You don’t need major funds to have fun in Kansas City; just look at these affordable activities.

We promise these free things to do are more than just an aimless walk in the park. Instead, we’re making sure you get well-researched, unique suggestions worth the trip.

Out on the town

Explore stops along the KC Streetcar | Take up the mantle of urban adventurer by hopping on and off the free public transportation to discover unique trails, pocket parks, and murals.

Dog Day Out Program | Give adoptable dogs a break from the shelter — we already have a few pup-approved ideas to choose from.

Arts + education

Kansas City Public Library | The modern library card is powerful. Beyond books, you can check out board games, musical instruments, plants at its propagation station — plus, we always recommend a game of larger-then-life chess on the Central Branch's rooftop.

The Money Museum | At the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, guests can peep millions being made in real time, lift a gold bar worth ~$400,000, and walk away with a free souvenir bag of shredded U.S. currency.

Art museums + all they entail | Both the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Arts and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offer free admission, plus a line-up of no-cost activities like the Nelson's free festival lineup.

Outdoors

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens | Enjoy free admission every first Tuesday of the month at this scenic garden with 1,700+ species of plants.

Lakeside Nature Center | Branch out at one of Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation facilities and meet animal ambassadors from the Southern Flying Squirrel to "Cheetoh," the American Kestrel raptor.

Kauffman Memorial Garden | Stroll through Theis Park + Brush Creek to wind up at this botanical wonderland, curated with native and exotic plants — a favorite of City Editor Maddie. (Plus, say "hi" to the orangery's live-in cat).

For kids

Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead | Parents + grandparents, put away your moo-la. Watch a live milking demonstration, fish in the pond, pan for gold, and let your kids bottle feed baby goats for free 2 p.m. to close, Monday through Thursday.

Kaleidoscope | Children are invited to unleash their inner artist with independent art sessions featuring bows, cardboard, melted crayons and more, from the minds behind Hallmark.

Union Station Model Train Gallery | Adults will have just as much fun as their kiddos exploring this tucked-away room featuring 8,000-sqft of jaw-dropping exhibition space — which nearly doubles every year during the winter holidays.

Did we miss your favorite freebie? Let us know + we'll update our guide.