Every October brings the expectation of a great Halloween, especially in places like Kansas City where the fun crosses over from Missouri to Kansas and places in between. Geared for young adults and couples, Kansas City haunted houses and spooky fun outfright most of the competition.
Adults, don’t overlook the city’s one-night-only costume parties, bar fights, or the Edge of Hell and The Beast (two amazing haunts), which are highlighted on local events websites.
There are, however, plenty of other options for Halloween family fun… But why wait until October 31st when you can celebrate as a family from mid-September on? Let’s go!
Low Freak Outs at Worlds of Fun & Around Kansas City, Missouri
While Kansas City may not be known for its heart-stopping thrills, the city offers plenty of fun family activities that won’t leave you screaming. From family-friendly amusement parks to historical sites and museums, Kansas City caters to those seeking entertainment without the adrenaline rush. Let’s explore some low-key options perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Worlds of Fun
Little ones can have a fun “haunt” without all the fear at Great Pumpkin Fest, the G-rated part of Halloween Haunt at Worlds of Fun. They promise “all treats and no tricks” in Planet Snoopy, so your tiny travelers will have a blast. Halloween isn’t scary when you’re surrounded by your favorite lovable Peanuts characters.
Saturday and Sunday are dedicated to kid celebrations from mid-September through the weekend prior to Halloween. Take time for the kids to enjoy play zones, the Count Snooptacula costume contests, and dance parties in Spooky Planet Snoopy with Charlie Brown. For braver youngsters, there’s entertainment around every corner in the hay bale maze, a real Kansas City treat.
Kansas City Haunted Houses
photo: Worlds of fun
Worlds of Fun welcomes active, retired, and veteran military families with a big discount. Why would you need the military on-site? Well, we heard that after sundown — about 6:30 at this time of year — the place goes wild (and gets scarier!)
They claim that the Adults’ Halloween Haunt is the Midwest’s largest haunted attraction. Defy the more than 400 costumed characters making the 235-acre theme park a positive misery. Experience the fog-shrouded lanes packed with thrill rides at this Kansas Halloween event running select Thursday to Sunday nights.
Fight your way through the crowds of monsters, zombies, and freaks lurking in the shadows. Ages 14+ should get ready for super scary mazes, scare zones, and live shows with plenty of scary entertainment. Locals love it because the park closes seasonally in September, and then reopens for the holiday.
Halloween Family Fun in and around Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City and its surrounding areas transform into a haven of Halloween-themed fun, offering a wide range of activities suitable for all ages.
Kansas City Zoo
photo: Tripadvisor
Kansas City Zoo is home to 1,500 animals from around the world. On the last weekend in October, tour the several Trick or Treat stations set up for kids of all ages. The Zoo hosts games, fun, and entertainment included in regular admission tickets. Families can try the Pumpkin Toss, visit the Haunted Woods of the Valley, a Jack-o-Lantern display, ride the Scarecrow Train Express, see a “spooky” animal show, and much more.
Legoland Kansas City
Go for a Brick-or-Treat Monster Party adventure at LEGOLAND Kansas City. The Lego mega-store is packed with Lego kits and attractions, some themed to fall. Work with Lego master builders, go on a haunted scavenger hunt, and enjoy other special fall season activities. New Lego monsters who starred in the 4-D Movie greet kids and teach fun dances. Don’t miss the fun Kingdom Quest mini-coaster where you can help good guys take the day!
John Wornall House
The ca. 1858 John Wornall House (at the Wornalls/Majors House Museums) is an edutaining option, with many seasonal events on weekends. Designed for guests of varying ages, choose between Paranormal House tours, scavenger hunts, cider drinking, talks on death during Victorian times, and much more.
Gentle Frights and Farm Style Freak Outs in KC, Kansas
photo: Visit Overland Park
Visit the unique Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, a planned community dating back to 1905, at 138th and Switzer in nearby Overland Park, Kansas. It opens each spring and continues with family programming and special fall attractions through October 31 each year.
The Pumpkin Hollow patch opens all of October. Ride the horse-drawn wagon to and from the pumpkin patch, where each person can take home a pumpkin of their choosing. Kids can also enjoy several other farm activities including a hay maze, climbing a hay pyramid, playing in a “corn” box, sliding down a hay slide, or racing pumpkin boats.
Join their Night of the Living Farm for pumpkins, old-fashioned lanterns, and trick or treating. Held over four nights on the last two weekends before Halloween, families can explore a haunted barn, and haunted horse-drawn hayride, hear from a fortune teller, and enjoy a marshmallow roast.
Kids and train aficionados alike will love the Pumpkin Express Train Rides from the historic Belton, Grandview, and Kansas City Railroad. The end of the line features Halloween games and pumpkins for sale after de-boarding the 1920s-era passenger coach or open-air excursion car.
Safely Sleeping… Not in Kansas City Haunted Houses
Need a Kansas City hotel discount? We stayed on the Missouri side at the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center on a recent visit. It’s convenient to all sorts of family fun including Kansas City haunted houses and even has a great big heated pool. Hail an Uber, widely used throughout the region, if you don’t want to rent a car or are afraid of being chased by zombies. For more scary activities, ask the friendly folks at VisitKC, the tourism office that publishes its blog of KC Fright Night Activities.
Want even more Halloween ideas for kids around the country? See our round-up of what’s going on for Halloween this year.
Looking for more hotels in Kansas? Check out our post on the Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City.
Share your favorite Kansas City haunted houses and Halloween fun events in the Comments section below!
Tips for a Smooth and Spooky Halloween Adventure
You’ve found the perfect events, now let’s make sure your Halloween outing is a success! Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when planning your family’s Kansas City Halloween:
Beat the Crowds
Popular Halloween events, especially those on weekends, can get busy. Arrive early to snag good parking spots and avoid long lines. Consider buying tickets online in advance if the option is available.
Dress for the Weather
Kansas City weather in October can be unpredictable. Dress your little ghosts and goblins in costumes that allow for layering. Warm sweaters under superhero suits or extra tights under a princess dress can make a big difference on a chilly night.
Have a Backup Plan
Even the best-laid plans can be foiled by rain. Have an indoor alternative in mind, like a fun children’s museum or a kid-friendly movie screening, just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Snacks and Supplies
Pack water bottles and some snacks to keep everyone fueled for the festivities. A few glow sticks for after-dark never hurt either!
Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to snap plenty of photos of your costumed crew having a blast. Remember those goofy grins and spooky adventures forever!
Bonus Tip: Check local event websites or Facebook pages for any specific parking tips and discounts they might offer for their Halloween events.
Ready for Halloween in Kansas City?
We hope these tips help your family have a safe and memorable Halloween in Kansas City.
Please note that it’s always best to visit the official website of each attraction for the most up-to-date information on prices, operating hours, and special events, as these details can change frequently. This will ensure you have the most accurate information for planning your visit and making the most of your Halloween experience in Kansas City.
Have a Hauntingly Good Time!
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