Kansas City is a city that has something for everyone. In this article, we will cover some of the best things to do in Kansas City. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting for the weekend, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in KC!
Things to do for fun in Kansas City
Jump to your favorite thing to do below!
Get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of Kansas City
If you’re looking for something fun to do in Kansas City, you’ll love exploring the area’s natural beauty. Overland Park Arboretum, Missouri River, hiking trails, Santa Fe Trail and Botanical Gardens offer a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
Overland Park Arboretum: The Overland Park Arboretum is a 300-acre botanical garden with 12 miles of hiking trails. The Arboretum is home to a variety of plant life, including more than 13,000 trees and shrubs. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site restaurant, cafe, and gift shop.
Ernie Miller Nature Center: The Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe, KS is a great place to visit if you are interested in being with nature. The center has a wide variety of nature-based programs to enjoy.
Missouri River: The Missouri River is one of the longest rivers in North America, stretching over two thousand miles. The river offers a variety of activities for visitors, including fishing and boating.
Hiking Trails: Kansas City is home to a number of hiking trails, including the Indian Creek Trail and the Blue River Parkway Trail. These trails offer beautiful views of the city and are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous hike.
Santa Fe Trail: The Santa Fe Trail was a historic trade route that stretched from Missouri to New Mexico. Today, the trail is open to hikers and cyclists. The trail offers stunning views of the countryside and is a great way to experience the history of the American West.
Lakeside Nature Center: The Lakeside Nature Center is an animal rescue facility located near Swope Park. There are several family friendly ways to get involved in a great cause at Lakeside.
Botanical Gardens: The Kansas City Botanical Gardens is a 14-acre public garden with more than 15,000 plants. The gardens feature a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, an herb garden, and a children’s garden. The gardens are open year-round and offer a variety of events and programs for visitors.
The Kansas City Botanical Gardens is a great place to spend an afternoon if you’re looking for something fun to do in Kansas City. The gardens feature a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, an herb garden, and a children’s garden. The gardens are open year-round and offer a variety of events and programs for visitors.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring! Kansas City has something for everyone. And, who knows, you might just find your new favorite spot.
Take a walk or bike ride through one of the city’s many parks
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Kansas City. Whether you’re looking for a wild adventure at the zoo or want to enjoy a leisurely walk through one of the city’s many parks, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. In this section, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to some of the best attractions Kansas City has to offer.
Swope Park: Swope Park is the largest park in Kansas City, and it’s a great place to spend a day if you’re looking for something to do. The park features more than 80 acres of hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and more. There’s also a zoo and an amphitheater in the park, and it’s a great place to catch a concert or play in the summer months.
Kansas City Zoo: Take a walk on the wild side at the Kansas City Zoo. The Kansas City Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the United States, and it’s a great place to spend a day if you’re looking for something fun to do in Kansas City. The zoo features more than 200 acres of animal exhibits, including an African Savannah, an Australian Outback, and a Polar Bear Plunge. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
Kauffman Memorial Garden: The Kauffman Memorial Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of downtown Kansas City. The garden features more than 24 acres of flowers, trees, and plants, as well as a scenic pond and waterfall. The garden is open year-round, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Loose Park: Loose Park is one of the most popular parks in Kansas City, and it’s perfect for a day of picnicking, hiking, or just relaxing in the sun. The park features more than 70 acres of land, and it’s home to a variety of flowers, trees, and plants. There’s also a playground and a pond in the park, and it’s a great place to take the kids for a day of fun.
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Kansas City. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. So get out there and explore all that Kansas City has to offer!
Visit some of KC’s famous attractions
There’s no shortage of things to do in Kansas City, and this comprehensive guide will show you some of the best. From world-class museums to iconic tourist destinations, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. So get out there and explore all that KC has to offer!
Art Museums: There are a variety of art museums in the city that you can visit. These include the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Museum, and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: Often referred to as “the living room of Kansas City”, the Kauffman Center is a world-renowned performing arts venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From Broadway shows to symphony orchestra performances, there’s something for everyone at the Kauffman Center.
Liberty Memorial: A National Historic Landmark, the Liberty Memorial is a monument dedicated to those who served in World War I. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of the war, or take in the breathtaking view from the top of the memorial.
The National World War Museum is a must-see for any history buff. Located in downtown Kansas City, the museum tells the story of World War I through a variety of exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can also take part in a number of educational programs offered by the museum.
Nelson Atkins Museum: One of KC’s most popular tourist destinations, the Nelson Atkins Museum is home to a vast collection of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works. There’s something for everyone at the Nelson Atkins Museum, so be sure to add it to your list of things to do in Kansas City.
Wornall House Museum: The Wornall House Museum is a historic house museum that tells the story of early Kansas City life. Visitors can tour the house and learn about the history of the Wornall family, or take part in one of the many events and programs offered throughout the year.
American Jazz Museum: The American Jazz Museum is a must-visit for any music lover. Located in the historic 18th and Vine District, the museum celebrates the history and legacy of jazz music. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, catch a live performance, or take part in one of the many educational programs offered.
Independence Temple: The Independence Temple is a historic landmark and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kansas City. The temple is open to the public for tours, and visitors can also take part in a number of events and programs offered throughout the year.
National Airline History Museum: The National Airline History Museum is a must-visit for any aviation enthusiast. Located at Kansas City’s Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport, the museum houses a collection of historic aircraft and artifacts. Visitors can also take part in a number of educational programs offered by the museum.
American Jazz Museum: The American Jazz Museum is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about the history of jazz music. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits that you can view, and it is also a great place to learn about the city.
National Museum of Toys: The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about the history of toys. The museum is located on University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC) campus and is home to the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures in the world.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum: The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about the history of African American baseball players. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits that you can view, and it is also a great place to learn about the sport in the early part of the 20th century and how it has impacted the game today.
Arabia Steamboat Museum: The Arabia Steamboat Museum is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about the steamboat that sank in the Missouri River in 1856. The 30,000-square-foot museum has a wide variety of exhibits and artifacts that you can view, and learn about the history.
Kemper Museum: The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about the history of art. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits that you can view, and it is also a great place to learn about the city.
Union Station: Union Station is one of Kansas City’s most popular tourist destinations. The station is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, and visitors can also take part in a number of events and programs offered throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to explore KC’s history or simply take in the sights, Union Station is a great place to start.
If you’re looking for even more things to do, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to KC’s best tourist destinations.
Head to the City’s Entertainment Districts and explore
If you’re looking for a good time in Kansas City, you won’t have to look far. The city has no shortage of entertainment districts where you can find live music, great food, and plenty of nightlife. Here’s a guide to some of the best entertainment districts in KC.
Westport: This is one of the most popular areas in the city, and for good reason. Westport has a little bit of everything, from live music to bars and clubs to some of the best restaurants in town. There’s always something going on in Westport, so you’re sure to have a good time no matter what you’re looking for.
Country Club Plaza: This is a must-visit for any Kansas City visitor. The Country Club Plaza is home to some of the best shopping and dining in the city, as well as a variety of attractions like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and KC’s iconic fountains. In the evening, the Plaza comes alive with its many bars and clubs.
The Country Club Plaza is a beautiful area of the city that is full of shops and restaurants. This is a great place to visit if you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the city.
18th & Vine jazz district: This is the place to go if you’re a fan of jazz music. The 18th & Vine district is home to some of the best jazz clubs in town, as well as the American Jazz Museum. If you’re looking for a more low-key evening, there are also plenty of great restaurants in the area.
Power & Light District: This is downtown Kansas City’s entertainment district. The Power & Light District has a variety of bars and clubs, as well as live music and a movie theater. It’s the perfect place to go for a night out on the town.
Downtown Kansas City: Downtown KC is home to a variety of attractions, including the Sprint Center, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and Crown Center. There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars in the area. If you’re looking for a more low-key evening, downtown KC is also home to a number of art galleries and museums.
River market: The River market is a great place to spend a day or evening. There are a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as the Kansas City Farmer’s Market. In the evening, the River market comes alive with its many bars and clubs.
Crossroads art district: This is the place to go if you’re looking for a more artsy evening. The Crossroads art district is home to a number of art galleries and studios, as well as live music venues. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are also plenty of great restaurants in the area.
Crown center: Crown center is home to a variety of attractions, including the Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life Aquarium, and the Outdoor Ice Skating Rink. There are also plenty of great shops and restaurants in the area. Crown center is a great place to spend a day or evening with family and friends.
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Kansas City. So whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a more low-key evening, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in KC.
Other Unique Wonders
Kansas City is a city that has something for everyone. In addition to the attractions mentioned above, there are also many other wonderful places to visit in the city. These include the Kansas City Public Library, the Country Club Plaza, Arrowhead Stadium, and the American Jazz Museum. There are also several amusement parks in the area, including Worlds of Fun and Sea Life Kansas City. No matter what your interests are, you will be sure to find something to do in Kansas City that you enjoy!
Kansas City Public Library: The Kansas City Public Library is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning more about the history of the city. The library has a wide variety of books and other resources that you can use to learn about the city.
The Stadiums: Arrowhead Stadium is the home of the Kansas City Chiefs. If you are a fan of football, this is a great place to visit. The stadium is also a great place to learn about the history of the team, and the Kauffman Stadium where the Kansas City Royals play in nearby.
Worlds of Fun: This amusement park is a great place to visit if you are looking for a place to have fun. The park has a variety of rides and attractions that you can enjoy, and it is also a great place to learn about the history of the city.
Kansas Speedway: Home of NASCAR races, you can also enjoy the Richard Petty Driving Experience and the Kansas Speedway Museum while you’re here during select times of the year.
Penguin Park: Penguin Park is a great place to visit if you are a fan of giant animal sculptures, a picnic shelter & barbecue grills. The park is family-friendly and is located in North Kansas City.
Food Trucks: Food trucks are a great way to experience the city. There are a variety of different food trucks that you can visit, and they offer a variety of different cuisines.
No matter what your interests are, you will be sure to find something to do in Kansas City that you enjoy! There are a variety of attractions and activities that you can enjoy in the city, and you will be sure to find something that you love.
There are a variety of different things to do in Kansas City, and you are sure to find something that you enjoy. Be sure to check out these fun and exciting attractions when you are in the city!
Whether you’re a Kansas City local or just visiting, there’s plenty to do in this vibrant city. From outdoor activities and famous attractions to unique museums and districts, you’re sure to find something that interests you. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped give you some ideas of what to check out during your stay. If not, don’t worry- there’s always something new to discover in KC. What are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!
