Budget-Friendly Fun in Kansas City

Experience the heartland charm without breaking the bank in Kansas City.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering the Heart of KC

  • Start your day at City Market, a bustling hub for local farmers and makers, with plenty of tasty brunch options.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Kauffman Memorial Gardens, home to over 7,000 blooms and a stunning variety of trees, plants, and fountains.
  • Head to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where admission is free and you can marvel at the impressive collection of works from around the world.
  • Grab lunch at Betty Rae's Ice Cream Shop, where the inventive flavors are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
  • Explore the Crossroads Arts District, a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, boutiques, and street art.
  • Wrap up the day at Boulevard Brewing Company, with a free tour of the brewery and some local brews on tap.

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.

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.

5 Days of Fun in Kansas City, USA

As a tourist in Kansas City, visitors can experience a variety of cultural and historical attractions such as the National World War I Museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the famous Kansas City BBQ cuisine. They can also enjoy outdoor activities in the beautiful parks and gardens, catch a live concert at the iconic Liberty Memorial, or watch a game of the Kansas City Chiefs or Royals. Overall, Kansas City offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban vibrancy, making it a must-see destination for any traveler.

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.