Looking for a vibrant city with rich history, cultural attractions, and mouth-watering BBQ? Kansas City, Missouri, offers an exciting mix of arts, sports, and local flavor.
Whether you’re a history buff, music lover, or foodie, this 3-day itinerary will help you experience the best of what Kansas City has to offer.
What to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
Kansas City is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities are pleasant.
Summers can be hot, but it’s a great time for music festivals and baseball games. Winters are cold, but if you don’t mind the chill, the city’s museums and jazz clubs will keep you entertained.
Where to Stay
For easy access to Kansas City’s best attractions, stay in Downtown or the Country Club Plaza. Downtown offers modern hotels and proximity to the city’s cultural hotspots, while the Plaza is known for its upscale shopping and dining.
Budget travelers will find plenty of affordable hotels near Westport, a historic area filled with nightlife and local eateries.
Getting Around
Kansas City is spread out, so having a car is the most convenient way to explore. The city does have a free KC Streetcar that runs from the River Market to Union Station, making it easy to explore Downtown and nearby attractions without driving. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
Day 1: Discover Kansas City’s History and Art
Morning: National WWI Museum and Memorial
Start your first day at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, one of the world’s most comprehensive museums dedicated to World War I.
Begin your visit by crossing the glass bridge over a field of 9,000 poppies, each representing 1,000 combatant deaths. Explore exhibits on the war’s impact and climb to the top of the Liberty Memorial for stunning views of the Kansas City skyline.
Mid-Morning: Union Station
Next, head to Union Station, a beautifully restored Beaux-Arts building that once served as a bustling railroad station. Now, it houses interactive exhibits, a science museum, and rotating art displays.
Be sure to stop by Science City for fun, hands-on learning experiences, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Afternoon: Lunch in the River Market
For lunch, head to the River Market, an eclectic area filled with local food vendors and eateries. Try Beignet KC for some New Orleans-style pastries or The Bite for a fresh sandwich made with locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, take a stroll through the City Market, where you can shop for fresh produce and local goods.
Afternoon: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
In the afternoon, visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, known for its extensive collection of art spanning centuries and cultures. Don’t miss the outdoor Sculpture Park, home to the iconic Shuttlecocks sculptures. Admission to the museum is free, making it a great spot to spend a few hours exploring.
Evening: Dinner at Q39
End your first day with dinner at Q39, one of Kansas City’s best spots for barbecue. Try the brisket or pulled pork, and don’t forget the signature burnt ends, a Kansas City BBQ specialty. The lively atmosphere and award-winning BBQ will leave you satisfied after a day of sightseeing.
Day 2: Jazz, Shopping, and Sports
Morning: American Jazz Museum
Begin day two with a visit to the American Jazz Museum in the historic 18th & Vine District, where jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie once played. Learn about Kansas City’s vital role in the history of jazz, and enjoy interactive exhibits that celebrate the music’s evolution.
Mid-Morning: Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Next door to the Jazz Museum is the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, which celebrates the history of African American baseball and its impact on the sport and culture. The museum features exhibits on legendary players like Satchel Paige and Jackie Robinson.
Afternoon: Lunch and Shopping at Country Club Plaza
For lunch, head to Country Club Plaza, a historic shopping district inspired by Spanish architecture. You’ll find plenty of dining options, from casual spots to upscale restaurants.
Try Brio Tuscan Grille or The Capital Grille for a leisurely meal. After lunch, spend some time browsing the Plaza’s high-end shops, local boutiques, and art galleries.
Afternoon: Kauffman Stadium
In the afternoon, catch a Kansas City Royals game at Kauffman Stadium, known for its stunning fountains and great views of the field. If you’re not visiting during baseball season, consider taking a stadium tour to learn about the Royals’ history and get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most beautiful ballparks in the country.
Evening: Dinner at The Rieger
For dinner, try The Rieger, a historic restaurant offering locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine. Located in the Crossroads Arts District, the restaurant’s modern take on classic American dishes makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal before exploring the neighborhood’s vibrant arts scene.
Day 3: Parks, Culture, and Nightlife
Morning: Loose Park
Start your final day with a visit to Loose Park, one of Kansas City’s largest and most beautiful green spaces.
Take a peaceful walk through the Rose Garden, or rent a paddleboat to explore the pond. It’s a great spot to enjoy some morning tranquility before a busy day.
Mid-Morning: Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
Next, visit the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, an architectural masterpiece and home to the Kansas City Symphony, Kansas City Ballet, and Lyric Opera of Kansas City. Take a guided tour of the building to learn about its stunning design, or check out a matinee performance if your visit coincides with a show.
Afternoon: Lunch and the Crossroads Arts District
For lunch, head to Grinders in the Crossroads Arts District, a quirky eatery known for its pizza and cheesesteaks.
Afterward, explore the district’s numerous art galleries, boutiques, and street murals. If you’re visiting on the first Friday of the month, you’re in for a treat—First Fridays is a lively event where galleries, shops, and restaurants stay open late, offering art shows, live music, and food trucks.
Afternoon: National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
For a unique afternoon experience, visit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, home to one of the largest collections of fine-scale miniatures and antique toys in the world. It’s a fun and nostalgic way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re traveling with kids or have a soft spot for childhood memories.
Evening: Drinks at The Green Lady Lounge
End your Kansas City trip with a night of live jazz at The Green Lady Lounge, a beloved spot for music lovers.
The lounge features local musicians playing traditional Kansas City jazz in an intimate, moody setting. Sip on a cocktail, soak in the music, and enjoy the perfect end to your 3-day adventure in Kansas City.
Tips from a Local:
- Pace Yourself with BBQ: Kansas City is known for its BBQ, but with so many great options, it’s easy to overdo it. Space out your BBQ meals and mix in lighter fare to fully enjoy the variety of Kansas City’s dining scene.
- First Fridays: If your trip falls on the first Friday of the month, don’t miss First Fridays in the Crossroads Arts District. It’s the best time to experience Kansas City’s vibrant art scene with live music, food trucks, and open galleries.
- Dress for the Weather: Summers in Kansas City can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly, so pack accordingly. If you’re visiting in the spring or fall, layers are your best bet for staying comfortable throughout the day.
- Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Kansas City offers several free attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Loose Park, and the KC Streetcar. These can help you experience the city on a budget while still seeing some of the top sights.
- Explore Beyond the Plaza: While Country Club Plaza is a major draw, don’t miss out on other cool neighborhoods like Westport and Brookside, where you can find great local shops, eateries, and a more laid-back vibe.