Animal Adventures in KCMO

Lions and tigers and bears… Oh there’s never a better time to get up close and personal with furry friends, slimy friends, flying friends and more than during the spring and summer seasons. The weather is gorgeous, the animals are playful and the time is right to head to the zoo, the aquarium, the animal sanctuary- you name it! If you are looking for animal encounters this spring, you’ve come to the right place.

Kansas City is an ideal location for animal activities because there are simply so many spaces where you can engage. From zoos to sanctuaries, animal havens are peppered throughout the city, each offering unique ways to interact with and learn about animals. From slithering snakes to roaring lions, animals can be observed in a variety of habitats, each unique to a specific species, all around the Kansas City area. If you’re planning a trip to KCMO this summer, add these great spaces to your itinerary.

Where to interact with animals in Kansas City 2025

• Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium- This 202-acre animal sanctuary was originally founded in 1907 with a dozen animals and a handful of birds. More than 100 years later, this expansive animal haven is home to animals around the world and is an exciting place to learn about animals and wildlife from seasoned professionals. 
• Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, Overland Park- For just $5 per person, visitors to this outdoor, historic place can engage with and feed multiple kinds of farm animals. Feed the goats, milk the cows, fish in the pond. Kids of all ages will love these engaging activities that enable them to learn about these animals and interact with them in a safe and fun way. 
• Sea Life Kansas City- Take a walk through Kansas City’s only ocean tunnel. Interact with endangered sea turtles. Touch a sea star. Check out the beautiful jellyfish tank. These are just a few of the exciting activities that await at Sea Life Kansas City. Located at the Crown Center, Sea Life Kansas City is a unique under the sea adventure you won’t want to miss!
• Cedar Cove Conservation and Education Center- Twenty-six animals in the cat family currently call this space home, and you can tour this spot with a tour guide on Saturdays and Sundays. Learn about the dangers threatening these predators as well as conservation efforts put forth by this animal center. From lions to wolves and bobcats to foxes, big cats are fascinating creatures guests of all ages will love seeing up close. 
• YaYa’s Alpaca Farm- Located 45 minutes south of Kansas City, YaYa’s alpaca farm is a must for those who love interacting with unique animals. Book a tour at this spot Tuesday through Sunday and be prepared for each tour to take between one and two hours. You’ll get plenty of time to interact with the alpacas and snap some great photos to share with family and friends. 

Kansas City area business spotlight

When your travels take you to the Kansas City area, consider a stop at Trailside RV Center and Park in Grain Valley. Located east of Kansas City, Trailside RV has all the campers and RVs you want at the prices you will love. This dealer is your one-stop shop for all your RV needs so you can get on the road and on with your adventures in no time.