Isn’t it funny how we visit other cities and use all types of resources to figure out the best things to do there, but when it comes to our own city, we often take a backseat to adventure. We fall into our routines and forget to explore the many treasures we have to offer.
Here are a few of my favorite touristy things to do in Kansas City. Check them out and then comment with your favorites!
National WWI Museum and Memorial
- What: A museum and memorial dedicated to the Great War
- When: Fundraising began in 1919 and in 1921 the supreme Allied commanders dedicated the site
- Why: It is a world-class museum that honors those who served in World War I
- Where: 100 W. 26th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
KC Streetcar
- What: A 2.2-mile-long route that cuts through Kansas City’s downtown area
- When: KC voters approved it in 2012, construction began in 2014, and it opened in 2016
- Why: It’s free, fun, and a great way to get around
- Where: Between the River Market and Union Station
- Bonus: Read more about why I love the Streetcar here
The Scout
- What: A statue of a Sioux scout on horseback looking out on the city
- When: Dedicated in 1922 as a memorial to local Indian tribes
- Why: It provides a beautiful view of KC and pays tribute to those who were here first
- Where: Penn Valley Park (more about that and other parks here)
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- What: A world-class art museum with a beautiful sculpture park
- When: The William Rockhill Nelson Gallery of Art and the Mary Atkins Museum of Fine Arts opened in December of 1933
- Why: The many opportunities to enjoy, appreciate and understand visual arts and the cultures they represent
- Where: 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111
Union Station Kansas City
- What: Originally used as a train station that saw hundreds of thousands of passengers each year
- When: Built in 1914
- Why: Union Station is rich in history and features a wide variety of things to explore, eat, and learn
- Where: 30 W. Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
- What: A breathtaking performing arts center that is home to the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera, Kansas City Symphony, and more
- When: Muriel McBrien Kauffman, civic leader and philanthropist, began with a vision in 1994
- Why: The center is an architectural masterpiece and features amazing performances
- Where: 1601 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
- What: A museum that preserves the rich history of African-American baseball
- When: Founded in 1990 and moved to their permanent home in 1997
- Why: Experience photographs, artifacts, and more dating from the late 1800s through the 1960s
- Where: 1616 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
The Arabia Steamboat Museum
- What: The Steamboat Arabia sank with 200 tons of treasure and those recovered artifacts are on display here
- When: The Steamboat sank near KC in 1856, she was recovered in 1988 and the museum opened in 1991
- Why: See local history and get a better understanding of life in the 1850s
- Where: 400 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64106