This Midwest city has transformed into a cultural hub, known for world-class museums, iconic shopping districts, and renowned barbecue. Jazz and blues clubs add to its vibrant nightlife scene.
Kansas City, straddling the border of Missouri and Kansas, welcomes visitors with its Midwestern hospitality and urban energy. The city invites you to taste its famous barbecue, listen to jazz in historic clubs, admire numerous fountains, and explore attractions like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the National World War I Museum and Memorial.
Taste Kansas City's Renowned Barbecue
Kansas City is famous for its barbecue, with over 100 restaurants serving this local specialty. Try slow-smoked ribs, burnt ends, and pulled pork covered in thick, sweet-and-spicy sauce. Visit iconic establishments like Gates and Arthur Bryant's, or local favorites such as Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. At Joe's, housed in a former gas station, order their popular Z-Man sandwich.
Listen to Jazz in its Historical Home
Kansas City played a crucial role in developing jazz music, particularly the swing style. Visit the 18th and Vine District to explore the American Jazz Museum, where you can learn about Charlie Parker and Count Basie. In the evening, head to one of the city's many jazz clubs. The Green Lady Lounge and the Blue Room offer live performances that capture the spirit of jazz's golden age.
Discover the City's Many Fountains
Kansas City has more than 200 fountains decorating its streets and parks. Take a walk to see impressive water features like the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain on the Country Club Plaza and the Crown Center Square Fountain. The Crown Center fountain puts on a choreographed water show. These fountains serve as popular meeting spots for locals and visitors.
Visit Kansas City's Museums
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses an extensive collection representing 5,000 years of human creativity. Its sculpture park includes giant shuttlecocks. For history enthusiasts, the National World War I Museum and Memorial provides a comprehensive look at the Great War through exhibits and artifacts. The Hallmark Visitors Center offers tours showing how the greeting card company creates its products.
Watch Kansas City's Sports Teams
Sports fans can watch the Kansas City Chiefs play football at Arrowhead Stadium, known for its lively atmosphere. During baseball season, you can see the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. In fall, the American Royal combines sports and food in a large event nicknamed the "World Series of Barbecue."
Explore the Country Club Plaza
The Country Club Plaza, opened in 1922, was the first outdoor shopping district in the U.S. designed for cars. This 15-block area features Spanish-inspired architecture and many fountains. You can shop at high-end retailers and local boutiques, and dine at various restaurants. During the holidays, thousands of colorful lights decorate the Plaza.
Learn About Kansas City's History
Kansas City grew from a small trading post to a major transportation hub due to its location at the meeting point of the Missouri and Kansas rivers. At the Arabia Steamboat Museum, you can see artifacts recovered from a sunken 19th-century steamboat. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum tells the story of African American baseball players excluded from the major leagues, highlighting the city's role in the Civil Rights movement.
