Kansas City might be known for their BBQ but what I found was a city thriving in class. There are some incredible museums that will awe and inspire you with art, history, and some uniquely curated collections. This city is booming with history and culture.
A visit here wouldn’t be complete without some Kansas City jazz music. Developed in the roaring 20’s and 30’s this style of music is distinctive to the Kansas City area. Pop into any of the nightclubs to get a taste of the soulful sounds.
During the day while wandering around the city, be on the lookout for the many fountains that adorn this beautiful city. Did you know that Kansas City is called “the City of Fountains”? You can’t miss them, there are over 200 of them!
There’s something for all the senses to enjoy in Kansas City, the taste and smell of BBQ, sounds of jazz, beauty of art, and the warm feeling it gives you to take it all in.
1. Nelson-Atkins Art Museum
Get out your pad and pencil – you’re sure to be inspired to create a masterpiece as you stroll through this magnificent art museum! Room after room of impeccable works from all over the world allow you to marvel at sculptures, paintings, pottery, and furniture designed by some of the greatest artists ever known. They have works from Vincent Van Gogh, Pierre Auguste Renior, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Rembrandt, to name a few, adorning the halls of this large museum.
The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum is free but feel free to make a donation. I spent about three hours here but for more interested parties that would not be long enough. The museum’s parking garage is a flat fee of $12 for the day, and it is the most convenient parking. You must wear backpacks to the side or on the front of your body, so make adjustments for your own convenience. There are seats available throughout the museum so you can rest and enjoy your favorite pieces of artwork. Check the Nelson-Atkins Art Museum website for more information.
2. Toy and Miniature Museum
Mary Harris Francis and Barbara Hall Marshall curated a vast collection of miniatures over their lifetime and now they share that with you at The National Toy and Miniature Museum. Their love for this art form is an encouraging reminder to always do what you love. If you liked doll houses as a child you will instantly feel like a five year old and want to play with everything in this museum.
My imagination was running wild as I peeked into each house. The houses range from one foot to ten feet tall. I could’ve crawled into one of the bigger ones with a small dog. These doll houses were not meant to be played with in the traditional sense; they are for displaying art and creativity in a fun and unique way. Some of the pieces are so small you need a magnifying glass to really see the details. You can even watch some short videos of how these intricately detailed miniature items are made.
After you’ve been amazed by the miniatures, head upstairs and be overwhelmed with nostalgia, or just feel old for having the toys you played with as a child in a museum like I did. Read about the transformation of toys over the decades; how they were made and how their purposes changed as society did. The innovations in the materials and the mechanics of toy making is fascinating. I loved being able to see the evolution of the toy industry. Everyone will find a piece of their childhood here. It can be fun to share those sweet memories with younger generations. This was such a fun and unique thing to do in Kansas City.
3. National WWI Museum and Memorial
I’m not much of a war buff but I do appreciate the significance and impact of history. World War I shaped the world in many ways. A walk through this museum will shine a light on the consequences of the few, and the chain reaction that ultimately caused the first global war. In the National WWI Museum and Memorial you will find the most comprehensive collection of weaponry, artillery, uniforms, and other memorabilia from WWI. I would recommend you sit and listen to some of the first hand experiences of those that lived through that tumultuous time.
Parking here is free and is conveniently located near other attractions such as crown center square, and Union Station. I spent about two hours here but definitely did not take the time to read everything (again, weaponry is not my thing). There’s a lengthy timeline of events that outlines what happened in the world from the beginning of the war to the end that could take some time to read through fully. I liked that the museum was laid out in the order of events so I could easily follow along. Pay close attention to the details of the exterior of the building, each piece has a meaning. There’s also a great view of the city from the museum.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial costs $18 for adults with reduced prices for seniors, veterans/active military, and children. There are additional costs for admission to the Liberty Memorial Tower and Wylie Gallery. The museum is closed on Mondays and open from 10am-5pm Tuesday through Sunday, check the National WWI Museum and Memorial website for updates and for holiday hours.
4. Kansas City Zoo
I can say with great confidence that Kansas City Zoo is one of the best zoos I have ever visited. There are a wide range of species represented. All the animals are in very nice enclosures that give them the space they need, and give guests the opportunity to admire them. Make sure you wear your walking shoes because this zoo will put your feet to the test.
I spent about five hours roaming around and enjoying each animal, but you could easily spend an entire day here. There is a tram that will transport you around the zoo with several stops along the way, but you will need to purchase tickets for the ride.
There are some opportunities to feed animals that require you to have quarters in order to obtain the food so bring some coins. At stingray bay you can pet stingrays and white spotted bamboo sharks or “cat sharks.” The stingrays have a soft and somewhat slimy texture, while the “cat sharks” have a rough feel. They’re also in the process of adding an aquarium that should open in the fall of 2023. I would definitely recommend that you catch the sea lion splash show.
Check the Kansas City Zoo schedule to take full advantage of the encounters and chats that are offered. This is a great way to learn about the animals and see them a little more active. Visiting zoos is a great way to aid in conservation efforts.
5. Green Lady Lounge
A visit to Kansas City would not be complete without a visit to a jazz club. With a $5 cover charge you can hang out in the Green Lady Lounge. Get lost in a dark corner booth while the sultry sounds of the jazz band radiate over the rumble of the crowd. Head over to the power and light district for more club options. Of all the things to do in Kansas City this is a must for all adults, especially if you’re a music lover. If you are really into jazz music and would like to pay tribute to some of the greats you should check out the American Jazz Museum.
6. Other Fun Things to do in Kansas City
Go on a treasure hunt to find the many ornate fountains that adorn Kansas City. Crown Center Square fountain has a water show coordinated to the music of the Kansas City Symphony everyday at noon, and every hour on the hour from five to nine pm. Walk over to Henry Wollman Bloch Fountain which lights up at night. There are many activities in the Crown Center Square area such as Legoland, Sea Life Kansas City, Union Station, Kaleidoscope, and the Hallmark Visitors Center. While you’re roaming around the city look for the many murals around town.
Eats + Treats
Mildred’s Cafe
A cafe and coffee shop with murals to commemorate the meal with, Mildred’s Cafe is such a delight. Walk in and order any of the yummy meals. Sit at the counter and watch your food being made in the kitchen just on the other side. A cinnamon roll appetizer is a must to go along with the sausage gravy and biscuits. This southern girl enjoyed every bite. My husband enjoyed the coffee, since I do not partake in the coffee craze he’s my go to for this knowledge. I loved that this cute little cafe has a clean look with local artists murals on the walls. Feel free to take a picture.
Neighborhood Cafe
On my way to the Kansas City Zoo I found this great diner to fuel up for my day. The best part about Neighborhood Cafe is that you get a free cinnamon roll while you wait for your food to cook. It came out warm, pillow soft, and the filling and icing were evenly distributed making every bite the perfect bite. The service was great. I loved the news article decor from throughout history and the tables covered in local business ads. Always support local businesses when possible.
Mission Taco Joint
If you’re looking for a great place to grab a quick bite this is it. Get street tacos a la carte with a side of Mexican street corn to share with a friend. Mission Taco Joint has a few locations in Kansas City so pop in and try as many tacos as you can. I was partial to the Mexican street corn, and could have shared it with one other person but why would you want to share something so good?
Grinders
Grinders is a fast casual restaurant serving New York style pizza, and sandwiches. Get the “funky dough” appetizer if you revel in the taste of cheese covered bread. You’ll die for this dish! The pizza is equally as delicious. Not only is Grinders a great restaurant it is an event venue that hosts bands on a large outdoor stage. Get some entertainment while you enjoy eating all the sinful carbs you can get your hands on.
Brick House
Go to the Brick House on Tuesday night and bring your smart friends for a few rounds of trivia. You will need a knowledge base spanning a variety of categories. The winning team gets a prize from the goodie basket. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t win because along the way you could win a few drinks to go with your delicious meal while having a blast. The food is superb. Start with some fried pickles or chips and queso.
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
Looking for a sweet treat? Look no further than Betty Rae’s Ice Cream. Get a yummy hot fudge brownie sundae like I did. The brownie chunks are fudgy and they gave me a lot of them. I would have gone back everyday if I didn’t enjoy fitting in my pants.
End of the Road
The many things to do in Kansas City left me very satisfied that I made the trip. I would describe it as a cultural type of vacation where I had the opportunity to experience things that I normally would not have had the chance to. I enjoy a good museum but I couldn’t get enough of the museums in Kansas City. It is a clean city with many wonderful aspects that I hope to enjoy again.
If you’re in the Kansas City area you should pop over to St. Louis for more exciting activities. There are so many fun Things to do in St. Louis that you will love. Subscribe to Chase New Horizons to stay up to date on all of our adventures. Follow us on social media to find out where we are heading next.
