So whether you’re searching for<\/span> apartments in Kansas City<\/span><\/a>,<\/span> homes for sale<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>homes for rent<\/span><\/a>, or are already a local, this Redfin article will be your guide. Here’s a list of the top 20 things to do in Kansas City, including insider tips, for both newcomers and long-time locals alike.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art<\/span><\/a> is a cornerstone of Kansas City\u2019s cultural scene, renowned for its vast and varied collection of over 35,000 works of art. Visitors can journey through time, exploring galleries that span ancient Egyptian artifacts to cutting-edge contemporary art. \u201cMy favorite Kansas City recommendation is a day trip to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art,\u201d recommends <\/span>Hallie Sigwing<\/span><\/a>, a local documentary wedding photographer in the Kansas City area. \u201cWe are so lucky that our city is home to such a prolific art museum, and I can’t recommend it enough. Did I mention that admission is free? You can spend the day wandering the various exhibits \u2013 including a Monet \u2013\u00a0 and afterward, have a picnic on the lawn just south of the museum, which even has Wi-Fi. A perfect day, in my opinion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Steve Yang, a KC wedding videographer with <\/span>Moontage Films<\/span><\/a>, seconds visiting this famous museum. “As an 8-year Kansas City resident, I recommend the Nelson-Atkins Museum Of Art, a perfect place for an art journey and outdoor activities!” advises Steve. “Located less than one mile from the Plaza, the Nelson-Atkins Museum is the most popular area for wedding, engagement, and family photos, plus over 40,000 works of art for free to visit!”<\/span><\/p>\n The perfect date night:<\/b> The Nelson-Atkins Museum can be a perfect beginning destination on a date night in Kansas City. \u201c<\/span>If we were to plan a perfect date night it would start with a visit to the Nelson-Atkins museum, the historical pieces provide an incredible visual to the depth and vastness of art,\u201d says Trevan Hiatt of <\/span>Hiatt Films<\/span><\/a>, a video production studio in Kansas City. \u201cNext we would head to <\/span>Jack Stack BBQ<\/span><\/a>, for some of the best burnt ends in the city, our favorite location is the Freight House. After dinner<\/span>,<\/span> we would head to dessert at <\/span>McCormick & Schmick’s<\/span><\/a> for coffee and their Chocolate Bag.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Riding the streetcar around town is a great way to get the lay of the land before diving into other activities around town. \u201c<\/span>The streetcar is a great way to get around the downtown area,\u201d says <\/span>Sherrie Ortiz of <\/span>Just One Day Travel Tours<\/span><\/a>, a full-service tour company serving the Kansas City area. \u201c<\/span>There are many things to see along the way: lots of entertainment like First Fridays and the art scene, <\/span>Up-Down Arcade Bar<\/span><\/a> is one of my favorites, <\/span>Tom’s Town Distillery<\/span><\/a>, lots of murals, coffee spots, several James Beard awarded restaurants. Currently on the streetcar, you can start at Union Station which has a lot of history and displays to see, and travel all the way to the City Market \u2013\u00a0 the birthplace of Kansas City.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Affordable travel: <\/b>Since it opened on May 6, 2016, the streetcar has been free to ride to the public. More stations are on the way to serve more of the Kansas City community.<\/span><\/p>\n 3. Visit English Landing Park\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n English Landing Park in Missouri is a scenic riverside park located near Kansas City, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and beautiful views of the Missouri River. \u201c<\/span>My favorite thing to do in Kansas City is going and walking the Missouri River at English Landing Park!\u201d shares local lifestyle photographer Cristen Stark of <\/span>Cristen Stark Photography<\/span><\/a>. \u201cThere’s lots of unique shops to explore and my favorite restaurants. There’s even a fun miniature golf course! It\u2019s perfect for date night.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Fun fact: <\/b>English Landing Park is home to the annual <\/span>Parkville Days<\/span><\/a> festival, featuring live music, art and crafts, food, and other local attractions.<\/span><\/p>\n Watching a Kansas City Chiefs game is an electrifying experience, with passionate fans filling Arrowhead Stadium, known for being one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL. \u201c<\/span>Our favorite thing to do in Kansas City is to go to Chiefs games,\u201d shares the team at Olive Street Boutique<\/a>. \u201cWe are season ticket members to the Chiefs and we absolutely love going to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium to tailgate with friends and watch the Chiefs play football. Definitely our favorite thing to do in KC.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Don\u2019t miss:<\/b> When attending a Kansas City Chiefs game, it’s essential to experience the pre-game tailgating tradition in the Arrowhead Stadium parking lot, where fans gather hours before kickoff to grill, share food, and celebrate with one of the most enthusiastic fan bases in the NFL.<\/span><\/p>\n The <\/span>Kansas City River Market<\/span><\/a> is a lively historic district featuring a bustling farmers market, eclectic shops, diverse dining options, and vibrant street vendors, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Missouri River. \u201c<\/span>One of my favorite activities is going to the River Market on a Sunday morning,\u201d says Chris Harrington of <\/span>Westside Storey<\/span><\/a>, a vintage clothing store in Kansas City. \u201cAt the River Market, they have the historic Farmers Market that’s been going for over 100 years. There are also pop-ups of local makers with <\/span>Art Garden KC<\/span><\/a> and vintage clothing with the <\/span>River Market Flea<\/span><\/a>. The vintage clothing selection is phenomenal.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Get active:<\/b> The Kansas City River Market frequently hosts events like yoga in the park, live concerts, and cultural celebrations \u2013 all great opportunities to engage with the local community.<\/span><\/p>\n The Rabbit hOle<\/span><\/a> is a one-of-a-kind museum in Kansas City that brings classic children\u2019s literature to life in an immersive, multi-sensory, and narrative experience. \u201cEach room is themed toward different children\u2019s books,\u201d shares Chandler Hottenstein of <\/span>Cinder Block Brewery<\/span><\/a>, a local KC brewery. \u201cMy daughter is 3 years old and loves \u2018Goodnight Moon\u2019 \u2013 we read it every night. The Rabbit hOle has a life-sized replica of the Great Green Room from that book. She thought it was the coolest thing in the world to be \u2018in the book!\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Must do:<\/b> If you\u2019re traveling with kids, Chandler has the perfect day in mind. \u201c<\/span>At Cinder Block Brewery, we are a kid-friendly brewery with lots of games for kiddos and their parents. Stop by the brew for a beer or slushy then hop down to the Rabbit hOle for a perfect day of family fun.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Kansas City<\/span><\/a>, MO, boasts a vibrant food scene known for its world-famous barbecue, diverse range of local restaurants, farm-to-table dining, and innovative chefs who bring a unique twist to classic Midwestern flavors. <\/span>\u201cIf you\u2019re a foodie like us, you\u2019ll love the vibrant restaurant scene Kansas City has to offer,\u201d says the team at <\/span>Vitality Lifestyle Medicine<\/span><\/a>. \u201cWe\u2019ve put together dining guides for delicious local offerings, including a guide for common dietary preferences.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Don\u2019t miss:<\/b> If you\u2019re looking for a premier dining experience, you have to visit <\/span>Story<\/span><\/a>. <\/span>Story is a creative American restaurant featuring cuisine from James Beard nominee and Food & Wine magazine\u2019s Best New Chef, Carl Thorne-Thomsen.<\/span> \u201cAt <\/span>Story, we offer an award-winning wine list, craft cocktails and upscale dining room, intimate bar and patio seating. Come visit for dinner Wednesday through Sunday,\u201d shares Susan Thorne-Thomsen of Story KC.<\/span><\/p>\n Worlds of Fun<\/span><\/a> in Kansas City is a popular amusement park that offers over 235 acres of thrilling <\/span>rides, live entertainment, and attractions, making it a must-visit destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. \u201cWorlds of Fun just celebrated their 50<\/span>th<\/span> anniversary last year,\u201d says Megan Sahlfeld of <\/span>Clay County Missouri<\/span><\/a>. \u201cIt\u2019s fun for all ages and complete with everything from high-octane thrill rides to a relaxing lazy river.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Must do:<\/b> You have to check out the iconic Mamba roller coaster and the Oceans of Fun water park at Worlds of Fun.<\/span><\/p>\n The <\/span>Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art<\/span><\/a> in Kansas City is a dynamic cultural hub that showcases an impressive array of modern and contemporary artworks from emerging and established artists, offering a thought-provoking experience through its rotating exhibitions, interactive programs, and engaging public art installations. \u201cAt <\/span>The Truitt, we\u2019re located steps from the Kemper Art Museum,\u201d says Ryan Hiser of <\/span>The Truitt<\/span><\/a>, a boutique hotel in Kansas City. \u201cOne of our favorite little-known secrets is Caf\u00e9 Sebastienne at the Kemper Art Museum, serving the best lunch\/brunch in town to eat while sitting amongst art in the gallery.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Fun fact:<\/b> Caf\u00e9 Sebastienne has two unique spaces: one with a floor-to-ceiling installation of more than 100 paintings by Frederick James Brown and the other in an enclosed courtyard filled with natural light.<\/span><\/p>\n Kansas City is home to many unique and welcoming accommodations aside from the route of a more traditional hotel.\u00a0<\/span>The Truitt<\/span><\/a>\u00a0is one example, offering the unique experience of living just a quick stroll away from museums and other attractions in the Historic Country Club Plaza District. Another local accommodation is the\u00a0<\/span>Silver Heart Inn<\/span><\/a>, offering a variety of rooms to stay in. Guests of the Silver Heart Inn say, \u201cOur stay was very peaceful and the hospitality was off the charts. They have a hot tub, a beautiful backyard area, and you can tell they put a lot of work into making it beautiful and peaceful. Charles and Amy were wonderful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Located just a short drive from Kansas City, Downtown Shawnee has a wealth of shops, breweries, and more to explore. \u201cWe love hanging out in Downtown Shawnee,\u201d says Christie Jackson of <\/span>Transport Brewery Shawnee<\/span><\/a>. \u201cThere are three breweries, but our favorite has to be Transport Brewery for our beer, community, and fun atmosphere. Then there is a chocolatier, a deli, two restaurants, an ice cream shop, and some boutiques all within a few steps of each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Other suggestions: <\/b>Christie and the team at Transport Brewery also love to head to downtown Kansas City. \u201cWhile in downtown Kansas City, go to the <\/span>World War 1 Museum<\/span><\/a> then go eat at <\/span>Browne’s Marketplace<\/span><\/a> which is the oldest Irish business in America. They are known for their spectacular Reuben sandwiches and since the building is so old it is a house that has different Irish items you can buy in each of the rooms. Very cool and fun.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Negro Leagues Baseball Museum<\/span><\/a> offers a compelling look into the history and impact of African American baseball, showcasing the stories and achievements of legendary players and teams. Explore the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits, providing a comprehensive overview of the Negro Leagues’ legacy and contributions to the sport. Participate in a guided tour to gain insight into the challenges and triumphs faced by African-American ballplayers, or visit the museum’s gift shop to take home a piece of baseball history.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo opt: <\/b>Experience the museum’s Field of Legends, an outdoor exhibit featuring life-size bronze sculptures of Negro Leagues players, capturing the spirit and athleticism of the era.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Kansas City Zoo<\/span><\/a> is an essential destination for animal lovers, offering an experience across its sprawling 200-acre landscape. Home to over 1,700 animals, the zoo provides a diverse array of exhibits that transport visitors to various parts of the world. The African Plains exhibit is particularly impressive, where majestic giraffes, zebras, and elephants roam in habitats that mimic their natural environments. Meanwhile, the Helzberg Penguin Plaza is pretty fun, showcasing playful penguins in a state-of-the-art facility designed to mimic their frigid natural habitats.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The Australian exhibit offers a hands-on experience where visitors can hand-feed colorful lorikeets, bringing them face-to-face with these vibrant birds. Additionally, the zoo\u2019s iconic train ride offers a scenic tour, providing a comprehensive overview of the zoo\u2019s many attractions and stunning landscapes.<\/span><\/p>\n Don’t forget:<\/b> Make sure to attend one of the daily animal feedings and keeper chats. These sessions provide a glimpse into the lives of the zoo\u2019s residents and offer educational insights from the keepers who care for them.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Country Club Plaza<\/span><\/a> is Kansas City\u2019s premier shopping and dining district, renowned for its Spanish-inspired architecture and upscale ambiance. Visitors can wander along charming streets adorned with beautiful fountains, intricate statues, and designer boutiques. The Plaza\u2019s array of restaurants offers a global culinary tour, with options ranging from fine dining to casual eateries. The district\u2019s atmosphere is further enhanced by live music performances and seasonal events, making each visit unique. The Plaza\u2019s blend of culture, commerce, and community creates a fun experience that reflects the essence of Kansas City.<\/span><\/p>\n Local insight:<\/b> Experience the annual<\/span> Plaza Art Fair<\/span><\/a>. This event showcases works from local and national artists, transforming the Plaza into a dynamic art gallery and providing an opportunity to engage with the creative community.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Kansas City Museum<\/span><\/a> journeys through the city’s history, culture, and heritage. Housed in the historic 1910 Beaux-Arts style mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that showcase the evolution of Kansas City over the years. Explore the museum’s beautifully restored rooms, each offering a glimpse into the city’s past, or participate in one of the museum’s educational programs and events for a deeper understanding of Kansas City’s rich legacy.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo opt: <\/b>Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the museum’s meticulously landscaped grounds, including the scenic Reflecting Pool and iconic Corinthian Hall.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Power and Light District<\/span><\/a> is the heartbeat of Kansas City\u2019s entertainment scene, offering an electrifying mix of dining, shopping, and nightlife. This bustling district boasts a wide range of cuisines, from sophisticated steakhouses to laid-back eateries serving up local favorites. <\/span>The Kansas City Live!<\/span><\/a> Block is the district\u2019s centerpiece, an open-air venue that hosts live music and events year-round, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors. Whether you\u2019re catching a concert, enjoying a meal, or sipping a craft cocktail at one of the trendy bars and lounges, the Power and Light District promises a memorable experience.<\/span><\/p>\n Must do:<\/b> Don\u2019t miss the annual Beer,<\/span> Bourbon & BBQ Festival<\/span><\/a>. This themed event is a celebration of local flavors and brews, offering a unique opportunity to sample some of the best food and drink Kansas City has to offer.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> Arabia Steamboat Museum<\/span><\/a> offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the American frontier, showcasing the remarkable discovery and excavation of the sunken steamboat Arabia. Explore the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and treasures recovered from the steamboat, including everyday items, clothing, and tools that provide insight into life on the frontier in the 19th century. Take a guided tour to learn about the excavation process and the preservation of Arabia’s cargo, or visit the museum’s gift shop to take home a unique piece of history.<\/span><\/p>\n Tip: <\/b>The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM, and Monday to Tuesday from 10 AM to 5 PM. It is recommended to arrive early for parking.<\/span><\/p>\n The<\/span> West Bottoms Historic District<\/span><\/a> offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and vintage shopping, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of all things retro and antique. Explore the district’s historic buildings and warehouses, now home to a variety of antique stores, boutiques, and art galleries offering a treasure trove of vintage finds. Get more in touch with Kansas City culture, with live music performances, food trucks, and special events adding to the allure of this hidden gem in Kansas City.<\/span><\/p>\n Don’t forget: <\/b>Don’t miss the opportunity to attend one of the<\/span> district’s First Friday Weekend events<\/span><\/a>, featuring live entertainment and extended shopping hours.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"Kansas](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/shutterstock_2205738429.jpg\")
<\/p>\n1<\/b>. Check out the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"nelson](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/shutterstock_2318589575.jpg\")
<\/p>\n2. Ride the streetcar around town<\/b><\/h2>\n
4. Catch a Chiefs game<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Football](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/raymond-petrik-bbkIbELRxvM-unsplash-945x630.jpg\")
<\/p>\n5. Stroll through the Kansas City River Market<\/b><\/h2>\n
6. Enjoy the Rabbit hOle Immersive Museum<\/b><\/h2>\n
7. Enjoy the local cuisine<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Barbeque](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/sean-stone-0hOHNA3M6Ds-unsplash-944x630.jpg\")
<\/p>\n8. Get your heart pumping at Worlds of Fun<\/b><\/h2>\n
9. Visit the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art<\/b><\/h2>\n
10. Stay in one of the many local B&Bs and boutique hotels<\/b><\/h2>\n
Quick tip:<\/b>\u00a0Compare rates for your accommodations before visiting Kansas City, because local boutique hotels may prove more affordable than a chain hotel while offering additional curated amenities.<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Boutique](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Truitt_exterior-694x630.jpg\")
11. Explore Downtown Shawnee<\/b><\/h2>\n
12. Visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum<\/b><\/h2>\n
13. Visit the Kansas City Zoo<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Kansas](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/shutterstock_2024446328.jpg\")
<\/p>\n14. Explore the Country Club Plaza<\/b><\/h2>\n
15. Visit the Kansas City Museum<\/b><\/h2>\n
16. Experience the Power and Light District<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Power](\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/shutterstock_1658845525.jpg\")
<\/p>\n17. Visit the Arabia Steamboat Museum<\/b><\/h2>\n
18. Explore the West Bottoms Historic District<\/b><\/h2>\n
19. Experience the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts<\/b><\/h2>\n