If you’re anything like me, you’re no stranger to FOMO (fear of missing out). Sometimes during a lazy weekend at home, I find myself Googling “events in Kansas City this weekend” in an attempt to find some family entertainment that will get us out of the house for a while. Sometimes, despite my internet searches, I’ll find out about an event after the fact—in which case, I’m always pretty disappointed that I missed out.
In particular, I’m usually on the lookout for toddler or baby-friendly events, restaurants, and activities—especially on the weekends, which is when my two-year-old tends to get a little stir crazy. Since my internet searches don’t always cut it, I recently started following some Instagram accounts that have the inside scoop on all things that have to do with maximizing family fun in Kansas City. If you have kids, these Instagram accounts are sure to help you stay in-the-know—and perhaps more importantly, squelch that FOMO for good:
- @kcmomsblog – I’m going to go ahead and come in hot with a shameless plug. Our Kansas City Mom Collective’s Instagram is a great resource for upcoming events and general family-friendly fun things to do around the city. If you’re feeling festive, this account is especially good at sharing seasonal things to do—I’m lookin’ at you, apple picking farms and pumpkin patches.
- @unionstationkc – Particularly if you have school-age children, following KC’s Union Station on Instagram will keep you up-to-date on all the cool exhibits, cultural activities, events and entertainment held at this historic 1914 Kansas City landmark.
- @abusybeeinkc – This Instagram account not only posts about local fun things to do for toddlers—such as toddler-friendly pools and playdate spots—but also includes toddler activities that can be done at home, such as craft inspiration or ideas for sensory play. This is a great all-encompassing account to follow for all things that have to do with entertaining small children.
- @kclocalevents – This account is a bit more broad—it covers local events, shopping, food and drinks. Since it covers local hot spots more broadly, it is good for keeping an eye not only on kid-friendly activities, but also activities ideal for date nights or time out with friends. The account covers everything from spelling bees to local boutiques, restaurant recommendations and beer fests. Whether you’re looking for something to do with your littles or hoping for an adults-only night out, this is a great place to scout out ideas.
Speaking of date nights: I know can’t be the only one who draws a blank almost every time it comes time to pick a restaurant for date night. I often notice new restaurants when I’m out and about that pique my interest, but almost never remember to write them down. Here are three quick local foodie Instagram accounts that offer great restaurant suggestions for every occasion. I’ve enjoyed browsing these accounts for our next date idea, and will definitely be using them the next time we get the chance to go out together:
Social media certainly has its drawbacks, but I’ve enjoyed the perks that come with following local accounts that take the leg work out of planning fun activities to enjoy with my family. Personally, I’m looking forward to lots of fun, festive activities this fall—sans the pre-game internet research.
