Outdoor Pursuits for KC Families
The City of Fountains is overflowing with family-friendly activities and adventures. As we head into summer, we’re guessing that your clan can’t wait to get outdoors and get busy.
Lucky for us, Kansas City is a wonderful place for families to explore together – especially on a warm, sunny day. And here’s a reminder of what can be found right in our backyards.
10 Outside Pursuits for Families
Deana Rose Children’s Farmstead
Designed to model a traditional Kansas family farm, this farmstead in Overland Park features hundreds of animals, a fishing pond, and pony rides. https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/deanna-rose-childrens-farmstead/
Ernie Miller Nature Center
Lace up the hiking boats and head to Olathe for a dose of nature. Birdwatch, explore educational exhibits, and trail-blaze to your heart’s content. https://jcprd.com/328/Ernie-Miller-Park-Nature-Center
Kansas City Northern Miniature Railroad
There is a trio of historical G-16 trains that run on a half-mile track in Frank Vaydik Park. And families can ride all three from May through September. http://www.kcnrr.com/
Kansas City Zoo
Located in Swope Park, this 202-acre zoo is home to over 1,700 creatures from around the world. Families have been coming here to walk and talk with the animals since 1909. https://www.kansascityzoo.org/
Kauffman Memorial Garden
This two-acre garden in the heart of downtown Kansas City boats thousands of plans and several beautiful water features. Don’t miss the Secret Garden behind the conservatory. https://www.kauffman.org/our-campus/memorial-garden/
Lakeside Nature Center
Located in Swope Park, this nature center is home to one of Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation facilities. Explore local wildlife, take a guided hike, and even nature story time. https://www.lakesidenaturecenter.org/
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm
There’s only one working stagecoach stop left on the Santa Fe Trail, and it’s in Olathe. Come discover 1860s farming and life on the Kansas frontier and even ride a mudwagon stagecoach. https://www.mahaffie.org/
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Three hundred acres of grounds include trails, prairie, botanical gardens, and sculptures. With almost six miles of paved and wood-chipped trails, it’s the perfect place for a walk. https://artsandrec-op.org/arboretum/
Penguin Park
Let the kids run loose and stretch their wings. This Northland favorite features a 26-foot kangaroo slide and a 23-foot playable penguin. https://kcparks.org/places/penguin-park
Swope Park
Hours of family fun awaits. Across 1,800 acres, you’ll find bike trails, soccer fields, playgrounds, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and two golf courses. https://kcparks.org/places/swope-park/