12 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

12 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

Cass County

Kansas City, located in Missouri, boasts a variety of activities for diverse tastes. The city’s extensive cultural heritage is displayed through its impressive museums, historic districts, and entertainment spots.

The 18th and Vine District, known for its jazz heritage, is home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a landmark dedicated to baseball history. Meanwhile, the River Market District features a lively atmosphere, with its farmers' market and eclectic shops.

Fans of the arts will appreciate performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a wide range 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 play.

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

Outdoor explorers may explore Swope Park, which offers spacious green spaces for relaxation. Meanwhile, shoppers may visit the Country Club Plaza, renowned for its Spanish-inspired architecture and a diverse mix of dining and retail choices.

Whether your interests are focused on history, music, sports, or food, Kansas City has something for everyone.

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The lively city of Kansas City, Missouri, is celebrated for its vivid cultural tapestry and heritage-filled significance, drawing in visitors from around the world. Called the "City of Fountains," Kansas City features remarkable attractions and a flourishing arts scene.

One of the city’s must-visit areas is the 18th and Vine District, famous for its significant contributions to jazz music. This heritage-rich district also houses the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a significant cultural institution preserving the history of African-American baseball. The River Market District, on the other hand, features a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling farmers' market and distinctive shops that offer items for a variety of tastes.

For those passionate about culture, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts stands as a beacon of creativity, showcasing world-class performances in classical music and theater. Sports fans will relish the excitement at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or at Arrowhead Stadium, hosting the Kansas City Chiefs electrify the crowds.

Kansas City is widely recognized for its barbecue, a culinary tradition earning international acclaim. Restaurants across the city serve delectable Kansas City–style barbecue, delivering smoky, flavorful dishes that highlight the city's gastronomic heritage. For outdoor recreation, Swope Park provides extensive green spaces perfect for relaxation and family activities. The Country Club Plaza features a unique shopping experience with its Spanish-inspired architecture and diverse retail and dining options.



Clay County

  1. Overland Park
  2. Raytown
  3. Overland Park

Whether diving into the past, enjoying cultural activities, or savoring world-class cuisine, Kansas City, Missouri, provides an exceptional experience for visitors.

Kansas City MO Kid Friendly Activities

The Country Club Plaza holds a significant place in Kansas City's history as the first planned shopping district in the United States, designed specifically to accommodate shoppers arriving by automobile. Opened in 1923, it was developed by J.C. Nichols, a visionary real estate developer whose influence shaped much of the city's growth.

Key Aspects of the Plaza's Significance:

  1. Architectural Innovation:

    • The Plaza's design drew inspiration from Spanish architecture, featuring ornate towers, tiled roofs, and fountains. It was modeled after Seville, Spain, creating a unique cultural and aesthetic experience for visitors.
    • This distinctive architectural style helped establish the Plaza as a landmark and set a precedent for integrated urban shopping and leisure spaces.
  2. Automobile-Friendly Design:

    • At a time when cities were just beginning to adapt to the rise of cars, the Plaza was designed with parking lots and road access in mind, making it a revolutionary concept for retail spaces.
  3. Cultural Hub:

    • The Plaza has been a center for art, culture, and commerce for over a century. Its fountains, sculptures, and public spaces contributed to its reputation as more than just a shopping district but also a community gathering space.
    • The Plaza Art Fair, an annual tradition since 1932, showcases local and national artists and draws thousands of visitors.
  4. Economic Impact:

    • The Country Club Plaza spurred the growth of surrounding neighborhoods and became a model for suburban shopping centers in the U.S., influencing urban planning and development.
  5. Historic Preservation:

    • The Plaza is celebrated for maintaining its architectural heritage while evolving into a modern retail and dining destination. It features both upscale stores and unique local shops.

Modern Relevance:

Today, the Country Club Plaza remains a vibrant area, blending history, culture, and contemporary commerce. It is a must-visit destination in Kansas City, attracting tourists and locals alike for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, all while celebrating its rich historical roots.

Would you like suggestions for what to do or see on the Plaza?

Kansas City MO Kid Friendly Activities

28 Things To Do In Kansas City: Points Of Interest + Activities

Kansas City’s cultural mix is a vibrant tapestry of music, art, history, sports, and food, creating an immersive experience for locals and visitors alike. Here's what makes it unique:

Music

  • Jazz Heritage: The 18th & Vine Jazz District celebrates Kansas City’s role in shaping jazz, with iconic venues like The Blue Room and the American Jazz Museum.
  • Live Music Venues: From the historic Uptown Theater to edgy spots like Knuckleheads Saloon, the city offers a dynamic live music scene.

Art and Creativity

  • World-Class Museums: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art blends global art with local influences, while the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art highlights innovative modern pieces.


  • Cass County

    1. Overland Park
    2. Raytown
    3. Kansas City, Kansas
  • Public Art and Street Murals: The Crossroads Arts District is a hotspot for creativity, with galleries, installations, and vibrant First Fridays events.

Sports Fandom

  • Professional Teams: The Kansas City Chiefs (NFL) and Kansas City Royals (MLB) bring the city together, with Arrowhead and Kauffman Stadiums hosting electric game days.
  • Soccer Passion: Sporting Kansas City draws dedicated fans to Children’s Mercy Park.

Culinary Scene

  • BBQ Capital: Kansas City is synonymous with smoky, slow-cooked barbecue, with renowned spots like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Arthur Bryant’s.
  • Craft Breweries: Home to Boulevard Brewing Co., KC has a thriving craft beer scene.
  • Diverse Eats: Global flavors meet Midwestern hospitality in local restaurants offering everything from soul food to farm-to-table dining.

Community and Festivals

  • Events like Boulevardia, the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, and Irish Fest showcase the city’s multicultural influences.
  • The Plaza Art Fair and First Fridays emphasize local talent and creativity.

Kansas City’s cultural mix is a testament to its rich history and welcoming spirit, making it a destination where tradition meets innovation. Whether you're exploring jazz clubs, savoring barbecue, or cheering at a game, the city’s diversity offers something for everyone.

13 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

28 Things To Do In Kansas City: Points Of Interest + Activities
Things To Do Nearby Kansas City
Things To Do Nearby Kansas City

The Country Club Plaza holds a significant place in Kansas City's history as the first planned shopping district in the United States, designed specifically to accommodate shoppers arriving by automobile. Opened in 1923, it was developed by J.C. Nichols, a visionary real estate developer whose influence shaped much of the city's growth.

Key Aspects of the Plaza's Significance:

  1. Architectural Innovation:

    • The Plaza's design drew inspiration from Spanish architecture, featuring ornate towers, tiled roofs, and fountains. It was modeled after Seville, Spain, creating a unique cultural and aesthetic experience for visitors.
    • This distinctive architectural style helped establish the Plaza as a landmark and set a precedent for integrated urban shopping and leisure spaces.
  2. Automobile-Friendly Design:

    • At a time when cities were just beginning to adapt to the rise of cars, the Plaza was designed with parking lots and road access in mind, making it a revolutionary concept for retail spaces.
  3. Cultural Hub:

    • The Plaza has been a center for art, culture, and commerce for over a century. Its fountains, sculptures, and public spaces contributed to its reputation as more than just a shopping district but also a community gathering space.
    • The Plaza Art Fair, an annual tradition since 1932, showcases local and national artists and draws thousands of visitors.
  4. Economic Impact:

    • The Country Club Plaza spurred the growth of surrounding neighborhoods and became a model for suburban shopping centers in the U.S., influencing urban planning and development.
  5. Historic Preservation:

    • The Plaza is celebrated for maintaining its architectural heritage while evolving into a modern retail and dining destination. It features both upscale stores and unique local shops.

Modern Relevance:

Today, the Country Club Plaza remains a vibrant area, blending history, culture, and contemporary commerce. It is a must-visit destination in Kansas City, attracting tourists and locals alike for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, all while celebrating its rich historical roots.

Would you like suggestions for what to do or see on the Plaza?

Fun Things To Do At Home When Bored In Kansas City MO

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  • Kansas City, Kansas

    1. Cass County
    2. Clay County
    3. Kansas City, Kansas

    • 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

Fun Things To Do At Home When Bored In Kansas City MO

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City offers a diverse shopping experience, from the upscale shops at the Country Club Plaza to unique boutiques in the Westport and Crossroads Arts District. The City Market also provides a variety of local goods and fresh produce.

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

Kansas City boasts a vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by its jazz heritage, numerous art galleries, live theater, and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.