As the nation’s most centrally located city, Kansas City ought to be called the heart of the United States. While the name itself evokes cornfields and rolling hills, this city is also known as the “cradle of jazz” in the north. The unique culture of Kansas City can be seen at its many museums, live music venues, and hometown eateries. Visitors come from across the country and arrive by car, by plane, and by train. Kansas City’s famous Union Station sits atop an Amtrak line that runs east to St. Louis and Chicago and west all the way to L.A. Keep scrolling to discover all you need to do on a stop through this friendly city.
As the nation’s most centrally located city, Kansas City ought to be called the heart of the United States. While the name itself evokes cornfields and rolling hills, this city is also known as the “cradle of jazz” in the north. The unique culture of Kansas City can be seen at its many museums, live music venues, and hometown eateries. Visitors come from across the country and arrive by car, by plane, and by train. Kansas City’s famous Union Station sits atop an Amtrak line that runs east to St. Louis and Chicago and west all the way to L.A. Keep scrolling to discover all you need to do on a stop through this friendly city.
Sophisticated streets and expansive boulevards make it easy to get to the variety of places to visit in Kansas City. If Crossroads District feels crowded, visit Westport for a more laid back atmosphere.
The best activities do near Kansas City include:
Bring the kids to Worlds of Fun Theme Park to explore over 235-acres of amusement park attractions
Learn about Asian calligraphy, global costume design, and African history through art at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Make friends with the toucans at Kansas City Zoo
See a planetarium show inside Kansas City’s Union Station, which also houses permanent & temporary exhibits
Explore the most comprehensive collection of WWI objects in the world at the National WWI Museum and Memorial
NFL fans should snag a ticket to Arrowhead Stadium to see the Kansas City Chiefs. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Plaza Art Fair which features artists from across the United States.
Popular attractions near Kansas City include:
After wandering through the exhibits at Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy contemporary cuisine at Café Sebastienne
Walk the trails that wind through woodlands in Swope Park before exploring the treetop adventure park
Sip a local brew inside the tasting room at Boulevard Brewing Company
Bike the pathways that parallel the winding Missouri River at English Landing Park in nearby Parkville
See a thrilling Broadway show at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
Kansas City is home to Verrückt, the Guinness Book of World Records holder for the world’s tallest water slide. Try ascending those 264 steps before taking the plunge.
Exciting activities happening near Kansas City today include:
Venture through the wooded hills and limestone outcroppings at Roanoke Park
Explore the colorful botanic garden at Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
Uncover a treasure trove of information at the Money Museum
Learn about the historic settlement of the American West at the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence, MO
Tour the Vaile Mansion, a perfectly-preserved Victorian mansion with themed rooms
This jazz-lovin’ city offers a unique variety of nightlife activities. See a live band perform downtown, or sample locally distilled spirits after enjoying a play at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
Nighttime attractions near Kansas City include:
Visit the first legal distillery in Kansas City since prohibition at Tom’s Town Distilling Co.
Play retro arcade games while sipping cocktails inside the funky Up-Down KC arcade bar
See a contemporary play inside Unicorn Theater, which produces play never before seen locally
Catch a blockbuster movie showing at the B & B 1-70 Drive-In
Tickle your funny bone at a local comedy show at ComedyCity
Find fun for all ages at one of Kansas City’s many kid-friendly attractions. Parents and kids can learn something new at Science City before putting the world under a microscope at the Miniatures Museum.
Family-friendly things to do near Kansas City include:
Visit Science City at Union Station to experience a variety of interactive science exhibits
Splash around at Oceans of Fun Water Park after visiting Worlds of Fun next door
Stretch your imagination inside the Lego Ideas Studio at Legoland Discovery Center
Attend a kid-friendly creative arts & crafts session for free at Kaleidoscope
Explore a miniature world, from jewelry to furniture, at the Toys and Miniatures Museum
When going outside doesn’t fit the mood, Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa touts 1,500 slot machines and 37 tables games. After hitting it big, visit a winery or the public library to unwind.
Things to do indoors near Kansas City include:
Lounge amongst the books at Kansas City Public Library
Tour the Harley Davidson Factory and learn all about the history of the motorbike
Sip wine inside Amigoni Urban Winery
Embark on a quest for hidden art on a scavenger hunt of the Nelson-Atkins Museum
Wander amongst American relics inside the National Archives building
Sports and Outdoor Activities in Kansas CityView All
Outdoor attractions beckon locals and travellers alike to Kansas City. Golf at one of the city’s premier golf courses. Then, enjoy a leisurely bike ride through downtown proper.
Outdoor activities in Kansas City include:
Rent a bike near J C Nichols Memorial Fountain and explore the area
Swim in Lake Jacamo, a 970-acre freshwater reservoir located near blue Springs
Relax on the park benches nestled along the trails at Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Explore the colonnade before playing disc golf at Kessler Park
Tee off on the green at Swope Memorial Golf Course