33 Favorite Places to Take Family Pictures in Kansas City (Outdoor Photos)

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When it comes to finding the perfect place to take pictures in Kansas City, there’s no short supply of ideas for family pictures.

KC has some of the best places to take pictures!

From the stunning scenery in Loose Park to the city views at Liberty Memorial, the backdrops offer the best photography places in Kansas City for every family photo. But, what parents have time to search for the best place to take photos…?

I can’t find 30 minutes to shower in peace, let alone time to search the internet. But hey, do it for the memories. Right?

If you’ve been looking for some cute places to take pictures in Kansas City, your hunt is over! We’ve got THE ultimate list of where to take your next family photo session.

Where to Take Pictures in Kansas City?

Stop searching the internet and start scrolling to find picture-perfect family photo locations all across the metro. Kansas City truly has some of the best places for family photos.

So, check out some of our favorite photo locations across the metro! We make it easy to find where to take family pictures in Kansas City…

After you work up an appetite by taking pictures, enjoy a family dinner at these places where kids eat free! 

Take a look…

Family Photos….Say Cheese!

Every parent and grandparent wants to best family photos, so grab your camera (or your phone) and head to these beautiful locations around KC. There is somewhere for everyone to take pictures!

If you want to explore more outdoor picture spots, check out the Best Kansas City Parks & Trails!

Best Places to Take Family Pictures in Kansas City:

(Good Picture Spots Near Me) 

They all have one thing in common: they’re a fabulous place to take a family picture. 

 #1 Burr Oak Woods Conservation (Blue Springs)

Burr Oak Woods is a great place to hike and explore, but also take family photos! They have a nature center that offers indoor and outdoor exhibits, picnic areas, six hiking trails, viewing decks, and bridges. Burr Oaks offers many family-oriented activities to do in the summer. Visit their website to find the location, hours, activities, & all the info you need.

#2 Lake Remembrance (Blue Springs)

Lake Remembrance is a peaceful spot with beautiful views. This is one of the best places to take family photos in Blue Springs! 

I absolutely love Lake Remembrance. You can take the family for a picnic, fishing, scavenger hunt, bike ride, walk, or jog. There are three walking trails to choose from as well as a dog park. I like to go there and escape day-to-day stress by just breathing in its beauty. Learn more about the lake at their site.

#3 Rotary Park at Railroad Lake (Blue Springs)

Rotary Park at Railroad Lake is another good place for family photos. Rotary Park is a total of 12 acres, so there are tons of picture spots for you to choose from! There are two playgrounds, a walking trail that surrounds a small lake, tennis courts, and a basketball court. This central Blue Springs location makes for a day of fun and photos.

Throughout the summer it hosts free summer concerts in the park. Take advantage of them for some free fun after you take your family photos. 

#4 Powell Gardens (Kingsville)

This 915-acre botanical garden is open to the public and does cost a fee to enter. Though there is an admittance fee, the breathtaking views are worth the price. 

They offer countless activities for the entire family. There really isn’t a place in Powell Gardens that isn’t picture-perfect. I highly recommend you go there and make a day out of it. You could play “I spy,” go on a self-made “treasure quest,” or make a list of items to find. The options are endless.

#5 Unity Village (Just Outside Lee’s Summit)

Unity Village is absolutely breathtaking for any type of photo. It truly is one of the most serene places I have ever been. Hands down one of the best photo locations. 

You can find the best picture spots in one of the many gardens or one of several fountains. I have photographed my niece there for her prom as well as enjoyed picnics there with a dear friend. I highly recommend you check out Unity Village if you have not yet. 

Peace can be found in one of the many gardens, the landscaping is perfectly groomed and the fountains make for a relaxing environment.

 #6 Kansas City River Market (Kansas City)

The Kansas City River Market has more than 25 merchants, markets, grocers & shops. The City Market is so much fun. It allows you to travel the world without a passport. I could get lost there. Take advantage of the unique backdrops to snap beautiful photos in KC. 

This unique KC location would make a great local spot for family photos, especially if you want to capture the excitement of the city in your backdrop.

There are so many amazing places to eat, beautiful fresh flowers for sale, cultures from all around the world, and just beautiful people in general. I love showing my son all the family ran produce stands. However, my favorite thing to do there is to taste food that is made by hand, and passed down from generation to generation.

#7 Country Club Plaza (Kansas City)

What is not to love about the County Club Plaza? A top-favorite Kansas City family photo idea: fountains, fountains, and more fountains!

If you love fountains this is probably the best place to take pictures for your family. There are fountains galore, along with high-end shops along clean streets and buildings.

For entertainment, try the variety of food prepared by world-class Chefs, an amazing toy store, live music, and carriage rides! We love going there and making a whole day of it. I encourage you to get out there and explore The Plaza together.

#8 West Bottoms (Kansas City)

The popular West Bottoms’ stores and restaurants offer one-of-a-kind quality vintage items, antiques, and lots of places to find great gifts. There are so many cool places tucked away waiting for you to find them. The West Bottoms offers artistic architectural views, hip, and fun locally-owned shops, and lots of unique spots. 

This is one of the best places to take pictures with older kiddos in KC. 

#9 Loose Park (Kansas City)

Loose Park is FULL of outdoor fun! It is the third largest park in Kansas City & considered by most to be the best place to take pictures in Kansas City. The rose garden at Loose Park is worth the visit alone. There are so many great things to say about Loose Park. The beauty at this park is unlike anywhere else in the downtown area, so head over to snap some photos! 

The Rose Garden and ponds are perfect places to take family pictures. The park is perfect for playing Frisbee, catching a live drum circle in action, watching the geese in the pond, letting the kids play, eating lunch while people watching, etc.

Loose Park is a Kansas City staple.

#10 Nelson Atkins Museum Of Art (Kansas City)

The Nelson is such a remarkable asset to Kansas City. Their museum has been a staple for photos and entertainment in Kansas City since I can remember. 

The outside area is ideal for taking family photos and the scenery is as aesthetically beautiful as the artwork inside. There are many intricate pathways, gardens, & sculptures to take photos around. 

Plus, it provides so many opportunities to bond as a family. I think sometimes people forget about what a great place this is. It is a necessity to show to your children. Most children see the beauty in art and see it as inspirational.

#11 Union Station (Kansas City)

Union Station is a magical place in our city. It may be the nostalgic charm that comes from the history of so many people who have stepped foot there before, or it could be the hustle and bustle happening under the huge ceilings. Union Station has a classic beauty that’s perfect for a family photo shoot in Kansas City.

I honestly could get lost in the beauty Union Station holds. It has an exotic beauty that is so classy. What better place to take a family photo?

#12 National WW1 Museum & Liberty Memorial (Kansas City)

The Liberty Memorial, located at the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri, is a memorial to servicemen and women who served in World War I. The museum overlooks downtown Kansas City; the perfect backdrop for family photos!

After you take your family picture, you can stand atop the overlook to see the vast Kansas City skyline.

#13 Kauffman Stadium (Kansas City)

Kansas City is not shy about its passion for sports. The love Kansas City has for The Royals & The Chiefs is evident everywhere you look.

Die-hard Royals and Chiefs fans would do anything for their teams, and maybe that’s you, too. Why not take the opportunity to express your love for the team by taking a picture in front of the stadium?

A perfect Kansas City photo idea intersects your love for the game and your desire for a frame-worthy family photo. What a great idea for your next Christmas card!

#14 Briarcliff Waterfall Park (Riverside)

The lovely waterfall at Briarcliff Park is another great spot to capture beautiful pictures of your family. The waterfalls make for a perfect backdrop for your next family photo op!

#15 Old Downtown (Overland Park)

Old Downtown Overland Park is a charming location for photos. It’s also a great location to go shopping, bring out-of-town guests, or eat brunch. 

You can take cooking classes, and art classes, explore an awesome art gallery, have desserts, smell fresh spices, run through kid-friendly fountains, go to the local farmers market and so much more.

#16 South Lake Park (Overland Park)

South Lake Park is a gorgeous spot right around a lake, making a nice backdrop for photos. It is a sprawling park that is literally centered around a lake. 

South Lake Park also offers picnic areas, a playground, basketball courts, and a scenic walking area. 

#17 Prairiefire (Overland Park)

The Museum at Prairiefire is a favorite of many around the KC area. It’s easy to be in awe by the beauty of just the outside.

The architecture and stained glass wall is ideal for vibrant family photo opportunities. Plus, you can take this opportunity to explore the inside too.  Their stained glass wall is perfect to add color to your family photos!

#18 Deanna Rose Farmstead (Overland Park)

Deanna Rose is a child favorite among many. There are so many different settings & things to do. Everyone can find a picturesque backdrop that fits them. 

What a great place to take photos reflecting the personality of your children!

Children can also feed animals, go fishing,  go  “mining,” ride horses, and more. The amount of fun your child can have is endless.

#19 Shawnee Mission Park (Lenexa)

Shawnee Mission Park is home to a number of fantastic amenities as well as a beautiful 120-acre lake. The beautiful scenic lake is a very popular spot for boating, fishing, sailboarding, family photos, and much more. The park also has eleven spacious shelters, numerous picnic areas, nature trails, play areas, an archery range, a 53-acre dog off-leash area, and a disc golf course, and is a great place to enjoy mountain biking and horseback riding.

The park is also home to The Theatre in the Park, Shawnee Mission Park Beach, and Shawnee Mission Park Marina. In season, there are canoes, pedal boats, and fishing boats available for rent at the marina. Please see the SMP website for more information.

#20 James A Reed Memorial Wildlife Area (Lee’s Summit)

Expansive woodland & wetland hunting grounds can make for a great natural backdrop.

The wildlife area features picnic spots, trails & fishing lakes & ponds…. Just another great location for your family photos in Kansas City.

#21 Antioch Park (Merriam)

A 44-acre park featuring a playground, 2 fishing lakes, tennis & basketball courts, trails & shelters.

Similar to many of the other parks, there are many great places for your family to take photos!

#22 Lake Olathe Park (Olathe)

Lake Olathe is vast, with tons of different areas for pictures. Plus, the park has a playground to keep the kids entertained and smiling. (we all know the struggles of a screaming child during pictures)

There are also trails to walk, cool forests and creeks, and of course, there is the lake!

#23 English Landing Park (Parkville)

English Landing Park is a 68-acre facility with several amenities, including; 3 miles of walking trails, a large playground area, a boat ramp, picnic shelters, a sand volleyball court, and a disc golf course. So, there are many photo spots to choose from. 

This park is sure to satisfy any family wanting to take advantage of the great outdoors. English Landing Park attracts a wide variety of users from bicyclists to walking or running enthusiasts; there is a recreation outlet for all to enjoy and the perfect natural setting for family photos.

#24 Tryst Falls Park (Excelsior Springs)

Tryst Falls is a scenic waterfall, one of the only natural waterfalls in the area. This natural park includes a playground, shelter houses, and picnic tables.

There is also a picturesque bridge behind the waterfall that adds to the background of your family photos. Grab your family and capture adorable family photos you will treasure forever. 

#25 Watkins Mill State Park (Lawson)

What a great Kansas City family photo idea: fascinating intact civil war era factory and farm, wonderful camping grounds as well as a great walking and biking trail around a beautiful lake. There are many great events like campground trick-or-treating and living history events. Check out reviews of Watkins Mill – they speak for themselves.

#26 Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts (Downtown)

The beautiful building is a great backdrop for family photos. You can also get shots of downtown in the background too.

There are lines of trees near the building that work well for natural backgrounds inside the city too!

#27 Grinter Farms (Lawrence)

Grinter Farms of Lawrence has become a popular destination for family photos, especially for local families who want to capture the natural beauty of Kansas in the background.

This family farm plants fields of sunflowers every year and during the short-lived bloom, thousands of people come to take photos with the state flower. The bloom usually occurs around the first week in September, and Grinter Farms is free to visit.

Grinter Farms truly works hard to keep this tradition around, and if you haven’t already, this spot is picture-perfect for your fall family photo shoot. 

#28 NOTO (Topeka)

Topeka is a little outside of the KC area, but this spot in our capital city is filled with beautiful street art that makes great backgrounds for art-loving families. You could spend the whole day taking photos around the city. 

Plus, with unique vintage shopping and local eats. Visit the North Topeka Arts and Entertainment District in historic North Topeka which is dedicated to stimulating the cultural and economic life of the surrounding area throughout the Midwest.

#29 Downtown Lawrence (Lawrence)

Downtown Lawrence celebrates the diversity that has created the vibrant business, entertainment, and arts & cultural district. There is also a park right off downtown Massachusetts St. 

With quirky spots around every corner and entertainment of all kinds almost every weekend, this could be a great place to take family photos and try some new restaurants or explore the neighboring campus of the University of Kansas, which has some photo-worthy spots of its own too.

#30 Overland Park Arboretum (Overland Park)

The 300-acre Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is an educational, recreational, and cultural resource for the Kansas City region. This local location is open year-round and visitors may see the beauty of all four seasons, taking pictures any time for the perfect shot of your family.

#31 Black Hoof Park (Lenexa)

Another park with 160 acres featuring 35-acre, deep-water Lake Lenexa. The park offers a unique dam and spillway, several miles of trails through open grass and wooded areas, and fun natural play areas for children.

You’ll be able to experience beautiful nature and observe a wide variety of wildlife – the perfect combination for a Kansas City family photo session. 

#32 Crossroads District

The Crossroads District is a KC favorite for hidden gems. It also makes for a great backdrop for family photos. The Crossroads District is just south of downtown KCMO.

#33 Kansas City Public Library

One of KC’s best kept secrets is the back of the Central Library located off 10th and Wyandotte in downtown Kansas City Mo. The back of the library  is every book lover’s dream and makes for a unique background to your family photos.

If you’re taking family photos, we hope you find a place to take pictures that fits you. To explore more outdoor picture spots, check out the Best Kansas City Parks & Trails! Or, check out these Back to School Photo Ideas, and bookmark our Guides full of family fun. We update them constantly!

Make sure you don’t miss a thing, click below to sign up for THE SCOOP! Get our Weekend Planner every week that is filled with things to do this weekend. You will also get exclusive event invites & discounts!

If you’ve got a favorite Kansas City photo spot that we may have missed, EMAIL us details, and we’ll get it added!

From our family to yours, iFamilyKC.