Ah, spring is (finally!) in the air and while we’ll still get a few more storms or cold spells before later-spring warmth can be depended on, these fun, family outings and destinations will keep you from sinking into extended winter doldrums.

5 Things the Family Can Do to Take Advantage of Springtime in KC

Here are five of our staff favorites, many of which have become our own, “Rites of Spring.”.

1. The Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

The Kansas Children’s Discovery Center is a hands-on children’s museum featuring 15,000 square feet of exhibits for your kiddos to enjoy and even includes a special space for babies and toddlers. There are options for both indoor and outdoor exploration, learning, and play. Visit THIS LINK to learn more about hours, cost of admission, and discounts!

2. Brookside Art Annual

What’s better than a quaint neighborhood, the promotion of artists and their art, and plenty of free children’s activities and outdoor music? Make sure you head to the Brookside Art Annual, which takes place the first weekend in May. No need to pack much as local food vendors will have booths there as well.

3. Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

You can’t argue with a $5 admission price (children ages 2 and under are free), and a place that everyone in the family will enjoy. The Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, located right in Overland Park, is open 9-5 daily from April through October. The park features a turn-of-the-century main street, a historic schoolhouse, petting zoos, a fishing pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, tours, educational programs and more. You can even host your little one’s birthday party at the farm if it falls within their open season.

4. Kansas City Zoo

As the tagline says, it’s “an experience you won’t fur-get!” Get it? Yeah, we know it’s punny but true! From birds to fish, mammals to amphibians, “the Kansas City Zoo is home to more than 1,700 animals, representing more than 200 species.” New in 2023 will be the addition of an aquarium! They’ve also got a schedule of daily activities for you and your family to attend that will teach you more about the amazing creatures that live at the zoo.

5. The Ceramic Cafe

The Ceramic Cafe is a paint-yourself ceramic studio where kids and parents can indulge their creativity by painting a ceramic masterpiece. But the fun doesn’t end there! They also offer “Toddler Time” on Mondays and Thursdays and “Story Time,” also on Mondays, and you can host your child’s birthday party there as well!

What are some of your favorite things to do with the family in and around KC during the spring months? Women’s Health Associates would love to hear your suggestions.