The Ultimate 3-Day Kansas City Adventure

Discover the Midwest charm without breaking the bank in Kansas City.

22 June 2023

Kansas City has plenty of cultural, historical, and culinary attractions to explore, making it an ideal destination for budget-friendly travel. Some of the must-see attractions include the National WWI Museum and Memorial, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the Boulevard Brewing Company. Additionally, affordable accommodations are available throughout the city, such as hostels and budget-friendly hotels, and inexpensive dining options like BBQ joints and food trucks can help stretch your dollars even further.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

City Sightseeing and Barbecue

  • Start the day early with a visit to the National World War I Museum and Memorial
  • Head to the Country Club Plaza for upscale shopping and boutiques
  • For lunch, try the burnt ends at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que (a local favorite)
  • Visit the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts for a show or concert
  • End the night at the Power & Light District for nightlife and live music
  • Hotel recommendation: Best Western Plus Seville Plaza Hotel affordable and in a great location near the Plaza.
Day 2

Museums and Jazz

  • Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art for its extensive collection of European and American arts.
  • Indulge in a classic diner breakfast at Corner Cafe
  • Head to the American Jazz Museum to learn about the history of jazz and visit the adjacent Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
  • Grab a bite to eat at BB's Lawnside BBQ for live blues and soulful barbeque
  • End the night with a drink at Green Lady Lounge for live jazz music
Day 3

Parks and Local Eats

  • Visit the beautiful Loose Park for a peaceful morning stroll
  • Enjoy brunch at The Corner Restaurant, known for its farm-to-table dishes
  • Head to Boulevard Brewing Company for a tour and tasting of locally brewed beer
  • Explore the West Bottoms district for vintage shops and unique finds
  • For dinner, try the fried chicken at Stroud's, a Kansas City staple since 1933.
  • Note: Kansas City is known for its delicious local eats and iconic barbeque, so be sure to try as many food places as possible during your stay!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

KC on a Budget: Sightsee, BBQ, Adventure!

Kansas City offers a variety of budget-friendly attractions such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kansas City Zoo. Accommodation options include budget hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8, or hostels such as the Kansas City Hostel. For food options, head to local favorites such as Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Gates Bar-B-Q.

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.

Kansas City: A Memorable 4-Day Romantic Getaway

Kansas City is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway, offering an eclectic mix of activities and attractions. Couples can enjoy exploring the rising art scene, experiencing the city's famous BBQ joints, and strolling through picturesque parks. With its charming atmosphere and welcoming locals, Kansas City is the ideal destination for a memorable romantic trip.

Romantic Weekend in Kansas City, USA

Kansas City, a romantic destination in the United States, offers perfect opportunities for couples to explore the city's beauty and culture. Enjoy romantic strolls through the lush gardens at the Powell Gardens and the stunning scenery along the Missouri River. Indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the city's fine dining restaurants, featuring the famous KC barbecue and live jazz music.