16 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

16 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

Olathe

Kansas City, Missouri, offers a variety of activities that cater to diverse preferences. The city’s deep cultural heritage can be seen in its notable cultural sites, historic districts, and entertainment spots.

The 18th and Vine District, a hub for jazz history, features the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a museum preserving an important era. Meanwhile, the River Market District features a bustling environment, with its farmers' market and eclectic shops.

Those who love the arts will appreciate performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which features a wide range of cultural events. Sports fans can look forward to 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 famous Kansas City–style barbecue offers a delightful culinary experience, with many eateries serving this beloved dish.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Swope Park, which offers ample green spaces for relaxation. Meanwhile, shoppers may visit the Country Club Plaza, renowned for its Spanish-inspired architecture and a varied mix of dining and retail experiences.

Whether your interests are focused on history, music, sports, or food, Kansas City provides a multitude of attractions to enjoy.

Popular businesses in Kansas City Include:

Elite Aesthetics

KC Foot Care

Omnientertainment

Pete's Pest Control

Optimal Health and Wellness, LLC

Revere Plumbing

Elevated Ledger Kansas City

Your Laundry Assistant

Kansas City, Missouri, is renowned for its vivid cultural tapestry and storied significance, attracting visitors from all walks of life. Known as the "City of Fountains," Kansas City boasts remarkable attractions and a dynamic arts scene.

One of the city’s must-visit areas is the 18th and Vine District, famous for its important contributions to jazz music. This historic district features the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a significant cultural institution preserving the history of African-American baseball. The River Market District, meanwhile, offers a lively atmosphere with its popular farmers' market and unique shops that offer items for a variety of tastes.

For those passionate about culture, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts acts as a beacon of creativity, presenting renowned performances in classical music and theater. Sports fans can enjoy the excitement at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs electrify the crowds.

Kansas City is also famed for its barbecue, a culinary tradition earning international acclaim. Restaurants all over the city present delectable Kansas City–style barbecue, delivering smoky, flavorful dishes that capture the city's gastronomic heritage. For outdoor recreation, Swope Park features expansive green spaces ideal for relaxation and family activities.

Missouri–Kansas state line

  1. Olathe
  2. Blue Springs
  3. Missouri–Kansas state line
The Country Club Plaza features a distinctive shopping experience with its architecturally stunning architecture and varied retail and dining options.

Whether diving into the past, enjoying cultural activities, or exploring culinary delights, Kansas City, Missouri, offers an unparalleled experience for visitors.

Guide To Living In Kansas City MO

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.
  • 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.

Things To Do When Bored In Kansas City MO

Guide To Living In Kansas City MO
Best Things To Do And Places To Go In Kansas City

Best Things To Do And Places To Go In Kansas City

Kansas City offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and families. Here are some of the best options:

1. Explore the Parks

  • Loose Park: A 75-acre park featuring beautiful rose gardens, walking trails, and a large pond. Perfect for picnics and relaxation.
  • Swope Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., with hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Home to the Kansas City Zoo and Starlight Theatre.

2. Visit the Kansas City Zoo

  • Location: Swope Park.
  • Highlights: Spanning over 200 acres, the zoo features animals from around the world, interactive exhibits, and the African Sky Safari ride.

3. Stroll Through the Country Club Plaza

  • Highlights: This iconic outdoor shopping district features Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, and sculptures. Great for a leisurely walk, shopping, and dining.

4. Walk or Bike Along Trails

  • Indian Creek Trail: A scenic 26-mile trail ideal for biking, running, or walking.
  • Line Creek Trail: A shaded, paved trail that’s family-friendly and perfect for all skill levels.

5. Discover Powell Gardens

  • Location: About 30 miles east of Kansas City.
  • Highlights: This botanical garden offers lush landscapes, themed gardens, and seasonal events, such as the Festival of Lights.

6. Explore the Fountains

  • Fountains of Kansas City: Known as the "City of Fountains," Kansas City has over 200 fountains. Notable ones include the JC Nichols Memorial Fountain and the Crown Center Fountain.

7. Enjoy Sporting Activities

  • Topgolf Kansas City: A fun outdoor experience for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun: These adjacent amusement and water parks are perfect for thrill-seekers and families.

8. Attend Outdoor Events and Markets

  • City Market: Located in the River Market District, this farmer’s market offers fresh produce, local goods, and live entertainment.
  • Boulevardia: An annual outdoor festival celebrating craft beer, music, and food.

9. Explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum Sculpture Park

  • Highlights: Walk through this free outdoor space featuring large-scale sculptures, including the iconic Shuttlecocks.

10. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding

  • Lake Jacomo: Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals in a serene setting.
  • Blue River or Missouri River: Perfect for a more adventurous paddling experience.

11. Visit Kauffman Memorial Garden

  • Highlights: A tranquil garden featuring fountains, lush plants, and seasonal blooms. Great for a peaceful escape.

12. Picnic or Play at Union Station

  • Highlights: The surrounding green spaces provide excellent views of downtown Kansas City, making it a great spot for relaxation and people-watching.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly fun, Kansas City's outdoor activities offer something for everyone to enjoy!

27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kansas City MO (Mo)

15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO

Kansas City offers a diverse range of entertainment options, from music and theater to sports and nightlife. Here are some highlights:

Music and Live Performances

  • T-Mobile Center: Hosts major concerts, sports events, and shows. It's a go-to spot for big-name entertainers.

  • Starlight Theatre: An outdoor theater that brings Broadway to Kansas City with its summer productions.

  • The Blue Room Jazz Club: Located next to the American Jazz Museum, it's a venue for live jazz music, embodying the city's rich jazz heritage.

  • The Bird Comedy Theater: Known for its comedy shows, including improv and stand-up.

Theater and Arts

  • Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: A stunning venue for opera, ballet, symphony, and more. It's one of the most architecturally beautiful buildings in KC.

  • KC Repertory Theatre: Offers a mix of plays from classics to new works.

  • The Coterie Theatre: Focuses on theater for young audiences but has productions that appeal to all ages.

Sports Entertainment

  • Kauffman Stadium: Home to the Kansas City Royals, offering baseball games with a unique fountain show.

  • Arrowhead Stadium: Experience the energy of a Kansas City Chiefs NFL game or other major events like concerts.

  • Sporting KC: Watch soccer at Children's Mercy Park, where the atmosphere is electric during matches.



    Olathe

    1. Kansas City Royals
    2. Clay County
    3. Liberty

Nightlife and Bars

  • Power & Light District: A vibrant area with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, perfect for nightlife.

  • Westport: Known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and live music spots, offering a more local vibe.

  • 39th Street: Famous for dive bars, unique shops, and a bohemian atmosphere.

Unique Entertainment Experiences

  • Union Station: Beyond its historical significance, it's home to Science City, a planetarium, and often hosts special exhibitions and events.

  • Worlds of Fun: An amusement park with roller coasters, water attractions at Oceans of Fun, and seasonal events like Halloween Haunt.

  • Escape Rooms: Breakout KC offers themed escape room experiences for those looking for interactive fun.

Festivals and Events

  • Boulevardia: A music and craft beer festival by Boulevard Brewing Company, showcasing local and national acts.

  • First Fridays: An art crawl in the Crossroads Arts District with galleries, street performances, and food trucks.

  • Kansas City Irish Fest: One of the largest Irish festivals in the U.S., celebrating Irish culture with music, dance, and food.

Cinematic Experiences

  • Screenland Armour & Crossroads: Independent theaters known for showing both blockbuster and indie films, with special events like movie marathons.

  • Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: Offers an elevated movie-going experience with food service at your seat and a no-texting policy.

Kansas City's entertainment scene is vibrant and varied, catering to all tastes from high culture to family fun, and from local haunts to international acts. Whether you're there for the music, the arts, sports, or just to enjoy the nightlife, KC has something for everyone.

15 Best Things To Do In Kansas City MO
Things To Do In Kansas City MO This Weekend
Things To Do In Kansas City MO This Weekend

The Kansas City Renaissance Festival is a beloved annual event that transports visitors back to a 16th-century European village filled with magic, merriment, and entertainment. Here’s what to expect:

Event Highlights

  • Dates: Typically runs from early September through mid-October on weekends.
  • Location: Held in Bonner Springs, Kansas, just a short drive from downtown Kansas City.
  • Atmosphere: A sprawling outdoor venue with themed villages, castles, and woodland areas designed to immerse visitors in a Renaissance-era experience.

Entertainment

  • Live Performances:
    • Jousting tournaments with knights in full armor.
    • Comedy, magic shows, and music on various stages.
    • Interactive storytelling and theatrical performances.
  • Parades: Daily royal parades featuring the King, Queen, and their court.
  • Street Performers: Jugglers, musicians, and costumed characters roam the festival grounds.

Activities

  • Games and Rides: Archery, axe throwing, and unique Renaissance-style rides powered by hand.
  • Craft Demonstrations: Watch blacksmiths, glassblowers, and artisans at work.
  • Costume Contests: Dress in your best Renaissance attire for a chance to win prizes.

Shopping and Food

  • Marketplace: Over 100 artisans sell handcrafted goods, including jewelry, clothing, leather goods, and swords.
  • Food and Drink: Feast on turkey legs, meat pies, and other Renaissance-inspired treats. The festival also features ale, cider, and mead for adult visitors.

Family-Friendly Fun

  • A dedicated kids’ area includes crafts, puppet shows, and pony rides.
  • Mermaid Cove and fairy-themed activities enchant younger attendees.

Tips for Visitors

  • Costumes: Guests are encouraged to dress up, but it’s not required.
  • Tickets: Discounts are often available online or for group purchases.
  • Weather: The event is outdoors, so dress accordingly and prepare for walking.

The Kansas City Renaissance Festival is a magical blend of history, fantasy, and fun, making it a perfect outing for families, couples, and groups of friends. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just a unique day of entertainment, this festival is a must-see!

Random Things To Do When Bored In Kansas City MO

Related Searches Include:

  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo For Couples
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo With Kids
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo This Weekend
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo In October
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo In September
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo In November
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo Today
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo At Night
  • Things To Do In Kansas City Mo Downtown
  • Fun Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Fun Things To Do In Kansas City Mo For Families
  • Fun Things To Do In Kansas City Mo For Couples
  • Fun Things To Do In Kansas City Mo This Weekend
  • Cool Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Fun Stuff To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Fun Things To Do In Platte City Mo
  • Fun Things To Do In Kansas City Missouri This Weekend
  • Free Fun Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Fun Cheap Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Top Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Top 5 Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • Fun Things To Do In Downtown Kansas City Mo
  • Fun Things To Do With Toddlers In Kansas City Mo
  • Indoor Things To Do In Kansas City Mo
  • What To Do Indoors In Kansas City
  • Indoor Things To Do In Kansas
  • Indoor Activities In Kansas City
  • What To Do On A Rainy Day In Kansas City
  • Indoor Date Ideas Kansas City

  • Review the Federal Communications Commission's document on channel substitution in Kansas City, Missouri. Source
  • Discover the attractions and facilities in Salina, Kansas, including a large water park and a regional airport. Source


  • Blue Springs

    1. Kansas City metropolitan area
    2. Vaudevillian Orpheum circuit
    3. Kansas City Chiefs
  • Explore the official website of Independence, Kansas for local news and community events. Source
  • Learn about the Kansas City Liberty Memorial, a significant historical site managed by the National Park Service. Source
  • Find information about the U.S. Department of Labor's Region 7 office in Kansas City. Source

Random Things To Do When Bored In Kansas City MO

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City is renowned for its distinctive style of barbecue, jazz heritage, and its fountains. The city often surprises visitors with its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions.

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.

Kansas City is home to the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), the Kansas City Royals (MLB), and Sporting Kansas City (MLS).