Special Event
Kids Activities
Family Friendly
Free Admission
Parade of Playhouses at Union Station
Tour imaginative student-built playhouses, enjoy a free family stop in Haverty Family Yards, and browse the live auction supporting Science City.
📅 Foundations for the Future Week: April 6–12, 2026
📍 Union Station Kansas City, Haverty Family Yards, 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108
🎟 Cost to view: Free during regular Science City hours
Image: Deposit Photos
Why Families and Bidders Love This Event
- 🏠 See a collection of one-of-a-kind student-built playhouses in one place.
- 🎨 Enjoy creative themes that can include whimsical cottages, cabins, shops, forts and adventure-inspired designs.
- 🛠 Learn more about the craftsmanship and teamwork involved in local career and technical education programs.
- 💚 Support Science City when you place a bid in the auction.
- 📍 Pair your visit with a Union Station outing for a fun Kansas City family stop.
2026 Participating Schools and Career Programs
This year’s event features work from Kansas City area high schools and career centers. Participating programs listed by organizers include:
- Basehor-Linwood High School
- Bonner Springs High School
- Excelsior Springs Area Career Center
- Grandview High School
- Independence School District
- Liberty High School
- Northland Career Center
- Olathe Public Schools Construction Technology Academy
- Olathe North High School
- Spring Hill High School
How the Playhouse Auction Works
After viewing the display, interested buyers can place bids online for their favorite playhouses. The auction gives families, businesses and supporters a chance to take home a unique structure while helping fund Science City programming.
The auction is scheduled to close on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM. If you are thinking about bidding, it is smart to browse the entries early and watch the closing time closely.
Past Winners and Event Highlights
Past Parade of Playhouses showcases have featured standout builds recognized for creativity, craftsmanship and innovative design. Previous honors have included awards such as Pick of the Parade, Best Innovation, Best Craftsmanship and Distinctive Plan & Design.
That award history adds an extra layer of fun for visitors, since each structure on display reflects a mix of student imagination, school pride and practical building skill.
Location
FAQs for Visiting the Parade of Playhouses
Is the Parade of Playhouses free to visit?
Yes. The outdoor display in Haverty Family Yards is free to the public during regular Science City hours.
Where is the event held?
The playhouses are displayed at Union Station Kansas City in the Haverty Family Yards outdoor area.
Can families go inside the playhouses?
The display is generally intended for viewing rather than active play, so check on-site signage and event guidance while visiting.
Who builds the playhouses?
Kansas City area high school students in construction and manufacturing programs create the playhouses as part of hands-on learning and workforce development.
What does the auction support?
According to event organizers, auction proceeds benefit Science City.
Location
Plan Your Visit
If you want a free family outing with a creative Kansas City twist, this is an easy event to add to your week. You can stop by to admire the builds, talk about the designs with your kids, and even follow the auction if one of the playhouses catches your eye.
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