Kansas City is a vibrant city filled with diverse attractions, rich history, and a lively cultural scene. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or exploring the city for a weekend getaway, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of top destinations in Kansas City that you shouldn’t miss:
1. National World War I Museum and Memorial
- Location: 2 Memorial Drive
- This museum is dedicated to the history of World War I and is one of the most prominent in the country. The museum’s centerpiece is the Liberty Memorial Tower, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the city. Inside, you’ll find immersive exhibits and collections of artifacts, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
2. Union Station
- Location: 30 W Pershing Rd
- One of Kansas City’s most iconic landmarks, Union Station is a beautifully restored train station that combines rich history with modern attractions. It features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, the Science City museum for children, and seasonal events like the Polar Express train ride during the holidays.
3. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- Location: 4525 Oak Street
- This renowned museum houses an impressive collection of over 35,000 pieces of art, ranging from ancient civilizations to contemporary works. The museum is famous for its expansive collection of Asian art and its striking outdoor sculpture park, featuring works like the iconic “Shuttlecocks” by Claes Oldenburg.
4. Kansas City Zoo
- Location: 6800 Zoo Dr
- Spread across 202 acres, the Kansas City Zoo is home to over 1,700 animals and features exhibits such as the African Plains, Australia, and Penguin Plaza. It’s a family-friendly destination with plenty of interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and fun for all ages.
5. Country Club Plaza
- Location: 4750 Broadway Blvd
- Known simply as “The Plaza,” this Spanish-inspired shopping district is one of the most iconic destinations in Kansas City. With over 150 shops, restaurants, and galleries, The Plaza is an excellent place to enjoy a day of shopping and dining. During the holidays, the area is beautifully lit with thousands of lights, creating a festive atmosphere.
6. Power & Light District
- Location: 1100 Main St
- If you’re looking for nightlife, dining, and entertainment, the Power & Light District is the place to be. This bustling area offers live music venues, bars, restaurants, and dance clubs. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, especially for catching a concert or enjoying some of Kansas City’s best barbecue.
7. Kauffman Stadium
- Location: 1 Royal Way
- Home to the Kansas City Royals, this ballpark is an essential stop for sports fans. With its beautiful design and iconic fountains beyond the outfield, Kauffman Stadium offers one of the best baseball experiences in the country. Even if you’re not attending a game, the stadium offers tours that explore its history.
8. Arrowhead Stadium
- Location: 1 Arrowhead Dr
- As the home of the Kansas City Chiefs, Arrowhead Stadium is legendary for its passionate fan base and electric atmosphere. Known as one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL, visiting Arrowhead on game day is an experience like no other. The stadium also offers tours that take you behind the scenes of one of the NFL’s top teams.
9. The Crossroads Arts District
- Location: Downtown Kansas City
- This trendy neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene, including galleries, street art, and a variety of creative spaces. On the first Friday of each month, the Crossroads hosts a popular art walk with open galleries, food trucks, and live music, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
10. 18th & Vine Historic District
- Location: 1600 E 18th St
- This historic district celebrates Kansas City’s jazz heritage and African American culture. The area is home to the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting the city’s significant role in jazz music, as well as the stories of legendary musicians like Charlie Parker.
11. The Kansas City Museum
- Location: 3218 Gladstone Blvd
- Located in the historic Corinthian Hall, this museum offers a glimpse into Kansas City’s past, with exhibits on local history, art, and culture. The building itself is a beautiful piece of architecture, and it’s a great spot for learning more about the city’s development over the years.
12. The Barbecue Scene
- Various Locations:
Kansas City is famous for its distinctive style of barbecue, characterized by slow-cooked meats, tangy tomato-based sauces, and a variety of flavorful sides. Some of the top spots for barbecue include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant’s, and Gates Bar-B-Q. Be sure to make time for a delicious barbecue meal while exploring the city.
13. The River Market
- Location: 5th & Walnut
- The River Market is Kansas City’s oldest neighborhood and one of its most vibrant areas. It’s home to a bustling farmers’ market, boutique shops, international food markets, and restaurants. The area is a perfect spot for exploring on foot, with easy access to the nearby Missouri River waterfront.
14. Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun
- Location: 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave
- This amusement park features thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and water attractions at Oceans of Fun. Worlds of Fun is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun day out, with plenty of activities to suit all ages and tastes.
15. Hallmark Visitors Center
- Location: 2501 McGee St
- Kansas City is home to Hallmark Cards, and the Hallmark Visitors Center offers an in-depth look at the company’s history and its iconic greeting cards. You can explore interactive exhibits, learn about the company’s creative process, and even make your own card.
16. Swope Park
- Location: 6900 Swope Pkwy
- As one of the largest urban parks in the country, Swope Park offers over 1,800 acres of green space, hiking trails, and recreational facilities. It’s home to the Kansas City Zoo, as well as a variety of sports fields and picnic areas. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.
17. The World’s Largest Shuttlecocks (Nelson-Atkins Museum)
- Location: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Grounds
- The giant shuttlecocks on the museum grounds are one of Kansas City’s most recognizable landmarks. Created by artist Claes Oldenburg, these oversized sculptures are a fun and playful addition to the museum’s sculpture park.
Conclusion
Kansas City offers a dynamic range of destinations that highlight its rich history, cultural diversity, and love for entertainment. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, enjoying the arts, or indulging in some of the best food and shopping in the Midwest, there’s always something exciting to discover in the heart of the U.S.