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If you’re planning a trip to the Midwest, Kansas City should be on your list of places to visit. This vibrant city is known for its delicious BBQ, jazz music, and rich history. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, there are plenty of things to do in Kansas City to keep you entertained.
One of the top attractions in Kansas City is the National World War I Museum and Memorial. This museum is home to one of the largest collections of World War I artifacts in the world. You can explore the exhibits and learn about the causes and consequences of the war, as well as the experiences of soldiers and civilians. The museum also has a beautiful memorial with a tower that offers stunning views of the city.
If you’re a fan of sports, you can catch a game at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals. The stadium has a lively atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. You can also visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum to learn about the history of African American baseball players and their contributions to the sport. These are just a few of the many things to do in Kansas City, so be sure to plan your trip and explore all that this city has to offer.
Kansas City Overview
Welcome to Kansas City, a friendly Midwestern city with plenty of things to see and do. Known as the “City of Fountains,” Kansas City is home to over 200 beautiful fountains, including the famous J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain, located in the Country Club Plaza shopping district.
In addition to its fountains, Kansas City is also known for its barbecue. You’ll find plenty of barbecue restaurants throughout the city, serving up delicious smoked meats and classic side dishes like baked beans and coleslaw. Some of the most famous barbecue spots in town include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant’s, and Gates Bar-B-Q.
If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, located in downtown Kansas City. This museum is the only one in the United States dedicated solely to World War I, and it features a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to the war.
For sports fans, there’s plenty to see and do in Kansas City as well. Catch a game at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals baseball team, or head over to Arrowhead Stadium to watch the Kansas City Chiefs football team in action.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Kansas City. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that this friendly Midwestern city has to offer!
Historical Landmarks
Kansas City is a city with a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. Here are a few must-visit landmarks that you won’t want to miss.
Union Station
Location: 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE Washington
Union Station is a historic train station that has been beautifully restored. It was originally built in 1914 and served as a hub for rail travel in the Midwest. Today, it is a bustling cultural center that houses a science center, a planetarium, and several exhibits that showcase the history of the station and the city.
Liberty Memorial
Location: 100 W 26th St, Kansas City
The Liberty Memorial is a towering monument that honors the soldiers who fought in World War I. It was built in 1926 and is surrounded by a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the city. The museum located at the base of the memorial is home to several exhibits that showcase the history of the war and the soldiers who fought in it.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Location: 4525 Oak St, Kansas City
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a world-class museum that houses an impressive collection of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes works by famous artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt. In addition to the art, the museum also has several beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park, which features several larger-than-life sculptures.
These are just a few of the many historical landmarks that you can explore in Kansas City. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something fun to do, these landmarks are sure to impress.
Outdoor Activities
Kansas City is a great place for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a sports fan, an animal lover, or just enjoy spending time in nature, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few must-see outdoor attractions in Kansas City.
Kauffman Stadium
Location: 1 Royal Way, Kansas City
If you’re a baseball fan, you won’t want to miss a game at Kauffman Stadium. Home to the Kansas City Royals, this stadium is known for its beautiful fountains and great views of the field. You can also take a tour of the stadium and learn about the history of the Royals.
Kansas City Zoo
Location: 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City
The Kansas City Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family or friends. With over 1,700 animals, there’s plenty to see and do. Don’t miss the penguins, polar bears, and big cats. You can also take a ride on the zoo’s train or carousel.
Swope Park
Location: 6599 5601 Oakwood Rd, Kansas City
Swope Park is the largest park in Kansas City and offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can go hiking or biking on one of the park’s many trails, play a round of golf at the Swope Memorial Golf Course, or have a picnic with friends. The park also has a swimming pool, soccer fields, and tennis courts.
No matter what your interests, there’s plenty to do outside in Kansas City. So get out there and enjoy all that this great city has to offer!
Food and Drink
When it comes to food and drink, Kansas City has a lot to offer. From its famous barbecue scene to its local breweries and farmers markets, there’s something for everyone.
Barbecue Scene
Kansas City is known for its barbecue, and for good reason. With over 100 barbecue joints in the city, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Some of the most popular spots include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Q39, and Arthur Bryant’s. Be sure to try some burnt ends, which are a Kansas City specialty.
Local Breweries
Kansas City has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and flavorful beers. Some of the most popular breweries include Boulevard Brewing Company, KC Bier Co., and Torn Label Brewing Company. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, so be sure to check their websites for more information.
Farmers Markets
If you’re looking for fresh, locally grown produce, Kansas City has plenty of farmers markets to choose from. The City Market in the River Market district is one of the most popular, offering a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other locally made products. Other popular farmers markets include the Overland Park Farmers Market and the Brookside Farmers Market.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a good meal, Kansas City has plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to explore the city’s barbecue scene, check out its local breweries, and visit one of its many farmers markets for a taste of the local flavor.
Shopping Destinations
Kansas City is a shopper’s paradise, with numerous shopping destinations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for high-end boutiques or unique local shops, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top shopping destinations in Kansas City:
Country Club Plaza
Location: 4750 Broadway, Kansas City
Country Club Plaza is a premier shopping destination in Kansas City. This outdoor shopping center is known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and beautiful fountains. With over 150 shops and restaurants, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. Some of the top stores include Anthropologie, Kate Spade, and Michael Kors. You can also find local boutiques like Standard Style and Baldwin.
Crown Center
Location: 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City
Crown Center is another popular shopping destination in Kansas City. This indoor shopping center is located in the heart of downtown and features over 50 shops and restaurants. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and gifts. Some of the top stores include Halls, The Learning Tree, and The Coterie Shop.
Westport
Location: 4050 Pennsylvania Ave, Ste M100, Kansas City
If you’re looking for a more eclectic shopping experience, head to Westport. This historic neighborhood is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques. You can find everything from vintage clothing and accessories to handmade jewelry and gifts. Some of the top stores include Raygun, Hammerpress, and Boomerang.
No matter what your shopping style is, Kansas City has something for everyone. From high-end boutiques to local shops, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. So grab your wallet and get ready to shop till you drop!
Nightlife
Kansas City’s nightlife scene is one of the best in the Midwest. From dancing at nightclubs to bar-hopping in trendy neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few sub-sections to help you navigate the city’s nightlife.
Power & Light District
The Power & Light District is the heart of Kansas City’s nightlife. It’s a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area with over 50 bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Here are a few places to check out:
- PBR Big Sky – A country-themed bar with a mechanical bull and live music.
- Mosaic Ultra Lounge – A high-end nightclub with a rooftop patio and VIP bottle service.
- The Kill Devil Club – A speakeasy-style bar with craft cocktails and live jazz.
Jazz Clubs
Kansas City has a rich history of jazz music, and there are still plenty of places to catch a live show. Here are a few jazz clubs to add to your itinerary:
- The Blue Room – Located in the historic 18th & Vine district, this club features local and national jazz acts.
- Green Lady Lounge – A cozy lounge with live jazz every night and no cover charge.
- The Phoenix – A restaurant and jazz club with a rooftop patio and live music seven nights a week.
Casinos
If you’re feeling lucky, Kansas City has several casinos to choose from. Here are a few options:
- Harrah’s Kansas City – A large casino with over 1,300 slot machines and 60 table games.
- Ameristar Casino Hotel – This casino features over 2,200 slot machines and 66 table games, plus a hotel and spa.
- Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa – A casino with over 1,500 slot machines and 37 table games, plus a hotel and spa.
Whether you’re in the mood for dancing, live music, or gambling, Kansas City’s nightlife scene has something for everyone.
Family Friendly Attractions
Kansas City is a great destination for families with plenty of attractions that cater to children of all ages. Here are some of the top family-friendly attractions that you should definitely check out during your visit:
Science City
Location: 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City
Science City is a hands-on science center located inside Union Station. It features over 200 interactive exhibits that cover a wide range of scientific topics, including physics, chemistry, biology, and more. Kids will love the chance to experiment with different scientific concepts and learn through play.
Some of the highlights of Science City include the Maker Studio, where kids can create their own inventions, and the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, which offers stunning shows that explore the wonders of the universe.
Worlds of Fun
Location: 4545 Worlds Of Fun Ave, Kansas City
Worlds of Fun is a popular amusement park that offers a variety of rides and attractions for families. It features over 235 acres of rides, shows, and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly rides.
Some of the most popular rides at Worlds of Fun include the Mamba, a roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 75 miles per hour, and the Patriot, an inverted coaster that takes riders through a series of twists and turns.
Sea Life Aquarium
Location: 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City
Located in Crown Center, the Sea Life Aquarium is a great destination for families who love marine life. It features over 5,000 sea creatures, including sharks, jellyfish, and sea turtles. Kids will love the chance to get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
Some of the highlights of Sea Life Aquarium include the Ocean Tunnel, which takes visitors through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, and the Touch Pool, where kids can touch and interact with starfish and other sea creatures.
Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just some good old-fashioned fun, these family-friendly attractions in Kansas City are sure to please.
Final Thoughts
You’ve explored a lot of Kansas City, and hopefully, you’ve found some fun new activities to try. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a tourist discovering the city for the first time, there’s always something to do in Kansas City.
From the historic River Market neighborhood to the bustling Power & Light District, there’s a district for every taste. And don’t forget about the city’s museums! The National World War I Museum and Memorial is a must-see for history buffs, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a great place to spend an afternoon.
If you’re a foodie, you’re in luck! Kansas City has some of the best barbecue in the world, but that’s not all. The city’s culinary scene is diverse, with plenty of options for every palate.
And for sports fans, there’s no shortage of excitement. Catch a game at Arrowhead Stadium or Kauffman Stadium, or head to the Kansas Speedway for some high-speed action.
No matter what your interests are, Kansas City has something for you. So go out and explore all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique attractions in Kansas City?
Kansas City is home to many unique attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. Some of the most popular ones include the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which features interactive exhibits and artifacts from the war.
Another unique attraction is the Arabia Steamboat Museum, where you can see the remains of a steamboat that sank in the Missouri River in 1856. For those interested in art, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a must-visit, with over 35,000 works of art from around the world.
What are some adventurous activities to do in Kansas City?
If you’re looking for some adventure in Kansas City, you won’t be disappointed. One popular activity is zip-lining at Zip KC, which offers a thrilling experience with a view of the Kansas City skyline.
Another option is to go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Missouri River. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails throughout the city.
What are some free things to do in Kansas City?
Kansas City is full of free activities for all ages. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is free to visit, as is the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. The Kauffman Memorial Garden is a beautiful place to explore, with free admission year-round. You can also take a stroll through the Country Club Plaza, which features beautiful architecture and outdoor art installations.
What are some fun things to do in Kansas City with kids?
Kansas City is a great place to visit with kids, with plenty of activities and attractions for all ages. One popular destination is the Kansas City Zoo, which features over 1,000 animals from around the world. Science City at Union Station is another must-visit, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
For those who love to play, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a fun-filled experience with LEGO-themed rides and attractions.
What are some fun things to do in Kansas City for young adults?
If you’re a young adult looking for some fun in Kansas City, there are plenty of options. The Power and Light District is a popular destination, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The Crossroads Arts District is another great place to explore, with galleries, shops, and live music venues. For those who love to dance, the Madrid Theatre is a popular spot for live music and dancing.
What are some romantic things to do in Kansas City for couples?
Kansas City has plenty of romantic activities for couples. The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a beautiful venue for a night out, with a variety of performances throughout the year. The Country Club Plaza is another romantic destination, with beautiful fountains, outdoor art, and upscale restaurants.
For a more intimate experience, take a stroll through the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, which features beautiful gardens and walking trails.
