What to Do Near Betty Rae’s in River Market with Kids

What to Do Near Betty Rae’s in River Market with Kids!

If you’re planning a stop at Betty Rae’s in River Market, you’re already halfway to a really fun family outing. Ice cream has a way of getting everyone out the door, but if you’re coming to River Market with kids, there’s no reason to make dessert the only event. One of the best things about this part of Kansas City is how easy it is to turn a quick treat run into a full family adventure. River Market is compact, walkable, and full of energy, which means it works beautifully for parents who want to get out of the house without overcomplicating the day.

So if you’ve found yourself searching what to do near Betty Rae’s in River Market with kids, here’s how to make the most of it.

Turn your ice cream stop into a family outing

When families visit River Market, the best days usually have a rhythm to them. You start with something simple, add a stop where the kids can really enjoy themselves, and then end with a treat. That’s why Betty Rae’s works so well as part of a larger River Market plan.

Instead of making ice cream the only destination, think of it as the reward at the end of the outing. That leaves room for the real magic to happen before dessert.

Let the kids play at Bubbles & Goo

A short 3-minute walk away, Bubbles & Goo gives families something River Market has been missing: a hands-on bubbles and slime play experience designed specifically for kids.

Located at 512 Delaware Street, Bubbles & Goo is an immersive bubble and slime play space where kids can stretch slime, interact with bubbles, explore sensory play, and enjoy a playful environment that feels totally different from a typical errand stop or meal out. It’s bright, energetic, and built for families who want an outing that actually feels fun for the kids.

If you’re heading to Betty Rae’s with little ones, adding Bubbles & Goo before or after your treat stop makes the whole day feel intentional. It turns “let’s grab ice cream” into “let’s spend the morning in River Market.”

Why this pairing works so well for families

There’s a reason parents are always looking for outings that include both movement and a reward. Kids do better when they have something to do, not just somewhere to sit. And grownups have a better time when the day feels easy instead of chaotic.

A River Market plan that includes both Bubbles & Goo and Betty Rae’s hits that balance really well:

• Kids get a place to play, move, and explore

• Parents get a neighborhood outing that feels special

• Everyone leaves with a built-in treat at the end

It’s the kind of plan that works for weekends, grandparents in town, playdates, sibling outings, or even a “we need to get out of the house today” afternoon.

Other ways to build a River Market day

One of the reasons River Market is so great for families is that it doesn’t require a rigid schedule. You can keep it simple and still have a really lovely day.

A few easy ways to build your outing:

• Bubble and slime play at Bubbles & Goo, lunch at Minsky's pizza then ice cream after

• Ice cream first, then let the kids burn energy in a hands-on play space

• Make it part of a longer River Market day with a walk, snack, or neighborhood exploring in between

  
  

The point isn’t to do everything. The point is to leave River Market feeling like you made a memory instead of just crossing off a task.