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

Discover the heartland of America in Kansas City.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to KC!

  • Check-in at the historic Hotel Savoy, a boutique hotel with an award-winning bar.
  • Head to the Country Club Plaza, a beautiful outdoor shopping and dining district.
  • Take a stroll through Loose Park, a picturesque park with a rose garden and a lake.
  • Stop by the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, one of the country's best art museums.
  • Gorge on some of the best BBQ in KC at Joe's Kansas City BBQ. Don't miss the famous Z-Man sandwich.
Day 2

Adventures in the City

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Corner Restaurant, known for its delicious pancakes.
  • Take a ride on the KC Streetcar, a free service that takes you through downtown and the River Market.
  • Visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, a moving tribute to the Great War.
  • Catch a baseball game at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Royals.
  • Get your sushi fix at Nara, a popular restaurant in downtown KC.
Day 3

Fun in the Sun

  • Get out of the city and visit the Weston Bend State Park, a beautiful park with hiking trails and stunning views.
  • Head to Worlds of Fun, a family-friendly amusement park with thrilling rides.
  • Grab lunch at Q39, known for its delicious BBQ and innovative sides.
  • Visit the Kansas City Zoo and see over 1,000 animals from around the world.
  • Enjoy dinner at Bier Station, a craft beer bar with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 4

Farewell, KC

  • Start your day with a cup of coffee from Messenger Coffee in the Crossroads Art District.
  • Shop for souvenirs at the City Market, an outdoor market with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
  • Visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a tribute to the African American baseball players who played before Jackie Robinson.
  • Have a farewell dinner at the Green Lady Lounge, a jazz club with great drinks and live music.
  • End your evening with a nightcap at Manifesto, a speakeasy-style bar with amazing cocktails.

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

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.

Experience Kansas City: Art, Barbecue, and History

Kansas City is a vibrant city with a rich history, famous barbecue, and world-class museums. Visitors can explore the city's jazz and blues scene, catch a game at Kauffman Stadium or Arrowhead Stadium, and visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or the National World War I Museum. With a variety of attractions and a friendly Midwest atmosphere, Kansas City makes for a memorable destination for any tourist.

Kansas City on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun

A trip to Kansas City on a limited budget can still be a fun and memorable experience. An itinerary can include visiting free attractions such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or exploring the historic City Market. Budget-friendly food options can be found at local food trucks or happy hour specials at casual restaurants.

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.