Personally, I enjoy vacations or getaways that are focused on nature or the outdoors. Planning a strictly city-based vacation is out of character for me. However, due to the vast amount of cool attractions, it has been a serious contender for our Summer vacation.
Introduction
The first thing that comes to mind when I think about Kansas City, Missouri is barbecue. Though, that could be because it’s one of my favorite types of food. Think of all the barbecue you could sample, compare and contrast on a week long trip!
A plethora of fountains is not something that came to mind before I researched Kansas City. However , Kansas City’s nickname is the “City of Fountains” and they earn that title. There are more than 200 fountains throughout Kansas City. Your can even let your kids frolic in some of them.
The variety of museums in Kansas City was also surprising. There are so many awesome museums covering such a variety of topics. You may need to plan a second trip to fit them all in. Regardless of what you choose to do in KC, you’ll find it to be a vibrant, diverse city.
Trip Length: 5-7 days
Distance from Chicago: 7 Hours 45 Minutes
Travel “Flavors”: Food, History, Music, Thrillseeking, Culture
Itinerary Suggestions
Fountains
Start by exploring something Kansas City is famous for…the fountains. Take a self-guided tour using the information on the City of Fountains Foundation website.
Museums
I was blown away by the sheer number of museums on so many different topic There is litterally something for everyone.
- Negro League Baseball Museum
- National World War I Museum and Memorial
- American Jazz Museum
- Leila’s Hair Museum
- The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
- Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
- Arabia Steamboat Museum
- National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
- Airline History Museum
- Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum
- The Regnier Family Wonderscape Museum (a children’s museum dedicated to STEAM)
- Money Museum
- National Frontier Trails Museum
- Peace Pavilion – a museum dedicated to teaching children about peace
Thrill-Seeking
Worlds of Fun Theme Park and Oceans of Fun Water Park – they call themselves the “Largest Amusement Park Complex in the Midwest.” Whether you are the ultimate thrill-seeker or someone who prefers to relax in the lazy river, you will find something you enjoy.
Kansas City Speedway and Richard Petty Driving Experience – you too can drive a race car… and then go watch the professionals.
Crown Center
You could easily spend a day at Crown Center because there are multiple attractions all in one location. The attractions include:
- Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium
- Legoland Discovery Center
- Hallmark Visitors Center – learn about Hallmark’s history
- Kaleidoscope – a free place for kids to create art
- Two performance theaters
- An ice skating rink
Religious Inspiration
Independence Temple – The temple is a house of worship for the Community of Christ. Follow the Worshipers Path to view the spiritual artwork. Visit a garden designed by master gardeners from Japan. View the beautiful stained glass windows.
Transportation
KC Streetcar – tired of driving and looking for parking spots? Take the FREE KC Streetcar to get to your destination.
Art Installation
Art Alley – explore this ever-changing exhibit of grafitti art
Animals and the Outdoors
Kansas City Zoo – The zoo is best known for its extensive Africa exhibits.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary – take the White Tail Trail to see the waterfall
Cave Spring Park – see the caves and cascades
Cliff Drive and Kessler Park – Cliff Drive is a scenic byway located within Kessler park. During part of the year it is closed to vehicle traffic so it can be enjoyed by hikers and bikers.
Food and Shopping
The City Market – I LOVE visiting local markets to sample the local produce and peruse the stalls of local artisans.
Prospero’s Books – who doesn’t like viisitng an independent bookstore
BBQ – since I haven’t made it to KC to feast on barbecue yet, I won’t make recommendations on the best restaurants. However, there are plenty of sources to help you make a list. Check out this list from Thrillist.
Travel Accessory
I’m a huge fan of the product and gift lists you see floating around the internet because I usually find some new-to-me product for myself, a friend or family member. I’d like to offer you the same inspiration by highlighting a travel accessory in each post.
This section contains an affiliate link. If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.
Is it a struggle for you to stay hydrated, especially when traveling? Me too! The trouble is, even when I do remember to drink more, i don’t have anything to drink with me. Now we can both be better with this collapsible water bottle. It gets an average review rating on Amazon of 4.3 stars from almost 3,000 reviewers. You can easily tuck it into a purse or backpack and have it available to easily fill. Plus, thanks to green initiatives, many water fountains now have a bottle filling station. Therefore, it shouldn’t be hard to get refills.
Final Thoughts
Those are just the highlights that stood out to me. For more information, check out the Visit KC website. If you use my trip suggestions or if you’ve visited any of these locations in the past, please provide your reviews in the comments. Did I miss something? Please add other itinerary suggestions in the comments, especially if they are off the beaten path. Happy vacationing!
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