There are many reasons why you need to visit Kansas City. It’s affordable, extremely romantic, historic yet modern, relaxed yet fun, and the people are just too amazing. Let’s not forget, they are famous for their barbecues and steaks. It’s recommended for a quick weekend getaway or for longer vacations. No matter how long you stay here, we’re sure your schedules will be jam-packed every single day. There are a lot of things to do in Kansas City and it can get overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.
That’s why we created this post. Aside from appreciating the Jazz music, here are the activities and places you shouldn’t miss when you are in the city.
Take the Streetcar
First on our list is to take the streetcar. It’s the perfect way to ride through the city’s downtown. This connects the River Market to Union Station/Crown Center. And the best part about this – it’s absolutely free. It runs in street lanes and the stops are spaced around two blocks away from each other. Here is the list of the stops:
- Union Station
- Crossroads
- Kauffman Center
- Power & Light
- Metro Center
- Library
- North Loop
- City Market
- River Market North
- River Market West
If you are bringing a bicycle or if you have a stroller or wheelchair, you can take that too and still be able to enjoy the ride with ease. They have long hours of operations as well.
Don’t forget to check the KC streetcar’s website to see the real-time schedule tracker.
Walk, Everywhere
If you are going to Kansas City, you better prepare your most comfortable walking shoes. It is fairly common to see tourists walking around the city. But before you do this, make sure you get permission from your doctor.
There are a lot of walking tours to choose from. Some of the best ones are the Kansas City History Tour, Crown Center Walk, City Landmarks in North Walk, and City Landmarks in South Walk.
You can even use self-guided tour apps such as GPSMyCity if you are a bit adventurous. The advantage of this is that you don’t have to cramp yourself on a bus and you can be at your own pace.
Grab a Beer, then Walk to the Next Bar for Another
Kansas is also a great place to go bar hopping. In fact, the nightlife in the city is considered the best in the Midwest. Some of the best places we’ve visited are the Westport Ale House, iTap, Border Brewing, Tom’s Town, The Monarch Bar, and Manifesto. Although if you are looking for a place to drink and dance, Mosaic, PBR Big Sky, and Aura Night Club could be your perfect choices.
Parlor
The Parlor is an amazing place where different chefs come together to provide unique culinary concepts and innovative craft beers and cocktails. This is a good venue for people to just relax and create connections either with locals and tourists. If you want a diverse selection of foods and drinks, you have to visit this place. It’s one of the many things to do in Kansas City you shouldn’t miss.
They also have weekly events. On Tuesdays, they have Industry Night where you just need to show proof of employment to get 50% off your bar tab. Thursdays are dedicated to their Reverse Ladies Night so if you have your girlfriends, recommend this place and get the tickets directly from the website. But if you want some good live music, then go to the Parlor every Friday and Saturday.
Crossroads Hotel
If you are still looking for accommodation in Kansas, we highly recommend the Crossroads Hotel. You will be in awe with their gorgeously designed suites. Right off the bat, you would notice how they balanced historic and modern designs. Think about bricks, hardwood, and industrial materials all in one.
Local artists and designers were tapped to showcase their creativity at the Crossroads Hotel. Thus, it’s not surprising that it came out beautifully.
If you choose some of their premium suites, you even get to enjoy your own billiard pool. Of course, we don’t expect that you will use it a lot. After all, there are a lot of things to do in Kansas City.
There are also event halls and meeting spaces if you are in the area for business. And after an exhausting day, you can treat yourself at the Lazia Restaurant, Percheron Rooftop Bar, and XR Cafe.
Nelson Atkins Museum
Don’t miss the chance to see the Nelson Atkins Museum.
There are different tours to choose from. They have the Art Beyond Sight Tours for people with low vision or are blind. And for adults living with memory loss, the Minds in Motion Tours is highly recommended.
Check out the different art collections and the Bloch Building Architecture. You will never run out of things to see here, and it’s best to save at least half a day for it.
You can have a quick coffee break at the Thou Mayest Coffee if you need some rest. And of course, if you want to take a piece of Nelson Atkins Museum with you, they have a gift shop with some of the most amazing finds.
With the COVID-19 on the rise, the museum now has a number of new protocols. All guests are required to wear a mask. If you do not have one with you, you can purchase it in the museum. You also have to check their website first to get tickets as they are only allowed to accommodate limited visitors.
Bar-K
Bar-K has so much to offer. It has a modern bar, an event space, a restaurant, and a dog park. Now, you can freely bring your fur baby and enjoy some great food and awesome drinks.
We recommend that you try the Tuna Wonton Nachos, Soft Pretzel Sticks, and Chicken Tenders. They also have the Vegan Pasta Bowl if you are on a special diet. And of course, they have a wide selection of sandwiches. Our favorite is the Bar K Burger which is a seasoned patty on a potato bun with cheddar!
The establishment is made out of repurposed shipping containers. If you do not have a dog, you can go here for free. But if you want to bring your furry pal, you must become a member first or get a guest pass. This is truly one of the best things to do in Kansas City.
Cellar Rat Wine
Whether you are a wine enthusiast or not, we would still encourage you to visit Cellar Rat Wine. They have a great selection of beverages around the globe. And there is also a separate selection from Artisan producers. You see, it’s always a nice idea to take a sip and learn the culture and heritage from a different perspective.
To have better wine experience, we urge you to take their public and private classes or join the wine tasting events.
Their event space can house a maximum of 14 people. If you have a larger group, they can also accommodate it by having a buffet-style table so you can go around and mingle with other attendees. You need a credit card to make a reservation and secure the headcount 48 hours before the event.
River Market
Do you want to see how vibrant and diverse Kansas City is? Then don’t ever miss going to the River Market. As a visitor, you can shop, play, and dine here.
What we love about the River Market is that you get to shop for different items. It could be fruits or some cute souvenirs you can bring back home. Whether exotic or imported, they have it here.
Likewise, you can start your day by hiking, biking, and boating within the area. There is always an activity perfect for the entire family. The views are fantastic as well and you will certainly feel relaxed.
And to end your tour here, treat yourself for some scrumptious meals. You can choose international cuisines, coffee shops, or breweries. Enjoy your food as you listen to soothing music.
Amigoni Urban Winery and Stockyards
The Amigoni Urban Winery is located in the Daily Drover Telegram Newspaper building, a historic place which gives it more character. You can visit their tasting room for only $10 for five wines. Or perhaps, go to their production facility and get to see how their wines are made.
Fox and the Pearl
The last on our list of things to do in Kansas City is to dine in Fox and the Pearl.
If you are craving for some Southern and Midwestern cooking, Fox and the Pearl is your best place in Kansas. What we love about this bistro is that they work directly with farmers which makes all their food fresh. Other produce and meat are also sourced locally.
Fox and the Pearl is located on the edge of the Crossroads at 2143 Summit St. It was a lodge built in 1907. Imagine the cool ambiance you’d experience if you choose to dine here.
You can chill in their bar at the main level or enjoy great meals with your family at the upper kitchen level. And if you wish for an intimate speakeasy-style bar experience, then go ahead to the lower level of the establishment. This has got to be one of the best places to finish off your Kansas tour.
