Looking for the best things to do in Kansas City? We’ve put together a list to help you plan your next trip.
On our way across the country on our #EndlessCaravan, we stopped in Kansas City. I lived here for a few years as a kid and have very little recollection of it besides playing lots of tetherball and going to Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun.
With the help of our friends who were born and raised here, we put together the best things to do in Kansas City.
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Last Updated: April 17, 2024
11 Things to DO in Kansas City
We still have a hard time grasping how Kansas City works. It is not one city divided into two states but two separate cities with the same name that happen to be neighbors. When you talk to people who live in either city, though, they give you recommendations from both and treat it like one city.
The funny thing is neither was originally named Kansas City.
1. Enjoy the Sunset Views from the Liberty Memorial
2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108, map
The Liberty Memorial stands on top of the National World War I Museum, which gives a great view of the city. It is also the only US museum devoted solely to World War I.
2. Eat Kansas City BBQ
3002 W 47th Ave, Kansas City, KS 66103, map
When it comes to Kansas City BBQ, you’ll hear a lot of opinions on what’s the best, but Joe’s Kansas City BBQ (formerly Oklahoma Joes) always makes the list somewhere. It’s located inside a gas station, and you could be waiting hours just to order, but it’s worth the wait!
If you’re looking for a fancier spot, Jack Stack BBQ is also a popular spot amongst locals. We tried both on the trip, and if we had to pick only one meal to eat in KC, we’d choose Joe’s.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111, map
This is a popular spot amongst tourists and locals. It is home to an amazing collection of rare European, American, and Asian art, but it also has a huge outdoor area with sculptures and plenty of grass to enjoy a beautiful afternoon.
Local Tip: It’s also the home to the World’s Largest Shuttlecock.
4. Get Nostalgic at the National Toy Museum
5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112, map
If you loved toys at any point in your life, then you need to stop by the National Toy Museum. It originally started as a private collection that grew to become what it is today.
After a recent $8 million renovation, the museum has great interactive exhibits and the pieces are displayed beautifully. Our favorite part of the museum were the toys through the decades, where we reminisced seeing toys from the 80s and 90s.
5. Browse Giant Books at the Kansas City Public Library
14 W 10th St, Kansas City, MO 64105, map
The city’s library has created the perfect photo op for any bibliophile. In addition to its beautiful library, the library has created a row of giant books along the outside of the parking structure.
6. See the Animals at the Kansas City Zoo
6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132, map
The Kansas City Zoo has over 1700 animals covering 200+ acres. You can book animal encounters, stay overnight, or go on a guided tour.
7. Leila’s Hair Museum
1333 S Noland Rd, Independence, MO 64055, map
We had no idea what to expect when walking into Leila’s Hair Museum. On our cross-country adventure, we were on the hunt for the weirdest and most offbeat attractions we could find, and it was perfect!
What we thought would be a good laugh, however, was quite a fascinating learning experience. They have a massive collection of hair art from historic figures, presidents, and celebrities. But what was most interesting was learning about the tradition of hair wreaths used in the past for documenting genealogy from the owner, Leila, herself.
Local Tip: If you want to learn more about the lost art of hair wreaths, Leila even teaches classes where you learn her techniques.
8. Union Station
30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108, map
This building was originally built in 1914 as the terminal for 12 main lines and 30 subsidiary lines. Since then, it has been converted into a 188 million entertainment center. Now, it’s home to an exhibit on Kansas City’s railroad history, shops, restaurants, Science City—a hands-on children’s science center—a movie theater, and Amtrak!
9. Grab a Pint at the Boulevard Brewing Company
2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, map
This brewery has become the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest. Take the tour and be sure to try the Midwest’s best-selling craft beer, Boulevard Unfiltered Wheat Beer.
BONUS: Escape Game Kansas City →
320 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112, map
We love a good escape room, and after trying many of them in NYC and Las Vegas, Escape Game is our favorite nationwide chain. The rooms are well crafted, the puzzles challenging, and we always have fun. See detailed reviews on each room in this post.
See More: 15 Best Las Vegas Escape Rooms
10. Walk Through History at the Harry S. Truman Home
223 N Main St, Independence, MO 64050, map
Take a walk through the 33rd president’s “Summer White House.” This National Park unit gives you a glimpse into Harry S. Truman’s life and career. They limit the tours to 8 people at a time, so stop by the visitor’s center to get tickets. They are first come, first served.
Pro Tip: This national park is free to visit! If you plan on visiting multiple national parks throughout the year, pick up the
See More: Your complete list of all National Parks in the US
11. Enjoy Music at Blue Room Jazz Club
1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, map
Right next to the American Jazz Museum is the Blue Room Jazz Club, where you can enjoy music from up-and-coming bands, seasoned veterans, and big names. Some shows are free while others have a cover charge. Check their schedule here for the latest lineup.
Map of the Best Things to Do in Kansas City
More Things to DO in Kansas City Missouri And Kansas
Here are more spots to check out during your visit.
- American Jazz Museum
- Crown Center
- The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial
- Jacob L. Loose Park
- J C Nichols Memorial Fountain
- Kansas City Museum
- Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
- Harry S Truman Library and Museum
- Lake Jacomo
- Lakeside Nature Center
- Longview Lake
- Money Museum
- Museum at Prairiefire
- National Airline History Museum
- National WWI Museum and Memorial
- Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
- Shoal Creek LIing History Museum
- Swope Park
- Vaile Mansion
- Worlds of Fun + Oceans of Fun
Best Places to Stay in Kansas City
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Kansas City hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Kansas City travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
Have you been to Kansas City? Anything you’d add to the list?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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