3 Days of Fun: Kansas City Travel Guide

Experience the heartland charm of Kansas City, where BBQ and jazz are always on the menu.

03 May 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Glimpse into Kansas City's History

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Succotash, known for its unique take on Southern-style dishes.
  • Visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  • Have lunch at Jack Stack Barbecue, a local favorite for their delicious ribs and burnt ends.
  • Tour the historic Kansas City Union Station, a beautiful architectural landmark, and see the Science City museum inside.
  • End the day with drinks at The Green Lady Lounge, a cozy jazz club with live music every night.
  • Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Phillips Downtown Kansas City
Day 2

Art and Entertainment

  • Have breakfast at Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout, known for their freshly baked pastries and savory dishes.
  • Visit the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing works from local and international artists.
  • Stroll through the Country Club Plaza, an outdoor shopping center with Spanish-inspired architecture.
  • Enjoy lunch at Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue, another location of the famous BBQ joint.
  • Catch a performance at the KC Repertory Theatre or the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
  • Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Indigo Kansas City The Crossroads
Day 3

Explore the Outdoors

  • Start your day with breakfast at Meshuggah Bagels, known for their authentic New York-style bagels.
  • Explore the 180-acre Kauffman Memorial Garden, featuring beautiful flowers and fountains.
  • Walk or bike along the scenic Missouri Riverfront, stopping for a picnic lunch.
  • Visit the Arabia Steamboat Museum, showcasing artifacts from an 1856 steamboat that sunk and was excavated.
  • End the day with dinner at Q39, known for its award-winning BBQ and unique sides.
  • Hotel Recommendation: The Fontaine Hotel, a Curio Collection by Hilton
  • Kansas City offers a blend of history, art, entertainment, and outdoor adventure. Get ready for a unique experience!

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

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Type of trip

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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.

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.

Discover the Best of Kansas City in 2 Days

Kansas City is a vibrant city in the Midwest region of the United States, worth visiting for its rich history, music, and barbecue. A must-visit attraction in the city is the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits from the Great War. Additionally, tourists can enjoy live jazz performances in the city's many jazz clubs and indulge in some of the best barbecue in the country at iconic spots like Gates BBQ and Arthur Bryant's.

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.