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.

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Travel plan

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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.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Kansas City

Welcome to the land of BBQ, jazz, and a football team that gives fans just enough hope to keep them coming back. That's right, we're talking about the city where you can have a plate of ribs and a side of disappointment all in one meal.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

3 Days of Fun: Kansas City Travel Guide

A trip to Kansas City will introduce you to the cultural and historical landmarks of the city such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Arabia Steamboat Museum, and the National World War I Museum. You can also delight in the famous Kansas City-style barbecue and explore the Jazz District, the birthplace of jazz music legends such as Charlie Parker and Count Basie. Finally, do not forget to catch a game at the world-class sports venues like the Arrowhead Stadium and the Kauffman Stadium.

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 Adventure: From Zoo to Brews

Kansas City is a vibrant destination perfect for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a wide range of attractions, including the Kansas City Zoo, where kids can interact with various animals. Families can also explore the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and Science City, both offering educational and entertaining experiences for children of all ages.

4-Day Kansas City Adventure: Music, BBQ, and Fun!

A trip to Kansas City as a tourist offers a variety of experiences. Visitors can enjoy the rich history of jazz music, explore the city's 200 fountains, and indulge in BBQ at world-renowned restaurants. Other must-see attractions include the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Boulevard Brewing Company, and the National World War I Museum.