15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

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Kansas City, located in Missouri, boasts an array of attractions that cater to varied tastes. The city’s extensive cultural heritage is evident in its notable landmarks, historic districts, and entertainment options.

The 18th and Vine District, known for its jazz heritage, houses the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a landmark dedicated to baseball history. Meanwhile, the River Market District provides a bustling environment, with its farmers' market and unique shops.

Art enthusiasts can enjoy performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which features a diverse array of cultural events. Sports fans can look forward to games at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or experience Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs take the field.

For food lovers, the city’s famous Kansas City–style barbecue is a must-try, with many spots serving this distinctive dish.

Outdoor visitors can spend time in Swope Park, which offers ample green spaces for recreation. Meanwhile, shoppers can explore the Country Club Plaza, renowned for its Spanish-inspired architecture and a varied mix of dining and retail experiences.

Whether your interests are focused on history, music, sports, or food, Kansas City provides a multitude of attractions to enjoy.

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15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

The lively city of Kansas City, Missouri, is known for its vibrant cultural tapestry and heritage-filled significance, making it a destination that captivates visitors from around the world. Called the "City of Fountains," Kansas City is home to remarkable attractions and a flourishing arts scene.

One of the city’s must-visit areas is the 18th and Vine District, renowned for its significant contributions to jazz music. This heritage-rich district is home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, an important historical site highlighting the history of African-American baseball. The River Market District, meanwhile, provides a bustling atmosphere with its thriving farmers' market and distinctive shops that cater to a variety of tastes.

For art enthusiasts, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a beacon of creativity, featuring high-quality performances in musical arts and theater. Sports fans can enjoy the excitement at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or at Arrowhead Stadium, hosting the Kansas City Chiefs bring energy to the field.

Kansas City is also famed for its legendary barbecue, a culinary tradition that has gained international acclaim.

Kansas City Chiefs

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  3. 18th and Vine District
Restaurants throughout the city present mouthwatering Kansas City–style barbecue, featuring smoky, flavorful dishes that reflect the city's gastronomic heritage. For outdoor recreation, Swope Park offers extensive green spaces perfect for relaxation and family activities. The Country Club Plaza offers a unforgettable shopping experience with its Mediterranean-style architecture and wide retail and dining options.

Whether learning about its heritage, indulging in the arts, or tasting renowned dishes, Kansas City, Missouri, provides an exceptional experience for visitors.

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The Kansas City Chiefs' success, particularly in recent years with their Super Bowl LIV and Super Bowl LVII victories, has significantly influenced the city's culture and economy, creating a lasting legacy. Here's a closer look at how the team has impacted Kansas City:

Cultural Impact

1. Enhanced Community Pride

  • The Chiefs’ achievements have united the city and fostered a strong sense of pride among residents.
  • Landmarks like Union Station and the City Hall building are often lit in red during football season, symbolizing the team’s integral role in the city's identity.
  • The "Chiefs Kingdom" fan base has become a defining feature of Kansas City culture, with traditions like the Tomahawk Chop and chants of "Home of the Chiefs" during the national anthem at Arrowhead Stadium.

2. Strengthened Sports Identity

  • Kansas City is now recognized nationally and globally as a football powerhouse.
  • The Chiefs' dynamic play style, led by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes, has turned Kansas City into a destination for sports enthusiasts.
  • Arrowhead Stadium, the loudest stadium in the NFL, has become an iconic venue for passionate football fans.

3. Boost to Local Traditions

  • Game days are celebrated with tailgating culture at Arrowhead Stadium, often described as one of the best in the NFL.
  • Chiefs-related traditions, merchandise, and events have become woven into Kansas City’s fabric, influencing everything from local art to food (e.g., Chiefs-themed BBQ items).

Economic Impact

1. Increased Tourism

  • Chiefs games draw fans from across the country, boosting hotel stays, restaurant visits, and other local spending.
  • The team’s success has made Arrowhead Stadium a year-round tourist attraction, particularly for events like playoff games and the NFL Draft, which Kansas City hosted in 2023.

2. Job Creation and Revenue

  • Home games generate significant economic activity, supporting jobs in hospitality, transportation, and stadium operations.
  • A Super Bowl victory alone can infuse millions into the local economy, with parades, merchandise sales, and celebrations creating a ripple effect.

3. Boost to Small Businesses

  • Chiefs’ success has benefited local businesses, from sports bars and BBQ joints to Chiefs-themed shops. Merchandise sales skyrocket during successful seasons.
  • Chiefs branding on products—from beer to apparel—helps small businesses capitalize on fan enthusiasm.

4. National and Global Exposure

  • Media coverage of the Chiefs brings attention to Kansas City’s attractions, such as its jazz scene, BBQ, and cultural landmarks.
  • The success of players like Patrick Mahomes has elevated the city's reputation beyond sports, with Mahomes himself investing in local ventures like Whataburger franchises and the Kansas City Current women’s soccer team.

Social and Philanthropic Impact

1. Community Involvement

  • The Chiefs and their players are heavily involved in local philanthropy. The Mahomes Foundation (15 and the Mahomies) supports children’s initiatives and community development.
  • Team-led events and charitable contributions have helped address local challenges, from education to health.

2. Strengthened Civic Pride

  • The Chiefs’ success has unified a diverse population, fostering civic pride and strengthening Kansas City's identity as a premier sports city.
  • Victory parades bring the community together, with hundreds of thousands gathering to celebrate.

Future Prospects

  • With the Chiefs' continued dominance in the NFL, Kansas City is poised for sustained economic and cultural growth. Hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will further enhance the city's global profile, thanks in part to the Chiefs’ visibility.

The Kansas City Chiefs have become more than just a football team—they are a cultural and economic powerhouse that has reshaped the city’s identity and inspired national and global recognition.

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Kansas City offers a diverse range of entertainment options, from music and theater to sports and nightlife. Here are some highlights:

Music and Live Performances

  • T-Mobile Center: Hosts major concerts, sports events, and shows. It's a go-to spot for big-name entertainers.

  • Starlight Theatre: An outdoor theater that brings Broadway to Kansas City with its summer productions.

  • The Blue Room Jazz Club: Located next to the American Jazz Museum, it's a venue for live jazz music, embodying the city's rich jazz heritage.

  • The Bird Comedy Theater: Known for its comedy shows, including improv and stand-up.

Theater and Arts

  • Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: A stunning venue for opera, ballet, symphony, and more. It's one of the most architecturally beautiful buildings in KC.

  • KC Repertory Theatre: Offers a mix of plays from classics to new works.

  • The Coterie Theatre: Focuses on theater for young audiences but has productions that appeal to all ages.

Sports Entertainment

  • Kauffman Stadium: Home to the Kansas City Royals, offering baseball games with a unique fountain show.

  • Arrowhead Stadium: Experience the energy of a Kansas City Chiefs NFL game or other major events like concerts.

  • Sporting KC: Watch soccer at Children's Mercy Park, where the atmosphere is electric during matches.

Nightlife and Bars

  • Power & Light District: A vibrant area with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, perfect for nightlife.

  • Westport: Known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and live music spots, offering a more local vibe.

  • 39th Street: Famous for dive bars, unique shops, and a bohemian atmosphere.

Unique Entertainment Experiences

  • Union Station: Beyond its historical significance, it's home to Science City, a planetarium, and often hosts special exhibitions and events.

  • Worlds of Fun: An amusement park with roller coasters, water attractions at Oceans of Fun, and seasonal events like Halloween Haunt.

  • Escape Rooms: Breakout KC offers themed escape room experiences for those looking for interactive fun.

Festivals and Events

  • Boulevardia: A music and craft beer festival by Boulevard Brewing Company, showcasing local and national acts.

  • First Fridays: An art crawl in the Crossroads Arts District with galleries, street performances, and food trucks.

  • Kansas City Irish Fest: One of the largest Irish festivals in the U.S., celebrating Irish culture with music, dance, and food.

Cinematic Experiences

  • Screenland Armour & Crossroads: Independent theaters known for showing both blockbuster and indie films, with special events like movie marathons.

  • Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: Offers an elevated movie-going experience with food service at your seat and a no-texting policy.

Kansas City's entertainment scene is vibrant and varied, catering to all tastes from high culture to family fun, and from local haunts to international acts. Whether you're there for the music, the arts, sports, or just to enjoy the nightlife, KC has something for everyone.

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Located within the historic Union Station, Science City spans over 100,000 square feet and offers an array of interactive exhibits and activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire learning. It’s one of Kansas City’s top destinations for families and visitors of all ages.

Highlights of Science City



    Lenexa

    1. Paris of the Plains
    2. Kansas River
    3. Overland Park
  • Hands-On Learning: Explore over 50 interactive exhibits across themes like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
  • Maker Studio: Engage in creative problem-solving and build your own projects using tools and technology.
  • Sky Bike: Test your balance and bravery by pedaling a bike along a high wire.
  • Dino Lab: Learn about paleontology and get up close to dinosaur fossils and replicas.
  • Planetarium: Experience stunning shows that explore the universe and beyond.

Why Visit?

  • Perfect for kids, teens, and adults with a love for discovery and exploration.
  • Conveniently located in Union Station, surrounded by other attractions like the Model Train Exhibit and live theater performances.
  • Offers rotating exhibits and seasonal events, ensuring there’s always something new to explore.

Pro Tip:

  • Combine your trip to Science City with a visit to the surrounding Union Station attractions for a full day of fun and learning.

Things To Do When Its Raining In Kansas City MO
Things To Do When Bored At Night In Kansas City MO
Things To Do When Bored At Night In Kansas City MO

Kansas City offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and families. Here are some of the best options:

1. Explore the Parks

  • Loose Park: A 75-acre park featuring beautiful rose gardens, walking trails, and a large pond. Perfect for picnics and relaxation.
  • Swope Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., with hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Home to the Kansas City Zoo and Starlight Theatre.

2. Visit the Kansas City Zoo

  • Location: Swope Park.
  • Highlights: Spanning over 200 acres, the zoo features animals from around the world, interactive exhibits, and the African Sky Safari ride.

3. Stroll Through the Country Club Plaza

  • Highlights: This iconic outdoor shopping district features Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, and sculptures. Great for a leisurely walk, shopping, and dining.

4. Walk or Bike Along Trails

  • Indian Creek Trail: A scenic 26-mile trail ideal for biking, running, or walking.
  • Line Creek Trail: A shaded, paved trail that’s family-friendly and perfect for all skill levels.

5. Discover Powell Gardens

  • Location: About 30 miles east of Kansas City.
  • Highlights: This botanical garden offers lush landscapes, themed gardens, and seasonal events, such as the Festival of Lights.

6. Explore the Fountains

  • Fountains of Kansas City: Known as the "City of Fountains," Kansas City has over 200 fountains. Notable ones include the JC Nichols Memorial Fountain and the Crown Center Fountain.

7. Enjoy Sporting Activities

  • Topgolf Kansas City: A fun outdoor experience for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun: These adjacent amusement and water parks are perfect for thrill-seekers and families.

8. Attend Outdoor Events and Markets

  • City Market: Located in the River Market District, this farmer’s market offers fresh produce, local goods, and live entertainment.
  • Boulevardia: An annual outdoor festival celebrating craft beer, music, and food.

9. Explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum Sculpture Park

  • Highlights: Walk through this free outdoor space featuring large-scale sculptures, including the iconic Shuttlecocks.

10. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding

  • Lake Jacomo: Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals in a serene setting.
  • Blue River or Missouri River: Perfect for a more adventurous paddling experience.

11. Visit Kauffman Memorial Garden

  • Highlights: A tranquil garden featuring fountains, lush plants, and seasonal blooms. Great for a peaceful escape.

12. Picnic or Play at Union Station

  • Highlights: The surrounding green spaces provide excellent views of downtown Kansas City, making it a great spot for relaxation and people-watching.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly fun, Kansas City's outdoor activities offer something for everyone to enjoy!

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  • Learn about the ATF's Kansas City Field Division's role in criminal enforcement and industry regulation. Source
  • Access unemployment benefits and services through the Kansas Department of Labor. Source
  • Discover the Homeland Security Investigations office in Kansas City and its functions. Source
  • Explore international trade assistance and resources provided by the Missouri Kansas City office of the International Trade Administration. Source
  • Get real-time road and traffic information in Kansas City with KanDrive. Source

The Amazing Museums Of Kansas City MO

Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors should not miss the National WWI Museum and Memorial, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Zoo, and the Country Club Plaza. Also, exploring the historic City Market and enjoying live jazz music are highly recommended.

Popular day trips from Kansas City include visiting the historic town of Weston, exploring the wine country in nearby Missouri towns, and enjoying outdoor activities at Perry Lake or the Flint Hills.

Kansas City hosts several annual events, including the Kansas City Jazz Festival, the American Royal Barbecue Contest, and the Plaza Art Fair.