Fun Things To Do With Kids Near Me In Kansas City Mo

18th and Vine District

Kansas City, Missouri, offers a variety of activities that cater to different preferences. The city’s extensive cultural heritage can be seen in its renowned museums, historic venues, and entertainment options.

The 18th and Vine District, a historic jazz district, features the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a museum preserving an important era. Meanwhile, the River Market District provides a bustling environment, with its farmers' market and distinctive shops.

Those who love the arts will appreciate performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which features a variety of musical and theatrical events. Sports fans will enjoy games at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or visit Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs take the field.

For food lovers, the city’s renowned Kansas City–style barbecue offers a delightful culinary experience, with numerous restaurants serving this distinctive dish.

Outdoor visitors will enjoy Swope Park, which provides ample green spaces for relaxation. Meanwhile, shoppers may visit the Country Club Plaza, famous for its Spanish-inspired architecture and a diverse mix of dining and retail options.

Whether your interests are focused on history, music, sports, or food, Kansas City has something for everyone.

Popular businesses in Kansas City Include:

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18th and Vine District
Liberty
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Things To Do When Bored In Kansas City MO

The lively city of Kansas City, Missouri, is known for its vivid cultural tapestry and historical significance, attracting visitors from all walks of life. Called the "City of Fountains," Kansas City is home to remarkable attractions and a thriving arts scene.

One of the city’s essential areas is the 18th and Vine District, celebrated for its profound contributions to jazz music. This heritage-rich district also houses the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a significant cultural institution documenting the history of African-American baseball. The River Market District, on the other hand, offers a vibrant atmosphere with its popular farmers' market and unique shops that offer items for a variety of tastes.

For lovers of the arts, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts stands as a beacon of creativity, featuring renowned performances in classical music and theater. Sports fans can enjoy the excitement at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs delight fans.

Kansas City is widely recognized for its barbecue, a culinary tradition with international acclaim.

Platte County

Restaurants throughout the city present mouthwatering Kansas City–style barbecue, serving up smoky, flavorful dishes that reflect the city's gastronomic heritage. For outdoor recreation, Swope Park offers extensive green spaces perfect for relaxation and family activities. The Country Club Plaza offers a unforgettable shopping experience with its Mediterranean-style architecture and diverse retail and dining options.

Whether learning about its heritage, enjoying cultural activities, or tasting renowned dishes, Kansas City, Missouri, provides an unmatched experience for visitors.

The 10 Best Things To Do In Kansas City

Kansas City offers a diverse range of entertainment options, from music and theater to sports and nightlife. Here are some highlights:

Music and Live Performances

T-Mobile Center: Hosts major concerts, sports events, and shows. It's a go-to spot for big-name entertainers.
Starlight Theatre: An outdoor theater that brings Broadway to Kansas City with its summer productions.
The Blue Room Jazz Club: Located next to the American Jazz Museum, it's a venue for live jazz music, embodying the city's rich jazz heritage.
The Bird Comedy Theater: Known for its comedy shows, including improv and stand-up.

Theater and Arts

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: A stunning venue for opera, ballet, symphony, and more. It's one of the most architecturally beautiful buildings in KC.
KC Repertory Theatre: Offers a mix of plays from classics to new works.
The Coterie Theatre: Focuses on theater for young audiences but has productions that appeal to all ages.

Sports Entertainment

Kauffman Stadium: Home to the Kansas City Royals, offering baseball games with a unique fountain show.
Arrowhead Stadium: Experience the energy of a Kansas City Chiefs NFL game or other major events like concerts.
Sporting KC: Watch soccer at Children's Mercy Park, where the atmosphere is electric during matches.

Nightlife and Bars

Power & Light District: A vibrant area with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, perfect for nightlife.
Westport: Known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and live music spots, offering a more local vibe.
39th Street: Famous for dive bars, unique shops, and a bohemian atmosphere.

Unique Entertainment Experiences

Union Station: Beyond its historical significance, it's home to Science City, a planetarium, and often hosts special exhibitions and events.
Worlds of Fun: An amusement park with roller coasters, water attractions at Oceans of Fun, and seasonal events like Halloween Haunt.
Escape Rooms: Breakout KC offers themed escape room experiences for those looking for interactive fun.

Festivals and Events

Boulevardia: A music and craft beer festival by Boulevard Brewing Company, showcasing local and national acts.
First Fridays: An art crawl in the Crossroads Arts District with galleries, street performances, and food trucks.
Kansas City Irish Fest: One of the largest Irish festivals in the U.S., celebrating Irish culture with music, dance, and food.

Cinematic Experiences

Screenland Armour & Crossroads: Independent theaters known for showing both blockbuster and indie films, with special events like movie marathons.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: Offers an elevated movie-going experience with food service at your seat and a no-texting policy.

Kansas City's entertainment scene is vibrant and varied, catering to all tastes from high culture to family fun, and from local haunts to international acts. Whether you're there for the music, the arts, sports, or just to enjoy the nightlife, KC has something for everyone.

Best Tourist Attractions In Kansas City

Kansas City is a sports-loving city with a passionate fan base and a variety of must-see events throughout the year. Here are some of the top sporting experiences you shouldn't miss:

1. Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

Where: Arrowhead Stadium, one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL.
Why Go: The Chiefs are perennial contenders, and the electric atmosphere, tailgating culture, and passionate fans make game day unforgettable.
Must-See: Key rivalries like games against the Denver Broncos or Las Vegas Raiders.

2. Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

Where: Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.
Why Go: Known for their dedicated fan base and family-friendly environment, Sporting KC matches provide an exciting soccer experience.
Must-See: The “Blue Hell” section, where die-hard fans cheer nonstop.

3. Kansas City Royals (MLB)

Where: Kauffman Stadium (The K).
Why Go: Royals games offer a relaxed baseball experience with unique features like the Outfield Experience and iconic fountains.
Must-See: Fireworks Fridays or games against division rivals like the St. Louis Cardinals.

4. Kansas Speedway Events

Where: Kansas Speedway, in Kansas City, Kansas.
Why Go: NASCAR fans can enjoy thrilling races, including the Hollywood Casino 400 and other weekend events.
Must-See: The infield camping experience for a close-up view of the action.

5. Big 12 Basketball Tournament

Where: T-Mobile Center, downtown Kansas City.
Why Go: This annual collegiate basketball tournament features top teams and draws energetic fans from around the region.
Must-See: Championship games and the electric fan zone outside the arena.

6. Kansas City Current (NWSL)

Where: Children’s Mercy Park (future games at the team’s dedicated stadium under construction).
Why Go: Women’s professional soccer in KC is growing, and the Current offers high-energy matches with world-class players.
Must-See: Matches against rivals like Portland Thorns FC.

7. College Football

Teams: Local universities like the Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas State Wildcats, and Missouri Tigers have passionate fanbases.
Why Go: Exciting regional rivalries and an electric game-day atmosphere.
Must-See: The Sunflower Showdown (Kansas vs. Kansas State).

8. College Basketball

Teams: Kansas Jayhawks (University of Kansas) and Kansas State Wildcats.
Why Go: KU basketball is legendary, with a storied history and games at Allen Fieldhouse being a bucket-list experience.
Must-See: The Border War game against Missouri.

9. Other Sporting Events

KC Mavericks (Hockey): ECHL games at the Cable Dahmer Arena for an affordable and action-packed hockey experience.
KC Monarchs (Baseball): Independent league baseball games at Legends Field for a relaxed, family-friendly outing.

Special Sporting Events

NFL Draft: Kansas City recently hosted the NFL Draft, showcasing its love for football.
World Cup 2026: Kansas City is set to host matches for the FIFA World Cup, promising a historic event for soccer fans.

Kansas City’s sports scene is diverse and vibrant, offering something for every fan. From NFL showdowns to thrilling NASCAR races, attending a live sporting event in KC is a must! Let me know if you'd like help planning your trip to a game or event.

What's Happening In Kansas City

Kansas City boasts numerous family-friendly parks perfect for outdoor adventures, picnics, and playtime. Here are some of the top picks:

1. Loose Park

Location: Midtown Kansas City.
Highlights: A 75-acre park with a large pond, walking trails, and the iconic Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden.
Why Families Love It: Kids enjoy open spaces to run and play, while parents can relax in the scenic surroundings.

2. Swope Park

Location: South Kansas City.
Highlights: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and access to the Kansas City Zoo and Starlight Theatre.
Why Families Love It: Offers activities for all ages, including hiking trails, fishing, and golf courses.

3. Penguin Park

Location: Northland area.
Highlights: A whimsical playground with giant animal sculptures, including a penguin, kangaroo, and giraffe.
Why Families Love It: Unique play structures and shaded picnic areas make it ideal for kids.

4. Jacob L. Loose Park Playground

Location: Inside Loose Park.

18th and Vine District

Platte County
Platte County
Platte County

Highlights: A large, colorful playground with slides, climbing structures, and swings.
Why Families Love It: Safe and spacious for kids to play while parents enjoy nearby walking trails.

5. Shawnee Mission Park

Location: Shawnee, Kansas (short drive from KC).
Highlights: A 1,600-acre park with a lake, trails, picnic areas, and an off-leash dog park.
Why Families Love It: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and a large playground provide endless family fun.

6. Antioch Park

Location: Merriam, Kansas.
Highlights: Features the "Dodge Town" play area, two fishing lakes, and picnic shelters.
Why Families Love It: The imaginative play structures and serene lake views make it a favorite for families.

7. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center

Location: Blue Springs, Missouri.
Highlights: A conservation area with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs.
Why Families Love It: Kids can learn about nature while exploring the trails and interactive exhibits.

8. Ernie Miller Nature Center

Location: Olathe, Kansas.
Highlights: Nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and seasonal family programs.
Why Families Love It: A great spot for hiking and connecting with nature while educating kids about local wildlife.

9. Waterfall Park

Location: Independence, Missouri.
Highlights: A picturesque park with walking trails, playgrounds, and a serene waterfall.
Why Families Love It: Beautiful scenery and play areas for kids make it perfect for a family outing.

10. English Landing Park

Location: Parkville, Missouri.
Highlights: Located along the Missouri River, this park features trails, a playground, and scenic picnic spots.
Why Families Love It: The river views, spacious play areas, and nearby shops in downtown Parkville create a memorable experience.

11. Macken Park

Location: North Kansas City.
Highlights: Sports fields, playgrounds, and paved walking trails.
Why Families Love It: A great spot for active families to enjoy soccer, baseball, or a leisurely stroll.

12. Mill Creek Park

Location: Country Club Plaza area.
Highlights: A central fountain, walking paths, and open green spaces.
Why Families Love It: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon near the iconic J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain.

13. Longview Lake Park

Location: Southeast Kansas City.
Highlights: A lake offering boating, fishing, and trails, along with playgrounds and picnic areas.
Why Families Love It: Water activities and expansive spaces for outdoor fun.

Things To Do When You're Bored With Friends In Kansas City MO

Kansas City offers a vibrant entertainment scene with options for everyone. Here are some highlights:

Live Music and Performances

Kansas City Jazz District: Visit the 18th & Vine Historic District for live jazz at The Blue Room or the American Jazz Museum.
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: Home to the Kansas City Symphony, Kansas City Ballet, and Lyric Opera.
Knuckleheads Saloon: A unique live music venue featuring blues, rock, and country performances.

Sports and Gaming

Arrowhead Stadium: Catch a Kansas City Chiefs game.
Kauffman Stadium: Watch the Kansas City Royals in action.
Kansas Speedway: Experience NASCAR and other racing events.
Power & Light District: Features bars, restaurants, and live music, great for game-day gatherings.

Theater and Arts

Starlight Theatre: An iconic outdoor theater hosting Broadway shows and concerts.
Folly Theater: A historic venue for classical music, jazz, and special performances.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Free admission and an impressive collection of art from around the world.

Family-Friendly Fun

Kansas City Zoo: Explore wildlife exhibits and animal encounters.
Legoland Discovery Center: Great for kids with interactive LEGO-themed attractions.
Science City at Union Station: Hands-on exhibits for curious minds.

Nightlife

Westport: A trendy area with bars, live music, and dance clubs.
Crossroads Arts District: Known for its First Fridays art walk, unique bars, and food trucks.

Food and Drink

BBQ Scene: Sample Kansas City’s legendary barbecue at spots like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Q39, or Arthur Bryant's.
Craft Breweries: Boulevard Brewing Co. offers tours and tastings.
Speakeasies: Check out hidden bars like The Green Lady Lounge for cocktails and jazz.

Festivals and Events

Boulevardia Festival: Celebrating craft beer, music, and food.
Kansas City Renaissance Festival: A seasonal event full of entertainment, crafts, and themed activities.

Kansas City’s mix of music, art, sports, and food ensures a memorable experience for all tastes. Let me know if you'd like more specific recommendations!

Kansas City 2022 Top Things To Do

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Guide To Living In Kansas City MO

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some historical facts about Kansas City?

Kansas City has a rich history, including being a starting point for the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails, a major hub for jazz music in the 1920s and 1930s, and playing a significant role in the Civil War.

Can you recommend some local Kansas City cuisine or specialties?

Apart from its famous barbecue, Kansas City is known for its steak, craft breweries, and a growing farm-to-table movement. Don't miss trying the Kansas City Strip Steak and local craft beers.

What are some popular day trips from Kansas City?

Popular day trips from Kansas City include visiting the historic town of Weston, exploring the wine country in nearby Missouri towns, and enjoying outdoor activities at Perry Lake or the Flint Hills.