Kansas City’s Winter Wonderland

When temperatures drop in Kansas City and the first few snowflakes fall, the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland. From the colorful lights that illuminate the Country Club Plaza to the icy activities that make the cold weather fun, the wintry magic lasts longer than the 12 days of Christmas. So, when winter arrives, let this be a brief guide to some of the best things to do in Kansas City.

The winter fun starts with taking in the beauty at Country Club Plaza. Each year, the plaza shops are lit up from head to toe in bright Christmas lights. But that’s not the only thing that makes it a winter wonderland. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets on a December evening. It all makes for a holiday scene fit for the movies. 

For more upbeat winter fun, head to Crown Center in downtown Kansas City. Not only is it beautiful throughout the year, but during winter it's home to the best ice-skating in the area. Take a couple of trips around the rink! Then, cozy up next to the 100-foot-tall Christmas tree with a cup of hot chocolate in hand. Or, spend the day skiing at Snow Creek, just a short drive northwest of Kansas City.

But there are other spots in Kansas City with less traditional Christmastime fun. Head to the Kansas City Zoo to see the snow-dusted exhibits. It’s the best time of the year to see penguin and polar bear exhibits. And if you’re looking for some grub, don’t miss Restaurant Week that happens every year in January. 

So, now that you know some of the best winter wonderlands in Kansas City, all you need is some snow to get the fun started.