Located in the heart of the Midwest, Kansas City is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. From its rich jazz heritage to its world-renowned barbecue, Kansas City is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of exciting places to visit in Kansas City. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top attractions and activities to add to your itinerary.
Get ultimate traveler plannerHistoric Landmarks and Museums
Kansas City is home to a rich history, and there are plenty of historic landmarks and museums to explore. One of the most iconic landmarks is the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which honors the sacrifices of those who served in the war. The museum features interactive exhibits, photographs, and personal stories that bring the history of the war to life.
Another must-visit museum is the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of over 35,000 works of art. The museum’s collection includes pieces from around the world, including European and American paintings, sculpture, and photography. The museum’s outdoor sculpture garden is also a must-see, with over 80 works of art on display.
The Arabia Steamboat Museum is another unique attraction that’s not to be missed. The museum is located in a historic warehouse and features artifacts from the Arabia steamboat, which sank in the Missouri River in 1856. The museum’s collection includes over 160,000 artifacts, including dishes, furniture, and even a piano.
Outdoor Activities
Kansas City has plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. One of the most popular outdoor spots is the Kansas City Zoo, which is home to over 1,300 animals from around the world. The zoo also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and animal encounters.
For those who love the great outdoors, the Kauffman Memorial Garden is a must-visit. The garden features over 20 acres of beautiful gardens, including a sensory garden, a children’s garden, and a variety of plant species. The garden also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts and gardening classes.
The Missouri River is another popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The river offers a variety of water activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour to learn more about the river’s history and ecology. (See Also: Where to Visit in Wyoming? Unveiling Wonders)
Food and Drink
Kansas City is famous for its barbecue, and there are plenty of delicious restaurants to try. One of the most iconic barbecue joints is Arthur Bryant’s, which has been serving up classic Kansas City-style barbecue since 1952. Another popular spot is Gates Bar-B-Q, which has been featured on the Food Network and other TV shows.
But barbecue isn’t the only delicious option in Kansas City. The city is also home to a variety of international cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, and Asian. Visitors can also try some of the city’s famous fountains, which offer a variety of flavors and cuisines.
For those who love craft beer, Kansas City has a thriving brewery scene. Some popular breweries include Boulevard Brewing Company, which offers tours and tastings, and Kansas City Bier Company, which features a variety of German-style beers. Visitors can also take a brewery tour to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of the city’s best beers.
Arts and Culture
Kansas City has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and performance venues. One of the most popular museums is the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, which features a variety of modern and contemporary art exhibits. The museum also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts and lectures.
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is another unique attraction that’s not to be missed. The museum features a collection of over 70,000 toys and miniatures, including dolls, trains, and other childhood favorites. The museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for kids.
The Kansas City Symphony is another popular cultural attraction. The symphony performs a variety of classical music concerts throughout the year, including performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the symphony’s rehearsal space to learn more about the music-making process.
Shopping and Entertainment
Kansas City has a variety of shopping and entertainment options, from boutiques and malls to comedy clubs and live music venues. One of the most popular shopping destinations is the Country Club Plaza, which features a variety of high-end boutiques and restaurants. Visitors can also take a stroll through the plaza’s beautiful gardens and fountains. (See Also: Where to Visit in France in March? Springtime Escapes)
The Power and Light District is another popular entertainment destination. The district features a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as a variety of live music venues and comedy clubs. Visitors can also catch a movie at the district’s state-of-the-art movie theater.
The Kansas City Live Stock Exchange is another unique attraction that’s not to be missed. The exchange features a variety of live music and comedy performances, as well as a variety of food and drink options. Visitors can also take a tour of the exchange’s historic building to learn more about its history and significance.
Recap
Kansas City is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its delicious food and drink options, there are plenty of exciting places to visit in Kansas City. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of attractions and activities to add to your itinerary. In this article, we’ve explored some of the top attractions and activities to consider, from historic landmarks and museums to outdoor activities and entertainment options.
Here are some of the top attractions and activities to consider:
- National World War I Museum and Memorial
- Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- Arabia Steamboat Museum
- Kansas City Zoo
- Kauffman Memorial Garden
- Missouri River
- Arthur Bryant’s
- Gates Bar-B-Q
- Boulevard Brewing Company
- Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
- National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
- Kansas City Symphony
- Country Club Plaza
- Power and Light District
- Kansas City Live Stock Exchange
FAQs
What are some of the top attractions in Kansas City?
Kansas City is home to a variety of top attractions, including the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the Arabia Steamboat Museum. The city is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including the Kansas City Zoo and the Kauffman Memorial Garden.
What are some of the best places to eat in Kansas City?
Kansas City is famous for its barbecue, and there are plenty of delicious restaurants to try. Some popular spots include Arthur Bryant’s, Gates Bar-B-Q, and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. The city is also home to a variety of international cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, and Asian. (See Also: Where to Visit in Suffolk? Hidden Gems Await)
What are some of the best breweries in Kansas City?
Kansas City has a thriving brewery scene, with a variety of craft breweries to choose from. Some popular spots include Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City Bier Company, and Martin City Brewing Company. Visitors can also take a brewery tour to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of the city’s best beers.
What are some of the best museums in Kansas City?
Kansas City is home to a variety of world-class museums, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the National World War I Museum and Memorial, and the Arabia Steamboat Museum. The city is also home to a variety of smaller museums, including the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.
What are some of the best outdoor activities in Kansas City?
Kansas City has plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. The city is also home to a variety of parks and gardens, including the Kauffman Memorial Garden and the Kansas City Zoo. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour of the Missouri River to learn more about the river’s history and ecology.
