Fun Things To Do When You Are Bored In Kansas City MO

Fun Things To Do When You Are Bored In Kansas City MO

Clay County

Kansas City, Missouri, is a destination filled with a variety of activities that cater to different preferences. The city’s extensive cultural heritage can be seen in its impressive museums, historic venues, and entertainment options.

The 18th and Vine District, a historic jazz district, features the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a landmark dedicated to baseball history. Meanwhile, the River Market District provides a bustling environment, with its farmers' market and eclectic shops.

Fans of the arts may explore performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which presents a wide range of cultural events. Sports fans will enjoy games at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or visit Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs take the field.

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

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Swope Park, which offers spacious green spaces for relaxation. Meanwhile, shoppers can explore the Country Club Plaza, known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and a wide mix of dining and retail experiences.

Whether your interests lie in history, music, sports, or food, Kansas City offers something for all visitors.

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Things To Do When Bored In Kansas City MO

Kansas City, located in Missouri, is known for its rich cultural tapestry and historical significance, drawing in visitors from around the world. Called the "City of Fountains," Kansas City is home to historic sites and a flourishing arts scene.

One of the city’s essential areas is the 18th and Vine District, renowned for its significant contributions to jazz music. This historic district is home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a renowned museum highlighting 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 serve a variety of tastes.

For art enthusiasts, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a beacon of creativity, featuring high-quality performances in classical music and theater. Sports fans are sure to appreciate the excitement at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or at Arrowhead Stadium, hosting the Kansas City Chiefs bring energy to the field.

Kansas City is widely recognized for its legendary barbecue, a culinary tradition earning international acclaim. Restaurants across the city serve delectable Kansas City–style barbecue, serving up smoky, flavorful dishes that capture the city's gastronomic heritage.

Kansas City, Missouri

  1. Clay County
  2. Kansas City–style barbecue
  3. Kansas City, Missouri
For outdoor recreation, Swope Park provides expansive green spaces ideal for relaxation and family activities. The Country Club Plaza provides a distinctive shopping experience with its architecturally stunning architecture and wide retail and dining options.

Whether learning about its heritage, enjoying cultural activities, or savoring world-class cuisine, Kansas City, Missouri, delivers an exceptional experience for visitors.

Discover Downtown Kansas City MO

Kansas City offers a vibrant entertainment scene with options for everyone. Here are some highlights:

Live Music and Performances

  • Kansas City Jazz District: Visit the 18th & Vine Historic District for live jazz at The Blue Room or the American Jazz Museum.
  • Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: Home to the Kansas City Symphony, Kansas City Ballet, and Lyric Opera.
  • Knuckleheads Saloon: A unique live music venue featuring blues, rock, and country performances.

Sports and Gaming

  • Arrowhead Stadium: Catch a Kansas City Chiefs game.
  • Kauffman Stadium: Watch the Kansas City Royals in action.
  • Kansas Speedway: Experience NASCAR and other racing events.
  • Power & Light District: Features bars, restaurants, and live music, great for game-day gatherings.

Theater and Arts

  • Starlight Theatre: An iconic outdoor theater hosting Broadway shows and concerts.
  • Folly Theater: A historic venue for classical music, jazz, and special performances.
  • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Free admission and an impressive collection of art from around the world.

Family-Friendly Fun

  • Kansas City Zoo: Explore wildlife exhibits and animal encounters.
  • Legoland Discovery Center: Great for kids with interactive LEGO-themed attractions.
  • Science City at Union Station: Hands-on exhibits for curious minds.

Nightlife

  • Westport: A trendy area with bars, live music, and dance clubs.
  • Crossroads Arts District: Known for its First Fridays art walk, unique bars, and food trucks.

Food and Drink

  • BBQ Scene: Sample Kansas City’s legendary barbecue at spots like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Q39, or Arthur Bryant's.
  • Craft Breweries: Boulevard Brewing Co. offers tours and tastings.
  • Speakeasies: Check out hidden bars like The Green Lady Lounge for cocktails and jazz.

Festivals and Events



Clay County

  1. Country Club Plaza
  2. Liberty
  3. Paris of the Plains
  • Boulevardia Festival: Celebrating craft beer, music, and food.
  • Kansas City Renaissance Festival: A seasonal event full of entertainment, crafts, and themed activities.

Kansas City’s mix of music, art, sports, and food ensures a memorable experience for all tastes. Let me know if you'd like more specific recommendations!

Discover Downtown Kansas City MO
15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

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 When You're Bored In Kansas City MO

Famous Jazz Musicians with Kansas City Connections

1. Charlie Parker ("Bird")



Kansas City–style barbecue

  1. Missouri River
  2. Kansas City jazz
  3. Lee's Summit
  • Role: Saxophonist and composer; one of the most influential figures in jazz history.
  • Connection: Born in Kansas City, Kansas, and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. Parker began his career in the city's vibrant jazz scene, playing in nightclubs along 12th Street and 18th & Vine.
  • Legacy: A pioneer of bebop, Parker’s innovative style forever changed jazz. The American Jazz Museum in Kansas City celebrates his contributions.

2. Count Basie

  • Role: Bandleader, pianist, and composer.
  • Connection: Led the legendary Count Basie Orchestra, which became prominent during the Kansas City jazz era. His time at the Reno Club in Kansas City helped solidify his reputation as a leading figure in swing jazz.
  • Legacy: Basie’s big band sound was heavily influenced by the city’s bluesy, riff-driven jazz.

3. Mary Lou Williams

  • Role: Pianist, composer, and arranger.
  • Connection: Worked with the Kansas City-based Andy Kirk and His Twelve Clouds of Joy during the 1930s. She was a prolific arranger and composer, shaping the band’s distinctive sound.
  • Legacy: Known as one of the greatest jazz pianists and arrangers, Williams contributed to the development of bebop and modern jazz.

4. Bennie Moten

  • Role: Pianist, bandleader.
  • Connection: Leader of the Bennie Moten Orchestra, one of the most influential Kansas City jazz bands in the 1920s and early 1930s. His band later evolved into the Count Basie Orchestra after his death.
  • Legacy: A pioneer of Kansas City jazz, Moten’s orchestra was a breeding ground for future jazz legends.

5. Jay McShann

  • Role: Pianist, bandleader.
  • Connection: Led a Kansas City-based band in the 1940s that helped launch Charlie Parker’s career.
  • Legacy: McShann kept Kansas City’s jazz tradition alive for decades and was celebrated for his blues-influenced piano style.

6. Big Joe Turner

  • Role: Singer, "Boss of the Blues."
  • Connection: Worked in Kansas City as a bartender and performer before gaining national fame. He often performed at the city’s famous nightclubs like the Reno Club.
  • Legacy: Turner’s booming voice and blues style bridged the gap between jazz and early rock ‘n’ roll.

7. Lester Young ("Prez")

  • Role: Tenor saxophonist.
  • Connection: Played with Count Basie’s Orchestra in Kansas City, developing his signature smooth, melodic style.
  • Legacy: A key figure in swing and an influence on bebop musicians, Young’s time in Kansas City was pivotal in his career.

Kansas City’s Impact on Jazz

Kansas City’s vibrant nightlife during the Prohibition era, fueled by clubs like the Reno Club and neighborhoods like 18th & Vine, made it a hotbed for improvisation and innovation. The city’s focus on riffs, extended solos, and blues elements helped define the Kansas City jazz style.

Explore Their Legacy

  • Visit the American Jazz Museum and The Blue Room in the 18th & Vine Jazz District to learn more about these iconic musicians and the city’s jazz history.
  • Attend Kansas City Jazz Festivals to experience modern interpretations of this rich musical tradition.

Let me know if you'd like more details on any of these legends or Kansas City’s jazz venues!

Fun Things To Do When You're Bored In Kansas City MO
27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kansas City MO (Mo)
27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kansas City MO (Mo)

Here's a bucket list for experiencing the best of what Kansas City has to offer:

Cultural and Historical Experiences

  • Visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial - Explore the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to World War I, with its Liberty Memorial Tower offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Walk through the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum - Celebrate the history and legacy of African-American baseball players.

  • Experience the American Jazz Museum - Dive into the jazz scene with exhibits and live performances in the historic 18th & Vine District.

Culinary Adventures

  • Eat at a Legendary BBQ Joint - No visit is complete without trying Kansas City's famous barbecue. Hit up Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant's, or Gates Bar-B-Q.

  • Attend the American Royal World Series of Barbecue - If your visit coincides with October, experience this epic barbecue cook-off.

  • Savor a Meal at The Country Club Plaza - Enjoy dining in one of the oldest shopping districts in the U.S., known for its architecture and ambiance.

Art and Architecture

  • See the Shuttlecocks at Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art - This museum isn't just about what's inside; the outdoor sculpture park is unique.

  • Visit Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art - Admire contemporary art in a setting that's both intimate and expansive.

Outdoor and Natural Beauty

  • Explore Loose Park - Especially beautiful during the rose bloom season, this park is a serene escape within the city.

  • Stroll Through City Market - Experience one of the largest and oldest public farmers' markets in the Midwest.

Entertainment and Sports

  • Catch a Kansas City Royals Game at Kauffman Stadium - Known for its iconic fountains and family-friendly atmosphere.

  • Cheer for the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium - Experience one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL.

  • Enjoy a Night at Starlight Theatre - Outdoor theater under the stars, offering Broadway shows in a unique setting.

Unique Experiences

  • Ride the KC Streetcar - Free and a great way to see parts of downtown KC, including stops near many attractions.

  • Explore Union Station - From its beautiful architecture to Science City and the planetarium, there's much to see.

  • Visit the Toy & Miniature Museum - A quirky and charming stop for enthusiasts of miniatures and toys.

Seasonal Fun

  • See the Holiday Lights at the Plaza - If visiting during the holiday season, the Country Club Plaza's light display is magical.

  • Walk through the Kansas City Zoo - Especially during special events like Zoo Boo or the Holiday Lights.

A Bit Out There

  • Take a Day Trip to Independence, MO - Visit the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, or explore the historic downtown.

This bucket list covers a broad spectrum of experiences, ensuring you'll leave Kansas City with memories to last a lifetime. Remember, Kansas City's charm lies in its mix of history, culture, and contemporary vibrancy. Enjoy!

Fun Things To Do When You're Bored In Kansas City MO

Things To Do When You're High In Kansas City MO

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  • Learn about the City of Olathe's achievements and partnerships in the Kansas City area. Source
  • Find information about the Kansas City Immigration Court, including contact details and location. Source
  • Explore transportation and road information in the Kansas City region with KDOT. Source
  • Access resources and support from the Kansas City Area Office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Source
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Things To Do When You're High 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.