Why Go to Kansas City
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Kansas City pairs genuine Midwestern hospitality with a cooler streak than most people realize. Strangers say hello on the sidewalk, and then you find yourself in the Power & Light District, surrounded by lively bars and restaurants. Come hungry and bring your ears: KC's barbecue and jazz are legendary, and the food and music scenes have grown well beyond both.
The city also rewards the curious. The National WWI Museum and Memorial is one of the most moving museums in the country, and the Nelson-Atkins holds a world-class art collection. History runs deep here, too. KC started as a trading post in 1821 and became a key stop on the Oregon Trail two decades later. You can trace that story at the Museum of Kansas City and step back in time at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm.
A quick tip before you go: Kansas City sits in two states. Most of the attractions visitors want are on the Missouri side, so that's where I'll usually base you. Tell me what you love, whether it's ribs, museums or a night of live jazz, and I'll put together a weekend that hits every one.
BEST FOR
Food lovers, music fans, history enthusiasts and families
BEST MONTHS
April–June and September–October tend to be comfortable for walking; summers can be hot and winters cold.
EXPLORE
The Crossroads Arts District has galleries; the Power & Light District anchors downtown entertainment; the Country Club Plaza has shopping, and 18th & Vine celebrates jazz history.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Kansas City
North America › Midwest › USA › Missouri / Kansas
Jazz heritage, signature barbecue and memorable museums
BBQ
Jazz
Sports
Fountains
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Allow enough time for the National WWI Museum’s galleries before heading to Union Station; both fit well into the same sightseeing day.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Save time for the memorial grounds as well as the museum.
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Major museum and memorial with comprehensive World War I exhibits and city views.
Check museum opening days; the outdoor sculpture area is a separate attraction.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Major art museum known for its collections and outdoor sculpture park.
Check which exhibits require separate tickets.
Union Station Kansas City
Restored landmark railroad station containing exhibitions and family attractions.
Visit the jazz museum and explore the surrounding district.
18th & Vine Jazz District
Historic area celebrating Kansas City jazz and African American cultural history.
Combine with nearby Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
American Jazz Museum
Museum interpreting the city’s jazz heritage in the 18th & Vine district.
A boutique hotel in the Crossroads Arts District, convenient for galleries, restaurants and the downtown streetcar. Check valet parking and event-night traffic before booking.
Crossroads Hotel
Crossroads Arts District
Hotel Tags
An art-focused downtown hotel combining accommodations with contemporary exhibitions. Its location is useful for exploring central Kansas City and nearby dining on foot.
21c Museum Hotel Kansas City
Downtown / Library District
Hotel Tags
An upscale hotel by the Kansas City Convention Center, suitable for business travelers and guests attending downtown events. Confirm parking and skywalk access for your plans.
Loews Kansas City Hotel
Downtown / Convention District
Hotel Tags
A characterful hotel in a historic downtown building, positioned for central dining, theaters and entertainment. Confirm the precise room category and current onsite amenities.
Hotel Kansas City, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Downtown / Power & Light District
Hotel Tags
An upscale hotel near the Country Club Plaza shopping district, offering a quieter alternative to downtown. Plan a vehicle or rideshare for Crossroads and convention-center attractions.
The Fontaine
Country Club Plaza
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Kansas City
High 53°F · Low 35°F · Rain 2.2 in
The Plaza Lighting Ceremony on Thanksgiving night kicks off the holidays.
April–June and September–October tend to be comfortable for walking; summers can be hot and winters cold.
Best Times to Visit Kansas City
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
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Airport transfer
Kansas City International Airport is outside the urban core; plan ground transport in advance.
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Public buses
RideKC buses connect additional districts; verify service and frequency.
04
Rental car
Helpful for suburban sites and travelers with several widely spaced stops.
03
Rideshare and taxi
Useful for Nelson-Atkins, 18th & Vine and other areas beyond a central walking plan.
02
Walking
Crossroads, River Market and portions of downtown are pleasant for short neighborhood walks.
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KC Streetcar
Useful for central downtown and River Market connections; check its current service map.
The KC Streetcar serves central corridors, but many neighborhoods and attractions are spread apart. Combine walking with rideshare or a car for longer distances.
Getting Around Kansas City