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Guide to Kansas City's Family-Friendly Museums - Part 1

Exploring Kansas City's Family-Friendly Museums: A Gateway to Education and Fun

By Melissa Basgall, Editor and Publisher, Macaroni KID KC August 7, 2023

Kansas City is a city steeped in history and culture and is home to a number of museums that cater to visitors of all ages. Join us for part one of our two-part guide to family-friendly museums in Kansas City!

For families and kids, these museums offer unique and enriching experiences that combine education with entertainment. From hands-on exhibits to interactive displays, here are just a few of Kansas City's family-friendly museums that will captivate young minds and ignite a love for learning.

  • Science City at Union Station: Science City is a haven for curious minds, offering an array of interactive exhibits and activities that make learning about science and technology an exciting adventure. Kids can explore the forces of physics, experiment with electricity, discover the wonders of biology, and more. The hands-on approach fosters a deep understanding of complex concepts while having fun. There’s even a space built specifically for little ones!
  • The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: A treasure trove of artistic marvels, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers a family-friendly environment that encourages children to appreciate and engage with art. The museum offers free fun each Saturday and Sunday from 1-4pm with hands-on activities, close looking and conversation with museum guides. Now through October 29, 2023! 


  • Kaleidoscope: A subsidiary of Hallmark Cards, Kaleidoscope is a haven for creativity and imagination. Children can immerse themselves in a world of art by transforming recycled materials into vibrant works of art. The facility offers free 40-minute creative sessions that allow kids to let their artistic spirits soar. Registration is required. Be sure to stop by the Hallmark Visitors Center next door for another wonderful museum experience. 
  • National WWI Museum and Memorial: Despite its somber subject matter, the National WWI Museum and Memorial caters to family visitors by offering educational opportunities in an age-appropriate manner. The museum's interactive exhibits and informative displays provide a chance for parents to educate their kids about history and the importance of peace. History is brought to life through their Hands-on-History program where guests of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts every Saturday at noon. 
  • Negro Leagues Baseball Museum: Baseball enthusiasts and families alike can relive the history of the Negro Leagues and its legendary players through multimedia exhibits and memorabilia. The museum celebrates the triumphs and struggles of African American athletes and inspires kids to persevere and dream big.


  • Museum at Prairiefire: The Museum at Prairiefire features a range of rotating exhibits, bringing diverse subjects to life through immersive experiences. In the Discovery Room kids enter a world of hands-on science and interactive discovery. They will find an array of artifacts and specimens, live animals, puzzles, and scientific challenges to explore.
  • TWA Museum: Take a journey through the golden age of aviation at the TWA Museum. Families can explore the history of Trans World Airlines through artifacts, aircraft models, and interactive displays, making it an exciting experience for aspiring aviators!

Kansas City's family-friendly museums go beyond traditional notions of education, offering immersive and engaging experiences that cater to the young audience's curiosity and imagination. These museums are not only places for learning but also hubs of fun and entertainment, making them the perfect destinations for families to explore and bond over shared interests. So, the next time you’re looking for indoor fun in Kansas City, don’t sleep on our many museums that promise to leave lasting memories and instill a passion for knowledge. Stay tuned for part two where we'll list even more family-friendly museums in KC!