There’s something so magical about winter in Kansas City — the lights, the cozy traditions, the holiday events, and those sweet moments with our kids that make the season feel extra special. If you’re looking for fun, memory-making ideas to sprinkle throughout the next few months, this list is for you!
Here’s our Kansas City Winter Bucket List packed with local events, family-friendly fun, and a few ideas just for YOU, too.
Wholesome Winter Fun in Kansas City
Kansas City Winter Bucket List
☐ Visit Holiday Reflections at Union Station
Union Station goes all out with their walk-through holiday experience. It’s a must-see every year.
☐ Pop into the Hallmark Christmas Experience at Crown Center
A Kansas City holiday staple and so fun for little kids.
☐ Take the kids to see Saint Nic’s on the Plaza
It’s charming, festive, and the perfect Plaza stop for photos.
☐ Take a nighttime stroll at Sar-Ko Aglow in Lenexa
A dreamy, peaceful light display — totally free and perfect after dinner.
☐ Go ice skating — Crown Center, Park Place, Chicken N Pickle, or SERV
Because what’s winter without skating at least once?
☐ Book a time to pet the Kansas City Reindeer (yes, REAL reindeer!)
Such a unique KC experience — your kids will talk about it forever.
☐ Plan a gingerbread house competition playdate
Moms vs. kids… or kids vs. kids… winners get bragging rights.
☐ Have a full-on cozy Christmas movie marathon
The comfier the pajamas, the better.
☐ Stay up late for a drive down Candy Cane Lane
A classic KC Christmas drive-through tradition.
☐ Buy tickets to see the Quixotic Winterland show
A magical, artistic holiday show that’s uniquely Kansas City.
☐ Cruise through Winter Magic for the drive-thru lights
Perfect for toddlers who want lights and moms who want to stay warm.
☐ Get tickets to see Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol
A festive show that’s great for a date night or family outing with older kids.
☐ Bake and decorate holiday cookies together
Sprinkles everywhere? Worth it.
☐ Walk around the Plaza to see the pretty lights
A Kansas City tradition — and it never gets old.
☐ Get a babysitter and go out to a holiday pop-up bar with friends
Because moms deserve a little magic, too.
☐ Visit a Christmas tree farm to pick the perfect tree
Take photos, breathe in the pine, make it an annual tradition.
☐ Grab your girlfriends for a Kansas City holiday market shopping day
Support local and knock out your list at the same time.
☐ Have an ornament-making craft day with the kids
Cute, sentimental, and they keep them forever.
☐ Plan a family game night with holiday music & festive mocktails/cocktails
Simple, fun, and guaranteed memory-maker.
☐ Take a weekend road trip to Branson for the Silver Dollar City lights
These lights are NEXT LEVEL — truly worth the drive.
☐ Get tickets to see the Nutcracker Ballet or Elf the Musical
Holiday performances are such a sweet tradition.
☐ Check out Christmas books from the local library
Perfect for bedtime or a cozy afternoon at home.
☐ Watch the Penguin March at the KC Zoo
Short, adorable, and kids LOVE it.
☐ Walk through Powell Gardens’ Festival of Lights
A beautiful outdoor light experience and one of the best in the metro.
☐ Write letters to Santa with the kids
Add hot cocoa and Christmas music for maximum magic.
Make This Season Magical — Your Way
Whether you check off all 25 or just pick a few favorites, this winter bucket list is all about slowing down, making memories, and soaking in the magic of the season with your family.
If you use the list, be sure to tag @kcmomsclub so we can follow along!
