Kansas City, Missouri: 10 Unmissable Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Kansas City, Missouri (Jackson County)

Planning a trip to Kansas City, Missouri and wondering what to do once you get there? You’re in the right place. This Midwestern city in Jackson County is packed with great food, live music, family-friendly attractions, and unique local spots you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Kansas City, MO that give you a real feel for the area.

1. Explore the Country Club Plaza

If you only have time for one place in Kansas City, make it the Country Club Plaza. Locals just call it “the Plaza.” It’s an outdoor shopping and dining district about 10 minutes south of downtown. Inspired by Spanish architecture, the Plaza is full of:
  • Tile roofs and fountains
  • Cute courtyards and sculptures
  • Shops from big brands and small boutiques
  • Dozens of restaurants and coffee shops
Walk around in the evening when the lights come on. If you’re visiting in late November or December, the Plaza Christmas lights are a Kansas City tradition. Families have been coming to see them for generations. Tip: If you’re driving, there are several free parking garages, which is always nice when you’re not used to city parking prices.

2. Visit the National World War I Museum and Liberty Memorial

Right next to downtown Kansas City, you’ll find one of the city’s most powerful and meaningful attractions: the National World War I Museum and Memorial. The Museum sits below the tall stone Liberty Memorial tower. Once you walk across the glass bridge (you’ll see poppies below your feet), you’ll enter a huge collection of:
  • Weapons, uniforms, and vehicles
  • Letters from soldiers and families
  • Interactive exhibits and short films
It’s a serious place, but very well done and easy to follow. Even if you’re not a “history buff,” it’s hard not to be moved. Don’t skip the elevator ride up the Liberty Memorial tower. On a clear day, you get one of the best views of the Kansas City skyline from 217 feet up. Good to know: Plan at least 2–3 hours, especially if you’re visiting with older kids or anyone who likes to read every sign.

3. Eat Kansas City Barbecue (You Have To)

You can’t talk about things to do in Kansas City without mentioning barbecue. In fact, many people visit the city just to eat. Kansas City-style barbecue is all about:
  • Slow-smoked meats (brisket, burnt ends, ribs, pulled pork)
  • Thick, sweet-and-smoky tomato-based sauce
  • Hearty sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and cheesy corn
A few local favorites around Jackson County include:
  • Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – The original location is in a gas station. Don’t let that scare you. That’s part of the charm.
  • Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque – A Kansas City legend with a long history and a no-frills vibe.
  • Gates Bar-B-Q – Famous for the “Hi, may I help you?” greeting the second you walk in the door.
If you’re a planner, you can even create your own “barbecue crawl.” Pick two or three spots and split plates so you can taste more places in one day.

4. Catch a Game at Arrowhead or Kauffman Stadium

Sports fans, this is your playground. Right in Jackson County, side by side, are:
  • GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium – Home of the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
  • Kauffman Stadium – Home of the Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Arrowhead is one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL, and the tailgating is serious. Picture rows of grills, smokers, and fans in red as far as you can see. Kauffman Stadium, just across the parking lot, is known for:
  • Its giant outfield fountains
  • Fun family sections and kids’ activities
  • A more relaxed, summer-evening kind of vibe
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, going to a game is a very “Kansas City” thing to do, and it’s a great way to feel the local energy. Tip: If there’s no game while you’re in town, stadium tours are sometimes available and can be cheaper and less crowded than game day.

5. Wander the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (and the Giant Shuttlecocks)

If you’ve ever seen a photo of huge white shuttlecocks on a green lawn in Kansas City, that’s the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. This art museum, near the Plaza, has:
  • European paintings
  • Asian art and ancient artifacts
  • Modern and contemporary pieces
But one of the best parts is actually outside. The museum’s lawn is a beautiful sculpture park where you can stroll, relax, or snap fun photos with those giant shuttlecocks. The museum itself is very approachable. You don’t have to be an art expert to enjoy it. Many people just pick a few sections that interest them and don’t worry about seeing it all in one visit. Bonus: General admission to the Nelson-Atkins is often free, though some special exhibits may have a fee. Check their website before you go.

6. Take the Family to Union Station and Science City

Right in the heart of Kansas City sits Union Station, a beautiful 1914 train station that’s now a busy entertainment hub. Inside Union Station, you’ll find:
  • Science City – A hands-on science center, great for kids
  • Traveling exhibits (everything from dinosaurs to pop culture)
  • An escape room, planetarium, and theater
  • Restaurants, coffee shops, and a few little stores
Even if you don’t do any paid attractions, just walking around the grand hall with its high ceilings and huge windows feels special. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend half a day without realizing it. From Union Station, you can also hop on the free Kansas City Streetcar and ride north into downtown and the River Market area.

7. Explore the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District

If you like music or history, make time for the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District in Kansas City, MO. This neighborhood was once a major center for jazz in the United States. Today, you can still feel that history. Key stops include:
  • American Jazz Museum – Exhibits on famous musicians, plus listening stations where you can hear classic tracks.
  • Negro Leagues Baseball Museum – A powerful look at the Black baseball leagues and the players who changed the game.
At night, some local clubs and venues feature live jazz. Sitting at a small table, listening to music in the district where so many legends once played, is a special Kansas City experience.

8. Stroll the City Market and River Market Area

Just north of downtown, close to the Missouri River, is the River Market neighborhood. At its center is the City Market, one of the oldest public farmers markets in the region. On weekends, especially in warmer months, you’ll find:
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Local honey, baked goods, and snacks
  • Food stands from around the world
  • Plants, handmade soaps, and crafts
Around the market, the River Market area has:
  • Coffee shops and brunch spots
  • Casual restaurants and bars
  • Specialty grocery stores, including international markets
It’s a great place for a relaxed Saturday morning. Grab coffee, wander the stalls, and maybe pick up a snack for later. If you’re staying downtown, you can easily get there on the free streetcar.

9. Relax at Loose Park

Need a break from busy streets and packed schedules? Head to Loose Park, just a couple miles south of the Plaza in Kansas City, MO. Loose Park is one of the city’s most loved green spaces, with:
  • A large pond with ducks and geese
  • Walking paths and big open lawns
  • A beautiful rose garden (especially nice in late spring and early summer)
It’s a simple thing to do, but very enjoyable:
  • Bring a picnic blanket and some takeout from a Plaza restaurant.
  • Let the kids run around while you relax in the shade.
  • Take a slow walk and enjoy a quiet corner of the city.
Sometimes the best part of a trip is a low-key afternoon like this, where you’re not rushing from place to place.

10. Discover Local Flavors and Shops in Westport

A few minutes northwest of the Plaza is Westport, one of Kansas City’s oldest neighborhoods and now a lively area full of bars, restaurants, and local shops. Westport is a good choice if you:
  • Want a fun night out with plenty of food and drink options
  • Enjoy browsing small boutiques and record stores
  • Like the feel of historic buildings with a modern twist
You can spend an evening here hopping from:
  • Taco spots to burger joints
  • Craft beer bars to cocktail lounges
  • Live music venues and patios
If you’re more of a daytime person, Westport is still great for brunch, coffee, and people-watching.

Planning Your Kansas City Trip

When you put it all together, Kansas City, Missouri (in Jackson County) offers a nice balance:
  • History and culture – Museums, jazz, Union Station
  • Outdoor fun – Loose Park, sculpture gardens, walking districts
  • Food and drink – Barbecue, local restaurants, coffee, and nightlife
  • Family activities – Science City, sports games, City Market
You can easily mix and match these 10 things to do near Kansas City into a long weekend or a longer stay:
  • One day around downtown, Union Station, and the museums
  • One day near the Plaza, Nelson-Atkins, and Loose Park
  • One day focused on barbecue, a game, and Westport at night

Share Your Kansas City Favorites

Have you been to Kansas City, Missouri before? Did you fall in love with a certain barbecue spot, museum, or neighborhood? I’d love to hear your tips. Drop a comment with:
  • Your favorite thing to do in Kansas City
  • Hidden gems in Jackson County I should check out next time
  • Questions if you’re planning your first visit
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about a trip to Kansas City. The more we trade travel ideas, the better our adventures get.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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