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Things to Do in Kansas City

Things to Do in Kansas City

Kansas City Missouri, USA Travel Guide

Explore the Outdoors

Kansas City's parks and nearby natural areas present ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and recreation.

Hiking & Water Sports

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Riverfront Heritage Trail (15+ miles, multi-use, scenic views). Lakeside Nature Center Trails (Swope Park, shorter, easy to moderate, wooded areas). Trolley Track Trail (6-mile paved, popular for walking/cycling).

Water Sports & Activities

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are popular on nearby lakes like Theke Jacomo and Smithville Lake. Rental facilities for boats and equipment are available in warmer months.

Missouri River Tours

Guided use a kayak or paddleboard tours on sections of the Missouri River are occasionally available. Always put safety first and use reputable tour operators.

Adventure & Wildlife

  • Ziplining & Ropes Courses: Find these at amusement parks outside immediate city limits, like nearby state parks or recreation areas.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails for mountain biking are available at Shawnee Mission Park (KS) and some sections of Swope Park.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Kansas City Zoo (Swope Park) has diverse animals. Lakeside Nature Center (Swope Park) features exhibits on area wildlife.
  • Bicycle Trails: Riverfront Heritage Trail and Trolley Track Trail are perfect for scenic bike rides. Dedicated bike lanes are expanding.

Weather Wise

  • Always carry water, particularly in the warmer months.
  • Stay hydrated to fully enjoy your outdoor adventures.
  • Check weather forecasts before heading out.
  • Dress in layers for comfort throughout the day.

Park Highlights

  • Loose Park: Perfect for leisurely strolls.
  • Swope Park: Provides comprehensive green space.
  • Kauffman Memorial Garden: Serene botanical garden.
  • Enjoy picnics in scenic park settings.

Lake Activities

  • Lake Jacomo and Smithville Lake.
  • Popular for boating and fishing.
  • Swimming beaches are open during summer.
  • Rental facilities for equipment are available.

Safety Alert: River Activities

The Missouri River, while impressive, is not suitable for casual swimming. Always prioritize safety and use reputable tour operators for any river-based recreation.

Dive into Culture

Kansas City has a range of immersive cultural experiences that deepen your appreciation for its heritage.

Workshops & Classes

  • Art & Craft Workshops: Various studios, community centers, and galleries in Crossroads Arts District offer workshops in painting, pottery, jewelry making.
  • Cooking Classes: The Culinary Center of Kansas City (Overland Park, KS) has a wide array, including regional American cuisine, international dishes, and barbecue techniques.
  • Music & Dance: Introductory dance classes or music workshops might be available from local schools or community groups.
  • Language Learning: While not a main visitor activity, Kansas City has language schools. Translation apps address language barriers for travelers.

Cultural Performances

Jazz Clubs

Green Lady Lounge, The Blue Room (18th & Vine), Phoenix Jazz Club provide genuine live jazz nightly. Experiencing live jazz is an important part of a City Of fountains visit.

Performing Arts Centers

Kauffman Center for the Theater And dance hosts world-class performances by the Kansas City Symphony, Lyric Opera, and Ballet. Starlight Theatre (Swope Park) has Broadway shows and concerts.

Theater & Other Venues

Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Unicorn Theatre, and various smaller venues provide a variety of dramatic and experimental performances.

Community Tourism

Local non-profit organizations in the 18th & Vine Jazz District offer guided tours focused on the area's rich history and jazz legacy.

Ethnic Enrichment Fest

August: Celebrates Kansas City's varied cultures with cuisine, music, dance, and crafts from all over the world.

Other Festivals

Kansas City Irish Fest (September), Fiesta City Of fountains (June), and Plaza Art Fair (September) present major annual events.

Rest and Recharge

Kc has various options for relaxation and personal well-being, helping you unwind during your trip.

Spa & Wellness

  • Health AND Wellness Centers: Numerous day spas and wellness centers operate throughout Kansas City.
  • Upscale Options: A concentration of upscale spas, often within luxury hotels or as independent establishments, is present in the Country Club Plaza area.
  • Services: Services like massages, facials, and physical treatments are widely available. Research specific spas for their service food lists and booking options.
  • Booking: Book spa treatments in advance, especially on weekends, to see if it's available. Find hotels with spa facilities on Booking.com.

Yoga & Pools

Yoga & Meditation

Various yoga studios exist throughout the city, many offering drop-in classes. Some studios might host occasional weekend workshops. Look for efficiency apartments in Westport, Midtown, or Crossroads.

Hot Springs & Natural Therapy

Kansas City does not feature natural hot springs or similar natural therapy options. The region's geology does not support them.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Numerous hotels have indoor or outdoor swimming pools. Public aquatic centers offer swimming facilities. Nearby lakes (Lake Jacomo, Smithville Lake) feature beaches for swimming during summer.

Traditional Healing Practices

No Prominent Tourist Offering

Traditional healing practices are not a prominent tourist offering in City Of fountains.

Wellness Community

However, you might find practitioners of acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy within the city's wellness community if you seek specific treatments.

Specialized Treatments

For specialized treatments, research local practitioners and their offerings.

Kansas City After Dark

Kansas City comes alive after dark, presenting a diverse range of after-dark activities options, from soulful jazz to energetic dance clubs. Explore nightlife tours on GetYourGuide.

Live Music Venues

  • Jazz Clubs: Green Lady Lounge (Crossroads, live music nightly, no cover), The Blue Room (18th & Vine, authentic jazz), Phoenix Jazz Club (downtown, jazz and blues, full menu).
  • Concert Arenas: T-Mobile Center (key national/international acts), The Midland Theatre & Arvest Bank Theatre (historic, ornate, concerts, comedy), Folly Theater (varied schedule).
  • Outdoor Shows: Starlight Theatre (outdoor amphitheater, large-scale concerts during warmer months).
  • Intimate Venues: The RecordBar and Knuckleheads Saloon (blues and roots music) offer more intimate settings.

Theater & Nightclubs

Theater & Performance Spaces

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts (world-class opera, ballet, symphony). Kansas City Repertory Theatre (classic and contemporary plays). Unicorn Theatre (contemporary productions). Quality Hill Playhouse (cabaret-style musicals).

Nightclubs & Dancing

Power & Light District: Numerous clubs and bars with dance floors, playing popular music. A lively area, especially on weekends.

Westport Nightlife

Offers a diverse range of bars, many with dance floors, catering to different musical tastes and crowds.

Power & Light District

A high-density area with many bars, which makes it simple to hop between venues. Expect a lively atmosphere.

Westport District

A historic neighborhood with a bohemian vibe, including a wide array of bars, from dive bars to craft cocktail lounges.

Crossroads Arts District

Offers a growing number of breweries, distilleries, and unique cocktail bars, often with a more relaxed and artistic atmosphere.

Late-Night Entertainment

Extended Hours
  • Bars and nightspots in the Power & Light District and Westport typically stay open until 1:30 AM or later on weekends.
  • This gives ample late-night entertainment opportunities.
  • Some diners and casual eateries also remain open late for post-bar snacks.
Authentic Experience
  • For an authentic Kansas City experience, spend an evening at a jazz club.
  • The Green Lady Lounge is an area favorite, offering a classic, intimate setting.
  • Check schedules for jazz clubs in the 18th & Vine district for a powerful cultural immersion.

Nightlife Summary

Kansas City's nightlife has diverse options from world-class jazz to lively dance clubs and unique bar districts. Plan your evenings to experience the city's cultural pulse after dark.

Shop Local & Unique

City Of fountains has diverse shopping experiences, from lively traditional markets to upscale boutiques and artisan workshops.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • City Market: Historic market in River Market, operates year-round. Features farmers market (seasonal) and numerous permanent vendors selling fresh produce, international foods, spices, and local goods.
  • West Bottoms First Weekends: On the first weekend of each month, the historic West Bottoms district turns into a massive antique, vintage, and artisan market. Old warehouses open, filled with unique finds.
  • Artisan Workshops & Crafts: Crossroads Arts District is a hub for independent boutiques, art galleries, and artisan workshops. Find unique handmade jewelry, clothing, pottery, and other crafts.
  • Artist Studios: Many artists have studios in the Crossroads, offering a chance to see them at work. More than just antiques, many artisans have set up shop in West Bottoms, notably during the First Weekends events.

Souvenir & Boutique Shopping

BBQ Sauces & Rubs

Take home a taste of Kc with local barbecue sauces and dry rubs from famous joints or specialty stores.

Local Craft Beer

Pick up a selection of beers from Boulevard Brewing Company or other local craft breweries.

Kansas City-Themed Apparel

Find t-shirts, hats, and other gear with local sports teams (Chiefs, Royals) or city landmarks. Look for jazz-themed art, music, or books in the 18th & Vine district.

Luxury & Boutique

  • Country Club Plaza: Upscale district, high-end brands, luxury boutiques, local specialty shops.
  • Elegant outdoor shopping experience.
  • Crown Center Shops: Variety of shops, national retailers to local boutiques, connected by covered walkways.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support Local Businesses: Prioritize shopping at area boutiques, artisan markets, and independent stores.
  • Directly supports the local economy and creative community.
  • Fair Trade: While not a main focus, some specialty shops might carry fair-trade goods.
  • Inquire about the sourcing of products.

Shipping & Customs

  • Standard U.S. Shipping regulations apply.
  • If purchasing large items, many stores can aid in shipping arrangements.
  • International travelers: Be aware of your home country's customs regulations and duty limits.
  • Keep receipts for all purchases.

Shopping Tips

West Bottoms Timing
  • If you plan to shop for antiques or unique crafts, time your visit for the first weekend of the month.
  • This allows you to experience the West Bottoms First Weekends market.
  • It has a truly local and unique experience.
Art & Jazz District Souvenirs
  • Purchase unique pieces from Crossroads galleries or West Bottoms artisans.
  • Look for jazz-themed art, music, or books in the 18th & Vine district to remember your trip.
  • Think about things that reflect Kansas City's rich cultural history.

Shopping Overview

Kansas City's shopping scene combines historic markets with modern boutiques, offering everything from local artisanal goods to luxury goods. Support local businesses and explore unique finds for memorable souvenirs.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Explorations

  • Explore extensive hiking and cycling trails in city parks and nearby natural areas.
  • Enjoy water-based sports like kayaking and paddleboarding on local lakes.
  • Observe diverse wildlife at the Kansas City Zoo and Lakeside Nature Center.
  • Remember to stay hydrated and plan according to weather conditions for outdoor comfort.

Cultural & Leisure Pursuits

  • Immerse yourself in Kansas City's rich jazz heritage at local clubs.
  • Participate in art and craft workshops or cooking classes for hands-on learning.
  • Find relaxing at various spas, wellness centers, or hotel pools.
  • Explore diverse shopping options, from antique markets to upscale boutiques.
Things to Do in Kansas City. Activities, Experiences, Adventures