Kansas City is famous for its iconic fountains, rich, diverse culture, world-class barbecue, vibrant arts, delicious dining, amazing hospitality, and family-friendly attractions. If you’re looking for things to do in Kansas City, also known as the City of Fountains and the Heart of America, here are the 15 best things to do.
Best Things to Do in Kansas City
1. Have fun With Your Family at the Worlds of Fun
It is an amusement park with several acres of rides and slides for people of all ages. Seven roller coasters are located there, including the most popular ones, Patriot, Steel Phantom, and Mamba. Other thrilling, adrenaline-rising rides include the Spinning Dragon, Finnish Fling, and Detonator. Family-friendly rides like Planet Snoopy and Autobahn will delight kids. Have splashing fun at the Oceans of Fun. Stroll around the international-themed areas such as Scandinavia, America, Africa, etc. With plenty of tasty food and ice-cold beverages, you are assured of a day of complete fun and enjoyment.
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2. Explore the Arabia Steamboat Museum
With 200 tons of cargo from the Arabia Steamboat that sank in 1856 and was recovered in 1988. Visit the cargo gallery which displays tools, clothing, cookware, cutlery, footwear, toys, pickles, door knobs, dishes, skeleton keys, and many more fascinating artifacts from the cargo. Watch videos that tell the story of the steamboat and the cargo it carried. You can also see the tree snag that caused the steamboat to sink. This museum provides a unique experience that you will never forget.
3. Learn About the History of Jazz at the American Jazz Museum
Jazz, a unique and vibrant music, is an original American art form. This museum celebrates Jazz’s historical and cultural contributions with rare photos, memorabilia, album covers, and many personal items that tell the stories of legends including Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, etc. Listen to jazz music from local and national artists at the Blue Room in a beautiful setting. Grab a t-shirt, cards, books, magazines, and other memorabilia from the gift shop. It is a must-visit for jazz fans.
4. Watch a Baseball Game at the Kauffman Stadium
Watching a baseball game in the iconic Kauffman Stadium in a vibrant atmosphere, festive fireworks, and an exciting backdrop is an incomparable experience. Take a tour of the stadium to see the press box, interview room, dugout, and other behind-the-scenes areas. There are many activities in the Outfield Experience, including Sluggerr’s mini golf, carousel, pitching mound, and many more. Take a test sprint on the base run to find how fast you can run.
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5. Visit the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium
The Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium is impressive, spread over 200 acres, and home to several thousand animals. Its world-class penguin exhibit is the best in the country. Take a sky safari to view the animals from the top. The aquarium, with a wide variety of marine life, delights not only children but also adults. The touch tank with bamboo sharks and stingrays is exciting. A visit to the zoo and aquarium is a great way to have fun with your family.
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6. Tour the National World War I Museum and Memorial
It has an excellent display that brings to life the memories of World War I. The stories of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice, as well as the diverse collections of WWI artifacts, are very moving. Climb up the Liberty Memorial Tower observation deck to get a 360-degree view of Kansas City’s skyline. Visit Memory Hall to see the largest oil painting in the world. The 45-foot-tall painting, with a 402-foot circumference, depicts wartime heroes. The main gallery, with a glass bridge entrance, is a new addition.
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7. Learn, Play, and Discover Science at the Science City
With more than 300 interactive exhibits, Science City is an awesome place to explore. The demos and activities ensure science fun for everyone, from infants to adults. One level features a music park, astronaut training center, treehouse severe storm center, crime lab, train overlook, and more. The other level has a maze park, kinderlab, city golf, nature center, public works, and more.
8. Shop for Fresh Produce From the City Market
The city market has an interesting history dating back to 1857. It is an amazing indoor and outdoor market with shops selling tons of fresh produce. The appetizing smells coming from the food stalls will tantalise your hunger. You can find several ethnic markets and food trucks with culinary delights from various countries. The place is also famous for its craft and antique shops. There is so much to do, see, and eat at the City Market.
9. Engage With Art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Undoubtedly, it is one of the best art museums in America. With more than 40,000 works of art from many countries all over the world, including India, Africa, China, Japan, Europe, America, etc., the museum has a glorious environment. Some of the art collections are more than 5000 years old, and some are modern art. Every time you visit,you will find something new. If you are an art lover, you will be impressed with the gifts sold at the museumstore
10. Delve Into the Past at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Museum
The museum opened its doors in 1957 and underwent a major renovation in 2021. Although it was established to preserve the historical papers, documents, and other materials from former President Harry S. Truman’s presidency, you can see a lot more. You will be impressed with the displays related to the Great War, WWII, Korean War, Red Scare, Civil Wars, Israel War, etc. The nearby attractions include the Truman Farm Home and the Truman Library.
11. Hike or Bike one of the Picturesque Trails
With more than 70 scenic trails, Kansas City is perfect for hiking and biking. You are assured of a serene atmosphere and peace in the Kansas City Trails. The most popular trails are Berkeley Riverfront Trail, Parkville Nature Sanctuary, Mill Creek Park, Bethany Falls, Sanders Mound, etc. See the hidden gems of the city, by taking a hiking or biking tour.
12. Enjoy With Your Kids at the Legoland Discovery Center
Won’t your little ones be delighted to see more than two million LEGO bricks under one roof? It is a place of fun and education for kids aged between 3 and 10 years. Don’t miss the MINILAND, where you can see the models of iconic landmarks of Kansas City built with LEGO bricks. There are more than 10 interactive build areas, a 4D cinema theater, and two rides for you to enjoy as a family.
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13. Explore the Underwater World at the Sea Life Aquarium
Displaying more than 5000 marinecreatures, including sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and countless fish, the Sea Life Aquarium is the best way to explore marine life with your family. Walk through the underwater tunnel, touch the underwater animals in the touch pool, see the beautiful jellyfish, feed the aquatic creatures, and immerse in a VR experience with your loved ones.
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14. Visit Country Club Plaza, Kansas City’s Shopping and Dining District
It is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in Kansas City with more than 120 shops and a wide array of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. Explore the shops and try diverse culinary options. Have fun at an Escape Room. Stroll through the hushing fountains. Attend special events and live music shows.
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15. Take a Tour at the Negro Leagues Baseball Stadium
Baseball fans will be stunned to see the multimedia exhibits, artifacts, photographs, replica statues, and other memorabilia of the popular baseball heroes. Discover the challenges faced by the coloured players and see a large collection of baseballs signed by famous players.
Concluding Words
Kansas City has several sites reflecting crucial historic moments of the country. It has something to offer for everyone. Plan your next vacation trip to Kansas City with your friends and family to create unforgettable memories.
