KC Going Places Magazine Spring/Summer 2014

kansas city’s #1 attraction guide

spring/summer 2014

kcgoingplaces.com

500+ mega-fun

attractions

50 WAYS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH KC watch it made DIY destinations magical waterfalls city nights for grown-ups

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must see KC wet & wild summer fabulous and free fun go green in kansas city KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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Find What You Are Looking For at Johnson County Community College

The Community’s College Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Enjoy one of America’s major contemporary art museums right here in the Kansas City area!

• Visit FREE exhibitions with works by international, national and regional artists.

• Explore one of the nation’s “Big Ten” campuses with public art.

• Groups may request free interactive guided tours.

• Engaging studio classes for children ages 5-11 are offered each semester.

For details on museum programs, visit www.nermanmuseum.org.

Performing Arts Series 2014-2015 season includes: • Blues legend Buddy Guy with his protégé Quinn Sullivan • Country music’s Clint Black • Smooth jazz trumpet wizard Chris Botti • Kansas City icon Marilyn Maye For a list of shows, visit www.jccc.edu/TheSeries or call 913-469-4445.

Blues legend Buddy Guy

Credit Classes Be sure to add “take college classes” to your “me time” list of muchanticipated things to do. Classes at JCCC, especially late-start classes, offer a variety of topics and class times that are perfect for busy moms looking to do something rewarding for themselves. Make JCCC your first choice for a valuable, quality education.

For complete information about admission, including how to enroll in classes, visit www.jccc.edu/admissions.

Professional and Career Development Classes JCCC Continuing Education provides professional development and training that spans nearly every functional area of a successful business.

Expert instructors and quality curriculum meet the needs of Kansas City’s most successful individuals, businesses and organizations.

For course details, visit www.jccc.edu/workforce.

12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kansas 66210 www.jccc.edu • 913-469-8500 2

kc going places | spring & summer 2014

physicians

lee’s

summit

group

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

trust.

healthcare you can

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

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

Urgent Care (Pediatrics Only) All day urgent care hours starting in July.

No appointment necessary!

8:00-11:00 am Mon-Friday 4:00-7:00 pm Mon-Thursday

Free Prenatal Consults Mon - Fri 10-12 pm & 1-4 pm

Danielle Leivian, MD Robin Dyson, MD Lauren Lee, C-PNP Kelly R. Fritz, C-PNP

Sat-Sun 8-11 am Scheduled appointments Mon - Fri 10-12 pm & 1-4 pm

Ashley Campbell, DO

Julie Kirkpatrick, C-PNP

2013 WINNER

family faves

Camille Lucitto, C-PNP Cindy Fieser, C-PNP Sarah Dedrick, C-PNP Angela Stott, C-PNP KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP

the ultimate guide to family fun in KC

OUT & ABOUT 12 KC Metro Map 13 Outing Add-Ons: Best Burgers in KC 14 Yellow Brick Road 16 Wet & Wild Adventures

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11 FEATURES 8

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Tour the Town Eight itineraries for every interest

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Wisconsin Dells An Upper Midwest getaway

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Must-See KC All of the fun you can’t miss this spring/summer

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Branson: A Budget-Friendly Family Destination A budget-friendly vacation that will wow your family

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Ecotourism: KC is green!

Environmentally educational and enlightening attractions

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12 Waterfalls Discover the most beautiful waterfalls across the Midwest

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50 Ways to Fall in Love with KC Indulge in Kansas City’s signature flavors, sights and sounds

kc going places | spring & summer 2014

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22 23 24 26

PLAYTIME Five Fun Ideas for Free Indoor Fun Insider Tips: Sea Life Outdoor Adventures

28 29 29 30

NATURE Camping Animal Attractions Plants & Gardens Nature Centers

MUSEUMS Go Big The Arts For Children Historical Insider Tips: National WWI Museum 48 Science 49 Special Interest 42 43 43 44 45

SHOWTIME 52 KC Entertainment Challenge 53 Dance, Music & Theater 54 Insider Tips: KC Zoo

58 60 63 65

SPORTS KC Sports Fast Facts Water Parks Insider Tips: Paradise Park Pro, Semi-Pro and College Sports

City of Indep

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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editor’s letter

I

t’s no secret that I’m proud of my hometown.

Kansas City is a city that surprises its visitors with topnotch attractions, while reminding locals that “there’s no place like home.” With world-class museums and attractions and award-winning venues, Kansas City offers us so much to celebrate in 2014.

This year, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts was named one of the 15 most beautiful concert halls in the world, according to CNN Travel. The venue is a spectacular place to enjoy ballets by the Kansas City Ballet, accompanied by the Kansas City Symphony, as well as world-class concerts and theater performances.

For the daring, this summer marks the debut of the world’s tallest, steepest, fastest water slide, Verrückt (a German term meaning insane), at Schlitterbahn Waterpark.

I grew up visiting the Kansas City Zoo with my family.

Now as a mom, I am thrilled that the zoo just keeps getting better! With a world-class African exhibit guests can enjoy while riding the Sky Safari, two fabulous polar bears and a terrific new penguin exhibit, the zoo attracts more and more visitors each year. Last year, a record-breaking 882,194 people explored the Kansas City Zoo. One of our most iconic attractions is the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial, the only World War I museum in the United States. A tour to the top of the tower offers some of the best views of the city, including an eagle’s eye view of Union Station, celebrating its centennial this year.

These are just a few of the 500+ attractions that make Kansas City proud. But ask any local what makes Kansas City special, and the answer is always the same: It’s the people. In this issue, we interviewed several of those great people for our “Inside Scoop” features. These folks reveal what they love most about Kansas City and share some of the city’s best kept secrets.

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

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kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Managing Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Editor Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Proofreader 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) AmyAnn Cadwell (Kansas City) Amanda Doll (Lenexa) Lauren Greenlee (Olathe) Tisha Foley (Belton) Karen Johnson (Kansas City) Gina Klein (Liberty) Micah Moore (Leawood) Alexis & Nick Rowland (Olathe) Margaret Sarver (Lenexa) Heather Shields (Gladstone) 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 Member of:

Circulation verified by:

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.

Limited Engagement

Join us as we provide guests hands-on science demonstrations and Maker activities around the following themes: April: Green Science May: We Dig Science June: Make. Innovate. Create.

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August: Celebrate Super Hero Science September: Health Science

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Discover what a stingray really feels like.

Plan your visit to TripAdvisor’s #1 Zoo in the U.S. and our new Stingray Beach exhibit to touch live stingrays. Coming this summer.

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getting to kn w kansas city: kansas city classics

music appreciation

national world war I museum at liberty memorial

folly theater

City of fountains, barbecue capital of America, jazz and blues mecca…a visit to Kansas City would be incomplete without enjoying some of Kansas City’s sensational signatures and the landmarks that celebrate them.

Spend a day at the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial (pg. 47), then take a tour to the top of this iconic landmark, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the city’s ever-changing and improving skyline.

The Country Club Plaza (www.CountryClubPlaza.com), the first shopping district designed for shoppers traveling by automobile, is the pride of Kansas City. The architecture inspired by Seville, Spain, makes for one of the prettiest places in Kansas City and is home to many of the city’s most beautiful fountains and ideal backdrops for family photos.

Nearby, visit one of the nation’s largest galleries of worldwide masterpieces at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (pg.

43). For added fun, check www.KCParent.com for a NelsonAtkins scavenger hunt the kids will love!

Celebrating its centennial with special events and exhibits all year, Union Station is a favorite attraction for all ages.

Families enjoy Science City (pg. 48), home to hands-on science exhibits for children, and the Gottlieb Planetarium (pg.

48).

Kansas City knows barbecue, and that means sweet, tangy sauce dripping from ribs and burnt ends with a side of slaw and pit beans. From Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue (www.JackStackBBQ.com) to Arthur Bryant’s (www.ArthurBryantsBBQ.com), to Gate’s (www.GatesBBQ.com) to Oklahoma Joe’s (www.OklahomaJoesBBQ.com), every local has a favorite!

Kansas City, once a capital for jazz, celebrates its musical heritage at local theaters, concert halls and museums.

Celebrate that heritage at 18th & Vine with a visit to the American Jazz Museum (pg. 43) and take in live jazz at the Gem or the Blue Room.

Downtown Kansas City is home to historic theaters and brand new state-of-the-art facilities, all offering premier entertainment. The Folly Theater (pg. 53) opened in 1900 to showcase vaudeville acts. Now, more than a century later, the theater hosts events like the Folly Kids Series and the Folly Jazz Series, making it once again the crown jewel of the downtown district. A few blocks away in the Kansas City Power & Light District, old meets new as you enjoy live theater, concerts and shows performed at the Sprint Center (pg. 55), Music Hall (pg.

54) and the Midland (pg. 54). The Sprint Center is also home to the Grammy Museum Experience (pg. 43), which features educational exhibits where visitors get hands-on with creative songwriting, the art and technology of recording and the history of the GRAMMY Awards.

Adding to the city skyline’s beauty is the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts (pg. 53), recently voted one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world. Delight in live shows from the Kansas City Ballet (pg. 53), Lyric Opera (pg.54), Kansas City Symphony (pg. 54) and touring productions.

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kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Tip: Kansas City hosts fabulous live concerts year-round. Visit www.KCParent.com and click “Calendar” for listings!

tour the town! family favorites

down on the farm

Save on kids meals on Wed. nights!

kidscape

shatto dairy farm

Little ones love the “KidScape” exhibit at the Johnson County Museum (pg. 46), a hands-on child-sized suburban streetscape, where children role play as community figures in educational environments.

With seven world-class roller coasters, Worlds of Fun (pg.

26) is a favorite family destination. Planet Snoopy offers great rides for kids, and there are shows and attractions throughout the theme park for visitors of all ages.

The Kansas City Zoo (pg. 29) just gets better and better!

This year, they celebrate the brand new Helzberg Penguin Plaza. With a world-class polar bear exhibit, all-new African Sky Safari that enables visitors to get a bird’s eye view of Africa and Sumatran Tiger Trail, the zoo is a must-see for visitors.

Check out the great programs offered at the zoo as well, including overnights, and classes for kids!

One of KC’s newest attractions, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center (pg. 44) is a favorite for families. Imaginations run wild at the 30,000-square-foot interactive attraction featuring hands-on play areas, a 4D cinema, master classes from the LEGO® master model builder, LEGO® rides and exhibits.

Next time it seems that the kids are bouncing off the walls, head to Skyzone (pg. 25) where they can bounce off the walls literally! Skyzone is a an all-trampoline, walled playing court described as ”a seemingly endless sea of trampolines, all connected to form one massive trampoline surface.”

For even more indoor play options visit pg. 23.

For a taste of country life, visit Osborn, MO, just a little more than an hour away, home of the Shatto Dairy Farm (pg.

29). A tour includes the bottling room, a milk tasting center with samples of many flavors of milk and watching the cows being milked by machine right before your eyes. Enjoy a visit to Powell Gardens (pg. 30). The area’s botanical garden features many wonderful gardens, but one of the most interesting is the Heartland Harvest Garden. Set on 12 acres, the Heartland Harvest Garden is the largest edible landscape in the United States.

Meet favorite farm animals at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead (pg. 29), where children enjoy pony rides, fishing, a petting zoo and educational programs. This destination consistently ranks among the top picks for KC Parent readers.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm (pg. 47) in Johnson County brings 1850s farming to life with tours and programs all year, including stagecoach rides, family programs and a working blacksmith shop.

The Green Dirt Farm (pg. 29) is a family-operated sheep farm where you can take guided tours to learn about lambs, sheep, milk and cheeses.

The National Agricultural Hall of Fame (pg. 47) is home to a small “farm community,” where visitors can explore a blacksmith shop, general store, farmhouse, train and museums with hands-on exhibits celebrating Kansas’ rich farming heritage.

Tip: Save on many of these attractions and more when you visit www.KCParent.com/Coupons/.

Tip: Visit www.KCParent.com and search “Farmers Markets” and “Farm-to-Table Dining” for more!

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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tour the town:

do it yourself

watch it made in kc

urban arts & crafts

the roasterie

Urban Arts and Crafts (pg. 25) is a creative shop offering offbeat art materials and unique courses ranging from jewelry making to crochet. You can learn to make a metal stamped mother’s necklace or a new ring. Take up knitting or crocheting and make a new baby blanket or scarf for mom.

Create family keepsakes at Paint, Glaze and Fire (pg.

24), Ceramic Cafe (pg. 23) and more paint-your-own pottery shops on pg. 23. Patrons select and paint their own ceramic masterpieces—anything from piggy banks to plates, mugs to picture frames and many holiday pieces, as well.

Kookiedoodle Crafts (pg. 24) in Downtown Overland Park is a one-of-a-kind arts and crafts shop where children purchase kits and make masterpieces all within the store walls—no mess at home, only a take-home masterpiece. Kids will enjoy painting, felt pillow projects, wooden crafts and more.

Our readers always rate Kaleidoscope (pg. 43) as one of the best destinations in Kansas City. Imaginations know no limit as kids create jigsaw puzzles, glow-in-the-dark art, crowns and more at this hands-on art center.

BYOB paint-your-own-canvas shops are one of the newest trends across the city, each offering diverse calendars with a variety of masterpieces you can create following simple step-by-step instructions. Visit www.KCParent.com and search “Canvas Shops” for a complete guide.

Take a tour of one of Kansas City’s local businesses where you can watch as coffee is processed, motorcycles are made, violins are created and more.

You notice a building with an airplane mounted on the roof, and it stirs your curiosity. What could it be? That airplane has become the trademark of The Roasterie (pg. 49), known for selling premier air-roasted coffee. The business offers one of the most fun free tours in town. Visitors watch as coffee goes from bean to brew. Call 816.931.4000 for reservations.

Experience the story of Kansas City’s own Hallmark, from its founding in 1910 to today. Visit the Hallmark Visitor’s Center (pg. 49) and watch as greeting cards and wrapping paper are made and participate in hands-on fun as you create a souvenir gift bow with the push of a button.

Unleash your inner motorcycle enthusiast with a free behind-the-scenes tour of the Harley Davidson Vehicle and Powertrain Operations Plant (pg. 49), where visitors 12 and up can watch the assembly of a V-Rod from start to finish.

There is only one shop in America where professional level violins, violas, cellos and basses are crafted, and it is located right in Downtown Merriam. K.C. Strings (pg. 43) is the shop where more than 20 craftsmen make world-class instruments.

You can schedule a tour for an in-depth view into the science of stringed instruments by calling 913.403.8999.

For the young and the young-at-heart, a visit to Moon Marble (pg. 49) in Bonner Springs is a wonder. Explore the enchanting toy store and marble shop where visitors can watch marble making demonstrations. Call 913.422.1432 for hours.

Tip: Visit www.KCParent.com and click “Calendar” to find free craft workshops and art exhibits throughout the year.

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getting to kn w kansas city make a splash

back to nature

skate free Nov. 2, 6-9 AM

the bay

kauffman memorial gardens

One of Kansas City’s newest water parks, The Bay (pg.

60), offers a lazy river, waves, slides, 6-lane pool and many more great attractions your kids are sure to love, all at affordable rates.

For bigger adventures, head to Kansas City’s indoor water park, CoCo Key (pg. 62), featuring 55,000 square feet of indoor fun with a wading pool, slides, fast tube rides, activity pools and more. Or, spend the night at Great Wolf Lodge (pg. 62), where water adventures await the entire family.

Setting records, this summer Schlitterbahn (pg. 62) opens the world’s tallest, fastest and steepest waterslide, Verrückt.

And the metro’s original outdoor water park, Oceans of Fun (pg. 61), also offers fantastic attractions for all ages, including Aruba Tuba, Surf City Wave Pool, Buccaneer Bay, Coconut Cove and much more! Discover more pools and water parks on pg. 60.

If you’d rather “watch” than get wet, Sea Life Aquarium (pg. 29) takes you under the sea on a two- to three-hour journey from the fresh waters of the Missouri River, into the mighty Mississippi River, then out into the warm blue coral strewn waters of the Caribbean Sea, ending in the deep, dark abyss of the Atlantic Ocean. Come nose to nose with sharks and enjoy astonishingly close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to graceful rays. A favorite is the tropical ocean tank with a walk-through underwater tunnel.

For more water adventures, take skiing lessons from KC Watersports (pg. 60), or visit a local swim beach (pg. 17) or sailing club (pg. 16).

Kansas City is home to three botanical gardens. Kauffman Memorial Gardens (pg. 29) 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. Something is always blooming, and the fountains make a beautiful centerpiece to the landmark. Powell Gardens (pg. 30) 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 (see pg. 30) is home to a Monet garden, train garden and beautiful trails to explore.

For beautiful and unique outdoor scenery at area parks, visit three of our favorites. Loose Park (51st & Wornall, Kansas City, MO), a 75-acre park with a beautiful pond, fields, play areas, and an exquisite rose garden, is truly one of the most picturesque parks in the city. Firefly Forest (along Tomahawk Creek Trail behind Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park) is one of the newest attractions in Kansas parks. Gnome homes have been popping up in trees along the trail complete with fairy-sized furnishings and décor. Children love to walk the trail and discover the fairy houses along the way. Another newer favorite is Meadowmere Park’s Brumble’s Forest (13610 Byars Rd., Grandview, MO). The park features an incredible playground depicting a magical forest kingdom with woodland creatures.

Tip: Search “Best Parks” on www.KCParent.com for info.

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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. 29) is located at C4 on this map.

B

C

D

1

1

A

2

2

3

3

4

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*Map not to scale.

A 12 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

B

C

D

5

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

OUTING ADD ONS:

Best Burger Joints in KC

Treat the family to burgers and an outing! Look for burgers throughout this guide to find the best burger joint near favorite attractions!

The original Winstead’s (101 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.753.2244) is a great way to end a family outing to the the Plaza, Loose Park or Kauffman Memorial Gardens.

Devour one of their famous steakburgers or make it a triple.

For the tiny tots, there is even a mini version of this sandwich that’s been a Kansas City staple for more than 70 years.

After a day spent exploring all that the National World War I Museum or Union Station has to offer (Science City, Model Rail Experience and the Gottlieb Planetarium, to name a few attractions), take a seat at the counter and order up the halfpound Bigger Burger at Town Topic (2021 Broadway, Kansas City, MO, 816.842.2298), another iconic Kansas City diner.

The Snack Shack on Santa Fe (8039 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS. 913.381.3200) is another cool neighborhood spot to try. It’s a great place to grab a bite while browsing the local shops in Historic Downtown Overland Park or after creating your own masterpiece at Kookiedoodle. The Veg-N-Out burger is a favorite, and the Snack Attack (1/4-lb. burger with fries) can’t be beat.

Standee’s (3935 W. 69th Ter., Prairie Village, KS, 913.601.5250) is a new, hip (yet also family-friendly) restaurant and movie theater in the Prairie Village Shops. Sit down to a leisurely meal before or after your movie and try the Big Kahuna burger, or take the Standee’s Signature Steak and Bacon burger into the theater with you to enjoy during the movie.

Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant in Crown Center is always a favorite with train-crazy kids (or adults) after a visit to Kaleidoscope, Coterie Theatre, LEGOLAND®, Hallmark Visitor’s Center or Sea Life. Watch with delight as your old-fashioned burger is brought to your table by a choo-choo in miniature.

Check out LC’s Burgers right off the highway the next time you’re headed to KCI Airport or Zona Rosa; you won’t be disappointed. These burgers are oozing with cheesy goodness and have kept regulars coming back for more than 20 years.

Spend the morning picking out the freshest homegrown fruits and vegetables at the Merriam Marketplace Farmers Market, then drive up to the “best homemade burgers in town” at Grandstand Burgers (4942 Merriam Dr., Shawnee, KS. 913.362.0111) for a tasty lunch.

If you take a day trip to Lawrence, KS, to cheer on the Jayhawks or to stroll down Massachusetts Street, stop in at the new Burgers by Biggs (4841 Bauer Ln., Lawrence, KS, 785.856.2233) to have a bite. A must-try is the Jay Hog, a 50/50 split between a hamburger patty and bacon, a mouth-watering mash-up.

After an educational field trip to Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City or to Shawnee Town, stop in and refuel at Big Bam’s Burgers (5930 Nieman Rd., Shawnee, KS, 913.962.1230). Located in Old Downtown Shawnee, this is a small neighborhood restaurant not to miss. Try the California Dreamin’, a veggie patty with fried jalapenos, cream cheese and Cancun dressing.

Finally, the next time you are touring historic Fort Leavenworth or its Frontier Army Museum (or even the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum), make sure you go to Homer’s Drive Inn (1320 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, KS. 913.651.3500) diner for a taste of nostalgic Americana. A classic, greasy burger perfectly hits the spot at this little gem of Leavenworth history.

Margaret Bristow is a KC native with a taste for delicious dining.

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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STARLIGHT THEATRE

Kansas City’s beloved outdoor theater is showcasing a stage production of The Wizard of Oz June 10-15. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s adaptation of the classic tale features all the favorite songs from the movie, plus a few new tunes by Webber. Families can expect the familiar characters and iconic moments from the MGM flick, with a few surprises along the way. Enjoy a summer evening under the stars as you’re transported to the magical Land of Oz! (4600 Starlight Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.363.7827, www.KCStarlight.com)

EVERYDAY OZ MAGIC IN KC LEGOLAND® Discovery Center features Oz in its Miniland section, where even the smallest visitors will feel like giants. Dorothy’s farm, Munchkin Land, the Emerald City and more are featured. In addition the Legends Shopping Center has a yellow brick road for visitors to follow. (2475 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.471.4386, www.LEGOLandDiscoveryCenter.com) Many local shops, including Kansas Sampler/Rally House, The Best of Kansas City and Barnes and Noble offer Wizard of Oz collectibles and books.

CROWN CENTER

Through May 4, Crown Center visitors can trace Dorothy’s footsteps through the Land of Oz, courtesy of an exhibit, “75 Years of Oz, Oh My!” Families can visit Munchkin Land, meet the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, see the Wizard in the Emerald City, and—if they dare—sneak through the Wicked Witch’s castle. Oz memorabilia from local collector Jane Albright is on display as part of the exhibit. The best part? Everything is free!

(Crown Center Shops Showplace, Level 1, 2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.274.8444, www.CrownCenter.com)

FOLLOW THE

YELLOW BRICK ROAD Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! The movie The Wizard of Oz is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, and KC families can share in the festivities in many ways.

14 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Up for a road trip with your family? Check out these Oz attractions a little farther down the road.

THE OZ MUSEUM | Wamego, KS

Located northwest of Topeka, the Oz Museum was built with a grant from the State of Kansas and the generosity of the people of the small town of Wamego. The museum houses more than 100 years of Oz history, including books by Frank Baum (the writer of the 1900 book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz), memorabilia from the 1939 film, board games and other collectibles—more than 2,000 items in all. Auntie Em’s Gift Shop offers many unique Oz items for visitors to purchase.

From Kansas City, take I-70 west to exit 328 (KS 99) and go 9 miles north to Wamego.

(511 Lincoln Ave., Wamego, KS 66547, 1.866.458.TOTO, www.OzMuseum.com)

DOROTHY’S HOUSE AND LAND OF OZ | LIBERAL, KS

Located in southwest Kansas, Liberal is too far for a day trip from Kansas City, but it might be worth a visit if you’re looking for a longer family road trip.

A house built in 1907 has been restored to mimic the Gale farmhouse from the movie.

Dorothy walks visitors through the house before leading them to a 5,000-square-foot animated Land of Oz. Guests see flying monkeys, apple trees, Munchkins and all the characters from the movie, including the wizard, before ending up back at the farmhouse. Unique memorabilia is on display, including the actual model of the house used in the famous tornado scene. (567 E. Cedar , Liberal, KS, 67901, 620.624.7624, www.DorothysHouse.com)

DID YOU KNOW? The horses in the Emerald City palace were colored with Jell-O crystals. The scenes had to be shot quickly, before the horses started to lick it off.

The Cowardly Lion’s costume weighed 90 pounds and was made from real lion skin. Bert Lahr, the actor who portrayed the Lion, sweated so profusely on the 100-degree set that the suit was soaked at the end of each day.

Shirley Temple was considered for the role of Dorothy, but her vocal talents were deemed by producers to be inadequate.

Frank Morgan played five roles in the movie: Professor Marvel, the Wizard of Oz, the gatekeeper, the carriage driver and the guard.

The shot of Dorothy’s house falling from the sky was achieved by filming a miniature house being dropped onto a sky painting on the stage floor, then reversing the film to make the house appear to fall toward the camera.

Dorothy’s red slippers are housed at the Smithsonian Institution and are so popular that the carpet in front of the attraction has been replaced numerous times due to wear and tear.

Belton mom Tisha Foley has loved The Wizard of Oz since she was a kid.

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summer adventure:

water sports This summer, take on a water adventure! Our local lakes are the place for water sports. Plunge to new depths, travel across the water at incredible speeds, learn new stunts and tricks and enjoy the wind through your hair as your family creates some wild and unforgettable memories.

skiing & other water sports

Have you always wanted to ski but you don’t know how? Or, you’ve wanted to learn more challenging techniques? KC Watersports (25825 Edgemore Rd., Paola, KS, 913.783.4300, www.KCWaterSports.com) is one of the newest businesses in the metro, now offering the best wakeboarding destination in the Midwest. Their 7.5-acre cable lake is home to a five-tower Rixen Cable, an overhead cable system with the ability to carry six riders at the same time. The lake boasts the most challenging set of rails, ramps and sliders in the United States. They offer classes, programs and camps covering skiing, wakeboarding, waterskating, kneeboarding and standing paddleboard for all skill levels from novice to experienced. KCW offers something for every ability level!

sailing

Have you ever dreamed of setting sail on the high seas?

We may not have high seas in Kansas City, but we do have big lakes! Learn to sail at Lake Jacomo in Missouri with the Jacomo Sailing Club (816.678.7761) or on Lake Perry in Kansas with Clifton’s Columbus School of Sail (913.220.5177). Lessons are offered for beginning sailors and can quickly become a family sport. Or, become a spectator of the sport and watch sailboat races every Sunday afternoon at 1:30 from May to October on Lake Jacomo, where boats sail from both Sailboat Cove on the east side and the marina on the west side.

scuba diving

We may live more than 1,000 miles from the nearest ocean, but scuba diving adventures are much closer than you may think. Adventure Sports (913.962-2323), KC Dive Shop (913.677.3483), Midwest Aquatics (913.402.0403) and the Frogman Dive Center (816.200.2881) offer scuba diving sessions and lessons for youngsters. They also offer excursions, including adventures at the Bonne Terre Mines and Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas lakes. For the truly adventurous, you can even embark on a Caribbean trip!

beach volleyball

If you crave some sand between your toes, you can challenge your friends to some beach volleyball at Volleyball Beach (13105 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.942.2820), Shawnee Mission Volleyball Beach (19800 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS, 913.422.4070) or Centerline Beach Volleyball (1910 U.S. 40, Blue Springs, MO, 816.224.4455).

swim beaches at the lakes:

For land-locked Midwesterners craving a little sand and sun, we can’t offer an ocean view, but we do feature several sandy swim beaches for sunny, affordable family fun! Tip: Visit beach websites for hours and admission rates.

Blue Springs Lake (Jackson County, MO, 816.503.4870, www.JacksonGov.org, keyword: beaches)

get more!

Visit www.KCParent.com and search “Spraygrounds” for free water playgrounds perfect for the youngest water enthusiasts.

16 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Longview Lake (Jackson County, MO, www.JacksonGov.org, keyword: beaches)

816.503.4870,

Midwest Aquatics

Shawnee Mission Park Beach (Johnson County, KS, 913.312.8847, www.JCPRD.com) Kill Creek Park Beach (Johnson County, KS, 913.312.8847, www.JCPRD.com) Smithville Lake Beach (Clay County, MO, 816.407.3400, www.SmithvilleMO.org) Watkins Woolen Mill State Park Lake (Clay County, MO, 816.580.3387, www.MOStateParks.com)

boat rental at the lakes

Jackson County, MO, offers boat rental at Blue Springs Lake, Longview Lake and Lake Jacomo (816.503.4870, www.JacksonGov.org, keyword: boating). All three lakes offer pontoon, bass boat and fishing boat rental. Lake Jacomo also features pedal boat and canoe rental.

Johnson County, KS, offers boat rental at Shawnee Mission Park and Kill Creek Park (913.312.8847, www.JCPRD.com). Boat rentals include pedal boats, canoes and fishing boats.

Clay County, MO, offers rental of pontoons and fishing boats at Smithville Lake (816.407.3420, www.SmithvilleMO.org).

Wyandotte County, KS, offers fishing boat rental at Wyandotte County Lake (913.299.8488, www.WyCoKCK.org).

BONUS Adventure: Visit Schlitterbahn waterpark where you can ride a five story water slide, try surfing at Boogie Bahn, the city’s only surf ride, and ride the Fun Cat Boats, a 2-seat chair ride floating through Schlitterbahn’s exterior rivers and pond.

KC Watersports

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wisconsin dells

the ultimate indoor water park getaway

D

id you know—the idea for an indoor water park was born in the Wisconsin Dells area? Did you know—Wisconsin Dells has more indoor water parks than any other place in the world? Did you know that in addition to water parks, Wisconsin Dells offers many nature and scenic adventures? Did you know— Wisconsin Dells is only a short 8-hour drive from Kansas City?

If you answered no to any or all of these queries, then you are in luck!

After a recent week’s stay in Wisconsin Dells, I am here to tell you it is the perfect destination for your family.

Kalahari Outdoor Waterpark

Where to Stay

I was in awe of the sheer size of the hotel/water parks in the area. These places are huge and have so much to offer! I stayed at the Kalahari Resort, where there’s no shortage of fun. In addition to both indoor and outdoor water parks, you’ll find an amusement park with rides and games and a movie theater. I was impressed both with the size of the room and the noise level. Although the hotel is huge and filled with families, my room was quiet. You’ll find that many of the resorts have their own theme. The Kalahari is an African-themed hotel that offers various theme-based events throughout the day. Do your research, and I know you’ll find the perfect hotel for your family—or, like me, you’ll end up with a list of at least five at which you’d like to stay! Guess that just means we need a return trip in the near future! www.kalahariresorts.com

Where to Eat

Big Foot Zipline 18 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

I’ll admit that for me, one of the best things about vacationing is the food. Wisconsin Dells does not disappoint when it comes to great eats.

I was introduced not only to an old-fashioned on my trip, but also the idea of a supper club, which is unique to the Upper Midwest. In the most basic terms, it’s a restaurant open only for dinner. The idea is that your entire evening out is spent enjoying a leisurely dinner at the supper club. We dined at Ishnala, and the evening was spectacular. From amazing dishes to a welcoming staff, it was a perfect night out. If your kids are older and good with a slower paced meal, then make it a night out for the entire family. If not, go for a date night www.ishnala.com.

Other restaurants of note: Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty (www.paulbunyans.com) After a family-style meal, take in a live lumberjack show next door. Mr. Pancake (www.mrpancake.com) With more than 50 breakfast options to choose from, it’s the perfect start to any day. Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewery Co. (www.dellsmoosejaw.com) The only microbrewery in the Dells, the restaurant features an extensive menu with something for everyone.

What to Do

While I could write a book on what the Dells has to offer, I’ve spared you and created a list of must-sees while in the Dells.

These appear in no particular order, as every one of them is #1 in my opinion.

Tommy Bartlett Water Show This show has been entertaining visitors to Wisconsin Dells for 62 years. You will be awed at what these performers can do on skis—some without skis. Amazing! And wait until you see the FlyBoard, a device that propels a person into the air.

Think they’ll let me try it? www.tommybartlett.com/water-show Bigfoot Zipline My first zip line adventure! Fly over treetops and water at 40 mph. I had plenty of butterflies in my stomach on the first run, but after that, I couldn’t wait to get to the second. The worst part: climbing stairs to get to the top. The best: racing a friend on the last run (I lost, but still fun!). www.bigfootzip.com Dells Boat Tours Take one of their cruises during the day to enjoy scenic views while learning about Dells history. You’ll make a stop along the way to walk through Witches Gulch. For an even more beautiful ride, look into a dinner cruise. It was my first stop while in the Dells and was the perfect introduction to the area. www.dellsboattours.com Timbavati Wildlife Park One of the newer attractions, the wildlife park provided not only lots of great info on the animals that make their homes there, but also tons of laughs. Your kids—and you—will have a blast feeding the giraffes. I can’t remember a time I’ve laughed so hard. Be sure to take the train tour as well for many more up-close (and I mean CLOSE) animal adventures. www.timbavatiwildlifepark.com Mirror Lake For me, being on water is one of the most relaxing places to be. So an afternoon of kayaking on Mirror Lake was just about as ideal as an afternoon can get. This is a no-wake lake, so it’s perfect for kids and beginners like me. Take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy just how peaceful everything is.

For those a bit more adventurous, try your hand at paddle boarding. www.mirrorlakeboatrentals.com

Timbavati

5 Other Not-to-Miss Attractions

Original Wisconsin Ducks www.wisconsinducktours.com H.H. Bennett Studio www.hhbennettstudio.wisconsinhis tory.org Lost Canyon Tour www.lostcanyontour.com International Crane Foundation www.savingcranes.org Circus World www.circusworld.wisconsinhistory.org

Margaret Sarver lives with her family in Lenexa. She had such a terrific time in Wisconsin Dells and is looking forward to making a return visit!

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The Discovery of King Tut at Union Station thru Sept. 7 This never-beforeassembled complete recreation of King Tut’s tomb and treasure is making its North American debut in Kansas City. In this breathtaking exhibition, you will learn about and walk in the footsteps of the 1922 discovery of the most significant ancient Egyptian archaeological site imaginable. Explore the tomb’s treasures as they were at the moment of discovery. Marvel at more than 1,000 brilliant objects, filling nearly 20,000 square feet.

Listen as Howard Carter tells his story of mystery and adventure.

kansas city 8 must-sees in

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

Booms & Blooms July 3 at Powell Gardens Beautiful flowers, patriotic music, good eats and sizzling fireworks over a dark country sky make this one of Powell Gardens’ most treasured festivals.

Celebration at the Station May 25 at 8:00 The largest FREE Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest is a much-loved tradition. The Kansas City Symphony, led by music director Michael Stern, performs patriotic favorites against the backdrop of Kansas City’s historic Union Station. The event concludes with the most blazing fireworks display of the year overlooking the National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial!

Missouri State Fair Aug. 7 – 17 in Sedalia Celebrate Missouri’s annual agricultural showcase. The 400-acre fairgrounds will present premier livestock shows and competitive exhibits, and first-class professional entertainment.

Families enjoy the carnival midway, demonstrations, free entertainment, and tastetesting delicious fair foods.

20 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

..

Schlitterbahn Verrückt, the world’s tallest water slide, makes its debut in Kansas City, KS, at Schlitterbahn waterpark this summer. Taller than Niagara Falls, this new slide will shatter all existing records. A four-person raft ride, it will be a thrill you can only experience with three of your most courageous friends.

Starlight This summer enjoy live theater under the stars with Starlight’s Broadway season, featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz, We Will Rock You, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Sound of Music and Blue Man Group.

Penguin Pole-looza at the Kansas City Zoo The Kansas City Zoo is now offering family overnights! You can choose a Penguin Pole-looza or a Polar Bear PJ Party (dates on zoo calendar). Reservations include sleeping in the animal exhibits, animal encounters, night hikes and continental breakfast. You may even explore the zoo after hours and see what the animals do at night (weather permitting).

Worlds of Fun Kansas City’s theme park is home to seven roller coasters, great thrill rides, Planet Snoopy and, making its debut this summer, the SteelHawk.

This new ride soars 301 feet in the air and spreads its steel wings at a 45-degree angle at a speed of 8 rotations a minute, swinging riders for a 60-second flight.

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P L AY T I M E

P L AY T I M E Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

5 playful ideas for free Having a great time doesn’t always have to cost top dollar. Check out these free top picks for fun around town!

Date Night. Nothing sets the mood for a romantic night on the town quite like live music, and the Kansas City Symphony aims to please with its Happy Hour Series. Casual one-hour concerts are held at the exquisite Helzberg Hall throughout the symphony’s annual season. And the best part? They are free! Reservations are required and can be made on the KC Symphony’s website. If you miss the last happy hour concert of the season, rest assured. The Kansas City Symphony offers two free outdoor concerts to bookend the summer season, Celebration at the Station during Memorial Day weekend and Pops in the Park during Labor Day weekend.

Fun with Little Kids. For more than 36 years, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead has provided little ones the opportunity to see what life on a turn-of-the-century family farm was like.

Children delight as they explore an Indian encampment, observe milking in the dairy barn, stroll through Beverly’s Butterfly Garden and take a spin on push-pedal tractors. The farmstead is free to the public Monday through Thursday (admission is $2 on the weekends and holidays), making it a popular outing for many Kansas City families.

Fun with Big Kids. Your budding young artists can let their imaginations run wild at Kaleidoscope, Kansas City’s premier creativity center. By using recycled materials from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes, children can paint, draw and

get more!

even make their own puzzles. Tickets are free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. After your session, consider a visit to the Hallmark Visitor’s Center next door, where you’ll receive a brief overview of the history of Hallmark and even make your own gift bow!

Fun for the Whole Family. Grab the lawn chairs, pack a picnic and get ready for some toe-tappin’ fun! Kansas City and its surrounding areas boast more than a dozen free summer concert series, sure to delight every member of your family.

These laid-back musical events are perfect first experiences for young children who may prefer to dance to the music rather than sit still! To find the concert series closest to you, check out KC Parent’s calendar of events.

Girls Night Out. Kansas City is home to several free art galleries, from the Nelson-Atkins to the Nerman Art Gallery to the Kemper Museum of Modern Art. Call your girlfriends and make plans to visit one (and if checking out the Nelson-Atkins, don’t forget to check out KC Parent’s own scavenger hunt for it). Want to try your hand at a bit of art yourself?

Look no further than your local library or community college, where free and low-cost art classes abound!

Lauren Greenlee and her family enjoy all the free fun Kansas City has to offer. She resides in Olathe.

Visit www.KCParent.com and click “Calendar” for FREE fun-filled outings daily!

22 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

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

Blue Valley Recreation

KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission

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

Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 12

Build-A-Bear Workshop

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!

Amazing Play

523 N. 291 Hwy., Liberty, MO 816.468.9663 $

C2

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 $ www.CeramicCafeKC.com Paint your own pottery shop.

B5

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.

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.

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

P L AY T I M E

www.AmazingPlay.net Indoor play place with laser tag, laser maze, arcades and giant sky maze.

PLAYTIME

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

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.

 FEATURED LISTING Extreme Grand Prix Family Fun Center See ad on pg. 65.

6731 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 816.286.4156 $ C3 www.ExtremeGrandPrix.com Experience real head-to-head racing at and discover why indoor karting is the fastest-growing sport in the United States! Extreme Grand Prix’s high-performance European karts are capable of 45 mph, and that seems extremely fast when you are sitting just one inch off of the ground trying to navigate a 1/4-mile road course. 

A Flip Zone

853 NW O’Brien Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.2636 $ D4

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P L AY T I M E

www.AFlipZone.com Occasional open play on the 33-foot obstacle course, tumble track, trampoline and equipment.

Fun Run

1919 Industrial Dr., Liberty, MO 816.781.0386 $ D1 6501a N. Cosby Ave., KC, MO 816.741.0386 $ B2 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.

INSIDE SCOOP: AARON SPROWL

SEA LIFE Kansas City Aaron Sprowl is the displays curator, responsible for the animal collection and displays at SEA LIFE Kansas City. We asked Aaron to share his favorite things about Kansas City with our readers.

GP: Your favorite KC kid attraction?

Aaron: The Kansas City Zoo provides a wonderful walk full of opportunities to learn something new and see exciting animals.

GP: Best place to go for a stroll in KC? Aaron: Parkville Nature Sanctuary.

GP: Best place to dine on a date in KC? Aaron: Latin Bistro, where you can get personal service from the chef.

GP: Best place to dine with kids in KC? Aaron: Don Chilito’s (unlimited chips and salsa and sopapillas).

Game Zone

20355 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.390.9993 $ A5 www.GameZoneKC.com Indoor arcade with a variety of games for many skills and interests. From popular dance machines to time-tested alley bowlers, there is something for the entire family.

Gymboree Play & Music

Lee’s Summit: 316 SW Blue Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.525.7529 D4 Prairie Village: 22 On the Mall, Prairie Village, KS 913.393.0203 B3 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.

Irene B. French Community Center Indoor Playground

GP: Best place to lunch in KC? Aaron: Go Chicken Go—they have the best gizzards ever!

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

GP: Most FUN place to visit in KC? Aaron: SEA LIFE Aquarium.

Jumping Jax

GP: Most BEAUTIFUL place to visit in KC? Aaron: Powell Gardens.

GP: When you think of KC, you think of ____?

Aaron: Barbecue—we love our barbecue!

GP: Favorite summer tradition in KC? Aaron: Leavenworth fireworks on Independence Day. GP: Must-see KC attraction for out-of-town guests and why?

Aaron: SEA LIFE Aquarium for the immersive aquarium transporting guests to locations around the world.

24 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

15060 W. 135th St., Olathe, KS 913.469.5867 $ B3 www.JumpingJaxParties.com Indoor inflatable play facility and birthday party venue. Parents enjoy the lounge, featuring free coffee, Wi-Fi and a big screen TV.

KC Clay Guild

200 W. 74th St., KC, MO 816.363.1373 $ C4 www.KCClayGuild.org Make your own pottery. Learn to use potter’s wheels and painting techniques.

Kookiedoodle Crafts 7924 Santa Fe, OP, KS 913.387.4065 $

B4

www.KookiedoodleCrafts.com Walk-in arts & crafts studio for children ages 3-12.

Lenexa Community Center “Gym for Me Program”

13420 Oak St., Shwn Msn, KS 913.541.0209 $ 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 www.LittleMonkeyBizness.com Little Monkey Bizness is a full-service coffee house overlooking a nearly 4,000-square-foot play area for kids, including a separate arts & crafts room.

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.

The Maze Craze

8610 N. Dixson Ave., KC, MO 816.587.6293 $-$$ B2 www.TheMazeCraze.com Find your way through our spectacular, mystical Mirror Maze. Climb, crawl and slither your way through the lasers in the Laser Maze!

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.

Monkey Bizness

The Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20080 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.780.2500 $ A5 www.MonkeyBizness.com Kids will never get bored of climbing, bouncing, swinging and sliding at this inflatable play place.

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.

1021 NE Colbern Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.246.5224 $ D4 www.Paradise-Park.com Paradise Park, a premier family Kansas City destination, has something for the whole family to enjoy. 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, gokarts, 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.ParksideCoffeehouse.com Coffee shop for parents and indoor play for tots! Gym, indoor playground equipment and ride-on toys.

Potter’s Haven Art Studio

292 SW Blue Pkwy., 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 913.268.7200 $ B3 North: 509 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO 913.268.7200 $ 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

5 SW 4th St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.525.9323 $ D4 www.PottersHavenArtStudio.com Paint your own pottery shop.

Race slot cars on a 1/24th scale quarter mile drag strip, and a 155’ Blue King road course. Location sells and

rents cars and controllers for the road course.

Sadlers Indoor Racing

325 N. Mur-Len Rd., Olathe, KS 913.768.7700 $ A5 www.SadlersIndoorRacing.com Indoor go-kart course offers fun & thrills.

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.

 FEATURED LISTING Skyzone Sports See ad on pg. 25.

6495 Quivira Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.213.5900 $ A4 www.skyzone.com/kansascity Sky Zone is the original indoor trampoline park, bringing unmatched, out-of-this-world and high-flyin’ FUN of the world’s first all-trampolinewalled playing court to the Kansas City metro area! With open jump, a Foam Zone, SkyRobics fitness classes, 3-D dodgeball (when available) and the SkySlam basketball dunk court, this is the ultimate 3-D play experience! 

P L AY T I M E

Potter’s Obsession

 FEATURED LISTING Paradise Park See ad on pg. 23.

When you see this burger in this guide, refer to pg. 13 for the best nearby burger joint.

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.SylvesterPowell.com Families enjoy inflatables, tricycles, gym mats and more. Call for schedule.

Toddler Town

Roger T. Sermon Community Center: 201 N. Dodgion Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7370 $ D3 www.ci.independence.mo.us Ride-on toys, slides, ball pit, indoor playground, blocks and toys offer fun for youngsters. Call for schedule.

THIS IS WHAT

HAPPY

LOOKS LIKE Open Jump • Birthday Parties • SkyRobics • Ultimate Dodgeball & More

OPEN JUMP PRICING

$9...........................30 MINS $13..........................60 MINS $17...........................90 MINS $20..........................120 MINS

SkySocks are required to jump. ®

SKY ZONE Kansas City 6495 Quivira Rd STE A Shawnee, KS 66216 913-213-5900

Reserve your jump time now at www.skyzone.com/KC All jumpers are required to complete a liability waiver for the specific SZ location they are visiting. Participants under 18 must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.

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Paradise Park

Outdoor Adventures Belton Grandview and KC Railroad

502 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

5940 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.

Midland Railway

1515 High St., Baldwin City, KS 913.721.1211 $ A5 www.Midland-RY.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.

Urban Arts and Crafts

4165 N. Mulberry Dr., KC, MO 816.234.1004 $$ C3 www.urbanartsandcrafts.com Classes in many favorite arts and crafts, including knitting, crochet, beading, handwork and more.

Walls of Clay

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

Westport Roanoke Community Center

Midtown Play Place 3601 Roanoke Rd., KC, MO 816.784.5200 $ www.KCMO.org

C3

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

1251 NE Rice Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.246.0058 $ D4 http://YesKidsFitness.com Family nights, a fitwall, fitness classes and parents night out are offered.

Zonkers

Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20070 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.393.3535 $ A5 www.Zonkers.com Enjoy this indoor amusement park with kiddie roller coaster, carnival rides, carousel, train, token arcade games and batting cages.

Zonkers-Arcade

Oak Park Mall: 11149 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.894.6900 $ B4 www.ZonkersArcade.com A diverse mix of arcade games includes ticket redemption games, prize redemption games, video games, racing games, inflatables and many more.

 FEATURED LISTING Worlds of Fun See ad on pg. 5.

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 kids area that is the playground for new memories. Just like when you were a kid and visited Worlds of Fun, where the enchantment begins and fun never ends. Now enjoy two parks (Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun) for the price of one ticket! 

Kids Camps in KC The KC Going Places Online Guide has over 500+ great destinations — view Google maps, photos, video and reviews at www.KCParent.com/Going-Places/

2246 W. 134th St. Overland Park, KS 66221 Atchison (1) Belton (3)

913-550-1254

Gardner (2) Kansas City (31) Kearney (1) Leawood (12) Merriam (2)

7631 E. 104th St. Kansas City, MO. 64112

Mission (5)

816-233-0124

Lee’s Summit (15)

Overland Park (38) Parkville (8) Cass (17) Jackson (54)

13276 Walnut St. Lee’s Summit, MO. 64112 816-904-1675

26 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

all about

kansas city

5. In 1970, the Kansas City Chiefs beat this team in Super Bowl IV. 7. He got his start as an illustrator in Kansas City and went on to found “the happiest place on earth.”

Across 6. The starting points of the Santa Fe, Oregon and California trails were in this local city.

9. The theme for Worlds of Fun was inspired by the book, Around the World in 80 Days, by this author.

8. The proper utensil for eating KC-style chili.

10. Kansas City is said to have more of these than Rome.

9. Kansas City’s Jazz District is found at 18th and ___.

11. This statue, located in Penn Valley Park, features a Sioux on horseback overlooking downtown since 1922, and is known as the ____.

14. This local landmark is celebrating its centennial this year (2014).

16. Atchison was home to this first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

18. This native son was an anchor for the CBS Evening News and signed off each night with the catchphrase “And that’s the way it is.”

12. This 15-block shopping district was modeled after the architecture of Seville, Spain.

13. ____ Memorial is a symbol of the courage, patriotism, sacrifice and honor of all who served in World War I. 15. In 1985, the Royals defeated this team in the World Series.

19. Kansas comes from the Sioux Indian word for “south ___ people.”

17. The female half of the famous dancing duo Fred and ____, this Oscar-winning starlet was born in Independence.

20. Missouri originates from the Sioux and is interpreted to mean river of the big ___.

20. “I’m going to Kansas City. Kansas City, here I ____.”

2. The abbreviation you’ll find on your baggage tags for Kansas City’s International Airport.

3. This Overland Park native and famous actor has appeared on Friends, Parks & Recreation and films including Clueless and Anchorman.

4. President Harry S. Truman, of Independence, famously said, “The ____ stops here.”

21. This local real estate magnate and philanthropist died in 1909, a death that became one of the most publicized murder trials in the early 20th century. He is best known for bequeathing to Kansas City its largest park named in his honor.

ANSWERS: Across: 6. Independence 8. Fork 9. Vine 14. Union Station 16.

Earhart 18. Cronkite 19. Wind 20. Canoes Down: 1. Barbecue 2. MCI 3. Rudd 4. Buck 5. Vikings 7. Disney 9.

Verne 10. Fountains 11. Scout 12. Plaza 13. Liberty 15. Cardinals 17. Ginger 20. Come 21. Swope

Down 1. Kansas City is most famous for this style of cooking.

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N AT U R E

N AT U R E

camping out for adventure

M

issouri and Kansas have a multitude of camping opportunities in their state parks. They offer a variety from primitive camping sites to deluxe accommodations with nearly all the comforts of home. Some even have yurts to camp in. Whether you are a frequent or occasional camper, consider some of these parks for a getaway. Most places take reservations and include campsite descriptions.

named for the unique rock formations found there.

To peruse the 25 state parks in Kansas, visit kdwpt.state.ks.us/ State-Parks. My favorites include Eisenhower State Park near Osage City, Hillsdale State Park in Paola and Kanopolis State Park in Marquette.

Nearly all Missouri state parks and historic sites offer primitive, basic and various utility-accessible sites. In addition, many state parks have a variety of single, duplex and four-plex cabins to enjoy. Two parks feature yurts in their camping offerings: Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Pomme de Terre State Park.

Nearly all Kansas state parks offer primitive and utility campsites, but Eisenhower State Park has five cabins, four of which are modern, and two yurts. Yurts are permanently standing round tents outfitted like cabins. Eisenhower State Park also offers a sand volleyball court, 18-hole disc golf course, kayak/ canoe rentals and a 19-target walk-through archery trail.

Hillsdale State Park has primitive and utility campsites. Its unique recreational offerings include a shooting range and a model airplane flying area.

Kanopolis State Park is the first state park in the system. It has a multitude of primitive and utility sites, as well as six deluxe cabins that are named after famous Kansas residents, such as Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson. In addition to the plethora of standard recreational opportunities, Kanapolis is the only state park in Kansas with horse rental and guided trail rides.

Nearby is Mushroom Rock State Park, a day use-only park

get more!

Missouri has 43 state parks and historic sites that offer camping; visit mostateparks.com to see them all. Each park or site preserves a unique natural or historical location. Parks to consider include Lake of the Ozarks State Park in Kaiser, Meramec State Park in Sullivan and Johnson Shut-Ins in Middle Brook.

Lake of the Ozarks State Park preserves a section of the popular lake that has remained undeveloped. Among its recreational opportunities are watercraft rentals, tours of Ozark Caverns, and rock climbing and rappelling are allowed in certain months. Meramec State Park (www.meramecpark. com) has basic and utility campsites, group tent areas and cabins. This park is worth visiting for the accessibility it provides for floating the Meramec River, and it offers canoe rentals and for tours of Fisher Cave. Nearby Onondoga Cave in Onondoga State Park is worth the short drive from Meramec. My favorite part of the cave is the Lily Pad Room. Johnson Shut-Ins State Park is a popular camping park because of the unique gorges, slides and potholes in the Black River bed. Nearby is Elephant Rock State Park, a day use-only park, featuring enormous round boulders resembling elephants.

Heather Shields is a lifelong lover of nature and a local science teacher.

Kansas City is home to many FREE nature centers. Log onto www.KCParent.com and click on Calendar to find special events at these centers.

28 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Burr Oaks Woods Nature Center

N AT U R E

NATURE 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. 12 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, a petting zoo and information about the rodeo.

Burroughs Audubon Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary

7300 W. 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. 30.

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

20363 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. 68.

6800 Zoo Dr., KC, MO 816.513.5800 $ C4 www.KansasCityZoo.org The Kansas City Zoo gets better every year. Visitors now enjoy polar bear couple Nikita and Berlin and riding the African Sky Safari for a bird’s eye view of the world-class African exhibit. Also enjoy the new Helzberg Penguin Plaza, watch elephants paint or catch a sea lion show. 

Native Hoofed Animal Enclosure

Fleming Park: US 40 & Woods Chapel Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.229.8980 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 Tours are offered of this working farm where children can learn about animals and farming firsthand.

 FEATURED LISTING Sea Life Kansas City See ad on pg. 31.

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. Experience a touch pool where you can hold a crab and touch a starfish. Learn more about sea life

through fun talks and feed shows throughout the day every day! 

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.

Plants & 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.

Kauffman Memorial Gardens

4800 Rockhill Rd., KC, MO 816.932.1200 Free C3 www.PowellGardens.org The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden is an exquisite garden featuring fountains and sculptures among lush and colorful flowers.

Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden in Loose Park

5200 Pennsylvania Ave., KC, MO 816.513.7500 Free C3 www.KCMO.org KC's rose garden features hundreds of roses with a fountain as its centerpiece.

Linda Hall Library Urban Arboretum

5109 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.926.8747 Free C3 www.LindaHall.org Urban garden on UMKC’s campus features a butterfly garden.

Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary

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N AT U R E

Overland Park Arboretum 8909 W. 179th St., OP, KS 913.685.3604 Free - $ B5 www.OPKansas.org Savor beautiful gardens including a Monet garden, a children’s garden and water gardens.  FEATURED LISTING Powell Gardens See ad on pg. 30.

Burr Oak Woods Nature Center

George Owens Nature Park

1401 NW Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.3766 Free D3 www.MDC.mo.gov One of the largest nature centers in the metro, Burr Oak Woods features hands-on exhibits for children, an aquarium with Missouri fish, live animals and nature trails.

1609 NW US Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO 816.697.2600 $ D5 www.PowellGardens.org Experience 970 acres of botanical bliss, stunning architecture and gorgeous display gardens that change with the seasons. With a full-service cafe, gift shop and an inspirational chapel, you will enjoy a visit any time of year. From North America’s longest “living” wall on the Island Garden to the nation’s largest edible landscape in the Heartland Harvest Garden, you’ll find beauty in every season. 

Cave Spring Historic Site & Nature Center

Nature Centers

F. L. Schlagle Library

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.

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.

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

Kansas City’s tM bOtaniCal garDen

M ay 3 1 - O c t O b e r 5 , 2 0 1 4

Don’t miss this hands-on journey through 26 large-scale bronze sculptures by Dan Ostermiller.

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

816.697.2600 | www.powellgardens.org 30 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

1601 S. Speck Rd., Indep, MO 816.325.7115 Free D3 www.GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Enjoy programs for children, fishing dock and trails. One of the features is a “Storybook Trail” where you read pages from a giant children’s book as you walk the path.

John Barkley Visitor Center

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

cluding birds of prey, snakes, amphibians, turtles, fish and invertebrates.

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 for all ages.

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

8201 Jasper Bell, Blue Springs, MO 816.229.8980 Free D4 www.JacksonGov.org See reptile displays, rock and fossil exhibits, a natural resource library and mounted wildlife. The grounds feature nature trails, butterfly and water gardens and an arboretum.

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

Lakeside Nature Center

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

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

Prairie Park Nature Center

FELINE CONSERVATORY & EDUCATION CENTER LOUISBURG, KANSAS

Public Feedings Every Saturday!

Cedar Cove is a non-profit, educational sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of endangered species!

Summer Hours: April 1st - Oct 31st Saturday: 10am - 5pm (Feed at 4pm) Sunday: 10am - 3pm Winter Hours: Nov1st - March 31st Saturday: 11am - 3pm (Feed at 2pm) Sunday: 11am - 3pm

Open year-round for an educational experience that will grab you!

Located in Louisburg, KS 20 min. south of KC on Hwy 69

www.saveoursiberians.org

word on the street We asked our Facebook fans—local people who know the best of the best in Kansas City—what they love and why they love it. Follow us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/KansasCityParent.

Q A

If you could tell a tourist to do only one thing in KC, it would be ____. And why?

Union Station! From the free train display and play area, to Science City, IMAX and unique exhibits, you can spend the whole day there entertaining the whole family. Throw in Pierponts and the beauty of the building, and it just can’t be beat ~ Crystal Kent Ride a carriage on the Country Club Plaza. ~ Stephanie Williams

Spend a Saturday shopping for antiques and boutique treasures in the West Bottoms, then head over to the Amigoni Winery for a taste testing in their tasting room. ~ Brandy Babcock Deanna Rose! My kids love the animals and the many different parks and activities to do there. ~ Kenna M. Baird-Gates Eat at Oklahoma Joe’s and order a Z-man; best BBQ in town! ~ Sarah Goulding Maxey Go to the Kansas City Zoo. It’s a fun family day and great place for the kids to burn up energy. ~ Mo Baker Take in a Friday night Royals game and enjoy the fireworks! ~ Abbey Harrigan

For the fashionista head to the Garment District to find unique boutiques in the KC Power & Light District. ~ Jan Stevens Split a Roundup (a mega order of delicious barbecue) with friends at Fiorella’s Jack Stack in Martin City. ~ Jeff Anderson Visit Loose Park. The park itself is a great treasure. The rose garden is beautiful, and the play areas are perfect for little ones. Lots of open space to fly kites, walk, picnic and let your kids explore. ~ Jen Abernathy Tour the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial. The exhibits are amazing, and the view of the city is spectacular. ~ Stacy Miller

®

Explore an Amazing Underwater World

olivia’s House now open!

Book online for Great SavinGS

www.visitsealife.com/ kansas-city Located at Crown Center in Kansas City, MO Book online for Great SavinGS

www.leGolanDDiscoveryCenter.com/kansascity

Claws Exhibit Now Open

• factory tour • 4D Cinema • leGo MinilanD • leGo rides • Play Zone • Celebration rooms • leGo Shop, Café and Much More! ®

®

®

LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group, ©2014 The LEGO Group.

®

Save up to $15 off admission!

Save up to $15 off admission

Terms & Conditions - Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or offers and can not be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplications or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until 12/31/2014. Reference - 1304

Terms & Conditions - Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts coupons or offers and can not be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplications or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit.Valid until 12/31/2014. Reference - 1303

Save $3 off admission to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City up to a maximum of 5 guests with this coupon.

Save $3 off admission to SEA LIFE Kansas City up to a maximum of 5 guests with this coupon.

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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artisan dining in kansas city Kansas City is quickly becoming the center of an artisan dining movement. From food trucks to fine wine, these three local restaurants are leading the way.

Pigwich

2618 Guinotte Ave., Kansas City, MO www.thelocalpig.com Mon.-Sun. 10:30-7:30 Pigwich is a stationary food truck adjacent to the Local Pig, a local charcuterie that supplies a wide variety of humanely-raised meats. With local meats sourced straight from the shop next door, Pigwich serves some of the best sandwiches and burgers you will find in the city. My personal favorite is the Bahn Mi, a Vietnamese-inspired pork meatball sandwich with sliced carrots and pickles, covered in cilantro sriracha. This humble little food truck in the East Bottoms draws more than 1,000 people per week, making it one of the most popular local stops for artisan sandwiches.

Port Fonda

4141 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, MO www.portfondakc.com Mon.-Thu. 11:00 a.m.-Midnight; Fri. 11:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.; Sat. 10:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.; Sun.10:00 a.m.-Close Chef Patrick Ryan of Port Fonda has quickly gained Kansas City’s attention with his fresh take on Mexican cuisine. The atmosphere at Port Fonda is all cool—low-hanging lights, hardwoods, exposed ductwork and a fresh artistic style that reflects the creativity of the chef. My current menu favorite is the Diesmillo braised beef with chipotle cheddar béchamel, grilled onions, pickled jalapeno and salsa ranchera. The menu is sourced from local farms and features local food and drink legends, including Christopher Elbow and Oddly Correct to ensure everything you taste is artisan and memorable.

Bluestem

900 Westport Rd., Kansas City, MO www.bluestemkc.com Tue.-Sat. 5:30-10:00; Sun. 10:00-2:30 Husband and wife duo Colby and Megan Garrelts have been delighting the city since 2004 at Bluestem. There is nothing stuffy about this restaurant, yet somehow they pull off a refreshingly polished presentation. The lobby and bar are a chic combination of simplicity and style. The art is modern, and the restaurant is splashed with bright colors and lots of light. Dinner options include your choice of courses: 3-course ($65), 5-course ($75) and 10-course ($100). Additional wine pairings are available from the sommelier. Chefs Colby and Megan aren’t just delighting locals with their artisan cuisine.

On May 6, 2013, they brought home the coveted James Beard award for Best Chef in the Midwest.

AmyAnn Cadwell is co-founder of a blog dedicated to the search for all things local, urban and delicious, www.FindingKansasCity.com.

32 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Branson Missouri A Budget-Friendly, Top-Notch Vacation Destination Dixie Stampede

S

ummer beckons with the sweet promise of vacation season. Far off tropical destinations and European vacations may call to you in your dreams, but the budget is saying, “Stay close to home.”

If you’re dreaming of a family trip without breaking the bank, then Branson may be just the ticket.

Branson, vacation capital of the Midwest, is home to Silver Dollar City (www.SilverDollarCity.com), a one-of-a-kind 1800s-themed amusement park as well as world-class live entertainment and fun resorts! Plus, you’ll find several free and budget friendly options for fun.

A visit to Branson wouldn’t be complete without seeing a great show. Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede (www.dixiestampede.com) is an entertaining dinner show unlike any other. The audience is seated around an arena, where a live horse competition takes place complete with music, games and a variety of animals from ostriches to pot belly pigs. While you watch the show, you’re served a full meal complete with soup, bread, chicken, corn and dessert... one catch, the entire meal is “finger food.” Other great shows include Kirby VanBurch Magic Show, The Acrobats of China and, of course, great movies on the Branson IMAX. Learn more at continued on pg. 36

New “Roman Ride of Fire” debuts at Dixie Stampede, celebrating its 20th season in 2014.

Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction celebrates its 20th season with the all-new, amazing “Roman Ride of Fire,” making the show bigger, brighter and bolder than ever before!

In 2014, Dixie Stampede brings new equestrian excitement to guests as they experience dramatic demonstrations of horsemanship and nearly impossible feats of skill and agility. The “Roman Ride of Fire” highlights a special type of trick riding featuring the rider’s standing astride two horses moving side-by-side, with precise timing at a full gallop, jumping the horses through the ring of fire.

“I want my guests have some jaw-dropping equestrian excitement this year,” says Dixie Stampede owner Dolly Parton. “Part of the fun at my Dixie Stampede is giving the audience the unexpected. It’s just amazing!”

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Titanic Museum Attraction Permanent, Interactive Experience

2014

New Gallery First tribute in the world devoted to the Musicians aboard ✔ Walk the $1 million exact replica of the Grand Staircase ✔ Touch an Iceberg ✔ Steer the ship ✔ Many interactive exhibits ✔ Over 400 artifacts ✔ Receive a boarding pass

34 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Find us on Facebook: Titanic Museum Attraction & Twitter: TitanicUSA

Celebrating

Our 2Oth Season!

Branson’s #1 Choice For Great Food & Entertainment!

Dine on a savory feast as you enjoy the most amazing entertainment and liveliest competition in Branson! Tighten your bootstraps as the competition revs up with a powerful performance, daring demonstrations of riding skill, and spectacular showmanship! Tip your hat to rousing musical numbers and flag-flying patriotism that lifts you up and leaves you ready for more.

Reserve Early!

800-520-5544 or 417-336-3000 www.dixiestampede.com

“Scan Me For Fun!”

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(www.Sight-Sound.com) presents live theatrical portrayals of epic Bible stories.

Titanic Museum Attraction

Get back to nature with a day at Table Rock Lake ( w w w . V i s i t Ta b l e R o c k L a k e . o r g )

or Lake Tanneycomo (www.ShowMeLakes.com/ LakeTaneycomo.php). Both lakes offer several great places to stay overnight, whether you are in the mood for resort lodging or a summer campout with roasted hot dogs. Take the family fishing for a variety of bass, crappie and walleye. New to fishing?

Check out Lilley’s Landing (www.LilleysLanding.com), an affordable family-friendly resort perfect for boating and fishing for all levels of experience. Try out the boat guide trips that include rods and reels, fishing equipment and boat rental with experienced fishing guides who teach tips for success.

Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery (http://mdc. mo.gov/regions/southwest/ shepherd-hills-fish-hatchery) is the Missouri Department of Conservation’s largest troutrearing hatchery, producing between 350,000 and 400,000 pounds of rainbow and brown trout each year.

Children love to watch the fish, feed them, and visit the exhibits in the nature center. Best of all, a visit to the hatchery is free!

If shopping is a must on your dream vacation agenda, Branson is home to several outlet malls that feature favorite retail stores offering great discounts. For a novel bargain-hunting experience, visit Dick’s Oldtime 5 & 10 (http://dicksoldtime5and10.com/). The store carries 50,000 different items, including nostalgic collectibles, novelty candies, old-fashioned toys and games. Then, head for a stroll through the Branson Landing and enjoy the free Water and Fire Show offered hourly from noon until 10:00.

Branson is a terrific family destination. Less than a tank of gas from Kansas City, this spot offers world-class entertainment, affordable family fun, a fabulous theme park and two beautiful lakes. This year as you plan your perfect family getaway, make it a Branson vacation.

36 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Why Kids Say, “Once is Not Enough”

First Class Maid JAMIE

The first time is magic. The second or third time is magic magnified a hundred times. I’ve asked some of our “regular kiddies”, what it is about the Titanic Museum Attraction that brings them back?

They say there’s so much to see and do that they couldn’t possibly experience it all in one visit. They know that new exhibits and interactive children’s events happen all the time. There are always new Titanic artifacts to surprise them.

Now, of course, that could be because our ship’s Admiral, Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, is constantly reshuffling the decks to make room for new and exciting Titanic tributes. Admiral Mary knows how children think and what it takes to hold their interest. You might say, twenty years as a Senior Executive at Disney has something to do with that.

Visit as a special guest and leave as a Titanic passenger.

Photo courtesy of VisitKC.com

Photo courtesy of VisitKC.com

b

c

kansas city

fun facts

d a The most famous celebrity from Kansas City is not a person at all.

Walt Disney was sitting in his Laugh-O-Gram Studio in Kansas City when he met a mouse who would visit his desk and beg for crumbs while he drew. Walt said, “I grew particularly fond of one brown house mouse.

He was a timid little guy. By tapping him on the nose with my pencil, I trained him to run inside a black circle I drew on my drawing board.

When I left Kansas City to try my luck in Hollywood, I hated to leave him behind. So I carefully carried him to a backyard, making sure it was a nice neighborhood, and the tame little fellow scampered to freedom.” It was that mouse that inspired one of the world’s most famous icons and beloved characters: Mickey Mouse.

We’re not home to the world’s tallest skyscraper, but we are

b home to the world’s tastiest.

At a mere 42 floors and 623 feet in height, One Kansas City Place, our tallest building at 1200 Main, pales in comparison to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai at 160 floors and 2,717 feet tall. True, the buildings of our metropolis may not impress world travelers, however, Kansas City’s most famous skyscrapers will impress! Served in gigantic glasses with extra-long straws, Skyscrapers have been dished up by Winstead’s since the opening of their first restaurant on the Country Club Plaza in 1940. At the original location, the treat is delivered to your table with a tambourine and a jingle.

c And more barbecue restaurants than we can count.

With more than 100 barbecue restaurants in Kansas City, each with a very loyal local following, Kansas City boasts more barbecue restaurants per capita than any other city in the nation. Dry rubbed meats and a sweet, spicy and tangy sauce are Kansas City signatures, dating back to the to the 1920s when Arthur Bryant’s opened as the first barbecue restaurant in town. Since then, the fan base has grown, and now the Kansas City Barbeque Society is the world’s largest organization devoted to the art and science of barbecue.

d We have more fountains than we can count. a

It was the dream of 20th-century city leaders like August Meyer, George Kessler and J.C. Nichols that Kansas City would have “more boulevards than Paris, more fountains than Rome.” Now, if you ask the City of Fountains Foundation how many fountains you’ll find in Kansas City, they’ll tell you that they don’t know. They have registered 200 fountains in the metropolitan area, not including fountains in private gardens, homes, businesses and subdivisions. Every year, the fountains are turned on with a ceremony during Fountain Day in early April.

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kansas city Eco-tourists enjoy local attractions devoted to taking care of our planet.

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elcome to eco-friendly Kansas City!

Whether you are visiting for the first time or you live here and are looking to explore the area on an environmentally friendly staycation, KC has much to offer!

where to stay…

The Q Hotel: http://theqhotel.com/ (Downtown KC) The Q Hotel is said to be Kansas City’s first “green” hotel.

Like many well-known hotels, the Q recycles, conserves water and uses energy efficient appliances and fluorescent light bulbs. The Q, however, takes “going green” to a whole new level.

As a guest, you will enjoy organic food, coffee and wine.

The Q also donates all leftover food to local farmers for composting. Your room will be furnished with eco-friendly bathroom amenities and, before your arrival, will have been cleaned with bio-friendly chemicals. And finally, if you require transportation, a hybrid shuttle will take you to and from your destination, or you even may rent a bicycle from the Q’s concierge.

getting around…

B Cycle: https://kansascity.bcycle.com/default.aspx A great way to see KC, get exercise and avoid polluting the air is to rent a B Cycle. If you are not familiar with the B Cycle concept, it is simple: Throughout the city there are kiosks with bicycles for rent. Find a kiosk; rent a bike. When finished with the bike, return it to any kiosk. You can choose a variety of payment options, from paying by the hour to purchasing an annual pass. Bonus: The first 30 minutes of usage is free! Visit the link above for kiosk locations and prices.

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things to do…

Eco-friendly activities can be found throughout the Kansas City area, from downtown to the surrounding countryside.

Overland Park Arboretum: www.opkansas.org (Overland Park, KS, southwest of KC) The Overland Park Arboretum provides 300 acres of botanical gardens and hiking trails. Upon arrival, grab a visitor’s map to help you navigate the mazes of walkways, vibrant flowerbeds, bridges and waterfalls. If you are visiting with children, make sure you see the children’s garden and train exhibit.

Admission is $3 for visitors 13 and older, $1 for ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under.

Eighty Acres: www.eightyacres.net (Leavenworth, KS, northwest of KC) Looking to explore and get some fresh air outside of KC? A 45-minute drive will take you to serene Eighty Acres, where for a $5 day pass, you can hike, fish, canoe and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors. Eighty Acres is just that—80 acres of natural beauty.

The Berry Patch: www.theberrypatchonline.com (Cleveland, MO, south of KC) The Berry Patch is open year-round, although its peak season is summer for blueberry and blackberry picking. In fall and spring, however, you can visit and enjoy frozen blueberries!

This kid-friendly farm offers rows and rows of berry picking, as well as homemade muffins and pies to snack on. After picking their fruit, kids can enjoy riding the zip line and playing on the playground and Noah’s Feed Lot. The Berry Patch is a mustsee for fruit loving families in the KC area.

City Market: http://thecitymarket.org/ (Downtown KC) Kansas City’s City Market offers rows and rows of locally grown produce, meats, plants and flowers, as well as eclectic boutiques, antique shops and coffee bars. Enjoy ethnic food? At City Market, you can sample delicious Italian, Japanese, Brazilian, Ethiopian and Vietnamese cuisine, among others. And

is green!

City Market

if you enjoy yard sale shopping, every Sunday morning City Market hosts a community yard sale open to all for shopping and selling.

More things to do: • Overland Park Farmers Market: www.opkansas.org (Overland Park, KS, southwest of KC) • Powell Gardens: www.powellgardens.org/ (Kingsville, MO, east of KC) • Shatto Dairy Farm: www.shattomilk.com/ (Osborn, MO, north of KC)

where to eat…

Smokin’ Fresh Streetside BBQ: http://www.smokinfresh.com/ (mobile restaurant) In KC? Must eat barbecue! Smokin’ Fresh serves only all-natural, grass-fed, hormone-free meats and organic sides. Almost everything down to the sauce is homemade from scratch.

This eatery is mobile, however, so check out their website or contact them to find out where they are when you are in town!

Justus Drugstore: www.drugstorerestaurant.com (Smithville, MO, north of KC) For a fancy night out, try Justus Drugstore. The menu offers three courses of delectable meat, cheese and vegetable combinations to suit any palate, each with its own wine pairing. Made from scratch, every menu item is exclusively created from locally grown meat and produce. Justus Drugstore is definitely worth the half-hour drive from KC.

More places to eat: • The Farmhouse: www.eatatthefarmhouse.com (Kansas City, MO, near City Market) • Café Gratitude: http://cafegratitudekc.com (Kansas City, MO) • Renee Kelly’s Harvest: http://reneekellysharvest.com (Shawnee, KS, southwest of KC) • Unforked: http://unforked.com (Overland Park, KS, southwest of KC) Have fun exploring eco-friendly Kansas City!

Karen Johnson is a Kansas City mom with a penchant for eco-friendly living.

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Waterfall at Hodgson Mill

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waterfalls in the midwest

Waterfall Park in Independence

#1: ROCK AND WATERFALL GARDEN AT POWELL GARDENS Where: Powell Gardens, 1609 NW US Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO, 816.697.2600 About: One of the loveliest spots at Powell Gardens, the Rock and Waterfall Garden is a photographer’s dream! With a vibrant display of blooming flowers and the pleasant melody of rolling water, this is one of the most peaceful places at the garden.

Photo courtesy of Independence Tourism

#2: WATERFALL PARK IN MERRIAM Where: 5191 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS About: The 15-acre park features an access point to the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, a scenic walking path, and practice fields.

Nearby: KC Strings #3: WATERFALL PARK IN INDEPENDENCE Where: 4501 S. Bass Dr., Independence, MO, 816.325.7375 About: The 18-acre park, near Bass Pro Shops in Independence, is nestled in a wooded area overlooking a lake and waterfalls.

Nearby: Cool Crest #4: WATERFALL IN THE WESTIN CROWN CENTER Where: The lobby of the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, 1 E. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.474.4400 About: As our only indoor waterfall on this list, the Westin’s waterfall is perhaps one of the most famous in the metro. The limestone bluff with a rock garden and 60‑foot waterfall is the centerpiece begging to be photographed.

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There is something magical and dreamy about exploring nature, hiking trails and discovering waterfalls.

This is your guide to 12 wonderful Midwestern waterfalls.

Nearby: Crown Center, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, Sea Life Kansas City, Kaleidoscope, Science City at Union Station #5: WATERFALL AT WATKINS MILL STATE PARK Where: Watkins Mill State Park, 26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO, 816.580.3387 About: Frequently confused for Watt’s Mill (below), Watkins Mill State Park is a must-see destination in the area. Many of the buildings that Waltus Watkins spent half a century building—including an elegant home and a three-story woolen mill—have been preserved to give visitors a sense of life in the 1870s.

Nearby: Tour Watkins Woolen Mill Historic Site and visit the many amenities at the state park while you’re there. #6: WATERFALL AT WATT’S MILL Where: 103rd & State Line, Kansas City, MO About: Frequently confused for Watkins Mill (above), a grist mill called Fitzhugh’s Mill was built in 1832 and run by George and Jonathan Fitzhugh. The family operation ground corn and wheat using energy from the waterfalls near the Santa Fe Trail. The water-driven mill eventually fell into decay. It stood at what is now the Watts Mill Shopping Center. You may see the waterfalls from Jasper’s and Marco Polo’s Italian Market.

Nearby: U.S. Toy #7: CEDAR CREEK FALLS Where: Lake Olathe, 625 Lakeshore Dr., Olathe, KS, is also home to Cedar Creek Falls, 143rd St./Dennis Ave.) About: An overflow dam on Cedar Creek just above Lake Olathe, the waterfall flows year round but, like most waterfalls, is prettiest after a heavy rain. Fishing, boating, hiking and playgrounds are available for fun.

Nearby: Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm and Ernie Miller Nature Center #8: WATERFALL AT ERNIE MILLER NATURE CENTER Where: 909 Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS, 913.764.8580 About: The nature center is home to a small stream and waterfall, which you may view from the Wildlife Viewing Room or the trails.

Nearby: Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm #9: WATERFALL AT PARKVILLE NATURE SANCTUARY Where: MO Hwy. 9 & 12th St., Parkville, MO About: The hiking trails are beautiful and scenic with waterfalls, a stream, wildlife and serenity, just 15 minutes from the city!

Nearby: Parkville Mini Golf #10: TRYST FALLS PARK Where: Route 92, Kearney, MO, 816.407.3400 About: The natural falls make a beautiful place for a picnic at the park! The park offers a playground, shelter houses and picnic tables.

Nearby: Jesse James Farm & Museum and Mount Gilead Church and School #11: GRAND FALLS Where: This is a day trip or weekend getaway from Kansas City. Grand Falls is located in Joplin, MO. Directions: From the intersection of I-44 & Hwy. 86, go south 1 mile, cross Shoal Creek and turn right immediately after crossing the bridge. Follow the south bank of Shoal Creek for 3 more miles. You will spot the falls on the right.

About: Missouri’s largest natural, continually flowing waterfall is beautifully situated in the Missouri Ozarks Nearby: Country Caboose Train Museum (1100 N. Prosperity Rd., Joplin, MO, 417.624.3861),

Grand Falls in Joplin

#12: WATERFALL AT HODGSON MILL Where: This is a weekend getaway from Kansas City. You will find Hodgson Mill 17 miles north of Gainesville on Hwy. 181 in Ozark County, Missouri.

About: Hodgson Mill is one of the most beautiful mills in Missouri and site of a lovely waterfall.

The mill dates back to 1861 when it was built as a grist mill, using the power of the nearby spring to grind grain.

Nearby: Rockbridge State Park (www.MOStateParks.com) is a beautiful site for trout fishing and hiking and home to Rockbridge Restaurant, serving delicious and famous local trout.

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MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

Arabia Steamboat

GO BIG:

DISCOVER KANSAS CITY’S LARGEST ATTRACTIONS

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hat will you do when it’s too hot or wet to go to your local park, but the kids must have something fun to do? Fear not—we have you covered with three of the top big exhibits in the Kansas City area.

Union Station “The Discovery of King Tut” (30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO) on exhibit thru Sept. 7 Unlike a typical museum display, The Discovery of King Tut combines dramatic production effects and recreated artifacts to simulate the discovery of King Tut s tomb. Visitors explore the tomb chamber by chamber exactly as it was originally discovered. Audio headsets (included in the ticket price) narrate your journey, while creative lighting guides you artifact by artifact though the tomb. There is even a kid s version of the audio, so that youngsters can experience the adventure on their own level.

Arabia Steamboat (400 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO) The Arabia Steamboat Museum is one of the Midwest’s most popular attractions. It’s easy to see why—when the steamboat sank in 1856, she took nearly 200 tons of treasure to the bottom of the Missouri River with her. The treasure was discovered in 1987 and turned into a large museum featuring the most extensive collection of pre-Civil War artifacts in the world. Tour guides take you through part of the museum and even show a short film about how the artifacts were recovered. From there you can explore the rest of the museum on your own. As the process of cleaning and preserving found artifacts continues, visitors can expect new displays and items to be added on an ongoing basis.

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National World War I Museum (100 W. 26 St., Kansas City, MO) The use of interactive displays and films to share the stories of those who lived through World War I sets this museum apart as one of Kansas City’s top attractions. Featuring the largest collection of artifacts from this time period, it is sure to have something to interest everyone in your family. The newest exhibit, “On the Brink,” opened March 15 and explores events that sparked the First World War. Featuring artifacts from nine nations, this exhibit uses newspaper articles, quotes and photographs to create a journalistic and documentary-style presentation. Admission to “On the Brink” is included with your regular admission.

Prairiefire Museum (5801 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS) The brand new Prairiefire Museum in Overland Park opens May 1 with the exhibit “Water: H2O = Life.” The exhibit features live animals and more than 90 artifacts and models displaying how important water is to our planet. Dinosaur lovers will be amazed at the dinosaur display in the great hall.

Money Museum (1 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.881.2683) Experience a free, up-close look of the nation’s financial system in action. As the nation’s central bank, the Federal Reserve is a vital part of what makes the economy work. At the Money Museum, you can learn about the Fed through interactive exhibits that explore banking, how people pay for things and how monetary policy decisions impact your family’s bottom line.

Micah Moore is a lifelong Kansas City resident and writer who loves finding the unique in everything.

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. 12 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.

Grammy Museum Experience

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

1407 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.949.7100 $ C3 www.sprintcenter.com A one-of-a-kind museum celebrating the enduring legacies of all forms of music, featuring legendary artifacts and interactive displays.

4525 Oak St., KC, MO 816.751.1278 Free C3 www.Nelson-Atkins.org The Nelson-Atkins features art from around the world, from ancient to modern times. Classes, workshops and special tours are also offered.

KC Jewish Museum of Contemporary Art

 FEATURED LISTING Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art See ad on pg. 2.

5500 W. 123rd St., OP, KS 913.266.8413 Free B5 www.KCJMCA.org Innovative art exhibitions and related programming to engage the community through art.

KC Strings

5842 Merriam Dr, Merriam, KS 913.403.8999 Free B4 www.KCStrings.com 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.

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, hosting 16 temporary exhibitions annually. Ask for a children’s guide at the front desk to enrich your experience. Additionally, the museum houses the 200-seat Hudson Auditorium, Café Tempo, two classrooms, a museum store and a New Media Gallery. 

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

MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS & TOURS

5100 Rockhill Rd., KC, MO 816.235.1502 Free C3 cas.UMKC.edu/art/gallery-contact.asp 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.KidPeace.org 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 816.974.6110 Free C2 www.ECEWKC.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 816.274.8301 Free C3 www.HallmarkKaleidoscope.com Children create their own unique works of art. Operate a jigsaw puzzle machine,

Wonderscope

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 FEATURED LISTING LEGOLAND® Discovery Center See ad on pg. 31.

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. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center provides a range of interactive play areas, including 4D cinema, master classes from the LEGO master model builder, exciting LEGO rides, as well as the popular MINILAND exhibit designed to reflect the iconic buildings of Kansas City. 

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. 43.

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. 

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 816.461.1897 $ D3 www.JCHS.org One-room schoolhouse, marshal’s home, 1859 jail and museum.

 FEATURED LISTING 1950s All-Electric House

See ad on pg. 49.

6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.715.2550 $ A4 www.JoCoMuseum.org Whether you’re a child of the ‘50s or just curious about lifestyles from this nostalgic era, the 1950s All-Electric House offers an eye-opening look at the technology of the times. Showcased inside are futuristic gadgets like a hidden television, electric curtain opener, a garage door opener and the “year round” air conditioner…known as the heat pump. 

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.

Alexander Majors Home

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

Amelia Earhart Birthplace

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

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.

913.345.2000 Free C3 www.BattleOfWestport.org The museum depicts the history of the famous Civil War battle in western Missouri.

Belton Historical Society & Museum

512 Main St., Belton, MO 816.322.3977 $ 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 Ferrel Platte County Museum

220 Ferrel St., Platte City, MO 816.431.5121 $ A1 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.

Black Archives of Mid-America

1722 E. 17th Ter., KC, MO 816.701.3590 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.

Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center

3700 Blue Pkwy., KC, MO 816.513.0700 Free C3 www.KCMO.org This museum is a tribute to the legacy of Kansas City’s early African-American 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.casscountyhistoricalsociety.com 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

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.

Clay County Museum

14 N. Main St., Liberty, MO 816.792.1849 Free www.ClayCountyMuseum.org

D1

Atkins-Johnson Farm 6508 N. Jackson Ave., Gladstone, MO 816.423.4108 $ 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.

Battle of Westport Museum 6601 Swope Pkwy., KC, MO

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Missouri Town 1855

Photo Credit Jackson County Parks & Recreation

MUSEUMS

watch paint magically dry, create in a glow-in-the-dark world & more!

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.

chase. 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 to1916 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.

Grinter Place State Historic Site

Ensor Farmsite and Museum

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.

Excelsior Springs Historical Museum

Harris-Kearney House

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

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!

First City Museum

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

Fort Osage

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 Pur-

MUSEUMS

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.

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.

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library

INSIDE SCOOP: LARA VOGT

National WWI Museum Lora Vogt, curator of education at the National World War I Museum, creates community education programming and interpretive materials at the museum and at www.theworldwar.org. “When I’m not making plans to support the upcoming Centennial of World War I, I’m part of the planning team for the ‘Inspire Freedom’ weekend,” she says.

GP: Best way to spend a Friday night in Kansas City?

Lora: I have a pretty simple formula because there are so many great live events in the city. I’ll usually start by grabbing a bite at one of the delicious happy hours around town (Bluestem), then go to a live event (First Friday or a concert) and follow up with dessert. The Downtown KC and VisitKC e-blasts are helpful to keep up with what all is going on.

500 US Hwy. 24, Indep, MO 816.268.8200 $ D3 www.TrumanLibrary.org The Presidential Library depicts the history of the Truman administration and events surrounding the Truman presidency.

GP: Best way to spend a Saturday morning in KC? Lora: I like to start with breakfast at Classic Cup on the Plaza and then move on to running errands as I listen to KCUR at 89.3 FM on the dial (preferably without a foot of snow!) and getting out for a run or going to the dog park.

Herbert Bonnell Museum

GP: Best way to relax in KC? Lora: I relax by taking my dog to Shawnee Mission Park for some trail running. I’m an avowed tea drinker, but Kansas City has turned me to the joys of coffee, so I’ve found myself searching for the best (not too-highoctane) coffee in the city. So far, I enjoy Hi-Hat, Oddly Correct or Latteland.

20755 Lamar Rd., Weston, MO 816.386.5587 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

GP: Best KC attractions for kids?

Lora: My in-state nieces and nephew (ages 11, 8, 3) love visiting Kansas City. Though it was a tough decision on their part, their final favorites were the T-Rex Cafe and Crown Center (Kaleidoscope, LEGOLAND, SEA LIFE Aquarium) and, of course, the National World War I Museum.

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MUSEUMS

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

30 W. Pershing Rd., 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 816.252.7454 Free D3 www.JCHS.org 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 $ 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.WornallHouse.org Currently closed for construction, the 1858 museum is still offering 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.

D2

National Frontier Trails Museum

 FEATURED LISTING Johnson County Museum See ad on pg. 49.

6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.715.2550 Free A4 www.JoCoMuseum.org This museum includes permanent and changing galleries, including KidScape, a wonderful hands-on child-size city for kids to explore. The museum is a great place to spend the day learning about Johnson County’s history. Special events for children and families are offered year-round. 

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 913.205.8520 $ 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.KCMuseum.com 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.

 FEATURED LISTING KC Rail Experience See ad on pg. 7.

Photo courtesy of Independence Tourism

Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.UnionStation.org The KC Rail Experience is a hands-on journey through the exciting history of the American railroad that shaped the destiny of the Kansas City region and the nation as a whole. 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.  46 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Korean War Veterans Memorial Kansas City

Washington Square Park: Pershing & Grand Blvd., KC, MO Free C3 www.MoKoreanWarMemorial.org The Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department donated land for the construction of the memorial. It will be funded by private donations and is currently under construction.

Korean War Veterans Memorial Overland Park

11902 Lowell Ave., OP, KS 913.888.2497 Free B5 www.KWVA.org 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.

 FEATURED LISTING Lanesfield School Historic Site See ad on pg. 49.

18745 Dillie Rd., Edgerton, KS 913.893.6645 Free A5 www.JoCoMuseum.org The Lanesfield School Historic Site is a tribute to rural schooling. It consists of a restored one-room schoolhouse, outbuildings and a visitor’s center.

Programs in the schoolhouse feature a costumed schoolteacher who recreates a 1904 school experience. 

Leavenworth National Cemetery

150 Muncie Rd., 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 913.682.1331 $ 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.

Lee’s Summit Railroad Museum

220 SE Main St., Lee’s Summit, MO

www.VisitPrairieFire.com The museum showcases world renowned exhibits. Check out the “Water: H20 = Life Exhibition,” opening in May 2014.

Legler Barn Museum

National Agricultural Hall of Fame

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.hairwork.com/leila 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. 49.

1200 Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 913.971.5111 $ A5 www.OlatheKs.org 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 hands-on programs for children, stagecoach rides and living history days. 

Missouri Town 1855

8010 E. Park Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.503.4860 $ D4 www.JacksonGov.org/MissouriTown 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.JesseJamesMuseum.org Tour a one-room schoolhouse, where school continued to meet through the Civil War, and a historic church.

The Museum at Prairiefire 5750 W. 137th St., OP, KS 913.338.3800 $

B5

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

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.

MUSEUMS

816.525.9440 Free D4 www.LeesSummitHistory.net A collection of local artifacts dating back to the 1890s is housed in an old depot.

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. 67.

5235 Oak St., KC, MO 816.333.9328 $ C3 www.ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, formerly the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City, is currently closed for renovations. The museum plans to reopen in early 2015.

The 38-room house boasts the largest collection of nostalgic toys, fine-scale miniatures and marbles in the Midwest. This specialty museum is just a few blocks south of the renowned Country Club Plaza. The young and young-at-heart will be whisked back in time through displays of the toys that defined generations.

 FEATURED LISTING National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial See ad on pg. 43.

100 W. 26th St., KC, MO 816.784.1918 $ 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

223 N. Main St., 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.

Shawnee Indian Mission

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 KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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Wonderscope Children’s Museum

MUSEUMS

turned fleece into fabric.

Weston Historical Museum

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 913.721.1078 Free A3 www.WYCoKCK.org Hands-on exhibits and artifacts depict the history of Wyandotte County and Native Americans.

Science Museums and Sites Indian Mission. Learn the history of the Shawnee and early Johnson County, KS.

Shawnee Town 1929

11501 W. 57th St., Shawnee, KS 913.248.2360 $ B3 www.ShawneeTown.org An active, fun place where visitors of all ages learn what it was like to live in Shawnee in 1929. Experience a typical day in and around the farm town.

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 19thcentury buildings. Hands-on history is taught through programs and events.

Strawberry Hill Museum

Tour the office and courtroom used by Mr. Truman in his early years of elected politics. Remodeled office opening soon.

es of the National Archives. The collections include historical, diplomatic, genealogical and military documents, artifacts and exhibits.

Truman Farm Home

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

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.

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!

UFDC Doll Museum

Thomas Hart Benton Home

Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Federal Courthouse

3616 Belleview, 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.

Truman Courtroom and Office

Jackson County Courthouse, Main & Maple, Rm. 109, Indep, MO 816.252.7454 $ D3 www.JacksonGov.org

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.

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 branch-

48 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Veterans Memorial Park 1025 S. Harrison, Olathe, KS 913.971.6263 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 Veteran’s memorial as well as park facilities: playground, trail, basketball court, etc.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

43rd & Broadway, 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

 FEATURED LISTING Gottlieb Planetarium See ad on pg. 7.

Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.UnionStation.org The Gottlieb Planetarium’s 360-degree domed screen and advanced 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.

Powell Observatory

10297 W. 263rd 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. 7.

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 opti-

College Basketball Experience

Special Interest Museums & Tours

Hallmark Visitors Center

Ambiance on the Water

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.

Armacost Car Museum

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

MUSEUMS

cal illusions, medicine and weather.

Housed in Union Station, a popular destination drawing tourists who marvel at the Grand Hall’s 95-foot ceiling, three 3,500-pound chandeliers and the 6-foot wide clock hanging in the station’s central arch. 

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

2450 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.5672 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.

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.

Louisburg Cider Mill

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

Special events throughout the year

include pumpkin season, Cider Fest and opportunities for group tours.

Moon Marble

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.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

1616 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.221.1920 $ C3 www.NLBM.com The museum is dedicated to the history of Negro Leagues Baseball with interactive exhibits for all ages.

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 816.504.4222 $ C3 http://KansasCity.Royals.MLB.com An education and entertainment venue that includes artifacts, photos and videos tracing the history of Royals baseball.

Shawnee Mission Parkway & Lackman Road Shawnee, Kansas 66217 913.715.2550 www.jocomuseum.org Made with QRHacker.com

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KANSAS CITY IS A VIBRANT AND FUN CITY TO EXPLORE ALL NIGHT LONG.

city for the foodie…

Choice 1: Culinary Experience Plan ahead for this date. Enroll in a cooking experience from one of the following KC resources: The Culinary Center of Kansas City (www.KCCulinary.com).

You can’t go wrong spending your evening at this culinary gem in Downtown Overland Park. Check out their website for lots of fun and playful classes, such as Cream Pie, Oh My, Cooking for Couples, Art of the Cinnamon Roll and Girls Night Out: Babes on Bourbon Street, to name a few. The list goes on, and you’ll be sure to find something just right for your needs.

Other great venues for KC cooking Classes: KC Chef Cooking Classes River Market area (kcchef.com) A Thyme for Everything Lee’s Summit (athymeforeverything.com) UMKC’s Communiversity Classes (umkc.edu/commu/) Williams Sonoma Plaza and Leawood (williamssonoma.com)

9. Westport Café and Bar (French, in Westport) 10. Café Provence (French American, in Prairie Village)

for the movie buff…

Choice 1: Upgrade the Classic Dinner & a Movie If you have a babysitter on the clock and want to consolidate your dining/movie experience, consider the following: Fork and Screen (AMC Olathe, 12075 S. Strang Line Rd., Olathe, KS, 888.AMC.4FUN, www.AMCTheatres.com) has an extensive menu and bar service at the push of button, plus upgraded seating.

Cinema Suites (AMC Olathe, 12075 S. Strang Line Rd., Olathe, KS, 888.AMC.4FUN, www.AMCTheatres.com) offers an extensive menu and full-service bar at the push of a button and— the best part—plush recliners for seating (must be 21+).

Standees, the Entertainment Eatery (3935 W 69th Ter., Prairie Village, KS, 913.601.5250, www.StandeesEatery.com) has a full-service bar and menu.

Choice 2: Taste Test If you’d rather be waited on and revel in fantastic food, consider one of the “Top 10 Diner’s Choice” winners under the category “Fit For Foodies” from www.OpenTable.com.

1. Extra Virgin (Mediterranean, in Kansas City) 2. Bluestem (American, in Westport) 3. Affare (German, in Kansas City) 4. Story (American, in Prairie Village) 5. Broadmoor Bistro (Contemporary American, at Broadmoor Technical Center) 6. Room 39 (American, in Westport) 7. Michael Smith (Contemporary American, in Crossroads) 8. The Westside Local (American, in Kansas City) 50 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

Standees

joint, then head there for dinner. Check out visitkc.com/ where-to-eat/barbecue-cant-miss-bbq-joints/index.aspx for an extensive list and details to drive your decision.

nights Choice 2: Quote-Alongs, Sing-Alongs and Comedy!

You don’t want to miss the greatness that is the Alamo Drafthouse (1400 Main St., Kansas City, MO, 816.474.4545) in the KC Power & Light District! Not only does it operate as a standard movie theater (with dine-in options and cocktail availability!), it has a sub-culture of interactive and playful cinema activities. Check out their calendar for events such as Moulin Rouge Sing-Along (hello, girls night out!), Movie Interruption (comedians interjecting during classic movies), QuoteAlongs, Cartoon Cereal Party (classic cartoons) and more!

Try a new twist to your movie experience. http://drafthouse. com/kansas_city/mainstreet Choice 3: An Old-Fashioned Drive-In Yes, they still exist, and there are three still operating in the KC area. Pack a picnic dinner and enjoy the big screen in the great outdoors. Search “Drive-In Theaters” on www.KCParent.com for a complete list!

for those wanting the best of KC…

Choice 1: Kansas City’s Landmarks Take a mini excursion to Kansas City’s timeless Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St., Kansas City, MO, 816.751.1278, www.Nelson-Atkins.org). Budget in one hour (excluding travel time) and focus on one exhibition or collection of this giant treasure box just east of the Country Club Plaza (www.CountryClubPlaza.com). Time your outing to enjoy a beverage or dessert served every Wednesday through Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 in the Rozelle Court Restaurant. Then, head to the Country Club Plaza for shopping, dining and enjoying the Seville-inspired architecture.

Choice 2: Barbecue You just have to sample KC’s signature food: barbecue.

Have fun debating and deciding on KC’s best barbecue

Choice 3: Jazz Enjoy a nightcap in the famous 18th & Vine area, known as a jazz mecca. Check out the American Jazz Museum’s Blue Room (1616 East 18th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.474.8463, http://club.americanjazzmuseum.org/.), which features live jazz entertainment.

for the sports fan…

Choice 1: Root for the Home Team Book tickets to a KC team’s sporting event. This is always a safe and successful bet for a sporty night out. Besides the Big Two—the Chiefs and Royals—consider some other spins on local sports, such as the T-Bones, KC Sporting, Kansas City Roller Warriors, KC Storm (women’s tackle football), Missouri Mavericks (hockey) or an event at the Speedway.

Choice 2: Eat, Celebrate and Exercise Located in North Kansas City, just minutes from the Truman Sports Complex, Chappell’s Restaurant and Sports Museum (323 Armour Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.421.0002, www.ChappellsRestaurant.com) will satisfy all sports lovers’ cravings. The standout feature of this restaurant is the sports museum within the restaurant. Enjoy browsing floor-to-ceiling sports memorabilia from present day to 100 years old. Then pick from a casual dining menu featuring a half-pound Zagat-rated burger, steaks and other sport’s bar favorites. After dinner, burn off some calories from Chappell’s with a game of miniature golf, bowling, batting cages, rock wall climbing, Frisbee golf or walking trails.

for an out of this world experience…

Choice 1: Haunted History Round up your friends for a private, docent-led, lantern-lit ghost tour of the Alexander Majors House (8201 State Line Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.444.1858, www.AlexanderMajors.com). Built in 1856, the house has a long and storied history of the normal and paranormal. You will learn about the strange events and ghosts said to haunt certain rooms.

Choice 2: An Amish Excursion Unplug yourself from the KC metro area and take the hourlong drive to Jamesport, MO (www.jamesport-mo.com).

Here you will observe a working Amish community completely independent from all forms of technology, including electricity. Check out the website for list of tours, seasonal events and all that Jamesport has to offer!

Choice 3: Let Technology Be Your Guide And for you tech lovers, yes, there’s an app (several of them).

Whether you’re looking for live music or late-night dancing, look into these apps. All have unique features to help you customize your night out. Check out Better Half, Chef’s Feed, Open Table, Poynt, Local Scout and Yelp for insider tips on the best KC has to offer.

Amanda Doll is looking forward to participating in the Moulin Rouge sing-along with fellow moms and trying out the “sporty” itinerary with her husband this spring.

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SHOWTIME

SHOWTIME Kansas City Ballet

Kansas City Entertainment Challenge 1) The Broadway musical The Sound of Music will be hitting the stage at Starlight Theatre on July 25. This musical hit was a smashing success from the very first night on the Broadway stage on Nov. 16 of what year?

a. 1928

b. 1951

c. 1962

d. 1959 2) Kansas City’s Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts houses two sophisticated performance halls: the Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall. The entire center comprises how many square feet?

a. 285,000

b. 198,500

c. 315,000

d. 80,000 3. Click your heels together and join the fun as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz takes center stage this June at Starlight Theatre.

Originally premiered in 1902 in Chicago, the musical moved on to Broadway in what year?

a. 1920

b. 1910

c. 1903

d. 1907

4. The Kansas City Ballet was founded in what year?

a. 1929

b. 1957

c. 1941

d. 1980 5. The magic of Cinderella will entertain Kansas City audiences beginning May 9 at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre in Kansas City. Prokofiev’s Cinderella ballet was first performed on Nov. 15, 1945, at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. About how many variations of the Cinderella story now exist?

a. 150

b. more than 1,500

c. 31

d. 941 6. The Coterie children’s theater was founded in what year?

a. 1985

b. 2001

c. 1979

d. 1997

Liberty mom and author Gina Klein loves the performing arts and plans to attend as many shows as she can afford this year with her family.

Answer Key: 1=d; 2=a; 3=c; 4=b; 5=b; 6=c

get more!

Kansas City musicians and entertainers offer free and cheap performances year round. Visit www.KCParent.com and click on “Calendar” for the latest!

52 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

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

Christian Youth Theater

Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 12 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Dance, Music & Theater American Girl Drama Team

Various locations: Lee’s Summit area.

816.204.5702 $ D4 http://AGDT.blogspot.com AGDT is aimed at girls ages 8-12, and a teen class for girls 13 and older. Public performances are held seasonally.

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 $ www.TheBarnPlayers.org Enjoy live community performances.

B3 theater

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.

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.

Comedy City

817 Westport Rd., 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.

Excelsior Springs Community Theatre

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.

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

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.

 FEATURED LISTING Kansas City Ballet See ad on pg. 55.

SHOWTIME

the world grace the Carlsen Center stage. Enjoy performances for the whole family. The 2014-2015 season features Blues legend Buddy Guy, Country music’s Clint Black, jazz trumpet wizard Chris Botti and Kansas City icon Marilyn Maye.

SHOWTIME

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 ballet’s homes, Todd Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, are poised to make KC a true destination for professional dance. The 2014-2015 season, “We’re going to take you places you’ve never been!” features Alice in Wonderland, The Nutcracker, New Moves and Giselle. 

KC Chamber Orchestra

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

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.

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.

 FEATURED LISTING Carlsen Center at JCCC See ad on pg. 2.

12345 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.469.4445 $$ B4 www.JCCC.edu Concerts, ballet, live theater, puppet shows and performances from around

Carlsen Center

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

53

SHOWTIME

KC Repertory Theatre

Martin City Melodrama

KC Starlight Theatre

Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre

KC Symphony

Midland Theatre

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

INSIDE SCOOP: STACIA PIERONI

KC ZOO Stacia Pieroni is the Australasia area supervisor at the Kansas City Zoo. She oversees a staff of eight zookeepers and more than 150 animals in the Australia and Asia sections of the zoo. “I am a ‘working’ supervisor so I, along with all of my staff, make sure our area animals are receiving the best care possible on a daily basis,” she says. “This entails feeding, cleaning, training and observing our animals seven days a week, 365 days a year—the animals do not take holidays.”

GP: Best way to spend a Friday night in Kansas City?

Stacia: Royals game. Friday night fireworks!

GP: Best way to spend a Saturday in Kansas City?

Stacia: Shopping and dining on the Plaza.

GP: Best way to relax in Kansas City?

Stacia: Picnic in Loose Park.

GP: If you are raising KC kids, what is your favorite place to visit in KC with them and why?

Stacia: The Kansas City Zoo! You are bound to see something different every time you visit. It’s both educational and enjoyable for kids of all ages.

GP: Best place to go for a stroll in KC? Stacia: Trolley Trail/Brookside.

GP: Best place to dine on a date in KC? Stacia: Café Trio.

GP: Best place to dine with kids in KC? Stacia: Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant.

GP: Best place to lunch in KC? Stacia: The Mixx.

GP: Most FUN place to visit in KC? Stacia: Sporting KC game.

GP: Most BEAUTIFUL place to visit in KC? Stacia: The Country Club Plaza.

54 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

4600 Starlight Rd., 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.

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 Ave., 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

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.4933 $$ C3 www.KCOpera.org Attend live professional opera performances.

9601 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.642.7576 $ B4 www.MartinCityMelodrama.org Live Vaudeville-style theater is sure to leave the entire family laughing!

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.

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 dance performances.

B3

The Murder Mystery Co.

The Tiffany Ballroom: 903 Harrison St., KC, MO 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

Off Center Theatre: 2405 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.5524 $ 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.

Mystery Train

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

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

Northland Symphony Orchestra

Piccadilly Puppets

Park Hill South High School: 4500 River Park Dr., Riverside, MO Oak Park High School: 825 NE 79th Ter., KC, MO 816.420.3137 $ B2 www.NorthlandSymphony.org Enjoy notable symphony performances.

Olathe Civic Band

Various Locations 913.856.9916 Free-$ B3 www.OlatheCivicBand.org Live musical performances for the community.

Olathe Community Theatre

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

Paul Mesner Puppets 1006 Linwood Blvd., KC, MO 816.756.3500 $

6801 W. 95th St., OP, KS 816.756.3500 $ B4 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.

913.441.2309 $ A3 The Roving Imp Theater is an improvisational comedy troupe.

Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park

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

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.

Roving Imp Theater

ECM Building on KU Campus 1204 Oread Ave., Lawrence, KS

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.

Trilogy Cultural Arts Centre

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

UMKC Conservatory of Music

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

StoneLion Puppet Theatre

4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.2702 $$ C3 www.UMKC.edu/Theatre UMKC college students offer live theater performances.

Theatre for Young America

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.

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

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

SHOWTIME

New Theatre Restaurant

C3

GIVE YOUR CHILD THE GIFT OF DANCE THE REGION’S MOST RESPECTED PROGRAM FOR ASPIRING DANCERS AGES 3 TO 18

Our ACADEMY classes help your child learn poise, balance, rhythm, and how to take instruction and work well with others. . . all under the guidance of our professional, year-round dance faculty.

INTRODUCE MOVEMENT TO YOUR CHILD WITH EXCELLENT STARTER CLASSES IN. . .

• Creative Movement ages 3-5 • Pre-Ballet Kindergarten-3rd grade

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5

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Watch them achieve, grow & develop their skills from Level 1 on up through Level 7

94th Terr.

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SPACE IS LIMITED. . .ENROLL TODAY!

816-931-2299 | www.kcballet.org/school KCGOINGPLACES.COM

55

50 ways to fall in love with

kansas city

by Kristina Light

1. Shop in Brookside.

2. Run barefoot through the grass at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. 1

3. Take a photo from the top of the National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial.

4. Tailgate at Kauffman Stadium.

5. Ride all seven roller coasters at Worlds of Fun. 6. Sip a Skyscraper at Winstead’s.

7. Visit the Truman Home.

8. Draw under the black light at Kaleidoscope.

9. Jump for joy at SkyZone.

10. Bottle feed baby goats at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.

11. Sit under the stars and enjoy a Broadway show at Starlight.

12. Enjoy a day at Loose Park.

9

13. Listen to amazing live jazz.

14. Build a giant tower at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center.

15. Touch a sea star at Sea Life Kansas City.

16. Cheer for MLS Cup champions Sporting KC. 17. Delight in delectable gourmet chocolates at Andre’s or Christopher Elbow’s.

18. Buy fresh fruits and veggies at City Market.

19. Spend a First Friday in the Crossroads.

14

20. Shop in the West Bottoms.

21. Savor your favorite brew at The Roasterie.

22. Ride the world’s tallest water slide at Schlitterbahn.

56 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

26

23. Play at Penguin Park.

24. Race go-karts at Extreme Grand Prix.

25. Rent a paddleboat at Lake Jacomo.

26. Grab a bite in the KC Power & Light District.

27. Photograph friends in front of a fountain.

28. Explore the river bank at Fort Osage.

29. Pick fresh berries at a local berry patch.

30. Meet friends for lunch in Westport.

31. Window shop in Historic Overland Park.

32. Get free money at the Money Museum.

33. Taste test every flavor of GlacĂŠ ice cream till you find your favorite.

34. Explore the Central Branch of the Kansas City Library because any library with a parking garage painted with classic books has to be cool.

35. Ride the African Sky Safari at the Kansas City Zoo.

45

36. Pet oxen at Missouri Town 1855.

29

37. Find fairies at Firefly Forest.

38. Dine on the sidewalk at the Country Club Plaza.

39. Ride a bicycle across a high wire at Science City.

40. Watch a NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway.

41. Applaud the Kansas City Ballet at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

42. Find faces in the woodwork at Vaile Mansion.

43. Buy spices at Planters.

44. Learn how to make a motorcycle at the Harley-Davidson Factory tour.

45. Ride a Stagecoach at Mahaffie Stagecoach.

46. Bike Trolley Trail.

47. Eat delicious barbecue on a quest to find the very best.

48. Catch a show at the Sprint Center.

49. Munch on Topsy’s popcorn.

24

50. Find something new because Kansas City is always full of surprises!

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

57

SPORTS

SPORTS

KANSAS CITY SPORTS FAST FACTS

16

3 10

The Kansas City Royals had three American League Rawlings Gold Glove winners last year. The 2013 Kansas City winners were Salvador Perez, Eric Hosmer and Alex Gordon.

The Royals tied with the Baltimore Orioles for the most Gold Glove winners in 2013.

Kansas Speedway has hosted 16 NASCAR races since opening in 2001. Legendary NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon has raced in all 16 of these events, winning two times.

NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth also has competed in all 16 races and won twice.

The number of consecutive Big 12 titles the Kansas Jayhawks have either won or shared. During this span, the Kansas Jayhawks made two Final Four appearances.

In 2008 they were the NCAA division 1 National Champions, and in 2012 they were the NCAA runners-up.

21,650

The 2013 MLS Cup was held at Sporting Park in Kansas City, KS, on Dec. 7, 2013. The temperature recorded that night was the coldest ever for an MLS Cup, with an official temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the cold, there were still 21,650 people in attendance. Sporting KC went into the MLS Cup game as the second place team in the eastern conference.

Sporting KC played against Real Salt Lake. Each team scored 1, and Sporting KC won 7-6 in a penalty shootout.

Alexis and Nick Rowland are both from Kansas City, and their love for sports brought them together in 2011.

get more!

Check out the “Giveaways” on www.KCParent.com for your chance to win FREE prizes! New contests every month!

58 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

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. 12 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Bowling Aaron’s Westchester Lanes

1901 W. Mechanic St., Harrisonville, MO 816.380.2920 $ C5 www.AaronsFamilyFunCenter.com

AMF

Strike ‘N Spare Lanes: 13001 E. 40 Hwy., Indep, MO 816.356.1900 $ D3 Northland Lanes: 217 NE Vivion Rd., KC, MO 816.454.2695 $ C2 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 $ www.AMF.com

B4

Blue Springs Bowl

1225 US 40 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.9994 $ D4 www.BlueSpringsBowl.com

Broadway Bowl

2201 S. Broadway, Oak Grove, MO 816.625.1111 $ D4 www.BroadwayBowlMo.com

Diamond Bowl

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

D3

Gladstone Bowl

300 NW 72nd St., Gladstone, MO 816.436.2695 $ C2 www.GladstoneBowl.com

Incred-A-Bowl

8500 W. 151st St., Stanley, KS 913.851.1700 $ B5 www.IncredaBowl.com Miniature golf and laser tag also available.

KC Bowl

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

Ranch Bowl

Lunar Bowl

A3

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

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

Mission Bowl

Retro Bowl

5399 Martway St., Mission, KS 913.432.7000 $ B3 www.MissionBowl.com Miniature golf is available as well.

Mission Bowl ‘N Olathe

1020 S. Weaver St., Olathe, KS 913.782.0279 $ www.Olathe.MissionBowl.com

A2

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

Skyway Lanes A5

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

Premier Bowling & Recreation Center

11400 E. State Route 350, Raytown, MO 816.356.5955 $ www.PremierBowl.com

SPORTS

SPORTS

5037 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, KS 913.727.6650 $ A1 www.SkywayLanes.com

Sterling Bowl

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

D3

Strikerz Entertainment Center

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

Summit Lanes C3

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

D4

The Community’s College Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Visit FREE exhibitions with international, national and regional artwork, enjoy free guided tours or enroll in classes (ages 5-11).

Visit www.nermanmuseum.org

Performing Arts Series

We’ve got the

DISH

on where your kids EAT FREE IN KC!

KIDS EAT FREE DINING GUIDE AT

KCPARENT.COM

2014-2015 season includes blues legend Buddy Guy with his protégé Quinn Sullivan, country music’s Clint Black, smooth jazz trumpet wizard Chris Botti and Kansas City icon Marilyn Maye!

Visit www.jccc.edu/TheSeries

Youth Classes, Sports Clinics and Driver Education Learning opportunities for children, pre-teens and teens abound at JCCC. Visit www.jccc.edu/youth

Credit and Continuing Education Classes JCCC credit and continuing education programs offer opportunities for fun, career development and exploring personal interests.

Visit www.jccc.edu/classes

12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kansas 66210 www.jccc.edu • 913-469-8500

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

59

Oceans of Fun

SPORTS

lenging set of rails, ramps and sliders anywhere in the US. All skill levels are encouraged, so head out to KCW this summer and enjoy some fun in the sun! 

KCMO Parks & Rec Outdoor Pools

Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Brush Creek Blvd., KC, MO 816.784.4513 $ 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: 67th St. & 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 Ward Parkway Lanes

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

C3

Z Strike

1370 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.2316 $ www.Z-Strike.com

C3

Outdoor Pools and Water Parks Adventure Oasis Water Park

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.

The Bay Water Park

7101 Longview Rd., KC, MO 816.850.2628 $ 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 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org 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.BlueSpringsGov.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 zerodepth 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.

Frontier Pool

15909 W. 127th St., Olathe, KS 913.971.5349 $-$$ www.OlatheKS.org/ParksRec

60 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

B4

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 913.856.8206 $ 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, spray grounds and a tot pool.

Gladstone Municipal Pool

Central Park, 69th & N. Holmes, Gladstone, MO 816.436.2299 $ C2 www.Gladstone.mo.us This pool features zero-depth entry, spray ground, 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.

 FEATURED LISTING KC Watersports See ad on pg. 65.

25825 Edgemore Rd., Paola, KS 913.783.4300 $ A3 KC Watersports is the best wakeboarding destination in the Midwest.

For beginners, they offer day camps and lessons to perfect your skills. For experts, you won’t find a more chal-

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.SWIM $ B3 Flat Rock Creek Pool: 103rd & Hauser, Lenexa, KS Brand new in 2012 $ 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 Marty, 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.

Meadowmere Pool

13610 Byars Rd., Grandview, MO 816.316.4888 $ C3 www.Grandview.org Features include an outdoor pool with tube slides, lily pad and diving boards.

 FEATURED LISTING Oceans of Fun See ad on pg. 5.

4545 NE Worlds of Fun Dr., 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 admission. Every guest will have access to 235 acres of rides, shows and attractions, complete with a massive water park. 

6040 Slater, Merriam, KS 913.322.5550 $$ 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 $-$$

www.OlatheKS.org The pool features a water slide, zerodepth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.

Mission Municipal Pool

6090 Woodson Rd., Mission, KS 913.722.8207 $-$$ B3 www.Mission-KS.org This large outdoor pool also has an additional kiddie pool.

B4

JUST WHAT YOU WANT THE BEST WEEKEND PLANNER FOR FAMILY FUN IN KC! JOIN THE 15,000 PEOPLE WHO ALREADY ENJOY OUR WEEKLY E-NEWS.

1800 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 $

Riverside Community Center Pool

4498 NW High Dr., Riverside, MO 816.935.0388 $ 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 & play area for everyone.

Roeland Park Aquatic Center

Oregon Trail Pool

Merriam Aquatic Center

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.

SPORTS

Sporting KC

B3

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.

Timmy used to be allergic to his dog, but no more!

Pet Alle rgy

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61

SPORTS

 FEATURED LISTING Schlitterbahn Waterpark See ad on pg. 66.

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 40acre 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. 

Splash Cove

5800 King Ave, Shawnee, KS 913.631.7177 $-$$ B4 www.CityOfShawnee.org Splash Cove features a mini wave

Skate City

pool, 125-foot full body slide, interactive playground features, instructional pool, WiFi access and a party cabana.

Super Splash USA

53rd Pl. & 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.

Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center 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.

The Springs Aquatic Center

9400 N. Congress, KC, MO 816.880.0279 $ B2 www.KCMO.org 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.

Summit Waves

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.

Young’s Pool

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.

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 $ www.BlueValleyRec.org

B5

Centennial Pool Plex

903 W. Main St., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0110 $ D4 www.BlueSpringsGov.com

CoCo Key Water Resort

Holiday Inn KC Sports Complex: 9103 E. 39th St., KC, MO 816.737.0200 $$ www.CocoKeyKansasCity.com 62 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

C3

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 $ www.Gladstone.mo.us

C2

Great Wolf Lodge

10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 866.640.6353 $$ 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 $ www.CI.Harrisonville.MO.us

C5

Henley Aquatic Center

1231 Windsor St., Indep, MO 816.521.5377 $ www4.Indep.k12.mo.us/Henley/

D3

Jewish Community Center of Greater KC 5801 W. 115th St., OP, KS 913.327.8000 $ www.JCCKC.org

B5

KC MO Parks & Rec Community Centers with Indoor Pools

Gregg/Klice Community Center: 1600 E. 17th Ter., KC, MO 816.784.1135 $ Southeast Community Center: 3601 E. 63rd St., KC, MO 816.784.3200 $ Tony Aguirre Community Center: 2050 W. Pennway Ter., KC, MO 816.784.1300 $ www.KCMO.org

C3 C3 C3

KC YMCA Locations with Indoor Pools www.KansasCityYMCA.org Atchison Family YMCA: 321 Commercial, Atchison, KS 913.367.4948 $ Blue Springs Family YMCA: 1300 Adams Dairy Pkwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.224.9620 $ Bonner Springs Family YMCA: 410 N. Bluegrass Dr. # B, Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.9348 $ Indep Family YMCA: 14001 E. 32nd St., Indep, MO 816.254.9622 $ Miami County Family YMCA: 300 11th St., Osawatomie, KS

A1

D4

A2 D3

Legacy Park Community Center

901 NE Bluestem Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1550 $ www.CityOfLS.net

D4

D2

Matt Ross Community Center

8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 $ www.OPKansas.org

B4

Park Hill Aquatic Center 8152 N. Congress Ave., KC, MO 816.741.7963 $ www.Parkhill.K12.MO.us

B1

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

Indoor Skate Park

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.

B & D South Skate Center 13903 E. Noland Ct., Indep, MO 816.252.1084 $ www.BandDSouth.com

D4

D2

C2

Skate City Legends

7838 Washington Ave., KC, KS 913.788.7788 $ www.SkateCityLegends.com

A3

B3

Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20070 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.568.2498 $ www.SkateZoneKC.com

GP: Most FUN place to visit in KC? Leslie: Again, Paradise Park!

GP: Most BEAUTIFUL place to visit in KC? Leslie: Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

B3

GP: Favorite spring tradition in KC? Leslie: Visiting Powell Gardens, enjoying the beautiful colors of spring.

B4

GP: Favorite summer tradition in KC? Leslie: Visiting one of the many lakes around Kansas City.

Skate City South

10440 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.888.6668 $ www.SkateCityKansas.com

GP: Best place to lunch in KC? Leslie: Webster House.

GP: When you think of KC, you think of ____?

Leslie: Fountains!

Skate City Shawnee

9800 W. 62nd Ter., Shawnee, KS 913.262.0711 $ www.SkateCityShawnee.com

GP: Best place to dine on a date in KC? Leslie: EBT. GP: Best place to dine with kids in KC? Leslie: T-Rex Café.

River Roll Skate Center

4720 NW Gateway Ave., KC, MO 816.587.0131 $ www.RiverRoll.com

Leslie Grossman, administrative assistant at Paradise Park, is responsible for group sales, including corporate group sales, fundraisers and educational field trips. Leslie also is involved in Lee’s Summit Optimist Club.

GP: Best place to go for a stroll in KC? Leslie: Country Club Plaza.

Northland Rolladium 1020 Kent St., Liberty, MO 816.792.0590 $ www.SkateLiberty.net

Paradise Park

D3

Landmark Skate Center 701 SW Oldham Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.2000 $ www.Landmark2Skate.com

INSIDE SCOOP: LESLIE GROSSMAN

GP: Your favorite place to visit with kids in KC? Leslie: Paradise Park. It has so many fun attractions/activities to do with kids, and it’s very affordable.

Skate Zone KC

K C Indoor Skate Park

9701 W. 67th St., Merriam, KS 913.262.1234 $

Rock Wall Climbing

Roller Skating Rinks

Liberty MO Community Center 1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ www.CI.Liberty.MO.us

www.KCSkatePark.com Enjoy KC’s indoor skateboard park.

SPORTS

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 Richard C. Green, Sr. Family YMCA: 10301 E. 350 Hwy., KC, MO 816.737.3744 $ C4 Vivion Road Family YMCA: 1101 NE 47th St., KC, MO 816.453.6600 $ C2

A5

GP: Must-see KC attraction for out-of-town guests?

Leslie: The National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial.

The top of the tower offers the best 360-degree view of Kansas City.

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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SPORTS

Watson’s Rolladium Skate Center 513 SW Keystone Dr., Blue Springs, MO 816.229.7793 $

9701 W. 137th St., OP, KS 913.685.6000 $ www.BlueValleyRec.org Hit at outdoor batting cages.

D4

Wheel Thing Skate Center 1719 Metropolitan Ave., Leavenworth, KS 913.682.7677 $ www.RollinFun.com

A1

Winnwood Skate Center 4426 NE Winn Rd., KC, MO 816.452.1171 $ www.WinnwoodSk8.com

68’s Inside Sports

9111 Flint, OP, KS 913.894.4752 $ B4 www.68InsideSports.com Indoor batting cages offer fun and practice.

14570 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.971.6263 $ A5 www.OlatheKS.org Outdoor batting cages and outdoor miniature golf.

Blue Valley Rec Batting Cages

The Fieldhouse of Kansas City

12140 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.897.4667 $ B5 www.FieldhouseofKC.com State-of-the art basketball, volleyball, and gym facility.

Golf Club of Kansas C2

Batting Cages & Sports Complexes

Blackbob Batting Cages

B5

18145 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 913.888.4894 $ B4 www.GCOfKansas.com Enjoy outdoor batting cages.

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 816.942.0505 $ C5 www.MartinCitySports.com Batting cages, as well as driving range, miniature golf, volleyball, paintball and more.

North & Main Batting Cages:

Splash Cove

Mid-America Sports Complex

20000 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.441.2244 $ A4 www.JCPRD.com Outdoor batting cages offer up fun and practice.

Regal Athletic

121 E. 10th Ave., North KC, MO 816.256.2448 $ C2 www.RegalAthletic.com Try out the indoor batting cages and bull pen.

Triple Play Baseball Softball Academy

1315 SW 40 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.220.7529 $ D4 Indoor batting cages are available.

The Yard

624B NE Jones Industrial Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.525. 9273 $ D4 http://TheYardKC.com Indoor baseball and softball facility.

Miniature Golf

Shoal Creek Driving Range & Batting Cages

Aaron’s Family Fun Center

5757 NE 96th St., KC, MO 816.734.9595 $ C1 www.ShoalCreekDrivingRange.com Visit the outdoor batting cages and golf course.

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.

Sports City

Cool Crest

Tom Urquhart’s School of Baseball

Cosmic Mini Golf

425 NE Mock Ave., Blue Springs, MO 816.229.1314 $ D3 www.SportsCityKC.com Indoor batting cages, indoor black light miniature golf, throwing tunnels and indoor soccer offer family fun.

7875 Mastin Dr., OP, KS 913.385.2255 $ B4 www.385ball.com Improve your skills at indoor pitching tunnels, batting cages and field.

10735 E. US Hwy. 40, Indep, MO 816.358.0088 $ D3 www.CoolCrest.com Four full 18-hole miniature golf courses, a 7000-square-foot video game arcade, a full pizzeria and restaurant, go-karts, batting cages and more!

Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20080 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.764.5565 $ A5 www.GlowMiniGolf.com Indoor miniature golf features glow-inthe-dark black light effects.

Family Golf Park

1501 SW US Hwy. 40, 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 is hosted by Great Wolf Lodge.

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 913.268.7200 $ B3 www.PowerPlayKC.com Cosmic bowling, arcade games, whirly ball and more.

64 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

10195 Monticello Ter., Lenexa, KS 913.782.1323 $ B4 www.SmileysGolf.com Outdoor miniature golf features beautiful gardens and fun hazards.

Tiki Hut Mini Putt

8500 W. 151st St., Stanley, KS 913.851.1700 $ B5 www.IncredABowl.com Indoor mini golf has a tropical theme at the Incred-A-Bowl Family Fun Center.

Pro, Semi-Pro and College Sports

www.Royals.MLB.com Visit The K to watch KC’s professional baseball team.

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

Paintball

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 816.478.2255 $$ D3 www.CometsIndoorSoccer.com Kansas City’s indoor soccer team.

280 Paintball

KC Explorers

11611 Hickman Mills Dr., KC, MO 816.767.1650 $ C5 www.280Paintball.com Try out the indoor paintball field.

Drop Zone Paintball

811 E. 23rd St., Lawrence, KS 785.841.1884 $ A3 www.DropZonePaintball.com Outdoor paintball fields offer excitement.

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.

301 W. 13th St. #100, KC, MO 816.513.5630 $$ C3 www.KCExplorers.com Enjoy Kansas City’s world-class tennis team in action.

KC Renegades

Kemper Arena, 1701 American Royal Ct., KC, MO 816.287.0523 $$ C3 www.KCRenegades.com Indoor Football Team.

KC Royals

Kauffman Stadium: 1 Royal Way, KC, MO 816.921.8000

$$

C3

KC T-Bones Community America Ballpark: 1800 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.328.2255 $ A3 www.TBonesBaseball.com KC’s independent professional baseball team offers a great family outing.

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 913.299.2040 $ A3 www.LakesideSpeedway.net The half-mile dirt track is part of NASCAR’s weekly racing series.

MU Athletics

SPORTS

Smiley’s Golf

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

1699 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.387.3400 $$ A3 www.SportingKC.com Cheer for KC’s outdoor soccer team.

Thunder Lake Speedway

5501 Wolcott Dr., KC, KS 913.299.2323 $ A3 www.ThunderLakeSpeedway.com Oval dirt go-kart track features driving classes for all ages.

UMKC Kangaroos

Various locations $$ C3 www.UMKCKangaroos.com College teams include basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, cross country, track & field and volleyball.

Day Camps - Lessons Surf Club -Birthday Parties Private Rentals New & Used Boats 2 Cable Systems - Fun Lake Boat House Pizzeria

www.kcwatersports.com KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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66 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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EXPLORE KANSAS

CITY ZOO Watch Polar Bears Flip and Splash at Polar Bear Passage, Penguins Waddle and dive at Helzberg Penguin Plaza and much, much more!

Always a new adventure!

2014 FOTZ Memberships NOW AVAILABLE! kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234 68 kc going places | spring & summer 2014

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.