Jazz, BBQ, and Art: A Kansas City Adventure

Experience the heartland on a budget: Your adventure awaits in Kansas City.

22 June 2023

A trip to Kansas City on a limited budget can be both enjoyable and affordable. Visitors can explore the city's rich history and culture through a variety of free attractions such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the National World War I Museum. Budget-friendly accommodations and dining options are also widely available in the city.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

City Adventure

  • Check in at Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown, an affordable boutique hotel with a sleek design and great location near Power & Light District.
  • Head to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, home to over 35,000 works of art including Monet, Warhol, and ancient Chinese artifacts.
  • Have lunch at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, a local favorite with mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and burnt ends.
  • Visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, an interactive museum that tells the story of the Great War.
  • Take a stroll at the Country Club Plaza, an outdoor shopping area inspired by Spanish architecture with over 150 shops and restaurants.
Day 2

Jazz and BBQ

  • Have breakfast at Finefolk, a fashionable coffee shop with delicious pastries and a curated selection of clothing and accessories.
  • Visit the American Jazz Museum, where you can learn about the history of jazz and see exhibitions featuring legends like Charlie Parker and Duke Ellington.
  • Head to Gates Bar-B-Q for lunch, a Kansas City staple with a variety of meats and signature sauce served with a side of showmanship.
  • Continue the jazz experience at the Mutual Musicians Foundation, a historic venue where you can catch live performances from local musicians.
  • Check out the West Bottoms district, where old warehouses have been converted into antique shops, vintage clothing stores, and trendy restaurants.
  • End the day at Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City's largest brewery with tours and tastings of their award-winning beers.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kansas City by plane is to fly directly into the Kansas City International Airport, which is located about 15 miles north of downtown Kansas City.

Car

Driving to Kansas City is straightforward, as it is located at the intersection of several major highways, including I-70, I-35, and I-29. However, be aware of potential traffic congestion during rush hour.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Kansas City. However, Amtrak's Southwest Chief line runs through nearby cities such as Topeka and Lawrence.

Boat

Kansas City is not accessible by boat as it is not located near a major body of water.

Bus

Greyhound and Megabus both offer bus service to Kansas City, with the Greyhound bus station located downtown and the Megabus stop located near the Country Club Plaza shopping district.

More travel plans

Kansas City Adventure: 5 Days of Fun on a Budget

Kansas City, located in the heart of the United States, offers a delightful family-friendly trip. Explore the rich culture and history by visiting attractions like the renowned Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Union Station. Enjoy a day of fun with the kids at the interactive Science City or Kansas City Zoo, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Kansas City: 3 Days of Romance, BBQ, and Fun

A romantic trip to Kansas City in the United States promises to be an enchanting experience. Enjoy the vibrant art and culture scene, indulge in some of the finest BBQ, and take a stroll down the romantic Country Club Plaza to savor the beautiful fountains and architecture. With a perfect blend of urban life and nature, Kansas City offers a delightful romantic escape for couples.

An Unforgettable Romantic Day in Kansas City

A romantic trip to Kansas City, United States offers an eclectic mix of urban and outdoorsy experiences. From savoring Kansas City-style BBQ to catching the sunset at the Liberty Memorial, there are plenty of romantic things to do. The historic architecture, jazz music scene, and vibrant arts district also add to the charm of this Midwest city.

Budget-Friendly Fun in Kansas City

Kansas City offers a great escape for budget travelers, with plenty of free or low-cost attractions to explore. Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, stroll through City Market, and take in the views at the rooftop of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Enjoy the city's famous barbecue scene without breaking the bank at local favorites like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Arthur Bryant's.