zoo The zoo offers adventure-filled overnights for families, as well as for Scouts and other groups. Regular offerings include Penguin Pole-ooza, Polar Bear PJ Party and Nocturnal Overnights, with special engagements such as Halloween Nocturnal Overnights and Geocache Overnights throughout the year. Sleepovers include a guided tour, sleeping in the animal exhibits, activities, animal encounters and a continental breakfast. Sleeping in close to animals will provide thrills and lifelong memories for family members of all ages.

6800 Zoo Dr. Kansas City, MO 64132 www.KansasCityZoo.org

Great Wolf Lodge This resort features dozens of attractions, all in one location. The hotel offers suites of various sizes and includes passes to the indoor waterpark, featuring slides, a lazy river, treehouse and more. Family-friendly

Watkins Mill State Park

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Great Wolf Lodge

activities such as an arcade, kid spa, mini golf and story time add to the enjoyment of an overnight or weekend getaway. Bonus: The resort is located near the Legends Outlets, Kansas Speedway, Community America Ballpark (home of the T-Bones baseball team) and Children’s Mercy Park (home of Sporting KC soccer team).

10401 Cabela Dr. Kansas City, KS 66111 www.GreatWolf.com/Kansas-City

for those wanting to connect with nature. With a 100acre lake, paved bike path, picnic spots and plenty of campsites on which to pitch a tent, the park offers families activities for just a night or a whole weekend. Next to the campground is Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, which includes a home and woolen mill preserved to show visitors what life was like in the 1870s.

26600 Park Rd. N. Lawson, MO 64062 www.MOStateParks.com/Park/Watkins-Mill-State-Park

Westin Crown Center Want to take in all that downtown Kansas City has to offer? Stay at the Westin Crown Center and you will be within walking distance of many family-friendly destinations: Crown Center, Union Station, Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland Discovery Center, Hallmark Visitors Center, National World War I Museum, Kaleidoscope and the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank. Crown Center has numerous shops, restaurants and theaters that can be accessed from within the hotel. With a variety of rooms available, families can sleep in comfort after a full day of exploring a vibrant part of Kansas City.

1 E. Pershing Rd. Kansas City, MO 64108 www.WestinCrownCenterKansasCity.com

Adam’s Mark Hotel/CoCo Key Water Resort Families who wish to experience the thrills of a waterpark without worrying about sunburn, rain or too-cool temps can check out CoCo Key. At a constant 84 degrees, the waterpark is the perfect environment yearround. With 40-foot slides, water cannons and an interactive play island, the park offers a little something for everyone. Rent a poolside cabana, munch on pizza from Gators Grab and Go inside the resort, then dry off at Key Quest Arcade. After a full day of playing, guests can stay the night at the Adam’s Mark Hotel, attached to the waterpark.

Weston Bend State Park If your family enjoys the great outdoors mixed with some of the amenities of a small town, camping at Weston Bend State Park might be the right fit for you. Located northwest of downtown Kansas City, the park features a campground, hiking and biking trails with a view of the Missouri River, a scenic overlook and more. Spend a few hours in Weston and you will fall for its small-town charm. Children love the Red Barn Farm and Green Dirt Farm, and downtown Weston has some fantastic, locally-owned shops. The Weston Historical Museum, Bonnell Museum and the Lewis and Clark exhibit inside the train depot give visitors a historical background of the town.

16600 MO-45 Weston, MO 64098 www.MOStateParks.com/Park/Weston-Bend-State-Park www.WestonMO.com Tisha Foley and her family live in Belton and enjoy exploring Kansas City, especially during warm weather!

9103 E. 39th St. Kansas City, MO 64133 www.CoCoKeyKansasCity.com

Watkins Mill State Park Fleeing the hustle and bustle of the city is occasionally in order, and camping provides the escape that families may need to recharge. Watkins Mill State Park is a short drive from the city and provides plenty of playtime

Westin Crown Center

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MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

add a little junket to your museum jaunt

k

ansas City is home to many well respected museums, each popular with visitors to the city and each residing in a neighborhood with additional adventures to include on your itinerary.

After a visit to the world-renowned Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, visit the nearby Kauffman Memorial Gardens (4800 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, MO). Kauffman Memorial Gardens is one of the most beautiful free attractions in Kansas City. The garden is a collaboration between the Kauffman Foundation and Powell Gardens.

Powell Gardens manages the garden itself, with all of the annuals and many of the perennial plants grown at the Powell Gardens greenhouses.

The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial is one of the most respected history museums in the nation and it draws visitors from around the world. Most visitors know that it is near the attractions at Union Station and Crown Center, but another great nearby attraction is the free Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank (1 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.881.2683). Interactive exhibits explore banking, basic economics and the financial policies that affect your family. Visitors take home a FREE souvenir bag of shredded cash.

48 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence is one of only 13 presidential libraries in the nation. The museum is a must-see on a trip to Kansas City. Be sure also to visit the Independence Square for a sweet treat at Clinton’s Soda Fountain (www.clintonssodafountain.com), an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and one of the first places where young Harry Truman worked as a boy.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures was recently renovated, offering fresh new exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. After a visit, head to the nearby Country Club Plaza and explore the shops and restaurants. Or drive over to Loose Park at 51st & Wornall to enjoy the exquisite rose garden, duck pond, sprayground and playground.

Legoland Discovery Center at Crown Center is a favorite hands-on attraction for kids. With theme park style rides, a 4D Cinema, and a wide variety of play areas, this is a favorite for Lego fans. Next door, visit Sea Life Aquarium or walk over to the Hallmark Visitor’s Center and Kaleidoscope. Crown Center also offers a variety of great options for some lunch and shopping. Take in a show at the Coterie or split a sundae at Sheridan’s.

Legend: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 17 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

The Arts American Jazz Museum

1616 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.474.8463 $ C3 www.AmericanJazzMuseum.com Learn about the history of jazz through fun, interactive exhibits perfect for kids.

Crossroads Art District

Various Galleries in Downtown KC, MO

Free C3 www.KCCrossroads.org Offers more than 100 art galleries, plus tour for free the first Friday evening of each month.

Epsten Gallery 5500 W. 123rd St., OP, KS 913.266.8414 Free B5 www.epstengallery.org Innovative art exhibitions and related programming to engage the community through art.

KC Strings 5842 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS 913.677.0400 $ B4 www.KCStrings.com Groups may tour the stringed instrument shop and discover how master craftsmen make world-class instruments.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 4420 Warwick Blvd., KC, MO 816.753.5784 Free C3 www.KemperArt.org This art gallery features free modern art exhibits. The colossal spider and block-style “Thinker” delight children.

 FEATURED LISTING Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art See ad on pg. 16.

4525 Oak St., KC, MO 816.751.1278 Free C3 www.Nelson-Atkins.org

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is Kansas City’s favorite free attraction, as voted by readers of KC Parent Magazine! Discover masterpieces in the galleries, spend quality time together at a festival or drop in for a weekend art activity. Classes, workshops and tours are also offered.

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

12345 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.469.3000 Free B5 www.NermanMuseum.org This 41,000-square-foot museum is the largest contemporary art museum in the four-state region.

Stocksdale Art Gallery

500 College Hill, Liberty, MO 816.781.7700 Free D1 www.Jewell.edu Regional and national artists are featured at William Jewell’s campus art gallery.

UMKC Gallery of Art

5100 Rockhill Rd., KC, MO 816.235.1502 Free C3 http://info.umkc.edu/art/umkcgallery/ contact/ The gallery features temporary exhibits on 20th-century American and European art.

Children’s Museums Children’s Peace Pavilion

1001 W. Walnut St., Indep, MO 816.521.3033 Free D3 www.cofc3.org/kidpeace/default.asp This is a “do touch” children’s museum designed to teach the concepts of peace through creative, fun, childcentered learning activities.

Exchange City & EarthWorks

8300 NE Underground Dr., KC, MO 816.659.854 Free C2 www.tlekc.org Children learn social studies firsthand as they participate in city government through hands-on activities.

Environmental activities are also presented. Call to book tours.

Kaleidoscope

2500 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.8300 Free C3 www.HallmarkKaleidoscope.com Children create their own unique works of art. Operate a jigsaw puzzle machine, watch paint magically dry, create in a glow-in-the-dark world & more!

Legoland® Discovery Center

2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.4386 $$ C3 www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com A fun, highly interactive and educational indoor experience, ideal for families with children 3-10 years old.

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MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

Alexander Majors Home

Battle of Westport Museum

Amelia Earhart Birthplace

Belton Historical Society & Museum

8201 State Line Rd., KC, MO 816.461.1897 $ C4 www.WornallMajors.org Alexander Majors was one of the founders of the Pony Express. The home was built in 1856.

223 N. Terrace St., Atchison, KS 913.367.4217 $ A1 www.AmeliaEarhartMuseum.org Tour the birthplace and childhood home of Kansas’ famous female aviator. Atchison tells the legend of Amelia and preserves her story.

Arabia Steamboat Museum

American Jazz Museum

Puppetry Arts Institute

11025 E. Winner Rd., Indep, MO 816.833.9777 $ D3 www.Hazelle.org The PAI hosts workshops where students make their own hand puppets or marionettes. Tour the museum for a history of puppets from many countries and watch live shows.

 FEATURED LISTING Wonderscope Children’s Museum See ad on pg. 53.

5700 King St., Shawnee, KS 913.287.8888 $ B4 www.Wonderscope.org Fun, dynamic exhibits and programs that integrate the arts, sciences and literature for children 10 and under, their parents and teachers. Interactive learning experiences with family and friends engage children’s natural motivation to learn and discover their world.

Wonderscope also hosts family-friendly events throughout the year including children’s concerts, story time, puppet shows, family festivals and more. 

www.JCHS.org One-room schoolhouse, marshal’s home, 1859 jail and museum.

1950s All-Electric House

Relocating, open again soon. www.JoCoMuseum.org The 1950s All-Electric House offers an eye-opening look at the technology of the times.

Airline History Museum

201 NW Lou Holland Dr., KC, MO 816.421.3401 $ C3 www.AirlineHistory.org The Airline History Museum contains a collection of photographs, artifacts, printed material and audio/ visual displays telling the story of flight.

400 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.1856 $$ C3 www.1856.com The steamboat Arabia sank in 1856 in the Missouri River, and the treasures of the shipwreck and their history are on exhibit.

Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum

6607 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO 816.453.3276 $ C2 www.AtkinsJohnsonFarm.com The museum depicts farm life in the mid-1800s.

Battle of Westport Memorials

4000 Baltimore Ave., KC, MO 913.345.2000 Free C3 www.BattleOfWestport.org The Civil War Battle of Westport was fought Oct. 21-23, 1864. The center of the main battlefield is located at present-day Loose Park. Visit the website for a driving tour map.

6601 Swope Pkwy., KC, MO 913.345.2000 Free C3 www.BattleOfWestport.org The museum depicts the history of the famous Civil War battle in western Missouri.

512 Main St., Belton, MO 816.331.1905 $ C5 www.BeltonHistoricalSociety.org View artifacts preserving the history of Belton, including the story of Carrie A. Nation, the Shawnee Indians and Order No. 11.

Ben Ferrell Platte County Museum

220 Ferrel St., Platte City, MO 816.431.5121 $ A1 www.BenFerrellMuseum.com This 1881 home is a replica of the Missouri Governor’s Mansion. County historical archives and exhibits are housed here.

Berlin Wall Monument

Grove of Regiments on Bundel Rd., Fort Leavenworth, KS 913.682.4113 Free A1 www.VisitLeavenworthKS.com The monument memorializes the historic barrier that separated West and East Berlin during the Cold War.

Bingham-Waggoner Estate

313 W. Pacific Ave., Indep, MO 816.461.3491 $ D3 www.BWEstate.org This 1855 museum depicts the history of George Caleb Bingham, one of Missouri’s most famous artists and politicians, and the mansion in which he lived.

Historic Sites, Museums and Tours 1827 Log Courthouse

107 W. Kansas Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7111 Free D3 www.VisitIndependence.com Tour the 1827 log courthouse and learn about the controversial slaveland dispute and westward expansion issues that were resolved there.

1859 Marshal’s Home and Jail Museum

217 N. Main St., Indep, MO 816.252.1892 $ D3 50 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

Ensor Farmsite and Museum

1722 E. 17th Ter., KC, MO 816.221.1600 Free C3 www.BlackArchives.org Call to schedule a tour of the collections featuring the works of black artists, writers, musicians and leaders in Kansas City.

18995 W. 183rd St., Olathe, KS 913.592.4141 $ A5 www.ensorparkandmuseum.org The Marshal Ensor Park and Museum in Olathe is a seasonal museum devoted to the teacher, craftsman and amateur radio operator and his influence.

Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center

Excelsior Springs Historical Museum

3700 Blue Pkwy., KC, MO 816.513.0700 Free C3 www.brucewatkinscenter.com This museum is a tribute to the legacy of Kansas City’s early AfricanAmerican pioneers, portraying the artistic, cultural and social history of the African-American experience.

Burnt District Museum

400 E. Mechanic, Suite 203, Harrisonville, MO 816.380.4396 $ C5 www.CI.Harrisonville.MO.US Civil War Museum with exhibits including a diorama of the Battle of Morristown, timelines, first edition print of George Caleb Bingham’s “Martial Law, Order #11,” photo archives and more.

Clay County Courthouse

101 E. Broadway St., Excelsior Springs, MO 816.630.0101 Free D1 www.ExSMO.com Located in the former Clay County Bank building, the museum allows guests to view historic records and artifacts and learn the history of Excelsior Springs.

Federal Reserve Bank & Money Museum

1 Memorial Dr., KC, MO 816.881.2683 Free C3 www.KansasCityFed.org Tour Kansas City’s Federal Reserve Bank and learn about the U.S. monetary system. Children can make their own money and leave with a shredded souvenir!

11 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 816.407.3250 Free D2 www.Circuit7.net A self-guided tour tells the history of Clay County, including stories of Jesse James.

First City Museum

Clay County Museum

Fort Osage

14 N. Main St., Liberty, MO 816.792.1849 Free D1 www.ClayCountyMuseum.org Step into the past in a museum on the historic Liberty Square where the James Gang carried out the first daylight bank robbery in American history, and Civil War soldiers once marched.

C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

320 S. Esplanade, Leavenworth, KS 913.682.1331 $ A1 www.FirstCityMuseums.org Learn about Kansan C.W. Parker, the legendary manufacturer of carousels and amusement rides. Tour the museum to learn the history of the carousel and enjoy a ride as well!

Dillingham-Lewis Home

101 SW 15th St., Blue Springs, MO 816.224.8979 Free D4 www.BlueSpringsHistory.org Tour a 20th-century pioneer home to see how early settlers in Jackson County lived.

MUSEUMS

Black Archives of Mid-America

743 Delaware St., Leavenworth, KS 913.682.1866 $ A1 www.FirstCityMuseums.org Exhibits highlight the history of Kansas’ first city.

107 Osage St., Sibley, MO 816.650.3278 $ D2 www.JacksonGov.org/FortOsage Built in 1808, this was the first U.S. outpost in the Louisiana Purchase.

Osage Indian history and early military history are depicted through exhibits and special events.

Frontier Army Museum

100 Reynolds Ave., Fort Leavenworth, KS 913.684.3767 Free A1 www.FFAM.us Fort Leavenworth is the oldest active Army post west of the Mississippi.

Learn about the history of the Frontier Army from 1804 to 1916 and Fort Leavenworth from 1827 to the present.

Grandview Historical Depot Museum

1205 Jones St., Grandview, MO 816.761.6271 $ C4 www.Grandview.org The museum, housed in a caboose, preserves Grandview history.

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Grinter Place State Historic Site

1420 S. 78th St., KC, KS 913.299.0373 Free A3 www.KSHS.org A trip to Grinter Place isn’t just a look inside the oldest home in Wyandotte County. It’s a step back to the days of frontier life along the Kansas and Missouri border.

Harris-Kearney House

4000 Baltimore Ave., KC, MO 816.561.1821 $ C3 www.WestportHistorical.com Tour the 1855 house that served as a hotel in old Westport and stands as one of Kansas City’s oldest landmarks.

 FEATURED LISTING Harry S. Truman Presidential Library See ad on pg. 59.

500 US Hwy. 24, Indep, MO 816.268.8200 $ D3 www.TrumanLibrary.org The major issues and events of Harry Truman’s presidency are highlighted in the 10,500-squarefoot permanent exhibit Truman: The Presidential Years. Featuring two decision theaters, enhanced audio and video programs, and interactive elements, this exhibition forms the centerpiece of the Truman Library and Museum. 

Herbert Bonnell Museum

20755 Lamar Rd., Weston, MO 816.992.0102 Free A1 www.WestonMo.com Tour an 1874 working farm and explore the museum.

Historic Liberty Jail

216 N. Main St., Liberty, MO 816.781.3188 Free D1 www.LDS.org Discover the history of the jail and learn the story of Joseph Smith, the Morman leader who was imprisoned in the jail in 1838 for his beliefs.

Historic Pharis Farm

20611 EE Hwy., Liberty, MO 816.736.8500 $ D2 www.ClayCountyMO.gov Learn about the Pharis farm of 1836, when Fielding Bell, the son of a Revolutionary War veteran, migrated to Clay County, MO, from Mason County, KY.

Irish Museum & Cultural Center

15 W. Linwood Blvd, KC, MO 816.474.3848 Free C3 www.IrishCenterKC.org Discover Kansas City’s Irish history.

Learn about early immigrants to our city, research genealogies and learn the art and culture of Ireland.

Jackson County Historical Society Archives

Jackson County Courthouse, Main & Maple, Independence, MO 816.461.1897 Free D3 www.JCHS.org kcgoingplaces.com 51

MUSEUMS

Leavenworth National Cemetery

150 8th St., Leavenworth, KS 913.758.4105 Free A1 www.Cem.VA.Gov This historic cemetery is the burial site for many soldiers, beginning with the Civil War. In 1919, a monument was erected in memory of “Soldiers Who Died for Their Country.”

Leavenworth Trolley Tour

320 S. Esplanade, Leavenworth, KS 913.682.1023 $ A1 www.VisitLeavenworthKS.com Tour Leavenworth and learn her history from Ft. Leavenworth to the invention of the American carousel to the stories of its early citizens.

Science City at Union Station The archives house Jackson County documents dating back to 1840.

Harry S. Truman, frontier trails, the Civil War and local outlaws are the focus.

Jesse James Bank Museum

103 N. Water St., Liberty, MO 816.736.8510 $ D2 www.ClayCountyMo.gov Visit the site of the first U.S. daylight peacetime bank robbery.

Jesse James Farm & Museum

21216 James Farm Rd., Kearney, MO 816.736.8500 $ D1 www.ClayCountyMO.gov Tour the Jesse James home and learn about the famous outlaw and pre-Civil War history in northern Missouri.

John Wornall House Museum

6115 Wornall Rd., KC, MO 816.444.1858 $ C4 www.wornallmajors.org The 1858 museum offers special events and programs telling the history of Kansas City during the Civil War.

Johnson County Kansas Archives

19310 W. 159th St., Olathe, KS 913.715.0400 Free A5 www.archives.JoCoGov.org Archives of Johnson County, KS, history are open to visitors.

Johnson County Museum

6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.715.2550 Free A4 www.JoCoGov.org The museum is a great place to spend the day learning about Johnson County’s history.

KC Fun Trolley Tours

Tours Board at Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.500.5417 $$ C3 www.KCFunTours.com Tour the popular sights and local favorites aboard an authentic trolley.

Kansas City Gangster Tour

Tours Board at Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.471.1234 $$ C3 www.TheKCTours.com Call to schedule a tour. The Gangster Tour puts you hot on the trail of this city’s most notorious Goodfellas.

Kansas City Historic Garment District Museum

801 Broadway, KC, MO 816.474.2112 Free C3 www.KCGarmentMuseum.org The museum tells the story of Kansas City’s garment factories from the 1920s through the 1980s.

KCMO City Hall

414 E. 12th St., KC, MO 816.513.1313 Free C3 www.KCMO.org Tour Kansas City’s City Hall and learn about the inner workings of the city government. Climb the stairs to the top to enjoy the observation deck with a beautiful view of downtown.

Kansas City Museum

3218 Gladstone Blvd., KC, MO 816.483.8300 $ C3 www.KCMO.GOV/KansasCityMuseum The museum is currently under restoration. Enjoy restoration tours of the mansion and KC history stories in the Story-Tarium, as well as the annual Fairy Princess visit at Christmas.

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KC Rail Experience

Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.UnionStation.org Experience sights and sounds from the golden age of rail travel. Personal histories, vintage rail cars and unique artifacts bring to life a great American tradition.

Korean War Veterans Memorial Kansas City

Washington Square Park: Pershing & Main, KC, MO Free C3 www.MoKoreanWarMemorial.org A memorial dedicated to the memory of those who served during the Korean War.

Korean War Veterans Memorial Overland Park

11902 Lowell Ave., OP, KS www.KWVA.org Free B5 The KWVA Memorial features an engraved wall honoring the fallen and missing soldiers of the Korean War. The rock piles on the site were erected to represent Korea’s battlefields.

Korean/Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Wyandotte County Park: 91st St. & Leavenworth Rd., KC, KS 913.596.7077 Free A2 www.WyCoKCK.org America’s first dual war memorial is dedicated to veterans of both the Korean and Vietnam wars.

Lanesfield School Historic Site

18745 S. Dillie Rd., Edgerton, KS 913.893.6645 Free A5 www.JoCoMuseum.org The Lanesfield School Historic Site is a tribute to rural schooling.

 FEATURED LISTING Lee’s Summit Railroad Museum See ad on pg. 7.

220 SE Main St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.287.4477 Free D4 www.LeesSummitHistory.net Displays include a re-creation of the Vogue Theater, a WPA kitchen, information on local musical families the Brownings and Methenys, and an exhibit on the Border War, including Lee’s Summit’s notorious resident Cole Younger. Much more can be found at the musuem, including a gift shop and research room. 

Legler Barn Museum

14907 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 913.492.0038 Free A4 www.LenexaHistoricalSociety.org The historic site was believed to be a Jesse James and Quantrill hideout during the 1861 Lawrence raid. The site displays changing exhibits on local history.

Leila’s Hair Museum

1333 S. Noland Rd., Indep, MO 816.833.2955 $$ D3 www.LeilasHairMuseum.net Check out this curiosity: 159 wreaths and more than 2,000 pieces of jewelry made of human hair, dating to before 1900.

Lone Jack Battlefield Museum

301 S. Bynum Rd., Lone Jack, MO 816.697.8833 Free D5 www.HistoricLoneJack.org Enjoy this museum and battlefield tour of the Battle of Lone Jack.

 FEATURED LISTING Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm See ad on pg. 53.

1200 Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 913.971.5111 $ A5 www.mahaffie.org

8010 E. Park Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.503.4860 $ D4 www.makeyourdayhere.com/213/ Missouri-Town-1855 Missouri Town is a reconstructed 1850s farming community. Tour 30 buildings, including a school, church, farm homes, general store and more.

Mount Gilead Church & School

15918 Plattsburg Rd., Kearney, MO 816.736.8500 Free D1 www.claycountymo.gov/historic Tour a one-room schoolhouse, where school continued to meet through the Civil War, and a historic church.

The Museum at Prairiefire

5801 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.333.3500 $ B5 www.MuseumAtPF.org The museum showcases world renowned exhibits.

630 N. 126th St., Bonner Springs, KS 913.721.1075 $ A3 www.AgHallOfFame.com Learn about agriculture in the Heartland. Enjoy train rides, hayrides, tractor tours, special events and more.

National Frontier Trails Museum

318 W. Pacific Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7575 $ D3 www.CI.Independence.MO.us/NFTM Features the history of the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails. Learn about local trail history and wagon swales, load a wagon and learn the history of westward expansion.

 FEATURED LISTING The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures See ad on pg. 79.

5235 Oak St., KC, MO 816.235.8000 $ C3 www.ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures educates, inspires and delights adults and children through the museum’s collection and preservation of toys and miniatures. The newly remodeled museum delights visitors of all ages with innovative and engaging exhibits. 

 FEATURED LISTING National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial See ad on pg. 49.

100 W. 26th St., KC, MO 816.888.8100 $ C3 www.TheWorldWar.org Through original objects and documents, video, recreated trenches and interactive tables, the museum shares a comprehensive history of the First World War with visitors. Limited-run exhibitions tell newly curated stories of the Great War, often drawing from the museum’s comprehensive archives of more than 75,000 objects and documents. 

Oxford Schoolhouse

Ironwoods Park: 14701 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.339.6700 Free B5 www.Leawood.org/Parks Oxford School is one of the oldest schools in the state of Kansas, now offering living history programs where children experience the one-room school day of pioneers.

Pioneer Trails Adventures

217 N. Main, Indep, MO 816.254.2466 $ D3 www.PioneerTrailsAdventures.com

Enjoy a mule-drawn covered wagon ride as you learn about the city’s history and famous citizens, including Wild Bill Hickok, General Sterling Price and Harry Truman.

Raytown Historical Society and Museum

9705 E. 63rd St., Raytown, MO 816.353.5033 $ C3 www.RaytownHistoricalSociety.org Museum features a general store, Raytown history and traveling exhibits.

Rice-Tremonti Home

8801 E. 66th St., Raytown, MO 816.358.7423 $ C3 www.Rice-Tremonti.com Visit the oldest standing frame house in Jackson County, MO.

Rosedale Memorial Arch

35th St. & Booth, KC, KS 913.677.5097 Free B3 www.WyCoKcK.org Inspired by Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, this arch was built in 1923 to pay tribute to WWI veterans. In 1993, a monument was installed under the arch to honor WWII, Korea and Vietnam veterans.

Day Out with Frank and Ella | 3Wednesdays & Thursdays June & July Family Fun Nights | Thursdays June & July 19th Century Fireworks/Olathe Civic Band Night | July 7 Summer Living History | Memorial Day through Labor Day Wild West Days | September 24 & 25

Missouri Town 1855

National Agricultural Hall of Fame

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MUSEUMS

Visit the only working stagecoach stop open to the public on the Santa Fe Trail. Relive the adventures of early stagecoach passengers. Tour the home, blacksmith shop and farm. Mahaffie offers many events throughout the year, including handson programs for children, stagecoach rides and living history days. 

MUSEUMS

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Broadway & W. 42nd St., KC, MO 816.561.8387 Free C3 Dedicated in 1986 to all Vietnam veterans, with a special salute to veterans from KC, the memorial includes a wall with the names of 336 area veterans killed or missing in action.

Watkins Woolen Mill

26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO 816.580.3387 $ D1 www.WatkinsMill.org The mill is America’s only 19th-century textile factory with original machinery.

Tour the home, visitor’s center, farm, and brick mill and see how workers turned fleece into fabric.

Weston Historical Museum Wonderscope Children’s Museum

Shawnee Indian Mission

Thomas Hart Benton Home

3403 W. 53rd St., Fairway, KS 913.262.0867 $ B3 www.KSHS.org Johnson County is named for Thomas Johnson, the founder of the Shawnee Indian Mission. Learn the history of the Shawnee and early Johnson County, KS.

3616 Belleview Ave., KC, MO 816.931.5722 $ C3 www.mostateparks.com Tour the home of one of Missouri’s most famous artists. See the artist’s studio and work firsthand.

 FEATURED LISTING Shawnee Town 1929 See ad on pg. 59.

Jackson County Courthouse, 112 W. Lexington, Indep, MO 816.881.3000 $ D3 www.JacksonGov.org Tour the office and courtroom used

by Mr. Truman in his early years of elected politics. Remodeled office opening soon.

11501 W. 57th St., Shawnee, KS 913.248.2360 $ B3 www.ShawneeTown.org Shawnee Town 1929 is a museum that is a division of the City of Shawnee’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Visitors can experience a typical day in and around the 1920s farm community of Shawnee, KS, through authentic collections, exhibits, programs and events.

Shoal Creek Living History Museum

7000 NE Barry Rd., KC, MO 816.792.2655 $ C1 www.KCMO.org Shoal Creek Living History Museum is a village of more than 20 authentic 19th-century buildings. Hands-on history is taught through programs and events.

Strawberry Hill Museum

720 N. 4th St., KC, KS 913.371.3264 $ B3 www.StrawberryHillMuseum.org This Queen Anne-style 1887 home tells the story of immigrants from Eastern Europe. Visit the Russian Tea Room for lunch or brunch!

Truman Courtroom and Office

Truman Farm Home

12301 Blue Ridge Blvd., Grandview, MO 816.254.9929 $ C5 www.NPS.gov/HSTR Built in 1894, this was Harry Truman’s childhood residence from 1906 to 1917.

Truman Home

219 N. Delaware, Indep, MO 816.254.9929 $ D3 www.NPS.gov/HSTR Tour the home of President and Mrs. Truman where they lived. The apple green kitchen, simple furnishings, untouched calendar and family collections reflect their lifestyle.

UFDC Doll Museum

10900 N. Pomona Ave., KC, MO 816.891.7040 $ B1 www.UFDC.org Museum features exhibits on dolls from around the world and throughout history.

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Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Federal Courthouse

400 E. 9th St., KC, MO 816.426.3963 Free C3 www.GSA.gov/portal/content/101540 Tour the Federal Courthouse and learn how the judicial branch of government works.

U.S. National Archives

400 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.268.8000 Free C3 www.Archives.gov Kansas City has one of the 11 branches of the National Archives. The collections include historical, diplomatic, genealogical and military documents, artifacts and exhibits.

Vaile Mansion 1500 N. Liberty St., Indep, MO 816.325.7430 $ D3 www.VaileMansion.org Guided tours are offered of the 1882 Victorian mansion.

Veterans Memorial Park 1025 S. Harrison, Olathe, KS 913.971.8563 Free A5 www.OlatheKS.org/ParksRec/ This 4-acre park honors the men and women who served America in the Armed Services.

Veterans Park

Center & Pawnee St., Gardner, KS 913.856.7535 Free A5 www.GardnerKansas.gov The park features a veterans memorial as well as park facilities: playground, trail, basketball court, etc.

601 Main St., Weston, MO 816.386.2977 Free D3 www.WestonHistoricalMuseum.org From rare Native American moccasins to early physician instruments to vintage clothing displays, the Weston Historical Museum has preserved local artifacts to enjoy today.

Wyandotte County Historical Society and Museum

631 N. 126th St., Bonner Springs, KS 913.573.5002 Free A3 www.WYCoKCK.org Hands-on exhibits and artifacts depict the history of Wyandotte County and Native Americans.

Science Museums and Sites  FEATURED LISTING Gottlieb Planetarium See ad on pg. 55.

Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.UnionStation.org The Gottlieb Planetarium’s 360-degree domed screen and advance projection system immerse visitors in an experience that is simultaneously entertaining and informative. From a regular presentation about the solar system to the occasional special musical collaboration, the planetarium dazzles with one of the largest dome experiences in the Midwest. 

KU Natural History Museum

1345 Jayhawk Blvd., Lawrence, KS 785.864.4450 $ A3 www.NaturalHistory.KU.edu Four floors of exhibits help you explore the life of the planet. You will discover the animals and plants of the Great Plains, see a live bee colony and a toothy mosasaur fossil.

26500 Melrose St., Louisburg, KS 913.837.5305 $ B5 www.askc.org/powell.htm Powell Observatory is home to the largest telescope in a five-state area.

 FEATURED LISTING Science City at Union Station See ad on pg. 55.

30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.ScienceCity.com Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to outer space, music to optical illusions, medicine and weather. Housed in Union Station, a popular destination drawing tourists who marvel at the Grand Hall’s 95-foot ceiling and 3,500-pound chandeliers. 

Harley-Davidson Assembly Plant

11401 N. Congress Ave., KC, MO 816.270.8023 Free B1 www.Harley-Davidson.com Tour the factory and watch the assembly of Harley-Davidson motorcycles firsthand.

Kansas City Auto Museum

15095 W. 116th St., Olathe, KS 913.322.4227 $ B5 www.KansasCityAutoMuseum.com A new museum honoring the rich heritage of Kansas City’s automotive manufacturing and collector community.

Louisburg Cider Mill

Special Interest Museums & Tours

14730 KS 68 Hwy., Louisburg, KS 800.748.7765 Free B5 www.LouisburgCiderMill.com The entire family will enjoy watching cider and donuts being made firsthand.

Ambiance on the Water

Moon Marble

200 Ward Pkwy., KC, MO 816.365.7101 $$ C3 www.AmbianceOnTheWater.com Enjoy a ride aboard one of two custom designed boats for a romantic tour of the Plaza River Walk.

600 E. Front St., Bonner Springs, KS 913.441.1432 Free A3 www.MoonMarble.com Watch marble making, learn marble games and visit the store with oldfashioned toys.

Armacost Car Museum

 FEATURED LISTING Negro Leagues Baseball Museum See ad on pg. 69.

4200 E. 135th St., Grandview, MO 816.763.9683 $$ C5 www.PetersonCarMuseum.com Two floors of restored vintage cars in a space available for special events.

Chip’s Chocolate Factory

Crown Center: 2450 Grand Ave., KC, MO 816.421.0012 Free C3 www.ChipsChocolateFactory.com Visit the shop and factory where KC’s very own KC Fudge was developed more than 27 years ago.

College Basketball Experience

1401 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.949.7500 $ C3 www.CollegeBasketballExperience.com Hands-on exhibits place visitors in game-like situations.

Hallmark Visitors Center

2450 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.3613 Free C3 www.HallmarkVisitorsCenter.com Discover the story of Hallmark from humble beginnings in 1910 to the creation of this world-famous company through interactive displays and fascinating exhibits.

1616 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.221.1920 $ C3 www.NLBM.com Founded in 1990, the 10,000-squarefoot Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves the rich history of AfricanAmerican baseball. Experience a tour of multimedia displays, museum store, hundreds of photographs and artifacts dating from the late 1800s through the 1960s. Through educational programming and innovative exhibitions, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves the history of African-American baseball. 

Kansas City’s Science Center

MUSEUMS

Powell Observatory

at Union Station

Experience it all with hands-on learning and non-stop FUN for the whole family!

Huge New Exhibits & Open Year-Round • Over 200+ engaging exhibits • Educator-led workshops and demonstrations • New science-themed activities every week

Members Visit for FREE!

INTERNATIONAL

WINNER VISITOR EXPERIENCE

AWARD

The Roasterie Inc.

1204 W. 27th St., KC, MO 816.931.4000 FREE C3 www.TheRoasterie.com Tour the coffee company and learn about cupping, roasting and blending.

Royals Hall of Fame

Kauffman Stadium 1 Royal Way, KC, MO 816.921.8000 $ C3 http://KansasCity.Royals.MLB.com An education and entertainment venue that includes artifacts, photos and videos tracing the history of Royals baseball.

Spend a few hours or an entire day at Kansas City’s Science Center!

ScienceCity.com

Proud to be a

Smithsonian Affiliate Smithsonian Affiliate kcgoingplaces.com 55

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Schlitterbahn Waterpark

ways to savor summer in Kansas City make the most of your summer in Kansas City with these favorite local experiences

By Kristina Light et an amazing view of the city from the River 1 GObservation Tower as you gaze out over the vast Missouri River.

McGonigle’s ribs. Since 1951 the market has 2 Savor been selling some of the tastiest meats in the city.

The smoker entices customers in the summer with the promise of juicy ribs and barbecue.

Treat your kids to a frozen delight at a Kona Ice truck 3 parked at local festivals and attractions through the summer. Using the flavor wave, customers flavor their own slushes. the fish at Longview Lake, then enjoy a dip at 4 Feed the swim beach or rent a boat at the marina.

Maker Faire, June 25-26 at Union Station, 5 Attend a festival celebrating things people create themselves—from new technology and electronic gizmos to urban farming, “slow-made” foods and unique art projects.

6 Visit the big cats at Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. njoy a free concert in the 7 Epark (see our Kansas City calendar of events for a full schedule on KCParent.com). a live Broadway show 8 Watch under the stars at Starlight Theatre.

6 56 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Monkey Mountain and other local trails found in 9 Hike the book Hiking Kansas City. elight in decadent 10 DChristopher Elbow.

artisan

chocolate

from

a picnic and spend a day visiting animals at 11 Pack the Kansas City Zoo. for the Kansas City Royals and enjoy Friday 12 Root night fireworks.

10 8

Kansas City’s historic cemeteries and see 16 Explore where her most famous residents are laid to rest. The book Here Lies Kansas City by Wilda Sandy offers a visual tour of these famous graves. to Moon Marble in Bonner Springs and watch a 17 Head marble making demonstration.

18 Play at Antioch Park in their Wild West Playground. the Mamba at Worlds of Fun and enjoy water 19 Ride rides at Oceans of Fun. 20 Take a tour of the more than 200 fountains that call Kansas City home.

Attend the monthly Sprint Family Fun Days in the Indulge in a hand-crafted soda or snow cone at 21 13 Little Power and Light District.

Freshie, where customers revel in flavors like blackberry lavender, strawberry rhubarb and more. a free family fun night at Mahaffie Stagecoach 22 Attend Stop (Thursdays in the summer), where history comes Downtown Kansas City and take photos with 14 Explore to life. public art on display. a class at the Culinary Center 23 Take of Kansas City. lost in the new glass labyrinth 24 Get on the lawn of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. ide the rails with the Belton, 25 RGrandview & KC Railroad, the

20

Midland Railway or the KC Northern Railroad. All three offer great train rides on the weekends in the summer.

24 the Harley-Davidson Factory and watch as a 15 Tour motorcycle is assembled from start to finish.

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Enjoy stargazing at Powell Observatory, home to a 26 30-inch telescope, the largest available for public viewing in the Midwest.

Attend a favorite local art festival, the Brookside Art 27 Annual, April 29-May 1.

Window shop and take photos at the Country Club 28 Plaza, then top off the day by sharing a skyscraper (GIANT ice cream soda) at Winstead’s. tour of the Kansas City, MO, City Hall and go 29 toTakethearoof for amazing views of downtown.

30

30 Play a round of miniature golf at Cool Crest.

28

Learn about the 31 Nature Center.

Santa Fe Trail at Cave Springs

animals at the Native Hoofed Animal Enclosure 32 Feed in Fleming Park.

33 Ride Verrückt at Schlitterbahn Waterpark.

Celebrate African-American baseball history at the 34 Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. blueberries, strawberries and fresh fruit at Kansas 35 Pick City’s u-pick farms on KCParent.com. reat the kids to some of Shatto Dairy Farm’s signature 36 Tice cream and ice cream “sammiches.”

58 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

one of the area’s quaint shopping districts lo40 Ride the sky bike, a high-wire bicycle, at Science 37 Explore cated on Main Street in KC’s surrounding suburbs and City. small towns. Search “Main Street on KCParent.com” for itineraries.

the fine art of butchering at Local Pig, where 41 Learn they offer hands-on classes in everything meat.

the National World War I Museum at Liberty 38 Visit 42 Play disc golf at Swope Park.

Memorial and grab a free Family Guide at the enatch as homemade potato chips are sliced trance with a scavenger hunt for the kids. End your 43 Wand fried in the machine at Price Chopper at 151st & trip with photos at the top of the tower.

Watch a retro flick on the big screen at the Alamo 39 Drafthouse movie theater.

Metcalf, then indulge in a bag of your favorite flavor.

44 Discover Kansas City’s rich history aboard the trolley. al fresco at one of the many restaurants of45 Dine fering patio seating at the Country Club Plaza, Brookside Shopping District, Briarcliff Village, Park Place or Prairiefire.

46 Laugh at the live improv comedy at ComedyCity.

Dine with dinosaurs at T-Rex Cafe at the Legends 47 Outlets.

48 Rent a pedal boat at Shawnee Mission Lake.

Take a free trip to the Money Museum and leave 49 with a bag of shredded cash.

39

KCParent.com and search 50 Visit more ideas all year long!

our calendar for

Sponsored by the Truman Library Institute, the nonprofit partner of the Truman Library

Come Experience Shawnee Town 1929!

THE BUCK STOPS HERE« – HARRY S. TRUMAN

HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY AND MUSEUM « OPEN DAILY / Minutes from Downtown Kansas City « MEMBERS VISIT FREE / Join at TrumanLibraryInstitute.org

• • • • •

Living History Programs Family Friendly Events Concerts Rentals Family Fun

Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th Street • 913. 248.2360

www.shawneetown.org

kcgoingplaces.com 59 Truman_KCGoingPlaces_Spring2016.indd 1

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in the Greater Kansas City Area made from Shatto milk. The tour costs $5/person (over 2 years old) and must be made by appointment. Contact Shatto Milk Company at 816.930.3862 or email at office@ shattomilk.com.

Beanstalk Children’s Garden Kansas City, MO kccg.org/garden-with-us/beanstalk-childrens-garden/

Shatto Milk Company

A

mong the many reasons visitors and residents appreciate Kansas City is the outstanding agritourism industry. The list of gardens, farms and locally supported farm-to-table eateries seems endless. Here are a few notable stops for the agritourist in the KC area.

Shatto Milk Company Osborn, MO shattomilk.com Although the land on which Shatto Dairy Farm can be found today has been in the same family for three generations—since the late 1800s—the Shatto Milk Company local Kansas Citians have come to love was actually formed in 2003. Shatto’s milk is unique in that it is 100 percent produced from Shatto Farm’s cows, contains no recombinant bovine growth hormones (rbGH) and is delivered to stores in reusable glass bottles, which are far better for the environment than throw-away plastic bottles.

Shatto Milk Company offers tours Tuesday through Saturday throughout the year. These tours provide an educational and fun opportunity for families to learn about milk production, including the milking of cows and a tour of the processing plant. Guests may have the opportunity to feed a baby calf and always can sample many tasty treats

60 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

The Leanna Flandermeyer Beanstalk Children’s Garden provides an excellent opportunity for kids to learn about growing food, insects, nutrition and plant science. Children will be able see, touch, smell and taste plants throughout six gardens: the vegetable garden, the fruit garden, the herb garden, the seed and grain garden, the curiosity garden and the water garden. Each garden presents a unique view of agriculture—from peanuts and popcorn in the seed and grain garden to fish and frogs in the water garden.

Between June and October, families can tour the gardens for free or enjoy a guided tour for $2/person. Email Beanstalk Children’s Garden at earlene@kccg.org to schedule a tour!

Kaw Valley NE Kansas kawvalleyfarmtour.org Kaw Valley includes a vast area of Kansas, abundant in farms, gardens, country stores and wineries. Although this

Kaw Valley

area’s most popular event is the fall Kaw Valley Farm Tour, many of the participating farms have summer hours for visitors to take tours and sample their delicious, locally grown products.

A popular venue for kids is Prairie City Miniature Horses in Baldwin City. Kids can see the mini horses and all the tricks they can do, as well as ride the Prairie City Tram. Visitors are encouraged to stop in at Country Road Farms for a sample of their all natural chicken, beef and pork.

Another great option in the Kaw Valley area is Blossom Trail Bee Ranch. Kids love learning about bees and how vital they are to our environment. The tour includes viewing of beehives that draw on as many as five sources of nectar for distinct flavors of artisanal honey. This farm produces honey, beeswax, free-range eggs, peaches, blackberries, apples, onions and garlic.

And finally, a third recommendation from Kaw Valley is Henry’s Plant Farm, which houses 20 greenhouses full of a wide variety of plants. Here you will find vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials and shrubs. Kids can have fun in the butterfly garden and morning glory tunnel and also visit the lambs, peacocks and alpaca.

And don’t forget to check out Kaw Valley’s wineries, including KC Wine Co., Crescent Moon Winery and Crooked Post Winery.

Green Dirt Farm Weston, MO greendirtfarm.com Green Dirt Farm is true to its name, as it was founded on the philosophy that good food (mainly good cheese) comes from good dirt. What does this mean? The farmers at Green Dirt Farm are committed to building healthy soil, which yields nutritious grass for their sheep to eat. And healthy sheep produce the best-tasting milk, which leads to the best-tasting cheese and yogurt.

Green Dirt Farm also is committed to humane treatment of their sheep, who roam freely and are only fed the farm’s natural grass. Visitors will sample some of the best cheeses around at Green Dirt Farm. The farm will be hosting 14 cheese tasting events and 10 farm-to-table dinners, so check out their website and plan a trip there this spring or summer!

Powell Gardens Kingsville, MO powellgardens.org Likely the best-known botanical garden in the Kansas City area, Powell Gardens is an important part of our local agritourism industry. Like other farms and gardens in this list, Powell Gardens—specifically the Heartland Harvest Garden—exemplifies the beautiful journey of food, from

Green Dirt Farms

seed to plate. Tourists will walk through the garden, seeing (and sampling!) delicious fruits, such as apples, pears and peaches, learn about the origin of coffee beans and how chocolate is made, and tour the vineyard’s paths of luscious grapes. Children should stop at the Fun Foods Farm where they can dig for worms and play in Mr. McGregor’s garden, just like Peter Rabbit did.

Powell Gardens is a place to visit multiple times, as there is so much to see and do. Don’t miss their big summer events: Booms & Blooms on July 2 and the Festival of Butterflies on Aug. 5-7 and 12-14.

Farmers Markets and Restaurants Another delicious and healthy way to appreciate Kansas City’s agriculture is to visit any of our local farmers markets, where fresh meats, fruits and vegetables from local farms are sold. A comprehensive list of farmers markets can be found at kcfoodcircle.org/all-farmers-markets/.

Greater Kansas City is also full of award-winning farm-totable restaurants that proudly serve gourmet meals made with local products. A list of restaurants can be found at kcfoodcircle.org/restaurants/.

Whether you’re a resident and planning on staying for a while, or you’re in town visiting for a few days, the opportunities to enjoy Kansas City’s agriculture are abundant. Eat, drink and be fresh!

Karen Johnson is a local writer who loves exploring off-thebeaten-path places in the Midwest.

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SHOWTIME

SHOWTIME

Shakespeare in the Park

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dinner and a show

njoy dinner and a live show at one of Kansas City’s premier theaters.

The Coterie is Kansas City’s professional children’s theater located on the first floor of Crown Center.

From March 21 to May 7, watch Where the Wild Things Are. June 14-Aug. 7, Madagascar: A Musical Adventure takes the stage. Crown Center is home to many fantastic restaurants, but all-time faves for the kids will always be Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, where trains deliver food to your table, or d’Bronx, the New York-style delicatessen and pizzeria.

Kansas City’s outdoor summer theater, Starlight, is bringing six shows to the stage this summer. The season lineup kicks off with a family blockbuster that TIME Magazine named its number one show of 2013: Matilda The Musical. Other productions include The Bridges of Madison County, Bullets over Broadway, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, If/Then and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder. Enjoy pre-show dining at the Applause Club.

Kansas City’s free Shakespeare in the Park is a beloved summer tradition. This year on June 14-July 3, the 24th season brings to the stage Twelfth Night; or, What You Will, Shakespeare’s hilarious romantic comedy set in romantic Illyria. Concessions are available at the festival, and picnics are welcome.

The Kansas City Repertory Theatre performs on two stages, one on the UMKC campus near the Country

62 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Club Plaza and the other in the Kansas City Power & Light District. Both shopping districts are home to dozens of excellent restaurants appealing to any palate. April 23-May 22, watch Origin KC: New Works Festival, showcasing two stories, Fire in Dreamland and Lot’s Wife.

Enjoy the Kansas City Ballet’s performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. The 2015/16 season concludes with the spring production Rite of Spring, showing May 5-16. The show features four Kansas City premieres: Petal by Helen Pickett, Diving into the Lilacs

by Yuri Possokhov, World Premiere by Viktor Plotnikov and Rite of Spring by Adam Hougland. Los Tules, one of the most authentic and delicious Mexican restaurants in town is across the street. And for upscale dining, you can enjoy brunch or dinner next door at the elegant Webster House.

Little ones will delight in Theatre for Young America’s live plays at Union Station. The upcoming season includes The Life and Times of the Three Little Pigs, showing April 12-May 14, and Jack and the Beanstalk, showing June 7-24. Stop in at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for a treat before or after the show! And visit Science City before or after the show to enjoy hands-on science exhibits or check out the KC Rail Experience to see the largest model train display in the metro.

Legend: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 17 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Dance, Music & Theater Avila College Goppert Theatre

11901 Wornall Rd., KC, MO 816.501.3699 $$ C5 www.Avila.edu Students offer live theater performances.

Barn Players Community Theatre

6219 Martway, Mission, KS 913.432.9100 $ B3 www.TheBarnPlayers.org Enjoy live community theater performances.

Bell Road Barn Players

David Theater at Park University: 8700 NW River Park Dr., Parkville, MO 816.587.0218 $ B2 www.BellRoadBarn.com Live community theater performances.

Big Creek Country Show

110 Veterans Pkwy., Pleasant Hill, MO 816.524.6856 $$ A5 www.BigCreekCountry.com Country musicians and comedians offer shows for the family.

Blue Springs City Theater

2000 NW Ashton Dr., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0137 $ D3 www.BlueSpringsCityTheater.com Live community theater performances.

Carlsen Center at JCCC

12345 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.469.4445 $$ B4 www.JCCC.edu Concerts, ballet, live theater, puppet shows and performances from around the world grace the Carlsen Center stage.

Christian Youth Theater

Various locations 913.681.3318 $ www.CYTKC.org CYT is an after-school theater arts program for children ages 5-18.

City Theatre of Independence

201 N. Dodgion, Indep, MO 816.325.7370 $ D3 www.CityTheatreOfIndependence.org Live community theater for all ages includes children’s shows.

ComedyCity

3600 Broadway, Suite 107, KC, MO 816.842.2744 $ C3 www.ComedyCity.cc Improv comedy shows are geared for the entire family. Check schedule for show descriptions.

Coterie Theatre

Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., Suite 144, KC, MO 816.474.6552 $ C3 www.CoterieTheatre.org The Coterie, a professional Equity theater, is among the top five theaters serving families and young audiences in the United States, according to TIME magazine.

The Culture House

Various performance locations 14808 W. 117th St., Olathe, KS 913.393.3141 $ A5 www.CultureHouse.com The entire family can enjoy live theater, dance and musical performances.

Dramatic Truth Ballet

10510 Grandview Rd., KC, MO 816.767.9222 $ C4 www.DramaticTruth.org Local Christian ballet troupe performs live shows for the whole family.

Gem Theater

1616 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.474.8463 $$ C3 www.AmericanJazzMuseum.com The Gem Theater features everything from films and live theater productions to dynamic live jazz performances.

Jewish Community Center of Greater KC

5801 W. 115th St., Suite 101, OP, KS 913.327.8000 $$ B5 www.JCCKC.org Live theater and music performances entertain the whole family.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.994.7200 $$ C3 www.KauffmanCenter.org Home to resident organizations the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera, Kansas City Symphony and other innovative programming.

Excelsior Springs Community Theatre

Kansas City Ballet

Folly Theater 300 W. 12th St., KC, MO 816.474.4444 $$ C3 www.FollyTheater.com Live theater and music performances entertain at this venue.

KC Chamber Orchestra

Various performance locations in Excelsior Springs, Richmond and Liberty, MO. 816.637.3728 $ D1 www.ESCTheatre.org Live community theater for all ages includes children’s shows.

Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity: 500 W. Pershing, KC, MO Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.931.2232 $$ C3 www.KCBallet.org The KC Ballet performs shows throughout the year.

Various performance locations 816.960.1324 $$ C3 www.KCChamberOrchestra.org Classical music is performed by KC’s chamber orchestra.

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SHOWTIME

SHOWTIME

SHOWTIME

KC Friends of Alvin Ailey

1714 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.471.6003 $$ C3 www.KCFAA.org Professional dance group features ballet, modern and jazz dance.

KC Repertory Theatre

4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.2700 $$ C3 www.KCRep.org The premier professional resident theater company of Kansas City, MO, founded in 1964. .

KC Starlight Theatre

4600 Starlight Dr., KC, MO 816.363.7827 $$ C3 www.KCStarlight.com Get into the spirit with starry nights, great food and the best Broadway entertainment in Kansas City each summer.

KC Symphony

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.0400 $$ C3 www.KCSymphony.org Enjoy professional live classical symphony. The symphony’s Family Series is especially popular with KC kids, as it features fun holiday music and familiar favorites.

KC Young Audiences

5601 Wyandotte, KC, MO 816.531.4022 $ C3 www.KCYA.org Live music, dance, drama and poetry entertain patrons ages 5 and up.

Lee’s Summit Symphony

Lee’s Summit High School: 400 SE Blue Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.401.5251 $ D4 www.LSSymphony.org Classical symphony entertains with live performances for the community.

Liberty Performing Arts Theatre

1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4362 $$ D1 www.LPAT.org The entire family can enjoy live theater performances.

Lied Center of Kansas

1600 Stewart Dr., Lawrence, KS 785.864.2787 $ A3 http://lied.ku.edu/ Celebrating 20 years as the performing arts center at the University of Kansas, featuring world famous live entertainment with theater, concerts and shows.

Lyric Opera

www.KCOpera.org Attend live professional performances.

opera

Martin City Melodrama

Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 913.642.7576 $ B4 www.MartinCityMelodrama.org Live Vaudeville-style theater is sure to leave the entire family laughing!

Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre

3614 Main, KC, MO 816.569.3226 $ C3 http://MetKC.org Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre is a not-for-profit professional theater providing a full season of shows for the public.

Midland Theatre

1228 Main St., KC, MO 816.283.9900 $$ C3 www.MidlandKC.com Live theater, concerts and other performances entertain guests.

Miller-Marley School of Dance

10448 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.492.0004 $ www.MillerMarley.com Local youth offer live performances.

B3 dance

The Murder Mystery Co.

Stanford and Sons: 7328 W. 119th St., OP, KS www.grimprov.com $$ C3 Show includes three-course meal and interactive murder mystery show.

Music Hall

301 W. 13th St., KC, MO 816.513.5000 $$ C3 www.KCConvention.com Host to live theater in Kansas City since 1936, this facility is known for bringing world-class shows and entertainment.

Musical Theater Heritage

Crown Center: 2450 Grand, KC, MO 816.221.6987 $ C3 www.MusicalTheaterHeritage.com MTH presents classic musical theater and revue performances.

Mystery Comedy Dinner Playhouse

Various Locations, KC, MO 816.333.5999 $$ C3 www.MysteryComedy.com Live mystery comedy theater is performed at various locations in KC.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.4933 $$ C3 64 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Mystery Train

Various Locations 816.813.9654 $$ C3 www.KCMysteryTrain.com Interactive mystery dinner theater enjoyed by teens and adults.

New Theatre Restaurant

9229 Foster St., OP, KS 913.649.7469 $$ B4 www.NewTheatre.com Live dinner theater features famous stars in each performance.

Northland Symphony Orchestra

Park Hill South High School: 4500 NW River Park Dr., Riverside, MO Oak Park High School: 825 NE 79th Ter., KC, MO 816.316.0477 $ B2 www.NorthlandSymphony.org Enjoy notable symphony performances.

Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park

7710 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.236.1237 $ A4 www.TheatreInThePark.org Live outdoor theater is performed for the entire family every summer.

Sprint Center

1407 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.949.7100 $$ C3 www.SprintCenter.com Multi-use indoor arena in the Power & Light District.

StoneLion Puppet Theatre

Various Locations 816.221.5351 $ www.StoneLionPuppets.org Live puppet shows are tailored for children.

Storybook Theatre

Various Locations 913.669.3388 Free-$ B3 www.OlatheCivicBand.org Live musical performances for the community.

Various locations: Lee’s Summit area 816.204.5702 $ D4 http://AGDT.blogspot.com Storybook Theatre is aimed at girls ages 8-12, and a teen class for girls 13 and older. Public performances are held seasonally.

Olathe Civic Theatre

Theatre for Young America

Olathe Civic Band

500 E. Loula, Olathe, KS 913.782.2990 $$ B4 www.OlatheTheatre.org Live community theater is produced for the entire family.

Paul Mesner Puppets

Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2083 $ C3 www.TYA.org Theatre for Young America provides family shows all year.

1006 Linwood Blvd., KC, MO 816.756.3500 $ C3 www.PaulMesnerPuppets.org Puppet shows offered all year to delight young audiences! Audiences from 3 to 93 will enjoy these performances sure to make children laugh.

Trilogy Cultural Arts Centre

Piccadilly Puppets Various Locations 913.837.3544 $ www.Piccadilly-Puppets.com Touring puppet company performs shows across the KC metro area.

UMKC Conservatory of Music

Puppetry Arts Institute

11025 E. Winner Rd., Indep, MO 816.833.9777 $ D3 www.Hazelle.org Enjoy puppet shows, make your own puppets and tour the museum.

Quality Hill Playhouse 303 W. 10th St., KC, MO 816.421.1700 $$ C3 www.QualityHillPlayhouse.com Live music concerts range from classical to jazz.

12480 S. Blackbob, Olathe, KS 913.254.4444 $ A5 www.TrilogyCulturalArts.com Live theater, dance and musical performances are produced for the entire family.

James C. Olson Performing Arts Center: 4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.2900 $$ C3 www.Conservatory.UMKC.edu Live musical performances entertain the entire family.

UMKC Theatre

4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.6222 $$ C3 www.UMKC.edu/Theatre UMKC college students offer live theater performances.

Youth Symphony of KC Various performance locations 5960 Dearborn, Suite 206, Mission, KS 913.722.6810 $$ B3 www.YouthSymphonyKC.org Area youth offer live classical music performances.

FESTIVAL CITY Capital Events

Sunflower Music Festival Food Truck Festival Kansas KidsFest Wheatstock TAP THAT - Brew Fest KANSAS, Urban Slide, Etc. Spirit Of Kansas Railroad Festival

June 10-18 June 11 June 18 June 24-25 June 25 July 2 July 4 July 9

Exciting events are always happening in Topeka, Kansas! Stay up to date and discover Topeka’s new favorite festivals and upcoming events at Topeka365.com.

Plan your vist now.

VisitTopeka.com/Events 785-234-1030

Fiesta Mexicana Shawnee County Fair Cyclovia Topeka Crusin’ The Capital Car Show Intertribal Pow Wow Huff N’ Puff Kansas Mariachi Festival Kansas Top Con Kansas Chocolate Festival

July 12-16 July 21-24 July 29-30 Aug. 13 Sept. 2-4 Sept. 9-11 Sept. 16-17 Sept 16-18 Sept. 24

from our

acebook fans

We asked our readers: “You have out-of-town visitors in the spring or summer... what Kansas City hot spots are on your must-see list?”

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KansasCityParent/ Megan Swalwell Hewitt: We love going to Crown Center and walking over the Link to Union Station.

The model trains at Union Station are a big hit.

Andrea Chapman: Paddle boats/ canoeing at Shawnee Mission Park!

Helen Saga: The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is on our bucket list. They tell the history of growing up.

Kim Slater: The Kansas City Zoo, KC Northern Railroad (kids love to show off the miniature railroad), Kauffman Stadium, Cabela’s and picnic at Smithville Lake.

Megan Miller Day: Downtown Lee’s Summit shopping and a stop at The W. Hannah Janell Banerjee: City Market for sure, the grounds of the Nelson-Atkins Museum and National WWI Museum.

Brandy Romero: Our must-sees: The K for a Royals game, the zoo, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and some barbecue (usually Z-mans for everyone at Joe’s KC).

Shannon Dorsey: River Market, first Fridays entertainment and shopping, the K, Joe’s Kansas City Barbecue.

Emily Wilson: We go to the Missouri State Fair for the live shows, delicious food and carnival rides.

Jim Shrader: Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue in Martin City! Crown prime is memorable.

Margaret Sarver: We have so many great locations for outdoor concerts, from largescale shows at Starlight to smaller venues like Crossroads. We love to see live music outdoors during the summer.

Jennifer Thompson: Ride the new streetcar!

Katie Hubbard: Kansas City Zoo if cool, a show at Starlight, Sea Life, a game at the K if no peanut allergies, if not too hot Planet Snoopy at Worlds of Fun, Science City. Those are some of our favorites.

66 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Julia Willhite: Boulevard tour after they open their expansion!

Stephenie Menefee-Hudson: We love taking visitors to City Market.

Dana Boman: Tour the Nelson-Atkins before dinner on the Plaza, catch a Royals game on fireworks Friday, head to Crossroads for first Friday, go out to the Legends area.

Elena Maria Pacheco: Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. All of my family love it!

Kristina Light: Celebration at Kansas City’s Union Station would be a must! We’re also excited to try the new zip line at Swope Park and visit the koalas at the Kansas City Zoo! Sarah Marie Diddle: Burr Oak Woods and the different libraries in town!

Raina Virginia Lupton: River Market.

Rachel Woods: Take in a T-Bones game!

Sara Reser Keenan: Our summer must-do’s: A baseball game at the K, Celebration at the Station on Memorial Day weekend, the Airline Museum at the Downtown Airport (it’s air-conditioned!), aerial tram at the zoo, Starlight, a day at Crown Center (Sea Life, Kaleidoscope, lunch at Fritz’s)...just a few of the things we do every summer!

MOST FUN EVER! Breakout Kansas City is a brand new entertainment game in Downtown Kansas City’s River Market.

Your goal is simple: you have 60 minutes to breakout from one of our real life escape rooms by cracking codes, solving riddles, and more!

KC PARENT FAMILY FUN ZONE Located next to Town Hall Saturday 12:00pm – 6:00pm Sunday 12:00pm – 5:00pm TONS of FREE Children’s Activities and Performances

THURSDAY, JUNE 2 – SUNDAY, JUNE 5

BreakOutKC.com 816.945.2633

SHAWNEE TOWN 1929 | 11600 JOHNSON DRIVE, SHAWNEE, KS

OLDSHAWNEEDAYS.ORG

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all about

kansastrivia city 14. ACROSS PHOTO HINT: This statue commemorating KC jazz great Charlie appears at 18th & Vine.

ACROSS

DOWN

5 Kansas City has more than 200 of these, more than any other city except Rome.

1 The Kansas City Royals won the 2015 World Series in Game

7 The Country Club Plaza was influenced by the classical architecture of this city.

9 The nation’s largest greeting card company, headquartered in Kansas City.

10

O’Neil was the first African-American coach in Major League Baseball.

15 This park is 1,805 acres large and is almost 1,000 acres larger than New York’s Central Park.

Across: 5) Fountains 7) Seville 9) Hallmark 10) Buck 14) Parker 15) Swope Down: 1) Five 2) Koalas 3) Sudeikis 4) Mighty Mo 6) Truman 8) Verrückt 11) Paris 12) Mamba 13) Come

68 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

2 These furry friends from Australia will be visiting the Kansas City Zoo this summer.

3 This Overland Park native is a famous comedian, having written for SNL and appeared on television and in films.

4 Nickname for the Missouri River.

6 The 33rd president of the United States and an Independence, MO, native.

8 This tallest water slide in the world is at home at Schlitterbahn.

11 “ of the Plains,” is a Kansas City nickname because the city has more boulevards than any other city except .

12 The tallest roller coaster at Worlds of Fun. 13 “Kansas City, Kansas City here I

.”

.

8/31/16

8/31/16

SPORTS

SPORTS unique locally-made kansas city sports souvenirs If you are a diehard Kansas City sports fan, you know you can pick up some great souvenirs at the K, Arrowhead or Children’s Mercy Park. But if you are looking for a unique KC sports souvenir from a locally-owned company, here are some ideas for the whole family!

Farmdog Studios

Farmdog Studios has a variety of unique and artistic products for your home or office, including these KC sports-themed wooden bricks and pillows. The bricks are an affordable $20, and you can choose from baseball, football or soccer themes. Pillow covers are $35 ($50 with pillow insert) and are available in baseball or football themes. Find these and other great Kansas City home goods and apparel at www.farmdogstudios. com or local shops 5B & Co., Stick Sisters in Hawthorne Plaza or at Made in KC.

The Derrick

Sock101

Another local company, Sock 101, features distinctive socks for men, women and children. In addition to the Crowned Tin Pack ($35) to show your Royals pride, the Derrick ($12) for Chiefs fans, and the Peter ($12) for Sporting KC supporters, Sock101 has many different styles and colors representing local professional and college teams. Check out their designs and gift packs at www.sock101.com and many local retailers.

Crowned Tin Pack

The Night the World Turned Royal Blue

The Peter

The little Royals fan in your life needs a copy of the book The Night the World Turned Royal Blue, by Jason Sivewright. Parents and kids alike will love this retelling of the 2014 wild card game with its beautiful illustrations and clever rhymes. Look for a sequel featuring the 2015 season, too! You can purchase this book at many online bookstores, as well as locally at Made in KC

70 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Based in Kansas City, MO, Freelance Clothing features super soft t-shirts with simple and artistic designs. Check out the Crown, the Shield and the Arrowhead shirts for the whole family, ranging in price from $24 to $42. You can find their line of Kansas City-themed apparel at www.freelanceclothing.com or at a few local shops, including Made in KC and the Garment District.

5B & Co. Candlemakers

This charming candle shop located in Brookside pours their own candles and features more than 175 scents and a variety of gifts and décor for the home. Royals fans will want to check out the “Be Royal” votives that feature a leather glove and grass turf scent. The Chiefs fan should pick up their barbecue-scented red and gold candles! Check them out at www.5bandcobrookside.com

KC Swagger Moose Onesie ($30)

Made in KC

For more locally made Kansas City sports souvenirs and products, visit Made in KC at one of their two locations (Prairiefire and Briarcliff) or online at madeinkc.co. In addition to many of the products featured here, you will find more than 60 different local artists and makers represented, including the sellers of these cute coasters and adorable Moose onesie.

KC Coaster Set by Coasters to Coasters ($30)

Sara Keenan lives in Brookside with her family, where she proudly cheers on the Royals and enjoys shopping locally.

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SPORTS

Freelance Clothing

SPORTS

CoCo Key Water Resort

Adam’s Mark Hotel & Conference Center: 9103 E. 39th St., KC, MO 816.737.0200 $$ C3 www.CocoKeyKansasCity.com The 55,000-square-foot indoor water park features wading pool with slides for little swimmers, water slides, fast tube ride and activity pools.

Gladstone Community Center

6901 N. Holmes St., KC, MO 816.423.4200 $ C2 www.Gladstone.mo.us

Great Wolf Lodge Black Bob Bay

SPORTS

KC Bowl

Retro Bowl

Legend: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4)

8201 State Ave., KC, KS 913.299.1110 $ A3 www.KCBowl.com

Lunar Bowl

906 W. Liberty Dr., Liberty, MO 816.781.1998 $ D2 www.RetroBowlFunCenter.com This location also offers batting cages, billiards and more.

KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 17 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Bowling Aaron’s Family Fun Center

17070 Aaron Ln., Belton, MO 816.322.0488 $ C5 www.AaronsFamilyFunCenter.com

AMF

Strike ‘N Spare Lanes: 13001 E. 40 Hwy., Indep, MO 816.356.1900 $ D3 Pro Bowl Lanes: 505 E. 18th Ave., KC, MO (This location also offers miniature golf.)

816.221.8844 $ C3 College Lanes: 10201 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.451.6400 $ B4 www.AMF.com

Diamond Bowl 218 N. Osage St., Indep, MO 816.252.8003 $ D3 www.Diamond-Bowl.com

Gladstone Bowl

2001 NW 7 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.220.7722 $ D3 www.LunarBowl.com

Mission Bowl ‘N Olathe 1020 S. Weaver St., Olathe, KS 913.782.0279 $ A5 http://missionbowl.com/ Second location coming soon.

Olathe Lanes East 303 N. Lindenwood Dr., Olathe, KS 913.764.4568 $ A5 www.OLEast.com

Park Lanes Family Fun Center 7701 Renner Rd., Shwn Msn, KS 913.248.1110 $ A4 www.ParkLanesKC.com

Pinstripes 13500 Nall Ave., OP, KS 913.681.2255 $ B5 www.Pinstripes.com In addition to bowling, enjoy bocce and bistro.

Premier Bowling & Recreation Center 11400 E. 350 Hwy., Raytown, MO 816.356.5955 $ C3 www.PremierBowl.com

Ranch Bowl 5604 State Ave., KC, KS 913.287.6000 $ A2 www.RanchBowlKC.com

300 NW 72nd St., Gladstone, MO 816.436.2695 $ C2 www.GladstoneBowl.com 72 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Sterling Bowl 11216 US 24, Sugar Creek, MO 816.252.2111 $ D3 www.SterlingBowl.com

Strikerz Entertainment Center 18900 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 816.313.5166 $ D3 www.Strikerz.com Bowling and arcade.

10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 913.299.7001 $$ A3 www.GreatWolf.com Enjoy a four-story interactive tree house, winding lazy river and numerous water slides.

Harrisonville Recreation Center

2400 Jefferson Pkwy., Harrisonville, MO 816.380.8980 $ C5 www.CI.Harrisonville.MO.us

Henley Aquatic Center

18200 E. MO 78 Hwy., Indep, MO 816.521.5377 $ D3 www4.Indep.k12.mo.us/Henley/

Jewish Community Center of Greater KC

Summit Lanes

5801 W. 115th St., OP, KS 913.327.8000 $ B5 www.JCCKC.org

803 SW Oldham Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.3322 $ D4 www.SummitLanes.com

KC MO Parks & Rec Community Centers with Indoor Pools

Ward Parkway Lanes

1523 W. 89th St., KC, MO 816.363.2700 $ C3 www.WardParkwayLanes.com

Indoor Pools Belton Parks Community Center

16400 N. Mullen Rd., Belton, MO 816.348.7400 $ C5 www.BeltonParks.org

Blue Valley Rec Aquatic Center

6545 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.685.6000 $ B5 www.BlueValleyRec.org

Centennial Pool Plex

2401 NW Ashton Dr., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0188 $ D4 www.funattheblue.com

Gregg/Klice Community Center: 1600 John “Buck” O’Neil Way, KC, MO 816.784.1135 $ C3 Southeast Community Center: 4201 E. 63rd St., KC, MO 816.513.0631 $ C3 Tony Aguirre Community Center: 2050 W. Pennway, KC, MO 816.784.1300 $ C3 www.KCMO.org

KC YMCA Locations with Indoor Pools

www.KansasCityYMCA.org Atchison Family YMCA: 321 Commercial, Atchison, KS 913.367.4948 $ A1 Blue Springs Family YMCA: 2251 S. 138th St., Blue Springs, MO 816.224.9620 $ D4 Bonner Springs Family YMCA: 410 N. Bluegrass Dr., # B, Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.9348 $ A2

Legacy Park Community Center 901 NE Bluestem Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1550 $ D4 www.CityOfLS.net

Liberty MO Community Center 1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ D2 www.CI.Liberty.MO.us

8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 $ B4 www.OPKansas.org

M

Adventure Oasis Water Park

1205 E. Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 913.971.8563 $-$$ A5 www.olatheks.org/parksrec/olathe communitycenter

2100 S. Hub Dr., Indep, MO 816.325.7946 $-$$ D3 www.ci.Independence.mo.us Adventure Oasis is a water park with three water slides, a 6,000-squarefoot pool with zero-depth entry, water play structure, lap pool and a relaxing 900-foot lazy river.

Park Hill Aquatic Center

The Bay Water Park

Olathe Community Center and Stagecoach Park

8152 N. Congress Ave., KC, MO 816.359.4080 $ B1 www.Parkhill.K12.MO.us

Roeland Park Aquatic Center 4843 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park, KS 913.432.1377 $ B3 www.RoelandPark.net

Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center 6200 Martway St., Shwn Msn, KS 913.722.8200 $ B3 www.SylvesterPowell.com

The View

13500 Byars Rd., Grandview, MO 816.316.4888 $ C5 www.Grandview.org

tg-brand-ads-7.4x4.85-family-young-o_park.pdf

C

Outdoor Pools and Water Parks

Matt Ross Community Center

1

4/7/16

7101 Longview Rd., KC, MO 816.965.9218 $ C4 www.TheBayKC.com Brand new $7 million facility with a zero-entry pool, lap pool, lazy river and water slides.

Black Bob Bay

14570 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.971.5345 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org Features include raft water slides, a lazy river, shallow water play structures, a dive well, a 50-meter pool and a baby pool.

Bluejacket Pool 10101 Bond, OP, KS 913.327.5671 www.OPKansas.org

$-$$

B3

Features include a 15-foot-tall water slide, 3-meter and 1-meter diving boards and zero-depth entry youth pool with a dolphin waterslide.

Blue Springs Centennial Pool Plex

2401 NW Ashton Dr., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0188 $-$$ D3 www.funattheblue.com The complex sports three pools: an indoor pool (year-round), an 8-lane 50-meter outdoor pool that features high-speed water slides, and an outdoor wading pool.

Bonner Springs Aquatic Park

1200 S. 134th St., Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.7011 $ A3 www.BonnerSprings.org The aquatic park features a zero-depth entry pool, 2.5-meter lap pool, floatable pods, water playground, diving boards, water slides and basketball goal.

Fairway Swimming Pool

62nd & Mission Rd., Fairway, KS 913.722.3161 $ B3 www.FairwayKansas.org This location features a pool with two designated lap lanes, high and low diving boards, an 11-foot slide and a fenced 12-inch deep wading pool for toddlers to play.

10:23 AM

TRUST US. NO ONE’S CHECKED THEIR PHONE EVEN ONCE. It’s easy to be “the fun parents.”

Y

CM

MY

CY

Just take your kids to Topgolf.

Menu and pricing information available at Topgolf.com.

CMY

K

10611 Nall Avenue • Overland Park, KS • 913.562.9713 GREAT FOOD, POOL TABLES, INTERACTIVE VIDEO GAMES, GIANT JENGA & MUCH MORE

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Miami County Family YMCA: 300 11th St., Osawatomie, KS 913.755.3622 $ A5 Olathe Family YMCA: 21400 W. 153rd St., Olathe, KS 913.393.9622 $ A5 Paul Henson Family YMCA: 4200 W. 79th St., Prairie Village, KS 913.642.6800 $ B4 Platte County Comm Center North: 3101 Running Horse, Platte City, MO 816.858.0114 $ A1 Platte County Comm Center South: 8875 Clark Ave., Parkville, MO 816.505.2622 $ B2 Providence YMCA/Ball Family Center: 8601 Parallel Pkwy., KC, KS 913.378.9622 $ A2 Red Bridge Family YMCA: 11300 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.942.2020 $ C5

SPORTS

25 Ways

to make the Most of Summer in Lee’s Summit, Missouri

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Spend a day exploring the Historic Downtown Lee’s Summit District with many unique shops and restaurants, all nestled in a six-block area.

Enjoy a tea party at Henry’s Antiques and Tea Room.

Learn new cooking techniques from local chefs at A Thyme for Everything.

Make your own ceramic masterpiece at Potter’s Haven.

Watch butterflies in the garden at Lowenstein Park.

Race your family in go-karts at Paradise Park.

Rent a paddleboat at Lake Jacomo.

Step back in time at Missouri Town 1855.

Eat barbecue at an old-fashioned gas station when you dine at the Filling Station.

Share a banana split at Poppy’s Ice Cream Parlor.

Learn local history inside a depot at the Lee’s Summit Historical Society.

Take a painting class at the Got Art Gallery.

Play in the sprayground at Miller J. Fields Park.

Float in the lazy river at Summit Waves.

Pretend to be a fireman on the themed playground at Bryan C. Pottberg Park.

Create your own stained glass work of art at Stained Glass Station.

Shop the day away at Summit Fair.

Climb the ropes course at Lea McKeighan Park.

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Explore the Lee’s Summit Historic Cemetery, the final resting place for early Lee’s Summit citizens and the Civil War guerilla Cole Younger.

Build a custom frozen yogurt sundae at Orange Leaf.

Longview Lake

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Feed the fish at Longview Marina.

Roller-skate at Landmark Skate.

Taste wine at Stonehaus Farms.

Ride Amtrak at the Lee’s Summit Depot.

Go bowling at Summit Lanes.

74 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

Frontier Pool

15909 W. 127th St., Olathe, KS 913.971.5349 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org/ParksRec Features include a water slide, zerodepth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.

Gardner Aquatic Park

Cornerstone Park, 215 N. Center, Gardner, KS 913.856.0962 $ B5 www.GardnerKansas.gov/pool Special amenities include zero-depth entry, an active in-water play area, lazy river, multiple water slides, floatable walk, climbing nets, spraygrounds and a tot pool.

Gladstone Municipal Pool

Central Park: 7011 N. Holmes, Gladstone, MO 816.436.2299 $ C2 www.Gladstone.mo.us This pool features zero-depth entry, sprayground, dumping bucket, open flume slide and a drop slide.

Grain Valley Aquatic Center

713 Main St., Grain Valley, MO 816.847.6230 $ D3 www.CityofGrainValley.org Features include a zero-depth entry pool and water slides. Swim lessons are offered also.

KC Watersports

25825 Edgemore Rd., Paola, KS 913.783.4300 $ A3 www.kcwatersports.com KC Watersports is the best wakeboarding destination in the Midwest.

KCMO Parks & Rec Outdoor Pools

Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd., KC, MO 816.513.0730 $ C3 Budd Park: Budd Park Esplanade & Denver Ave., KC, MO 816.784.2600 $ C3 Grove Park Pool: Truman Rd. & Benton Blvd., KC, MO 816.784.2500 $ C3 Swope Park Pool: 6700 Lewis Rd., KC, MO 816.513.8915 $ C3 www.KCMO.org Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at Kansas City’s Parks & Rec pools.

Leawood Aquatic Center

10601 Lee Blvd., Leawood, KS 913.327.3977 $-$$ B3 www.Leawood.org Olympic size 50-meter pool, with youth pool, fountains and slides.

Lenexa Parks and Rec Outdoor Pools

Ad Astra Pool: 83rd & Maurer Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.492.7946 $ B3 Flat Rock Creek Pool: 103rd & Hauser, Lenexa, KS 913.888.3202 $ B3 Indian Trails Aquatic Center: 87th & Greenway Ln., Lenexa, KS 913.888.4659 $ B3 www.ci.Lenexa.ks.us Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at Lenexa’s pools.

Liberty Community Center Pools

1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ D1 www.ci.Liberty.mo.us This location boasts two outdoor pools, including a children’s fountain pool and two indoor pools.

Marty Pool

7405 Conser, OP, KS 913.327.5672 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features a youth pool, fountains, a tropical fish slide, sand area, a main pool with a zero-depth entry and water slide.

Merriam Aquatic Center

6040 Slater, Merriam, KS 913.322.5518 $$ B3 www.Merriam.org The center features zero-depth (beach entry) pool, a variety of slides for all ages, pulsating water jets, water riders, spray toys and a 50-meter pool.

Mill Creek Pool

320 E. Poplar, Olathe, KS 913.971.5337 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org The pool features a water slide, zerodepth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.

Mission Family Aquatic Center

5930 W. 61st St., Mission, KS 913.722.4590 $-$$ B3 www.missionks.org This large outdoor pool also has an additional kiddie pool.

 FEATURED LISTING Oceans of Fun See ad on pg. 29.

4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 www.WorldsOfFun.com Kansas City’s outdoor water park with twisting inner tube slides and Buccaneer Bay with kayaks and canoes.

Now, Worlds of Fun offers more value than ever by combining both Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun to a one-ticket

Oregon Trail Pool

1750 W. Dennis, Olathe, KS 913.971.5348 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org Features include a water slide, zerodepth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.

Parkwood Swimming Pool

950 Quindaro Blvd., KC, KS 913.551.0402 $ B2 www.WYCoKCK.org With daily admission at $1/day, this is one of the most affordable pools in the metro.

Prairie Village Pool Complex

7711 Delmar, Prairie Village, KS 913.385.4650 $ B3 www.PVKansas.com The complex features two water slides and the plunge pool, zero-depth entrances to the leisure and wading pools, large pool deck area, tubing, lap pool and therapeutic whirlpool.

Riverside Community Center Pool

4498 NW High Dr., Riverside, MO 816.741.4172 $ B2 www.RiversideMO.com The 3,750-square-foot pool features a zero-depth entrance for the little ones, diving boards for the bigger kids and a splash and play area for everyone.

Roeland Park Aquatic Center

4843 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park, KS 913.432.1377 $ B3 www.RoelandPark.net Features include a 50-meter inverted “C”-shaped pool with a 25-yard by 25-meter competitive area, a dive well, an inflatable slide, four 50-meter lap lanes and a children’s area.

Roe Pool

10400 Roe, Overland Park, KS 913.327.5673 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Roe has water depths ranging from 3 feet, 6 inches to 12 feet. It also has a small slide, water rock climbing wall, 1-meter diving board and youth pool.

 FEATURED LISTING Schlitterbahn Waterpark See ad on pg. 78.

9400 State Ave., KC, KS 913.312.3110 $$ A3 www.Schlitterbahn.com Schlitterbahn is Kansas City’s only river tubing adventure. With over a mile of interconnected river, it’s like going on a float trip inside the 40-acre waterpark

featuring water slides, a lazy river, pools and tube chutes end-to-end. Enjoy the park’s many record-breaking rides and attractions, including the all new, tallest waterslide in the world, Verrückt. Visitors enjoy free parking, free tubes, free lifejackets, and picnics are welcome inside the park. 

FREE Spraygrounds

Splash Cove

5800 King Ave., Shawnee, KS 913.631.7177 $-$$ B4 www.CityOfShawnee.org Splash Cove features a mini wave pool, 125-foot full body slide, interactive playground features, instructional pool, WiFi access and a party cabana.

Super Splash USA

5330 Raytown Rd., Raytown, MO 816.356.5300 $$ C3 www.SuperSplashUSA.com Whether you’re looking for thrills or just want to catch some rays, Super Splash has something for everyone.

Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center

13805 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.631.0054 $ A4 www.CityOfShawnee.org Features an 8-lane, 50-meter pool, diving boards, two body slides, a lazy river, vortex, interactive aquatic features, enclosed baby pool area with water playground.

John Anderson Sprayground in Grandview Spraygrounds are water playgrounds where children can run and play through sprinklers and sprays on a safe surface. This is a fantastic, fun, FREE way to cool off on a hot summer day. Spraygrounds are open Memorial Day - Labor Day across the metro!

Kansas City, MO Spraygrounds:

11950 Lowell, OP, KS 913.327.5675 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features a zero-depth entry, cooling fountains, diving boards, a 60-footlong family slide and a twisting slide, 25-meter lap lane, youth pool and a large sand area for playing.

• Harmony Park: E. 10th St. & Agnes Ave. • Jacob L. Loose Park: W. 52nd Ter. & Summit Ave. (Closed Wednesdays) • Sunnyside Park: W. 83rd St. & Summit Ave. • Longview Tract: 7107 Longview Rd. • Golden Oaks Park: NE 46th St. & N. Antioch Rd. • Garrison Square: E. 4th St. & Forest Ave. • Central Park: Linwood Blvd. & Bales Ave. • Nelson C. Crews Park: E. 27th St. & Michigan Ave. • Douglass Playground at Grace Williams Nicholl Park: 2632 Jarboe St. • Zona Rosa: I-29 & Barry Rd.

The Springs Aquatic Center

Independence, MO Spraygrounds:

Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center

9400 N. Congress Ave., KC, MO 816.880.0279 $ B2 http://thespringskc.com/ Two water slides, a lazy river with a vortex, two splash playgrounds, a zero-depth entry pool with play features and an Olympic size 50-meter competitive pool.

Stonegate Pool

9701 Antioch, OP, KS 913.327.5674 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features include a 22-foot-high spiral water slide, a 1-meter diving board, a youth pool with fountain features, a 25-meter lap lane and more than 25 feet of zero-depth area.

• McCoy Park: 24 Hwy. & N. Delaware • Rotary Park: 24th & Hardy

Lee’s Summit, MO Spraygrounds: • Miller J. Fields Park: 1301 SE 3rd Ter.

Grandview, MO Spraygrounds: • John Anderson Park: 4701 E. 135th St.

Liberty, MO Spraygrounds: • City Park: 970 S. Hwy. 291 • Ruth Moore Park: 401 N. Morse

Kansas City, KS Spraygrounds: • Eisenhower Park: 2901 N. 72nd St. • Heathwood Park: 10th & Parallel Pkwy.

• Pierson Park: 1800 S. 55th St.

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SPORTS

admission. Every guest will have access to 235 acres of rides, shows and attractions, complete with a massive water park. 

SPORTS

25 Ways

to Make the Most of Summer in Kansas City, Kansas 1 Dine with a dinosaur at T-Rex Café.

2 Explore where Lewis & Clark camped at Kaw Point Riverfront Park.

3 Plunge down the world’s tallest waterside, Verrückt, at Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark.

4 Get a bird’s eye view of Kansas City at Adventure Zip KC. 5 View life-size mule deer at Cabela’s.

6 Attend a Kansas City T-Bones game.

7 Honor America’s farmers at the National Agricultural

8

Center and Hall of Fame.

Shake paws with Wiley the Wolf after you spend the night at Great Wolf Lodge.

Summit Waves

Smiley’s Golf

120 SW Blue Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1545 $-$$ C3 www.CityOfLS.net Features a 904-foot action river, body slide, tube slide, 6-lane lap pool with diving boards, a water playground area featuring mini-slides and more.

10195 Monticello Ter., Lenexa, KS 913.782.1323 $ B4 www.SmileysGolf.com Outdoor miniature golf features beautiful gardens and fun hazards.

Young’s Pool

Drop Zone Paintball

8421 W. 77th St., OP, KS 913.327.5676 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Overland Park’s only Olympic size pool, and a 200-foot flume body slide, diving boards, zero-depth pool with fountains, and youth pool with slides.

Miniature Golf Aaron’s Family Fun Center 17070 Aaron’s Ln., Belton, MO 816.322.0488 $ C5 www.AaronsFamilyFunCenter.com Play outdoor miniature golf and enjoy indoor bowling, outdoor go-karts and volleyball.

Cool Crest

Legends Outlets

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Learn about famous Kansans with a free audio tour at Legends Outlets and skip down the yellow brick road there.

10 Eat alligator at Jazz, a Louisiana Kitchen.

11 Watch a Sporting Kansas City game at Sporting Park.

12 Hear the famous “Hi, may I help you?” at Gates Bar-B-Q. 13 Discover the piano that “saw” President Abraham Lincoln assassinated at the Piano Technicians Guild Museum.

14 Live your dream of being a NASCAR driver at the

Richard Petty Driving Experience at Kansas Speedway.

15 Enjoy Cosmic Bowling at KC Bowl.

16 Sleep in a shipwreck at Chateau Avalon Hotel & Spa. 17 Go on a nature walk at F.L. Schlagle Environmental Library.

18 At 13th & Ruby in Argentine, see the only street in Kansas that is made of stairs.

19 Spend a Friday night at Lakeside Speedway.

20 Tour the state’s oldest farmhouse at Grinter Place.

21 Enjoy a movie at Boulevard Drive-In. 22 Soothe your soul with tea and povitica bread at 23 24 25

Strawberry Hill Museum.

Learn about the history of Quindaro at the Quindaro Underground Railroad Museum.

Let the kids play on the largest playground in Kansas City, KS, at Wyandotte County Lake.

Shop till you drop at Nebraska Furniture Mart.

76 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2016

10735 E. US Hwy. 40, Indep, MO 816.358.0088 $ D3 www.CoolCrest.com Four full 18-hole miniature golf courses, a 7,000-square-foot video game arcade, a full pizzeria and restaurant, go-karts, batting cages and more!

Family Golf Park 1501 NE 40 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.1550 $ D3 www.FamilyGolfPark.com Outdoor miniature golf, arcade, bumper boats and party facilities.

Howl-in-One Mini Golf Great Wolf Lodge: 10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 913.299.7001 $ A3 www.GreatWolfLodge.com Outdoor miniature golf.

Parkville Mini Golf 7 W. 1st St., Parkville, MO 816.505.9555 $ B2 www.ParkvilleMiniGolf.com Outdoor miniature golf course is set on the Missouri River bluffs.

Power Play 13110 W. 62nd Ter., Shawnee, KS 913.268.4386 $ B3 www.PowerPlayKC.com Cosmic bowling, arcade games, whirly ball and more.

Paintball 1224 N. 1st Rd., Overbrook, KS 785.841.1884 $ A3 www.DropZonePaintball.com Outdoor paintball fields offer excitement.

High Performance Paintball

1500 Sandy Links Ln., Harrisonville, MO 816.868.5675 $ C5 http://highperformancepaintball.net Outdoor paintball field with 10+ acres and three varying paintball fields and terrain.

Jaegers Paintball Park

9300 NE Underground Dr., KC, MO 816.452.6600 $ C2 www.Jaegers.com Underground paintball field and laser tag is set in one of KC’s oldest limestone mines.

Martin City Paintball

13501 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.885.2134 $ C5 www.martincitypaintball.com Six unique outdoor paintball fields.

Pro, Semi-Pro & College Sports KC Chiefs

Arrowhead Stadium: 1 Arrowhead Dr., KC, MO 816.920.9300 $$ C3 www.KCChiefs.com Cheer for KC’s professional football team.

KC Comets 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 855.452.4625 $$ D3 www.CometsIndoorSoccer.com Kansas City’s indoor soccer team.

KC Royals Kauffman Stadium: 1 Royal Way, KC, MO 816.921.8000 $$ C3 www.Royals.MLB.com Visit the K to watch KC’s professional baseball team.

 FEATURED LISTING KC T-Bones See ad on pg. 3.

Community America Ballpark: 1800 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.328.2255 $ A3 www.TBonesBaseball.com

KU Athletics 1450 Jayhawk Blvd., Lawrence, KS 785.864.2700 $$ A3 www.KUAthletics.com College teams for the University of Kansas, including basketball, football, baseball, cross country, track and field.

Kansas Speedway 400 Speedway Blvd., KC, KS 913.328.3300 $$ A3 www.KansasSpeedway.com NASCAR races, car shows and classic car races offer plenty of excitement.

Lakeside Speedway 5615 Wolcott Dr., KC, KS 913.299.9206 $ A3 www.LakesideSpeedway.net The half-mile dirt track is part of NASCAR’s weekly racing series

MU Athletics 1 Champions Dr., Columbia, MO 800.228.7297 $$ D3 www.MUTigers.com College teams for the University of Missouri, including basketball, football, baseball, cross country, track and field.

Missouri Mavericks 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 816.252.7825 $$ D3 www.MissouriMavericks.com KC’s minor league ice hockey team offers family excitement.

Sporting KC 1 Sporting Way, KC, KS 913.387.3400 $$ A3 www.SportingKC.com Cheer for KC’s outdoor soccer team.

UMKC Kangaroos Various locations $$ C3 www.UMKCKangaroos.com College teams include basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, cross country, track and field and volleyball.

Rock Wall Climbing The Cave Bouldering Gym

3150 Mercier St., #641a, KC, MO 816.569.5792 $ C3 www.TheCaveBouldering.com Kansas City’s only dedicated bouldering gym is now open.

Emerald City Gymnastics

9063 Bond, OP, KS 913.438.4444 $ B4 www.EmeraldCityGym.com/rockwall Monster Mountain is 5,000 square feet of vertical and horizontal indoor climbing.

IBEX Climbing Gym

801 NW South Outer Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.9988 $ D3 www.ClimbIBEX.com Challenge yourself on the 32-foot walls, lead cave and bouldering area.

North KC Community Center Climbing Wall

1999 Iron St., North KC, MO 816.300.0531 $ C2 www.NKCCC.org Try the 25-foot indoor climbing wall.

ROKC

1501 Howell St., North Kansas City, MO 816.843.7652 $ D2 www.ClimbKC.com Indoor rock wall climbing facility.

Roller Skating Rinks B & D South Skate Center

13903 E. Noland Ct., Indep, MO 816.252.1084 $ D3 www.BandDSouth.com

Wheel Thing Skate Center

1719 Metropolitan Ave., Leavenworth, KS 913.682.7677 $ A1 www.RollinFun.com

Winnwood Skate Center

4426 NE Winn Rd., KC, MO 816.452.1171 $ C2 www.WinnwoodSk8.com

Sports Complexes 68’s Inside Sports

11301 W. 88th St, OP, KS 913.888.9247 $ B4 www.68InsideSports.com Indoor batting cages offer fun and practice.

Blackbob Batting Cages

14570 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.254.7409 $ A5 http://blackbobpark.com/ Outdoor batting cages and outdoor miniature golf.

Blue Valley Rec Batting Cages

9701 W. 137th St., OP, KS 913.685.6030 $ B5 www.BlueValleyRec.org Hit at outdoor batting cages.

Canyon Farms Golf Club

Landmark Skate Center

701 SE Oldham Ct., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.2000 $ D4 www.Landmark2Skate.com

18145 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 913.529.2235 $ B4 www.canyonfarmsgolfclub.com Enjoy outdoor batting cages.

Northland Rolladium

Drive5

1020 Kent St., Liberty, MO 816.792.0590 $ D2 www.SkateLiberty.net

Rink Ratz

513 SW Keystone Dr., Blue Springs, MO 816.229.7793 $ D4 www.rinkratzsk8.com

12140 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.897.4667 $ B5 http://drive5sports.com/ State-of-the art basketball, volleyball, and gym facility.

Fieldhouse of Blue Springs

4720 NW Gateway Ave., KC, MO 816.587.0131 $ C2 www.RiverRoll.com

425 NE Mock Ave., Blue Springs, MO 816.229.1314 $ D3 www.BlueSpringsGov.com Indoor batting cages, indoor black light miniature golf, throwing tunnels and indoor soccer offer family fun.

Skate City Overland Park

KC Sports Lodge

River Roll Skate Center

10440 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.888.6668 $ B4 www.SkateCityKansas.com

Skate City Legends

7838 Washington Ave., KC, KS 913.788.7788 $ A3 www.SkateCityLegends.com

Skate City Shawnee

9800 W. 62nd Ter., Shawnee, KS 913.262.0711 $ B3 www.SkateCityShawnee.com

19310 E. 50th Ter., Independence, MO 816.795.7171 $ D3 www.KCSportsLodge.com The 70,000-square-foot facility offers youth and adult indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball and flag football.

Mac-N-Seitz Baseball & Softball

13705 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.942.9992 $ C5 www.Mac-n-Seitz.com Enjoy two major league-size infields, two full-size bull pens, indoor batting cages, six 70-foot hitting tunnels and party room events.

Martin City Sports Complex

1 E. 135th St., KC, MO 816.941.9000 $ C5 www.MartinCitySports.com Batting cages, as well as driving range, miniature golf, volleyball, paintball and more.

Mid-America Sports Complex

20000 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.826.2900 $ A4 www.JCPRD.com Outdoor batting cages offer up fun and practice.

Shoal Creek Driving Range & Batting Cages

5757 NE 96th St., KC, MO 816.734.9595 $ C1 www.ShoalCreekDrivingRange.com Visit the outdoor batting cages and golf course.

Tom Urquhart’s School of Baseball

7875 Mastin Dr., OP, KS 913.385.2255 $ B4 www.385ball.com Improve your skills at indoor pitching tunnels, batting cages and field.

 FEATURED LISTING Topgolf See ad on pg. 73.

10611 Nall Ave., OP, KS 913.562.9713 $-$$ B4 www.Topgolf.com Topgolf is the premier golf entertainment complex where the competition of sport meets your favorite local hangout. Challenge your friends and family to addictive point-scoring golf games. Just picture a 240-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground. The closer to the center or “bull’s-eye” you get and the farther out you hit your microchipped balls, the more points you receive. Score even bigger with Topgolf’s extensive food and beverage menu that is sure to impress even the pickiest foodies. 

Save on local attractions when you click “Coupons” on www.KCParent.com.

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SPORTS

Kansas City’s independent professional baseball team playing at Community America’s Ballpark in Kansas City, Kansas, since 2003 is a favorite summer tradition. Cheer along with team mascot, “Sizzle.” Parking is free, and there are amenities like a kids’ concession stand and children’s play area in full view of the baseball field so parents never miss any action.

What’s cookin’?

Good lookin’!

A collection that speaks for itself.

OPEN DAILY: 10 AM – 4PM, CLOSED TUESDAYS

5235 OAK STREET K ANSAS CIT Y, MO 64112

816.235.8000

TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG

e r o l p x E

KANSAS CITY ZOO

Over 200 acres of adventure filled with more than 1,700 animals to explore. Travel all over the world with a trip to the Kansas City Zoo. Meet Milo!

Meet Masika!

Koalas

OPEN DAILY

Coming for Summer 2016

kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.