Kansas City, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is quickly becoming a top destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of culture, history, and modern attractions. This city offers plenty of experiences, that appeal to everyone, from jazz enthusiasts and foodies to history buffs and art lovers. Getting to Kansas City is a lot easier and cheaper than you might think. There isn’t a bad time to visit the area! Spring and fall are the most pleasant weather-wise, and while summer is glorious, you are likely to find bigger crowds and higher costs. So, be prepared to be flexible with your dates and compare a few different airlines to find the best deal.
Why Is Kansas a Hotspot for Travellers?
Here’s why Kansas City should be on your travel radar:
#1. Music and Culture
Kansas City is often thought of as the “Heart of America” - not just geographically, but also due to its rich cultural tapestry, which can be seen in both its music and art offerings. The city has a deep-rooted connection to jazz and any music fans should make a trip to the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, where jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie once performed. The American Jazz Museum is also located in this area and offers interactive exhibits and live performances that transport visitors back to the golden age of jazz. Kansas City is also home to a thriving arts scene, which can be explored in the Crossroads Arts District. This vibrant neighbourhood, with its abundance of galleries, boutiques, and studios, comes alive on the first Friday of every month when local artists open their doors to the public. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, with its extensive collection ranging from ancient to contemporary works, is another must-visit for art buffs.
#2. Culinary Delights
When it comes to food, Kansas City is pretty proud of its offerings. Expect food to be rich, filling, and comforting - like a warm hug. Trendy salads and delicate little meals are not what Kansas is all about. The city is renowned for its barbecue, characterized by its unique sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, slathered over smoked meats (vegan alternatives available!). Head to Arthur Bryant’s or Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que to enjoy some delicious food that locals love and enjoy a side of beans with onion rings. If barbecue isn’t your thing, Kansas City has a flourishing food scene that includes everything from farm-to-table dining to innovative fusion cuisine. The River Market area is the place to be for hungry travellers, with its farmers’ market and eclectic mix of eateries, there is something to appeal to every member of your party - even the most fussy eaters - and the only struggle will be making a decision.
#3. Sports
Kansas City is known for passionate sports fans and there’s a reason that Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Kansas City Chiefs, holds the Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium! If baseball is more of your thing, Kauffman Stadium, where the Kansas City Royals play, is a welcoming, family-friendly stadium. Whatever your sports, you’ll be welcome to cheer along with the native Kansas sports fans - the louder the better after all!
#4. History and Architecture
For history buffs, the city’s rich past is clearly visible on its streets and buildings. For example, Union Station, a beautifully restored train station from 1914, is a glorious example of architecture and is also home to the Science City Museum, a planetarium, and travelling exhibits. The historic Westport neighbourhood, one of the oldest in Kansas City, gives a glimpse back into the city’s frontier past.
Its cobblestone streets are lined with 19th-century buildings that now host a mix of pubs, restaurants, and boutiques - the perfect way to see the architecture while enjoying a refreshing drink or a bite to eat. Did you know that, The National World War I Museum and Memorial is the only American museum dedicated to the Great War? It offers an immersive experience with exhibits that transport visitors back to one of the most pivotal times in global history. Head up the Liberty Memorial Tower to get the best views of the city from the open-air observation deck.
#5. Outdoor adventures
Kansas City is not just about urban experiences - it also offers plenty of green spaces for those who enjoy the great outdoors. The city’s many parks, such as Loose Park with its beautiful rose garden, and the sprawling Swope Park (which is more than twice the size of New York’s Central Park!) provide the perfect backdrop for picnics, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. For a more adventurous outing, the Kansas City Zoo and Starlight Theatre, both located in Swope Park, offer family-friendly entertainment, including concerts and shows. Meanwhile, the nearby Missouri River invites visitors to try kayaking, paddle-boarding, and other water sports, making Kansas City the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
#6. Kansas Locals
What truly makes Kansas City a winner for travellers, however, is its people. Known for their Midwestern hospitality, the locals are warm, welcoming, and always ready to share a story or a recommendation. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets of Westport, enjoying a jazz performance at a local club, or savouring a plate of the city’s famous burnt ends (a delicious barbecue delicacy of slow-cooked caramelized seitan - not actually burnt at all!), you’ll find that the spirit of Kansas City is entirely in its community.
Wrap Up: The Top Reasons Kansas Is a Hotspot for Travellers
Kansas City may not always be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip, but with its unique blend of culture, history, food, and friendly locals it truly is a destination worth discovering. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a mix of fun and education, Kansas City has something to offer. So next time you’re planning your travels, consider heading to the heart of America - you might just find that Kansas City has a little bit of everything you’re looking for.
What about you, have you ever been Kansas? Feel free to share any tips & advice below! (Images by Farhodjon Chinberdiev on Unsplash and Colby Files from Pixabay)
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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