Photo: Taylor Hunt
Photo: Hunter Shoptaw
Photo: Chris Wee
Park University
★4.2(91 reviews)FreeActivity
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age children and teens will appreciate the beautiful architecture and can grasp the historical significance of the campus, while the open grounds work well for younger kids who need room to explore.🧡 Saved by 10 families
About
Park University's picturesque campus in Parkville offers families a peaceful setting for educational walks and exploration. The stunning Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel is an architectural gem that fascinates curious kids, while the expansive historic grounds provide plenty of space for children to stretch their legs and enjoy the beautiful Missouri River bluff scenery.
Highlights
- ✓Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel with stunning architecture
- ✓Historic campus buildings dating back to 1875
- ✓Scenic walking paths with Missouri River views
- ✓Beautiful grounds perfect for family photos
- ✓Educational opportunity to introduce kids to college campuses
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit the Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel first,it's the crown jewel of campus and makes for great photos with kids
- 2.Park near the chapel area for easiest access to the most scenic parts of campus without excessive walking
- 3.Bring a camera or sketchbook for older kids interested in architecture or drawing
- 4.The campus is quieter during summer months when classes aren't in session, making it easier to explore with children
- 5.Combine your visit with exploring historic downtown Parkville, just minutes away
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons or early evenings offer the most peaceful campus experience. Spring and fall provide the most beautiful scenery with blooming flowers or colorful foliage, plus comfortable walking weather.
What to Know
The campus is free to explore during open hours. Parking is readily available on campus. Restroom facilities may be limited outside regular business hours, so plan accordingly before your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Campus is closed Saturdays and Sundays. Best visited in spring and fall for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Check the university calendar for special events, performances, or campus activities that families might enjoy during certain times of year.
Nearby Eats
Downtown Parkville (less than a mile away) offers family-friendly options like Cafe des Amis for casual dining or Parkville Coffee for quick snacks and treats after your campus exploration.
More Activities Near Parkville
Activity
Main Street
Free
Historic Main Street in Parkville offers a delightful step back in time with its beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings housing charming shops, ice cream parlors, and family-friendly restaurants. Kids love exploring the quaint storefronts, discovering unique toys and treats in the boutiques, and enjoying the walkable, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere that feels like visiting a storybook town.
Farm
Shatto Milk Company
★4.4$❤️79
Shatto Milk Company offers an authentic farm experience where kids can see where their milk really comes from. This working dairy farm features educational tours that walk families through the milk production process, from cows to bottle, and you can purchase their famous fresh milk in glass bottles to take home. It's a hands-on learning adventure that combines agriculture education with delicious dairy treats.
Restaurant
Carolyn's Essenhaus
$❤️10
Carolyn's Essenhaus brings authentic German comfort food to Parkville with a family-friendly twist that keeps kids happy and parents satisfied. The family-style meal service means everyone can try a little of everything, from hearty schnitzels to fluffy German pancakes, making it perfect for picky eaters and adventurous little foodies alike. The welcoming, casual atmosphere means you can relax while the kids enjoy generous portions of kid-approved favorites.
Park
English Landing Park
★4.7Free❤️235
English Landing Park is a riverside gem that offers everything families need for a perfect outdoor day. With a popular splash pad for cooling off, an engaging playground, scenic walking trails along the Missouri River, and plenty of open space for picnics and play, this park consistently ranks as one of Parkville's most beloved family destinations.