- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
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Why Visit Kansas City
Kansas City's growth began at the confluence of two major rivers, shaping its unique layout. The city boasts more boulevards than Paris, a legacy of the City Beautiful movement. Art Deco gems like the Power & Light Building and City Hall tower over the skyline, while Union Station stands as a Beaux-Arts icon. This rich history is essential for anyone visiting Kansas City.
Explore over 1,800 acres at Swope Park, one of the nation's largest urban parks and home to the KC Zoo. For a more intimate setting, visit Loose Park's Rose Garden, a historic site from the Battle of Westport. These green spaces are some of the top attractions in Kansas City, offering miles of trails and tranquil retreats from the urban core.
If you ask what is Kansas City famous for, the answer is barbecue. Discover over 100 joints, each with a distinct style. Try burnt ends, a local delicacy originally given away for free. The slow-smoked flavor profile defines our culinary scene, often paired with a craft beer from a local pioneer like Boulevard Brewing Company.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Mar-Maymild, blooming flowers
- Jun-Aughot, lively festivals
- Sep-Novcool, colorful foliage
- Dec-Febcold, occasional snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #LightJacket
- #Sunscreen
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- #PortableCharger
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 with side trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is the official language here
- #NelsonAtkinsMuseum
- #UnionStation
- #CountryClubPlaza
- #KauffmanCenter
- #Westport
- #PowerAndLightDistrict
- Explore the Crossroads Arts District
- Taste Kansas City BBQ
- Attend a live jazz show
- Visit the National World War I Museum
- Stroll through Loose Park
Recommended Hotels in Kansas City by Experience
Things to do in Kansas City
Discover
Exploring Kansas City reveals a city rich with history and art. Visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial for panoramic views, see masterpieces at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and admire the grand architecture of Union Station.
Experience
Experience the city's soul in its jazz clubs in the 18th & Vine District. Savor world-renowned barbecue, catch a Chiefs game at Arrowhead Stadium, or browse the stalls at the City Market for local goods and fresh produce.
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Museum dedicated to WWI history with a 217-foot tower.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Encyclopedic art museum with a famous sculpture park.
Union Station
Historic train station with exhibits, a planetarium & shows.
Country Club Plaza
Spanish-inspired outdoor district for shopping and dining.
Kauffman Memorial Garden
A serene 2-acre botanical garden with fountains and paths.
18th & Vine Historic Jazz District
Cultural hub with live jazz music and history museums.
City Market
Large farmers' market with local produce and vendors.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Fly into Kansas City International Airport (MCI). To get from the Kansas City airport to city center, use the RideKC bus or a pre-booked Kansas City shuttle bus. A scenic train to Kansas City via Amtrak's Southwest Chief arrives at historic Union Station.
Getting Around
Move around downtown with the free KC Streetcar, connecting River Market and Union Station. For broader public transport in Kansas City, the RideKC bus system is efficient. RideKC Bike offers electric-assist bikes for exploring neighborhoods at your own pace.
Local Essentials
One of the best Kansas City travel tips for first-timers: consider a car rental. The city is spread out, and driving in Kansas City is straightforward. Use the RideKC app for bus passes; credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Where to Stay in Kansas City
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Kansas City's culinary soul. The traditional food in Kansas City is barbecue, a culture centered on community. Taste iconic burnt ends and saucy ribs. Locals often eat at no-frills, counter-service joints for an authentic experience.
Enjoy
Deciding where to eat in Kansas City? Taste barbecue at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que's gas station spot, expect queues. Sip cocktails at The Majestic's jazz club, book ahead. Grab coffee at The Classic Cup Cafe's bustling patio, arrive early.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Legendary gas station barbecue. A must-try KC classic.
Jack Stack Barbecue
Upscale barbecue with a diverse menu. Wood-fired cooking.
The Capital Grille
Fine dining steakhouse known for dry-aged steaks.
Lidia's Restaurant
Authentic Italian pasta tasting menu. Warm, rustic barn.
Bristol Seafood Grill
Fresh, high-quality seafood and an extensive wine list.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Kansas City's heritage through must-see events. The St. Patrick's Day Parade reflects deep Irish roots, while the American Royal World Series of Barbecue showcases its stockyard history. These are key things to do in Kansas City.
Enjoy
Discover Kansas City's creative pulse at contemporary events. First Fridays in the Crossroads Arts District feature gallery openings and street art. Film enthusiasts can enjoy screenings at the Kansas City FilmFest International.
Plaza Art Fair
A top-ranked national art event in September with live music.
American Royal World Series of BBQ
The world's largest barbecue competition held in the fall.
KC Irish Fest
Labor Day weekend event with Celtic rock and traditional music.
First Fridays
Monthly art walk in the Crossroads Arts District.
Celebration at the Station
Free Memorial Day concert by the KC Symphony with fireworks.
KC FilmFest International
A celebration of independent filmmaking in March.
KC Renaissance Festival
A medieval-themed fair with jousting, artisans, and food.
A Great Weekend City
Kansas City has a cool, laid-back feel. It's easy to get around and the people are genuinely friendly. The fountains are everywhere and really pretty. A great city for a long weekend trip without feeling rushed.
Fantastic Arts Scene
Really impressed with the arts scene here. The Nelson-Atkins Museum is world-class, and those giant shuttlecocks on the lawn are so fun. The Crossroads Arts District is also full of interesting galleries and studios.
Amazing History
Kansas City really respects its history. The National WWI Museum is incredibly well done and very moving. The view from the top of the Liberty Memorial tower is fantastic and worth the trip alone. A definite highlight.
Beautiful Architecture
Just loved the architecture! The Country Club Plaza feels like a piece of Europe with its Spanish-style buildings. It's a beautiful area for a walk with plenty of nice shops and places to eat.
Incredible Live Music
The music history is amazing. We spent an evening in the 18th & Vine District listening to fantastic live jazz. The clubs have a cool, authentic feel and it's clearly a huge part of the city's identity.
So Much Good Food
A wonderful, walkable city with some seriously good food. The River Market has a great selection of food stalls and little shops. Had some burnt ends that were out of this world. People are welcoming and friendly.