North of the river in Kansas City, you’ll find a variety of excellent city parks that offer a wide range of amenities and outdoor activities. These parks are popular among both residents and visitors, providing opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and community engagement. Here are some of the best parks to take your family in Kansas City:

1. English Landing Park: Located in Parkville, English Landing Park is a beautiful riverside park along the Missouri River. It features walking and biking trails, a scenic riverfront promenade, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is known for its stunning views of the river and the iconic Parkville Nature Sanctuary bridge. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

2. Platte Purchase Park: Platte Purchase Park in Kansas City, North, offers a peaceful and natural environment for outdoor activities. The park has walking trails, a disc golf course, and plenty of open green space. It’s an excellent place for a game of frisbee, a casual hike, or birdwatching.

3. Frank Vaydik Park: Located in Riverside, Frank Vaydik Park is a neighborhood park with playgrounds, sports fields, and open spaces for recreational activities. It’s a community hub where residents often gather for games, picnics, and family events.

4. Penguin Park: Penguin Park, situated in Kansas City, North, is a favorite among families. This whimsical park features large concrete animal sculptures, including penguins, a kangaroo, and a seal. There are playgrounds, a gazebo, and shaded areas, making it an ideal spot for kids to play and for parents to relax.

5. Waterworks Park: Waterworks Park is a serene and picturesque park in Kansas City, North, with a large lake. The park provides opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and nature walks. The well-maintained trails are perfect for a peaceful stroll and birdwatching. The park’s scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a great escape from the city.

6. Macken Park: Located in North Kansas City, Macken Park is a well-rounded city park offering sports facilities, a playground, picnic areas, and a community center. The park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, making it a vibrant and active hub for the community.

7. Platte Ridge Park: Platte Ridge Park, situated in Platte City, is known for its sprawling landscapes and excellent sports facilities. The park has baseball and soccer fields, walking trails, and a fishing pond. It’s an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

8. Line Creek Park: Line Creek Park is located in Kansas City, North, and offers a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park features a lake for fishing and walking trails for leisurely strolls. There’s also a disc golf course for those who enjoy this sport.

9. Happy Rock Park: Happy Rock Park, found in Gladstone, is a lovely city park with a picturesque lake at its center. The park has walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The lake is ideal for fishing, and the park is named after a distinctive rock formation within its boundaries.

10. Smithville Lake Park: Although Smithville Lake is primarily known for its recreational opportunities, the surrounding park areas offer excellent amenities for visitors. The park features picnic areas, a marina, and campgrounds. It’s a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the lake and its surroundings.

11. Hidden Valley Park: Hidden Valley Park, located in Liberty, offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, playgrounds, and sports fields. It’s a family-friendly park with a community center that hosts activities and programs throughout the year.

These city parks north of the river in Kansas City are some of the most unique parks to take your family; they provide a wide range of outdoor experiences and are great places for residents and visitors to enjoy nature, engage in recreational activities, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a scenic riverside location, a serene natural environment, or a park with various amenities, you’ll find something to suit your preferences in this region.