Kansas City, Missouri, known as the “City of Fountains,” is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a fan of the arts, Kansas City has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Kansas City:
The museum stands at the site of the Liberty Memorial, a memorial tower dedicated in 1926 to honor the men and women who served in World War I. It was designated by Congress as the official World War I Museum for the United States. The museum’s architecture is striking, with the centerpiece being the Liberty Memorial Tower. The tower stands 217 feet tall and provides a panoramic view of the city. The museum’s architecture and design evoke a sense of solemnity and remembrance, making it a fitting tribute to the war and its impact.
This world-class art museum is renowned for its diverse collection, which includes works from ancient to contemporary times. The museum is known for its iconic Shuttlecocks sculpture on the lawn and features art from various cultures and periods. Don’t miss the Bloch Building, an architectural marvel that houses contemporary art.
Dive into history at the Arabia Steamboat Museum, where you can explore the preserved artifacts recovered from the sunken steamboat Arabia. Learn about life in the 1800s and see a fascinating collection of everyday items, including clothing, tools, and even food.
Kansas City played a significant role in the history of baseball’s Negro Leagues, and this museum pays tribute to the players, teams, and the impact they had on the sport. The museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that tell the story of the Negro Leagues and its important place in American history.
The zoo is home to more than 1,700 animals from all corners of the globe. You can encounter animals ranging from elephants, giraffes, and lions to penguins, kangaroos, and gorillas. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to provide natural habitats for the animals, allowing visitors to observe them up close. One of the most popular attractions at the zoo is the Helzberg Penguin Plaza. This immersive exhibit recreates the Antarctic environment and offers a chance to see several species of penguins as they swim, waddle, and play.
Ideal for families and science enthusiasts, Science City offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that engage visitors of all ages. Discover the wonders of science through experiments, demonstrations, and immersive experiences.
Delve into the world of toys and miniatures at this unique museum. Marvel at the impressive collection of antique dolls, dollhouses, miniatures, and other playthings that span centuries of history.
The Money Museum, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a unique and informative attraction that offers visitors a fascinating look into the world of money and its history. The Money Museum is housed within the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. This gives visitors a chance to explore the inner workings of one of the twelve regional banks that make up the Federal Reserve System in the United States.
Kaleidoscope is all about inspiring creativity in children. The facility provides a variety of art materials and supplies, allowing kids to explore their imagination and create unique works of art. From painting to drawing, sculpting to collage, there are endless possibilities for artistic expression. One of the distinct features of Kaleidoscope is its emphasis on using recycled materials in the art projects. Children have the opportunity to repurpose and transform everyday objects into new and imaginative artworks. This focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness adds an extra layer of educational value to the experience.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Loose Park, a beautiful urban green space known for its picturesque rose garden. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or enjoy recreational activities such as jogging, biking, or playing sports.
Worlds of Fun is known for its exhilarating rides that cater to all levels of thrill-seekers. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the Mamba and Prowler to family-friendly rides such as the Zulu and the Grand Carousel, there’s something for everyone. The park offers a variety of live entertainment options, including musical performances, stage shows, and street performers. Catch a show or enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore the park.
The American Jazz Museum, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a renowned institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and cultural significance of jazz music. The American Jazz Museum is situated in the historic 18th & Vine District, which was once a thriving center for African American culture and jazz music during the 1920s and 1930s. The museum pays homage to the influential jazz musicians and the vibrant jazz scene that emerged in Kansas City during that era.
The museum houses a remarkable collection of historic aircraft, including fully restored and operational planes. Visitors can get up close to iconic aircraft such as the Lockheed Constellation (“Connie”), a Boeing 727, and a Martin 404. These aircraft offer a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and craftsmanship of vintage planes.
The museum showcases the rich history of TWA, which was one of the major airlines in the United States from its inception in 1925 until its merger with American Airlines in 2001. Learn about the airline’s pioneering spirit, its significant role in aviation advancements, and its contribution to the growth of commercial air travel.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the contemporary works on display at the Kemper Museum. The museum features rotating exhibitions, a permanent collection, and educational programs that showcase modern artistic expressions.
16. Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site
The site includes the former residence of Thomas Hart Benton, a significant figure in American art history. The home provides a glimpse into the personal life and creative environment of the artist. Visitors can explore the rooms and spaces where Benton lived, worked, and entertained guests. The historic site features Benton’s studio, where he produced many of his renowned paintings. The studio provides insights into Benton’s artistic process and the techniques he employed. Art enthusiasts can appreciate the space where Benton brought his artistic visions to life.
The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden is a beautiful and tranquil oasis located in Kansas City, Missouri. Dedicated to the memory of Ewing and Muriel Kauffman, the founders of the Kauffman Foundation and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, the garden offers visitors a serene escape and a place to appreciate the beauty of nature. The garden spans around 2 acres and features meticulously maintained landscaping, including lush lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a variety of trees and shrubs. The design of the garden reflects the principles of balance, harmony, and symmetry, creating a visually pleasing environment.
The J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is an iconic landmark located on the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri. Dedicated to the memory of Jesse Clyde Nichols, a prominent Kansas City developer who played a significant role in the city’s urban planning and development, the fountain has become a symbol of the city’s beauty and charm.
The museum features a variety of mind-bending exhibits designed to challenge your senses and perception. From rooms that appear to defy gravity to installations that play tricks on your eyes, each exhibit offers an immersive experience that will leave you questioning your own perceptions. Get ready to be amazed by a wide array of optical illusions that showcase the power of visual trickery. Explore exhibits that make objects appear larger or smaller than they actually are, witness images that seem to move or change depending on your perspective, and encounter illusions that challenge your understanding of depth and perception.
The Shoal Creek Living History Museum is a unique open-air museum located in Kansas City, Missouri. Situated on 80 acres of beautiful wooded land, the museum provides visitors with a glimpse into the daily life and history of 19th-century America. The museum features more than 20 historic structures that have been relocated from their original locations and meticulously restored. These buildings include log cabins, barns, a schoolhouse, a general store, a blacksmith shop, and a church, among others. Each building represents a different aspect of pioneer life and provides a tangible connection to the past.
The Kansas City Museum is housed in Corinthian Hall, a stunning Beaux-Arts mansion built in 1910. The mansion itself is an architectural gem, with grand staircases, ornate details, and beautifully preserved interiors. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship and elegance of the building while exploring its various exhibits and displays. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Kansas City’s history, showcasing the city’s growth, development, and cultural heritage. Exhibits highlight key moments in Kansas City’s past, such as the city’s role in the westward expansion, its jazz and blues music legacy, and its contributions to the arts and culture.
The central focus of IHOP is continuous prayer and worship. The organization maintains a 24/7 prayer room where worship teams lead live musical worship and intercession around the clock. Participants engage in prayer sessions individually or in groups, seeking to cultivate a lifestyle of prayer and intimacy with God.
The John Wornall House is a historic museum located in Kansas City, Missouri. Built in 1858, the house is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture and provides visitors with a glimpse into the daily life of a prominent 19th-century family. The John Wornall House is a meticulously restored and preserved historic house that showcases the lifestyle and history of the Wornall family. The house contains original furnishings, artifacts, and decorative elements that offer a glimpse into the family’s life during the mid-19th century.
The Bay Water Park offers a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages. It features several water slides, including tube slides and body slides, providing thrilling experiences for those seeking excitement. There are also interactive water play areas and splash pads for younger children to enjoy.
The Springs Aquatic Center offers a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages. It features multiple water slides, including thrilling slides for those seeking excitement and gentler slides for younger children. There may also be a lazy river where visitors can relax and float along a gentle current.
Swope Park is home to beautiful natural landscapes and extensive trails, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The park features scenic wooded areas, rolling hills, and open spaces, providing opportunities for walking, jogging, biking, and hiking. The park’s trails vary in length and difficulty, allowing visitors to choose paths that suit their preferences.
The Cave Spring Interpretive Center is a unique attraction located within Swope Park in Kansas City, Missouri. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the natural and cultural history of Cave Spring, a historically significant site within the park. The highlight of the interpretive center is the Cave Spring itself. This natural spring has been a source of fresh water for centuries and holds historical and cultural significance. Visitors can learn about the geological formation of the spring and its importance to early settlers and Native American communities in the region.
Richard L. Berkley Riverfront Park is a popular recreational area located along the Missouri River in Kansas City, Missouri. Named in honor of Richard L. Berkley, a former Kansas City mayor, the park offers a picturesque setting and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The park’s prime location along the Missouri River provides stunning views of the water and the Kansas City skyline. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas and capture memorable photos of the riverfront and its surroundings.
The Royals Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for baseball fans in Kansas City, Missouri. Located inside Kauffman Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Royals, the Hall of Fame celebrates the rich history and achievements of the franchise. The Royals Hall of Fame features engaging exhibits and displays that chronicle the team’s history from its inception in 1969 to the present day. You can explore artifacts, memorabilia, photographs, and interactive displays that showcase the team’s iconic moments, notable players, and significant achievements.
The Alexander Majors House Museum & Barn is a historic site located in Kansas City, Missouri. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the life and times of Alexander Majors, a prominent figure in the development of the American West during the mid-19th century. The main attraction of the museum is the Alexander Majors House, a beautiful Victorian-style home that has been restored to its 1856 appearance. Guided tours take visitors through the different rooms of the house, showcasing the period furnishings, artifacts, and personal belongings of the Majors family. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history of the house and the lifestyle of the Majors family during that era.
The American Royal hosts a variety of livestock shows, including cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, and more. These shows highlight the best of the region’s livestock and offer opportunities for breeders, exhibitors, and spectators to engage in agricultural competitions and displays. The American Royal is known for its exciting rodeos and equestrian events. Spectators can witness thrilling rodeo performances featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and roping competitions. Additionally, there may be horse shows, dressage competitions, and other equestrian activities held at the complex.
Clark’s Point Monument is situated near the intersection of 3rd Street and Grand Boulevard, close to the Missouri River. It marks the approximate location where William Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped during their expedition. The Lewis and Clark Expedition, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1804 to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase territory and find a passage to the Pacific Ocean. Clark’s Point Monument commemorates William Clark’s contributions to this historic expedition.
Minor Park features paved trails that wind through the park’s scenic landscape, making it ideal for walking, jogging, and biking. The trails provide opportunities to enjoy the park’s natural beauty, including wooded areas, open green spaces, and picturesque views. The park is also adjacent to the beautiful Indian Creek Trail, which connects to a larger trail network in the area.
Dinosaurs Revealed often includes a display of genuine fossils and replicas, offering visitors a chance to see and learn about the actual remains of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals. The exhibition may feature dinosaur bones, eggs, footprints, and other fossilized remains, providing insight into their anatomy, behavior, and evolutionary history.
The museum focuses on the history and legacy of the garment industry in Kansas City, which was a major hub for clothing manufacturing and distribution in the early 1900s. The Garment District was known for its factories, warehouses, and retail shops, and it played a significant role in shaping the city’s economy and culture.
Epperson House is known for its impressive architecture and elegant design. It features a mix of Tudor Revival and Gothic Revival architectural styles, characterized by its steeply pitched roofs, ornamental chimneys, intricate brickwork, and decorative detailing. The interior showcases intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a grand staircase.
The Black Archives of Mid-America is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and making accessible materials related to African American history, culture, and heritage in the Midwest region. It seeks to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the African American experience through exhibitions, educational programs, research, and community engagement.
Roanoke Park is situated southwest of downtown Kansas City, near the intersection of West 38th Street and Roanoke Road. It covers an area of approximately 41 acres. Roanoke Park has well-maintained walking and jogging trails that wind through the park, providing a pleasant setting for exercise and leisurely strolls. There is a playground area with play structures and equipment suitable for children of different ages, offering a fun and safe place for kids to play.
Castle Northmoor was originally built in the late 1920s as a private residence by artist George E. Muehlebach, known for his work in the field of commercial art. The castle-like mansion was inspired by European architecture and designed to resemble a medieval fortress. In 1979, the property was purchased by philanthropist and art collector Anthony Benton Gude, grandson of the famous American painter Thomas Hart Benton. Gude transformed the estate into the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum, named after his mother and grandmother.
The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum, commonly known as Wonderscope, is a vibrant and interactive museum dedicated to providing educational and playful experiences for children in Kansas City, Missouri.
Penn Valley Park is a scenic urban park located in Kansas City, Missouri. Situated just south of downtown, the park offers a variety of recreational activities, green spaces, and beautiful views. Penn Valley Park spans approximately 176 acres and is nestled between West Pennway Street to the east, Southwest Trafficway to the west, West 29th Street to the north, and West 31st Street to the south. Its central location makes it easily accessible to residents and visitors.
Anne Garney Park is likely to have amenities such as walking paths, green spaces, playground equipment, and possibly picnic areas or benches. The park’s size and specific features may vary, depending on the available land and the neighborhood’s needs.
Hidden Valley Park is a popular outdoor recreation area located in Kansas City, Missouri. Hidden Valley Park is situated in the northeastern part of Kansas City, near the intersection of North Eastern Avenue and Northeast Vivion Road. The park is easily accessible from major roadways and is surrounded by residential neighborhoods.
Jerry Smith Park is situated in the southern part of Kansas City, near the intersection of Holmes Road and Raytown Road. It covers a significant area and provides a natural oasis within the city. The park is known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. It encompasses over 1,000 acres of rolling hills, woodlands, prairies, and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the serene ambiance and escape from the urban surroundings.
Highland View Park is situated in the Highland View neighborhood, near the intersection of Northeast Russell Road and Northeast Parvin Road. It is easily accessible to residents in the surrounding area. The park likely features a playground area with play structures, swings, and other equipment designed for children’s enjoyment and physical activity.
Kansas City, Missouri, is a city with a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re interested in art, history, music, or simply indulging in mouthwatering barbecue, this vibrant city has plenty to offer visitors.
