One day in Kansas City with 11 year old son
My son and I have never been to Kansas City before and will be coming in one night early for his basketball tournament. We have to stay in Olathe area in a Residence Inn since its a stay to play tournament. We would like to see a bit of the city and eat some good BBQ while we are there, but will only have 6-8 hours for our sight seeing. Does anyone have good sight seeing and BBQ recommendations for an 11 year old sporty boy and his Mom? Thanks a million!!
With only 6-8 hours to explore Kansas City and a young, sporty companion, you’ll want to focus on activities that are fun, interactive, and easy to reach from Olathe. Since your priority is both sightseeing and BBQ, here’s a suggested plan that balances food, sights, and a little bit of activity.
Start by driving into the downtown area, which is roughly 30-40 minutes from Olathe. Downtown KC has several kid-friendly attractions and is very walkable for a short visit.
- National WWI Museum and Memorial: This museum is engaging for older kids and offers interactive exhibits. The view from the top of the Liberty Memorial Tower is spectacular for a quick city overview.
- Crown Center and SEA LIFE Kansas City: A short drive from downtown, this area is fun for families. The SEA LIFE aquarium can be entertaining for an 11-year-old, and there’s a small indoor play area.
- Kansas City Power & Light District: Good for a quick stroll and sightseeing, with public art, fountains, and a lively atmosphere, though you may skip dining here for BBQ.
For lunch or an early dinner, Kansas City is famous for its BBQ. Since time is limited, you’ll want a place that’s close to downtown but highly rated:
- Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que: Located in a former gas station in the Crossroads area, this spot is famous for ribs, burnt ends, and brisket. Casual and fun for kids.
- Q39: Offers a slightly upscale BBQ experience with a menu that’s approachable for children. Great for sampling a variety of meats.
- Arthur Bryant’s: A historic BBQ spot that’s iconic to KC. More casual, with a classic feel, perfect for a quick authentic bite.
If you have extra time and energy after BBQ, consider a brief stop at:
- Kansas City Zoo or Loose Park: Loose Park has open space for a quick walk or to let your son burn off some energy. The zoo is further out but could work if traffic and timing allow.
- Union Station: Features a small science center, trains, and sometimes exhibits that can captivate kids even with a short visit.
With a tight schedule, it’s best to plan one main indoor attraction (museum or aquarium) and pair it with a top BBQ stop, so you get both sightseeing and the local food experience without feeling rushed. Traffic can add time, so factor that into your itinerary.
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