10 Things To Do In March in Gardner-Spring Hill-Paola With Kids

The year is MARCHing on! See what we did there? Yep, it's true. We're already three months into 2025. Do you need ideas on how to make the most of the month of March in Gardner-Spring Hill-Paola with your family? Finding family fun is Macaroni KID's job, so we are here to help! Here are 10 things to do in Gardner-Spring Hill-Paola this March!

1. Dance to the beat

March is Music in Our Schools Month. But why limit it to school? Check out these stories for at-home music fun:

And take the initiative by signing up your kids for lessons at a local music store.

2. Cook together

Did you know March is National Nutrition Month? Make it fun for the whole family by including everyone in the kitchen.

3. Read one of these great kid books featuring characters with developmental disabilities

March 2 was Read Across America Day, but it's never too late to start reading a new book as a family. Visit a Little Free Library for some great family-friendly reading picks!

Searching out books with diverse characters to share with your children is important, but it's not always easy: Just 3.4 percent of children's books released in 2019 featured main characters with disabilities. Macaroni KID highlighted just a few amazing books featuring main characters with developmental disabilities in honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, which occurs every March. Find our list of 5 great kid books featuring characters with developmental disabilities here.

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4. Spoil those tootsies

Yep, what you've heard is true: March 6-13 was Feet Week. There's really a week for everything these days, isn't there? Celebrate your hardworking tootsies (and maybe take an afternoon break for yourself!) by heading to get a pedicure. Your feet will thank you.

5. Plan a staycation

Whether for spring break or just a weekend day, plan a staycation right here at home and act like a tourist! Heres a fun one-day itinerary:

Breakfast at The Busy Bee Café: Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at this cozy Paola café. Enjoy delicious classics like pancakes, omelets, or their famous cinnamon rolls while soaking in the small-town charm.

Visit the Paola Public Library: After breakfast, take a stroll through the Paola Public Library, which often has great local exhibits, and it's a perfect spot for a quiet break.

Explore the Ottawa Historic District: Wander through Ottawa’s downtown area where you can enjoy charming shops and historic buildings. Stop by the Old Depot Museum to get a glimpse into the city’s history or check out the Franklin County Courthouse, one of the oldest in the state.

Visit Forest Park: For some outdoor fun, head to Forest Park where you can enjoy a walk or explore the playground with the kids. It's a great spot to relax before lunch.

Lunch at The Salted Caramel Café: This cute café offers a delightful mix of light fare and indulgent treats. Opt for a sandwich and try their famous salted caramel desserts!

Take a Break at Gardner Park: If the weather’s nice, enjoy some outdoor time at Gardner Park. With spacious walking trails and playgrounds, it's perfect for families to stretch their legs.
Stop at the Edgerton Antique Mall: Explore unique antique finds and treasures in the Edgerton Antique Mall. It’s a quirky stop that gives you a taste of the town's local culture.

Finish in Lawrence – The Spencer Museum of Art: End your day by heading to Lawrence and visiting the Spencer Museum of Art at the University of Kansas. It’s free to the public and offers a fantastic collection of both historical and contemporary art.

Dinner at The Vintage Veil: Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal at The Vintage Veil in Ottawa. This restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere and delicious local fare that makes for a perfect dinner after a day full of adventure.
Optional Evening Activity: If you still have energy, cap off your staycation with a movie at the Gardner Cinema or catch a live performance at the Theatre Lawrence.

6. Clean!

OK, maybe this isn't your idea of a good time but we love a good deep spring cleaning. Crank up your family's favorite tunes and give everyone a job to do. Or better yet, think about hiring a cleaning company, like Clean Heart Maids, to visit your home regularly ... it can be a sanity-saver for a busy family!

Looking for cleaning tips? Check out these articles:

7. Plant something

It's been a looooong winter but spring officially arrives March 20th! Not only that, but March 12 was National Plant a Flower Day!

8. Celebrate National Puppy Day

Give that favorite puppy allllllll the pets and kisses today. Don't have one? Consider adopting at your local animal shelter, or volunteering time or donating there. Many shelters have kid programs so your child can volunteer as well! March 23

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9. Eat waffles

Head to your favorite breakfast spot to order waffles on International Waffle Day, or break out the waffle maker and make them at home for dinner just this once! Your kids will love it. Check out these cute bunny waffles. March 25

10. Check out our Macaroni KID guides & calendars!

If you still need more ideas, you've come to the right place! Between our curated guides and full events calendar, you're sure to Find Your Family Fun!