Free Indoor Summer Activities to Do With Your Children:
We already have our Top Free Things to Do with Kids article, but what do you do when that Kansas City heat and humidity starts to soar? We’ve found some fun, fabulous, and free activities in Kansas City this summer, and the best part is, they all involve air conditioning.
Here are some great ways to spend a hot day!
Fun Activities at the KC Metro Public Libraries
Visit any of the Kansas City Metro Public Libraries, and you’re sure to find a children’s activity any day of the week. From story times and crafts to educational events and silly fun, the public libraries are always worth a visit.
Kaleidoscope at Crown Center
Kaleidoscope is the brainchild of Hallmark Cards’ Don Hall, who envisioned a space where kids could “explore, create, imagine, and do.” The magical atmosphere allows you and your kids to create art from leftover Hallmark materials. Sessions last about 40 minutes.
Location: Crown Center
Hours: Independent sessions for ages 5-12 and family sessions are offered throughout the week; please check the website for details.
Ticket Info: Free tickets are available at 9:30 each morning in the Kaleidoscope lobby at Crown Center.
Nelson Atkins Museum of Art/ Bloch Building
Head inside to enjoy a blast of cool air while exploring the miles of galleries, collections, and exhibits. Some special collections may cost extra, but all other parts of the galleries are free.
Location: 4525 Oak, Kansas City
Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM Tues-Thurs; 10 AM-9 PM Friday; 10 AM-5 PM Saturday; Noon-5 PM Sunday.
Kansas City Museum
The Kansas City Museum, formerly the home of philanthropist Robert A. Long, is dedicated to preserving Kansas City’s rich history and artifacts. Attend story time, a fantastic addition since 2009.
Location: 3218 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64123
Hours: Tues-Sat: 9:30 AM-4:30 PM; Sunday: Noon-4:30 PM.
Note: During the Museum Restoration (Summer 2009), regular operating hours will be maintained, and admission is free.
Wonderscope Children’s Museum
While Wonderscope is not entirely free (admission ranges from $4-$7), the minimal cost is well worth the fun and enjoyment you’ll experience. With activities ranging from art creation to the H20! exhibit and the Lego Ocean Adventure, children of all ages will have a great time at Wonderscope—parents will enjoy the experience, too!
Money Museum at the Federal Reserve
The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank offers a unique experience that is both free and open to the public. Here, you can watch millions of dollars in currency being processed and view an impressive collection of coins. Walk-in tours and guided tours are available, and all guests must undergo a security screening. Guests over 18 must bring their ID.
Kansas City Board of Trade Tour
Aspiring financial whizzes will enjoy touring the 150-year-old Kansas Board of Trade. Located just a block south of the Country Club Plaza, the Board of Trade primarily trades wheat commodities. Learn about the journey of wheat and what futures and options mean to the Board of Trade. Witness the excitement of the trade floor’s opening or closing. Please Note: Only high school-aged individuals or older may attend the tour.
Location: 4800 Main – 3rd Floor, Kansas City, MO.
Tours: By appointment, 9 AM or 12:45 PM, Mon-Fri.
Call 816-753-7500 for more information.
Crown Center
Located across from Kaleidoscope and the Hallmark Visitor Center, Crown Center is a delightful place to explore and stay cool. On weekends, you’ll typically find puppet shows, story times, or children’s entertainment in the main atrium. Enjoy the changing free exhibits for children on the ground floor next to the Coterie Theater. Chip’s Chocolate Factory also offers free tours of their fudge-making process, but reservations are required.
