Kansas City

Travel Guide
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts showing interior views and modern architecture
The land of jazz, barbecues and fountains is carving out its place as a prime travel destination in the heart of Midwestern America.

Kansas City, also known as “K.C.,” balances many identities: a cradle of jazz, home to world-renowned fountains, and the birthplace of the American barbecue. The largest city in Missouri might seem a bit disjointed – it’s even split across two states and a river – but it all comes together in an inviting way. Art galleries, city parks, high-profile performances and museums all serve to make this city one of the most interesting in the Midwest.

Swing past the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art or explore ancient relics and modern masterpieces at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. The museum’s sculpture park is an ideal place to bring a picnic. Children will love the hands-on experience at the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City. Explore the unique exhibits in the Arabia Steamboat Museum, wander through the River Market area and stop by the City Market on weekends to sample local produce and handmade goods.

The historic Westport area is a great place to stop for lunch and explore the city’s past. Look for restaurants serving home-style barbecue and classic hickory-smoked cuisine. Music aficionados should head down to 18th and Vine, which is just east of downtown, to experience one of the heartlands of American jazz.

Head beyond the city center and visit the expansive Swope Park. In addition to numerous trails, a golf course and gardens, the park is also home to the Kansas City Zoo and the Starlight Theatre, two of the most visited venues in Kansas City. To the north of the city, Worlds of Fun will keep the kids amused for hours, while the Harley-Davidson Factory will appeal to motorcycle enthusiasts. When the weather gets warm, bring the family to Schlitterbahn Water Park, home to the mighty Verrückt, one of the world's tallest waterslides. Back in town, the Liberty Memorial has an internationally renowned World War I museum.

Although Kansas has a reliable public transportation network, the car is still the major mode of transportation in the city and is necessary if you want to explore some attractions outside the city center.

Where to stay in Kansas City

The Legends in KCK. This picture was taken with my cell phone just after a storm moved through.

I-435 West KC-KS

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in I-435 West KC-KS, Legends Outlets Kansas City and Children's Mercy Park are top sights worth seeing.

I-435 West KC-KS
Best ribs I ever tasted! Go to Oklahoma joes.

Rosedale

While visiting Rosedale, you might make a stop by sights like 39th Street West and Rosedale Memorial Arch.

Rosedale
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Edwardsville

Visitors to Edwardsville like its shopping and entertainment venues, and Village West is a sight worth a stop.

Edwardsville
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Shawnee Heights

If you're spending some time in Shawnee Heights, Boulevard Drive-In Theater and Sauer Castle are top sights worth seeing.

Shawnee Heights
Kansas City

Riverview

While visiting Riverview, you might make a stop by sights like Kansas City Memorial Hall and Granada Theater.

Riverview
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Fairfax

Restaurants and shopping are just a few things travelers like about Fairfax. A stop by Missouri River is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

Fairfax
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kansas City at Village West, KS
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kansas City at Village West, KS
3 out of 5
1805 N 110th St, Kansas City, KS
The price is CA $121 per night from Apr. 1 to Apr. 2
CA $121
CA $142 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kansas City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,011 reviews)
"Nice place to stay at a good price."

Reviewed on Mar. 26, 2024

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kansas City at Village West, KS
Baymont by Wyndham Kansas City KU Medical Center
Baymont by Wyndham Kansas City KU Medical Center
2.5 out of 5
501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, KS
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $93 per night from Mar. 31 to Apr. 1
CA $93
CA $109 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 31 - Apr 1
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Kansas City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the clean rooms and the property condition ...
5.4/10 (1,001 reviews)
"Floors were not vacuumed at all through the entire property. No towels available when we arrived, had to ask for them. Left over dirty clothes in the room upon arrival. Property itself was in poor condition all over. Was convenient for the places we visited but otherwise if we go to that area again ..."

Reviewed on Mar. 24, 2024

Baymont by Wyndham Kansas City KU Medical Center
American Motel Kansas City, Kansas
American Motel Kansas City, Kansas
2 out of 5
7949 Splitlog Ave, Kansas City, KS
The price is CA $78 per night from Apr. 5 to Apr. 6
CA $78
CA $95 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Stay at this motel in Kansas City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
6.4/10 (888 reviews)
"Minus police activity upon check in & noisy kids horse playing next door it was a very good stay overall"

Reviewed on Mar. 4, 2024

American Motel Kansas City, Kansas
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Modern Home in Historic Strawberry Hill w/ a view of Downtown KC - Pet Friendly
Modern Home in Historic Strawberry Hill w/ a view of Downtown KC - Pet Friendly
Kansas City
Stay at this vacation home in Kansas City. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and a porch. Popular attractions T-Mobile Center and Science City at Union Station ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (29 reviews)
Great spot!
"Spent some time near family for Thanksgiving and this location was ideal!"

Reviewed on Dec. 11, 2023

Modern Home in Historic Strawberry Hill w/ a view of Downtown KC - Pet Friendly
Downtown Bungalow | Fully Updated | Best KC Views
Downtown Bungalow | Fully Updated | Best KC Views
Kansas City
Stay at this vacation home in Kansas City. Enjoy WiFi, onsite parking, and fenced yards. Popular attractions T-Mobile Center and Science City at Union Station ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (35 reviews)
Dangerous
"Around 10:30pm the gun shots started. They were very close to the property and on multiple sides. Terrifying night. 0/10. Do. Not. Stay. Here."

Reviewed on Apr. 17, 2023

Downtown Bungalow | Fully Updated | Best KC Views
💎KCK Speedway Retreat❤️✧Whole House✧
💎KCK Speedway Retreat❤️✧Whole House✧
Kansas City
Stay at this vacation home in Kansas City. Enjoy WiFi, 4 bathrooms, and 5 bedrooms. Popular attractions Legends Outlets Kansas City and Hollywood Casino at Kansas ...
💎KCK Speedway Retreat❤️✧Whole House✧
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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