Winter in Kansas City, Kansas can swing from mild sunshine to a howling winter blizzard, making outdoor plans tricky. But cold weather doesn’t have to stop the fun. Whether you're visiting Kansas City, KS or exploring your own backyard as a local, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. From cozy coffee shops and family-friendly arcades to immersive art installations and entertainment venues, here are 15 things to do indoors in Kansas City, KS.
1) Visit a KCK local coffee shop
Curling up in a cozy Kansas City, Kansas coffee shop is one of the biggest perks (pun intended) when winter hits. Sip seasonal lattes and pastries from Third Space Coffee and The Grounded Sole Coffeehouse, grab a Strawberry Hill blend from Splitlog Coffee, or try an authentic cortadito at Cortadito Cuban Cafe. Coffee lovers will find plenty of local flavor across KCK.
2) Step into the Midwest’s premier immersive art experience at Atlas 9
This 45,000-square-foot, cinema-themed art attraction is the first of its kind in the Kansas City metro. Atlas 9 is a labyrinth of installations, live performances, and interactive tech designed to blur the line between reality and fiction, right here in Kansas City, Kansas.
3) Soar to new heights
Located inside a historic church in KCK, Voler Thieves of Flight is an aerial acrobatics gym offers classes in trapeze, aerial silks, acro yoga and more, perfect for anyone looking to try something new indoors.
4) Embark on a KCK food journey
The KCK Taco Trail and KCK BBQ Trail highlight some of Kansas City, Kansas’ most beloved and authentic cuisine. Taste your way through local neighborhoods and discover new favorites.
5) Let your creativity flow
Whether it’s a friends outing or solo date, Kansas City, Kansas has spots that inspire. The Small Hinge Creative Studio in downtown Bonner Springs and Epic Clay Studio in historic Strawberry Hill offer guided classes and open studio time so you can craft a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
6) Get your game on
Dave & Buster’s in the expanded Million Dollar Midway at Village West offers endless arcade games, innovative drinks, wings and massive HDTVs, making it an ideal way to spend an afternoon indoors. Prefer retro vibes? Head to 403 Club for drink specials and vintage pinball in Kansas City, Kansas.
7) Learn our story through museums
Kansas City, Kansas is home to museums that span centuries of history. Tour the Grinter Place, one of the oldest farmhouses in Kansas, explore Quindaro’s connection to the Underground Railroad, or browse artifacts dating back nearly 2,000 years at the Wyandotte County Museum.
8) Splash away for a weekend
Beat cabin fever without leaving town. The all-new Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City features island-themed rooms, indoor pool, dining, and family activities. Another favorite is Great Wolf Lodge Kansas City, a go-to getaway for families year-round.
9) Practice your swing at Grip 'N' Rip
Grip ’N’ Rip Hobby & Golf at Old Mill Properties combines golf simulators and rare collector cards for a unique indoor hangout. While there, explore neighboring Old Mill businesses like Quinten’s BBQ & Sides, Ten & Two Coffee Bar and Outfield Beer Co.
10) Explore the outdoors...indoors
Bass Pro Shops in Kansas City, Kansas offers a 180,000 sq. ft. showroom filled with hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear. Visitors can also check out the Mule Deer Country Museum, archery range, safari displays, and giant freshwater aquarium.
11) See how it’s made
Just minutes from Village West, Bonner Springs is home to unique maker experiences. Watch live marble-making demonstrations at Moon Marble or indulge at CST Sweets, a Kansas City confectionary where fudge, toffee, house-made ice cream and bacon brittle take center stage.
12) Have fun on wheels
Rediscover the joy of roller skating at Skate City Wyandotte or swap skates for a board at Studio Skate Supply & Indoor Skate Park in Kansas City, Kansas.
13) Get lost in a book
Located in Strawberry Hill, Flagship Books is an independent bookstore that’s perfect for browsing on a chilly day and checking “read more” off your New Year goals.
14) Feel the groove
Live music is alive in Kansas City, Kansas. Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen hosts blues and jazz several nights a week, while The Shop cigar lounge brings in local musicians every Friday night.
15) Find Southwest vibes in KCK
In the Rosedale neighborhood, Garden House Cafe pairs matcha lattes with southwest-inspired plants and local goods. Next door, Sagebrush offers artful cocktails in one of the most stylish bar settings in Kansas City, Kansas.
Discover more shops, attractions and all there is to see and do in Kansas City, KS here!
