KC Going Places Magazine 2022 by KC Parent Magazine

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

2022

kcgoingplaces.com

637

AMAZING ATTRACTIONS

KID PICKS FAMILY FAVES IN KC

SENSATIONAL SEASONAL EXPERIENCES

FOODIE ADVENTURES DISH UP FUN

FAMILY FUN EVENTS May 14 Hallmarket: A Hallmark Art Festival May 28 - Sept. 5 Curious George™ : Let’s Get Curious!

CG TV: TM & © Universal Studios and/or HMCo.

June 4 Hospital Hill Run

• Halls Kansas City

• Outdoor Festivals, Events and Exhibits

• Kaleidoscope

• Santa’s Gingerbread Station

• LEGOLAND® Discovery Center • Seasonal Outdoor Ice Skating • Live Theater • SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium • Mayor’s Christmas Tree • Shopping & Dining

June 11 The Heartland All British Car Show and Jaguar Concours D’Elegance June 17 - 18 Boulevardia July 8, 15, 22, and 29 WeekEnder - outdoor movies, food trucks and local bands August 6 Innovation Festival September 2 - 4 Kansas City Irish Fest October 7 - 8 KC Oktoberfest Nov. 4, 2022 - Mar. 12, 2023 Crown Center Ice Terrace 50th Season November 25 Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Feb. 11 - Apr. 30, 2023 Funville: What do you want to be?

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CONTENTS

FEATURES 8 Go See Kansas City Explore the best our city has to offer

16 Fun Food Experiences Creative dining options

18 Four Fabulous Seasons Your guide to year-round traditions

24 Experience KC with a Disability Visiting the best accessible attractions

26 Get Your DIY On Make and take opportunities

28 Multigenerational Trip in KC An all-ages itinerary to see the sights

50 What’s Hot, Kansas City?

Sizzlin’ spots to have a good time

62 Bucket List Bonuses Unique add-ons for your KC vacay

GO PLACES

HISTORIC PLACES 42

CREATIVE PLACES 30 32 33

paint, sew, make things culinary experiences art museums

FUN PLACES

SCIENCE PLACES 48 48 49 49

38 38 39 40

and entertainment centers children’s museums and indoor playgrounds

ADVENTUROUS PLACES

56 56 57 59 60 60

zip lines, rock walls, obstacle courses and sky diving trampoline parks and bounce houses wheels, water and sky escape rooms, mystery theater and thrills

science museums zoos, aquariums and farms gardens conservation centers

THEATRICAL PLACES

34 amusement parks, arcades 36

history museums and tours

live theater, dance and entertainment

SPORTS PLACES

pro, semi-pro and college sports bowling pools skating sports museums complexes, batting cages and golf

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“AWESOME MUSEUM! Our kids were engaged the entire time.” TripAdvisor Review

“THE NEW BENCHMARK! for presidential museums.” Microsoft News

STEP INTO THE ALL NEW

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

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

2022

kcgoingplaces.com

Welcome to my hometown— where the fragrance of barbecue is always in the air! We love our city and we hope you do, too! As you flip the pages of KC Going Places, you’ll learn of our signature fountains and their rich history, get acquainted with some of our most famous citizens and historic sites and discover the newest attractions, exhibits and events. Visitors often ask me, “If you only have a few days— what would you see?” That is impossible to answer with a one-size-fits-all solution, but we’ve collected a great multigenerational itinerary for families, top picks for kids, seasonal favorites and recommendations for visitors of all abilities. For a “quick overview” of the city, be sure to visit downtown where you can enjoy shopping at Crown Center, playing with children at Legoland, taking a trip to the top of the tower at the National WWI Museum and Memorial and visiting Union Station. Take a ride aboard the free KC Streetcar where you can enjoy stops along the way, including the KC Power & Light District and City Market. We always look forward to seasonal traditions including Monarchs baseball games in the summer, pumpkin patches in the fall, ice-skating at Crown Center in the winter and berry picking every spring. You’ll find an abundance of festivals, shows, exhibits and special events on the KCParent.com calendar to enjoy year-round. These are just a few of our favorite ways to explore our city. You’ll find many more as you flip through the pages of KC Going Places. Welcome to Kansas City! We’re happy you’re here and we hope you love it just as much as we do!

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Managing Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Editor Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Margaret Bristow, Shawnee Julie Collett, Overland Park Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Roy Harryman, Lee’s Summit Julie McKinley, Lee’s Summit Joy Oufnac, Shawnee Andrea Plunkett, Kansas City Jessica Samuel, Kansas City Lyra Thompson, Kansas City Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone 913.681.5139 fax

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637

AMAZING ATTRACTIONS

KID PICKS FAMILY FAVES IN KC

SENSATIONAL SEASONAL EXPERIENCES

Kristina Light, Editor FOODIE ADVENTURES DISH UP FUN

Cover illustration by John Hayes, Lenexa

KC GOING PLACES | 2022

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.

GO SEE KC

Go Explore Midtown Visit Swope Park, Kansas City’s gem of a green space that is even larger than New York’s Central Park. Meet exotic animals at the Kansas City Zoo at Swope Park, where you can enjoy the new alligator exhibit opening this year. Be sure also to visit the camel feeding deck, touch stingrays, visit Berlin the polar bear and explore the Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Billy Goats Gruff, Sumatran tiger exhibit, Australia and the world-class Africa exhibit. The adventurous can spend a day at Go Ape, a two- to three-hour obstacle course that includes 40 crossings featuring rope bridges, five zip lines, Tarzan swings and net bridges.

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Kansas City Zoo

The Country Club Plaza, the first shopping district designed for shoppers traveling by automobile, is the pride of Kansas City. Throughout the year, this district along Brush Creek is home to several festivals and fairs, including Illuminated Waters over Memorial Day Weekend, the Dragon Boat Festival in June and the Plaza Art Fair in September. With shops, restaurants, amazing architecture, numerous fountains and amazing art, this is a favorite attraction for locals and visitors alike. Nearby, visit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. The museum houses a charming world of toys with interactive exhibits that take visitors on a stroll down memory lane.

Kansas City boasts 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. The Sculpture Garden on the lawn is a favorite place for outdoor photos and a walk through art history. For modern art enthusiasts, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art exhibits permanent and temporary collections with special events and workshops for families. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 8

KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Go Explore Crown Center District Visit Crown Center for many attractions, great shops and restaurants. Families enjoy skating at the Ice Terrace, the city’s original outdoor rink, throughout the winter. The Coterie produces professional children’s theater year-round. Kaleidoscope is a free kid-friendly art center where imaginations know no limits as kids create their own masterpieces. Sea Life features a walk-through underwater tunnel and an enthralling journey from the fresh waters of the Missouri River to the saltwater of the Atlantic Ocean. The Legoland Discovery Center provides a range of interactive play areas, including a 4D cinema, classes, an exciting Lego ride and one-of-akind Lego exhibits.

Crown Center

At Union Station, you may board the KC Streetcar for a free ride from Union Station to City Market with many stops along the way. Nearby, visit the National Archives of Kansas City with free history exhibits and staff on hand to assist with research projects. Enjoy lunch at a variety of restaurants nearby. For barbecue, enjoy Jack Stack, for Italian eat at Lidia’s and if you’re dining with kids, enjoy Fritz’s where trains deliver food to your table. Wanting to eat locally grown food? Try Unforked or, for steak, try Pierpont’s. These are just a few favorite restaurants in the area. Jack Stack

Spend a day at the National World War I Museum and Memorial, exploring the interactive displays, thought-provoking films and eyewitness testimonies that help guide visitors through one of the largest collections of WWI artifacts in the world. Then take a tour to the top of this iconic landmark, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline. One of the most notable landmarks you’ll see is Union Station, home to Kansas City’s Science City with great hands-on science exhibits for children and the Gottlieb Planetarium, one of the largest 360-degree domed screens in the Midwest. Nearby, make a stop at the Money Museum, a free museum where visitors leave with a souvenir bag of shredded cash. Science City at Union Station KCGOINGPLACES.COM

GO SEE KC

Go Explore Downtown KCMO One of Kansas City’s most famous historic neighborhoods is 18th & Vine. Two museums in the district celebrate the city’s past. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum showcases the history of American baseball from the African-American perspective, beginning in 1863, and acquaints you with many famous local baseball stars. Measure up against the life-size bronze statues of players in mid-game on the baseball diamond. Visitors can experience Kansas City jazz and celebrate our finest musicians at the American Jazz Museum and enjoy a live concert at the Gem or the Blue Room.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Kansas City’s arts, antiques and dining districts roll out the red carpet all month long with special hours, sales and events on weekends. You’ll find a complete schedule of events on KCParent.com when you search “Weekend Guide.” Top picks include First Fridays in the Crossroads, enjoyed by more than 10,000 people who head to the cultural arts district for free peeks at galleries and studios, delicious treats from food trucks and restaurants and entertainment from street performers. On a tour of the Arabia Steamboat Museum, in the River Market, learn about the excavation of the 1850s steamboat and her treasure on display at the 25,000-square-foot museum. Arabia Steamboat Museum

Board the KC Streetcar for a free ride through downtown. Stop in the Power & Light District to enjoy a local restaurant or live theater. Stop into Cosentino’s for fresh food or a local souvenir and take their elevator to the rooftop park to enjoy a stroll on green grass. For another great view, head to the top of KCMO’s City Hall for 360-degree views of downtown (Mon.-Fri. 9:00-3:00). Also explore the Central Library with its famous painted bookshelf parking garage, and the River Market District where you can enjoy many tasty restaurants and fun shopping experiences. KC Streetcar 10 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Go Explore Eastern Jackson County Independence is rich with history as the starting point of the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails and home of President Harry S. Truman. You can learn about his humble lifestyle at the Truman Home in Independence and visit the newly renovated Truman Presidential Library. Visit other historic sites including Vaile Mansion, the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, the Jail Museum and the National Frontier Trails Museum, all hosting events throughout the year and specially decorated for the holidays. Another favorite for history buffs is a ride aboard Pioneer Trails Adventures where you can take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the historic square while hearing stories of the city’s history.

Truman Presidential Library

Nature lovers enjoy a visit to Powell Gardens, home to a beautiful island garden, rock wall garden, conservatory, Heartland Harvest Garden and acres of trails with magnificent flowers, plants and prairie. In the fall, enjoy scarecrows in the gardens, Glow: A Jack-o’-Lantern Festival and cooking demos by local chefs. During the holiday season, enjoy the Festival of Lights, a magical holiday event. On your way, stop at Cockrell’s Mercantile, a quaint mini village of boutique shops where you’ll find special items for the home and kitchen. For a free outing, visit Burr Oak Woods Nature Center where you can walk miles of trails. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center

Downtown Lee’s Summit is home to shops and boutiques, including bookstores, hobby shops, clothing boutiques, art galleries, cooking stores and more. Their quaint weekend farmers market is a favorite for locals. Visit Sky Zone in Lee’s Summit (additional locations available across the metro), a trampoline park with obstacle courses and games. Or, entertain the gang at Main Event in Independence, where you can enjoy arcades, bowling, billiards, laser tag, obstacle courses and more family fun. Independence Community Ice is an indoor ice-skating rink open year-round. Downtown Lee’s Summit KCGOINGPLACES.COM 11

GO SEE KC

Go Explore Johnson County Living history museums are a favorite local attraction, with several historic sites telling the area’s history through reenactments and hands-on education. 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 snowy Saturdays, enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides on the property. Shawnee Town 1929 is a slightly more modern village where families explore living history firsthand. Families also enjoy Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. The 12-acre park is home to more than 200 farm animals, gardens, a dairy barn, pony rides and much more. Shawnee Town 1929

The Johnson County Museum is one of the metro’s best resources for local history. With award-winning long-term exhibits featuring local history, including the beloved 1950s electric house and displays remembering local businesses, as well as changing exhibits, the museum is a great place to spend a day. Little ones love the hands-on play space at KidScape where they can play and imagine they are grown up in a pintsized village. This is a top pick for visitors who have come to town for an event at the Overland Park Convention Center. Nearby, be sure to spend an evening at Topgolf, an entertainment complex for golf enthusiasts. Johnson County Museum

Adventure lovers enjoy iFly KC, an indoor skydiving facility. The indoor skydiving is a simulation of true freefall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel. Urban Air Overland Park (additional locations) is a favorite indoor trampoline park, with an indoor playground and fun for all ages with obstacle courses and games. Create family keepsakes at Ceramics Cafe and other paint-your-own pottery shops. Patrons select and paint their own ceramic masterpieces—anything from piggy banks to plates, mugs to picture frames. They offer glass fusing workshops as well. Explore textile arts at Harper’s Quilts or The Studio. Or, head to Dream Dinners where you can build freezer meals from scratch to enjoy with the family all month long. Urban Air Overland Park 12 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Go Explore Kansas Head west to Legends Outlets for a day of shopping and local attractions. The shopping center features tributes to local celebrities with banners, statues and artwork. Catch a movie at the theater or listen to a concert on the Lawn. Then, visit Nebraska Furniture Mart, the largest furniture retailer in the region, and Cabela’s, an outdoor store with an amazing aquarium and animal exhibits. Top it all off with a Monarchs baseball game! Sunday Fundays in the summer are a great time to enjoy a game. Families love the day at the ballpark with inflatables, carnival games and player meet-and-greets. Legends Outlets

The Cosmosphere in Hutchinson is one of the state’s finest museums. The museum is home to the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts in the world. The exhibits take visitors through the history of the Cold War and up through the modern era and include both the history and science of the space program. The museum houses Sputnik I and II, space suits, rockets, a moon rock and more than 100 artifacts. Strataca is a one-of-akind experience through an underground salt mine museum. Visitors are taken on a 650-foot journey underground to the 68-degree mine (bring a light jacket), where they discover the history of salt mining in Kansas. Cosmosphere

Have you ever wanted to swim with penguins? Pet a sloth? Hold a lemur? Believe it or not, there is a magical zoo right in the heart of Kansas (near Wichita) where you can do all that and more! Tanganyika Wildlife Park is unlike any other zoo we’ve visited—this privately owned zoo is small and intimate, but every exhibit is beautiful, immaculate, and spacious and offers the most natural habitat possible for the animals. Visitors customize their park experience with the activities they book. You may elect to participate in all their “Wildly Different Experiences” or purchase the opportunities a la carte. Tanganyika Wildlife Park KCGOINGPLACES.COM 13

GO SEE KC

Go Explore the Northland Enjoy both Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun for the price of one ticket. Worlds of Fun boasts seven world-class roller coasters, including the Patriot, Mamba and Timberwolf, classic carnival rides and water rides like Fury of the Nile and Viking Voyager. Kids love Planet Snoopy where they enjoy more than 20 familyfriendly rides and attractions. In addition to great rides, visitors enjoy live shows and meetand-greets with the Peanuts Gang. Oceans of Fun offers fantastic attractions, including Aruba Tuba, Surf City Wave Pool, Buccaneer Bay, Coconut Cove and Splash Island, a 4,200-square-foot interactive water attraction!

Worlds of Fun

Historic downtown Liberty, MO, is home to the Jesse James Bank Museum, site of the first recorded daytime bank robbery. On the square, enjoy local cafes, boutiques and shops, including Blanc Palette, a paint-yourown masterpiece studio where pet paintings are a favorite project. On the fourth Friday of the month from 6:00 to 8:00, meet local artists at the Artisan Market where you can browse and shop more than 500 pieces of original art. Check out new art events every fourth Friday. For entertainment, catch a live show at the Corbin Theatre, where you can enjoy musical theater, live music and stage shows. Throughout the year, catch a performance with the Liberty Symphony. Jesse James Bank Museum

Couples enjoy getaways in the Northland where they experience Mystery Dinner Theater at Belvoir Winery in Liberty, MO, a beautiful inn, winery and garden with special events throughout the year. Or stay at the historic Elms Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs, hosting everyone from politicians to gangsters. Experience the area’s history on a weekend retreat. Weston, MO, is another great spot to spend the weekend. The town is home to numerous bed and breakfasts, local restaurants, shops, wineries, breweries and orchards. Another local favorite is Parkville, MO, with beautiful riverfront views, a historic main street with a variety of boutiques and restaurants, and local attractions. 14 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Weston, MO

Go Explore the Country Johnson Farms in Belton, MO, is a beautiful agritourism attraction where you can shop the gorgeous nursery, pick apples in the late summer and veggies and pumpkins in the fall. Also in Belton, visitors love riding aboard the Belton, Grandview and Kansas City Railroad, an excursion train offering a 5-mile, 45-minute round trip ride aboard a 1920s-era passenger coach, open-air excursion car or 1950s diesel locomotive through Old Towne Belton on weekends. Throughout the summer they offer theme rides, including hot dog, ice cream and holiday specials. Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafes or restaurants in the historic district. Johnson Farms

Sip freshly made cider at Louisburg Cider Mill, where visitors watch as cider is pressed and cider donuts are made. Cedar Cove in Louisburg, KS, is an animal refuge for endangered or rescued big cats, including leopards, cougars, wolves, bobcats, a white tiger, black leopards and caracals. On Saturdays through October, visit Powell Observatory for a public stargazing session through one of the largest telescopes in the region. Every spring Miami County hosts a farm tour (May 11-12) where visitors are invited to tour 14 local farms and agricultural sites. Visit a pecan farm, bison ranch, alpaca farm, Hereford farm, goat farms, wineries and more. Cedar Cove

The Overland Park Arboretum is a 300acre botanical garden offering a beautiful outdoor oasis. Explore the Children’s Garden’s whimsical garden trains, wooded paths and the beloved Monet Garden. This is one of the region’s most scenic and relaxing attractions. Enjoy special events including Enchanted Faire (June 1), Stems: A Garden Soiree (June 22) and Whirlwind: Art in Motion tours throughout the summer. The gardens are always affordable, but admission is free on Tuesdays. A few miles from the gardens, head to Rye Studio in Stilwell, KS, where you can take a photo with the You Have My Heart art wall. This is just one art wall in the metro—you’ll find directions to many more on KCParent.com. Overland Park Arboretum KCGOINGPLACES.COM 15

Strawberry Hill Povitica

FUN FOOD

EXPERIENCES

CREATIVE CULTURE: Stop in for a little DIY project and a gourmet milkshake while you’re at it! Featuring flavors like cookie dough, brownie fudge or birthday cake, as well as a variety of seasonal and holiday flavors, Creative Culture crafts a milkshake like no other! All shakes are served in a mason jar you get to take home, along with whatever DIY project you choose. CHICKEN N PICKLE: With a mission “to provide an atmosphere that fosters fun, friendship and community for all ages,” this spot is a treat waiting for you to experience. Overland Park mom of three Christy Bennett shares, “We had so much fun as a family because there were many entertaining options … shuffleboard, ping pong and foosball just while we waited for food, which was tasty, too!” FRITZ’S: If you have lived here for long, you know Fritz’s is a Kansas City icon! Whether or not you have a train lover, watch the wonder on your child’s 16 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

face as food is delivered right to your table by a tiny train! You even place your order by “calling” the kitchen from a little phone at your table, which kids think is pretty cool too. Fritz’s is still family owned and operated, having recently celebrated its 65th anniversary. STRAWBERRY HILL: Made in KC since 1903, Strawberry Hill’s povitica (po-va-teet-sa) is a treat to watch being made, and you can even score a free sample! This family’s secret recipe from Croatia has been around for more than a century. You can even schedule a free bakery tour for groups of 10 or more. Tours are appropriate for ages 6 and up and last approximately 30-45 minutes. FREEZING MOO: Rolled ice cream?! Say what?! I must say, the first time I heard about this unique take on ice cream, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. Freezing Moo actually features Thai fried ice cream rolls, which are handmade and then poured onto an “iced grill” where you can have fun

and yummy treats mixed in. When I took our daughter, she was able to pick her flavor from one of their many options then watch behind a glass window as they made it right in front of her. This sweet spot offers dairy-free and vegan options, so you are sure to find something for everyone here! GYU-KAKU JAPANESE BBQ: This Overland Park restaurant may not be on your radar for family fun, but it should be! Leawood mom of three Krista Gordon, says, “Although a bit pricey, the lively atmosphere and fast service make this a fun family outing. The food comes out in shifts to keep kids busy, which is helpful that there isn’t much lag time. The small grill in the middle of the table is entertaining, and with a little bit of coaching (and supervision of course!) kids can manage independently.” Julie Collett is a mom of four whose kids love Fritz’s but are looking forward to trying something new!

Friday, August 26

Tickets on Sale Now! Limited tickets available. Early bird discount through July 1!

www.KansasCityZoo.org/Jazzoo

FOUR SEASONS OF FUN IN KC

Kansas City Monarchs

CITY OF FOUNTAINS

Spring

Kansas Citians know our home as the City of Fountains, but you may not know that our first fountains were not for ornamental purposes. They were rather utilitarian, to provide water for horses, dogs and birds. The city’s first fountain was built in 1904 at Fourth & Minnesota for horses and dogs. It featured a large pedestal and a granite basin, and the water spewed from the mouths of lions into a taller bowl where people could get clean water as well. Since that time, it is said we have added more fountains than Rome. Find a map to local fountains at KCFountains.com.

FARMERS MARKETS Kansas City is home to more than 30 farmers markets. They range from small markets selling exclusively organic produce to the City Market with more than 140 local vendors. You can purchase fruits, vegetables, plants, herbs, homemade soaps, baked goods and even live animals. If you are new to the world of the farmers market, this simple guide will get you started: Search Farmers Market Guide on KC Parent.com.

BARBECUE You know it’s spring in Kansas City when the aroma of barbecue fills the air. It’s hard to resist the temptation to pick up ribs at Fairway Market when driving along Ward Parkway, or a weekend stop at one of our favorite barbecue joints. Enjoying barbecue is part of our city heritage. In 1908, Kansas City’s king of barbecue, Henry Perry, sold a slab of

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pork ribs for 25 cents in the 18th & Vine neighborhood. Since that time, our city has created an art form, developing the best sauces and smoking the tastiest meats in the United States. According to the Kansas City Barbecue Society, we have more barbecue restaurants per capita than any other city in the United States.

BASEBALL Since 1969, Kansas Citians have been cheering for the Royals who’ve won two World Series Championships. You can also catch a game with the Kansas City Monarchs (part of the American Association of Baseball), now at home in Kansas City, KS. The team, formerly the T-Bones, rebranded in a partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and celebrates part of Kansas City’s rich baseball history.

RIDE A ROLLER COASTER Worlds of Fun is home to seven world-class roller coasters, including one of the tallest, longest and fastest roller coasters in the world. This thriller is the Mamba and boasts a first drop of 205 feet! The Patriot is a giant inverted coaster with four inversions that carries riders at a top speed of 65 mph. Enjoy a thrill as the entire family rides together on the Spinning Dragons, where the cars freely rotate along the track. Or ride the classic wooden roller coaster, the Timber Wolf. Young children enjoy Planet Snoopy with great rides for kids, and the theme park boasts dozens of thrill rides and attractions for guests of all ages.

WILD WATER FUN

SPEND A LAZY DAY AT THE LAKE

Splash into summer fun at Kansas City’s premier outdoor water park! With waves of fun from mild to wild, Oceans of Fun offers an amazing time for everyone in the family. Extreme waterslides appeal to thrill-seekers, and kiddos love the pint-sized slides, geysers and fountains at Crocodile Isle. Float along the Caribbean Cooler lazy river and catch some waves at the fan favorite Surf City Wave Pool. One of the newest attractions is Riptide Raceway, the world’s longest mat racing waterslide. From five stories high, racers will speed down 486 feet in enclosed, winding tubes and around a 360-degree loop before an epic splashdown finish. Visitors to Oceans of Fun enjoy Worlds of Fun admission for the price of one ticket.

A day at the lake is a quintessential summer pastime, and Lake Olathe is one of our favorite local lakes with a beautiful swim beach and inflatable aqua park. For landlocked Midwesterners, it’s great to have a place where you can build sandcastles, swim with the family and jump into the water from a giant floating playground. Lake Olathe Park visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and pedal boats at the marina. The upper lawn at the lake is surrounded by landscaping and a small stream with a water feature flowing into a waterfall before ending in a pond.

ANIMAL ADVENTURES The Kansas City Zoo is better than ever! We’re big fans of the African Sky Safari (a ski lift styled ride above Africa offering great views of the animals), the train, boat and carousel rides and the world-class animal exhibits. The Elephant Expedition, Camel feeding station, Discovery Barn, Australia exhibit, Helzberg Penguin Plaza and Polar Bear Passage are just a few of our favorite attractions at the zoo. Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is another favorite outdoor attraction. The petting zoo and farm offers fantastic educational attractions for the family. Pony rides, wagon rides, miniature tractors, an old-fashioned school, mining camp, gardens and farm animals are just part of the fun.

Downtown Days in Lee’s Summit

A STROLL THROUGH THE GARDEN Flowers are blooming! Powell Gardens, Loose Park’s Rose Garden, Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden and the Overland Park Arboretum are just a few of our favorite places to enjoy the blooms. Discover Kansas City’s local nature centers and gardens using our interactive Going Places Guide to Kansas City on KCParent.com.

SUMMER FESTIVALS From trendy boutique shopping to old-fashioned county fairs, ethnic festivals with delicious delicacies and local barbecue festivals ... there is something for everyone! Some of our favorites include Celebration at the Station, Great Balloon Glow, Strawberry Festival, Festival of Butterflies, Waterfire, Grand Carnivale at Worlds of Fun, Great Lenexa BBQ Battle, Jazzoo, Fourth of July festivals, Missouri State Fair, Ethnic Enrichment Festival and more.

Summer KCGOINGPLACES.COM 19

APPLE PICKING Autumn and apples … the two go hand in hand, and this fall you can create family memories as you pick apples at a local orchard. Check out one of our top three favorite Missouri apple orchards: Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch in Kearney, Weston Orchard and Johnson Farms in Belton. Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch is home to a variety of animals including miniature horses. Their Keebler Village playground features terrific tree houses kids love to explore, and the patch offers jumping pillows and other attractions to enjoy, including a train ride. Weston Orchard takes families on hayrides and offers jumping pillows, a petting zoo and a variety of fun play spaces and fabulous photo ops. Johnson Farms is a beautiful agritourism site with a nice orchard and tons of fun during pumpkin season. Their pig races, goat play yard, petting zoo and variety of play spaces are always tons of fun.

PUMPKINS Autumn isn’t complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Corn mazes, trains, play spaces, hayrides, corn cribs, carousels, zip lines, rides, concerts, ponies and pumpkins are just a few of the enticements Kansas City’s pumpkin patches have to offer visitors. In addition to the farms listed for apple picking, we also love Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch and Louisburg Cider Mill’s pumpkin patches. Carolyn’s is one of the biggest patches in the metro and has been enjoyed by generations of families. Their famous pumpkin donuts, fabulous petting zoo, jumping pillows, train, pig races, carousel and fall fun play spaces

GloWild at the Kansas City Zoo

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create a carnival atmosphere the entire family loves. Check out the KC Pumpkin Patch Guide on KCParent.com to discover the best patches in town.

AUTUMN AT THE ZOO We love visiting the Kansas City Zoo on a fall day when the air is crisp and the animals are playful. This fall, experience GloWild and see the zoo in a whole new light with a unique and immersive nighttime experience. GloWild will illuminate the Kansas City Zoo with custom handmade lighted sculptures. Also in October enjoy Hoots and Howls at the Zoo and Boo at the Zoo. Visit KansasCityZoo.org for more information.

FALL FESTIVALS Autumn means fall festivals in Kansas City! Enjoy food, crafts, rides, barbecue and more. Some of our favorites include Lenexa’s Spinach Festival, Missouri Town 1855’s Fall Arts and Crafts Fair, American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Shawnee Town 1929 Fall Festival, KC Zoo Run, Great Pumpkinfest, Plaza Art Fair, Louisburg Ciderfest, Lee’s Summit Oktoberfest, Kaw Valley Farm Tour, Weston Applefest, Miami County Fall Farm Tour, Enchanted Forest and more. Find them all in our Festival Guide on KCParent.com.

RIDE THE RAILS Enjoy an autumn-themed train excursion with the entire family. On weekends, enjoy rides aboard the Belton, Grandview & KC Railroad. Call for more information: 816.331.0630.

Fall

Crown Center Ice Terrace

ICE-SKATING

Winter

Enjoy skating at one of Kansas City’s outdoor rinks. The Crown Center Ice Terrace (2425 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.274.8411) is located in the heart of downtown. Enjoy an entire day of shopping and dining at Crown Center or treat the kids to Legoland or Sea Life. During the holidays, enjoy the view of the mayor’s Christmas tree illuminated in holiday splendor. The Rink at Zona Rosa (8731 N. Stoddard Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.208.3690) is the Northland’s newest ice rink. Zona Rosa is one of the city’s premier shopping destinations. Additional outdoor rinks: Summit Ice: 120 NE Chipman Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO, 816.249.2600. Linden Square Ice Rink: 602 NE 70th St., Gladstone, MO, 816.423.4200. The Ice at Park Place: 11549 Ash St., Leawood, KS, 913.663.2070. The Rink at T.B. Hanna Station: 214 S. Washington St., Raymore, MO.

Longview Lake Park (I-470 & View High Drive, Kansas City, MO, 816.503.4800). With more than 500,000 lights, 175 animated figures and splashes of Christmas color, this is an enchanting drive-thru winter wonderland. Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights: Country Club Plaza (Info Center: 4745 Central, Kansas City, MO, CountryClubPlaza.com). Enjoy more than 80 miles of illuminated strings of bulbs. Find even more displays using our guide to the Best Christmas Lights in KC on KCParent.com.

LIVING HISTORY The Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm is one of our favorite local history sites. The staff and volunteers bring history to life with annual events celebrating Christmas, teaching families how early pioneers survived winter and offering horse-drawn sled rides on snowy days!

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

HIT THE SLOPES

Kansas City sparkles in holiday splendor with magnificent displays across the metro! Explore some of our favorites. Legendary Christmas: Legends Outlets Kansas City (1843 Village West Pkwy., Kansas City, KS, LegendsShopping.com). Unique lighting display on a 45-foot holiday tree created by a world-renowned technology-driven holiday lights team, all synchronized to music. Winter Magic: Located at 8400 Blue River Rd., Kansas City, MO. Enjoy one of the most fantastic of drive-thru holiday events in Kansas City. Crown Center Mayor’s Christmas Tree: Crown Center Square (2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, CrownCenter.com). The 100-foottall tree is adorned with 7,200 lights. Christmas in the Park:

Head to Weston, MO, for skiing and snowboarding at Snow Creek Ski Resort (816.640.2200). In early winter, the facility offers snow skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing and lessons for beginners. The most daring experience at Snow Creek is tubing at Tornado Alley. Slide down a 700-footlong slope and then jump onto a special conveyor carpet “twister” for a ride back up!

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS Kansas City celebrates Christmas in style! Professional live shows, living Nativities, outdoor holiday festivals and local traditions can all be found at KCParent.com/christmas-in-kc. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 21

Must-See Museums

Kansas City Museum Photo by Margaret Bristow

Kansas City has an abundance of outstanding museums to visit, but here are some not to be missed!

22 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures First established in 1982 as the Toy and Miniature Museum, this national gem is located on the University of Missouri Kansas City campus and contains more than 33,000 square feet of childhood nostalgia. Recently remodeled and expanded, this fun museum houses the largest collection of fine-scale miniatures in the world. The craftsmanship and intricate, detailed work involved in making these tiny, exquisite masterpieces ignite the imagination of young and old alike.

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures Photo by Margaret Bristow

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site

This museum also houses an exceptional toy collection—one of the largest in the nation and one that spans the centuries from the 1700s to the present day. Visitors can take a wellcurated, interactive journey through childhood, culture and the toys that defined each generation. The toy exhibit is educational, entertaining and handson. The doll and doll house collections are especially impressive. Visitors can see examples of dolls, their clothing and accessories and how they changed through time. The museum has dozens of well-preserved and well-loved doll houses on display—and they range in size from the miniscule to the magnificent. The attention to detail in every room is remarkable—hours could be spent looking at all the clever details. The curators of this collection have created a truly special place for children and adults to learn—or reminisce—about the past and the origins of beloved playthings.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site is another great living history museum. Mahaffie offers a plethora of programs for all ages. Visitors can take a ride on a real stagecoach and relive the days when the farmstead was a stop along the Santa Fe, Oregon and California trails to the West. Guests can also watch the blacksmith at work or sample a meal that would have been prepared for stagecoach passengers in the cool basement kitchen that doubled as a dining hall. Be sure to check out the Calendar of Events on their website!

exciting or unusual on every floor, from the fossil of a T. rex, to rocks that glow in the dark and even a live bee colony! Younger children will love Bugtown, a cute playroom where they can view and learn about different insects. The large-scale animal habitat panorama is usually the first stop for most visitors and is most impressive in its size and scope. Throughout the museum, there are hands-on learning stations for visitors to explore a topic or subject more in depth. Children can also complete a fun and educational scavenger hunt and receive a prize upon completion.

Kansas City Museum

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum

Originally built as an opulent residence by the influential Long family in 1907, Corinthian Hall opened in 1940 as a museum dedicated to showcasing the history of Kansas City. The newly renovated museum reopened recently in 2021 with four floors of exhibits, galleries and art installations, as well as a café and a revamped soda fountain in the basement. Step back in time to what the mansion looked like when the Long family lived there. Explore an exhibit tracing the history of Kansas City from its earliest beginnings to the present. And, take in the spectacular view of the Kansas City skyline from the lawn before leaving—the museum sits atop a hill overlooking Kessler Park and Cliff Drive.

University of Kansas Natural History Museum There is so much to explore on the four floors of this fascinating museum! A working biodiversity research center on the University campus, this museum has been popular with schoolchildren on field trips for several generations. Discover something

In the summer of 2021, the Truman Library reopened after a major renovation and upgrade. The focus of the updated museum is on a cinematic immersion into U.S. and world history. Tru History is a soundand-light theater production that relates some of the most dramatic chapters of history from WWI to the Cold War in a new and exciting medium. The new exhibitions also include more than 230 artifacts (including some never before seen from the Korean War) and hundreds of documents, letters and facsimiles. Other new features include a 14-foot interactive globe, a roleplaying Cold War game and new exhibits on Truman’s family life and legacy. While you’re in Independence, another must-visit museum is President Truman’s longtime home, now the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site.

Margaret Bristow is a Kansas City native with a passion for local history and sharing that history with her family.

Living History Museums Shawnee Town 1929 offers a great calendar of events planned for the year. Just a few options to choose from are the History on Tap lecture series for adults that takes place in Town Hall. In the town farmhouse, you can enjoy varying period food preparation demonstrations throughout the year, and weekly, on summertime Tuesdays and Thursdays, the always popular Time Travelers Children’s Program engages youngsters. Bring the kids and learn a new period craft or participate in a farm chore or special event! In the summer, they also offer the musical outdoor series Jammin’ on the Green.

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum

A DIFFERENT WAY TO ENJOY: EXPERIENCING KANSAS CITY WITH A

DISABILITY

s a person with a disability, I experience Kansas City a little differently. I don’t enjoy a trip to a museum or art gallery as much as other people because they’re very visual experiences, and I have a visual impairment. If you or someone you know also has a disability of some kind, let me share some tips for how you can enjoy yourself in Kansas City.

The KC Streetcar: Traveling Independently and Efficiently A big thing is transportation. I can’t drive and never will be able to, but there are a lot of things to do in Kansas City that are spread all across the area. I recommend taking the streetcar that runs through most of downtown Kansas City, MO. It has stops at Union Station, River Market, the Power & Light District 24 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

and everywhere in between. Inside the streetcar, you’ll find wheelchair-accessible seating, and the location of each stop is announced via an automated message over an intercom, so you can hear exactly when you need to get off. The streetcar is free, in contrast to other public transportation like a bus, and it can get you pretty much anywhere you’d need to go in the downtown KCMO area.

Science City: A Sensory Experience When it comes to Kansas City attractions, I’ve had a great time at many places and one of these places is Science City in Union Station. Although technically geared toward kids and teens, this attraction offers something to do for all ages, from toddler to adult. Science City is a great experience for people with disabilities because it’s very hands-on. Most of the exhibits have interesting objects you can pick up with your hands then interact with, making for a very tactile experience. Though there are some visual components, a person with low vision or high sensory needs will still have a good time.

Kansas City Zoo

Legoland: Hands-on Play for Kids Along the same lines of a sensory experience, for younger kids check out Legoland near Crown Center. This fun spot features a few small carnival-like rides inside the attraction and also a play area with lots of room to climb around and play with giant, squishy Lego bricks. Some of the Lego building parts of Legoland require good fine motor skills and possibly some amount of vision, but there’s a lot someone with a disability can enjoy.

Penguin Park: Stimulating Fun If you prefer the outdoors, the metro boasts some great, fun playgrounds that are very stimulating and have a lot to do. One of my favorites is Penguin Park in Kansas City, MO. There’s something for all ages, with lots to climb on and explore. The park has swings, merry-go-rounds and lots of jungle gyms. I love Penguin Park because I love the sensory stimulation

it provides. I can swing on the swings, hang from the monkey bars and get my energy out—and my vision doesn’t affect my enjoyment.

The Kansas City Zoo: An Inclusive Adventure The Kansas City Zoo is very inclusive and has many options for a person with any kind of disability to enjoy a visit there. One of these options is a sensory backpack you can take around with you. The backpack has headphones and weighted blankets for people who are sensitive to noise or who need the sensory input from the blanket. The KC Zoo also provides a golf cart that is wheelchair-accessible and makes it easier to travel around the zoo.

The KC Zoo Inclusive Playground: Fun for Every Child The Kansas City Zoo is also home to the first all-inclusive play exhibit at any zoo in the United States. This inclusive

playground allows children with special needs or wheelchair users to play along with other kids. It has many features, such as a wheelchair-accessible zip line and swings and a low-sensory area for helping calm children. All these inclusive and accessible activities aren’t just for kids, either. No matter who you are or how old you are, you can find something to do in Kansas City—you just might experience it a little differently than someone else, and that’s okay! I face challenges in my life because of my visual impairment, but thanks to all the hands-on, fun attractions around Kansas City, I’ve experienced so many wonderful things despite it. Lyra Thompson is a teenager with a passion for writing and journalism. She has lived in the Kansas City metro area her whole life and loves visiting amusement parks, water parks and hands-on attractions, such as Science City. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 25

GET YOUR DIY ON 26 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Hawaii Fluid Art

Hawaii Fluid Art At Hawaii Fluid Art, located in Zona Rosa, you can create oneof-a-kind art for your home in just one session. Using canvas and paint pouring techniques, the instructors at Hawaii Fluid Art will guide you through the process of making your own piece that you can customize with your own color palette. All you have to do is select the canvas size you want to make and they handle the rest—from materials to cleanup! Real time booking with instant confirmation is available on their website, and wide availability makes it easy to get a group together for girls night or a birthday party, plan a date night or even book private classes. Facebook.com/hawaiifluidartkansascity

Hammerspace Community Workshop Hammerspace is a self-proclaimed “gym for people who build stuff” located in the southeast part of Kansas City, MO. Their wide variety of hands-on classes will let you get your hands dirty in a safe and structured environment. Offering courses in crafts from blacksmithing to silver jewelry making and 3D printing, curious crafters can find options for almost any interest. It’s a great way to try new skills without having to invest in the machinery and equipment yourself, and typically all supplies are included in the cost of the class. You can find the full class schedule on Meet Up, along with all the details of what to wear and bring. They also offer membership options that allow you access to their stocked workshop spaces, perfect for someone who wants to create but doesn’t have the space for a full workshop at home! HammerspaceHobby.com

AR Workshop With several locations in the KC metro area, AR Workshop is the perfect option for groups who want to create together but have a variety of projects from which to choose. At this studio, there is a full schedule of almost daily classes in different mediums: chunky knit blankets, wooden signs, chalkboard displays and more. Multiple “pick your own project” sessions are open each week where you can select from the large list available. For those looking for options outside the group classes, they offer DIY to-go kits with all the materials needed and video instruction. If you want a more customized experience, they also book private group classes! ARWorkshop.com

Public Glassworks Public Glassworks is a hidden treasure where complete novices and experienced glass artists alike can hone their skills. Owner Sara LaGrand and her husband (a marble maker) bring in internationally known glass artists to teach specialty workshops like folk art beads and sculptural faces for those who want to continue expanding their torchwork skills. Beginners can start with private or group bead or marble making classes to learn the basics. The full class schedule and online registration can be found on their website. PublicGlassworksKC.com

KC Maker Studio and Fabrics For those looking to expand their sewing skills, KC Maker Studio hosts structured classes and open sew days at their studio in Mission, KS. If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to the craft, they offer adult learn-to-sew or learn-to-quilt classes that last for six weeks. They also host a Kids Club where kids ages 9-15 can complete three to five projects in a six-week span by working at their own pace with instructor guidance. If you’re looking to try a project on a shorter time frame, they offer one-time classes in subjects like t-shirt quilting, tote bags and pillows. KCMakerStudio.com

Public Glassworks

Taste Buds Kitchen For a hands-on culinary journey, Taste Buds Kitchen in Leawood, KS, hosts classes for both kids and adults. You can learn about any type of cuisine imaginable from Thai, to made-from-scratch noodles, to Sushi (and a lot in between). There are multiple classes each week focusing on different cuisines, so you can come back again and again to explore! For younger chefs, they offer age-appropriate classes, as well as cooking camps scheduled during school holidays and breaks. Many of the classes fill up quickly, and you can browse the schedule and book from their website. TasteBudsKitchen.com

Embers Candle Bar For a completely custom experience from start to finish, make a reservation to pour your own candle at Embers Candle Bar in Lee’s Summit, MO. You’ll start by choosing a container for your candle (they also offer diffusers and room spray options). Next, you’ll test out scents from their list of 63 different options and design your own custom scent. If you’re looking for a certain scent profile (like fall harvest or clean linen), they can help you design just the right blend. After you pour your candle, it needs 60-150 minutes to set up, so you can either explore downtown Lee’s Summit and pick it up the same day or return another day. EmbersCandleBar.com Andrea Plunkett is a local writer and business owner with a passion for adventure.

KC Maker Studio and Fabrics KCGOINGPLACES.COM 27

MULTIGENERATIONAL TRIP

love helping families plan unforgettable multigenerational trips! There is something uniquely special about grandparents and grandchildren playing together, discovering together and making memories together. The Country Club Plaza in Kansas City is the perfect homebase for your next multigeneration adventure with your family! The Country Club Plaza comprises 15 blocks of shopping, dining and historic architecture in the heart of Kansas City. Its location makes it ideal for exploring much of what Kansas City has to offer. In its immediate vicinity are numerous parks and museums, plus it is convenient to downtown Kansas City.

PLACES TO STAY The Plaza offers accommodations for any budget and experience. There are beautiful and historic luxury hotels, such as the Fontaine and the Raphael Hotel, with amazing views of the Plaza and the Kansas City skyline, luxury accommodations and amenities and fine dining options. For families looking for more space and a more budget-friendly option, the Hampton Inn & Suites and Springhill Suites by Marriott are fantastic options, both located on the Northwest side of the Plaza. 28 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

IN KANSAS CITY Other unique options include quaint and welcoming bed and breakfast accommodations, such as the beloved Southmoreland on the Plaza, and numerous units on private rental sites like VRBO and Airbnb.

DINING The Plaza boasts more than 30 restaurants, serving a variety of cuisines and providing a plethora of dining experiences. Enjoy a nice, fresh farm-to-table meal at Rye, a casual and fun family dinner at Chuy’s or the Cheesecake Factory or a unique Asian meal at P. F. Chang’s. Grab a snack or treat at Auntie Anne’s - Cinnabon or Cupcake a la Mode, ice cream at Coldstone Creamery or coffee from Starbucks. For a finer dining experience, try the Capital Grille for a delicious steak or McCormick & Schmick’s for seafood. Another KC favorite is patio dining on the Plaza, and Gram & Dun is a local favorite for fresh air and food!

PARKS Kansas City is famous for its parks and fountains. Take advantage of a beautiful spring day and head to Jacob Loose Park, the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden or Robert Gillham Park, all located in the Plaza area. Grab barbecue to go

from Fiorella’s Jack Stack on the Plaza and enjoy a picnic lunch and some outdoor family fun!

MUSEUMS One of my favorite museums in Kansas City, and one that is perfect for families with a wide range of ages, is the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. This museum, south of the Plaza, is the home of the world’s largest collection of miniatures and one of the largest public collections of historic toys. Grandparents and children alike will enjoy the nostalgia of exploring toys throughout the decades. Located just east of the Plaza are the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Both museums provide families hours of exploring various styles of art, including larger-than-life sculptures on the grounds of the Nelson-Atkins. Venturing north of the Plaza, toward downtown Kansas City, are the National World War I Museum and Memorial and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. These both provide grandparents the opportunity to recall and share some of our nation’s history with their grandchildren. Joy Oufnac, a travel specialist with 3D Travel Company, loves planning and embarking on family adventures!

• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES •

CREATIVE PLACES Brookside Ceramics

Embers Candle Bar

By appointment only, KC, MO 816.522.7729 $ C4 BrooksideCeramics.com Create an original piece of artwork to take home or share as a gift for a loved one.

315 SE Douglas St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.719.3911 $ D4 EmbersCandleBar.com Embers Candle Bar is a pouryour-own fragrance and candle experience. Define your fragrance.

Build-A-Bear Workshop Oak Park Mall: 11465 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.307.0328 B3 Zona Rosa: 8660 N. Dixon Ave. KC, MO 816.587.6515 B2 Indep Center: 2095 Independence Ctr. Dr. Indep, MO 816.795.5266 D3 www.BuildABear.com Make your own stuffed animal at Build-A-Bear!

Ceramic Cafe Ceramic Cafe

LEGEND:

AR Workshop

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

1711 SE Oldham Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 913.638.7929 $$

KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence

111 NE 91st St., KC, MO 816.837.0727 $$ C2 www.ARWorkshop.com Boutique DIY workshop offers hands-on classes to create charming and custom decor, wood signs, canvas pillows and more.

Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 61. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.

GO CREATE

Paint, Sew and Make A Touch of Creativity Art Studio 13248 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.609.5057 $$ B4 Facebook.com/atouchofun/ Painting and art classes for all ages. 30 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Board & Brush Creative Studio 13970 Santa Fe Trail Dr. Lenexa, KS 913.298.9570 $$ A4 BoardAndBrush.com/Lenexa DIY workshop for creating unique and personalized wood decor projects from scratch.

500 Armour Rd., North KC, MO 816.919.1502 $ D2 ExpressiveArts.Studio Exploration in art and music offering lessons, classes, parties and more!

The Fabric Chic 170 English Landing Dr., Ste. 111 Parkville, MO 816.982.9191 $$ B2 TheFabricChic.com An eclectic mix of fabrics and threads as well as classes.

Grapes & Paints

9510 Nall, OP, KS 913.383.0222 $ B5 www.CeramicCafeKC.com Ceramic Cafe is a paint-yourown pottery and glass fusing studio welcoming all ages.

Creative Culture KC 207 Westport Rd., KC, MO 816.569.3445 $$

Expressive

5661 W. 135th St., Ste. 2220 OP, KS 913.400.3078 $$ B5 CreativeCultureKC.com A hands-on creative experience featuring workshops from local artisans, drop-in projects, private parties and gifts.

Driftwood Ceramics 1827 Buchanan St., North KC, MO 816.841.2925 $ D2 Driftwoodceramics.com Offers a wide variety of classes and provides an open studio for artists.

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

Hammer and Stain 7968 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.735.4542 $$ B5 HammerandStainKC.com Instructor-guided DIY workshops help you turn a blank project into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Happy Trees Painting Co. 1219 Union Ave., KC, MO 816.616.9905 $$ HappyTreesPainting.com Parties, paints and drinks.

Harper’s Fabrics & Quilt Co. 7918 Santa Fe Dr., OP, KS 913.648.2739 $$ B5 www.HarpersFabricAndQuilt.com Quilting and sewing classes at local shop.

• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES • Hawaii Fluid Art Kansas City

Kreeayt

Orange Easel School of Art

Pieces of My Art

7270 NW 86th Pl., KC, MO 913.295.1809 $$ B2 HawaiiFluidArt.com Art classes to create a beautiful piece of fluid art!

710 W. Main St., Suite E Blue Springs, MO 816.888.0052 $$ D3 Kreeayt.com Art studio offering classes for all ages.

249 W. Mill, #107, Liberty, MO 816.407.9266 $$ C2

16224 NE 185th St., Holt, MO 816.716.4448 $$ D1 PiecesOfMyArtKC.com Step-by-step painting classes are offered.

Hook Gallery 1409B Westport Rd., KC, MO 816.531.4665 $$ C3 www.HookGallery.com A one-of-a-kind masterpiece made by you.

Kaleidoscope 2500 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.8301 Free C3 www.HallmarkKaleidoscope.com Children create their own unique works of art.

Lost Arts Courses 4 E. Franklin St., Liberty, MO 816.368.1252 $$ D1 LostArtsCourses.com Lost Arts provides live courses in an array of art forms.

The Makery KC 1331 Union Ave., KC, MO 913.742.3092 $$ C3 TheMakeryKC.com DIY craft classes are offered.

KC Clay Guild

MOD Gallery

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

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

7617 NW Prairie View Rd. KC, MO 816.216.7126 $$ B2 OrangeEaselArt.com Children’s art studio dedicated to teaching art in a way that is engaging, relevant and ageappropriate.

Paint and Party 1600 Genessee St., Suite 160 KC, MO 816.719.7889 $$ C3 PaintAndPartyKC.com Painting workshops offered for all ages.

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.

Pinot’s Palette 4817 W. 117th St., Leawood, KS 913.451.7466 $$ B5 11945 S. Strang Line Rd. Olathe, KS 913.732.3768 $$

4165 N. Mulberry Dr., KC, MO 816.492.3772 $$ C2 483 NE Coronado Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.598.0598 $$

www.PinotsPalette.com An upscale “paint and sip” studio.

The Potter’s Cottage 6210 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO 816.945.7798 $ B2 PottersCottageKC.com Art studio where individuals of all ages can participate in classes and special events.

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 31

• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES •

KCParent.com

25 ways to make the most of your stay in Kansas City with a little help from KCParent.com

Potter’s Haven Art Studio

Wine & Design

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

6058 NW 63rd Ter. KC, MO 816.944.0644 $$ C2 816.875.9707 $$ D4 www.WineAndDesign.com Painting parties and classes.

Scraps KC 3269 Roanoke Rd., KC, MO 816.522.4305 $ C3 ScrapsKC.org Shop the store of unusual items ready for reuse or sign up for a class.

Stained Glass Station

Jazzoo at the KC Zoo

KC Going Places is a product of Family Media Group’s family of magazines and it resides on KCParent.com. We have limited page count in the magazine but unlimited space online—so you’ll find even more great ideas to enhance your time in Kansas City when you visit KCParent.com. Look for these great pieces:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

Festival Guide Calendar of Events Virtual Going Places Guide Coupons for local attractions FREE Fun Holiday Guides 100 Things to Do with Kids in KC Reunion Ideas 50 Ideas Under $5 Water Fun Farmers Markets Top picks for fun every month Animal Outings Local attractions and show reviews Kids Eat Free Guide Day Trips from KC Midwestern Waterfalls U-Pick Farms Favorite Fishing Spots Thrill Seekers: Adventures in Kansas City Camping Missouri and Kansas KC Streetcar Scavenger Hunt Great Giveaways Be sure to subscribe to the FREE eNewsletter on KCParent.com for great ideas weekly. 25. And follow Kansas City Parent Magazine on Facebook for up-to-date info!

32 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

1900 S. Broadway Oak Grove, MO 816.525.8088 $$ D4 Facebook.com/ CreativeArtStainedGlassStation/ Stained glass and glass fusing classes.

Zoelee’s Fabrics & Sewing School 1329 NE Deer Valley Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.524.7217 $$ D4 www.Zoelees.com Classes make sewing fun for any age.

GO EXPERIENCE FOOD Learn to Cook and Watch As Food Is Made

Chip’s Chocolate Factory

9555 Nall Ave., OP, KS 816.531.4466 $$ B5 TheStudioKC.COM Knitting and needlepoint classes and workshops for every skill level.

Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., Ste. 239 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 30 years ago.

Sunfire Ceramics

Culinary Center of Kansas City

1002 New Hampshire St. Lawrence, KS 785.749.2828 $ A3 www.SunfireCeramics.com A locally owned pottery painting and glass fusing shop.

7920 Santa Fe Dr., OP, KS 913.341.4455 $$ B5 www.KCCulinary.com More than 600 cooking classes offered all year long.

The Studio

Dream Dinners

Tipsy Red Fox 2300 Indep. Ave., KC, MO 954.982.5542 $$ TheTipsyRedFox.com A BYOB painting studio.

6517 W. 119th St., OP, KS 913.491.6733 $$ B5 DreamDinners.com Dream Dinners brings easy, prepped dinners to families.

Unwind Fiber Arts

Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch

207 SE 3rd St, Lee’s Summit, MO 816.927.5676 $ D4 UnwindFiberArts.com A yarn boutique featuring handdyed and luxury yarn and fiber arts classes.

650 N. Jefferson St. Kearney, MO 816.628.0028 $ D1 FunFarmPumpkinPatch.com Experience seasonal strawberry picking, pumpkin patch and farm activities for the whole family.

Wee Create 8839 Roe Ave. Prairie Village, KS 913.721.7477 $$ B3 WeeCreateKC.com An art space created with the smallest artists in mind.

Dunn’s Cider Mill 17003 Holmes Rd. Belton, MO 816.331.7214 $ MillSite.Homestead.com Seasonal cider mill.

• CREATIVE PLACES • CREATIVE PLACES • GO TO AN ART MUSEUM

Green Dirt Farm 1099 Welt St. Weston, MO 816.386.2156 Free www.GreenDirtFarm.com Tour the farm.

Museums Celebrate the Arts A1

Louisburg Cider Mill 14730 KS 68 Hwy. Louisburg, KS 913.837.5202 $ B5 www.LouisburgCiderMill.com Watch apples being pressed into cider in the 120-year-old barn.

The Roasterie Inc. 1204 W. 27th St., KC, MO 816.931.4000 $ www.TheRoasterie.com Tour the coffee company.

1616 E. 18th St., KC, MO 816.474.8463 $ C3 www.AmericanJazzMuseum.org 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

Shatto Dairy Farm 9406 N. Hwy. 33 Osborn, MO 816.930.3862 $ www.ShattoMilk.com Tour the dairy farm.

American Jazz Museum

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

Taste Buds Kitchen

Graffiti Attic

5336 W. 151st St. Leawood, KS 913.257.5667 $$ B5 tastebudskitchen.com/leawood Top culinary entertainment experience for kids, families and adults.

30 W. Pershing Road, Suite 720 KC,MO 816.281.8508 FREE C3 GraffitiAttic.com Union Station’s seventh floor is now Graffiti Attic, the largest “Free Wall” in Kansas City!

Thyme for Everything

Hallmark Visitors Center

229 SE Main St., Ste. B Lee’s Summit, MO 816.554.3755 $$ D4 www.AThymeForEverything.com Cooking classes taught by local chefs.

2450 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.3613 Free C3 www.HallmarkVisitorsCenter.com Discover the story of Hallmark through interactive displays and fascinating exhibits.

Young Chef’s Academy

KC Strings

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

5842 Merriam Dr. Merriam, KS 913.677.0400 $ www.KCStrings.com Group tours of the stringed instrument shop.

Weston Orchard and Vineyard 18545 Co. Rd. H Weston, MO 402.209.4117 $ A1 OrchardWeston.com Enjoy a u-pick farm with apples, cherries and pumpkins.

Leila’s Hair Museum

Stocksdale Art Gallery

1333 S. Noland Rd., Indep, MO 816.833.2955 $$ D3 www.LeilasHairMuseum.net Wreaths and pieces of jewelry made of human hair, dating to before 1900.

252 William Jewell College Dr. Liberty, MO 816.415.7588 Free D1 Facebook.com/StocksdaleGallery/ Regional and national artists are featured at William Jewell’s campus art gallery.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art 4525 Oak St., KC, MO 816.751.1278 Free C3 www.Nelson-Atkins.org The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is Kansas City’s favorite free attraction.

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.

The Rabbit hOle 919 E. 14th Ave., North KC, MO 816.492.7915 B3 www.RabbitHoleKC.org The museum is in development, with special events throughout the year as they prepare to open.

21c Museum and Hotel 219 W. 9th St., KC, MO 816.443.4200 Free/$$ C3 www.21cmuseumhotels.com/ kansascity Visit this free contemporary art gallery housed in a hotel. The museum is free; reservations at the hotel are not.

UMKC Gallery of Art 203 Fine Arts Building 5015 Holmes St., KC, MO 816.235.1502 Free C3 info.umkc.edu/gallery The gallery features temporary exhibits on 20th century American and European art.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 4420 Warwick Blvd., KC, MO 816.753.5784 Free C3 www.KemperArt.org This art gallery features free modern art exhibits.

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 33

• FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES •

FUN PLACES 15225 W. 134th St., Olathe, KS 913.390.0815 $ A5 www.ChuckECheese.com Pizza, arcade games and indoor amusement rides.

Cool Crest 10735 E. US Hwy. 40, Indep, MO 816.358.0088 $ D3 www.CoolCrest.com Miniature golf, video games, go-karts and more!

Dave & Buster’s The Legends at Village West: 1843 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.981.6815 $ A3 6811 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.249.3900 $ B5 www.DaveAndBusters.com Arcade games, shuffleboard and billiards.

Dave & Buster’s

LEGEND:

Aaron’s Family Fun Center

Broadway Arcade

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

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

1000 Broadway Blvd. KC, MO 816.600.0707 $$ C3 BroadwayArcadeKC.com A classic arcade with old-school classics, modern favorites, visual sports, pinball, ping pong, darts, pool and refreshments.

KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 61. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.

GO PLAY

Amusement Parks, Arcades and Entertainment Centers 4D Gaming Lounge 6249 Blue Ridge Blvd. Raytown, MO 816.503.6000 C3 4DGamingLounge.net Indoor arcade, video games and karaoke fun center.

34 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

America’s Incredible Pizza Co. 13110 W. 62nd Ter. Shawnee, KS 913.278.0351 $$ B3 IncrediblePizza.com Indoor fun includes glow-in-thedark go-karts, laser tag, ropes course and more than 80 arcade games.

Arcade Alley 316 SE Douglas St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.272.4246 $$ D4 ArcadeAlley.com A fun ‘80s-’90s-style arcade bar.

Double Tap KC 310 Oak St., KC, MO 816.800.4001 $ C3 DoubleTapKC.com A virtual reality arcade and pub.

Draftcade 7260 NW 87th St., KC, MO 816.759.3474 $$ B2 Draftcade.com Arcade restaurant and bar for adults.

Drop Zone Paintball

Cardboard Corner Cafe 9240 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.283.7081 $ B4 Facebook.com/cardboardcorner A place for great food and great games.

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

FlipSwitch VR

Chuck E. Cheese 9196 Skyview Ave. KC, MO 816.505.1645

18701 E. 39th St. Indep, MO 816.795.7557

10510 Metcalf Ln., OP, KS 913.648.8848 $

2021 Washington St., Suite C KC, MO 816.492.7738 $$ B2 FlipSwitchVR.com With state-of-the-art wireless technology and motion tracking, we take you inside the game where your body is the controller and your mind believes it’s real.

• FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • FUN PLACES • Game Cafe

Howl-in-One Mini Golf

Parkville Mini Golf

107 W. Lexington Ave. Indep., MO 816.252.7529 $ D3 PlayGameCafe.com Board games, card games, tabletop games, RPG and event halls.

Great Wolf Lodge: 10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 800.608.9653 $ www.GreatWolfLodge.com Outdoor miniature golf.

7 W. 1st St., Parkville, MO 816.505.9555 $ B2 Facebook.com/ParkvilleMiniGolf/ Outdoor miniature golf course is set on the Missouri River bluffs.

Jaegers Paintball Park

Pawn & Pint

Game Show Battle Rooms

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.

613 Walnut St., KC, MO 816.701.9227 $ C3 PawnsAndPints.com A board game pub with a vast collection of games for every interest.

10520 Metcalf, OP, KS 913.350.1819 $$ B4 gameshowbattlerooms.com/ kansascity Face off against your friends, family and coworkers in our custom game show arenas.

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.

Main Event 11950 S. Kansas City Rd. Olathe, KS 913.768.4444 $-$$

8081 NW Roanridge Rd., KC, MO 816.281.2020 $-$$ B2 4600 S. Cochise Ct., Indep, MO 816.350.1000 $-$$ D3 www.MainEvent.com Bowling, billiards, laser tag, ropes obstacle course, video games and more.

Power Play 509 NW Barry Rd., KC, MO 816.268.4386 $ C1 www.PowerPlayKC.com Rides, laser tag, whirly ball, arcade games, bowling, go-karts and more.

Pulp Fiction Comics & Games 1100 SE Blue Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.554.7333 PFComics.com

Comics and gaming store hosting RPG events.

Sinker’s Lounge 53 W. 13th St., KC, MO $$ C3 SinkersLounge.com Kansas City’s leisurely indoor mini golf, paired with craft drinks and an elevated menu in an atmosphere worth sharing.

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

Up-Down KC 101 Southwest Blvd., KC, MO 816.982.9455 $$ C3 www.UpDownKC.com Arcade and bar with a retro vibe for adults.

LIVE LIFE ADVENTUROUSLY

* ZIPLINE & ADVENTURE PARK

Book at Goape.com USE CODE GOINGKC10 SWOPE PARK

7331 Oakwood Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132

Learn more at kctrips.org

*Code expires 12/31/22. Excludes Saturdays. Valid at Swope Park only. Must be redeemed at time of purchase. See our website for participation details.

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 35

• FUN PL ACES • FUN PL ACES • FUN PL ACES • • FEATURED LISTING • Worlds of Fun

FIVE SECRET

PICNIC SPOTS Parkville Nature Sanctuary PACK A PICNIC OR STOP BY A NEARBY SANDWICH SHOP THEN DINE OUTSIDE AT ONE OF THESE UNIQUE PLACES IN KANSAS CITY: View the city’s skyline at Rooftop Park in the Kansas City Power & Light District, located on the rooftop of Cosentino’s Market downtown. The park is open throughout the summer and offers green space in the center of the city where you can relax and enjoy amazing views of the downtown skyline. Bring a blanket and eat on the lawn atop a downtown roof! Listen to a waterfall while you picnic at Parkville Nature Sanctuary, pictured above (MO Highway 9 & 12th Street, Parkville, MO). Enjoy scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, a stream, wildlife and serenity just 15 minutes from the city! Bring a backpack picnic and enjoy it in nature. Or hike, then picnic, at nearby English Landing Park. Explore a cave at Cave Springs Park (8701 Gregory, Kansas City, MO). Enjoy a nature center with local exhibits, hiking trails, a pond, water garden, waterfall, historic ruins including chimneys from pioneer homes and, of course, the cave! Picnic at the pavilion on the grounds. Picnic with bison looking over your shoulder at the Native Hooved Animal Enclosure in Fleming Park in Blue Springs, MO. You can look bison, white-tailed deer and elk in the eye as they approach the fences. Fleming Park is also home to Missouri Town 1855, Lake Jacomo and the Kauffman Education Center. Pretend you live in the Wild West then picnic at Antioch Park (6501 Antioch Rd., Merriam, KS). At the cherished park you can explore a pond, rose garden and acres of land for play, as well as the beloved Wild West Village, where children pretend to live in frontier-era Kansas.

36 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

See ad on pg. 66 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 www.WorldsOfFun.com Kansas City’s amusement park with 235 acres of family rides and thrill rides, including seven world-class rollercoasters. 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. Enjoy unlimited visits and free parking to Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun with a Gold Season Pass.

•

GO LEARN THROUGH PLAY

Children’s Museums and Indoor Playgrounds Children’s Peace Pavilion 1001 W. Walnut St., Indep, MO 816.521.3033 Free D3 www.ThePeacePavilion.org Children’s museum designed to teach concepts of peace.

Legoland Discovery Center 2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.4386 $$ C3 www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com Step inside Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City and you’ll feel as though you’ve just jumped into the world’s biggest box of Lego bricks!

Lenexa Community Center “Gym for Me” Program

My Play Cafe 659 SW 2nd St., Lee’s Summit, MO 816.287.0621 $ D4 MyPlayCafe.com An indoor playground and coffee shop designed for parents and active toddlers.

Parkside Coffeehouse 8839 Lackman Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.888.2722 Free B4 http://www.foundrychurchkc.com/ facility/coffeehouse Coffee shop for parents and indoor play for tots!

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.

Sylvester Powell Community Center Indoor Playground 6200 Martway, Mission, KS 913.722.8200 $ B3 www.MissionKS.org Families enjoy inflatables, tricycles, gym mats and more. Call for schedule.

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

Westport Roanoke Community Center Midtown Play Place

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

3601 Roanoke Rd., KC, MO 816.513.7660 $ C3 http://kcparks.org/facility/ westport-roanoke-community-center/ Enjoy the indoor playground, blocks, gym mats and toys. Call for schedule.

Matt Ross Community Center Explore Room

Wonderscope Children’s Museum

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

433 E. Red Bridge Rd., KC, MO 816.643.6700 $ B5 www.Wonderscope.org Hands-on children’s museum for little ones with a variety of interactive exhibits.

HIKING KANSAS CITY The sun is shining and it’s time to lace up your hiking boots or inflate the tires on your trail bike. Where do you head … Colorado? Arkansas? Actually, you’ll find many great places to hike right here in Greater KC. What? Indeed, there are hundreds of miles of trails here. You just have to know where to find them. A gratuitous self-promoter would tell you to view them all at www.KansasCityHiker.com. But I would never do that. Based on our miles logged, we want to help you cut down time spent at dead ends and overgrown weed patches. Here we offer our takes on the best of Kansas City’s trails.

BEST WALKING TRAILS Watkins Mill is both a state park and a National Historic Landmark in Clay County, MO. The park includes a well-preserved 1870s textile mill and farm that are great for hands-on kids (and adults). Farm animals too. In addition, a 3.8-mile forested trail loops a lake, including a small waterfall. Watkins Mill is accommodating to parents pushing strollers and small children riding bikes. Bring lunch or pick it up nearby in Kearney or Excelsior Springs. ADDRESS: Watkins Mill State Park, 26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO 64062 MORE DETAILS: https://bit.ly/36wAXAD RUNNERS UP: • English Landing Park, Parkville, MO, https://bit.ly/3JHwRnn • Mill Creek Streamway, Nelson Island Loop, Shawnee, KS, https://bit.ly/3p7lspk • Black Hoof Park, Lenexa, KS, https://bit.ly/3LPPYO7

BIKING

For biking families, it’s nice to find a trail that’s not too crowded. There’s nothing like dodging Spandex-clad Tour De France wannabees screaming past children and grandparents at reckless speeds. Line Creek Trail, in Platte County, is popular but not normally a speedway. This paved 8-mile path passes through Platte County suburbs, woods and crystalline Line Creek. Enter at the Line Creek Community Center trailhead, then head left on the trail to experience a wide shelf-like waterfall. ADDRESS: Line Creek Community Center, 5940 NW Waukomis Dr., Kansas City, MO 64151 MORE DETAILS: https://bit.ly/3JIgQh5 RUNNER UP: Heritage Park and Coffee Creek Streamway Trails, Olathe, KS, https://bit.ly/3JKr5kW

DAY TRIP

Want to break away from urban KC? How about a visit to the Flint Hills? Konza Prairie is a 6,800-acre remnant of pristine Kansas prairie. But prairie doesn’t mean flat. The preserve is vast, rolling and rocky. Konza is a combination of wind-blasted ridges, rocky valleys and forested groves and bottomland. Far from being a desert, the reserve is intersected by clear streams, ancient boulders and spectacular wildflowers. Wildlife is also abundant, including numerous bird species, lizards, deer, bobcats, coyotes and prairie chickens, among others. Bonus: The nearby Pillsbury Crossing Wildlife Area is home to a waterfall 5 feet high and 40 feet wide. Also, nearby Manhattan, KS, is a unique college town with distinctive shopping and dining in the Aggieville District. MORE DETAILS: https://bit.ly/3v4nxGj RUNNER UP: Pinnacles Park, north of Columbia, MO, https://bit.ly/3h4AFD5 You might not believe, but Kansas City has much more of the outdoors to explore. These are just a few highlights. Keep those feet—and strollers—moving! Carpe diem. Konza Prairie Preserve Trail – Flint Hills of Kansas

Roy Harryman is the publisher of Kansas City Hiker and the principal of Roy Harryman Marketing Communications. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 37

• ADVENTUROUS PLACES • ADVENTURO

ADVENTUROUS PLACES • FEATURED LISTING • Go Ape

See ad on pg. 35 7331 Oakwood Dr., KC, MO 800.971.8271 $$ C4 www.GoApe.com Go Ape has three outdoor activities to choose from including the Treetop Adventure, Treetop Journey and Axe Throwing. The Treetop Adventure course features five sections of treetop obstacles, each leading you higher into the forest canopy. The Treetop Journey course is perfect for kids, families and beginners, as an introduction to aerial adventure. With outdoor Axe Throwing you can channel your inner lumberjack.

•

IBEX Climbing Gym 801 NW South Outer Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.9988 $ www.ClimbIBEX.com Challenge yourself on the 32-foot walls, lead cave and bouldering area.

iFLY Kansas City Go Ape LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 61. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.

GO UP

Zip Lines, Rock Walls, Obstacle Courses and Sky Diving Emerald City Gymnastics 9063 Bond, OP, KS 913.438.4444 $ www.emeraldcitygym.com/ monster-mountain-wall Monster Mountain is 5,000 square feet of vertical and horizontal indoor climbing.

Giggles-N-Jiggles 3713 US 40 Hwy., Blue Springs, MO 816.228.8179 $ D3 GigglesNJiggles.com An indoor play facility with a variety of fun inflatables.

38 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

10975 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.305.4359 $$ B5 www.IFlyWorld.com Indoor skydiving is the simulation of true freefall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel.

KC Timber Challenge 12829 Loring Rd. Bonner Springs, KS 913.538.1229 $$ A3 www.KCTimberChallenge.com A one-of-a-kind natural 5K obstacle course.

Motus Ninjas 725 NW Commerce Dr., Ste. M Lee’s Summit, MO 816.600.0195 $ D4 7200 W. 106th St., OP, KS 913.283.7341 $ B4 MotusNinjaWarrior.com Motus is the largest Ninja Warrior facility in the KC metro area, housing more than 240 feet of obstacle course.

North Kansas City YMCA Climbing Wall 1999 Iron St., North KC, MO 816.300.0531 $ C2 kansascityymca.org/locations/ north-kansas-city Try the 25-foot indoor climbing wall.

RoKC 1501 Howell St., North KC, MO 816.843.7652 $ D2 3150 Mercer St., Ste. 641A KC, MO 816.621.2020 $

654 N. Central St., Olathe, KS 913.318.3600 $ A5 www.ClimbKC.com Indoor rock wall climbing and bouldering facilities.

TimberRidge Adventure Center 12300 S. Homestead Ln. Olathe, KS 913.856.8849 $$ A5 www.JCPRD.com Outdoor recreation activities, including a ropes course, zip line and climbing tower.

Zip KC 12829 Loring Rd. Bonner Springs, KS 913.214.9478 $$ A3 www.ZipKC.com A zip line adventure under trees and through trees to an awaiting 45-foot tower.

GO JUMP

Trampoline Parks and Bounce Houses Above All Trampoline Park 1927 Industrial Dr., Ste. 200 Liberty, MO 816.439.5300 $$ D1 AboveAllPark.com Take flight on the massive indoor court of connected trampolines for an unforgettable adventure.

OUS PL ACES • ADVENTUROUS PLACES • Bump City

Sky Zone

1001 NW Jefferson Blue Springs, MO 816.228.7775 $$ D3 www.bump-city.com Ninja Warrior obstacles, trampolines and indoor fun.

2801 NE McBaine Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.457.0068 $

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.

Get Air 18900 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.897.3456 $$ D3 GetAirIndependence.com Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, trampoline dodgeball, a ninja obstacle course and more.

Pump It Up 12070 Metcalf, OP, KS 913.236.7867 $ B3 www.PumpItUpParty.com Have fun in gigantic, inflatablefilled arenas for open play.

6495 Quivira Rd. Shawnee, KS 913.213.5900 $ A4 www.skyzone.com/kansascity New state-of-the-art Ninja Warrior course, trampoline wipeout, free climb rock wall and more.

SuperKidz Club 6753 Johnson Dr. Mission, KS 913.413.0001 $ B3 SuperKidzClub.net Indoor play facility with jumping, climbing, crawling and sliding areas.

Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park: 14401 Metcalf OP, KS 913.298.0626

Lenexa: 8540 Maurer Rd., Lenexa, KS 913.359.5800 $$ B4 www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com Urban Air is a full-service family entertainment trampoline adventure park.

GO FOR A RIDE

Wheels, Water and Sky 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.

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.

Blue Springs Lake Marina 1700 NE Bowlin Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.795.1112 $$ D4 www.MakeYourDayHere.com Pontoon boat rental.

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.

Hot Expectations Balloon Company 11915 W. 143rd Ter. Olathe, KS 913.897.1030 $$ www.KCBalloonRides.com Hot air balloon tours of Kansas City.

An Educational Experience for All Ages! Cedar Cove is a non-profit sanctuary and educational center committed to the care and preservation of endangered predator species while educating the public on the importance of preserving their natural ecosystems and the impending dangers of their extinction.

Schedule a visit:

Please visit our website for current weekend hours and to schedule a visit using our online booking. • Public Weekend tours begin on the half-hour. • Tour sizes limited for best safety practices.

Summer Hours: May-Oct Winter Hours: Nov-Apr

Public Feedings 1 Hour Before Closing! (Weekend tours only)

WEEKDAY TOURS AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT

Location:

3783 K-68 Hwy, Louisburg, KS 66053

(see website for map & directions)

www.saveoursiberians.org

CONSERVATION THROUGH EDUCATION KCGOINGPLACES.COM 39

• ADVENTUROUS PLACES • ADVENTURO

10 FREE & CHEAP

WAYS TO EXPLORE

DOWNTOWN KC

KC Northern Railroad

Midland Railway

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.

1515 W. High St., Baldwin City, KS 785.594.1335 $ A5 www.midlandrailway.org Take a 20-mile round trip from Baldwin City via Norwood, KS, to Ottawa Junction, KS.

KC Fun 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 Kayak & Canoe Locations vary. 816.226.6379 $$ C3 KCRiverRun.com KCKC provides the opportunity to paddle local waters, including the Missouri River, in a kayak or canoe.

1 2 3 4

Kill Creek Park Marina Walk the Country Club Plaza and admire the art and fountains of the city’s original landmark. Share a Skyscraper, a giant ice cream soda meant for sharing, at Winstead’s, Kansas City’s original burger joint. Stroll through the free Kauffman Memorial Gardens where something is always in bloom.

Explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Admission is free; there is a fee for parking. The world-class museum is open until 9:00 pm on Thursdays and Fridays with many special events throughout the year.

5 6

Discover a masterpiece and take a photo with the giant spider at the free Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.

Enjoy wildflowers and play among the trees at the Anita Gorman Discovery Center, a free nature center with an imaginative outdoor playground and hands-on exhibits.

7 8

Get free (shredded) money at the Money Museum.

Ride the KC Streetcar and visit the FREE KC Rail Experience at Union Station, then ride to the Power & Light District where you’ll find a variety of dining and entertainment options, or go on to River Market with shops and restaurants.

9 10

Visit the National Archives of Kansas City and explore their free exhibits.

Tour the FREE Hallmark Visitors Center. Then, enjoy a bit of shopping and dining at Crown Center. The district is also home to live theater and attractions.

Discover more ideas with the geo-based search in our Going Places Guide on KCParent.com. 40 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

11670 Homestead Ln., Olathe, KS 913.558.6896 $$ A5 www.JCPRD.com Kayak, canoe, pedal boat rental.

Lake Jacomo Marina 7401 W. Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO 816.795.8888 $$ D4 www.MakeYourDayHere.com Pontoon boat, bass boat, canoe, pedal boat and kayak rental.

Lake Olathe 13510 S. Lakeshore Dr., Olathe, KS 913.971.8973 $ A5 OlatheKS.org Lake Olathe Park features a 170-acre lake surrounded by a 258-acre community park. The lake offers a swim beach (summer) and marina.

Old World Balloonery 12600 W. 142nd St., OP, KS 913.338.2628 $$$ B5 www.OldWorldBalloonery.com Hot air balloon tours of the city.

Richard Petty Driving Experience 400 Speedway Blvd., KC, KS 1.800.237.3889 $$ A3 www.DrivePetty.com High-speed racing venue where visitors can drive or ride along in an authentic NASCAR vehicle.

Shawnee Mission Park Marina 7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS 913.888.1990 $$ D4 www.JCPRD.com Fishing boat, canoe, pedal boat rental.

Wyandotte County Lake Marina 9100 Leavenworth Rd., KC, KS 913.573.8327 $$ A3 www.wycokck.org/parks Fishing boat rental.

GO BE DARING

Escape Rooms, Mystery Theater and Thrills The Basement 1600 W. 8th St., KC, MO 866.993.7227 $$ B3 BasementEscapeRoom.com KC’s only horror escape room.

Legacy Park

Blade & Timber

1201-1501 NE Legacy Park Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.969.1500 FREE D4 CityOfLS.net The park features a 22-acre lake where visitors may rent canoes, kayaks and bikes for free.

1303 Baltimore Ave., KC, MO 816.343.8489 $$ C3

Longview Lake Marina

Breakout KC

9898 Longview Rd., KC, MO 816.966.0131 $$ C5 www.MakeYourDayHere.com Pontoon boat rental.

114 W. 3rd St., Ste. 102 KC, MO 816.945.2633 $$

5203 W. 117th St., Leawood, KS 913.205.5421 $$ B5 BladeAndTimber.com Axe throwing entertainment venue.

OUS PL ACES • ADVENTUROUS PLACES • 11535 Ash St., Leawood, KS 913.298.1081 $$ B5 www.BreakoutKC.com You have 60 minutes to break out from a real life escape room, cracking codes.

Bury the Hatchet 7105 W. 105th St., OP, KS 913.218.0945 $$ B5 BuryTheHatchet.com Throw a hatchet at the target and try to hit the bull’s-eye.

The Dinner Detective 1301 Wyandotte St. KC, MO 866.496.0535 $$ C3 TheDinnerDetective.com/Kansas-City Live mystery comedy theater.

Escape Room 1st Floor Union Station 30 W. Pershing, KC, MO 816.321.2837 $$ C3 www.EscapeRoomKC.com A live escape game where you have 60 minutes to solve a mystery.

Escape This Place 9507 E. 63rd St., Ste. 103 Raytown, MO 816.359.2372 $$ escapethis.place A story-based escape room experience.

Call to schedule a tour. The Gangster Tour puts you hot on the trail of this city’s most notorious Goodfellas.

Mastermind Escape Games

The Exit Room 304 SW Market St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.434.5808 $$ D4 www.TheExitRoomKC.com Your team of players will have exactly one hour to complete a mission or task giving you the key to escape.

Get Nerfed Battle Arena 701 Haines, Ste. 500, Liberty, MO 816.326.8458 $ D1 GetNerfed.fun Family-friendly entertainment options for kids and adults.

Kansas City Gangster Tour Tours Board at Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.471.1234 $$ C3 KansasCityTransportationGroup.com

7810 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.827.0999 $$ B5 MastermindEscapeGames.com An interactive escape room game.

Rage! KC 1524 Charlotte St., KC, MO 816.472.6699 $$ C3 Rage-KC.com Smash, break and generally destroy everyday objects including bottles, plates, computers, radios and more in a safe environment.

Smash House KC 1800 Genessee St., KC, MO 816.652.4553 $$ B3 SmashHouseKC.com People vent their rage by destroying everyday objects within a room.

Survive KC 30 W. Pershing Rd., Ste. 720 KC, MO 816.281.8508 $ C3 SurviveKC.com Realistic first-person laser tag experience on a Hollywood movie-style set.

Tick Tock Escape Games 6398 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.396.9144 $$ B5 www.TickTockEscapeGames.com An hour of fun where anyone can be the one who “gets it” and solves the next clue to save the day.

Wood Chux 888 S. State Route 291 Liberty, MO 816.415.2489 $$

455 S. Thompson Ave. Excelsior Springs, MO 816.415.2489 $$

Northland’s only axe throwing gym.

COMING THIS FALL

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 41

• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES •

HISTORIC PLACES Airline History Museum

Battle of Westport Museum

201 NW Lou Holland Dr. KC, MO 816.421.3401 $ C3 www.AirlineHistory.org A collection of photographs and artifacts.

4000 Baltimore, KC, MO 816.561.1821 Free C3 www.BattleOfWestport.org The museum depicts the history of the famous Civil War battle in western Missouri.

Alexander Majors Home

Belton Historical Society & Museum

8201 State Line Rd., KC, MO 816.444.1858 $ C4 www.WornallMajors.org Alexander Majors was one of the founders of the Pony Express. The home was built in 1856.

Amelia Earhart Birthplace 223 N. Terrace St. Atchison, KS 913.367.4217 $ A1 www.AmeliaEarhartMuseum.org Tour the birthplace and childhood home of Kansas’ famous female aviator.

Arabia Steamboat Museum

Midwest Genealogy Center

LEGEND: FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 61. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.

42 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

GO BACK IN TIME

History Museums and Tours 1827 Log Courthouse 107 W. Kansas Ave., Indep, MO 816.325.7111 Free D3 www.VisitIndependence.com Learn about the slave-land dispute and westward expansion issues.

1859 Marshal’s Home and Jail Museum 217 N. Main St., Indep, MO 816.252.1892 $ D3 jchs.org/1859-jail One-room schoolhouse, marshal’s home, 1859 jail and museum.

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

Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum 4109 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. Gladstone, MO 816.423.4107 $ C2 www.AtkinsJohnsonFarm.com The museum depicts farm life in the mid-1800s.

Battle of Westport Monument 5200 Wornall, KC, MO 913.345.2000 Free C3 www.BattleOfWestport.org The center of the main battlefield is located at present-day Loose Park.

512 Main St., Belton, MO 816.322.3977 $ C5 www.BeltonHistoricalSociety.org View artifacts preserving the history of Belton.

Ben Ferrel Platte County Museum 220 Ferrel St., Platte City, MO 816.431.5121 $ A1 pchs1882.org 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 Road Fort Leavenworth, KS 913.684.3600 Free A1 www.VisitLeavenworthKS.com The monument memorializes the historic barrier that separated West and East Berlin during the Cold War.

Bingham-Waggoner Estate 313 W. Pacific Ave., Indep, MO 816.461.3491 $ D3 www.bwestate.net The 1855 museum depicts the history of George Caleb Bingham.

Black Archives of Mid-America 1722 E. 17th Ter., KC, MO 816.221.1600 Free C3 www.BlackArchives.org Collections featuring the works of Black artists, writers, musicians and leaders.

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

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 Black pioneers.

Burnt District Museum 400 E. Mechanic, Ste. 203 Harrisonville, MO 816.380.4396 $ C5 www.CI.Harrisonville.MO.US Civil War museum with exhibits including a diorama of the Battle of Morristown, timelines, photo archives and more.

Charles Evans Whittaker Courthouse

C.W. Parker Carousel Museum

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.

320 S. Esplanade, Leavenworth, KS 913.682.1331 $ A1 www.FirstCityMuseums.org Tour the museum to learn the history of the carousel and enjoy a ride as well!

Clay County Courthouse

Dillingham-Lewis Home

1 Courthouse Square Liberty, MO 816.407.3900 Free D2 www.Circuit7.net Painted and ceramic murals tell Clay County’s story. Interpretive brochures available.

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.

Clay County Museum

Dole Institute of Politics

14 N. Main St. Liberty, MO 816.792.1849 Free D1 www.ClayCountyMuseum.org Painted and ceramic murals tell Clay County’s story. Interpretive brochures available.

2350 Petefish Dr., Lawrence, KS 785.864.4900 FREE A3 DoleInstitute.org Museum celebrates public service, civil discourse and the legacy of Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole through its programs, archive and museum.

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

Excelsior Springs Historical Museum 101 E. Broadway St. Excelsior Springs, MO 816.630.0101 Free D1 esmuseum.com 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.

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 43

• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • Historic Liberty Jail

Johnson County Museum

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, a Mormon leader.

8788 Metcalf OP, KS 913.826.2787 $ B4 www.jcprd.com/museum The museum shares local history through galleries and public programs.

Historic Pharis Farm

Kansas City Automotive Museum

20611 EE Hwy. Liberty, MO 816.736.8500 $ D2 www.ClayCountyMO.gov Learn about the Pharis farm of 1836.

Jackson County Historical Society Archives

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm

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

Fort Osage 107 Osage St., Sibley, MO 816.650.3278 $ D2 www.MakeYourDayHere.com Osage Indian history and early military history are depicted through exhibits and special events.

Frontier Army Museum 100 Reynolds Ave. Fort Leavenworth, KS 913.684.3191 Free A1 www.FFAM.us 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 816.761.0414 $ C4 www.Grandview.org The museum, housed in a caboose, preserves Grandview history.

44 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Jackson County Courthouse 112 W. Lexington Ave., Indep, MO 816.461.1897 Free D3 www.JCHS.org Tour the historic Truman Courthouse, which is home to the archives and research library.

Grinter Place State Historic Site

Jesse James Bank Museum

1420 S. 78th St., KC, KS 913.299.0373 Free A3 www.KSHS.org A step back to the days of frontier life along the Kansas and Missouri border.

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.

Harris-Kearney House

Jesse James Farm & Museum

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.

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.

• FEATURED LISTING •

John Wornall House Museum

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library

See ad on pg. 5 500 US Hwy. 24 Indep, MO 816.268.8200 $ D3 www.TrumanLibrary.org One of 15 presidential libraries. Visitors are able to experience engaging exhibits and programs and the library aspires to reach a broad and diverse audience in a continuous effort to keep President Truman’s life and legacy alive, emphasizing his ideals of citizenship, learning and service.

•

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

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

15095 W. 116th St. Olathe, KS 913.322.4227 $ A5 KansasCityAutoMuseum.com Museum celebrating the history of automobiles.

Kansas City Historic Garment District Museum 800 Broadway Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.0720 Free C3 KansasCityMuseum.org The museum tells the story of Kansas City’s garment factories from the 1920s through the 1980s.

Kansas City Irish Center 19 W. Linwood Blvd. KC, MO 816.474.3848 Free www.IrishCenterKC.org Discover Kansas City’s Irish history.

Kansas City Museum 3218 Gladstone Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.0720 $ C3 KansasCityMuseum.org The Kansas City Museum is a hub of learning, creativity and collaboration where individuals and communities innovate and inspire engagement and civic unity.

KC Rail Experience – All Aboard Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd. KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.UnionStation.org Let the power of play lead the way in this train-themed area geared for children ages 4 - 7.

• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • KCMO City Hall 414 E. 12th St., KC, MO 816.513.3600 Free C3 www.kcmo.gov Take a free tour to the top for a panoramic view of the city, or schedule a tour to learn about the inner workings of city government.

Kearney Historic Museum 101 S. Jefferson St. Kearney, MO 816.903.1856 $ D1 VisitClayMO.com/business/ kearney-historic-museum Home to several permanent and rotating displays including a full timeline of Kearney’s history.

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

Korean War Veterans Memorial Overland Park

Leavenworth National Cemetery

Lone Jack Battlefield Museum

11902 Lowell Ave, OP, KS 913.327.6643 Free B5 www.opkansas.org The KWVA Memorial features an engraved wall honoring the fallen and missing soldiers of the Korean War.

150 Muncie Rd., Leavenworth, KS 913.727.1376 Free A1 www.Cem.VA.Gov This historic cemetery is the burial site for many soldiers, beginning with the Civil War.

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.

Korean/Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Lee’s Summit History Museum

Wyandotte County Park: 91st Street & Leavenworth Road KC, KS 913.573.8327 Free A2 www.WyCoKCK.org America’s first dual war memorial is dedicated to veterans of both the Korean and Vietnam wars.

220 SW Main St. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.287.4477 Free D4 www.LeesSummitHistory.net Museum dedicated to preserving the community’s rich cultural heritage.

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

We’re excited to welcome back visitors to Mahaffie! Check out our website and follow us on Facebook for the most up-to-date information.

Farm Fresh History Since 1858!

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, Kansas • 913.971.5111 Activities vary by season Visit www.mahaffie.org

• FEATURED LISTING •

Legler Barn Museum 14907 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.492.0038 Free A4 www.LenexaHistoricalSociety.org The site displays changing exhibits on local history.

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm

See ad on pg. 45 1200 E. Kansas City Rd. Olathe, KS 913.971.5111 $ A5 www.mahaffie.org Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm offers a unique hands-on experience for visitors of all ages, focusing on 1860s farming, frontier life and stagecoach travel, while preserving the nationally significant Mahaffie story. Mahaffie is the last remaining stagecoach stop open to the public on the Santa Fe Trail. Visitors tour the historic home, blacksmith shop and farm.

•

There’s more to discover in Kansas City than great museums and barbecue! Visit and learn more about your family history.

• ACCESS 900,000+ FAMILY HISTORY RESOURCES • FREE ACCESS TO BOOKS AND RECORDS • FREE ONLINE GENEALOGY TOOLS • FREE IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL CLASSES • FREE WI-FI AND PUBLIC COMPUTERS • FREE PARKING • ORAL HISTORY RECORDING EQUIPMENT • PATRON LOUNGE WITH VENDING MACHINES • FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL STAFF 15 minutes east of Downtown Kansas City off I-70

3440 S. Lee's Summit Rd. Independence, MO 64055

Open daily!

midwestgenealogycenter.org

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 45

• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • • FEATURED LISTING • National WWI Museum and Memorial

See ad on pg. 43 2 Memorial Dr., KC, MO 816.888.8100 $ C3 www.TheWorldWar.org The National WWI Museum and Memorial is dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding the Great War and its enduring impact. Through original objects and documents, video, recreated trenches and interactive tables, the museum shares a comprehensive history of the First World War with visitors.

•

Oxford Schoolhouse

National WWI Museum and Memorial

• FEATURED LISTING •

National Agricultural Hall of Fame

See ad on pg. 45 3440 S. Lee’s Summit Rd. Indep, MO 816.252.7228 FREE D3 MyMCPL.org Research your genealogy at this facility where visitors may access online databases to search censuses, newspapers, vital records and more. Research librarians assist individuals in learning more about their family histories through the vast collections and resources at this research center.

630 N. 126th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.721.1075 $ A3 www.AgHallOfFame.com Learn about agriculture in the Heartland.

Midwest Genealogy Center

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Missouri Town 1855 8010 E. Park Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.229.8980 $ D4 www.MakeYourDayHere.com Missouri Town is a reconstructed 1850s farming community.

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

46 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Ironwoods Park: 14701 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS 913.663.9157 Free B5 www.leawood.org/historicoxford-schoolhouse Living history programs where children experience the oneroom school day of pioneers.

Pioneer Trails Adventures

National Frontier Trails Museum

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.

Raytown Historical Society and Museum

318 W. Pacific, Indep, MO 816.325.7575 $ D3 www.CI.Independence.MO.us/NFTM Features the history of the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails.

• FEATURED LISTING • The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

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

See ad on pg. 31 5235 Oak St., KC, MO 816.235.8000 $ C3 www.ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org Explore the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collections of antique toys. Journey through centuries of childhood, culture and industry in the toy galleries. Step Into the miniature galleries to discover architectural structures, room settings and decorative arts crafted by artists from around the world. Special exhibits and events throughout the year.

•

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 Booth St. & Park Dr., KC, KS 913.573.8327 Free B3 www.WyCoKcK.org Arch was built in 1923 to pay tribute to WWI veterans.

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

• FEATURED LISTING • Shawnee Town 1929

See ad on pg. 47 11501 W. 57th St. Shawnee, KS 913.248.2360 $ B3 www.ShawneeTown.org Step back into the 1920s and experience life in Shawnee, a truck-farming town located just 10 miles from downtown Kansas City! Visitors of all ages can explore our interactive historic Main Street’s local businesses and an original truck farm. This living history museum gives visitors a taste of life in the 1920s.

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Shoal Creek Living History Museum 7000 NE Barry Rd. KC, MO 816.792.2655 $ C1 ShoalCreekLivingHistory Museum.com 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.

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.

Trailside Center 9901 Holmes Rd. KC, MO 816.942.3581 FREE C4 TrailsideCenter.org Resource center with artifacts from New Santa Fe’s historical collection.

• HISTORIC PLACES • HISTORIC PLACES • Truman Courtroom and Office

TWA Museum

Jackson County Courthouse: 112 W. Lexington Indep, MO 816.881.3000 $ D3 jchs.org/truman-courthouse Tour the office and courtroom used by Mr. Truman in his early years of elected politics. Remodeled office opening soon.

10 Richards Rd., #110, KC, MO 816.234.1011 $ C3 TWAMuseum.com Exhibits preserving the legacy of Trans World Airlines’ leadership in the world of commercial aviation.

Truman Farm Home 12301 Blue Ridge Blvd. Grandview, MO 816.254.2720 $ C5 www.NPS.gov/HSTR Built in 1894, this was Harry Truman’s childhood residence from 1906 to 1917.

Truman Home 219 N. Delaware Indep, MO 816.254.2720 $ D3 www.NPS.gov/HSTR Tour the home of President and Mrs. Truman where they lived.

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

U.S. National Archives 400 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.268.8000 Free C3 archives.gov/kansas-city 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

head to

kcparent.com for the

kids eat

FREE

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 121 W. Pawnee Ln. Gardner, KS 913.856.0936 Free A5 www.GardnerKansas.gov The park features a veterans memorial, as well as park facilities: playground, trail, basketball court, etc.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial 4181 Broadway, KC, MO 816.513.7500 Free C3 KCParks.org The memorial includes a wall with the names of 451 area veterans killed or missing in action.

Watkins Woolen Mill 26600 Park Rd. N. Lawson, MO 816.580.3387 $ D1 MOStateParks.com Tour the home, visitors center, farm and brick mill, and see how workers turned fleece into fabric.

Weston Historical Museum 601 Main St. Weston, MO 816.386.2977 Free A1 www.WestonHistoricalMuseum.org 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.

Come Experience Shawnee Town 1929! • • • • •

Living History Programs Family Friendly Events Concerts Rentals Family Fun

(or cheap) guide the BEST resource for finding places all over kc where kids eat for FREE (or really cheap)!

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

www.shawneetown.org

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 47

• SCIENCE PLACES • SCIENCE PLACES •

SCIENCE PLACES The Museum at Prairiefire 5801 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.333.3500 $ B5 www.VisitTheMap.org The museum showcases world renowned exhibits.

Powell Observatory 26500 Melrose St. Louisburg, KS 913.438.3825 $ B5 www.ASKC.org Powell Observatory is home to the largest telescope in a fivestate area.

Science City at Union Station

Gottlieb Planetarium

30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.ScienceCity.com A dynamic, hands-on science center featuring nearly 200 individual interactive exhibits and daily programming.

UMKC’S Richard L. Sutton, Jr., M.D., Museum of Geosciences

LEGEND:

Gottlieb Planetarium

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

Union Station: 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $ C3 www.UnionStation.org Combining interactive astronomy education with spectacular public shows and night sky viewing opportunities.

Miller Nichols Library Room #329 800 E. 51st St., KC, MO FREE C3 cas.umkc.edu View a collection of rocks, minerals and fossils including the museum’s Crinoid collection.

KU Natural History Museum

GO SEE ANIMALS

KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 61. Note: Remember to call ahead for current hours and directions for each facility.

GO EXPLORE

Science Museums 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. 48 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

1345 Jayhawk Blvd. Lawrence, KS 785.864.4450 $ A3 Biodiversity.KU.edu Four floors of exhibits help you explore the life of the planet.

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 old-fashioned toys.

Zoos, Aquariums and Farms Carolyn’s Country Cousins Pumpkin Patch 17607 NE 52nd St. Liberty, MO 816.781.9196 $ C2 CarolynsCountryCousins.com The seasonal farm is open every autumn featuring approximately 60 acres planted in pumpkins, corn and soybeans, plus another 20 acres set aside for pumpkin entertainment and farm fun.

• FEATURED LISTING •

Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary and Educational Center See ad on pg. 39 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.

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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 Meadows Alpaca Ranch 1113 SW 500th Rd., Holden, MO 816.813.9359 $ D5 GreenMeadowsAlpacaRanch. business.site Experience an interactive farm tour on a working alpaca ranch.

Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins 17701 S. State Rte. D, Belton, MO 816.331.1067 $ C3 JohnsonFarms.net A family owned farm open two seasons of the year with u-pick seasonal produce and high quality plants. The fall pumpkin patch is a kid-friendly favorite.

KC Reptarium & Education Center 1010 N. Scott Ave., Belton, MO $$ C5 Facebook.com/KCReptarium Reptile zoo offering guided tours.

• SCIENCE PLACES • SCIENCE PLACES • • FEATURED LISTING • Kansas City Zoo

See ad on pg. 68 6800 Zoo Dr., KC, MO 816.595.1234 $ C4 www.KansasCityZoo.org Visitors love the Polar Bear Passage, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, world-class African exhibit, venturing to Australia and the Tropics exhibit. Live animal feedings and shows are offered daily, and watching elephants paint, sea lions train and the bird show are a few favorites. The zoo also hosts family-friendly weekends with character visits, holiday specials and workshops to educate visitors on the animals. Visit the zoo website for great events all year long.

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Native Hooved Animal Enclosure Fleming Park: 6010 E. Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.503.4800 Free D4 www.makeyourdayhere.com View the 110-acre enclosure where elk, buffalo and deer roam freely.

Manna Meadows 16842 Metro Ave. Bonner Springs, KS 913.461.5003 $ A3 MannaMeadowsAlpacas.com Alpaca farm and honeybee apiary. Call ahead to arrange a tour.

Sea Life Kansas City 2475 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.471.4386 $$ C3 VisitSeaLife.com Sea Life is a unique interactive aquarium experience that will get you up close and face-to-face with amazing underwater creatures.

Timber View Farm Alpacas 14713 W. 311 St., Paola, KS 509.750.7401 $ B5 Timberviewfarmalpacas.com Tour the alpaca farm and learn about fiber arts. Call to schedule.

YaYa’s Alpaca Farm 30200 E. 275th St. Garden City, MO 816.213.7555 $ C5 YaYasAlpacaFarm.com Tour this working alpaca farm. Call for reservations.

GO VISIT GARDENS

GO EXPERIENCE NATURE

Botanical Gardens and Learning Gardens

Conservation Centers

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

Kauffman Memorial Garden 4800 Rockhill Rd. KC, MO 816.932.1200 Free C3 www.kauffman.org/who-we-are/ our-founder-ewing-kauffman/ kauffman-memorial-garden Free 2-acre public garden.

Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden Loose Park: 5200 Wornall Rd. Kansas City, MO 816.513.7500 Free https://kcparks.org KC’s rose garden features hundreds of roses with a fountain.

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

Blue River Nature Sanctuary 17315 Antioch Rd., OP, KS 913.897.7340 $ B5 BlueRiverForestExperience.org Enjoy a variety of nature connection experiences.

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

Burroughs Audubon Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary

Linda Hall Library Urban Arboretum 5109 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.363.4600 Free www.LindaHall.org Urban garden on UMKC’s campus features a butterfly garden.

Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center

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.

Powell Gardens 1609 NW US Hwy. 50 Kingsville, MO 816.697.2600 $ D5 www.PowellGardens.org See special exhibits, acres of gardens and the nation’s largest edible landscape.

7300 SW West Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO 816.795.8177 Free D4 www.Burroughs.org A library and bird watching center complete with guides to identify local birds, binoculars and great viewing areas.

Cave Spring Park and William M. Klein Park 8701 E. Gregory Blvd., KC, MO 816.659.1945 Free C4 www.CaveSpring.org Visit the nature center and hiking trails.

Ernie Miller Nature Center 909 N. Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS 913.826.2800 Free A5 www.ErnieMiller.com The nature center features animals native to Kansas, hiking trails and educational programs.

F. L. Schlagle Library 4051 West Dr., KC, KS 913.295.8250 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.

Kemper Outdoor Education Center 8201 Jasper Bell Blue Springs, MO 816.229.8980 Free D4 www.makeyourdayhere.com See reptile displays, rock and fossil exhibits and a natural resource library.

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

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

Parkville Nature Sanctuary 8888 Clark Ave. Parkville, MO 816.741.7676 Free B2 parkvillemo.gov/nature-sanctuary Explore the nature sanctuary and hiking trails.

Prairie Oak Nature Center 14701 Mission Rd. Leawood, KS 913.696.7770 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. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 49

WHAT’S HOT, KANSAS CITY?

Mosaic Ultra Lounge

Green Lady Lounge 50 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

ansas City is known for its attractions, from athletics and sports culture to vision and visual arts. Kansas City simply has it. So with that said, where are the hidden gems? I mean where do my friends and I start when we just want to have a good time? Where can we relax and unwind? Where can I get loose with the girls? Have a drink with the guys? What exactly is hot in KC nightlife?

Whether you’re new to the town or just need a little something new to try out, the Green Lady Lounge is a classic that never dies. This classic jazz lounge features talented musicians from all over Kansas City. These musicians play live, adjacent to a full bar with dimmed lighting. It’s the perfect setting for date night, relaxation and soothing music.

The Green Lady Lounge 1809 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64108 816.215.2954 Do you prefer something quaint and a little quieter? The Mercury Room, another Kansas City hidden gem, is a beautiful space overlooking the Kansas City skyline. This private villa is the crème de la crème of KC. The Mercury Room offers its guest specialty cocktails and peace above all else. This space also allows private event catering, personalizations of your choice when it comes to music and just a good time! So whether you just want to get away or have a drink gazing at the stars, this place is the perfect spot—and you can practically make it your own.

The Mercury Room

P.S. Speakeasy

I say you not only can let your hair down, but you also can breathe easy knowing you won’t catch your boss or coworkers lingering nearby.

P.S. Speakeasy 106 W. 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64105 816.221.7000 @info@ps1931.com Looking to enjoy something a bit more active? Not opposed to learning something new when it comes to your talents in the kitchen? No problem— Taste Buds Kitchen has you covered for sure! All you have to do is book your reservation, and they take care of the rest. Taste Buds offers you and your party the chance to learn a few new tricks in the kitchen. These unique cooking classes let you sharpen your culinary skills at your own pace. Plus, with these classes, you’ll get the opportunity to laugh and learn a few new food tips and tricks with good friends in a safe space. What makes this space even more fun is that they allow you to bring a bottle of your favorite wine or champagne to keep the good times rolling!

1800 Walnut St., 14th Floor Kansas City, MO 64108 816.896.8488

Taste Buds Kitchen

“Under the radar. Underground. Undercover.” This is the motto for this next great Kansas City find. P.S. Speakeasy is a hidden Kansas City specialty cocktail bar that boasts handcrafted delicacies both foreign and native to the city. Trust me when

But wait, there’s more! If you’d rather dance the night away, Kansas City’s Power & Light District has just what you need. Neighborhood favorites like Mosaic and the Shark Bar will surely have you breaking a sweat on the dance floor with their fresh renditions

5336 W. 151st St., Leawood, KS 66224 913.257.5667

of house and hip hop and new spins on today’s popular music and culture. These two spots perch on upper floors in the Power & Light District and give you high energy, fresh air vibes on their patios. Entry to the district also gives you access to the other surrounding bars and eateries, so please, let your curiosity get the best of you!

Shark Bar (Power & Light District) 1340 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64105 816.442.8140 Mosaic Ultra Lounge 1331 Walnut St. Kansas City, MO 64106 816.679.0076 Last, but certainly not least, this bar, restaurant and event space will have you, like the town, talking! Society is not an art gallery, nor is it a bar with art. This hip new find in the KC Crossroads Art District has found a unique way to intricately integrate art into every nook and cranny of its bar, restaurant and event space. This onestop shop will give you all you need when it comes to a great night out surrounded by good vibes and good people.

Society 2050 Central St. Kansas City, MO 64108 816.643.3300

Jessica Samuel is a local writer with a love for music, fun and fine food! KCGOINGPLACES.COM 51

• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES •

THEATRICAL PLACES Big Creek Country Show

Coterie Theatre

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

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

Blue Springs City Theater 2000 NW Ashton Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.295.7331 $ bluespringscitytheatre.com Live community theater.

Cable Dahmer Arena Coterie Theatre

GO SEE A SHOW

Live Theater, Dance and Entertainment The American Theatre Guild 9001 State Line Rd., Ste. 110, KC, MO 800.776.7469 $$ C4 AmericanTheatreGuild.com/ KansasCity/ Live Broadway musicals, plays and jazz shows.

Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland 1228 Main St., KC, MO 816.283.9900 $$ C3 ArvestBankTheatre.com Live theater, concerts and other performances entertain guests. 52 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

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

Christian Youth Theater

Aztec Shawnee Theater 11119 Johnson Dr. Shawnee, KS 913.207.4147 $$ A4 AztecShawnee.com Showcasing local and regional music acts in a beautifully restored auditorium.

Barn Players Community Theatre 1000 E. 9th St., Ste. 225, KC, MO 913.432.9100 $ C3 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 $ www.BellRoadBarn.com Live community theater performances.

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.442.6100 $$ D3 CableDahmerArena.com A 5,800-seat venue located just 20 minutes from downtown. This is a premier destination for live entertainment and professional sports in Eastern Jackson County.

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

City Stage 30 W. Pershing Rd., KC, MO 816.460.2020 $$ C3 UnionStation.org/Venues/CityStage-Theatre Live theater performances for all ages.

City Theatre of Independence 201 N. Dodgion, Indep, MO 816.719.7389 $ D3 www.CityTheatreOfIndependence.org Live community theater for all ages includes children’s shows.

The Comedy Club B2

1130 W. 103rd St., KC, MO 816.326.8776 $$ C5 www.thecomedyclubkc.com An improv and stand-up comedy club.

• FEATURED LISTING • The Culture House

See ad on pg. 53 Various performance locations Olathe Conservatory: 14808 W. 117th St., Olathe, KS 913.393.3141 $ A5 Oak Park: 11149 W. 95th St., OP, KS 913.291.1972 $ B3 www.CultureHouse.com Almost every town in Europe has a Culture House, a gathering place where neighbors engage in the arts. You’re invited to become part of Kansas City’s Culture House, a place dedicated to artistic excellence. Experience live shows including musicals, dance and theater.

•

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.

Folly Theater 300 W. 12th St., KC, MO 816.842.5500 $$ C3 follytheater.org Live theater and music performances entertain at this venue.

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

• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES • Groundhog Day Theater 6906 N. Oak Trfwy., Gladstone, MO 816.897.5062 $$ C2 facebook.com/TheGroundhogDay A comedy venue featuring improv, sketch, stand-up and original shows.

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center 8788 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.826.2787 $-$$ JCPRD.com Live local theater.

Kansas City Jazz Orchestra B4

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.994.7222 $$ C3 www.KauffmanCenter.org Home to resident organizations the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera, Kansas City Symphony and other programming.

Kansas City Ballet Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity: 500 W. Pershing, KC, MO 816.931.2232

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.994.7222 $$ C3 www.KCBallet.org The Kansas City Ballet is a 30-member professional ballet company.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.994.7222 $$ C3 www.kcjo.org Live jazz concerts preserving the city’s jazz heritage.

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.

KC Improv 7260 NW 87th St., KC, MO 816.759.5233 $$ B2 ImprovKC.com Live improv comedy theater.

The KC Improv Company 4010 Pennsylvania Ave., KC, MO 816.806.4000 $$ C3 KansasCityComedy.com Live improv and sketch comedy shows.

KC Repertory Theatre Spencer Theatre 4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.2700 $$ C3 Copaken Stage 1 H&R Block Way, KC, MO 816.235.2700 $$ C3 www.KCRep.org Kansas City Repertory Theatre pursues theatrical excellence and advances the art form.

KC Symphony Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.0400 $$ www.KCSymphony.org

Enjoy professional live classical symphony.

KC Young Audiences 3732 Main St. KC, MO 816.531.4022 $ C3 www.KCYA.org Live music, dance, drama and poetry entertain patrons ages 5 and up.

Leawood Stage Co. 4800 Town Center Dr. #2038 Leawood, KS. 913.663.9157 FREE - $ B5 LeawoodStageCo.org Community theater performances offered indoors at the Lodge at Ironwoods and outdoors at Ironwoods Amphitheater in the summer.

Lee’s Summit Symphony The Pavilion at John Knox Village: 520 NW Murray Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.401.5251 $ D4 www.LSSymphony.org Classical symphony entertains with live performances.

Zoom on over st the clover Right p a t the best seat You’ll ge ful treat! For a wonder

tickets @ www.culturehouse.com KCGOINGPLACES.COM 53

• THEATRICAL PL ACES • THEATRICAL PL ACES • Liberty Performing Arts Theatre 1600 S. Withers Rd., Liberty, MO 816.439.4373 $$ 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 www.lied.ku.edu/ World famous live entertainment with theater, concerts and shows.

Lyric Opera Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, KC, MO 816.471.7344 $$ C3 www.KCOpera.org Attend live professional opera performances.

Main Street Theater 510 Main St., Belton, MO 816.406.9422 $ C5 mainstreettheaterbelton.com Community theater performed on the historic city hall stage.

Martin City Melodrama 702 Blue Ridge Blvd. Grandview, MO 913.642.7576 $ C5 www.MartinCityMelodrama.org Live Vaudeville-style theater is sure to leave the entire family laughing!

Mesner Puppet Theater 1006 Linwood Blvd., KC, MO 816.756.3500 $ C3 MesnerPuppets.org Mesner Puppet Theater is an award winning, professional puppet theater.

Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre 3927 Main St., KC, MO 816.569.3226 $ C3 http://MetKC.org A not-for-profit professional theater providing a full season of shows for the public.

• FEATURED LISTING • Midwest Trust Center

See ad on pg. 67 12345 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.469.4445 $$ B4 www.JCCC.edu The Performing Arts Series at Johnson County Community College connects and enriches 54 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

the community by serving as a national and community leader for the performing arts, presenting professional performing arts programming, providing a comprehensive arts education program and presenting new artistic work to the community.

•

Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice 10448 Mastin St., OP, KS 913.492.0004 $ www.MillerMarley.com Local youth offer live dance performances.

Piccadilly Puppets

Theatre for Young America

Various locations 404.636.0022 $ PiccadillyPuppets.org Touring puppet company performs shows across the KC metro area.

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

Puppetry Arts Institute

Theatre in the Park

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

Outdoor: 7710 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS Indoor: 8788 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS 913.826.3012 $ A4 www.TheatreInThePark.org Live outdoor theater is performed for the entire family every summer.

Music Hall

Quality Hill Playhouse

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.

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

Music Theater Heritage

114 N. Marietta Excelsior Springs, MO 816.637.3728 $ D1 www.sobtheatre.org Live community theater for all ages includes children’s shows.

Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd., Ste. 301 KC, MO 816.221.6987 $ C3 www.MusicalTheaterHeritage.com MTH presents classic musical theater and revue performances.

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

Northland Symphony Orchestra Various locations 816.945.2436 $ B2 www.NorthlandSymphony.org Enjoy notable symphony performances.

Olathe Civic Band Various locations 913.669.3388 Free-$ B3 www.OlatheCivicBand.org Live musical performances for the community.

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

Slightly Off Broadway Theatre

Starlight Theatre 4600 Starlight Rd., KC, MO 816.363.7827 $$ C3 www.KCStarlight.com Get into the spirit with starry nights, great food and the best Broadway entertainment.

Stone Lion Puppet Theatre Various locations 816.221.5351 $ www.StoneLionPuppets.org Live puppet shows are tailored for children.

Storybook Theatre 3719 SW 40 Hwy. Blue Springs, MO 816.204.5702 $ D4 StorybookTheatreKC.com Public performances are held seasonally.

T-Mobile Center 1407 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.949.7100 $$ C3 T-MobileCenter.com/ Multiuse indoor arena in the Power & Light District.

Trilogy Cultural Arts Centre 15585 S. Keeler St., Olathe, KS 913.254.4444 $ A5 www.TrilogyCulturalArts.com Live theater, dance and musical performances.

The Truman 601 E. Truman Rd., KC,MO 816.205.8560 $$ C3 TheTrumanKC.com Former car dealership and machine shop turned Kansas City’s most unique concert and event venue.

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

UMKC Theatre 4949 Cherry St., KC, MO 816.235.6222 $$ C3 UMKCTheatre.org UMKC college students offer live theater performances.

The White Theatre at the J 5801 W. 115th St., OP, KS 913.327.8054 $$ TheJKC.org Live theater and music performances entertain the whole family.

Youth Symphony of KC Various performance locations 209 W. 18th St., KC, MO 816.897.0577 $$ C3 www.YouthSymphonyKC.org Area youth offer live classical music performances.

Midwest Trust Center

Theater Scene in Kansas City

ansas City has an amazing live performing arts community, and you’ll find countless opportunities to watch live theater in our town. The ideas below are just a start … even after you’ve tried all these, you’re sure to find more!

The Coterie

Professional classic and contemporary theater tailored to children that challenges audience and artist and provides educational, dramatic outreach programs in the community. TheCoterie.org

Midwest Trust Center

Midwest Trust Center events take place primarily in Yardley Hall and the Polsky Theatre located on the campus of Johnson County Community College. Touring performances feature live concerts, dances and theater for all ages. Shows are performed year-round. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

Theatre in the Park

Enjoy outdoor performances all summer long! Go on a Thursday and buy your tickets

at the box office to save 20 percent! Don’t forget to bring your own chairs or blankets! TheatreInThePark.org

Starlight Want to see some of Broadway’s best shows but still have an “under the stars” theater experience? This is the place! KCStarlight.com

Music Theater Heritage Shows like Titanic the Musical, Cabaret and Man of La Mancha are on the season list for the rest of 2022. MusicalTheaterHeritage.com

Kansas City Repertory Theatre The KC Rep offers wonderful shows every season, and we especially love seeing their holiday favorite, A Christmas Carol, to wrap up each year. KCRep.org

The Culture House The Culture House presents a variety of shows throughout the year. Upcoming shows include Seussical the Musical, The Little Mermaid and more! CultureHouse.com

The White Theatre at the J The Jewish Community Center of Kansas City offers a gem to the theater community! Their productions are top notch, and visiting the White Theatre is a beautiful must-see if you’ve never been. TheJKC.org

Kansas City Actors Theatre With many performances at Union Station and additional shows at Avila University during the upcoming season, this company offers dramatic and intriguing performances. KCActors.org

metro and typically offers fun summer outdoor entertainment! LeawoodStageCo.org

City Theatre of Independence Grab tickets to attend a show put on by community players at the historic Sermon Center in downtown Independence. Make plans, too, to try one of the many delicious restaurants nearby. CityTheatreOfIndependence.org

The Barn Players

Catch popular favorites like Ella Enchanted and Jungle Book at this theater designed with kids in mind. TYA.org

Another KC community theater staple, the Barn Players offer a wide variety of productions. A yearly highlight is their playwright festival featuring six 10-minute plays in their premieres! TheBarnPlayers.org

Spinning Tree Theatre

Storybook Theatre

Theatre for Young America

Spinning Tree Theatre provides unique opportunities for disabled youth in the area to collaborate with professional theater artists. SpinningTreeTheatre.com

Leawood Stage Company This community production company performs in several different locations around the

Situated in the City House, a community center that has a mindset for helping entrepreneurs thrive, this youth company offers production classes for kids with shows open to the public to attend. StorybookTheatreKC.com

Julie McKinley is a single homeschooling mom, freelance writer and theater teacher. She lives with her two cats and two kids in Lee’s Summit. KCGOINGPLACES.COM 55

• SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS

SPORTS PLACES College teams for the University of Kansas, including basketball, football, baseball, cross country, track and field.

Kansas City Current New Stadium Coming Soon 913.374.0233 $$ C3 KansasCityCurrent.com American professional women’s soccer team.

• FEATURED LISTING • Kansas City Monarchs

Kansas City Monarchs

FREE $ (Under $40 for family of 4) $$ (More than $40 for family of 4) KC - Kansas City OP - Overland Park Indep - Independence

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

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

KC Royals

GO TO A GAME Pro, Semi-Pro and College Sports

Kauffman Stadium: 1 Royal Way, KC, MO 816.504.4040 $$ www.Royals.MLB.com Visit the K to watch KC’s professional baseball team.

KC Chiefs

56 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 888.926.6387 $$ D3 www.kccomets.com Kansas City’s indoor soccer team.

KC Mavericks

Grid location (C2, D3) refers to map on pg. 61.

GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium: 1 Arrowhead Dr., KC, MO 816.920.4237 $$ www.KCChiefs.com Cheer for KC’s professional football team.

•

KC Comets

LEGEND:

See ad on pg. 7 1800 Village West Pkwy., KC, KS 913.328.5618 $$ A3 MonarchsBaseball.com The home of the Kansas City Monarchs Baseball Club, the 2021 American Association of Independent Professional Baseball Champions, is a yearround sports and entertainment destination, hosting 50 home games including Sunday Fundays, Fan Fest and promotions throughout the season for the whole family.

Kansas Speedway 400 Speedway Blvd., KC, KS 866.460.7223 $$ A3 www.KansasSpeedway.com NASCAR races, car shows and classic car races offer plenty of excitement.

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

MU Athletics C3

KU Athletics 1651 Naismith Dr., Lawrence, KS 785.864.8200 $$ A3 www.KUAthletics.com

Plays at multiple locations. 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.

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

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

GO BOWLING Aaron’s Family Fun Center 17070 Aaron Ln., Belton, MO 816.322.0488 $ C5 www.AaronsFEC.com

AMF Pro Bowl Lanes: 505 E. 18th Ave. North Kansas City, MO (This location also offers miniature golf.) 816.221.8844 $ College Lanes: 10201 College Blvd., OP, KS 913.451.6400 $ www.AMF.com

Diamond Bowl 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 $ www.GladstoneBowl.net

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

PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • GO SWIM

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

Indoor Pools & Aquatic Centers D3

Mission Bowl ‘N Olathe 1020 S. Weaver St. Olathe, KS 913.782.0279 $ www.missionbowl.com/

6545 W. 151st St., OP, KS 913.685.6000 $ www.BlueValleyRec.org A5

Family Fun Center 7701 Renner Rd. Shawnee, KS 913.248.1110 $ www.ParkLanesKC.com

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

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

906 W. Liberty Dr. Liberty, MO 816.781.1998 $ D2 facebook.com/Retro.Bowl This location also offers batting cages, billiards and more.

Sterling Bowl

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

Great Wolf Lodge 10401 Cabela Dr., KC, KS 800.608.9653 $$ A3 www.GreatWolf.com Enjoy a four-story interactive tree house, winding lazy river and numerous waterslides.

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

Henley Aquatic Center

Retro Bowl

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

Gladstone Community Center 6901 N. Holmes St. Gladstone, MO 816.423.4200 $ www.Gladstone.mo.us

Park Lanes

Centennial Pool Plex “The Blue” 2401 NE Ashton Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0188 $ BlueSpringsGov.com

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

Blue Valley Rec Aquatic Center

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

18200 E. MO 78 Hwy. Indep, MO 816.521.5377 $ sites.isdschools.org/henley

High Blue Wellness Center 16400 N. Mullen Rd. Belton, MO 816.348.7400 $ www.BeltonParks.org

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

Southeast Community Center: 4201 E. 63rd St., KC, MO 816.513.0632 $ C3

Liberty, MO Community Center

Tony Aguirre Community Center: 2050 W. Pennway, KC, MO 816.513.8530 $ C3 https://kcparks.org/

KC YMCA

Atchison Family YMCA: 321 Commercial, Atchison, KS 913.367.4948 $ A1 Bonner Springs Family YMCA: 2251 S. 138th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.9348 $ A2 Cleaver Family YMCA: 7000 Troost Ave., KC, MO 816.285.9622 Linwood YMCA: 3800 E. Linwood Blvd., KC, MO 816.923.5675 North Kansas City YMCA: 1999 Iron St., North KC, MO 816.300.0531 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 South: 8875 Clark Ave., Parkville, MO 816.505.2622 $ B2 Providence YMCA/ Ball Family Center: 8601 Parallel Pkwy., KC, KS 913.378.9622 $

Red Bridge Family YMCA: 11300 Holmes Rd., KC, MO 816.942.2020 $

Legacy Park Community Center B5

KC MO Parks & Rec

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

Community Centers with Indoor Pools

Lenexa Rec Center Pool

Gregg/Klice Community Center: 1600 John “Buck” O’Neil Way KC, MO 816.513.0652 $ C3

17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.477.7529 $ Lenexa.com

Matt Ross Community Center 8101 Marty St., OP, KS 913.895.6350 $ www.OPKansas.org

Locations with Indoor Pools www.KansasCityYMCA.org

Platte County Comm Center North: 3101 Running Horse Platte City, MO 816.858.0114 $

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

Merriam Community Center 6040 Slater St. Merriam, KS 913.322.5550 $ B4 Merriam Community Center is a one-of-a-kind, year-round destination for fitness, indoor and outdoor aquatics, classes and events.

Olathe Community Center and Stagecoach Park 1205 E. Kansas City Rd. Olathe, KS 913.971.8563 $-$$ www.OlatheKS.org

Park Hill Aquatic Center 8152 N. Congress Ave. KC, MO 816.359.4080 $ www.Parkhill.K12.MO.us

Roeland Park Aquatic Center 4843 Rosewood Dr. Roeland Park, KS 913.742.7006 $ www.RoelandPark.net

Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center 6200 Martway St., Mission, KS 913.722.8200 $ B3 www.missionks.org

The View 13500 Byars Rd. Grandview, MO 816.316.4888 $ www.Grandview.org

GO SWIM

Outdoor Pools & Water Parks D4

Adventure Oasis Water Park 2100 S. Hub Dr., Indep, MO 816.325.7843 $-$$ D3 www.ci.Independence.mo.us Water park with three waterslides, pool, lazy river and more.

A4 KCGOINGPLACES.COM 57

• SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS The Bay Water Park

Frontier Pool

7101 Longview Rd., KC, MO 816.965.9218 $ C4 www.TheBayKC.com A zero-entry pool, lap pool, lazy river and waterslides.

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

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

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 eight-lane 50-meter outdoor pool that features high-speed waterslides and an outdoor wading pool.

Bluejacket Pool 10101 Bond, OP, KS 913.327.5671 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features include a 15-foot-tall waterslide, 3-meter and 1-meter diving boards and zero-depth entry youth pool with a dolphin waterslide.

Bonner Springs Aquatic Park 1200 S. 134th St. Bonner Springs, KS 913.422.7011 $ A3 www.BonnerSprings.org The aquatic park features a zero-depth entry pool, 25-meter lap pool, floatable pods, water playground, diving boards, waterslides and basketball goal.

Fairway Swimming Pool 62nd & Mission Road 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.

58 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Gardner Aquatic Park Cornerstone Park: 215 N. Center, Gardner, KS 913.856.0962 $ B5 www.GardnerKansas.gov/pool Special amenities include zerodepth entry, an active in-water play area, lazy river, multiple waterslides, floatable walk, climbing nets, spraygrounds and a tot pool.

Gladstone Municipal Pool Central Park: 7011 N. Holmes, Gladstone, MO 816.423.4200 $ 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 S. Main, Grain Valley, MO 816.847.6230 $ D3 www.CityofGrainValley.org Features include a zero-depth entry pool and waterslides. Swim lessons are offered also.

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

KCMO Parks Outdoor Pools Arbor Villa Park Pool: 66th Ter. & Main, KC, MO 816.350.2628 Ashland Square Pool: 23rd & Elmwood, KC, MO 816.350.2628 Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd. KC, MO 816.513.0730 $ C3 Budd Park: 5600 Budd Park Esplanade KC, MO 816.350.2628 $ C3 Gorman Pool: 101 NE 47th St., KC, MO 816.350.2628

Grove Park Pool: Truman Rd. & Benton Blvd. KC, MO 816.350.2628 $ C3 Jarboe Park Pool: 16th & Jarboe, KC, MO 816.350.2628 Line Creek Community Center Pool: 5940 NE Waukomis Dr., KC, MO 816.513.076 Swope Park Pool: 6700 Lewis Rd., KC, MO 816.350.2628 $ C3 https://kcparks.org/ Enjoy affordable outdoor swimming at KC Parks pools.

Merriam Aquatic Center 6040 Slater Merriam, KS 913.322.5518 $$ B3 www.Merriam.org Offers zero-depth entry, diving boards, a zip line and more.

Millcreek Pool 320 E. Poplar, Olathe, KS 913.971.5337 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org Offers zero-depth entry, a lap pool, dive well, waterslide and spray features.

Leawood Aquatic Center

Mission Family Aquatic Center

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

5930 W. 61st St. Mission, KS 913.722.8209 $-$$ B3 www.missionks.org This large outdoor pool also has an additional kiddie pool.

• FEATURED LISTING •

Lenexa Parks and Rec Outdoor Pools Ad Astra Pool: 8265 Maurer Rd. Lenexa, KS 913.492.7946

Oceans of Fun

Flat Rock Creek Pool: 13120 W. 103rd St. Lenexa, KS 913.888.3202 $

Indian Trails Aquatic Center: 8801 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 waterslide.

See ad on pg. 66 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave. KC, MO 816.454.4545 $$ C2 www.WorldsOfFun.com With waves of fun from mild to wild, Oceans of Fun offers AMAZING for everyone in the family. Extreme waterslides appeal to thrill seekers, and kiddos love the pint-sized slides, geysers and fountains at Crocodile Isle. Float along on our Caribbean Cooler lazy river and catch some waves at fan favorite Surf City Wave Pool. The newest attraction is Riptide Raceway, the world’s longest mat racing waterslide.

•

Oregon Trail Pool 1750 W. Dennis Olathe, KS 913.971.5348 $-$$ B4 www.OlatheKS.org Features include a waterslide, zero-depth 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 only $1, this is one of the most affordable pools in the metro.

PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • SPORTS PL ACES • Prairie Village Pool Complex

Summit Waves

River Roll Skate Center

Ice Rink at Bois D’Arc Park

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

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, six-lane lap pool with diving boards, a water playground area featuring mini-slides and more.

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

W. 88th Ter. Lenexa, KS. 913.477.7100 FREE B4 Lenexa.com Seasonal rink. Bring your own skates and skate at your own risk.

Riverside Community Center Pool 4498 NW High Dr., Riverside, MO 816.587.7801 $ B2 www.RiversideMO.com The 3,750-square-foot pool features a zero-depth entrance for the little ones, diving boards for the bigger kids and a splash and play area for everyone.

Roeland Park Aquatic Center 4843 Rosewood Dr. Roeland Park, KS 913.432.1377 $ B3 www.RoelandPark.net Features include a 50-meter inverted “C”-shaped pool with a 25-yard by 25-meter competitive area, a dive well, an inflatable slide, four 50-meter lap lanes and a children’s area.

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.

The Springs Aquatic Center 9400 N. Congress Ave., KC, MO 816.880.0279 $ B2 http://thespringskc.com/ Two waterslides, 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 waterslide, 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.

Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center

Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center

7838 Washington Ave., KC, KS 913.788.7788 $ A3 skatecitywest.com

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

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, zerodepth pool with fountains and youth pool with slides.

GO ROLLER SKATE B & D South Skate Center D3

Northland Rolladium D2

Community Center

19100 E. Valley View Pkwy. Indep, MO 816.442.6128 $ D3 IndependenceCommunityIce.com/ Enjoy year-round skating at the indoor ice rink.

KC Ice Center

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

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

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

GO ICE-SKATE & SNOW SKI 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.

• FEATURED LISTING • Crown Center Ice Terrace

See ad on pg. 2 2425 Grand Blvd., KC, MO 816.274.8411 $ C3 CrownCenter.com Kansas City’s only outdoor iceskating rink opens for its 50th season on Nov. 4 and is open through mid-March. The Crown Center Ice Terrace offers great events and specials throughout the season; check the website for details. Make memories on the ice with the entire family at the Ice Terrace.

•

Rink Ratz

The Ice at Park Place

513 SW Keystone Dr. Blue Springs, MO 816.229.7793 $ Rink-Ratz.com

11565 Ash St., Leawood, KS 913.663.2070 $ B5 www.ParkPlaceLeawood.com The Ice at Park Place is the only outdoor ice rink in Johnson County.

Independence

Skate City Shawnee

Winnwood Skate Center

11950 Lowell, OP, KS 913.327.5675 $-$$ B3 www.OPKansas.org Features a zero-depth entry, cooling fountains, diving boards, a 60-foot-long family slide and a twisting slide, 25-meter lap lane, youth pool and a large sand area for playing.

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

Skate City West

Skate City Overland Park

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

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

Linden Square Ice Rink 602 NE 70th St. Gladstone, MO 816.423.4200 $ C2 LindenSquare.info/ice-rink An affordable outdoor ice rink.

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

Rink at Burlington Creek 6109 NW 63rd Ter., KC, MO 816.249.2600 $ B2 www.KCIce.net Outdoor ice-skating rink in the Northland.

Snow Creek Ski Area 1 Snow Creek Dr. Weston, MO 816.640.2200 $$ A1 Man-made snow is used for this ski area where you may enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Summit Ice 120 NE Chipman Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 816.249.2600 $ D4 KCIce.net A new outdoor ice rink for skating, hockey, curling and broom ball.

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• SPORTS PLACES • SPORTS PLACES • GO LEARN ABOUT SPORTS

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.

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

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

•

See ad on pg. 29 1616 E. 18th St. KC, MO 816.221.1920 $ C3 www.NLBM.com Founded in 1990, the 10,000square-foot Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves the rich history of African American 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.

•

Royals Hall of Fame Kauffman Stadium 1 Royal Way KC, MO 816.921.8000 $ C3 MLB.com/Royals A venue that traces the history of Royals baseball.

60 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Fieldhouse of Blue Springs

68’s Inside Sports

425 NE Mock Ave. Blue Springs, MO 816.228.0137 $ D3 www.BlueSpringsGov.com Indoor batting cages, indoor blacklight miniature golf, throwing tunnels and more.

Sports Complexes, Batting Cages and Golf

Sports and Motorsports Museums

FEATURED LISTING Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

GO PLAY SPORTS

9111 Flint St., OP, KS 913.894.4752 $ 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

Mac-N-Seitz Baseball & Softball 13705 Holmes Rd. KC, MO 816.942.9992 $ C5 MacNSeitz.com Two major league-size infields, two full-size bullpens, indoor batting cages and more.

Martin City Golf Center

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

Canyon Farms Golf Club 17501 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 913.529.2235 $ B4 www.CanyonFarmsGolfClub.com Canyon Farms Golf Club’s stateof-the-art clubhouse and unique course make it the perfect country club!

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

Mid-America Sports Complex 20000 Johnson Dr. Shawnee, KS 913.826.2903 $ 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.

T-Shotz 660 NW Metro North Dr. KC, MO 816.702.1320 $$ B1 TShotz.com T-Shotz is Kansas City’s locally owned, next-generation golf and entertainment venue.

Tom Urquhart’s School of Baseball 7875 Mastin Dr. OP, KS 913.385.2255 $ B4 www.385ball.com Indoor pitching tunnels, batting cages and field.

Topgolf 10611 Nall Ave. OP, KS 913.562.9713 $-$$ B4 Topgolf.com/us/ Features 102 bays over three floors.

Chicken N Pickle 1761 Burlington North KC, MO 816.537.1400 $-$$

OP, KS location coming soon. www.ChickenNPickle.com Play pickleball, grab a healthy bite to eat or enjoy lawn games.

Drive5 12140 W. 135th St., OP, KS 913.897.4667 $ http://drive5sports.com/ State-of-the art basketball, volleyball and gym facility.

EPIC KC Sports Lodge 19310 E. 50th Ter. Indep, 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.

Oceans of Fun

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. 68) is located at C4 on this map. B

4 5

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

*Map not to scale.

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BUCKET LIST BONUSES

By Kristina Light

When you want to add something extra to your KC visit, consider one of these great bonus excursions! Giant sunflowers greet thousands of visitors every autumn at Grinter Farms where acres of the beautiful yellow flowers bloom in the heart of Kansas.

This autumn, visit the Kansas City Zoo and explore the detailed illuminated displays of GloWild, a spectacular nighttime lantern festival.

Underwater pumpkin carving is a thing, and you can watch as scuba divers carve jack-o’-lanterns at Sea Life in October.

Challenge your friends or family as you compete IN a game show in at Overland Park’s Game Show Battle Rooms.

Kansas City is known as the City of Fountains, boasting more fountains than any city other than Rome. Visit some of the city’s more than 200 fountains using the“Best Fountains” guide and map on KCParent.com.

FREE | February 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

L ove!

TIPS FOR FINDING THE PERFECT PRESCHOOL

THE

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CREATING VALENTINE MEMORIES b b b b b b b b

KEYS TO

raising

PAMPERING YOUR SPOUSE

A READER

Read KC Parent magazine each month for more ideas to enjoy with your family.

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CRAFT IDEAS, SWEET TREATS AND MORE!

A-Z

WINTER FUN IN KC

Imagine you’re in outer space as you walk a scale model of the solar system on a quest to see the entire Voyage Exhibition along Baltimore Avenue in downtown KCMO. Follow a 1-mile path through the Crossroads District, ending in front of historic Union Station to discover our solar system from the sun to Pluto. 62 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

Play a round of mini golf at Art Course, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art’s mini golf experience on the gallery lawn, with holes inspired by some of the museum’s favorite masterpieces.

Ride a bike or scooter available for rent throughout downtown and midtown Kansas City. Enjoy fresh air views of the city’s sites and attractions.

Learn about historic U.S. aircraft at the Airline History Museum. See the first Lockheed Constellation ever restored, a Martin 404, a DC-3 and a Lockheed L-1011 TriStar.

The Midwest Genealogy Center is a free research facility through the Mid-Continent Public Library system. With thousands of resources and expert research librarians there to assist, you’ll discover new secrets about your ancestors.

The 58-foot-tall Russell and Helen Means Observation Tower is opening soon at Kill Creek Park. The steel behemoth will offer visitors amazing views from the Kansas Speedway to KU. This Instagram-worthy destination is a must for photographers.

Design your own custom donut at Donutology in Westport. Mix and match flavors and toppings in this custom donut laboratory.

Ice-skating isn’t just a winter sport. Lace up your ice skates and enjoy Independence Community Ice, KC Ice Center or Line Creek Arena, some of the city’s year-round indoor ice-skating rinks.

KC Segway Tours and KC Fun Tours offer one-of-akind tours of our hometown, a great way to become more acquainted with the city.

Quench your thirst at the Roasterie, where coffee is an art form. Take a 45-minute tour and learn all about their cupping, roasting and blending processes. Get a behindthe-scenes look at the factory and experience a manual coffee brewing demonstration.

Hook a fish at Lake Olathe, one of the area’s newest lakes, where you may enjoy boating, kayaking, swimming or a day angling for “the big one.”

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 63

Pack a picnic and a blanket and enjoy Heart of America’s Shakespeare Festival’s free outdoor production of Romeo and Juliet at Southmoreland Park June 14 - July 3. Photo by Zach Andrews

Trains deliver food straight to your table at Fritz’s restaurant (Crown Center and Shawnee locations), a local icon since 1954. Carousels were once made in Kansas, and now you can visit the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. Learn about C.W. Parker, the founder of a carousel factory in Leavenworth, and ride an authentic 1913 carousel.

When we’re looking for indoor adventure, rock wall climbing is a favorite. RoKC, the longtime KC favorite, has locations in North KC, downtown KC and Olathe.

Watch as Lost Trail sodas are bottled and apple cider is made from scratch at Louisburg Cider Mill. Play at the Johnson County Museum, where the interactive KidScape exhibit, a child-size village, fosters creative play.

The Shoal Creek Living History Museum is a wonderful way to experience history firsthand.

64 KC GOING PLACES | 2022

The Lawn at Legends Outlets is a greenspace centerpiece of the shopping center offering live concerts, yoga classes and events throughout the year. In between events, it’s a great place to hang out and enjoy the outdoors with friends.

Subscribe to the eNewsletter on KCParent.com for our top-pick events every weekend and fabulous giveaways!

A KANSAS CITY

STAYCATION

Staying in town for a family vacay? Read on for how to make the most of your staycation!

DAY ONE

DAY TWO

Crown Center is a bustling mecca of family fun. Named after the famous Hallmark logo, Crown Center is not only home to the famous greeting cards’ world headquarters, but also Kaleidoscope, a free arts and crafts wonderland where kids can crank out a homemade puzzle along with other fun projects using Hallmark’s manufacturing leftovers! Then sit back and enjoy an hour-long Broadway-style show at KC’s premier children’s theater, the Coterie. If you’d like something sweet to eat, go to Chip’s Chocolate Factory where more than 40 flavors of decadent fudge are being whipped up from scratch! The fun doesn’t stop there. A hop, skip and a jump away from Crown Center is Union Station, Kansas City’s beloved train-stationturned-family-attraction-extraordinaire. Within its walls are Science City and the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, places where we can get up close and personal with simple machines, a dino dig, makers space and nature center and then sit back and view the farthest points in the sky. And thinking of stars, they’ll probably be visible outside soon, too, so it will be a perfect time to take in the view of KC’s gorgeous skyline as we venture home after an incredible day of fun.

After a day of urban excitement, visit Worlds of Fun, Kansas City’s own 236-acre amusement park themed after Jules Verne’s famous book Around the World in 80 Days. Divided into five sections (Scandinavia, Africa, Europa, the Orient and Americana), the park lets you globetrot to various shows, rides and attractions all in one day! There are rides like the Mamba for the thrill seekers in our group. And we might even spy a member or two of the Peanuts Gang in Planet Snoopy, a section where little guests can find rides just their size. Pounding the pavement is sure to make us break a sweat, but that’s just fine by me because we can cool off and catch some waves in the afternoon at Worlds of Fun’s sister park, Oceans of Fun. Thankfully, it’s easy to hop from one park to the other.

DAY THREE Don’t wonder what life was like in bygone eras. You can experience it, thanks to exceptional local programs spread out all over the Kansas City metro. Hop aboard a stagecoach at Olathe’s own Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm; step

back into pre-Civil War era life at Missouri Town 1855, a 30-acre living history museum with more than 25 historical buildings on site; get schooled on local life, Depression-era style, at Shawnee Town 1929; or try your hand at turn-ofthe-century farm life at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park, a place where young guests can bottle feed goats, hop aboard a pint-size pedal tractor, take a pony ride and even fish with an oldschool fishing pole at the local fishing spot. After all that old-fashioned fun, we can indulge in modern comforts, tasty grub and high-tech gaming at America’s Incredible Pizza, a food and game attraction that is about far more than pizza (although they have more than 100 flavor combinations of that, too!). Their colossal buffet includes hot dogs, soups, salads and pasta and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. But the fun doesn’t stop there. After eating, it’s playtime! Laser tag, bumper cars, video games, rides and attractions await!

Lauren Greenlee is a homeschooling mom of four, a KC native and a staycation enthusiast.

America’s Incredible Pizza

KCGOINGPLACES.COM 65

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KC Going Places Magazine 2022

Articles inside

Bucket List Bonuses

Experience KC with a Disability

Go See Kansas City

Four Fabulous Seasons

Get Your DIY On

Fun Food Experiences