It's Child's Play!

Although Lawrence has a long history, this community is young at heart. Proof is in the many activities available for children throughout the area.

Lawrence is home to the KU Museum of Natural History, which features live bees in a working hive, live fish and snakes as well as many fossils of dinosaurs, mammals, reptiles and fish. The museum offers educational programs and classes for children and adults, year-round.

For the nature-loving kid, check out Prairie Park Nature Center. Located in the 71-acre Prairie Park adjacent to seven acres of virgin prairie, with 180 species of wildflowers and native grasses, Prairie Park Nature Center will entertain and educate visitors. There is a visitor center with exhibits, and guests can explore more than a mile of trails which pass through prairie and wetlands that lead to a seven-acre urban lake. Interpretive signs along the trail point out habitat elements to be observed and identify wildlife in the park.

If it's water fun you're longing for, visit either of the Lawrence aquatic centers. The Outdoor Aquatic Center is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and the Indoor Aquatic Center is open year-round. Both feature a lap swimming area, diving wells and family pool areas. Kids love the water slides, fountains and floating play devices. The zero-depth entry makes the pools a perfect choice for fun-lovers of all ages.

Lawrence is also home to more than 50 public parks with recreation equipment and picnic sites.