25 Best Summer Camps & Kids’ Activities in Kansas City

If you're a parent in Kansas City, you're likely considering the best summer camps and activities for your kids. With so many options available, from adventure and art to science and sports, the choices can feel overwhelming. Each camp offers unique experiences, tailored to various interests and age groups. Curious about which camps stand out? Let's explore the top 25 summer camps that can enrich your child's summer experience.

Adventure Camp at Kansas City Zoo

If you're looking for an unforgettable experience for your child, the Adventure Camp at Kansas City Zoo should be at the top of your list.

This unique camp offers thrilling wildlife encounters and engaging zoo education that sparks curiosity. Your child will explore the animal kingdom while learning about conservation and biodiversity, creating lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for nature.

Art Camp at the Nelson-Atkins Museum

When your child attends the Art Camp at the Nelson-Atkins Museum, they'll immerse themselves in a world of creativity and inspiration surrounded by stunning artworks. They'll explore various art techniques and release their creative expression.

Day	Activity	Focus
Monday	Painting	Color Theory
Tuesday	Sculpture	3D Techniques
Wednesday	Photography	Composition
Thursday	Mixed Media	Experimentation

Science Explorers Camp at Science City

At Science Explorers Camp in Science City, your child dives into an exhilarating world of discovery and hands-on experimentation.

They'll conduct exciting science experiments that spark curiosity and enhance critical thinking. Engaging with interactive exhibits, campers explore topics like physics, biology, and ecology while making new friends.

This camp offers a unique chance for young scientists to release their creativity and passion for learning!

Soccer Camp at Sporting Kansas City

After exploring the wonders of science, your child can kick their summer into high gear at Soccer Camp with Sporting Kansas City.

They'll learn valuable skills while having a blast!

Improve soccer techniques
Understand team strategy
Participate in fun drills
Make new friends
Enjoy a supportive environment

This camp is perfect for aspiring young athletes looking to elevate their game!

Dance Camp at the Kansas City Ballet

If your child dreams of twirling and leaping like a ballerina, the Dance Camp at the Kansas City Ballet is the perfect opportunity to explore that passion.

Your child will learn essential ballet techniques while engaging in creative expression. Each session focuses on building confidence and technique, allowing dancers of all levels to thrive in a joyful, supportive environment.

Outdoor Survival Camp at Shawnee Mission Park

At the Outdoor Survival Camp in Shawnee Mission Park, you'll gain essential survival skills that can spark a lifelong love for the outdoors.

Through hands-on nature exploration activities, you'll learn how to navigate, forage, and thrive in the wild.

Plus, team-building challenges will create lasting friendships as you work together to tackle exciting adventures.

Essential Survival Skills

Survival skills are crucial for young adventurers looking to thrive in the great outdoors, and there's no better place to learn them than at the Outdoor Survival Camp at Shawnee Mission Park.

You'll master essential survival techniques and wilderness preparedness with hands-on experiences, including:

Building shelters
Finding food
Fire-starting methods
Guiding using a map
First aid basics

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Nature Exploration Activities

As you immerse yourself in the world of nature exploration activities at the Outdoor Survival Camp, you'll discover the beauty and excitement that the great outdoors has to offer.

You'll practice wildlife tracking, honing your observation skills to spot animal signs, and engage in plant identification to learn about local flora.

Each activity deepens your connection with nature, making for an unforgettable experience.

Team Building Challenges

The Outdoor Survival Camp at Shawnee Mission Park offers exciting team-building challenges that encourage collaboration and communication among campers.

You'll engage in activities that enhance team dynamics and problem-solving skills through:

Trust exercises
Ice breaker games
Leadership activities
Creative teamwork tasks
Conflict resolution strategies

These collaborative games help you develop essential communication skills and effective group strategy for a memorable experience.

Cooking Camp at The Culinary Center of Kansas City

Have you ever wanted to whip up a delicious meal or impress your friends with culinary skills?

At The Culinary Center of Kansas City's cooking camp, you'll immerse yourself in essential cooking techniques and release your culinary creativity.

You'll learn to chop, sauté, and bake while having fun in a hands-on environment.

It's the perfect opportunity to develop lifelong skills and passion for cooking!

Robotics Camp at the Kansas City Public Library

At the Robotics Camp hosted by the Kansas City Public Library, kids immerse themselves in the exciting world of technology and innovation.

They tackle coding challenges and explore robotics innovations while engaging in activities like:

Building their own robots
Participating in teamwork exercises
Learning programming basics
Competing in fun challenges
Showcasing their projects

It's an amazing way to spark creativity and inspire the next generation!

Marine Biology Camp at the Oceans of Fun

At the Marine Biology Camp at Oceans of Fun, you'll enjoy a hands-on learning experience that brings the fascinating world of marine life to life.

You'll participate in engaging activities that let you explore the ocean's wonders while interacting with various species.

Get ready for an adventure that sparks your curiosity and passion for the ocean!

Hands-On Learning Experience

While exploring marine life can seem like an intimidating task, the Marine Biology Camp at Oceans of Fun makes it an exciting, hands-on learning experience for kids.

Participants plunge into:

Interactive exhibits that bring ocean life closer
Immersive workshops on marine ecosystems
Engaging activities promoting teamwork
Real-life experiments with marine specimens
Educational games reinforcing key concepts

Get ready for a splash of fun and discovery!

Marine Life Exploration Activities

Immerse yourself in the thrill of discovery as you explore marine life activities at the Marine Biology Camp at Oceans of Fun.

You'll engage in exciting adventures focused on ocean conservation, learning to protect our precious ecosystems.

Capture stunning underwater photography, revealing the beauty of aquatic life.

This camp not only educates but inspires a passion for preserving the ocean's wonders.

Join the adventure!

Theater Camp at the Coterie Theatre

Curious about a summer experience that blends creativity and fun?

Join the Theater Camp at the Coterie Theatre! Here, your child will explore:

Theater techniques
Character development
Improvisation skills
Ensemble collaboration
Script analysis

This camp offers a unique opportunity to foster imagination and confidence through performance while building lasting friendships.

Don't miss out on this incredible experience!

Nature Camp at the Missouri Botanical Garden

At Nature Camp at the Missouri Botanical Garden, your kids will get hands-on experience exploring the wonders of nature.

They'll engage in fun educational activities that spark their curiosity about plants and the environment.

It's a fantastic way for them to learn while making lasting memories!

Hands-On Nature Exploration

While many camps focus on traditional activities, the Nature Camp at the Missouri Botanical Garden offers a unique opportunity for kids to immerse themselves in hands-on exploration of the great outdoors.

Here, they'll engage in:

Nature scavenger hunts
Wildlife observation workshops
Plant identification
Bug collecting
Eco-friendly crafts

These activities inspire curiosity and a love for nature while fostering lifelong learning.

Educational Garden Activities

Whether you're looking to spark your child's interest in gardening or simply want them to enjoy the beauty of nature, the Nature Camp at the Missouri Botanical Garden offers a range of educational garden activities that enhance learning through play.

Kids immerse themselves in garden design and plant care, exploring the essential role of plants while cultivating their creativity and appreciation for the environment.

Gymnastics Camp at Great Plains Gymnastics

If your child dreams of tumbling, flipping, and mastering the balance beam, the Gymnastics Camp at Great Plains Gymnastics is the perfect summer destination.

They'll learn essential gymnastics techniques while enjoying numerous fitness benefits, including:

Increased strength
Improved flexibility
Enhanced coordination
Boosted confidence
Social interaction

Let your child experience the joy of gymnastics in a fun and supportive environment!

Music Camp at the Kansas City Symphony

If your child loves music, the Kansas City Symphony's Music Camp offers a fantastic chance to explore different instruments.

Kids can participate in hands-on activities that spark their creativity and passion for music.

Plus, they'll have exciting performance opportunities to showcase what they've learned!

Instrument Exploration Activities

While many summer camps offer fun activities, the Music Camp at the Kansas City Symphony stands out with its engaging Instrument Exploration Activities.

Here, kids immerse themselves in musical instrument exploration and sound creation activities like:

Hands-on experience with various instruments
Group jam sessions
Creative songwriting workshops
Interactive rhythm games
Storytelling through music

It's a fantastic way to spark your child's love for music!

Performance Opportunities Offered

At the Music Camp at the Kansas City Symphony, you'll find a variety of exciting performance opportunities designed to boost your child's confidence and showcase their musical talents.

Participants can engage in performance showcases and talent exhibitions, allowing them to share their progress with family and friends.

These events encourage teamwork and creativity, creating a memorable experience that nurtures their love for music.

Engineering Camp at the Discovery Center

Release your child's creativity and curiosity at the Engineering Camp at the Discovery Center, where young minds immerse themselves in hands-on activities that spark innovation.

Campers will tackle exciting engineering challenges and explore design thinking through:

Building structures
Coding robots
Creating prototypes
Conducting experiments
Collaborating on group projects

It's a fun and educational experience that inspires future engineers!

Horseback Riding Camp at Olathe Saddle Club

If your child is enthusiastic to connect with nature and learn new skills, the Horseback Riding Camp at Olathe Saddle Club offers an unforgettable experience.

Kids will immerse themselves in horse care, mastering grooming and feeding while developing riding techniques tailored to their skill level.

Your child will build confidence and make lasting friendships in a fun, supportive environment surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Archery Camp at the Kansas City Archery Club

Archery Camp at the Kansas City Archery Club promises an engaging and educational experience for kids enthusiastic to learn the art of archery.

Campers will discover essential skills, including:

Proper archery techniques
Effective aim and form
Fun archery challenges
Team-building activities
Safety practices for handling equipment

Your child will gain confidence while developing a lifelong appreciation for this exciting sport!

Film Camp at the Kansas City FilmFest

At the Kansas City FilmFest's Film Camp, you'll sharpen your filmmaking skills through hands-on experience.

You can participate in interactive workshops that spark your creativity and teach you the ins and outs of the film industry.

Whether you're a budding director or a future editor, this camp offers something exciting for everyone.

Filmmaking Skills Development

Release your creativity at the Film Camp hosted by the Kansas City FilmFest, where budding filmmakers can immerse themselves in the art of storytelling through the lens.

You'll gain valuable skills in:

Film editing techniques
Screenwriting techniques
Directing
Cinematography
Storyboarding

Join us to refine your craft and bring your unique vision to life!

Interactive Creative Workshops

How can you transform your filmmaking ideas into reality?

Join the Film Camp at the Kansas City FilmFest, where you'll plunge into interactive creative workshops.

You'll explore creative expression while honing your skills in scriptwriting, directing, and cinematography.

This hands-on experience not only fosters skill development but also ignites your passion for storytelling, guiding you toward becoming a confident filmmaker.

Sports Multi-Activity Camp at YMCA

When summer rolls around, the Sports Multi-Activity Camp at the YMCA becomes an exciting playground for kids enthusiastic to plunge into a variety of sports.

Here, your child will experience:

Team sports like basketball and soccer
Skill development through focused drills
Friendly competition to build confidence
Fun games that encourage teamwork
Lifelong friendships that last beyond summer

It's the perfect way to stay active!

Lego Building Camp at Bricks 4 Kidz

At the Lego Building Camp hosted by Bricks 4 Kidz, creativity comes to life as kids immerse themselves in the world of building and imagination.

You'll explore innovative building techniques, fueling your Lego creativity while crafting unique models.

With hands-on projects and collaborative challenges, this camp inspires teamwork and problem-solving skills, making every day an exciting adventure in construction and design.

Photography Camp at the Kansas City Art Institute

Capture the magic of the world around you at the Photography Camp hosted by the Kansas City Art Institute.

This exciting camp teaches you essential photography techniques and digital editing skills while you explore your creativity.

Here's what to look forward to:

Fun photography challenges
Hands-on editing sessions
Expert guidance
Group critiques
Portfolio development

Join in and discover your passion for photography!

STEM Camp at the Children's Museum

At the STEM Camp at the Children's Museum, you'll jump into exciting science activities that spark curiosity.

You'll engage in hands-on learning experiences that make complex concepts fun and accessible.

Plus, you'll tackle fun group challenges that encourage teamwork and creativity!

Engaging Science Activities

When you're looking for an exciting way to ignite your child's curiosity this summer, the STEM Camp at the Children's Museum offers a perfect blend of hands-on activities and scientific exploration.

Kids will thrive with:

Engaging science experiments
Interactive exhibits
Chemistry fun
Physics challenges
Astronomy nights

They'll immerse themselves in biology discoveries, coding activities, geology explorations, and math games, making learning an unforgettable adventure!

Hands-On Learning Experiences

Whether your child is a budding scientist or just loves to explore, the hands-on learning experiences at the STEM Camp at the Children's Museum are sure to spark their imagination. This interactive learning environment promotes experiential education, allowing kids to engage in exciting projects that ignite their curiosity.

Activity	Focus	Skills Developed
Robotics	Engineering & Coding	Problem-solving
Chemistry	Science Experiments	Critical thinking
Biology	Nature Exploration	Observation skills

Fun Group Challenges

Engaging in fun group challenges at the STEM Camp fosters teamwork and collaboration among kids.

They'll immerse themselves in exciting team challenges that spark creativity and critical thinking.

Here are some highlights:

Building bridge structures
Solving science puzzles
Coding a robot
Participating in design competitions
Competing in group experiments

These fun competitions not only educate but also create lasting friendships!

Wilderness Camp at the Campfire Outdoor Experience

If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure for your kids this summer, the Wilderness Camp at the Campfire Outdoor Experience is a fantastic choice. Your children will master wilderness skills while gathering around evening campfires, sharing thrilling campfire stories with new friends. This hands-on experience fosters teamwork, curiosity, and a love for nature.

Experience	Emotion
Learning skills	Excitement
Campfire tales	Nostalgia
New friendships	Happiness
Nature exploration	Wonder

Special Arts Camp at the Ability Tree

The Special Arts Camp at the Ability Tree offers a vibrant space where creativity flourishes and skills are nurtured.

Here, kids engage in meaningful artistic development through:

Visual arts activities
Music and dance sessions
Theatre performances
Collaborative projects
Workshops on creative expression

Children not only enhance their talents but also build friendships and confidence in a supportive environment.

Bake Shop Camp at the Sweet Academy

At the Bake Shop Camp in the Sweet Academy, young bakers can roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves in the delicious world of baking.

You'll learn essential baking techniques and develop impressive pastry skills while creating delightful treats.

From cookie decorating to cake baking, this hands-on camp guarantees fun and creativity, perfect for aspiring chefs enthusiastic to whip up sweet masterpieces!

History Camp at the National World War I Museum

After spending time creating delightful pastries at the Bake Shop Camp, take a journey back in time at the History Camp held at the National World War I Museum.

You'll plunge into fascinating experiences, including:

Historical reenactments
Guided museum tours
Interactive exhibits
Crafting war-era artifacts
Engaging discussions with historians

This camp offers a unique way to learn and explore history!

Final Thoughts

No matter your child's interests, Kansas City's summer camps offer a wealth of opportunities. From adventure and arts to science and sports, there's truly something for everyone. These enriching experiences not only spark creativity and curiosity but also help kids make lasting friendships. So, get ready for a summer filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories! Immerse yourself in the adventure and choose the perfect camp for your child's excitement and growth. Happy summer exploring!