Free (or nearly free) things to do in KC

We’ve really enjoyed getting outside the past couple of days, but with the weather continuing with its ups and downs, I’m still on the lookout for some fun, free outings for the family. Fortunately, KC offers many options!

Kaleidoscope is the place to go for some free creative fun in KC. With tons of amazing left-over materials from Hallmark to choose from, there’s always something fun to create, including puzzle making, black-light artwork, and crazy decor to get your creative juices flowing.
Museum at Prairiefire: While there is an entrance fee to enter the museum and the Discovery Center, the Great Hall lives up to its name with some very fun (and free) exploration. In addition to a life-size T-rex model and other fun dinosaur facts, kids will enjoy ALIVE, an interactive virtual program that lets kids bring their very own dinosaurs to life on screen (trust me, your kids won’t want to leave). Not to mention lots of space to run around and look at the beautiful architecture and colorful windows. If the weather is nice enough, the outdoor exploration path behind the building lets you enjoy the building’s beauty it in its full glory.
Anita B Gorman Conservation Discovery Center: Check out our Events Calendar for listings of the conservation center’s ongoing educational activities. The hands-on fun and opportunity to look around inside and out make this a great place to visit…free of charge!
The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art: Sunny and bright inside, the building is a fun and unusual place to visit, plus, it’s small enough that you can easily keep an eye on your little ones as they move around. Check their website or our Events Calendar for upcoming family-friendly events.
The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City offers a wealth of opportunities (free of charge). Their free self-guided tours lets you get the most out of the exhibits, which include a variety of interactive ways for kids to learn and enjoy themselves.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Open Wednesdays – Sundays, the Nelson offers free admission every day. Whether winding your way throughout the Bloch Building, checking out the knights’ armor, or visiting one of the many other areas of interest, the art and architecture have something for everyone. Of course, the outdoor space is great on warmer days, with plenty of Pokemon for your Pokemon Go hunters to find.
The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art: Another great place to visit, full of unusual and interesting art in a bright, spacious environment. Plus, its location at the Johnson County Community College campus makes it feel like a very grown up experience for your older kiddos.