During the warmer months, Manhattan has no shortage of activities to get your kids outside and spark their lifelong appreciation for the great outdoors. But did you know even when the Manhattan weather turns cold just as much fun can be found indoors? Regardless of sun, rain or snow, escape indoors with the kids to explore these attractions, no coat required.
1. Flint Hills Discovery Center
The Flint Hills Discovery Center is located in downtown Manhattan in the Blue Earth Plaza. The center serves as a tribute to the 10,000 square miles of tallgrass prairie that we call the Flint Hills. The three-story structure is filled with opportunities to learn for all. On the lower floor learn all about the striking Flint Hills. Explore the bones and fossils belonging to the giant creatures that once roamed the Earth at Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed, their temporary exhibit on the second floor. Plus be sure to visit their newly remodeled Prairie Playscape on the second floor as well! Find their hours of operation here.
2. Leap
Looking for some full-fledged unabated fun for families and friends? Check out Leap on the next chilly day. Leap is Manhattan's only trampoline park complete with bowling lanes, an arcade and a full-service bar for the parents! With so many different things to do, Leap is a great place to run off some pent-up energy while having tons of fun! They are located at 3011 Anderson Ave.
3. Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum
The Wonder Workshop Children's Museum is a non-profit hands-on learning museum offering interactive play and learning spaces for children and their families through various indoor and outdoor educational programs and activities in the arts, sciences, and humanities. Located at 506 S. 4th Street, The Wonder Workshop wants to instill a desire for life long learning, foster the appreciation of cultural diversity, and cultivate creative potential in each visitor.
4. Midwest Dream Car Collection
The Midwest Dream Car Collection is a unique collection of more than 75 vehicles. Find muscle cars, customs, exotics, classics and more in the collection. Learn about the story of each vehicle as you travel the floor. The Midwest Dream Car Collection is always hosting events like guest lectures, kid's studios and feature car talks. Learn more about their exhibits here.
5. MHK Play Studio
Grounded in the principles of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), MHK Play Studio offers so many ways for children to learn through play. Open play, structured classes, camps, and corporate retreats, and just a few of the options at MHK Play Studio to promote and inspire play for all ages, abilities and needs. Akin to children’s museums (but more fun); similar to indoor playgrounds (with more structure); comparable to your favorite coffee shop (with more space for the littles to roam): MHK Play Studio strives to be a place that fosters community, connection and creativity.
Come visit Manhattan and experience one of these five fun indoor activities perfect for winter weather. Which activity will you try first?
