KC Going Places Magazine Spring/Summer 2015

kansas city’s #1 attraction guide

spring/summer 2015

kcgoingplaces.com

500+

thrill seekers KC style

ways to explore

Kansas City

free fun

for everyone choose-your-own

KC adventure

memorable

midwest day trips

discover KC’s

hidden gems watch it made in KC

family favorite attractions

kcgoingplaces.com

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physicians

lee’s

summit

group

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

trust.

healthcare you can 2

kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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

Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun One Park, One Price, Twice the Thrills...

NEW in 2015

More Reason’s to Visit in 2015 • World Wine & Food Festival May 9, 10, 16

For your best price on tickets order 3 days in advance at: WorldsofFun.com

• All American Barbeque & Brew Festival June 13, 14, 20, 21 • Celebrate America – Fireworks every Friday & Saturday in July

worldsoffun.com • 816.454.4545 • Kansas City, MO © 2015 Peanuts Worldwide LLC, Peanuts.com Cedar Fair Entertainment Company® © 2015 Cedar Fair, L.P. WF15-119

the ultimate guide to family fun in KC

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33 FEATURES 8 Tour the Town

Eight itineraries for every interest 18

Must-See KC 12 events you don’t want to miss

27

U-Pick Farms Fresh fruit at your fingertips

32

A Kansas City Choose-Your-Own Adventure Personalize your experience

34

Local Legends Meet our most famous residents

36

Yummy Brunch Dine at the best brunch spots in town

50

Hidden Gems Uncovering our best-kept secrets

56

50 Sensational Ways to Savor Summer Make the most of the season

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kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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OUT & ABOUT 12 Thrill Seekers...

Adventures in KC 14 The History of Our Fountains PLAYTIME 22 Tips for Play Places with Kids 23 Indoor Fun 26 Outdoor Fun

28 29 29 30 31

NATURE Animal Appreciation Animal Attractions Plants & Gardens Nature Centers Beaches & Boating

42 43 43 44 48 49

MUSEUMS Only in Kansas City Arts Children’s Museums History Science Special Interest

SHOWTIME 52 Theater Season 53 Dance, Music & Theater

58 59 60 63 64

SPORTS Trivia Bowling Pools and Waterparks Miniature Golf Pro, Semi-Pro and College Sports

editor’s letter Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Managing Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com

I

have a confession. I have been a diehard fan of my hometown my whole life. Everyone who knows me knows that I love Kansas City— with a passion! I love living here. I love raising my kids here. I love the museums, the history, the galleries, the parks, the theater, the Plaza…

Sometimes I even think I have barbecue sauce coursing through my veins. Okay, that may be a stretch, but you get the idea.

This summer, I can’t wait to take my children to see Mary Poppins at Starlight. We’re planning another overnight with the penguins at the Kansas City Zoo—this time we’ve invited cousins! And it wouldn’t be summer without Celebration at the Station and the Powell Gardens Festival of Butterflies.

As Kansas City is changing and improving with the times, so is KC Going Places, a product of the KC Parent Magazine family. This year, we upgraded our website at www.KCParent.com. You’ll enjoy digital guides to the 500+ attractions our city has to offer and a robust calendar of events, along with editorial sharing our favorite tips and tricks to enjoy the best our city has to offer. Just visit www.KCParent.com to make the most of your visit.

Exploring and enjoying all the city has to offer is exactly what KC Going Places is all about. Whether you’ve lived in Kansas City your entire life or you’re a new visitor, you’ll find something wonderful to discover in KC this year!

Editor Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Ted Massing Advertising@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Margaret Bristow (Kansas City) Tisha Foley (Belton) Lauren Greenee (Olathe) Rebecca Ishum (Kansas City) Karen Johnsn (Olathe) Sara Keenan (Kansas City) Kate Meadows (Louisburg) Micah Moore (Leawood) 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:

Kristina Light, Editor

Cover photo: The Patriot roller coaster at Worlds of Fun Photo credit: Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun

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kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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.

Visit LStourism.com for upcoming events

Memories...

“Judge travel destinations by the density of memories they create” - James Fallows Throughout our lifetime, we take in millions of images and moments that we hold onto as memories.

These memories become our personal keepsakes and live on within us forever. Lee’s Summit is the place where memories are created each and every day. Come visit us and make a few of your own.

Yours Truly, TM

getting to know kansas city: best of kansas city

watch it made tours

country club plaza

the roasterie

A visit to Kansas City would be incomplete without enjoying some of Kansas City’s sensational signatures and the landmarks that celebrate them.

The Country Club Plaza, modeled after the architecture of Seville, Spain, is one of Kansas City’s most recognized sites and home to many of the city’s most beautiful fountains, best restaurants and shops—and an ideal backdrop for family photos.

Union Station Kansas City marked its 100th anniversary in 2014 and is truly one of the city’s best-loved attractions.

Currently home to Science City, the Gottlieb Planetarium, Amtrak and local shops and restaurants, the station remains a premier visitor attraction.

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

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

Kansas City knows barbecue, and that means sweet, tangy sauce dripping from ribs and burnt ends with a side of slaw and pit beans. Every local has a favorite, from Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Gate’s to Arthur Bryant’s. Visitors enjoy tasting them all and finding their personal favorite.

Take a free 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, known for selling premier air-roasted coffee. The business offers one of the most interesting free tours in town. Visitors watch as coffee goes from bean to brew. Call 816.931.4000 for reservations.

Boulevard Brewery offers a free 40-minute walking tour of their production facility, where visitors witness the brewing process and sample Boulevard beers in the tasting room.

Experience the story of Kansas City’s own Hallmark, from its founding in 1910 to today. Visit the Hallmark Visitor’s Center 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, 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 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 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.

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kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

tour the town!

FREE fun for the family

dive into fun

kidscape

great wolf lodge

If you’re looking for fun on a budget, Kansas City offers many terrific free attractions the entire family will enjoy.

Kauffman Memorial Gardens is a free botanical garden in the heart of the city. It is perfect for a stroll and local photography. Something is always blooming, and the fountains make a beautiful centerpiece to the landmark.

Enjoy Sprint Family Fun Days events the second Saturday of each month, May-October (www.powerandlightdistrict.com). The monthly festival features a new theme with fun activities for the children, including live entertainment, crafts, carnival games, booths and more.

Visit Kaleidoscope, a free hands-on art center for children, where imaginations know no limit as kids create jigsaw puzzles, glow-in-the-dark art, crowns and more.

KidScape, a free exhibit at the Johnson County Museum, is an interactive kid-sized city with a hospital, city hall, theater, shops and park. Kids love to play and explore the adult world through their eyes.

The Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead depicts a turnof-the-century farm at an incredible 12-acre park with more than 200 farm animals, gardens, a dairy barn, pony rides and much more. Best of all, admission to the farm is free Monday-Thursday and only $2/person Friday-Sunday!

Summer in Kansas City is the season for free outdoor concerts, movies in the park and a variety of festivals. Visit www.KCParent.com and click on the calendar for the latest in free summer fun.

These are just a few of our favorite budget-friendly ideas for family fun in Kansas City. Click coupons on www.KCParent.com for savings on local attractions and search “50 ideas under $5” on www.KCParent.com for more summer fun on a shoestring. Also, subscribe to the newsletter on www.KCParent.com, which will deliver ideas to your inbox every week.

Setting records, Schlitterbahn is home to the world’s tallest, fastest and steepest waterslide, Verrückt. This outdoor water park features water roller coasters, rapid river rides, great water attractions and a kid section for young visitors.

The metro’s original outdoor water park, Oceans of Fun, also offers fantastic attractions for all ages, including Aruba Tuba, Surf City Wave Pool, Buccaneer Bay, Coconut Cove and the new Splash Island. A ticket to Oceans of Fun includes Worlds of Fun as well.

Your kids will have the time of their lives at Kansas City’s water resort, Great Wolf Lodge. The 84-degree indoor water park boasts more than 38,000 square feet of waterpacked excitement, including jaw-dropping slides for thrill seekers and zero-depth entry areas for little ones.

Another favorite is CoCo Key, featuring 55,000 square feet of indoor fun with a wading pool, slides, fast tube rides, activity pools and more! Discover more great local pools and water parks starting on pg. 60.

KC Watersports (25825 Edgemore Rd., Paola, KS, 913.783.4300) offers the best wakeboarding destination in the Midwest. Their 7.5-acre cable lake is home to a fivetower 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.

If you crave some sand between your toes, you’ll find swim beaches at several local lakes listed on pg. 31, or 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 US 40 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO, 816.224.4455).

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getting to know kansas city: family favorites

foodie favorites

legoland discovery center

a thyme for everything

Kansas City is the place to be for the young and the young-at-heart. Lego, one of the most popular children’s toys for generations, is celebrated at Legoland Discovery Center in Crown Center. Begin your journey on a ride into the unknown on laser chariots. Play with the world’s biggest box of Legos. Watch a film in the Lego Studios 4D cinema and explore a miniature Kansas City that highlights 10 of our most popular local attractions in Lego Miniland.

Your imagination will run wild in this new family favorite!

One of Kansas City’s original favorites is the National Museum for Toys & Miniatures. The museum is undergoing a great renovation and will reopen with new and improved exhibits on Aug. 1. Visitors of all ages enjoy the collection of dolls, dollhouses and historic toys in more than 30 rooms to explore.

For traditional family fun, visit one of Kansas City’s family fun centers. Miniature golf, go-karts and arcades are all the rage at Cool Crest. Mission Bowl offers cosmic bowling and arcades. At Paradise Park in Lee’s Summit, your family will enjoy bonding as you fire foam balls at one another with air-compressed machine guns in the Foam Factory! While you’re there, climb a rock wall or explore the Children’s Edutainment Center, with everything from a miniature grocery store and bank, to an indoor water play exhibit and art center with face paints and special projects for kids. For more great indoor play, visit Monkey Bizness, Little Monkey Bizness or Amazing Play indoor fun centers, with great play equipment for children to enjoy. Sky Zone in Shawnee is an indoor trampoline park with special play hours and packages for all ages from toddlers to teens.

Wonderscope Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits for young kids. The Lego Ocean Adventure includes a Lego submarine inside which children can play. Other exhibits include H2O Water Play, a child-sized grocery store, raceways where children race golf balls on wooden tracks and much more.

If you are a foodie at heart, check out these favorite foodie destinations right in the heartland: Begin with a visit to Powell Gardens Heartland Harvest Garden (1609 NW US Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO, 816.697.2600, www.PowellGardens.org). Set on 12 acres, the Heartland Harvest Garden is the largest edible landscape in the United States.

Then, enjoy a bit of shopping. Kansas City boasts many delightful shops specializing in the best gadgets, tools and tips for the budding chef in you! Pryde’s of Old Westport (www.prydeskitchen.com), a family-owned Kansas City original since 1968, specializes in gourmet housewares and kitchen and home accessories. A Thyme for Everything (229 SE Main St., Lee’s Summit, MO, 816.554.3755) is a quaint shop in Lee’s Summit offering gourmet ingredients, kitchen tools and cookbooks. Kitchen Thyme (4169 N. Mulberry Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.587.9100) features a unique blend of kitchen accessories, cookware, bakeware, gadgets, cookbooks and gourmet food items. Now You’re Cookin’ (109 Main St., Parkville, MO, 816.505.2338) has the cozy feel of Grandma’s kitchen.

The Culinary Center of Kansas City (7920 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS, 913.341.4455, www.kcculinary.com) offers more than 450 contemporary classes and demonstrations in the culinary arts for all ages, interests and skill levels. Learn ethnic cooking, baking, basic kitchen skills, gourmet recipes and culinary classics.

Find the best spices and ingredients at these shops: Planters (City Market District: 513 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO, 816.842.3651, www.plantersseed.com) offers a vast selection of spices, mixes, teas, coffees and vinegars. Penzeys (7937 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS, 913.341.1775, www.penzeys.com) sells top quality spices from around the world.

For fresh produce, Kansas City is home to more than 30 farmers markets. Visit www.KCParent.com and search “Farmers Markets” for our complete guide.

10 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

tour the town! art appreciation

wild, wild west

puppetry arts institute

mahaffie stagecoach stop & farm

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

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

One of the more unique art museums in the area is the Puppetry Arts Institute, where visitors learn about puppets from around the world and Hazelle Hedges Rollins, founder of a Kansas City-based puppet company in 1932.

The museum shows monthly puppet performances. After shows, kids may sign up to make their own hand puppet.

Create family keepsakes at Paint, Glaze and Fire, Ceramics Cafe and more paint-your-own pottery shops.

Patrons select and paint their own ceramic masterpieces— anything from piggy banks to plates, mugs to picture frames and many holiday pieces as well. You can learn skills from painting to pottery, stained glass to sculpture at the Kansas City Art Institute.

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 by following simple step-by-step instructions. One of our favorites, Thirsty Palette in Leawood, offers adult and kid projects.

Customers sign up for a class, bring their own beverage and spend an evening creating a personal work of art to take home and display. Read our guide to “Canvas Shops” on www.KCParent.com.

Kansas City is no longer the cow town it once was, but it holds its cowboy heritage dear, with many local traditions.

Most notable is the American Royal, which hosts rodeos, agricultural competitions and education through programs and the American Royal Museum. The American Royal also hosts the world’s largest barbecue contest, an appropriate event for Kansas City, the barbecue capital of the nation.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm in Johnson County brings 1850s farming to life with tours and programs all year, including stagecoach rides, family programs and a working blacksmith shop. On Thursdays in June and July enjoy free family fun in the evenings with living history programs designed for kids.

Learn firsthand about life in the 1850s on a tour of the John Wornall House Museum or the Alexander Majors House, home of the founder of the Pony Express. Missouri Town 1855 and Shoal Creek Living History Museum are two historic villages teaching pioneer life through fun events, festivals and programs. Shawnee Town 1929 is a slightly more modern village where families explore living history firsthand.

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

Horse lovers will enjoy a day trip to Boonville, just over an hour from Kansas City, for a tour of Warm Springs Ranch, a state-of the art Clydesdale breeding facility and home of the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

Grab the family and head to Antioch Park where children enjoy playing in a pretend Wild West Village with child-sized buildings including a school, home and old town businesses. For more great parks in the metro, visit www.KCParent.com.

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OUT & ABOUT

e k e e s l l adventures in i r r s … th Kansas City

By Kristina Light

S

how your family a screamingly good time at one of these thrilling adventures in Kansas City.

Embark on an adventure soaring to new heights, plunging to new depths and traveling at incredible speeds in Kansas City this year.

Soar to New Heights: A Walk on the Mild Side: Hot Air Balloon Rides If you’re looking for a thrill that is safe, serene and peaceful (yes, peaceful), then hot air ballooning is the adventure for you. Passengers float above rooftops as they enjoy a breathtaking view. Old World Balloonery (913.338.2628, www.oldworldballoonery.com) offers rides for passengers ages 10 and up, and KC Balloon (913.649.2359, www.kcballoon.com) requires a minimum age of 12.

Adventure Zip

A Walk on the Wild Side: Zip Line, Rappel and Ropes Challenge Courses At TimberRidge Adventure Center (913.856.8849, http://jcprd.com/parks_facilities/timberridge.cfm) in Olathe, groups can experience an eagle’s eye view of nature through challenge courses at the center’s certified ropes course, 200-foot zip line and the Eagle’s Nest 40foot climbing tower with two different sides for climbing, a dangle-duo and vertical play pen, and rappelling. At TimberRidge, you also may enjoy hiking, fishing, archery, canoeing and paddle-boating. This is a great adventure for Scout groups, families and even businesses.

Or, head to Adventure Zip KC (913.302.8881, http://adventurezipkc.com) in Bonner Springs, where you can enjoy a 143-acre park with a 300-foot elevation change. They offer a variety of zip line tours with up to five zip lines and a mix of hiking and zip lining for an unbelievable and unforgettable adventure.

12 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

A Walk on the Mild Side: Learning Adventures Sailing and Scuba Diving

adventures are endless. Ride through an interconnected river system that takes guests through more than a mile of rapids, currents and tidal waves. Enjoy waterslides and a water coaster and ride the waves on the surf ride. For little ones, the Kids Splash area offers 13 mini-slides.

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, www.jacomosailingclub.org) or on Lake Perry in Kansas with Clifton’s Columbus School of Sail (913.220.5177, http://cdjr.org/sailing/). 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.

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, http://adventuresportskc.com/), KC Dive Shop (913.677.3483, www.kcdiveshop.com), Midwest Aquatics (913.402.0403, www.midwestaquatics.com) and Frogman Dive Center (816.200.2881, www.kansascityscubadiving.com) 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. The truly adventurous can even embark on a Caribbean trip.

Verrückt Waterslide, Schlitterbahn Waterpark

A Walk on the Wild Side: The World’s Tallest and Fastest Waterslide The world record-breaking Verrückt opened last summer with international attention. Now you can ride the tallest waterslide in the world at Schlitterbahn (913.334.5200, www.schlitterbahn.com/kansas-city). Adventure seekers strap into a four-person raft to slide down a jaw dropping 168-foot, 7-inch structure, only to be blasted back up a second massive hill and then sent down yet another gutwrenching 50-foot drop for the ultimate in waterslide thrills.

Verrückt isn’t the only attraction at this park where families have a blast. Parking is free, picnics are welcome and

Mamba Roller Coaster, Worlds of Fun

The Need for Speed: A Walk on the Mild Side: Seven World-Class Roller Coasters Kansas City’s own Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun (816.454.4545, www.worldsoffun.com) are two theme parks enjoyed for the price of one ticket. Worlds of Fun is a roller coaster enthusiast’s dream park! It’s home to seven world-class roller coasters, including one of the tallest, longest and fastest roller coasters in the world, the Mamba, with a first drop of 205 feet! The Patriot is a giant inverted coaster that carries the daring through four inversions at a top speed of 65 mph. The extremely daring can pay an extra fee to experience the Ripcord, a Sky Coaster attraction that sends riders in a free-fall pendulum motion from 180 feet in the air at speeds of up to 80 mph. At Oceans of Fun, enjoy a huge water park with waterslides, rapids, an 800-foot rapids river and a wave pool.

A Walk on the Wild Side: Ride or Drive a Race Car at Kansas Speedway The Richard Petty Driving Experience (800.237.3889, www.drivepetty.com) at Kansas Speedway (913.328.3300, www.kansasspeedway.com) lets fans ride shotgun at speeds of up to 165 mph or get behind the wheel and drive a 600-horsepower NASCAR race car for eight to 18 laps. And now, even teens can get in on the action! The newest program gives teens ages 14 to 19 the opportunity to receive a complimentary three-lap high speed ridealong when accompanied by an adult.

This summer, before you wile away all your days reading peacefully on the lounge chair overlooking your favorite pool or lake, consider a break from your books and try a thrilling adventure you’ll never forget.

kcgoingplaces.com 13

OUT & ABOUT

Make a Splash:

OUT & ABOUT

History

By Micah Moore

Does our Midwestern town really hold the second most fountains in the world?

The inspiration for our fountains came from the city that has the most fountains in the world: Rome. It all started with Kansas City native Harold Rice and a trip to Rome.

While sitting next to his wife and admiring the famous Trevi Fountain, he had the idea that started it all. What would happen if he brought this culture of fountains to Kansas City?

Upon his return home, he wasted no time pursuing his dream.

Rice founded the City of Fountains Association in 1973. While Kansas City already had quite a few fountains, this marked the first effort to grow and maintain our current fountains.

But the biggest explosion of fountain growth happened in the beginning of the 20th century on the Plaza. The first fountain to be placed there was topped with a boy and fish.

The fountain has since been relocated to 79th & Paseo, but the boy and fish have disappeared.

J.C. Nichols was so instrumental in creating the fountains and architecture in Kansas City that one of our most iconic fountains is named after him. Located at 47th & J. C. Nichols

Parkway, this fountain was sculpted by Henri Greber in 1910 and bought by the Nichols family, refurbished and dedicated in 1960. The four horsemen are said to represent the four rivers of the world. The Mississippi is represented by an Indian, the Volga is represented with a bear, while the Seine and Rhine horses are on the east and west sides. This winter the statues were removed for the fountain’s first major renovation in more than 50 years.

Nichols isn’t the only person honored with a fountain, however. The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Fountain, located at Broadway & 42nd St., portrays the differing opinions of this time by creating two pools of water and featuring a backdrop with the names of 451 casualties. This elegant fountain is not as well known but still is a must-see.

I would be remiss if I didn’t include one of the fountains that honors our public servants. The Firefighters Fountain is located at West 31st St. & Broadway and is a beautiful memorial that features two bronze firefighters looking over an 80-foot-wide basin. This memorial was built specifically to honor the six firefighters killed in an explosion in 1988.

of Kansas City Fountains J.C. Nichols Fountain at the Country Club Plaza 14 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

All photos courtesy of VistKC.com

OUT & ABOUT

The Liberty Courtyard Fountain is another must-see fountain. Located at 101 E. Kansas St. in Liberty, it features cascading water that spills into a beautiful infinity pool. It was dedicated to the city of Liberty in 1989. One of our most beautiful natural fountains is in Mill Creek Sanctuary.

This eco water garden features two natural waterfalls and is home to many water-loving birds. There is even an overlook on the east side that allows you to watch the wildlife.

Do you need something bigger to wow you?

Kansas City has you covered. The Shirley Bush Helzberg Fountain at Starlight Theatre in Swope Park features 10 cascades of water, 20-foot-tall pillars, and measures 180 feet long.

Don’t forget about the kids either. While Crown Center no longer permits playing in the fountains, Kansas City is home to many spraygrounds to keep your kids cool this spring and summer. Loose Park (52nd Ter. & Summit St.) has a beautiful sprayground guaranteed to keep your children entertained during the warm weather. Long View Tract (7101 Longview Rd.) and Blue Valley Park (Blue Valley Parks Rd. E. & 23rd St.) are just a couple of the other spraygrounds in the Kansas City area for you and your kids to enjoy.

Turns out it’s actually hard to keep track of how many fountains we have in Kansas City, as we are always adding new ones, and there is no way to really track ones that are privately owned. At last count though, Kansas City is home to more than 200 fountains that we know of. Impressive, considering that Rome, with its roots in antiquity, has approximately 280 fountains!

Spirit of Freedom Fountain on Cleveland Avenue

Children’s Fountain on North Oak Trafficway kcgoingplaces.com 15

OUT & ABOUT

Discover Storyland Fun in Kansas City: exploring childhood favorites

A

favorite childhood book is never forgotten and is often treasured and shared with the next generation. Did you know you can celebrate many children’s classic tales throughout Greater Kansas City? Here are just a few fun suggestions:

Crown Center From May 23 to Sept. 7, be sure to take the kids to the free exhibit “Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites.”

Seven popular children’s picture books will be featured in a playful learning environment. Children up to age 8 will enjoy this fun attraction and will even get to create their own storybook art to take home with them!

Crown Center Shops Showplace, Level 1 2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO 816.274.8444

Beanstalk Children’s Garden Just like Peter in Beatrix Potter’s beloved The Tale of Peter Rabbit, children can discover the many wonderful foods a garden can produce! Here, children can use all of their senses to learn the benefits of six different types of gardens.

The Water Garden with its water lilies, fish and frogs is always a favorite. Perhaps you may even catch a glimpse of a flying frog on a lily pad, just like in David Wiesner’s Tuesday.

Leanna Flandermeyer Beanstalk Children’s Garden Kansas City Community Gardens 6917 Kensington Ave., Kansas City, MO 816.931.3877 *Bonus: You can see rabbits, frogs and many other cool critters at Science City’s Nature Center in Union Station.

Beanstalk Children’s Garden, KC Community Gardens 16 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Coming in ate Spring 2015

and much, much more!

s

What child doesn’t love the rhyming alphabet book by Bill Martin, Jr., and John Archambault, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom? Just like the alphabet in the story, your child (age 8 and up) can climb a tree safely at Stagecoach Park by taking a tree climbing lesson from the club Tree Climbing Kansas City. Classes are held in the oak in front of the community center.

Stagecoach Park 1205 N. Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 913.261.9707

Kansas City Zoo

Always ahunt New Your little one can go on a scavenger throughout the Kansas City Zoo to find each animal Spot’s mom sees while Adventure! searching for her puppy in the fun lift-the-flap children’s Kansas City Zoo

book Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill.

Kansaskansascityzoo.org City Zoo 816.595.1234 6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO 816.595.1234 The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with Kansas City, MO Board of ParksSpot and Recreation partially *Bonus:the Find your own

by Commissioners, adopting a funded dogby (or any the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the animal!) from one of Kansas City’s many animal rescue Association of Zoos and Aquariums. centers! Or take your own faithful companion to one of Kansas City’s awesome dog parks!

Kansas City Ice Center and Ice Pavilion Did you know that you can enjoy the thrills of winter, even at the height of a Kansas City summer? Well, you can at the Ice Sports Arena! Just like Peter in The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, kids can experience the fun cold weather can bring by taking skating lessons, catching an ice hockey tournament or by watching a figure skating freestyle session.

*Bonus: For the little ones, visit any Johnson County Library and check out the ABC 6 x 6 Program’s Learning Bag. It includes the book and several fun activities to go along with it!

Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium In Abuela by Arthur Dorros, young Rosalba imagines that she and her abuela are flying high above their city.

Have your child take his grandparent on a special trip to Stargaze Kansas City at Union Station to gaze at our own sky above Kansas City!

Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO 816.460.2020 *Bonus: After your trip to Union Station, hop on the Kansas City Fun Trolley and take a tour of our amazing city!

Don’t forget—these books, plus many other children’s favorites, can be found at your local library!

Margaret Bristow enjoys discovering new childhood favorites with her two boys in and around Kansas City.

Kansas City Ice Center 19900 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.441.3033

Shatto Milk Company Every child knows that milk and cookies go together! And the mouse in the delightful children’s book If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff knows this too! You and your family can view the farm-to-table journey of milk at the local dairy farm, Shatto Milk Company. You can feed a calf its bottle, then have a picnic and enjoy a cookie with a glass of fresh milk on the grounds after your tour of the dairy!

“And chances are if he asks for a glass of milk, he’s going to want a cookie to go with it.”

Shatto Farm 9406 N. Hwy. 33, Osborn, MO 64474 816.930.3862 *Bonus: Watch a cow being milked and then enjoy an ice cream cone in the big barn at Deanna Rose Farmstead!

Shatto Milk Company kcgoingplaces.com 17

OUT & ABOUT

Tree Climbing Kansas City

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NASCAR Races at Kansas Speedway May 8 and 9 (www.kansasspeedway.com).

May 8 World Truck Camping Series: See the tough trucks of NASCAR race at night at Kansas Speedway! May 9 Sprint Cup Series Under the Lights: See the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at night at Kansas Speedway! This is the first of two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Kansas Speedway in 2015. See the best in racing compete at this premier facility, located in the heart of the Midwest.

kansas city 12 must-sees in

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

t Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun open April 11 and May 23,

respectively (www.worldsoffun.com). Breathtaking views from towering coasters, adrenalin rushes from hair-raising thrill rides and a Planet Snoopy kids area with more than 20 Peanuts-themed attractions are just a few features enjoyed at Worlds of Fun. Oceans of Fun attracts thrill seekers with a new slide complex, renovated pools and slides, and new services. Now visitors enjoy both parks for the price of one ticket.

s Gridiron Glory at Union Station, in cooperation with the Kansas City Chiefs, opens May 23 (www.unionstation.org/football). Enjoy this summer-long traveling version of the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame. The exhibit includes more than 10,000 square feet of the most iconic pro football artifacts of all time. Additionally, a special 4,000-square-foot gallery with unique artifacts will pay tribute to the Kansas City Chiefs.

18 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

t Orangutan Canopy opens spring 2015 at the Kansas City Zoo (www.kansascityzoo.org).

Designed to highlight the fascinating aspects of orangutans, the 3,400-square-foot outdoor habitat will challenge the animals’ dexterity and intelligence. From the forest floor to the treetops, motivational tools will encourage instinctual behaviors. Zookeepers will conduct live demonstrations and training exercises to delight guests of all ages.

s Nature Connects 2 at Powell Gardens, May 2-Sept. 7 (www.powellgardens.org).

Amazing Lego brick artist Sean Kenney brings a completely new set of Lego sculptures to Powell Gardens. These colorful and intricate sculptures depict the complex and amazing networks of nature. In conjunction with the exhibit, enjoy discovery stations, building competitions, special programs and more.

s Kansas City Royals season begins April 6 (www.kansascityroyals.com). Watch the 2014 American League champions, the Kansas City Royals, play at beautiful Kauffman Stadium. Enjoy fireworks after the games on Friday nights.

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s

Old Shawnee Days at Shawnee Town 1929 on June 6 (www.shawneetown.org).

Visit Romeo and the ladies in Shawnee Town’s chicken coop, plant seeds in the garden, do laundry on a washboard, design your own building for our makebelieve town, play games in the schoolhouse, and design your own family tree.

kansas city 12 must-sees in

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

s Celebration at the Station May 24 at 8:00 p.m. (www.kcsymphony.org/Celebration). 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 beautiful display of fireworks of the year overlooking the National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial.

20 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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National Museum of Toys & Miniatures Reopens Aug. 1

(www.toyandminiaturemuseum.org).

New exhibits and interactive experiences will showcase the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collections of antique toys. A two-story rotating sculpture composed of small, donated playthings will greet visitors at their arrival. The assemblage recreates bedtime stories, fairy tales and imaginative play in whimsical scenes that envision how we once played with the toys. In a new introduction space, a short video will begin visitors’ journey through the art of the imagination.

t Family Day on the Farm at Shatto Dairy Farm (www.shattomilk.com) on June 20. The event is free to all and includes fun on the farm. Learn how Shatto milk gets from the cow to your local grocery store. Enjoy free samples and tastings, games, hayrides and more.

t Ethnic Enrichment Festival Aug. 21-23 at Swope Park

(www.eeckc.org). Feel the world beat in the heart of America.

This event is one of the largest festivals of its kind in the nation and features more than 60 different cultures selling their native foods and crafts and performing ethnic music and dances.

s Missouri State Fair Aug. 13-23 in Sedalia (www.mostatefair.com).

Celebrate Missouri’s agricultural heritage. 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 food.

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P L AY T I M E

Paradise Park

t

tips for fun outings with your kids

aking kids places is one of the best parts of parenting! It also can be one of the most stressful parts if you haven’t planned ahead. Just a few minutes of forethought can help make a fun outing even better!

for a snack break whenever you consider it a necessity.

Hungry kids are grumpy kids, and snacks are an easy way to head off grumpiness before it starts.

1. Go When It’s Slow

The last thing you want to worry about during a fun outing is keeping clothes clean. Let the kids fully enjoy themselves and keep a change of clothes in the car just in case! An apple juice soaked shirt is no match for a prepared mama!

Nobody likes a crowd! Make a quick call to your destination ahead of time to ask when their slowest times are.

Aim to show up for that period and make the most of a calmer, more enjoyable environment. Mornings are often the slowest, but call to verify the best time.

5. Bring a Change of Clothes

6. Go at Their Pace

As you are planning, remember that little ones still rely on their naps! Scheduling your outing around naptime will make for an all-around more pleasant experience. The best way to work fun into a nap schedule? Plan to leave for your adventure as soon as the kids get up in the morning or right after they finish their afternoon nap.

Don’t forget that adults and kids travel at different paces.

Go into your outing with the agenda of allowing your kids to enjoy the adventure at their own pace. Your frustration will be kept to a minimum if you mentally prepare NOT to see everything at your destination. Your kids will have more fun when they know that they won’t be dragged around and hurried on from their favorite parts. You always can come back and revisit the adventure again!

3. Photograph or Write Down What They Are Wearing

7. Plan Some Downtime

4. Pack Snacks

Rebecca Ishum lives in South KC with her husband, Sean, and their 4-year-old quadruplets. Read more about their family adventures at abeautifulruckus.com.

2. Plan Around Naptime

As closely as you watch your kids, you are wise to be prepared in case you get separated. Most people now have cameras in their phones that allow for a quick snapshot of what their kids are wearing that day. Don’t have a camera? Write down a detailed description of their clothing. If something happens, you won’t have to rack your memory.

You will have info ready to refer back to immediately.

Never rely on snack access at your destination! Instead, pack non-messy foods and a water bottle or sippy cup

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Don’t fill the day with too much. It’s better to have one really great adventure with the kids than to have two to three same-day adventures that feel stressful and rushed.

Remember that enjoying family time together is the most important thing. The act of living life together is as much a memory as the outing itself.

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. 65 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 816.994.2160 $ C2 http://amazingplayfuncenter.com/ Indoor play place with laser tag, laser maze, arcades and giant sky maze.

Apple Pie Painting

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

Art Experience.us at the MOD Gallery

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

Blanc Palette

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

Blue Valley Recreation

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

Build-A-Bear Workshop

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

Ceramic Cafe

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

Colors & Bottles

Various locations.

855.806.4114 $$ http://colorsandbottles.com Local artists teach students of all skill levels to create canvas masterpieces.

Hosted at local restaurants.

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.

Dare to Dabble

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

Summer PaintingFun Looking to add some color to your summer?

This summer, Thirsty Palette is offering Kids Painting Sessions on Friday afternoons for just $25! This includes all supplies required to paint, artist instruction and a whole lot of fun.

Jenny Ball, Owner

Perfect for camps, daycares, scouts, sports teams, and parents looking for something new and different for their child to experience this summer.

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

And, we still have our daily painting parties for adults. Check our calendar of events at www.ThirstyPalette.com.

913.669.0501 www.ThirstyPalette.com kcgoingplaces.com 23

P L AY T I M E

PLAYTIME

P L AY T I M E

Dave & Buster’s

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

Debbie Howard’s Gym

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

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.

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

A Flip Zone

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

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

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.

Got Art Gallery

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

Grapes & Paints

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

Gymboree Play & Music Prairie Village: 17 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.

Hook Gallery

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

I-49 Fun Center

17217 S. Outer Rd., Belton, MO 816.331.5867 $ C3 www.I-49FunCenter.com Indoor Inflatable play facility and birthday party venue.

Irene B. French Community Center Indoor Playground

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

KC Clay Guild

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

Kookiedoodle Crafts

7924 Santa Fe, OP, KS 913.387.4065 $ B4 www.KookiedoodleCrafts.com Kookiedoodle Crafts is a walk-in arts and crafts studio.

Lenexa Community Center “Gym for Me Program”

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

Little Monkey Bizness

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

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.

Thirsty Palette 24 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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, go-karts, miniature golf, bumper cars and laser tag add to the fun. 

Parkside Coffeehouse at Cedar Ridge Christian Church

8839 Lackman Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.393.3000 Free B4 www.cedarridge.cc/#/coffeehousefacility/parkside-coffeehouse (page for coffee house) or www.cedarridge.cc (church site). Coffee shop for parents and indoor play for tots! Gym, indoor playground equipment and ride-on toys.

Pinot’s Palette

P L AY T I M E

 FEATURED LISTING Paradise Park See ad on pg. 25.

5235 W. 116th Pl., Leawood, KS 913.451.7466 $$ B5 www.PinotsPalette.com An upscale “paint and sip” studio where painters are taught to create their own works of art.

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

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

Power Play Shawnee: 13110 W. 62nd Ter., Matt Ross Community Center Shwn Msn, KS 913.268.4386 $ B3 North: 509 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO Pump It Up Raytown International 816.268.4386 $ C1 Raceway 7230 W. Frontage Rd., Shwn Msn, KS www.PowerPlayKC.com 6133 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 913.236.7867 $ B3 Enjoy more than 80,000 square feet 816.353.7568 $ C3 www.PumpItUpParty.com of rides, laser tag, whirly ball, arcade www.RaytownInternationalRaceway.com Have fun in gigantic inflatable-filled games, bowling, go-karts, a toddler Race slot cars on a 1/24th scale quararenas for open play. Private party area and cosmic golf. ter mile drag strip, and a 155-ft. Blue rooms available as well.

King road course. Location sells and rents cars and controllers for the road course.

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A diverse mix of arcade games includes ticket redemption games, prize redemption games, video games, racing games, inflatables and many more.

Outdoor Adventures Adventure Zip KC

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

Belton Grandview and KC Railroad

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

KC Northern Railroad

Little Monkey Bizness 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.

Sky Zone

6495 Quivira Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.213.5900 $ A4 www.skyzone.com/kansascity Sky Zone is the original indoor trampoline park, bringing unmatched, outof-this-world and high-flyin’ FUN.

Spring Hill Community Center

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

Sylvester Powell Community Center Indoor Playground

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

 FEATURED LISTING Thirsty Palette See ad on pg. 23.

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

Tipsy Red Fox

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

Toddler Town

Roger T. Sermon Community Center: 201 N. Dodgion Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7370 $ D3 www.ci.independence.mo.us This program shuts down at the end of March and will resume when school begins in the fall.

Walls of Clay

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

26 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Westport Roanoke Community Center

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

Xtreme Gymnastics & Trampoline

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

Y.E.S! Kids Fitness

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

Zonkers

Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20070 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.393.3535 $ A5 www.Zonkers.com An indoor theme park for families with children of all ages.

Zonkers-Arcade

Oak Park Mall: 11149 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.894.6900 $ B4 www.ZonkersArcade.com

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

KC Timber Challenge

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

Midland Railway

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

 FEATURED LISTING Worlds of Fun See ad on pg. 3.

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

U-Pick Berry Patches and Fruit Orchards in the Kansas City Area: Alldredge Orchards Fruit: Apples Where: 10455 Hwy. N, Platte City, MO Phone: 816.330.3448 Web: www.AlldredgeOrchards.com Nearby: Visit Watkins Mill in Lawson, MO. Tip: This orchard is especially scenic, bring the camera to capture the great views.

Berries & More Fruit: Blueberries Where: 505 W. Lone Jack/ Lee’s Summit Rd., Lone Jack, MO Phone: 816.697.3400 Nearby: Powell Gardens Tip: No children under the age of 12 allowed at this u-pick patch.

The Berry Patch Fruit: Blueberries and blackberries Where: 22509 State Line Rd., Cleveland, MO Phone: 816.618.3771 Web: www.TheBerryPatchOnline.com Tip: The largest patch in the area, they update their phone line with the picking report regularly so you can visit on the prime picking days.

Cider Hill Fruit: Apples Where: 3341 N. 139th St., Kansas City, KS Phone: 913.721.2507 Web: www.CiderHillFamilyOrchard.com Nearby: The Legends Shopping Center.

Tip: Bring a fishing pole and picnic for a day of fun.

Cy and Dee’s Blackberry Farm Fruit: Blackberries Where: 28615 Rockville Rd., Louisburg, KS Phone: 913.731.2324 Nearby: Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary Tip: Make it a day trip and search “Louisburg” on www.KCParent.com for tips.

Gieringer’s Orchard Fruit: Strawberries, blackberries, peaches (other fresh produce available for sale) Where: 39675 W. 183rd St., Edgerton, KS Phone: 913.893.9626 Web: http://GieringersOrchard.com Nearby: Lanesfield School Historic Site Tip: This family-friendly farm allows picnics.

Happy Valley Farm Fruit: Blueberries Where: 29080 W. 95th, De Soto, KS Phone: 913.706.0370 Tip: Picking is by appointment only at this patch.

Schweizer Orchards Fruit: Apples, peaches, blueberries, blackberries (other fresh produce available for sale) Where: S. Hwy. 169 & FF, St. Joseph, MO Phone: 816.232.3999 Web: www.SchweizerOrchards.com Nearby: Patee House Museum Tip: Make it a day trip and search “St. Joseph” on www.KCParent.com for tips.

Wagon Wheel Orchard Fruit: Apples, cherries, peaches, plums, pears Where: 15380 Edgerton Rd., Gardner, KS Phone: 913.893.6050 Web: www.WagonWheelOrchard.com Nearby: Lanesfield School Historic Site Tip: Make an appointment to pick at this orchard.

Weston Red Barn Farm Fruit: Blackberries, apples Where: 16300 Wilkerson Rd., Weston, MO Phone: 816.386.5437 Web: www.WestonRedBarnFarm.com Nearby: Weston State Park Tip: Search “Weston” on www.KCParent.com for day trip tips.

Wohletz Farm Fresh Fruit: Strawberries Where: 1831 N. 1100 Rd., Lawrence, KS Phone: 785.331.3468 Web: www.WohletzFarmFresh.com Nearby: KU Natural History Museum Tip: Search “Lawrence” on www.KCParent.com for day trip tips.

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Lakeside Nature Center

animal appreciation One of my favorite quotes about caring for our natural world comes from African environmentalist Baba Dioum: “In the end, we will conserve only what we love, we will only love what we understand, and we will understand what we are taught.” In our area, we are fortunate to have many places where we can learn about our native wildlife and appreciate the natural world around us.

My absolute favorite place is Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs, MO. It remains one of the best places to learn about and watch wildlife. Trails are free and open to the public from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during daylight savings time and close at 6:00 p.m. after daylight savings. The nature center offers many free programs and is open Tuesday through Friday, 7:00-6:00, and Saturday, 8:00-5:00. My favorite features are the 3,000-gallon aquarium with native fish and turtles and the large bird feeder area, which is almost always active.

Visit mdc.mo.gov/regions/kansas-city for more information on trails and programming.

Another favorite is Lakeside Nature Center in Swope Park, Kansas City, MO. This area has trails and a fantastic nature center with many live animal displays. They are one of the only wildlife rehab facilities in Kansas City. As a result, they have a large collection of raptors, along with their other educational animals. Programs are offered for free or a small fee. Every month they offer a “Hike with a Naturalist” program where visitors hike the trails of Swope Park. The trails are open during daylight hours, and the nature center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00-4:00, and Sunday, 10:00-3:00. Nature center admission is free.

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Explore www.lakesidenaturecenter.org for information on programs and rehabilitation.

Ernie Miller Nature Center in Johnson County, KS, is a lovely escape to nature. They feature historic and nature education programs, which are usually available for a small fee. The nature center has a bird feeding station, displays and live animals. Trails are open dawn to dusk, and the nature center is open Monday to Saturday, 9:00-5:00, and Sunday, 1:00-5:00 from March 1 to Oct. 31. The rest of the year it is open Monday to Saturday, 9:00-4:30, and Sunday, 12:30-4:30. Visit www.erniemiller.com for a listing of programs and events.

Prairie Park Nature Center in Lawrence, KS, is a gem of a nature center. While smaller than many others, it is home to a 7-acre virgin prairie containing 180 species of native plants, flowers and grasses. It also features a bird feeding area, variety of displays and a surprising number of live animals. They offer weekly free programs Saturday mornings at 10:00 and Sunday afternoons at 1:30. Other programs are available for a small fee. Find out more information on program dates and times at www.lawrenceks.org/lprd/ppnc.

These are only four of the amazing places to learn about and appreciate wildlife in our area. For even more ideas, visit kcpassport.com or pick up a “Kansas City’s Passport to Adventure” booklet at any of the many participating educational interpretive sites.

Heather Shields is a Kansas City native and a high school science teacher.

Legend: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Shwn Msn - Shawnee Mission Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 65 Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours & directions for each facility.

Animal Attractions American Royal Museum

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

Burroughs Audubon Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary

7300 SW West Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.795.8177 Free D4 www.Burroughs.org A library and bird watching center com-

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

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

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

Green Dirt Farm

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

MAY 2 Sept. 7

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 FEATURED LISTING Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary and Educational Center See ad on pg. 30.

 FEATURED LISTING Kansas City Zoo See ad on pg. 68.

6800 Zoo Dr., KC, MO 816.595.1234 $ 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. Visit the zoo website for great events all fall and winter long. 

Native Hoofed Animal Enclosure

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

Screamin’ Oaks Farm

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

 FEATURED LISTING Sea Life Kansas City See ad on pg. 43.

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.

Powell Gardens

NATURE NATURE CONNECTS CONNECTS SCULPTURES

BUILT WITH

Discover.

Learn. Play.

LEGO BRICKS ®

816.697.2600 www.powellgardens.org

It’s in our nature!

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

TM

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plete with guides to identify local birds, binoculars and great viewing areas.

NATURE

N AT U R E

 FEATURED LISTING Kauffman Memorial Gardens See ad on pg. 29.

4800 Rockhill Rd., KC, MO 816.932.1200 Free C3 www.PowellGardens.org The Kauffman Memorial Garden is a tranquil garden. It showcases five designs beginning with a beautiful entrance alley of Peking Tree Lilacs shading billowing blue Endless Summer Hydrangeas and other seasonal flowers. 

Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden

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

Linda Hall Library Urban Arboretum

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

Overland Park Arboretum 8909 W. 179th St., OP, KS 913.685.3604 Free - $ B5 www.OPKansas.org Savor beautiful gardens, including a Monet garden and a children’s garden.

 FEATURED LISTING Powell Gardens See ad on pg. 29.

1609 NW US Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO 816.697.2600 $ D5 www.PowellGardens.org Within the gardens, explore the Heartland Harvest Garden, the nation’s largest “edible” landscape, the Island Garden which displays more than 200 varieties of water plants and the Rock & Waterfall Garden. From May 2-Sept. 7 visit the Nature Connects LEGO® sculptures. 

Nature Centers Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center

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

Burr Oak Woods Nature Center

Cave Spring Historic Site & Nature Center

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See reptile displays, rock and fossil exhibits and a natural resource library.

Ernie Miller Nature Center

Lakeside Nature Center

F. L. Schlagle Library

Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary

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.

George Owens Nature Park

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

John Barkley Visitor Center

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

8701 E. Gregory Blvd., KC, MO 816.547.9679 Free

www.CaveSpring.org Visit the nature center and hiking trails.

C4

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

Kemper Outdoor Education Center

8201 Jasper Bell, Blue Springs, MO 816.229.8980 Free D4 www.JacksonGov.org

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.

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

Parkville Nature Sanctuary

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

Prairie Oak Nature Center

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

Prairie Park Nature Center

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

beaches & boating in Kansas City Longview Lake

Swim Beaches at the Lakes: For land-locked Midwesterners craving a little sand between their toes, no ocean views can be found nearby.

But the area does feature several sandy swim beaches for affordable family fun in the sun! Tip: Visit beach websites for hours and admission rates.

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

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

Great Fishing Spots in Missouri and Kansas: Kill Creek Park (Olathe, KS) Shawnee Mission Park (Lenexa, KS) Antioch Park (Olathe, KS) Heritage Park (Olathe, KS) Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead (Overland Park, KS)

Englewood Lake (Kansas City North, MO) Lake of the Woods in Swope Park (Kansas City, MO)

Blue Springs Lake (Blue Springs, MO) Lake Jacomo (Blue Springs, MO) Longview Lake (Kansas City, MO)

Tip: Read “Fishing in KC” on www.KCParent.com for great advice when fishing with kids.

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A Kansas City

choose-your-own-adventure

City Market

By Kristina Light

K

ansas City, Kansas City, here I come. The center of the United States boasts the convergence of the melting pot that America is and truly offers something for everyone: world-class museums, hip historic districts, delicious dining and Midwestern charm. Kansas City, there truly is no place like home, and home is where the heart of our adventure begins….

Begin Your Adventure Here How comfortable are you when it comes to heights?

Enjoy scenery from the altitude of: A) Grass: Pack a picnic and sprawl out on the lawn of the NelsonAtkins Museum of Art, the largest and most prestigious art gallery west of the Mississippi.

With gigantic shuttlecocks as the centerpiece of Sculpture Park, The Nelson-Atkins the lawn is a beautiful Museum of Art and magnificent place to snap photos, play Frisbee, picnic and, of course, meander inside to enjoy a marvelous art collection at the museum where admission is always free!

B) Top of Building: Looking for a rooftop view that isn’t quite frightening if heights make you jittery and vertigo is not your

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friend? The Central Library of the Kansas City Public Library (14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO), housed in the former First National Bank of Kansas City, is one of the city’s most beautiful “best-kept secrets.” The library is an architectural masterpiece with reading rooms, research areas, a cafe and a rooftop view of the city skyline, complete with a giant life-size chess set! The best section of the library for families is the Children’s Department. Enter through the pages of a book to a place where kids will discover a wonderful reading area organized by ages and interests and offering many hands-on activities, as well.

C) Treetops: Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Kansas City Zoo’s African exhibit, ranked as the top African zoo exhibit in the nation.

The African Sky Safari gives visitors a bird’s eye view of majestic animals as they roam wide open plains. Ride above the treetops and take in giraffes, zebras, antelope, cheetahs, rhinos, birds and more.

Kansas City Zoo

Which piques your curiosity most?

Learn more about: A) Stingrays: Your family can be transported into an amazing underwater world with up-close views of more than 5,000 sea creatures at Sea Life Kansas City

Sea Life Kansas City

(2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO, 816.471.4386, www.SeaLifeUS.com).

heat! They know spicy, and you can depend on their menu’s heat rating to lead you in the right direction if jalapeños are what you crave.

Come nose-to-nose with sharks in the walk-through underwater tunnel, experience the touch pool where you can hold a crab or touch a starfish, participate in educational demonstrations, watch animal feedings and explore this state-of-the-art home for many of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.

C) Ice Cream: The chic shop with a sleek, modern atmosphere and robin’s egg blue walls beckons customers to sample exotic and unheard-of-before ice cream flavors.

Glace Artisan Ice Cream (www.glaceicecream.com), where the greatest challenge is narrowing down your choice, uses only pure, fresh foods and natural ingredients to create their delicious flavors—no artificial flavorings.

Locally owned and operated, this ice cream shop frequently invents new flavors and shares their creation journey on the Glace Facebook page to tempt fans with new, tantalizing ice creams. And with Christopher Elbow chocolates as signature ingredients for many of the flavors, you simply can’t go wrong! Visit one of two locations: 4960 Main St., Kansas City, MO, and 4535 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS.

B) Money: The Money Museum (1 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.881.2683) is the best place to get a firsthand lesson on the nation’s financial system, and tours are free. Learn how the Federal Reserve Bank works and its role in the U.S. economy through interactive exhibits that explore banking and basic economics. Take a peek into one of the nation’s largest cash vaults, create your own monetary artwork and view coins from each U.S. presidential administration.

The museum offers one of the best free souvenirs in town: a bag of shredded cash for each guest!

C) Butterflies: Powell Gardens’ annual Festival of Butterflies (www.powellgardens.org/butterfly), July 31-Aug. 2 and Aug. 7-9, transforms the 2,500-square-foot conservatory into a temporary butterfly house, filled to the brim with gorgeous blooms and hundreds of tropical butterflies. We make it an annual tradition to attend the festival, where we enjoy a native butterfly breezeway, Monarch Watch, the Idalia Society, kids crafts, a costume parade, a butterfly catch-and-release area and much more.

Which dish makes your mouth water?

Dig into a feast of: A) Barbecue: Mouthwatering, juicy barbecue is the name of the game at Fiorella’s Jack Stack (www.jackstackbbq.com), a Kansas City original and consistent Zagat award winner.

Boasting four local restaurants, the eatery is bound to have a location convenient to you. Kansas City barbeque The fare includes tangy sauce generously slathered over tender ribs, burnt ends and sliced meat. The exceptional side dishes challenge a diner to choose: baked beans, coleslaw, creamed corn or, my personal favorite, the onion rings!

B) Mexican Food: As one of Southwest Boulevard’s most notable Mexican restaurants for more than 30 years, Manny’s (www.mannyskc.com) has rightfully developed a loyal fan following with their generous portions and tasty burritos, tacos, enchiladas and homemade authentic Mexican tamales. What makes Manny’s stand out? The

Which item is most likely to make you want to stroll and shop?

Check out: A) Art: First Fridays in the Crossroads (www.kccrossroads.org) is a Kansas City tradition and a perfect event for the art enthusiast and the curious alike. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues located in the Crossroads Art District showcase art from 7:00 to 9:00 on the first Friday evening of each month. Boasting restaurants, galleries and live music, the district is one of the best places to enjoy Kansas City’s art scene.

First Fridays

B) Antiques: Shopping the West Bottoms (www.westbottoms.com) is the perfect excursion to get creative juices flowing and exercise your decorating instincts. With antique shops, boutiques and retailers selling repurposed and refinished furniture and home décor, model trains and clothing, the shopping district has rightfully earned its place on the map for locals looking for that one-of-a-kind finishing touch for the perfect room, outfit or collection.

C) Food: Located in America’s breadbasket, Kansas City boasts more than 30 farmers markets, ranging from the best-known City Market (www.thecitymarket.org) with 100+ vendors to smaller local markets with focused audiences like Brookside’s Organic Market (www.brooksidefarmersmarket.com). Whether you are a locavore, vegetarian, vegan or omnivore, you’ll find friendly vendors, knowledgeable farmers, live entertainment and summer’s bounty at local markets. Read our guide to Kansas City’s Farmers Markets on www.KCParent.com.

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LO CAL LEG ENDS

Kansas City and its surrounding towns have had many famous residents over the years, and several local attractions feature their stories. Here are just a few:

Photo by Lee Foster

Photo Courtesy of VisitKC.com

Alexander Majors

Amelia Earhart

Alexander Majors, along with William Russell and William Waddell, founded the Pony Express. They promised 10-day mail delivery between St. Joseph, MO, and Sacramento, CA, using a route more direct than competitors’ and mounted riders instead of traditional stagecoaches.

In business for only 18 months in 1860 and 1861, the Pony Express went bankrupt, largely due to the emergence of the railroad and telegraph.

Built in 1856 on a 300-acre farm, Majors’ antebellum house was by a dirt path that is now State Line Road.

The house survived the Civil War and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can tour the home, filled with period furnishings, and stroll through the gardens, blacksmith shop and barn. Special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Born in Atchison, KS, in 1897, Amelia Earhart took a plane ride in her early 20s that sparked her decision to learn to fly. She later became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean and the first person to fly solo over both the Atlantic and Pacific. She had several other notable flights and record-breaking feats in her career.

In 1937, Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, vanished while attempting to fly around the world. The mystery of their fate has sparked numerous theories and speculation.

Visitors can tour Earhart’s birthplace and childhood home, which has been returned to its turn-of-the-century condition and features an abundance of personal and family memorabilia. It is a National Historic Site.

The Alexander Majors House & Barn 8201 State Line Rd. Kansas City, MO 816.444.1858 34 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

The Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum 223 N. Terrace St. Atchison, KS 913.367.4217

bank and train robbers. The brothers led a notorious gang that was responsible for dozens of robberies and murders.

In Kearney, visitors can tour the restored childhood home of James, watch a short film, view a large collection of family artifacts and see James’ original gravesite.

The Jesse James Bank, located on the historic square in Liberty, MO, was the site of the nation’s first successful daylight peacetime bank robbery.

Photo Courtesy of VisitKC.com

Harry S. Truman The 33rd U.S. president was born in Lamar, MO, moved to Grandview and Independence as a child, lived in Kansas City as an adult, and moved back to Independence after his presidency.

Truman’s various jobs included timekeeper for a railroad construction contractor, bank clerk and a farmer before being elected as a Jackson County judge. In 1934, Truman was elected to the U.S. Senate, then went on to become vice-president and president.

After retiring to Independence, he took an active role in founding and running the Harry S. Truman Library. It features his preserved desk, hands-on displays and special exhibits and events throughout the year.

Also located in Independence is the Truman home, which features thousands of artifacts and a glimpse into the personal lives of the Trumans.

Jesse James Farm & Museum 21216 James Farm Rd. Kearney, MO 816.736.8500 The Jesse James Bank 103 N. Water Liberty, MO 816.736.8510 Jesse James Home Museum 1202 Penn St. St. Joseph, MO 816.232.8206

Harry S. Truman Library and Museum 500 W. US Hwy. 24 Independence, MO 816.268.8200 Truman Home 219 Delaware St. Independence, MO 816.254.9929

African American Legends The American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum share the same building in the 18th & Vine district.

The NLBM was founded in 1990 and is dedicated to preserving the history of African-American baseball from the mid-1800s to the 1960s, the period when players were segregated. The museum has hundreds of artifacts and photographs, film exhibits, statues and a museum store.

The AJM showcases the history of jazz music with interactive displays, short films, artifacts and exhibits.

Visitors can learn about jazz greats and a history of the famous 18th & Vine district, view album art and more.

Jesse James

American Jazz Museum/Negro Leagues Baseball Museum 1616 E. 18th St. Kansas City, MO 816.474.8463 (AJM) 816.221.1920 (NLBM)

Notorious outlaw Jesse James was born in 1847 in Kearney, MO. He and his brother Frank served in the Confederate Army before starting their criminal careers as

Tisha Foley and her family live in Belton, where local legend Carrie Nation is buried.

Photo Courtesy of VisitKC.com

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The Corner Cafe

Yummy Brunch? yes, please!

I don’t consider myself a foodie,

but that’s not to say I don’t love good food. And ever since I was young, Sunday brunch has been one of my favorite meals. My family always ate brunch together after church, and that tradition continues today. In fact, I’ve yet to find eggs Benedict as good as my Dad’s.

Since my favorite brunch spot in Kansas City closed a few years ago (Benton’s at the top of the Westin in Crown Center), it’s been my unofficial mission to find a new spot.

Below are some yummy eateries in KC to satisfy your brunch cravings.

Grand Street Café I hadn’t visited the Grand Street Café in years. Then a location opened near my home, and I visited several times for dinner. On a whim when my sister was in town, we tried the brunch. I am so glad we did! This is a strong front-runner for my new fave. You start with the appetizer buffet, which includes enough to be a meal in itself. I

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especially enjoyed the hummus, and the watermelon was extra tasty! As it was out of season, I was hesitant to try, but it was so good. My girls gave high marks to the shrimp, too. I don’t care for shrimp, so I’ll take their word for it.

Diners order an entrée off the menu. I have tried the eggs Benedict, chef’s omelet and the chilaquiles. Save room to head back up to the appetizer buffet for something sweet to round out the meal. In addition to all of this food, a plate of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls is delivered to your table. You won’t leave hungry! They have you covered in the drink department as well, with a bloody Mary bar and other tasty libations.

Plaza: 4740 Grand Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.561.8000 Lenexa: 8815 Renner Blvd., Lenexa, KS, 913.601.3500

The Corner Café This doesn’t fit the definition of a brunch restaurant as the breakfast is offered seven days a week, but it is just too good not to include! We visited the original location in Riverside and were warned that the wait on a Sunday

could be long. While the waiting area was packed, we were seated within 15 minutes. We tried corn beef hash, ham and eggs, French toast, biscuits and gravy and a cinnamon roll. While it was all good, the standouts for us were the perfectly-cooked-to-order eggs and scrumptious cinnamon roll. When I tell you it’s as big as your head, I am not stretching the truth! I was also pleasantly surprised at how fast we received our food, and with our check. The total for all of us was under $40, and let me tell you, we had a lot of food! Go hungry to the Corner Café and you will leave happy and full.

Riverside: 4541 NW Gateway Ave., Riverside, MO, 816.741.2570 Liberty: 8301 N. Flintlock Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.415.0050 Independence: 4215 S. Little Blue Pkwy., Independence, MO, 816.350.7000

Brewbakers Bar & Grill I know that brunch and buffet aren’t synonymous, but I do like brunch to come in buffet form. I enjoy having lots of choices and spreading out my enjoyment of the meal. That’s one of the things I love about Brewbakers.

Not only will you find a buffet of brunch items, carving station and the opportunity to build your own omelets, but they also offer a French toast bar where you can load up your bread with fruit, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, crushed candies and lots of other assorted goodies. Not only is the scope of the food vast, but the quality is very good. One other thing I really appreciated was the size of the booth. It was nice and roomy, and there was plenty of room for all of our plates, cups and other things. We weren’t cramped, and we were certainly stuffed when we left.

Lenexa: 9482 Renner Blvd., Lenexa, KS, 913.322.BREW

Grand Street Cafe

Not your typical breakfast/brunch restaurants with must-try items: Town Topic:

Know before going, this is definitely a “greasy spoon diner.” But, the Truck Stop is SO good! They take almost every breakfast item known to man, throw it all together and fry it up. The result is truly amazing.

Pacuigo: Can a drink be considered a breakfast item? When it is the gelatte from Pacuigo, I think yes.

If you fancy a latte, then run, don’t walk, to Pacuigo and order a gelatte, stat! It’s a traditional latte but flavored with gelato. So decadent and so yummy!

Wendy’s: I know what you are thinking. Wendy’s, really? If you haven’t had the oatmeal bar, then you must try it. It is the perfect mid-morning snack and it has oatmeal—so it’s healthy, right?

Eggtc:

The breakfast potatoes here are the best I’ve had. Just the right amount of crispy on the outside while not being overcooked. Plus, they make a mean pumpkin latte. I’ve been able to get it yearround, so when I’m craving one, this is my go-to stop.

Brewbaker’s Bar & Grill

Margaret Sarver enjoys brunch every Sunday with her family in Lenexa. If you think you’ve found the best eggs Benedict, drop her a line. She’d love to try it!

IHOP: I get it—by now I’ve totally lost my street cred.

But, full disclosure, I was the weekend hostess at the local IHOP in high school, so it holds a special place in my heart. The Harvest Grain and Nut pancakes are delish, and I love the way they sop up the syrup.

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Fort Osage National Historic Site

Not Too Far (30– 45 minutes): Sibley, MO: Lewis & Clark and the Mighty MO

family friendly day trips from Kansas City

More than 200 years ago, Lewis and Clark arrived in Sibley. It is there they met the Osage Tribe. Today you can travel 45 minutes from Kansas City and two centuries back in time with a visit to Sibley.

If you’re in the mood for an off-the-beaten path adventure, Kansas City is surrounded by small towns with rich histories just waiting to be explored.

Lunch Break: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the park, then make a stop at Sibley Orchards for a snack.

Tip: Search the name of the town on www.KCParent.com for more tips for each destination.

Best Place to Go with Kids: Fort Osage National Historic Site (www.fortosagenhs.com) is a living history museum and attraction.

In 1808, Fort Osage was built to protect the newly purchased Louisiana Territory and establish trade with the Osage. Today, visitors learn about the Native Americans who originally lived in the area and the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Lee’s Summit, MO: Celebrating 150 Years Founded in 1865, Lee’s Summit is celebrating its 150th Birthday this year. To celebrate, families will enjoy fun events all year (details at www.Truly150.com).

Best Place to Go with Kids: Spend a day exploring Historic Downtown Lee’s Summit with a visit to their history museum located in an old train caboose, and a day of shopping and exploring local boutiques and businesses. Head over to Paradise Park to burn off energy with miniature golf, go-karts, arcades, and more fun to explore.

Lunch Break: Downtown Lee’s Summit is home to many great locally owned restaurants and diners. Treat yourself to dessert at Poppy’s Ice Cream shop.

38 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Farther (45 –75 minutes) Lawrence, KS: An Eclectic Day Trip Lawrence (www.visitlawrence.com) is home to the University of Kansas and famous “Mass Street,” where shoppers love to browse for antiques, clothes, toys, candles, books and European groceries.

Best Place to Go with Kids: Visit the KU Natural History Museum, where one of the highlights is the mosasaur, the largest known lizard ever to have lived.

Lunch Break: Visit one of the many locally-owned restaurants on Massachusetts Street. You’ll find something for everyone. Be sure to save some room for homemade ice cream from Sylas and Maddy’s!

Downtown Lee’s Summit, MO

Topeka, KS: Lions, Tigers, Bears and Tornadoes in the Land of Oz The state capital of Kansas is home to several historic attractions and sites worth a visit. A tour of the capitol building or visit to Old Prairie Town is educational and interesting. There is a lot to see and do in Topeka, so check out www.visittopeka.com before your visit.

Best Place to Go with Kids: Gage Park is home to the Topeka Zoo and the Kansas Discovery Center, as well as a charming play area with a miniature train ride and carousel. The zoo is small enough to see all in a day, and you can feed giraffes, watch black bears and enjoy a great petting zoo. The Kansas Discovery Center is a wonderful interactive children’s museum with an incredible outdoor learning area, as well as indoor exhibits.

KU Natural History Museum

Lunch Break: Bobo’s Drive-In was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and it truly is a classic American diner. You’ll enjoy burgers, fries, shakes and old-fashioned atmosphere at this delicious local landmark.

Farthest (2-1/2 – 3 hours) Omaha, NE: Wild Animals and Family Fun Omaha is a great vacation destination for families, with one of the best zoos in the nation, an incredible water resort at CoCo Key and array of other fun attractions. Explore interactive exhibits at the Omaha Children”s Museum (www.OCM.org), visit the Durham Museum (www.DurhamMuseum.org), housed in Omaha’s restored Union Station, or take a trip to the Lauritzen Gardens (www.LaritzenGardens.org), a 100-acre botanical garden with an exquisite Victorian garden.

Topeka Zoo

Best Place to Go with Kids: Visitors love the Omaha Zoo (www.OmahaZoo.com), where you can ride the Skyfari for a view overlooking animals in world-class exhibits. Walk on the wild side in the Lied Jungle and marvel at the Scott Aquarium with a 70-footlong underwater walk-through tunnel wth sharks, stingrays and oceanic life.

Best Place to Stay: The most fun place to stay is CoCo Key (www.CocoKeyWaterResort.com), an indoor water resort with an Olympic-sized pool, beach entry pool, waterslides, Parrot’s Perch, a giant water playground, Dip In Kiddie Pool, a lazy river and more, all housed in a luxurious hotel.

Lunch Break: Old Spaghetti Works in the Old Market district is a fun family-friendly restaurant everyone enjoys.

Old Town Market, Omaha, NE

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Kansas City: A Bibliophile’s Paradise

M

y husband, Nick, and I are both huge bibliophiles. When Nick was growing up, his mom signed him up for almost every book club known to man, and he, in turn, developed a sizeable children’s book collection that we inherited when we got married (a gift that keeps on giving!).

Likewise, my fondest memories from childhood include long afternoons spent listening to my mother read the Little House on the Prairie and Chronicles of Narnia series aloud to my siblings and me, completely in character (a huge perk of having a thespian for a parent).

Books changed our childhoods for the better, and we continue to fall in love with them into adulthood. Now with three children, it’s only natural we desire to build a family culture that centers on books as well. Lucky for us, Kansas City is a fantastic place for book lovers to call home! From locally owned and operated bookstores to a fantastic series of library systems, Kansas City is home to both well-established places and exciting events that encourage its citizens to fall in love with reading themselves.

But don’t take my word for it. Check out these local gems for yourself!

40 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Rainy Day Books 2706 W. 53rd St. Fairway, KS 913.384.3126 Since it first opened its doors in 1975, Rainy Day Books has promoted a “Legacy of Literacy,” and it’s the oldest bookstore in the metropolitan area. Its emphasis on community outreach through author events has garnered national attention, making it one of the leading independent bookstores in the nation. It has been nominated for multiple awards, and its owner, Vivian Jennings, provides a regular voice on books and publishing for the Wall Street Journal, New York Times and USA Today. For 40 years, Rainy Day Books’ commitment has remained the same: to provide a gathering place for the Greater Kansas City community where its citizens can find great books, discuss big ideas and connect with favorite authors. Located in the heart of Fairway, Rainy Day Books is the quintessential shop around the corner, a cozy 450-square-foot oasis filled with a broad selection of books and a knowledgeable staff that facilitates the needs of several area book clubs with suggested reading materials and tools.

KD’s Books 241 SE Main St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.525.1366 When owner Cheryl Collier established KD’s Books in Lee’s Summit 24 years ago, it was exclusively a used bookstore. But over the course of time it has morphed into a kids’ store that specializes in children’s books—both new and used—and educational toys. Located directly across from the train tracks, the shop lets little engineers play with the train table inside while hearing locomotives rumble by outside!

The Learning Tree 4004 W. 83rd St. Prairie Village, KS 913.385.1234 With storefronts in both Prairie Village and Leawood, the Learning Tree provides Kansas City families access to quality books and educational toys. Owner Johnny Girson estimates that

roughly 20 percent of the store’s inventory comprises books, and their knowledgeable staff are seasoned toy and book experts, well-equipped to help you make a selection based on price and age range.

Reading Reptile 328 W. 63rd St. Kansas City, MO 816.753.0441 Popular children’s author and the 2009 National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Jon Scieszka hailed the Reading Reptile a national treasure — and with good reason! Owners Pete Cowdin and Deb Pettid have created a unique environment—part museum, part bookstore and fully fun—that sets the backdrop for creative programming, advocacy and partnerships. For more than 25 years, Reading Reptile has established itself as a local treasure with a reputation as one of the most revered children’s bookstores in America. Classic stories come to life as you walk through its doors. Paper-mâché characters greet guests while an inviting play area, complete with mechanical horse and a “secret” cabinet, usher children into making themselves at home. Reading Reptile hosts multiple events (including birthday parties) and holds writing contests and book fairs. And if that’s not enough, they even house Kansas City’s only fairy tale bakery, Le Petite Rouge! Be on the lookout for the Reading Reptile owners’ latest project, the Rabbit Hole, a first-of-itskind center where children will be able to walk through their favorite stories!

Central Branch Kansas City Public Library 14 W. 10th St. Kansas City, MO 816.701.3400 No matter from what area of the city you hail, it’s worth your while to check out KC’s largest library located downtown. From its book-covered facade to its giant rooftop chessboard, the Kansas City Public Library is like no other, making it a book lover’s paradise and a camera-worthy attraction all in one!

Lauren Greenlee reads—and freelance writes—from her Olathe home.

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MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial

k

“only in Kansas City” museums

ansas City-style barbecue isn’t the only thing that makes our city unique! KC also has many distinct museums and cultural centers that are found only here, at home, and are worth a visit.

The National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial (www.theworldwar.org) houses one of the largest collections of WWI artifacts in the world, including 75,000 objects and documents. A tour of this magnificent museum includes soldiers’ first-hand accounts of their experiences, recreated trenches, weaponry and a breath-taking glass bridge that extends over a poppy field. Also, lectures and battlefield tours are offered for those with museum membership. And despite the darkness of WWI, the museum is committed to providing engaging experiences for young people as well. Children can participate in scavenger hunts throughout the museum, as well as “HandsOn History” events, through which children can see and touch WWI artifacts.

In 1856, the Arabia Steamboat (www.1856.com), loaded with 200 tons of supplies to be delivered to newly settled frontier towns in the Midwest, hit a snag in the treacherous Missouri River and sank. Buried under a Kansas farm for 131 years, the Arabia was discovered in 1987 and transformed into a fascinating museum for Kansas City’s tourists to enjoy. It houses the largest collection of pre-Civil War artifacts in the world, including clothing, weaponry and personal effects of the 130 passengers. The museum offers adult tours, as well as tours designed specifically for children (one of which allows kids to clean artifacts!)

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Leila’s Hair Museum (www.leilashairmuseum.net) is the only hair museum in the world, featuring hundreds of wreaths and thousands of jewelry pieces made from human hair. You will find pieces containing hair from Queen Victoria, four presidents, the Virgin Mary (allegedly) and multiple celebrities ranging from Michael Jackson to Marilyn Monroe. The oldest brooch in the museum, with a piece of hair enclosed in a crystal case, was made in 1680.

A significant piece of Kansas City’s history is its heyday in the garment industry. After World War I and through the 1940s, more than 4,000 people were employed in Kansas City’s garment district. It’s said that during this time, one out of every seven women in the United States purchased a garment designed and made in Kansas City. Ann Brownfield, the author of We Were Hanging by a Thread, a history of KC’s garment industry, is the Garment District Museum (www.kcgarmentmuseum.org) curator and tour guide. The museum’s displays change with the season but consistently display historic garments and artifacts from the 1930s to 1940s. An interesting fact about the garment district that truly represents its value to KC’s history: Henry Perry, “the father of Kansas City-style barbecue,” got his start in 1908 selling food in an alleyway in this historic neighborhood.

Karen Johnson, mother of three children, blogs at Musings of a Non-Scrapbooking SAHM (www.the21stcenturysahm.com).

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

The Arts American Jazz Museum

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

Crossroads Art District

Various Galleries in Downtown KC, MO

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

Epsten Gallery

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

KC Strings

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

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

5842 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS 913.677.0400 Free B4 www.KCStrings.com Tour the stringed instrument shop and discover how master craftsmen make world-class instruments.

Stocksdale Art Gallery

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

UMKC Gallery of 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.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

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.

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.

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

Children’s Museums Children’s Peace Pavilion

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

Exchange City & EarthWorks

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

Environmental activities are also presented. Call to book tours.

Kaleidoscope

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

 FEATURED LISTING LEGOLAND® Discovery Center See ad on pg. 43.

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. 

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MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

MUSEUMS

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. 47.

1859 Marshal’s Home and Jail Museum

217 N. Main St., Indep, MO 816.252.1892 $ D3 www.JCHS.org One-room schoolhouse, marshal’s home, 1859 jail and museum.

1950s All-Electric House

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

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

Historic Sites, Museums and Tours

6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.715.2550 $ A4 www.JoCoMuseum.org The 1950s All-Electric House offers an eye-opening look at the technology of the times.

Airline History Museum

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

Alexander Majors Home

1827 Log Courthouse

107 W. Kansas Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7111 Free www.VisitIndependence.com

Tour the 1827 log courthouse and learn about the controversial slaveland dispute and westward expansion issues that were resolved there.

D3

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

Battle of Westport Museum

Arabia Steamboat Museum

Belton Historical Society & Museum

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.

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

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.

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

Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum

Ben Ferrel Platte County Museum

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

Battle of Westport Memorials

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

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.

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Tickets at UnionStation.org 44 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

MUSEUMS Wonderscope Children’s Museum 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 816.221.1600 Free C3 www.BlackArchives.org Call to schedule a tour of the collections featuring the works of black artists, writers, musicians and leaders in Kansas City.

Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center

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

Burnt District Museum

400 E. Mechanic, Suite 203, Harrisonville, MO 816.380.4396 $ C5 www.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 D1 www.ClayCountyMuseum.org Step into the past in a museum on the historic Liberty Square where the James Gang carried out the first daylight bank robbery in American history, and Civil War soldiers once marched.

C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

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

Dillingham-Lewis Home

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

Ensor Farmsite and Museum

Fort Osage

Excelsior Springs Historical Museum

Frontier Army Museum

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

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.

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

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

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

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

Grandview Historical Depot Museum

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

Grinter Place State Historic Site

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

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MUSEUMS

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 http://kansascitymuseum.org/ 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.

Science City Harris-Kearney House

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

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library

500 US Hwy. 24, Indep, MO 816.268.8200 $ D3 www.TrumanLibrary.org The exhibits in the library’s museum emphasize the life and times of Harry S. Truman and the Truman presidency.

Herbert Bonnell Museum

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

Historic Liberty Jail

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

Historic Pharis Farm

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

Irish Museum & Cultural Center

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 816.461.1897 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 $ D2 www.ClayCountyMo.gov Visit the site of the first U.S. daylight peacetime bank robbery.

Jesse James Farm & Museum

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

John Wornall House Museum

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

46 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Johnson County Kansas Archives

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

Johnson County Museum

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

KC Fun Trolley Tours

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

Kansas City Gangster Tour

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

Kansas City Historic Garment District Museum

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

 FEATURED LISTING KC Rail Experience See ad on pg. 44.

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. 

Korean War Veterans Memorial Kansas City

Washington Square Park: Pershing & Main, 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

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.

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.

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. 

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

Leila’s Hair Museum

Missouri Town 1855

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.

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.

Leavenworth Trolley Tour

Lone Jack Battlefield Museum

Mount Gilead Church & School

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

Leavenworth National Cemetery

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

Lee’s Summit Railroad Museum

220 SE Main St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.287.4477 Free D4 www.LeesSummitHistory.net A collection of local artifacts dating back to the 1890s is housed in an old depot.

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. 47.

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

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

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

National Agricultural Hall of Fame

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

National Frontier Trails Museum

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

 FEATURED LISTING The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures See ad on pg. 67.

5235 Oak St., KC, MO 816.235.8000 $ C3 www.ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures educates, inspires, and delights adults and children through the museum’s collection and preservation of toys and miniatures. The museum is currently under renovation and plans to reopen to the public on August 1, 2015. 

Commemorate3Olathe 1865 | May 2 Day Out with Frank and Ella | Wednesdays & Thursdays June & July Family Fun Nights | Thursdays June & July 19th Century Fireworks/Olathe Civic Band Night | July 2 Summer Living History | Memorial Day through Labor Day Wild West Days | September 26 & 27

Legler Barn Museum

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Lanesfield School Historic Site

MUSEUMS

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

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

Oxford Schoolhouse

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

Pioneer Trails Adventures

217 N. Main, Indep, MO 816.254.2466 $ D3 www.PioneerTrailsAdventures.com Enjoy a mule-drawn covered wagon ride as you learn about the city’s history and famous citizens, including Wild Bill Hickok, General Sterling Price and Harry Truman.

Raytown Historical Society and Museum

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

Rice-Tremonti Home

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

Rosedale Memorial Arch

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

Shawnee Indian Mission

Truman Home

Watkins Woolen Mill

Shawnee Town 1929

UFDC Doll Museum

Weston Historical Museum

3403 W. 53rd St., Fairway, KS 913.262.0867 $ B3 www.KSHS.org Johnson County is named for Thomas Johnson, the founder of the Shawnee Indian Mission. Learn the history of the Shawnee and early Johnson County, KS. 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 19th-century buildings. Hands-on history is taught through programs and events.

Strawberry Hill Museum

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

Thomas Hart Benton Home

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

Truman Courtroom and Office

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

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

Truman Farm Home

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

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.

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.

Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Federal Courthouse

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

U.S. National Archives

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

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

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

Veterans Park

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

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

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

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

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

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

Wyandotte County Historical Society and Museum

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

Science Museums and Sites  FEATURED LISTING Gottlieb Planetarium See ad on pg. 44.

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

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

Visit the calendar on www.KCParent.com to discover exhibits and events at local museums.

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30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.ScienceCity.com Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to outer space, music to optical illusions, medicine and weather. Housed in Union Station, a popular destination drawing tourists who marvel at the Grand Hall’s 95-foot ceiling, three 3,500-pound chandeliers and the 6-foot-wide clock hanging in the station’s central arch. See the all new Spark Lab for tons of fun! 

Special Interest Museums & Tours 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

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

Hallmark Visitors Center

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

Harley Davidson Assembly Plant

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

Kansas City Auto Museum

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

Louisburg Cider Mill

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

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.

 FEATURED LISTING Negro Leagues Baseball Museum See ad on pg. 5.

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

The Roasterie Inc.

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

Royals Hall of Fame

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

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 FEATURED LISTING Science City at Union Station See ad on pg. 44.

hidden gems

of Kansas City Kansas City is home to many icons: the National World War I Museum, Union Station, Hallmark, barbecue and, of course, the Royals. But it’s also a terrific place to make off-the-beatenpath discoveries. “Kansas City has a wide array of activities for families and visitors,” says Derek Klaus, senior communications manager for Visit KC. “It’s got a lot of well-known attractions, but it’s also home to some really cool, quaint attractions.”

From money to marble and miniature toys to top-rated eats, it’s hard to imagine planning a vacation to this city that isn’t worthwhile. Read on for some of Kansas City’s best hidden gems, those unique places that you won’t find on your first Google search of the area.

C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

Museums & Historical Sites C.W. Parker Carousel Museum 320 S. Esplanade Leavenworth, KS www.firstcitymuseums.org/carousel_main.html Minutes from downtown: 40 The Carousel Museum is one of several First City destinations in Leavenworth, the first city established in Kansas. On display are four carousels, circa 1850 to 1950, as well as memorabilia, individual horses and exhibits. The museum also serves as the departure point for Leavenworth’s First City Trolley Tour, a one-hour guided historical tour of the city, which takes place Saturdays at 11:00, beginning in April.

Federal Reserve Bank & Money Museum 1 Memorial Dr. Kansas City, MO 816.881.2683 www.kansascityfed.org/moneymuseum/includes/index.cfm 50 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Marketed as “a billion dollar experience,” KC’s Federal Reserve Bank & Money Museum offers educational opportunities for people of all ages. Tour a cash vault, complete the “Quest for the Lost Vault” scavenger hunt and even design your own money. Guided tours and special workshops and presentations are available.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm 1200 Kansas City Rd. Olathe, KS 913.971.5111 www.mahaffie.org Minutes from downtown: 28 The Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm is one of the few stagecoach stops that remains on the Santa Fe Trail, a 19th-century transportation route that connected the Midwest and Santa Fe. The original stone farmhouse, built in 1865, along with the original stone ice house and barn, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures 5235 Oak St. Kansas City, MO 816.235.8000 http://toyandminiaturemuseum.org/ A niche museum that opened in 1982, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures boasts the nation’s largest antique toy collections on public display. The museum is undergoing an $8 million renovation and will reopen to the public on Aug. 1. With the renovation comes new galleries, including one that explores the business of toys and another called “Toys from the Attic,” according to Tony Julo, the museum’s administrative and marketing assistant.

Restaurants Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant www.fritzskc.com With three locations across the KC metro area, Fritz’s is the destination for hungry kids and families. Customers order by phone from their own booths, and train cars chug right to the tables to deliver your meal. (Don’t worry. Waiters still bring your drinks and serve you.)

Filling Station Bar-B-Q http://fillingstationbbq.com Located in the Downtown Lee’s Summit shopping district and housed in an old Texaco station, the Filling Station is a locally owned barbecue restaurant where you may dine inside or outside at picnic tables. The nostalgic décor and Kansas City style barbecue draws a loyal following at this unique restaurant.

J.J.’s

a snack shack and a pro shop with equipment both for sale and rental. Cable is open seven days a week from May to September, and weekends in April and October.

The pro shop is open year-round.

Parkville Main Street Parkville, MO Minutes from downtown: 19 www.parkvillemo.org Just 10 miles northwest of Kansas City, this quaint town on the Missouri River supports an impressive array of shops, boutiques and restaurants. From art galleries to creative clothing retailers and accessory stores, Parkville is home to the quirky and the original—finds and eats you won’t stumble upon anywhere else.

Weston, MO 816.640.2909 (Chamber) http://westonmo.com Minutes from downtown: 39 Voted best day trip, best overnight destination and best small town in Missouri by a slew of magazines, this entire community has to make our list of Hidden Gems. Weston is known for its award-winning winery, shopping, food, historical flair and small-town atmosphere. Groove to live blues, country and Irish music or order a beer in the underground vault of an 1840s brewery.

Shopping. Eating. Playing. Reading. When you’re looking for fun in the heart of the country, it’s hard to go wrong.

Kate Meadows lives in Louisburg with her family. She writes at KateMeadows.com

900 W. 48th Pl. Kansas City, MO 816.561.7136 www.jjsrestaurantkc.com Two years after a devastating fire ravaged their historic brick building downtown, Kansas City’s beloved steakhouse reopened in a new building across the street from its original location. The restaurant is hailed as one of KC’s top restaurants by the Zagat Survey. Try the Paco shrimp appetizer or JJ’s Pride, Kansas City’s prized steak.

Fresh seafood is flown in daily.

Niche & Specialty KC Watersports 25825 Edgemore Rd. Paola, KS 913.783.4300 www.kcwatersports.com Minutes from downtown: 50 A top destination for wakeboarders, KC Watersports hosts day camps, lessons for all skill levels and a challenging array of obstacles for experts. The site also boasts a beach,

KC Watersports

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SHOWTIME

Coterie Theatre

S

Kansas City’s theater season

ummer is the season for musicals in Kansas City as outdoor theaters bring old standards and new favorites to stage. Starlight, Kansas City’s premier outdoor theater, has been entertaining audiences with Broadway shows every summer since 1950. This summer, enjoy professional productions of Camelot (June 9-14), Pippin (June 30July 5), Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella (July 7-12), Mary Poppins (July 24-Aug. 1) and Cirque Eloize iD (Sept. 8-13).

Another summer favorite is Shakespeare in the Park.

This free outdoor theater and Shakespeare festival is celebrating its 23rd season with a production of King Lear starring John Resenhouse (June 16-July 6). The pre-show festival includes Shakespearean actors, musicians, magicians and festival food for sale.

Fortunate for families, Kansas City has plenty of live theater with children in mind. Coterie Theatre, a professional children’s theater located in Crown Center, captures the imagination with fantastic productions for the family. This season, children will enjoy the classics Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat (March 31-May 17) and A Year with Frog & Toad

52 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

(June 6-Aug. 2). Since 1977, Theatre for Young America has been entertaining Kansas City’s youngest audiences.

This season, they present If You Give a Cat a Cupcake (April 21-May 16) and The Princess & the Pea (June 9-27).

The Culture House, a local performing arts group, is performing Seven Brides for Seven Brothers at Indian Creek Community Church (April 16-18), Charlotte’s Web at TCH Red Studio (April 24-26), Harvey at TCH Red Studio (May 8-10) and Into the Woods at Yardley Hall (Aug. 6-9).

Other favorites for children include The Theatre in the Park as well as puppet shows by Paul Mesner Puppets, the Puppetry Arts Institute and StoneLion Puppets.

The Kansas City Ballet, the region’s professional ballet company, brings Dances Daring (Then and Now) May 8-17, as well as many exciting shows in the fall and winter, including The Three Musketeers and The Nutcracker.

In addition to live theater, there are wonderful concert venues, ballet, opera and other performances to enjoy all across Kansas City all year long. Learn more about these terrific venues in our Showtime section.

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

Dance, Music & Theater Avila College Goppert Theatre

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

Barn Players Community Theatre

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

Bell Road Barn Players

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

Christian Youth Theater

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

City Theatre of Independence

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

Comedy City

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

Coterie Theatre

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.

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.

Gem Theater

The Culture House

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

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.

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

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.

Kansas City Ballet

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.

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.

Carlsen Center at JCCC

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

Folly Theater

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SHOWTIME

SHOWTIME

Martin City Melodrama

New Theatre Restaurant

Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre

Northland Symphony Orchestra

3808 E. 98th Ter., KC, MO 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.

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

Midland Theatre

Olathe Civic Band

Miller-Marley School of Dance

Olathe Community Theatre

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

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

B3 dance

The Murder Mystery Co.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts KC Repertory Theatre

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

KC Starlight Theatre

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

KC Symphony

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

KC Young Audiences

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

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

Liberty Performing Arts Theatre

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

Lied Center of Kansas

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

Lyric Opera

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

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

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

Music Hall

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

Musical Theater Heritage

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

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 $ C3 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.

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

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

Puppetry Arts Institute

Mystery Comedy Dinner Playhouse

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

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.

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

Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park

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

Trilogy Cultural Arts Centre

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

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

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

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

Theatre for Young America 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

Sprint Center

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

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

Carlsen Center

Kids Camps in KC

Check this out!

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

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

kcgoingplaces.com 55

r e m m su

50 sensational ways to savor

in Kansas City

Make the most of your summer in Kansas City with these favorite local experiences.

By Kristina Light

1. Get an amazing view of the city from the River Observation Tower (www.kcrivermarket.com) as you gaze out over the vast Missouri River.

2. Savor McGonigle’s (www.mcgonigles.com) ribs. Since 1951 the market has been selling some of the tastiest meats in the city. The smoker entices customers in the summer with the promise of juicy ribs and barbecue.

12. Spend the night at the Kansas City Zoo, where they offer overnights in the penguin and polar bear exhibits and campouts in Africa.

13. Root for the Kansas City Royals and enjoy Friday night fireworks.

14. Indulge in a hand-crafted soda or snow cone at Little Freshie (www.littlefreshie.com), where customers revel in flavors like blackberry lavender, strawberry rhubarb and more.

3. Treat your kids to a frozen treat at a Kona Ice

15. Watch a retro flick on the big screen at the

(www.kona-ice.com) truck parked at local festivals and attractions through the summer. Using the flavor wave, customers flavor their own slushes.

16. Sample foods from around the world at the Ethnic Enrichment Festival, Aug. 21-23 in Swope Park.

4. Feed the fish at Longview Lake, then enjoy a dip at

17. Explore Kansas City’s historic

the swim beach or rent a boat at the marina.

5. Attend Maker Faire (www.makerfairekc.com) June 27-28 at Union Station, a festival celebrating things people create themselves—from new technology and electronic gizmos to urban farming, “slow-made” foods and unique art projects.

6. Camp at Watkins Mill State Park and tour the antebellum woolen mill.

Alamo Drafthouse movie theater (www.drafthouse.com).

cemeteries and see where her most famous residents are laid to rest. The book Here Lies Kansas City

by Wilda Sandy offers a visual tour of these famous graves.

18. Tour the Green

Starlight Theatre.

Dirt Farm in Weston and learn why grassfed sheep make the tastiest cheese.

9. Visit Powell Gardens and enjoy Booms and Blooms,

19. Ride the Mamba at

7. Visit the big cats at Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary.

8. Watch a live Broadway show under the stars at a live symphony performance and fireworks over the 4th of July.

10. Hike Monkey Mountain and other local trails found in the book Hiking Kansas City by William B. Eddy and Richard O. Ballentine.

11. Window shop and take photos at the Country Club Plaza, then top off the day by sharing a skyscraper (GIANT ice cream soda) at Winstead’s.

56 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Worlds of Fun and enjoy water rides at Oceans of Fun.

Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary

20. Feed animals at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.

21. Spend a first Friday in the Crossroads admiring local art and feasting on food truck favorites.

22. Attend a free family fun night at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop (Thursdays in the summer), where history comes to life.

23. Learn the story of Negro Leagues Baseball, from the

38. Discover Kansas City’s rich history aboard the trolley

average players to the superstars at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in the 18th & Vine Jazz District.

(www.kcfuntours.com).

24. Learn the history of Independence, MO, as a jumping off point for the trails by jumping aboard a horse-drawn wagon ride with Pioneer Trails Adventures.

25. Get lost in the new glass labyrinth on the lawn of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

26. Ride the rails with the Belton, Grandview & KC Railroad, the Midland Railway or the KC Northern Railroad. All three offer great train rides on the weekends in the summer.

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

39. Ride the sky bike, a bicycle over a high wire, at Science City.

40. Visit the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial and grab a free Family Guide at the entrance with a scavenger hunt for the kids. End your trip with photos at the top of the tower.

41. Play disc golf at Swope Park.

42. Explore Downtown Kansas City and take photos with public art on display (www.downtownkc.org/art-in-the-loop/).

43. Learn the fine art of butchering at Local Pig (www.localpig.com), where they offer hands-on classes in everything meat.

44. Watch as homemade potato chips are sliced and fried in the machine at Price Chopper at 151st & Metcalf, then indulge in a bag of your favorite flavor.

45. Dine al fresco at one of the many restaurants offering patio seating at the Country Club Plaza, Brookside Shopping District, Briarcliff Village, Park Place or Prairie Fire.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

28. Delight in decadent artisan chocolate from Christopher Elbow.

29. Attend the Brookside Art Annual (www.brooksidekc.org/bba/art-annual) May 1-3, a local art festival.

30. Take a tour of the Kansas City, MO, City Hall and go to the roof for amazing views of downtown.

31. Play a round of miniature golf at Cool Crest.

32. Learn about the Santa Fe Trail at Cave Springs

46. Laugh at the live improv comedy at ComedyCity.

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

48. Rent a pedal boat at Shawnee Mission Lake.

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

50. Visit www.KCParent.com and search our calendar for more ideas all year long!

Nature Center.

33. Celebrate Children’s Day at Missouri Town 1855 on June 6 with old-fashioned tug-o-war and gunny sack races.

34. Ride Verrückt at Schlitterbahn water park.

35. Pick blueberries, strawberries and fresh fruit at Kansas City’s U-Pick Farms (see pg. 27).

36. Treat the kids to some of Shatto Dairy Farm’s signature ice cream and ice cream sammiches.

37. Visit the Lee’s Summit Historical Society Museum housed in an old train depot and enjoy a day of shopping and dining in Historic Lee’s Summit.

Watkins Mill State Park

kcgoingplaces.com 57

SPORTS

SPORTS

T-Bones Stadium

get in the game with some kc sports trivia!

• Who was the manager of the Royals when they won the World Series in 1985?

• How many times has the Sporting KC club won the MLS cup (including under their previous names)?

• Name the two Sporting Kansas City players who represented the United States in the 2014 World Cup.

• How long is the Kansas Speedway oval track?

• Who is the most recent inductee to the Royals Hall of Fame?

• How many fans can the Kansas Speedway hold?

• In what year did Arrowhead play host to the Kansas City Chiefs for the first time?

• What former Kansas City Royal is the only person to be selected for the All-Star game in two professional sports?

• What was the original name of the soccer team we now know as Sporting Kansas City?

• Name the two mascots for the Missouri Mavericks hockey team.

• In what year did the first American Royal Rodeo take place?

• During the years 1974-1976, Kansas City held the distinction of being one of only eight U.S. cities with four major professional sports teams. Name those four teams.

• Who holds the title of all-time passing leader for the Kansas City Chiefs?

• What is the name of Kansas City’s professional women’s soccer team?

• What Kansas City, KS, native won four Olympic medals in track?

• In the 1970s and early 1980s, Kansas City had an NBA team. What was the name of that team and where do they play now?

• What Kansas City great became the oldest person to make a plate appearance at a professional baseball game in 2006 when he walked twice in the Northern League All-Star Game at Community America Ballpark as a member of the Kansas City T-Bones?

• For what Kansas City team did baseball legend Jackie Robinson play?

• What Kansas City venue has hosted more NCAA Final Four Championships than any other in the country?

• In what year did the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl? Who was their opponent?

Compiled by Sara Keenan, a true-blue Kansas City Royals fan.

Answers: 1: Dick Howser | 2: Matt Besler and Graham Zusi | 3: Mike Sweeney | 4: More than 72,000 | 5: 1972 | 6: Bo Jackson | 7: The Wiz (This name was changed to the Kansas City Wizards in 1996 and to Sporting Kansas City in 2010.) | 8: Mac and Cheeze | 9: Kansas City Kings. They are now the Sacramento Kings. | 10: Kansas City Monarchs 11: 1970 (Super Bowl IV) vs. the Minnesota Vikings | 12: Twice. In 2000 and 2013 | 13: 1.5 miles long | 14: 1949 | 15: Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), Kansas City Royals (MLB), Kansas City Scouts (NHL) and Kansas City Kings (NBA) | 16: Len Dawson with 28,507 yards | 17: FC Kansas City | 18: Maurice Greene | 19: Buck O’Neil; he was 94 years old. He signed a one-day deal with the T-Bones before the game and was traded to the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks during the game, then back to the T-Bones for his second plate appearance.

20: Municipal Auditorium, where the event has been hosted nine times

58 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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

Batting Cages & Sports Complexes 68’s Inside Sports

11301 W. 88th St, OP, KS 913.888.9247 $ B4 www.68InsideSports.com Indoor batting cages offer fun and practice.

Blackbob Batting Cages

14570 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.254.7409 $ A5 http://blackbobpark.com/ Outdoor batting cages and outdoor miniature golf.

Blue Valley Rec Batting Cages

9701 W. 137th St., OP, KS 913.685.6030 $ B5 www.BlueValleyRec.org Hit at outdoor batting cages.

Mac-N-Seitz Baseball & Softball

13705 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.942.9992 $ C5 www.Mac-n-Seitz.com Enjoy two major league-size infields, two full-size bull pens, indoor batting cages, six 70-foot hitting tunnels and party room events.

Martin City Sports Complex

1 E. 135th St., KC, MO 816.941.9000 $ C5 www.MartinCitySports.com Batting cages, as well as driving range, miniature golf, volleyball, paintball and more.

Mid-America Sports Complex

20000 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.826.2900 $ A4 www.JCPRD.com Outdoor batting cages offer up fun and practice.

Shoal Creek Driving Range & Batting Cages

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

Sports City

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.

Tom Urquhart’s School of Baseball

Diamond Bowl

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

Triple Play Baseball Softball Academy

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

The Yard

4802 S. Noland Rd., KC, MO 816.525. 9273 $ D3 http://TheYardKC.com Indoor baseball and softball facility.

Bowling

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

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 $ A3 www.KCBowl.com

Aaron’s Family Fun Center

Lunar Bowl

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

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

AMF

Mission Bowl ‘N Olathe

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

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

1020 S. Weaver St., Olathe, KS 913.782.0279 $ A5 http://missionbowl.com/

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

Canyon Farms Golf Club

18145 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 913.529.2235 $ B4 www.canyonfarmsgolfclub.com Enjoy outdoor batting cages.

Drive5

12140 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.897.4667 $ B5 http://drive5sports.com/ State-of-the art basketball, volleyball, and gym facility.

KC Sports Lodge

19310 E. 50th Ter., Independence, MO 816.795.7171 $ D3 www.KCSportsLodge.com The 70,000-square-foot facility offers youth and adult indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball and flag football.

Gridiron Glory at Union Station kcgoingplaces.com 59

SPORTS

SPORTS

SPORTS

Bluejacket Pool Park Lanes Family Fun Center

Strikerz Entertainment Center

7701 Renner Rd., Shwn Msn, KS 913.248.1110 $ A4 www.ParkLanesKC.com

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

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

Summit Lanes

Premier Bowling & Recreation Center

Ward Parkway Lanes

11400 E. 350 Hwy., Raytown, MO 816.356.5955 $ C3 www.PremierBowl.com

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

Retro Bowl

803 SW Oldham Pkwy., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.3322 $ D4 www.SummitLanes.com 1523 W. 89th St., KC, MO 816.363.2700 $ C3 www.WardParkwayLanes.com

Indoor Pools Belton Parks Community Center

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

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

Blue Valley Rec Aquatic Center

Sterling Bowl

Centennial Pool Plex

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

6545 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.685.6000 $ B5 www.BlueValleyRec.org 2401 NW Ashton Dr., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0188 $ D4 www.funattheblue.com

60 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

CoCo Key Water Resort

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

Gladstone Community Center

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

Great Wolf Lodge

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

Harrisonville Recreation Center

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

Henley Aquatic Center

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

Jewish Community Center of Greater KC

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

KC MO Parks & Rec Community Centers with Indoor Pools

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

KC YMCA Locations with Indoor Pools

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

Legacy Park Community Center

901 NE Bluestem Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1550 $ D4 www.CityOfLS.net

Liberty MO Community Center 1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ D2 www.CI.Liberty.MO.us

Matt Ross Community Center

8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 $ B4 www.OPKansas.org

Olathe Community Center and Stagecoach Park

1205 E. Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS 913.971.8563 $-$$ A5 www.olatheks.org/parksrec/olathecommunitycenter

Park Hill Aquatic Center

8152 N. Congress Ave., KC, MO 816.359.4080 $ B1 www.Parkhill.K12.MO.us

Roeland Park Aquatic Center 4843 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park, KS 913.432.1377 $ B3 www.RoelandPark.net

Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center

6200 Martway St., Shwn Msn, KS 913.722.8200 $ B3 www.SylvesterPowell.com

The View

13500 Byars Rd., Grandview, MO 816.316.4888 $ C5 www.Grandview.org

JUST WHAT YOU WANT THE BEST WEEKEND PLANNER FOR FAMILY FUN IN KC! JOIN THE 23,000 PEOPLE WHO ALREADY ENJOY OUR WEEKLY E-NEWS.

Indoor Ice Skating Centerpoint Community Ice

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 816.442.6100 $ D3 www.IndependenceEventsCenter.com Enjoy year-round skating at the indoor ice rink.

KC Ice Center

19900 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Mission, KS 913.441.3033 $ B3 www.KCIceCenter.com An indoor ice skating rink.

Line Creek Community Center Ice Rink

5940 NW Waukomis Dr., KC, MO 816.513.0760 $ C2 www.KCMO.org Indoor ice skating rink offers family fun.

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 816.965.9218 $ C4 www.TheBayKC.com Brand new $7 million facility with a zero-entry pool, lap pool, lazy river and water slides.

Black Bob Bay

14570 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.971.5345 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org Features include raft water slides, a lazy river, shallow water play structures, a dive well, a 50-meter pool and a baby pool.

Bluejacket Pool

10101 Bond, OP, KS 913.327.5671 $-$$ 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.funattheblue.com The complex sports three pools: an indoor pool (year-round), an 8-lane 50-meter outdoor pool that features high-speed water slides, and an outdoor wading pool.

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

SUBSCRIBE TODAY AT KCPARENT.COM PLUS, JOIN OUR 17,700+ FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS!

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www.kcwatersports.com kcgoingplaces.com 61

SPORTS

Miami County Family YMCA: 300 11th St., Osawatomie, KS 913.755.3622 $ A5 Olathe Family YMCA: 21400 W. 153rd St., Olathe, KS 913.393.9622 $ A5 Paul Henson Family YMCA: 4200 W. 79th St., Prairie Village, KS 913.642.6800 $ B4 Platte County Comm Center North: 3101 Running Horse, Platte City, MO 816.858.0114 $ A1 Platte County Comm Center South: 8875 Clark Ave., Parkville, MO 816.505.2622 $ B2 Providence YMCA/Ball Family Center: 8601 Parallel Pkwy., KC, KS 913.378.9622 $ A2 Red Bridge Family YMCA: 11300 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.942.2020 $ C5

SPORTS

Bonner Springs Aquatic Park

FREE Spraygrounds

1200 S. 134th St., Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.7011 $ A3 www.BonnerSprings.org The aquatic park features a zero-depth entry pool, 2.5-meter lap pool, floatable pods, water playground, diving boards, water slides and basketball goal.

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.

Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd., KC, MO 816.513.0730 $ C3 Budd Park: Budd Park Esplanade & Denver Ave., KC, MO 816.784.2600 $ C3 Grove Park Pool: Truman Rd. & Benton Blvd., KC, MO 816.784.2500 $ C3 Swope Park Pool: 6700 Lewis Rd., KC, MO 816.513.8915 $ C3 www.KCMO.org Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at Kansas City’s Parks & Rec pools.

Frontier Pool

Leawood Aquatic Center

Gardner Aquatic Park

Lenexa Parks and Rec Outdoor Pools

Fairway Swimming Pool

Anderson Sprayground in Grandview Spraygrounds are water playgrounds where children can run and play through sprinklers and sprays on a safe surface. This is a fantastic, fun, FREE way to cool off on a hot Summer Day. Spraygrounds are open Memorial Day - Labor Day across the metro!

Kansas City Missouri: • Blue Valley Park: 23rd & Topping • Harmony Park: E. 10th St & Agnes Ave. • Jacob L. Loose Park: W. 52nd Terrace & Summit Ave. (Closed Wednesdays) • Sunnyside Park: W. 83rd St. & Summit Ave. • Longview Tract: 7107 Longview Rd. • Golden Oaks Park: N.E. 46th Street & N. Antioch Rd. • Garrison Square: E. 4th St. & Forest Ave. • Central Park: Linwood Blvd & Bales Ave. • Nelson C. Crews Park: E. 27th St & Michigan Ave. • Douglass Playground at Grace Williams Nicholl Park: 2632 Jarboe St. • Zona Rosa: I-29 and Barry Rd.

Independence Missouri: • McCoy Park: 24 Highway & N. Delaware • Rotary Park: 24th & Hardy

Grandview Missouri: • John Anderson Park: 4701 E. 135th Street

Liberty Missouri: • City Park: 970 S. Highway 291 • Ruth Moore Park: 401 N. Morse

Kansas City Kansas: • Eisenhower Park: 2901 N. 72nd St. • Heathwood Park: 10th & Parallel Pkwy

62 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

KCMO Parks & Rec Outdoor Pools

15909 W. 127th St., Olathe, KS 913.971.5349 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org/ParksRec Features include a water slide, zerodepth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.

Cornerstone Park, 215 N. Center, Gardner, KS 913.856.0962 $ B5 www.GardnerKansas.gov/pool Special amenities include zero-depth entry, an active in-water play area, lazy river, multiple water slides, floatable walk, climbing nets, spray grounds and a tot pool.

Gladstone Municipal Pool

Central Park: 7011 N. Holmes, Gladstone, MO 816.436.2299 $ C2 www.Gladstone.mo.us This pool features zero-depth entry, sprayground, dumping bucket, open flume slide and a drop slide.

Grain Valley Aquatic Center

713 Main St., Grain Valley, MO 816.847.6230 $ D3 www.CityofGrainValley.org Features include a zero-depth entry pool and water slides. Swim lessons are offered also.

 FEATURED LISTING KC Watersports See ad on pg. 61.

25825 Edgemore Rd., Paola, KS 913.783.4300 $ A3 www.kcwatersports.com 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 challenging set of rails, ramps and sliders anywhere in the United States. All skill levels are encouraged, so head out to KCW this summer and enjoy some fun in the sun! 

10601 Lee Blvd., Leawood, KS 913.327.3977 $-$$ B3 www.Leawood.org Olympic size 50-meter pool, with youth pool, fountains and slides.

Ad Astra Pool: 83rd & Maurer Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.492.7946 $ B3 Flat Rock Creek Pool: 103rd & Hauser, Lenexa, KS 913.888.3202 $ B3 Indian Trails Aquatic Center: 87th & Greenway Ln., Lenexa, KS 913.888.4659 $ B3 www.ci.Lenexa.ks.us Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at Lenexa’s pools.

Liberty Community Center Pools

1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4360 $ D1 www.ci.Liberty.mo.us This location boasts two outdoor pools, including a children’s fountain pool and two indoor pools.

Marty Pool

7405 Conser, OP, KS 913.327.5672 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features a youth pool, fountains, a tropical fish slide, sand area, a main pool with a zero-depth entry and water slide.

Merriam Aquatic Center

6040 Slater, Merriam, KS 913.322.5518 $$ B3 www.Merriam.org The center features zero-depth (beach entry) pool, a variety of slides for all ages, pulsating water jets, water riders, spray toys and a 50-meter pool.

Mill Creek Pool

320 E. Poplar, Olathe, KS 913.971.5337 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org

well, an inflatable slide, four 50-meter lap lanes and a children’s area.

Mission Family Aquatic Center

5930 W. 61st St., Mission, KS 913.722.4590 $-$$ B3 www.missionks.org This large outdoor pool also has an additional kiddie pool.

10400 Roe, Overland Park, KS 913.327.5673 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Roe has water depths ranging from 3 feet, 6 inches to 12 feet. It also has a small slide, water rock climbing wall, 1-meter diving board and youth pool.

 FEATURED LISTING Oceans of Fun See ad on pg. 3.

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

4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 www.WorldsOfFun.com Kansas City’s outdoor water park with twisting inner tube slides and Buccaneer Bay with kayaks and canoes.

Now, Worlds of Fun offers more value than ever by combining both Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun to a one ticket admission. Every guest will have access to 235 acres of rides, shows and attractions, complete with a massive water park. 

Oregon Trail Pool

1750 W. Dennis, Olathe, KS 913.971.5348 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org Features include a water slide, zerodepth entry, dive well, spray features and a lap pool.

Parkwood Swimming Pool

950 Quindaro Blvd., KC, KS 913.551.0402 $ B2 www.WYCoKCK.org With daily admission at $1/day, this is one of the most affordable pools in the metro.

Prairie Village Pool Complex

7711 Delmar, Prairie Village, KS 913.385.4650 $ B3 www.PVKansas.com The complex features two water slides and the plunge pool, zero-depth entrances to the leisure and wading pools, large pool deck area, tubing, lap pool and therapeutic whirlpool.

Riverside Community Center Pool

4498 NW High Dr., Riverside, MO 816.741.4172 $ B2 www.RiversideMO.com The 3,750-square-foot pool features a zero-depth entrance for the little ones, diving boards for the bigger kids and a splash & play area for everyone.

Roeland Park Aquatic Center

4843 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park, KS 913.432.1377 $ B3 www.RoelandPark.net Features include a 50-meter inverted “C”-shaped pool with a 25-yard by 25-meter competitive area, a dive

Roe Pool

9400 State Ave., KC, KS 913.312.3110 $$ A3 www.Schlitterbahn.com Schlitterbahn is Kansas City’s only river tubing adventure. With over a mile of interconnected river, it’s like going on a float trip inside the 40-acre waterpark featuring water slides, a lazy river, pools and tube chutes end-to-end. Enjoy the park’s many record-breaking rides and attractions, including the all new, tallest waterslide in the world, Verrückt. Visitors enjoy free parking, free tubes, free lifejackets, and picnics are welcome inside the park. 

Splash Cove

5800 King Ave, Shawnee, KS 913.631.7177 $-$$ B4 www.CityOfShawnee.org Splash Cove features a mini wave pool, 125-foot full body slide, interactive playground features, instructional pool, WiFi access and a party cabana.

Super Splash USA

5330 Raytown Rd., Raytown, MO 816.356.5300 $$ C3 www.SuperSplashUSA.com Whether you’re looking for thrills or just want to catch some rays, Super Splash has something for everyone.

Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center

13805 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 913.631.0054 $ A4 www.CityOfShawnee.org Features an 8-lane, 50-meter pool, diving boards, two body slides, a lazy river, vortex, interactive aquatic features, enclosed baby pool area with water playground.

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 Ave., KC, MO 816.880.0279 $ B2 http://thespringskc.com/ Two water slides, a lazy river with a vortex, two splash playgrounds, a zero-depth entry pool with play features and an Olympic size 50-meter competitive pool.

Stonegate Pool

9701 Antioch, OP, KS 913.327.5674 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features include a 22-foot-high spiral water slide, a 1-meter diving board, a youth pool with fountain features, a 25-meter lap lane and more than 25 feet of zero-depth area.

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.

Miniature Golf Aaron’s Family Fun Center

17070 Aaron’s Ln., Belton, MO 816.322.0488 $ C5 www.AaronsFamilyFunCenter.com Play outdoor miniature golf and enjoy indoor bowling, outdoor go-karts and volleyball.

Cool Crest

10735 E. US Hwy. 40, Indep, MO 816.358.0088 $ D3 www.CoolCrest.com Four full 18-hole miniature golf courses, a 7,000-square-foot video game arcade, a full pizzeria and restaurant, go-karts, batting cages and more!

Cosmic Mini Golf

Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20418 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.764.5565 $ A 5 www.GlowMiniGolf.com Indoor miniature golf features glowin-the-dark black light effects.

Family Golf Park

1501 NE 40 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.1550 $ D3 www.FamilyGolfPark.com Outdoor miniature golf, arcade, bumper boats and party facilities.

Howl-in-One Mini Golf Great Wolf Lodge: 10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 913.299.7001 $ A3 www.GreatWolfLodge.com Outdoor miniature golf 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 913.268.4386 $ B3 www.PowerPlayKC.com Cosmic bowling, arcade games, whirly ball and more.

Smiley’s Golf 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., OP, KS 913.851.1700 $ B5 www.IncredABowl.com Indoor mini golf has a tropical theme at the Incred-A-Bowl Family Fun Center.

Paintball 280 Paintball 11611 Hickman Mills Dr., KC, MO 816.309.5362 $ C5 www.280Paintball.com Try out the indoor paintball field.

Drop Zone Paintball 1224 N. 1st Rd., Overbrook, KS 785.841.1884 $ A3 www.DropZonePaintball.com Outdoor paintball fields offer excitement.

High Performance Paintball 1500 Sandy Links Ln., Harrisonville, MO 816.868.5675 $ C5 http://highperformancepaintball.net Outdoor paintball field with 10+ acres and three varying paintball fields and terrain.

Jaegers Paintball Park 9300 NE Underground Dr., KC, MO 816.452.6600 $ C2 www.Jaegers.com Underground paintball field and laser tag is set in one of KC’s oldest limestone mines.

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SPORTS

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

SPORTS

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.

Roller Skating Rinks B & D South Skate Center

13903 E. Noland Ct., Indep, MO 816.252.1084 $ D3 www.BandDSouth.com

Landmark Skate Center

701 SE Oldham Ct., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.2000 $ D4 www.Landmark2Skate.com

Northland Rolladium

Cool Crest Martin City Paintball

13501 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.885.2134 $ C5 www.martincitypaintball.com Six unique outdoor paintball fields.

Pro, Semi-Pro and College Sports KC Chiefs

Arrowhead Stadium: 1 Arrowhead Dr., KC, MO 816.920.9300 $$ C3 www.KCChiefs.com Cheer for KC’s professional football team.

Missouri Mavericks

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.

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 816.252.7825 $$ D3 www.MissouriMavericks.com KC’s minor league ice hockey team offers family excitement.

KU Athletics

1 Sporting Way, KC, KS 913.387.3400 $$ A3 www.SportingKC.com Cheer for KC’s outdoor soccer team.

Skate City Overland Park

UMKC Kangaroos

Skate City Legends

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.

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Indep, MO 855.452.4625 $$ D3 www.CometsIndoorSoccer.com Kansas City’s indoor soccer team.

KC Renegades

Lakeside Speedway

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

Rink Ratz

KC T-Bones

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.

KC Comets

1020 Kent St., Liberty, MO 816.792.0590 $ D2 www.SkateLiberty.net

5615 Wolcott Dr., KC, KS 913.299.9206 $ A3 www.LakesideSpeedway.net The half-mile dirt track is part of NASCAR’s weekly racing series

MU Athletics 1 Champions Dr., Columbia, MO 800.228.7297 $$ D3 www.MUTigers.com College teams for the University of Missouri, including basketball, football, baseball, cross country, track and field.

64 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

Sporting KC

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

Rock Wall Climbing The Cave Bouldering Gym

3150 Mercier St., #641a, KC, MO 816.569.5792 $ C3 www.TheCaveBouldering.com Kansas City’s only dedicated bouldering gym is now open.

Emerald City Gymnastics

9063 Bond, OP, KS 913.438.4444 $ B4 www.EmeraldCityGym.com/rockwall Monster Mountain is 5,000 square feet of vertical and horizontal indoor climbing.

513 SW Keystone Dr, Blue Springs, MO 816.229.7793 $ D4 www.rinkratzsk8.com/home

River Roll Skate Center

4720 NW Gateway Ave., KC, MO 816.587.0131 $ C2 www.RiverRoll.com 10440 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.888.6668 $ B4 www.SkateCityKansas.com 7838 Washington Ave., KC, KS 913.788.7788 $ A3 www.SkateCityLegends.com

Skate City Shawnee

9800 W. 62nd Ter., Shawnee, KS 913.262.0711 $ B3 www.SkateCityShawnee.com

Skate Zone KC

Great Mall of the Great Plains: 20355 W. 151st St., Olathe, KS 913.568.2498 $ www.SkateZoneKC.com

A5

Wheel Thing Skate Center

1719 Metropolitan Ave., Leavenworth, KS 913.682.7677 $ A1 www.RollinFun.com

Winnwood Skate Center

4426 NE Winn Rd., KC, MO 816.452.1171 $ C2 www.WinnwoodSk8.com

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.

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

*Map not to scale.

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kcgoingplaces.com 65

66 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

BIG

things are happening at The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

The museum, formerly Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City, will be opening its doors in a

little while. Beginning Saturday, August 1, 2015, explore new

exhibits and interactive experiences.

We’re chugging along!

It’s almost time!

Reopening: August 1, 2015

OPEN DAILY: 10 AM – 4PM, CLOSED TUESDAYS

5235 OAK STREET K ANSAS CIT Y, MO 64112

816.235.8000

kcgoingplaces.com 67 TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG

L EXP

ORE

KANSAS CITY ZOO Watch Polar Bears

New

Orangutan Canopy Coming in Late Spring 2015

Flip and Splash at

Polar Bear Passage, Penguins Waddle and dive at Helzberg Penguin Plaza

and much, much more!

2015 FOTZ Memberships NOW AVAILABLE!

Always a New Adventure!

OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

68 kc going places | SPRING & SUMMER 2015

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.