More than likely, you have heard somethings about Kansas City, but really don’t know that much about it. Sadly, far too many people do not consider it for a vacation destination.
However, Kansas City has a large number of attractions that are both fun to see and do.
Best Attractions In Kansas City
American Jazz Museum
Jazz music…while you either love it or hate it, we can all agree that it is a truly unique sound. When in the Kansas City area, you need to make some time and visit the American Jazz Museum.
This is an incredible destination situated in the heart of Kansas City that will bring you a new appreciation for jazz.
Located in the old neighborhood of the extraordinary saxophonist, Charlie Parker, it is an excellent destination for those unfamiliar with jazz or die-hard fans.
The museum is designed for interactive and sensory participation allowing visitors to fully understand the love and depth of jazz music.
This is a truly wonderful Kansas City attraction for families and considering there is no entry fee for children under four, it is also a great budget-friendly option.
1616 E 18 St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Arabia Steamboat Museum
Have you ever wondered what it was like to live in a time when things were considerably simpler, or at least they seemed as though they were.
Kansas City will take you back to that point in history at the Arabia Steamboat Museum.
Over thirty years the wreckage of the Arabia was found and recovered after sinking in 1856. As it was pulled from the depths of the rivers, it brought many facts and informations from days gone by.
When the steamboat took its final voyage on the Mississippi that day, over 200 tons of goods sunk with her. The recovery crew that ventured to the wreckage were able to salvage a good deal of it and allow visitors to check it out today at the museum.
The Arabia Steamboat Museum allows visitors to see how people were living just prior to the Civil War. As you walk through the exhibit you are going to find antique toys as well as the oldest pickle collection found in the world!
The museum offer a very affordable price of admission and those under three can enter for three. There is a 90-minute tour that will take you through the museum and offer you interesting insights into many of the exhibits.
400 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Arrowhead Stadium
For a good concert or game of football, check out the Arrowhead Stadium.
The stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs brings in fans from far and wide.
A number of musical guests have come to the stadium to perform for thousands upon thousands of fans.
Arrowhead has been entertaining fans since 1972 and has the ability to hold over 76,000 fans.
The stadium also offers a number of restaurants and concession stands. If you want to enjoy a game or concert in seclusion and luxury, you can enjoy a luxury suite.
While there is not always something going pn in the stadium, you can always call ahead and arrange for a private tour which gives you a behind the scenes experience.
This will bring you into the locker room of the Chiefs as well as the press box, a great experience for any football fan.
1 Arrowhead Dr, Kansas City, MO 64129
Barbecue Tour
As you may have heard, Kansas City has made a name for itself in offering up some of the best barbecue in the United States.
While enjoying the sights and sounds of Kansas City, you may want to take in some of those delicious barbecue ribs and chicken! However, trying to find the best of the best can be difficult when they are so many places that offer good barbecue. Which is exactly why you should sign up for a Kansas City barbecue tour.
These barbecue tours are going to bring you to the most mouthwatering establishments in the heart of Missouri.
If you are looking for the best of the best in barbecue, check out KC Barbecue Tour You will have the opportunity to try some of the best barbecue joints found in Kansas City,
They offer a number of tour choices, one of the best is going to bring you to four of the most popular Kansas City barbecue restaurants.
You can upgrade your tour to include a number of beers from local breweries with the tour.
Kansas City offers the finest in barbecue found in the United States. If you plan on checking out one of these tours be sure you have a lot of room and maybe wear an extra large pair of pants!
This is one of the best things to do in Kansas City, especially if you find yourself craving real southern barbecue.
Blue Gallery
While there is no denying that blue is the primary color at the Blue Gallery in Kansas City, there are a number of other colors as well.
The Blue Gallery features a number of gorgeous works from local artists as well as those from around the country.
The art of sophistication rises as you enter the Blue Gallery
The gallery features the works of such prominent artists as Amy Abshier, Lisa Lala, and Eric Zener.
There are a number of unique works that include sculpture and paintings. Some of these come as realistic while others are more in the form of abstract.
However, they are all beautiful in one form or another. You will fall into the beauty of the art and be mesmerized by the level of detail that can be seen.
The Blue Gallery is open from Thursday thru Saturday 11–4 pm, with private appointments also available.
118 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 6410
Boulevard Brewing Company
This is a local stttraction that you will not be able to bring the kids to, however, it is the best in kansas City if you have a love for local brews.
The Boulevard Brewing Company allows you to see just what goes into making your favorite brew.
The brewery focuses of quality with local flare.
There is no free to visit the brewery and you get to sip on various types of beer. I think we can say this is a win-win scenario thus far! Some of the myust try beers from Boulevard Brewing include Jam Band and 80-Acre.
They will also rock some seasonal blends throughout the year including Zon and Hibiscus Gose. Regardless of the typical beer you enjoy, there is going to be something here that you fall in love with.
Tasting all of the beers at this amazing local Kansas City brewery can be the highlight of your day!
In order to fully enjoy the day, open up your palate and really tatse the beers, Look at the color, smell the flavors and really taste these blends as they are truly unique.
2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
City Market
Farmer’s Markets have become an increasingly popular attraction in cities across the nation not only due to the fresh goods but the general atmosphere they promote.
One of the best things to do in Kansas City is walk the City Market and enjoy all of the fresh local goods and entertainment.
The City Market was established in 1857 and now you have the opportunity to seek out goods from local farmers and crafts people in the heart of downtown Kansas City.
The market is crowded with locals and tourists on any given day and makes for a fun time.
Regardless of what you have a taste for, you will more than likely find it at the City Market. You will find some of the finest produce and meats all local at the market available for purchase.
One of my personal favorites is the selection of pastries. The delight of a homemade pastry at the City Market always marks the end of a special day in Kansas City.
20 E 5th St, Kansas City, MO 64106-1102
Country Club Plaza
One thing that Kansas City is really known for is its excellant selection of shopping. It is true that you can shop in every city across the country, however, only Kansas City has the Country Club Plaza.
The Plaza offers the most luxurious in shopping and dining.
The thrill of shopping at well over 100 stores reaches an unprecendented climax at the Country Club.
There are a number of shops within the Country Club Plaza inlcuding Tiffany, Apple and J. Crew.
Spending an afternoon at the Country Club Plaza is going to bring back some spectacular finds and great memories
Even if you are not a tried and true shopper there are plenty of fun activities at the Country Club Plaza.
If you have a taste for flavorful food, you can check out Jack Stack Barbecue or P.F. Chang’s.
The Plaza also features a number of special events throughout the year including art displays and live music. The plaza features so much to do, a full day at the Plaza is possible.
4706 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112
Crown Center
One of the shining exhibits in the Kansas City area is the Crown Center.
If you are looking for something fun and entertaining In Kansas City, you need to set your sights on the Crown Center.
Located in a gorgeous area of downtown Kansas City, it features fountains and multiple entertainment venues. This is the place to be for a family affair or a fun first date!
Crown Center has become one of the most popular destinations in Kansas City with locals and tourists alike due to all of the unique activities available.
For the ultimate shopping experience, you can browse through Toy Time, Plethora, and Wilderness Reflections. And if your stomach starts to growl, there are few better places than SPIN Pizza, D’Bronx, and Curry in a Hurry.
Crown Center also features movies and live music throughout the week. This is an incredible destination any time of the year in this gorgeous city.
2450 Grand Boulevard; Kansas City, MO 64108
Independence Temple
It is possible to travel the globe and never come across an attraction such as the Independence Temple!
Located just outside of Kansas City, this temple located in Independence has been a favorite among tourists for years.
While it is gorgeous to look at, you are also going to learn from it as well.
Built in 1994 by the Community of Christ, this is truly a magnificent education and architectual acheivement.
In fact, it is looked upon as being one of the most esteemed faith based building in America. The 300-foot spire leading into the clouds is truly awe-inspiring.
The temple was not built soloely for grandeour and opulance. The Community of Christ uses this building primarily for teachings.
For those who want to seek out their religion and have a better understanding and relationship with God, should take an afternoon and visit.
Whether you simply want an area to meditate and think or sit for a weekend service, Independence Temple can help you come together with your faith.
1001 W Walnut St, Independence, MO 64050
Kauffman Center For The Performing Arts
Every great city will have at least one building that is dedicated to the fine arts. In Kansas City, this building is the Kauffman Center For The Performing Arts.
This is a gorgeous building that hosts a number of events throughout the year.
The Kansas City Symphony performs here and these are not to be missed shows. For those in love with the art of dance can be entertained by the Kansas City Ballet.
A number of high profile artists also visit the Kauffman Center For The Performing Arts during the year.
To be honest, just the architecture of the Kauffman Center is something to take in. The building was designed by acclaimed architect, Moshe Safdie, and it is a true masterpiece to take in while on vacation in Kansas City.
If you have the desire for a night out with the arts, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is the perfect destination.
1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Kansas City Speedway
Have you ever seen a NASCAR race on television? Well let me tell you they are not as spectacular as seeing them live and in person.
As you enter the Kansas City Speedway, you will feel your adrenaline begin to pump as you hear the roar of the engines.
You can sense the excitment in the air, even if you are not a race enthusiast. This is the type of attraction that draws so many people to Kansas City every single year.
And if the thrill of the race does not get you pumped, maybe you would like to get behind the wheel instead?
The Richard Petty Driving Experience at Kansas City Speedway is going to allow you the chance to get behind the wheel.
You can either take full control of the vehicle or let a trained driver whiz you around the track! There is nothing quite like the experience of being in one of these race cars!
In fact, there are few better ways of spending a sunny summer afternoon than by hanging out at the Kansas City Raceway!
Everyone will love to pick a favorite racecar and see who finsihes first! If you are wanting to kick your Kansas City vacation into high gear, this is one of the prime destinations to do so!
400 Speedway Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111
Kansas City Public Library
I already know what you are thinking…a library? And while I would agree with you a library seems a rather dull addition to the best of the best in Kansas City, I can assure you that you have not seen a library quite like this. The outside of the Kansas City Public Library is absolutely gorgeous.
You will also find the giant size bookshelf that feature 9-foot books…talk about easy reading print!
If you are interested in the overall history of the library, you can ask for a tour. On Saturdays, the library features hour long tours that will go in depth about the history of this grand library.
You will find out about the story that took this once First national Bank and transformed it into the gorgeous library you see today.
Even if you are not an avid reader, the Kansas City Public Library should be on every Best Kansas City destination list.
14 W 10th St, Kansas City, MO 64105
Kansas City Zoo
Missiouri is deep rooted in southern hospitality and that smame focus is spent on animals they are entrusted to care for.
You will see that sense of pride at the Kansas City Zoo with all of the various animal species they care for.
It may be hard to believe, but the zoo holds well over a century of conservation efforts.
An afternoon trip to zoo is going to bring the family face to face to a number of animal species. As you walk the pathways of the zoo, you can check out penguins, chimpanzees, leopards, and African elephants.
Every exhibit in the zoo is mindful of helping guests to understand the specific needs of each animal.
And there is nothing quite like a day of watching an elephant paint a picture right before your eyes!
If you are going to be in the Kansas City area, a trip to the zoo is a must!
6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132
Kauffman Memorial Garden
We really understand how hard it is to try and choose the best things to see and do in Kansas City. Many people get so overwhelmed trying to see everything that they really dont see anything at all.
If you want an attraction that is going to stimulate all of your senses but relax you at the same time, head on over to the Kauffman Memorial Garden
The gardens were named after beloved local couple Ewing and Muriel Kauffman, this is another unique area to visit while in Kansas City.
Who knew you could have so much fun and be this entertained in gardens? Additionally, there is no admission charge, making it perfect for families visiting Kansas City on a budget.
The Kauffman family had a very positive influence on the kansas City area. Whihc is more than likely one of the main reasons these gorgeous meorial gardens were named after them.
4800 Rockhill Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110
Kemper Museum Of Contemporary Art
You may have noticed that we have featured a number of art museums already. This is due to the fact that The Kemper Museum Of Contemporary Art features a wide array of exhibits that anyone will love.
If you have an eye for art, the Kemper Museum Of Contemporary Art is perhaps one of the best destinations in Kansas City.
The Kemper Museum Of Contemporary Art has been opened for over 25 years and has shown a wide variety of pieces that have impressed the Kansas City area.
Some pieces featured in the museum includes works by Francis Bacon, Magdalena Abakanowicz, and Tina Barney. The museum also has a number of rotating exhibits allowing for a new experience for regular visitors.
Unlike some other art museums you may have visited in the past, Kempler tries to cater to individual age groups. The have exhibits and programs geared toward children, teens, and adults.
The musesum wants to show that art can be loved and appreciated at any age.
4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Leila’s Hair Museum
Who would have evver expected to walk the streets of Kansas City and come face to face with a hair museum? However, this is another hidden gem you are going to find in this fabulous city. The name gives it away, but there is so much more to this museum than just hair.
Some people are actually creeped out thinking that hiar is going to line the walls and floors, but it really is much more.
This is actually one of the top things to do in Kansas City iof you are looking for something totally different and off the wall.
The museum is named for the curator Leila Cohoon and depicts the beauty of hair art.
Over the centuries, there have been incredible works of art that have been created with hair including jewelry and wreaths. Throughout the museum you will see incredible brooches and necklaces that were designed with hair.
Hair has a long been associated with romance, especially before the invention of photographs.
The history and beauty found in this museum is overwhelming and much more than you would ever expect.
Leila will more than likely take you on a personal tour of the museum and show you the beauty that can be found in hair and leave you with a new appreciation in art.
1333 S Noland Rd, Independence, MO 64055
Loose Park
We can be honest and admit that with a name like Loose park, you may not be sure what you are getting into. However, this is a top destination for families in Kansas City.
In fact, it is one of the best local attractions for a relaxing afternoon on the city. There are so many activities to be found throughout the park from relaxing to exciting.
Featuring over 75 beautiful acres, you will find your share of fun at Loose Park. You may choose an afternoon picnic, let the kids go wild in the playground, or try your hand at a game of tennis.
If you a looking for a full afternoon of excitement, there is no better solution than the Loose Park Sprayground on a hot summer day.
Also, be sure to take a walk through the garden center to complete your visit.
There is an extensive amount of history to be found at Loose Park as well. In fact, Loose park is a favorite desintation of Civil War buffs.
This area was used by soldiers to hold an advantage over the enemy line.
5200 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112
Money Museum
The Kansas City Federal Reserve bank is an excellant destination to learn more about money than you ever thought possible. In fact, you will soon find that it means so much more to society than just buying your daily Starbucks!
The Money Museum is going to take you on a journey of how moncey has changed through the years starting out as gold bars and slowly transforming to the paper and coin currency we use today.
Additionally, you will appreciate the artisitc nature that money has, that you may never have noticed. In fact, there are a number of coins and paper money that could be comnsidered works of art.
The museum is open during normal business hours and there is no need for reservations. Additionally, there is no entry fee, which makes this a very budget friendly destination.
If you like to dive deeper into area attractions, try the audio tour. And when leaving you will be gifted a bag of shredded money that will leave you with a real sense of history.
As you hold that shredded money in your hand, just think of the journey it has had!
1 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64198
National Airline History Museum
There is no question about how air travel changed the course of human history.
The Airline History Museum brings this history directly to you and shows you how life has been bettered through this innovation.
This is one of the absolute best destinations in Kansas City for those who love history and love learning.
The museum features daily tours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. between Wednesday and Sunday.
You will have the opportunity to check out some of the most impressive aircrafts that have been built.
There is no charge for children under the age of twelve and everyone else is charged a very low admission and it is well worth it to check out the Curtis Condor and Boeing 727-223.
Additionally, the mueseum features incredible flight simulators that let you take to the sky via your own persoanl cockpit.
If you want to spread your wings and fly while in Kansas City, the National Airline Museum is the perfect destination.
201 NW Lou Holland Dr, Kansas City, MO 64116
National Museum Of Toys And Miniatures
There is just something about toys and miniatures that can really put a smile on your face. And the National Museum Of Toys And Miniatures is ready to put the biggest smile on your face.
This is one of those Kansas City attractions that has the ability to deleight every single visitor.
You would be hard pressed to find a better collection of toys than you will here.
The museum features a number of exhibits that feature a wide assortment of figurines, doll houses and board games.
The miniatures you will find in the museum have been crafted with the utmost of care and detail. You will be amazed at the skill that has gone into these incredible pieces.
As you would expect from a museum dedicated to toys and miniatures, it is a very family-friendly destination.
The admission for the museum is super affordable and for children under the age of five, it is free.
If you want to get in touch with your younger self or just want to have some fun reminiscing with toys, the National Museum Of Toys And Miniatures is the perfect destination.
5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112
National World War I Museum And Memorial
World War 1 began on July 28, 1914 and thankfully there are attractions such as this one in Kansas City that have not forgotten.
There is no other museum that features as many world war 1 artifacts as this one.
The heroism of those that fought in so many battles in an effort to protect peace and freedom for others will not be forgotten here.
This is one of the most popular attractions in Kansas City due to the feeling of patriotism it offers.
The overall story of the Great War is told to visitors through a series of videos and exhibits from those that were thetre.
While they may not be with us anymore, their story is able to live on and educate future generations.
The displays within the museum are expertly crafted and extraordinary.
Beleive it or not, there is an exceptional Renault FT-17 tank in the museum for viewing as well as the trenches that soldiers would hunker down in.
Perhaps what sets this mueseum aside are the audio transcripts of letters written by the soldiers on the battlefront.
One feels as though they are fighting alongside these brave soldiers at this amazing museum.
2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
The achievements of early black athletes have long gone unnoticed and they must be acknowledged especially with the added difficulties of being an athlete during these times.
Another of the top attraction in Kansas City is a day at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Hwether you consider yourself a fan of baseball or not, you will enjoy the story of these memorable baseball heroes.
If you are looking for an attraction that is going to offer up lesson as well as entertainment in Kansas City, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is an excellant choice.
1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Nelson Atkins Museum
The Nelson Atkins Museum allows visitors to see a wide range of art from all over the globe.
The museum features works from Europe, Asia, and Africa. Each piece that the museum features is unique to the region it was produced in.
The wonders in this museum will keep you entertained for hours.
The outside of the building features 19 foot hight badminton shuttlecocks that were artistically created ny Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen.
Indoors, you will find a wide assortment of collections that will stir your emotions and give you much to reflect on.
Nelson Atkins Museum offers free admission making this yet another great family bidget travel idea in Kansas City.
4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Plaza Art Fair
If you will be visiting Kansas City during the Fall season, you will want to try and schedule some time at the Plasa Art Fair, which is usually held during a September weekend.
During this weekend, you will find some of the best art in Kansas City! Additionally, it really brings out the community spirit in Kansas City and makes a vacation here even more welcoming.
Everything you are going to find at the Plaza Art Flair is what helps to make it one of the best travel destinations in Kansas City. It is a great time as you expeirence the art, music, and food.
The fiar brings in hundreds of artists who are more than happy to share their work with you. This is one of the best art showcases that can be found in the United States for locals and tourists alike.
SEA LIFE Kansas City
There are countless wonders under the sea that are just to difficult for the average person to find and see.
The SEA LIFE Kansas City brings the sea to you nad your family allowing for a fun-filled day with a number of exhibits and mermaid encounters.
The exhibits bring fresh and salt water marine life right to you in Kansas City.
Throughout the aquarium you can come fact to face with seahorses, stingrays, and sharks. There is also a friendly neighborhood octopus and sea turtles.
The aquarium puts forth the best offer in providing large areas for swimming and play.
A trip to the Kansas City Aquarium is the perfect family excursion for a day of fun and learning.
Children under the age of three are admitted for free. If you happen to be visiting Kansas City during a child’s birthday, check out their incredible birthday packages.
2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
T-Mobile Center
Despite its name, this has nothing to do with cellular phones! It is actually one of the best things to do in Kansas City.
The T-Mobile Center holds a number of events throughout the year.
You can find music and sports at any given time, including the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
The T-Mobile Center is an absolute must for any fan of basketball.
The T-Mobile Center features the College Basketball Experience which features the many triumphs of college basketball legends, many who would go on and play at a professional level.
The experience is perfect for fans of all ages.
The stadium has seating for up to 19,000 fans and is state of the art.
In addition, there is plenty of prime food around the area including Providence and Yard House.
If you want a local Kansas City experience that you will remember, be sure to check out the T-Mobile Center.
1407 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Starlight Theatre
Just the name alone should take you back to an era long gone, however, the Starlight Theatre is still open and ready to show you the time of your life in Kansas City.
Opened in 1951, the Starlight Theatre more than likely has a number of stories it could tell oif walls had the ability to talk.
However, in the here and now it offers a wide range of entertainmnet venues.
For those who are in the Kansas City area and would like to see some live entertainment, you can check out the Starlight Theatre.
The theater has brought a number of broadway style plays and musicals to countless satisfied guests.
If you have the desire to sing a long with your favorite musical, make sure you make this a priority on your list of Kansas City destinations
There are a number of musical concerts throughout the year at the Starlight as well. Just a few of the past acts that have made the Starlight home for the evening have been Tony Bennett, The Beach Boys, and Willie Nelson.
Just entering the doors of this historic theater are going to show you just why this is such a popular Kansas City destinations.
4600 Starlight Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132
Union Station
Back in the day, if you wanted to get somewhere realitively fast, you would hop onboard a train.
Train travel is somewhat dated today and not as many people will travel in by train. However, Union Station is still a destination you should try to see while in Kansas City.
Throughout much effort, the station has been refurbished and is absolutely stunning today.
And this is another one of those free attractions, which is perfect for families looking for budget friendly options in Kansas City. The station does host opther attraction which do cost a small fee.
All within the station, you will find the Science City Museum, a planeterium, and a movie stheater. So, it truly is a one stop destination for a day of fun!
This is considered to be one of the top Kansas City destinations dues to all the localized attractions. In addition, it is an absolutely stunning location.
For history buffs, there is an insurmountable amount of history here.
Union Station was established back in 1914 and would eventually be shut down in the 1980’s. The station would once again open its doors in 1999 allowing the people to ride the rails once again in Kansas City.
The station has incredible 95 foot ceilings adorned with three stunning chandeliers, bringing you back to a time a life that was simple.
30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Worlds Of Fun
When you see something listed as a “World of Fun”, your expectations are going to be raised.
However, in the Kansas City area, Worlds of Funs is truly a destinatuon for a fun time!
This amusement park offers something for the entire family to enjoy for a fun-filled afternoon.
One of the top tickets at this Kansas City amusement park are the incredible roller coasters. If you love the thrill of a giant drop or multiple twirls, you will want to make your way to the line for Prowler, Patriot, or Timber Wolf.
Some of their other thrill rides include Detonator, Falcon’s Flight, and the amazing Bamboozler.
They also have a number of aquatic adventures at Worlds of Fun which are pefect for those hot Kansas City summer afternoons. You can check out the exciting wave pool, water slides, or just take a ride on the cool lazy river.
If you are looking for a day of family fun in Kansas City, this is the attraction!
4545 Worlds of Fun Ave, Kansas City, MO 64161
Visitors travel to Kansas City to enjoy the hospitality, attractions, and maybe a sense of curiosiry.
The best piece of advice I can offer about a trip to kansas City is to look over the above list again and jot down the activies and destinations you would like to see the most.
If you have other individuals or family members joining you in your travels to Kansas City, talk over their interests. You all may need to compromise about which attractions will be visited during the trave;s.
However, you may end up going somewhere that you never would have thought of and enjoy it.