Experience Kansas City: Art, Barbecue, and History

Experience the heartland charm of Kansas City.

22 April 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Kansas City Charm

  • Start your day off with a caffeine boost at Messenger Coffee. Get a delicious pastry to go along with it, like a flaky croissant or a maple bacon scone.
  • Next up, head to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. You'll be impressed by the ever-changing exhibits on display, and the peaceful indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • Take a stroll through the Country Club Plaza, a charming outdoor shopping district that's perfect for window shopping, people watching, and getting lost in its European-inspired architecture.
  • For a lunch break, stop by Q39, a BBQ joint that has mouth-watering meats and savory sides. Try their brisket or burnt ends, and you won't be disappointed.
  • After lunch, head to the WWI Museum and Memorial. You'll learn about the history of the war and see artifacts that are sure to transport you back in time.
  • End your day on a high note by visiting the Crossroads Arts District. You'll see incredible street art and have the opportunity to check out local galleries showcasing talented artists. Grab some dinner at Grünauer, a delicious Austrian restaurant that will make you feel like you've taken a trip to Europe.

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

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.

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.

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.