11 Fun Things To Do On Thanksgiving In Kansas City

When it comes to Thanksgiving in Kansas City, there are plenty of exciting things to do that will make your holiday experience unforgettable. Whether you are spending time with your family, friends or loved ones, this city has a wide range of activities that are sure to keep you entertained. From outdoor adventures to indulgent feasts, there is something for everyone in Kansas City. So, prepare to indulge in the festive spirit of Thanksgiving and check out our list of 11 fun things to do on Thanksgiving in Kansas City.

Visit the KC Zoo's Journey to South America exhibit

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and giving thanks for the many blessings in our lives. However, it can also be a time for fun activities and exploring our city, Kansas City. If you are looking for something fun and interesting to do on Thanksgiving day in Kansas City, consider taking a trip to the KC Zoos Journey to South America exhibit.

The Journey to South America exhibit at the KC Zoo showcases the diverse wildlife and ecosystems found in this beautiful continent. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Rainforest while learning about the endangered species that call these areas home. This exhibit features a range of animals, including exotic birds, rare primates, and impressive big cats such as jaguars and pumas.

Journey to South America is the perfect way to spend Thanksgiving Day because it is not only educational but also entertaining for people of all ages. You can even make your adventure more festive by wearing your favorite fall outfit or bringing along some delicious pumpkin-flavored snacks. You can also take advantage of the zoo's many activities, such as the zoo train, carousel, and tram.

The KC Zoo is open every day of the year, including Thanksgiving Day, so you can plan your visit at any time. However, it is recommended that you check the zoo's website beforehand to confirm opening hours and ticket prices. You may also want to consider purchasing your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and ensure your spot.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a fun and educational way to spend Thanksgiving Day in Kansas City, visit the KC Zoos Journey to South America exhibit. You will have a great time exploring the rich biodiversity of this amazing continent while creating lasting memories with your loved ones. So, pack some snacks, grab your family, and head to the KC Zoo for a wild and wonderful Thanksgiving adventure!

Go ice skating at Crown Center

Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasting, and fun. In Kansas City, one of the most exciting Thanksgiving activities you can participate in is ice skating at Crown Center.

Crown Center is the perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends. It offers a breathtaking outdoor ice skating rink that sits in the heart of Crown Center Square. The rink is open every day between Thanksgiving and mid-March, depending on weather conditions.

So why ice skating on Thanksgiving day? It’s a great way to get some exercise after enjoying a big meal, bond with your loved ones, and make new friends. Plus, skating is an amazing way to kick off the holiday season and get into the festive spirit.

If you’ve never ice skated before, Crown Center offers skating lessons for both novice and pro skaters. You'll be amazed at how quickly you pick up the skill. Keep in mind that the rink can get pretty busy, so make sure to arrive early.

After you're done skating, check out the Christmas lights around the Crown Center area. Learn about ice skating and the science of ice in the indoor science center. And, don't forget to warm yourself up with a cup of hot chocolate, or grab a bite to eat from one of the many food vendors in the area.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Kansas City, then look no further than ice skating at Crown Center. It's the perfect activity to enjoy with your family and friends, and it's a great way to get into the holiday spirit. So what are you waiting for? Get your skates on and get ready for some fun!

Check out the Holiday Luminary Walk at the Overland Park Arboretum

Thanksgiving in Kansas City brings about all sorts of festive activities, despite the colder weather. One of the most anticipated events of the season is the Holiday Luminary Walk at the Overland Park Arboretum. This annual event captures the magic of the holidays through a beautifully illuminated stroll amidst nature.

The Overland Park Arboretum spans over 300 acres and is filled with natural beauty year-round. However, during the Holiday Luminary Walk, the scene is particularly enchanting. The walk takes place over two weekends in November and December and features thousands of candles lining the walkways, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The lights reflect off the snow, creating a wintery glow that is nothing short of magical.

The event offers the perfect opportunity for families, couples, and friends to come together and celebrate the season. As visitors stroll through the gardens, they can enjoy live music, warm beverages, and roasted marshmallows. There are also interactive exhibits and displays set up throughout the garden to enhance the experience.

The Holiday Luminary Walk is an excellent opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple beauty of the holidays. Leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind and immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and sounds of the season. It is a great chance to make lasting memories with loved ones and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as the walk takes place entirely outside. Tickets can be purchased in advance, and there are designated parking areas available.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Kansas City, be sure to check out the Holiday Luminary Walk at the Overland Park Arboretum. You won't be disappointed in the magical experience that awaits you!

Attend the Plaza Lighting Ceremony on Thanksgiving evening

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks and spend time with loved ones. There are plenty of activities that you can do in Kansas City during this holiday season, but one event that you don't want to miss is the Plaza Lighting Ceremony.

The Plaza Lighting Ceremony is a significant event in Kansas City, held in the Country Club Plaza area, and takes place on Thanksgiving evening. The event marks the beginning of the holiday season and is a time when thousands of people gather to watch the lighting of the beautiful holiday lights.

The event features a stage with live music, food vendors, and many activities for kids. As darkness falls, the countdown begins for the lighting of more than 80 miles of holiday lights.

The Plaza Lighting Ceremony is undoubtedly a beautiful spectacle, but it’s also a great opportunity to give back to the community. During the event, organizers encourage attendees to donate canned food to Harvesters to help provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need.

One of the most unique things about the Plaza Lighting Ceremony is to witness the beautiful lights of the Country Club Plaza area from the top of a double-decker bus. These buses provide the perfect view and allow you to fully enjoy the holiday lights and decorations.

Overall, the Plaza Lighting Ceremony is an excellent way to spend your Thanksgiving evening in Kansas City, with lots to see and do. From watching the lighting of the beautiful holiday lights to enjoying live music and donating to a noble cause, there is something for everyone at this event. So don't miss out; gather your loved ones and make sure to attend the event - it's certain to be a delightful experience.

Visit Union Station's holiday model train exhibit

Thanksgiving is a time to get together with family and friends to show gratitude for everything that we have. If you are planning to spend Thanksgiving in Kansas City, you must plan ahead to ensure that you have the best experience possible. One of the things you should add to your to-do-list is visiting Union Station's holiday model train exhibit.

If you want to get in the holiday spirit, there's no better way than by visiting the Union Station's holiday model train exhibit. The exhibit is one of the largest of its kind in the country and is an annual tradition. The exhibit showcases over 25 meticulously crafted miniature trains, dozens of handcrafted model buildings, and more than 200 feet of track. The impressive display is set up in the Grand Hall and lasts throughout the holiday season.

The model trains take visitors on a journey through different regions of America, such as the mountains of the West and the plains of the Midwest. The exhibit features special stops such as a quaint town square with a church and a barn, a little league baseball field, and even a ski resort complete with skiers on the slopes.

Besides the model trains, Union Station has much more to offer. The station offers a range of other activities, such as holiday performances and numerous exhibits. You can also take a stroll around the magnificent building and admire its striking architecture.

Apart from the holiday train exhibit, Kansas City is home to many other Thanksgiving festivities. You can attend the Plaza Lighting Ceremony, watch the giant parade balloons at the Thanksgiving Day Parade, or participate in the Turkey Trot Run. Kansas City is sure to have something to offer everyone.

In conclusion, visiting Union Station's holiday model train exhibit in Kansas City is a must-do activity during Thanksgiving. The exhibit is a feast for the eyes and is immensely popular. It is an excellent opportunity to spend time with family and friends and make special holiday memories.

Take a Thanksgiving-themed cooking class at The Culinary Center of Kansas City

Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends to give thanks and enjoy a delicious meal. But why not take your Thanksgiving celebration to the next level by joining a Thanksgiving-themed cooking class at The Culinary Center of Kansas City in Overland Park? Here, you can learn new recipes, cooking techniques, and have fun while doing so.

The Culinary Center of Kansas City offers a variety of classes for those who are passionate about cooking. Their Thanksgiving-themed classes are perfect for those who want to add a new twist to their traditional Thanksgiving dinner or for those who are looking to start new traditions.

One of the classes offered is the "Thanksgiving Cooking Boot Camp." This class covers everything you need to know about preparing a delicious Thanksgiving meal, from turkey roasting to side dishes and desserts. The class is a full-day event, and you will leave with a full belly and new skills to show off at your Thanksgiving dinner.

Another class offered is the "Pie Making Boot Camp." Pies are a staple dessert for Thanksgiving, and this class will teach you how to make the perfect, flaky pie crust and a variety of different pies. You will leave with several pies and the skills to make them on your own.

If you are looking for a unique twist on your traditional Thanksgiving meal, join the "Korean Thanksgiving Feast" class. This class teaches you how to make a full Thanksgiving meal with a Korean twist. Dishes include spicy kimchi stuffing, bulgogi-style turkey, and Korean sweet potato pie.

The Culinary Center of Kansas City also offers a variety of other classes and events throughout the year, such as wine tastings, chocolate-making classes, and recipe tours. Check their website for a full schedule.

In conclusion, taking a Thanksgiving-themed cooking class at The Culinary Center of Kansas City is a fun and unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving. Whether you want to learn new recipes or cooking techniques, or just want to have a fun day with friends and family, The Culinary Center of Kansas City has something for everyone. So why not spice up your Thanksgiving celebration by joining a class today?

Go on a family hike at one of the many local parks

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for all the good things in our lives and to spend quality time with our loved ones. If you live in Kansas City, there are plenty of things you can do to make your Thanksgiving day more memorable. One great idea is to go on a family hike at one of the many local parks.

Kansas City has a number of beautiful parks that offer scenic hiking trails for all skill levels. Some of the most popular parks in the area include Swope Park, Shawnee Mission Park, and Loose Park. Swope Park is the largest park in Kansas City and offers over 1,800 acres of natural beauty, including wooded trails, streams, and even a golf course. Shawnee Mission Park is another great option, with over 1,600 acres of scenic trails around a beautiful lake. Lastly, Loose Park boasts over 75 acres of stunning gardens, picnic areas, and walking paths that are perfect for a leisurely Thanksgiving day stroll.

Before going on your hike, it is important to dress appropriately. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Remember to pack some snacks and a warm blanket in case you want to stop and have a picnic along the way. If you plan on bringing your furry friends along for the walk, make sure to check the rules of the specific park you’re visiting.

Going on a family hike is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise, while also spending quality time with your loved ones. Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty around you and make some unforgettable memories this Thanksgiving day. With so many wonderful parks to choose from in Kansas City, your family is sure to have a great time.

Attend the Gobble Wobble 5K run/walk at Arrowhead Stadium

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you're in Kansas City, there's no shortage of fun activities to enjoy during this holiday season. Among the many events that you can look forward to, one that stands out and may help you burn off some calories is the Gobble Wobble 5K run/walk at Arrowhead Stadium.

The Gobble Wobble 5K run/walk is an annual event hosted in Kansas City on Thanksgiving morning. The race is a fun and light-hearted way to kick off the day and raise some funds for charity. It attracts a diverse group of participants, from seasoned runners to families with strollers, which makes it a great event for everyone.

One of the unique features that make the Gobble Wobble 5K run/walk stand out is that it takes place at Arrowhead Stadium. This iconic stadium is home to the Kansas City Chiefs football team and is famous for its natural grass field, impeccable infrastructure, and perfect view for race participants.

The race route is relatively easy and takes runners and walkers around the perimeter of the stadium. Participants will get to enjoy nature's beauty and breathe in the fresh air on this relatively flat route. Every year, new decorations are put up to make the run filled with merriment and wonder.

For participants interested in competition, there is a trophy that goes to the fastest female and male runners. For most, however, participants are more interested in doing something fun for charity and spending some quality time with friends and family.

Overall, there are many reasons why participating in the Gobble Wobble 5K run/walk at Arrowhead Stadium is an excellent way to spend Thanksgiving morning in Kansas City. The energetic atmosphere, the fun decorations, and the stadium's spectacular architecture make it the perfect way to kick off the day. Plus, it's an excellent way to get a bit of exercise in before the big meal without over-exerting oneself. If you're looking for a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Kansas City, be sure to sign up for the Gobble Wobble 5K run/walk at Arrowhead Stadium.

Watch a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Thanksgiving is a special holiday that is celebrated all around the country, and Kansas City is no exception. It's a time for families to come together and give thanks for all the blessings they have received throughout the year. However, during this festive season, some families prefer to do things outside of the traditional turkey dinner at home. If you are in Kansas City and are wondering about something different to do for Thanksgiving, then why not watch a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema? Here is a brief guide on why this is an excellent idea.

The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a unique place that offers a one-of-a-kind movie experience. They have state-of-the-art projection and sound systems, comfy seating, and a great selection of food and drinks to enjoy while watching the movie. The main attraction, however, is the curated selection of movies that they show. On Thanksgiving day, they will be screening a selection of classic films that will cater to all audiences.

Watching a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a great way to relax and unwind while spending time with family and friends. It's an ideal activity for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of typical Thanksgiving preparations. The environment is both welcoming and cozy, making you feel at home while away from home.

Another great advantage of watching a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema on Thanksgiving day is the availability of food and drink options. You can order anything from a simple popcorn to a full-blown meal, all of which are served to your seat. Even better, they cater to all dietary requirements, including vegan and vegetarian options.

In conclusion, watching a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is an exciting way to spend Thanksgiving day in Kansas City. It's a comfortable and welcoming environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. A selection of movies, coupled with a wide range of food and drink options, ensures that everyone has a perfect time. So, why not make the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema part of your Thanksgiving tradition in Kansas City?

Take a scenic drive to view fall foliage in the surrounding areas

Thanksgiving season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than taking a scenic drive to view the beautiful fall foliage surrounding Kansas City? Autumn is a magical time of year, and what better way to enjoy it than by taking a scenic drive that's sure to leave a lasting impression. Here are some breathtaking scenic drives in and around Kansas City that you can explore this Thanksgiving season.

• The Flint Hills National Scenic Byway: This breathtaking stretch of road runs through the lush, rolling hills of eastern Kansas, and covers nearly 50 miles of densely wooded areas, hills, streams and wildlife. Take in the breathtaking views of the gold, orange and red hues of the fall foliage against the clear blue skies.
• Missouri River Scenic Byway: This scenic drive follows the Missouri River and provides stunning views of the river and the surrounding fall foliage. Stop at any of the picturesque towns or villages along the way and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
• The Glacial Hills Scenic Byway: This scenic drive is one of the most popular scenic drives in the Midwest, covering more than 236 miles of stunning scenery, including rolling hills, lakes, streams and woodland areas. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the vibrant colors of the fall foliage, greenery, and blue skies.
• The Lake of the Ozarks Scenic Byway: This scenic byway runs for 100 miles, from Bagnell Dam to the Lake of Ozarks State Park. The drive takes you through endless fall-colored woodlands, steep rocky bluffs, and stunning rolling hills.
• The Wilson Lake and Lucas Scenic Byway: This 15-mile scenic drive is a popular route for leaf-peepers, taking you through the Flinthills north of Wilson Lake. Stop at the charming small town of Lucas en route, which has a distinctly German and Bohemian charm.
• The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway: This Kansas byway covers over 40 miles of winding roads and rolling hills, featuring breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area’s fall foliage. Take your time and explore the charming towns and villages along the way.

As you can see, there are plenty of scenic drives in and around Kansas City that you can explore this Thanksgiving season. Take in the vibrant colors of the fall foliage, enjoy the picturesque towns en route, and make unforgettable memories with your family and loved ones.

Visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial

Characteristic	Description
Name	National WWI Museum and Memorial
Type	War museum in Kansas City, Missouri
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.9 / 7,349
Address	2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108
Phone	(816) 888-8100
Hours	Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Thanksgiving in Kansas City is an ideal time to explore the city's rich history and culture.

One of the essential things to do on Thanksgiving in Kansas City is to visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial.

Located at Liberty Memorial, the museum is a significant attraction that preserves and commemorates the brave men and women who served in World War I. The museum features a collection of interactive exhibits, photographs, and artifacts that provide a unique insight into the war and its impact on society.

Upon visiting the museum, visitors can engage in a thrilling experience that captures the important stories, experiences, struggles, and triumphs of the war. One of the most notable exhibits is the Trench Experience, which takes visitors through life in the trenches of World War I. Visitors can also learn about the role of women in World War I, the impact of new technologies such as airplanes, tanks, and chemical warfare, and the artistic and cultural changes that occurred during the period.

The Liberty Memorial also offers an impressive view of the City skyline, which is particularly beautiful during the Thanksgiving season. Visitors can climb the 217-feet tall tower and enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the Kansas City skyline.

In conclusion, visiting the National World War I Museum and Memorial is one of the most exciting things to do on Thanksgiving in Kansas City. The museum's incredible exhibitions and historical collections are sure to leave visitors fascinated and inspired. So grab a family member, a friend, or go solo, and enjoy a memorable experience at the National World War I Museum and Memorial.

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