You don’t need major funds to have fun in Kansas City; just look at these affordable activities.
We promise these free things to do are more than just an aimless walk in the park. Instead, we’re making sure you get well-researched, unique suggestions worth the trip.
Out on the town
Explore stops along the KC Streetcar | Take up the mantle of urban adventurer by hopping on and off the free public transportation to discover unique trails, pocket parks, and murals.
Dog Day Out Program | Give adoptable dogs a break from the shelter — we already have a few pup-approved ideas to choose from.
Arts + education
Kansas City Public Library | The modern library card is powerful. Beyond books, you can check out board games, musical instruments, plants at its propagation station — plus, we always recommend a game of larger-then-life chess on the Central Branch’s rooftop.
The Money Museum | At the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, guests can peep millions being made in real time, lift a gold bar worth ~$400,000, and walk away with a free souvenir bag of shredded U.S. currency.
Art museums + all they entail | Both the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Arts and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offer free admission, plus a line-up of no-cost activities like the Nelson’s free festival lineup.
Outdoors
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens | Enjoy free admission every first Tuesday of the month at this scenic garden with 1,700+ species of plants.
Lakeside Nature Center | Branch out at one of Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation facilities and meet animal ambassadors from the Southern Flying Squirrel to “Cheetoh,” the American Kestrel raptor.
Kauffman Memorial Garden | Stroll through Theis Park + Brush Creek to wind up at this botanical wonderland, curated with native and exotic plants — a favorite of City Editor Maddie. (Plus, say “hi” to the orangery’s live-in cat).
For kids
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead | Parents + grandparents, put away your moo-la. Watch a live milking demonstration, fish in the pond, pan for gold, and let your kids bottle feed baby goats for free 2 p.m. to close, Monday through Thursday.
Kaleidoscope | Children are invited to unleash their inner artist with independent art sessions featuring bows, cardboard, melted crayons and more, from the minds behind Hallmark.
Union Station Model Train Gallery | Adults will have just as much fun as their kiddos exploring this tucked-away room featuring 8,000-sqft of jaw-dropping exhibition space — which nearly doubles every year during the winter holidays.
Did we miss your favorite freebie? Let us know + we’ll update our guide.
