What Fun Things To Do Near Me In Kansas City MO

What Fun Things To Do Near Me In Kansas City MO

Kansas City Royals

The vibrant city of Kansas City, Missouri, offers an array of attractions that cater to varied preferences. The city’s rich cultural heritage can be seen in its impressive cultural sites, historic landmarks, and entertainment spots.

The 18th and Vine District, a hub for jazz history, features the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a museum preserving an important era. Meanwhile, the River Market District provides a lively atmosphere, with its farmers' market and distinctive shops.

Those who love the arts can enjoy performances at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which presents a wide range of musical and theatrical events. Sports fans will enjoy games at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or experience Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs play.

For food lovers, the city’s famous Kansas City–style barbecue offers a delightful culinary experience, with a variety of spots serving this signature dish.

Outdoor visitors may explore Swope Park, which features ample green spaces for recreation. Meanwhile, shoppers may visit the Country Club Plaza, known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and a wide mix of dining and retail choices.

Whether your interests revolve around history, music, sports, or food, Kansas City provides a multitude of attractions to enjoy.

Popular businesses in Kansas City Include:

Elite Aesthetics

KC Foot Care

Omnientertainment

Pete's Pest Control

Optimal Health and Wellness, LLC

Revere Plumbing

Elevated Ledger Kansas City

Your Laundry Assistant

Things To Do When Bored In Kansas City MO

The lively city of Kansas City, Missouri, is celebrated for its vibrant cultural tapestry and storied significance, drawing in visitors from around the world. Nicknamed the "City of Fountains," Kansas City is home to historic sites and a dynamic arts scene.

One of the city’s essential areas is the 18th and Vine District, famous for its important contributions to jazz music. This heritage-rich district also houses the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a renowned museum highlighting the history of African-American baseball. The River Market District, meanwhile, provides a bustling atmosphere with its bustling farmers' market and unique shops that cater to a variety of tastes.

For lovers of the arts, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts stands as a beacon of creativity, showcasing world-class performances in musical arts and theater. Sports fans are sure to appreciate the excitement at Kauffman Stadium, home to the Kansas City Royals, or at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs delight fans.

Kansas City is also famed for its barbecue, a culinary tradition with international acclaim. Restaurants all over the city serve delectable Kansas City–style barbecue, delivering smoky, flavorful dishes that highlight the city's gastronomic heritage. For outdoor recreation, Swope Park offers large green spaces suitable for relaxation and family activities. The Country Club Plaza provides a unforgettable shopping experience with its architecturally stunning architecture and wide retail and dining options.

Whether learning about its heritage, indulging in the arts, or tasting renowned dishes, Kansas City, Missouri, offers an unmatched experience for visitors.

What's Happening In Kansas City

During Prohibition (1920–1933), Kansas City played a significant role as a hotspot for illegal activities, jazz, and nightlife, thriving as an "open city" where the enforcement of Prohibition laws was notoriously lax. This era shaped the city’s cultural and musical identity, particularly its connection to jazz.

Key Roles and Characteristics of Kansas City During Prohibition

1. "Wide Open" under Tom Pendergast

  • Tom Pendergast, the influential political boss, controlled much of Kansas City’s government and police force during this time.
  • Under Pendergast’s leadership, the city largely ignored Prohibition laws, allowing speakeasies, gambling halls, and other illicit establishments to operate openly.
  • This "wide-open" policy made Kansas City a destination for people seeking alcohol and entertainment.

2. A Hub for Speakeasies and Nightlife

  • Speakeasies flourished throughout the city, particularly in areas like the 18th & Vine Jazz District and downtown Kansas City.
  • Venues like the Reno Club became infamous for their live music, dancing, and flowing alcohol, attracting crowds despite Prohibition.
  • The city gained a reputation as a haven for vice, where liquor was easily accessible, and authorities turned a blind eye.

3. Birthplace of Kansas City Jazz

  • The relaxed atmosphere during Prohibition fostered a vibrant nightlife that gave rise to Kansas City jazz, a distinctive style known for its bluesy, riff-driven sound and improvisation.
  • Musicians like Count Basie, Bennie Moten, and Charlie Parker emerged from this era, performing in clubs fueled by the city’s thriving underground economy.
  • Kansas City became a major stop on the jazz circuit, rivaling cities like Chicago and New Orleans.

4. Organized Crime and Bootlegging

  • Kansas City was a key distribution point for bootlegged liquor, facilitated by its central location and strong railroad network.
  • Organized crime flourished, with gangs controlling the smuggling and distribution of alcohol.
  • The city’s criminal underworld and political corruption were intertwined, creating an environment where illegal activities thrived.

5. Economic Growth and Cultural Impact

  • Despite the illegal nature of its activities, the Prohibition era brought economic growth to Kansas City, as nightlife and entertainment drew visitors from across the country.
  • The city’s reputation as a cultural hub grew, with jazz music becoming a defining feature of its identity.

Legacy of Prohibition in Kansas City

  • The 18th & Vine Jazz District remains a symbol of this era, showcasing the city’s rich musical heritage.
  • Kansas City’s role as a center for jazz and nightlife during Prohibition left a lasting mark on its culture, influencing music, entertainment, and tourism.
  • The city’s lax enforcement of Prohibition laws contributed to its reputation as a rebellious and culturally vibrant destination.

Kansas City’s role during Prohibition is a fascinating chapter in its history, blending vice, politics, and culture to create an enduring legacy. Let me know if you’d like more details about this era or its influence on the city today!

What's Happening In Kansas City
The 10 Best Things To Do In Kansas City

The 10 Best Things To Do 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.


    • Clay County

    1. Country Club Plaza
    2. 18th and Vine District
    3. Jackson County

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.

Kansas City 2022 Top Things To Do

Kansas City offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that entertain and educate visitors of all ages. Here are the top destinations to explore with kids:

1. Kansas City Zoo

  • Location: Swope Park.
  • Highlights: Over 1,700 animals across 200 acres, featuring African Sky Safari, polar bears, and penguins.
  • Why Kids Love It: Interactive exhibits, animal feedings, and a chance to ride the train or carousel.

2. Science City at Union Station

  • Location: Downtown Kansas City.
  • Highlights: Hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and an interactive Maker Studio.
  • Why Kids Love It: The Dino Lab, Sky Bike, and the Test Kitchen offer immersive learning and fun.

3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center

  • Location: Crown Center.
  • Highlights: LEGO-themed rides, a 4D cinema, and Miniland Kansas City built entirely from LEGO bricks.
  • Why Kids Love It: Building and racing their own LEGO creations.

4. SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium

  • Location: Crown Center.
  • Highlights: More than 5,000 sea creatures, touch pools, and a walk-through underwater tunnel.
  • Why Kids Love It: Interactive touch tanks and the shark and stingray exhibits.

5. Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

  • Location: Overland Park, Kansas.
  • Highlights: A 12-acre farm with animals, pony rides, fishing, and wagon rides.
  • Why Kids Love It: Hands-on activities like bottle-feeding baby goats and petting farm animals.

6. Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun

  • Location: North Kansas City.
  • Highlights: A combined amusement and water park with rides, slides, and live entertainment.
  • Why Kids Love It: Camp Snoopy for younger kids and thrilling coasters for older children.

7. Crown Center

  • Location: Downtown Kansas City.
  • Highlights: Shops, restaurants, and attractions like Kaleidoscope and The Coterie Theatre.
  • Why Kids Love It: Kaleidoscope offers free creative workshops, and the seasonal Ice Terrace is perfect for winter fun.

8. Powell Gardens

  • Location: 30 miles east of Kansas City.
  • Highlights: Lush gardens with seasonal family activities like the Festival of Butterflies.
  • Why Kids Love It: The Children’s Garden features hands-on gardening activities and a giant treehouse.

9. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

  • Location: Near UMKC.
  • Highlights: A vast collection of vintage toys and intricately detailed miniatures.
  • Why Kids Love It: Nostalgic toys and the chance to see dolls, trains, and action figures from different eras.

10. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

  • Location: Midtown Kansas City.
  • Highlights: Free admission and the expansive Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park.
  • Why Kids Love It: Playing near the giant shuttlecocks and exploring kid-friendly art programs.

11. Penguin Park

  • Location: Northland area.
  • Highlights: A whimsical playground featuring giant animal sculptures like a penguin, kangaroo, and giraffe.
  • Why Kids Love It: Unique play structures and a family picnic area.

12. Union Station

  • Location: Downtown Kansas City.
  • Highlights: Historic architecture with attractions like Science City, the Model Train Gallery, and traveling exhibits.
  • Why Kids Love It: Watching the intricate model trains and exploring interactive exhibits.

13. The Kansas City Public Library

  • Location: Downtown Kansas City.
  • Highlights: The Central Library’s giant "Community Bookshelf" facade and rooftop terrace.
  • Why Kids Love It: Storytime sessions and the children’s reading area.

14. Lakes and Trails

  • Lake Jacomo: Offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and nature trails.
  • Loose Park: Features a playground, pond, and rose garden for family picnics.

15. Starlight Theatre

  • Location: Swope Park.
  • Highlights: Outdoor performances, including kid-friendly musicals and concerts.
  • Why Kids Love It: Magical live shows under the stars.

What To Do And See In Kansas City

Kansas City 2022 Top Things To Do
Fun Things To Do When You Are Bored In Kansas City MO
Fun Things To Do When You Are Bored In Kansas City MO

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is a premier destination that combines wildlife and marine experiences in one expansive setting. Located in Swope Park, this attraction provides fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

Zoo Highlights

  • Over 1,700 Animals: Spanning 200 acres, the zoo is home to animals from all over the world.
  • African Sky Safari: Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the African savanna by riding the open-air gondola.
  • Polar Bear Passage: Observe polar bears in a state-of-the-art habitat with underwater viewing.
  • Tiger Trail: Watch these majestic big cats up close in their lush environment.
  • Australia Adventure: Stroll among kangaroos and view koalas in their naturalistic exhibits.

Aquarium Highlights (New in 2023):

  • Aquatic Wonders: A 600,000-gallon state-of-the-art aquarium featuring over 30 exhibits.
  • Diverse Marine Life: See vibrant coral reefs, jellyfish, stingrays, and sharks.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Learn about ocean ecosystems and conservation efforts through engaging displays.

Why Visit?

  • Perfect for families, animal lovers, and marine enthusiasts.
  • Offers interactive experiences like feeding giraffes, riding the carousel, and participating in special keeper talks.
  • Combines land and sea exhibits, making it a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Tips for Visitors

  1. Plan Ahead: The zoo is large—wear comfortable shoes and consider using the tram to navigate.
  2. Check the Schedule: Don’t miss animal feedings and zookeeper chats.
  3. Buy Combo Tickets: Save by bundling zoo and aquarium access in one ticket.

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is an excellent way to spend the day immersed in nature and marine life, creating lasting memories for the whole family!



Lee's Summit

  1. Country Club Plaza
  2. 18th and Vine District
  3. Jackson County

Best Tourist Attractions In Kansas City

Related Searches Include:

  • Is Kansas City Missouri worth visiting
  • What is Kansas City MO best known for


    • Kansas City Royals

    1. Kansas City Royals
    2. Clay County
    3. Lee's Summit
  • Does Kansas City have nightlife
  • What is the most visited place in Kansas
  • What can kids do in Kansas City for free
  • Is Kansas City worth visiting
  • What is special about Kansas City
  • Is Kansas City a good place to live
  • What is the coolest thing in Kansas
  • Is there anything to see in KCMO
  • What is there to do in Kansas City in February

  • Explore historical records and archives at the National Archives in Kansas City. Source
  • Access resources for small businesses in Kansas City through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Source
  • Learn about the FBI's presence and services in Kansas City. Source
  • Discover the natural beauty and conservation efforts in the Kansas City region with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Source
  • Find comprehensive healthcare services for veterans at the VA Kansas City Health Care system. Source

Best Tourist Attractions In Kansas City

Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City boasts a vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by its jazz heritage, numerous art galleries, live theater, and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

Kansas City is renowned for its distinctive style of barbecue, jazz heritage, and its fountains. The city often surprises visitors with its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions.

Kansas City has a thriving music scene, particularly known for its contributions to jazz. The city has numerous jazz clubs, and the annual Kansas City Jazz Festival is a major event. There's also a growing indie music scene in the city.