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Things To Do
Day Trips for the Whole Family
Planning a day of family fun can pose a household challenge, but Miami County makes that easier by offering great food, recreational activities and deep historical roots within easy driving distances. Options include opportunities for action-packed days, lazy trips to relax or a blend of the two.
Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory and Nature Center
Lions, tigers and leopards are just the start. Take a tour of the endangered large cats available for public viewing at this feline sanctuary near Louisburg that educates the public on the behaviors, habitats and dangers of extinction. What could be better than a mini–Jungle Book adventure?
A classic option, The Drive-In shows new releases and double features April through December. Families pile in their car or spread-out tailgate style to enjoy the night’s entertainment complete with a traditional playground and concession stand. The Drive-In also hosts MidWay Flea Markets and special events seasonally. Located (midway) between Paola and Osawatomie.
Even little ones can help solve the puzzles and riddles to crack the code and break free in 60 minutes. With two themed rooms to choose from, Enigma 68 in Louisburg offers an interactive gaming experience for the entire family.
This museum, located inside John Brown Memorial Park, provides exhibits in two rooms of the 1854 Adair cabin along with displays outside. Browse objects that tell the story of John Brown and the 1856 Battle of Osawatomie as well as a collection of Civil War weapons.
This 80-acre farm provides lots of space for year-round activities that range from a corn maze, pumpkin patch, pony rides and more. The Cider Mill is a well-known regional destination with a national reputation for everything apple – regular and hard apple cider, apple donuts, apple butter and more.
Miami County Historical Museum
Packed full of artifacts, the museum in Paola offers several hands-on, interactive exhibits to engage young minds. The Indian Room offers a full wall display of arrowheads; and the room’s full-size tipi is a particular highlight.
The Osawatomie History Museum shares the community’s history including their storied railroad past, the evolution of the Osawatomie State Hospital and the community as it was pre-Civil War.
It’s the reason we all scream for ice cream! Satisfy your sweet tooth with 22 varieties of ice cream in shakes, sundaes, malts, floats, cups and cones topped with homemade toppings. Dozens of flavors of organic cotton candy and Pop’s fresh homemade fudge is also available.
View the galaxy through one of the largest telescopes available for public viewing in a five-state area. Located in Louisburg, educational displays and public telescopes are offered. The public can track upcoming events via the ASKC Facebook page.
Rockers Pharmacy Soda Fountain
I-C-E C-R-E-A-M. The only soda fountain in Miami County serving old-fashioned phosphates, milkshakes, the famous brown cow and specialty candies is in Paola.
S&S offers private rides, riding lessons, group rides and mini or day camps. An indoor riding arena provides different challenges from games, obstacles, barrels and more to teach riders how to control a horse. Located near Hillsdale Lake, the rides offer great seasonal views of the area. Families will love the relaxed atmosphere with quality bonding time.
Combining a wide-open playing field with the strategy of a video game, paintball offers an energic outing that can also include self-defense techniques. Gear, apparel and accessories available for rent or purchase at the Osawatomie site.
Wildwood Outdoor Education Center
Known primarily as a summer camp for youth, it's easy to see how their facilities help “Kids Grow Better Outside.” Cabins, trails and a lake dot the 150-acre property. Team-building activities and private events are conducted during the off season.