Adrenaline Family Fun

Rooftop Picnic

With so many beautiful parks, trails and green spaces, Kansas City boasts endless picnic options. But for a one-of-a-kind experience, you can picnic on the rooftop at Green Roof Park (1211 Main St., Kansas City, Mo.) in the Power & Light District. Access may be found off of Main Street, between 12th and 13th streets. Bring a blanket (there are no tables) and pack a favorite lunch, then snap photos of the city. Afterward, explore downtown with a free ride on the KC Streetcar.

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Adrenaline Level Campout

Many beautiful campgrounds are in the area, but one of our all-time favorites is Watkins Mill State Park in Lawson, Missouri. The park is home to a 100-acre lake, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails and Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site. Tour a 19th-century three-story woolen mill and home to learn what life was like for families more than a century ago. The mill is the only 19th-century textile mill in the United States with its original machinery still intact. While you’re camping, enjoy paved bike paths, fishing spots, boating, picnic tables and a swim beach. Find information at MoStateParks.com/park/watkins-mill-state-park.

Adrenaline Level

Hot Air Ballooning

If you’re looking for a thrill that is safe, serene and peaceful (yes, peaceful), then hot air ballooning is the adventure for you. Passengers float above rooftops and enjoy a breathtaking view. Old World Balloonery (913.338.2628) is a local company offering rides. Children must be 10 years old and 36 inches from the bottom of their chin to their feet to ride.

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Trail Blazer

Walk It

A walk or run on the Riverfront Heritage Trail, the city’s 15-mile bi-state bike and pedestrian trail, offers amazing views of the riverfront and a tour of the city’s most historic districts. You’ll discover public art, historic sites and natural beauty along the trail. Our favorite stretch is from the Berkley Riverfront Park to the River Market where you can grab a bite at one of the many local restaurants. Find a complete map at KCRiverTrails.org.

ADRENALINE LEVEL HIKE

Make a Splash A DAY AT THE BEACH

We may be landlocked in the Midwest, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a little sand and sun. This summer, enjoy the newly improved Lake Olathe that boasts a swim beach, brand new marina, dock and fishing pavilion. Visitors will also enjoy the nature-themed playground, sprayground, pond, waterfall and trails. For information visit OlatheKS.org/LakeOlathe.

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Paddle Board

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Explore the city’s earliest history on a hike at Cave Spring (8701 E. Gregory, Kansas City, Mo.). The 36-acre urban nature center and historic area is the site of an original stop on the Santa Fe Trail, where covered wagons passed and wagon trains camped overnight. The land was once owned by Solomon Young, Harry S. Truman’s grandfather. On a hike you’ll see ruins of early cabins from the 1920s, a waterfall, a butterfly garden and a bird sanctuary.

Head to Legacy Park in Lee’s Summit where you can rent stand-up paddle boards and canoes to enjoy on the 22-acre lake. The lake is also home to a fishing dock, a scenic overlook, shelters and a 4.7-mile pedestrian and bike trail. To rent a paddle board, bike or canoe, call 816.969.1550.

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ADRENALINE LEVEL BIKE

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Take the family on a bike ride through Shawnee Mission Park. This park is breathtaking, featuring mountain bike trails connecting to Mill Creek Streamway Park trails. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the lake, woods and shelters. This park is a great choice for nature lovers. Find maps at JCPRD.com/519/Park-Maps.

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Level Take A Plunge

A day at Oceans of Fun always makes our top picks list for summer fun. The outdoor waterpark offers great attractions for the entire family. If you’re looking for adventure, try the extreme waterslides at Predator’s Plunge or the Surf City Wave Pool, where the one million gallons of water rush in high tide every 10 minutes. Take a break in your day and relax in the Caribbean Cooler lazy river. For younger children, the park offers pint-sized slides, geysers and fountains at Crocodile Isle, and a giant water playhouse at Paradise Falls. Bonus: Admission to Worlds of Fun is included with your ticket, so you can enjoy roller coasters and rides on the same day!

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