Valentine’s Day With Kids in Kansas City: Family-Friendly Ideas for 2026

Valentine’s Day looks a little different once kids enter the picture — and honestly, that doesn’t make it worse. It just makes it fuller. Instead of rushing to find a sitter or squeezing in a late dinner reservation, Valentine’s weekend can become a chance to slow down and celebrate love in a way that includes the people you’re building life with every day.

If you’re spending Valentine’s weekend in Kansas City with kids, there are some really lovely ways to make it feel special without overcomplicating things. Whether you want to get out of the house, stay cozy indoors, or do a little of both, here are some family-friendly ideas for Valentine’s weekend 2026.

KC Love at Union Station (February 13–15, 2026)

Union Station already has a way of feeling special the moment you walk in, and Valentine’s weekend only adds to that. KC Love is a multi-day event held inside Union Station that brings together local vendors, handmade goods, treats, and Valentine-themed displays all in one beautiful, historic space.

This is such an easy outing with kids because everything is indoors, walkable, and visually interesting. You can wander at your own pace, stop for snacks, browse booths, and let the kids take it all in without feeling rushed. There are also plenty of natural spots for casual family photos — between the architecture and seasonal decor, it’s the kind of place where memories tend to happen without trying too hard.

If February weather is doing what February weather does, this is one of those events that feels like a win for everyone.

Sweetheart Run 5K and Kids Fun Run (Saturday, February 14)

If your kids have energy to burn — or you just like the idea of starting Valentine’s Day on a positive, active note — the Sweetheart Run in Overland Park is a fun local tradition. The event includes a 5K, a 10K, and a kids’ fun run designed especially for younger runners.

Even if your family isn’t made up of serious runners, this can still be a great experience. The kids’ race is short, festive, and comes with medals, which somehow makes everything feel more official. It’s one of those moments that sticks with kids because it feels like an event, not just another thing on the calendar.

And yes — it’s also a great excuse for a few finish-line photos aaaannnd a treat afterwards!

Science City: A Winter-Friendly Favorite

If you want something flexible that works anytime over Valentine’s weekend, Science City inside Union Station is always a solid choice. It’s hands-on, interactive, and works well for a wide range of ages, which is especially helpful if you’re juggling different interests in one family.

This was one of our FAVORITE outings when the kids were small. We still love it, life just keeps getting busier! All the more reason to carve out time and enjoy. 

Science City pairs beautifully with the KC Love event, whether you make a full day of it or just pop in for a couple of hours. And from a memory-making standpoint, these are the kinds of outings where the best photos happen naturally — kids fully absorbed, laughing, experimenting, and being completely themselves.

A Simple Valentine’s Family Photo Scavenger Hunt

If you want to add something a little more personal to your weekend, a family photo scavenger hunt is such a fun (and low-pressure) way to do it. This doesn’t need to be elaborate or perfectly planned. A short list of prompts and a willingness to wander is more than enough.

You might include things like:
a big family smile near a mural,
the silliest sibling pose you can capture,
everyone holding their favorite Valentine treat,
or a group photo somewhere iconic like Union Station or the Plaza.

You can do this downtown, on the Plaza, or even around your own neighborhood if the weather cooperates. The goal isn’t perfect photos — it’s giving yourselves a reason to slow down and notice the season you’re in. These candid, in-between moments are often the ones families treasure most later.

A Kansas City–Style Valentine’s Date Night at Home

After a day of activities, sometimes the most romantic plan is staying in. A Valentine’s date night at home can still feel special — especially when you bring in great local takeout. Make it a family movie night where you don’t have to do the cooking! 

For Italian comfort food, Carmen’s Cafe is a favorite. Their menu feels cozy and celebratory at the same time, and it’s perfect for sharing around the table.

If you’re craving something fresh and flavorful, Meddy’s is a wonderful option. Mediterranean dishes are easy to mix and match, and it’s a great choice when you want something lighter without sacrificing flavor.

For classic Kansas City barbecue, Jack Stack Barbecue is always a win. Whether you pick up from the Freight House location or the Plaza, it’s one of those meals that feels like a treat without needing to dress up or go anywhere special.

And if you want something a little different, Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine is perfect for a cozy night in. It’s especially nice once the kids are winding down and the adults want something comforting with a little warmth and spice.

Set it up picnic-style in the living room, light a candle or two, put on a family movie, and let the evening be simple.

Love, Actually

Valentine’s Day with kids doesn’t have to compete with the version you had before parenthood. It’s just a different chapter — one that’s full of connection, laughter, and love that looks a little louder and a lot more real.

Kansas City offers so many ways to make Valentine’s weekend meaningful without overdoing it. And whether you’re out exploring or staying home together, these are the seasons worth remembering.

Want to plan for a Spring family sessions to capture the connections you work so well to build? I’m here for it!