What do baseball, barbeque, and bears have in common? Kansas City, of course! Kansas City, Missouri, has become a premier family destination and thanks to its location, right in the middle of the Midwest, it's easy to get to for families planning summer trips.
This city of over 475,000 offers plenty to see, do, and eat. Famous animator and Disneyland creator, Walt Disney, originally hailed from Kansas City. If he were alive today, would undoubtedly be glad to see how many different things there are for children of all ages to see and do in his hometown.
One of your first stops needs to be the Kansas City Zoo, which features a new Polar Bear exhibit opening in summer 2010. This year-round zoo features the big cats, elephants, rhinos, sea lions and plenty more. Children of all ages will be thrilled to feed the giraffes or play peek-a-boo with the meerkats. Plan for nearly a whole day to walk the park and take in all the ecological programs.
Get out to the ballpark to watch the Kansas City Royals play baseball during the summer, or hit Arrowhead Stadium when it gets a little cooler for a Chief's football game. The sports lovers in your family will love the atmosphere of a professional game and see nationally recognized players.
Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun provide plenty to do for all ages: whether roller coasters or water slides are your gig, these two parks in one location will bring smiles to their faces. The new Schlitterbahn Vacation Village near the Country Club Plaza shopping area offers the world's longest tidal wave river, as well as an uphill water coaster.
Kids play for free at the Kaleidoscope art area in the Hallmark Crown Center. Take in some of the various museum attractions such as the Union Station's ever changing exhibits, the fantastic art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum, or the tiny toys featured in the Toy and Miniature Museum.
The city offers plenty of shopping and is known for its outstanding barbeque. Check out The City Market, Kansas City's amazing farmer's market and pick up some local produce. A visit to Kansas City is not complete without a stop at the Power & Light District, an outdoor entertainment venue offering free concerts and "Family Fun Days" all summer long.
Click on www.visitkc.com for more information on this great getaway city-- amazing deals on airfare and hotel stays can be found there, as well as tons of info about specific local city highlights.
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