Whether you recognize Kansas City from Queer Eye, live there, or just have it on your bucket list; there’s always something new to discover. This midwest paradise has become my city escape and home away from home. After over a dozen visits and many AirBnb stays, I'm ready share all my tips, tricks, and suggestions with you.
“And I love you dear, but how long can I keep singing the same old song? I'm going back to Kansas City.” -Bob Dylan
Entertainment
1. Concerts!
I usually roll my eyes when I see this on a 'must do' list. But Kansas City is a major city, which means there's LOTS of great concerts. I saw Bastille at Uptown Theater for $40, and it was the best concert I've ever been to! I also saw The Head and the Heart at Starlight Theatre for $35! Concerts are a great thing to incorporate into a weekend trip, and Uptown Theater is completely charming. I would definitely recommend Starlight Theatre for the warmer months!
Tip:
-Check out the "Events" tab on Facebook to see upcoming concerts (and other events) in Kansas City, Missouri.
2. City Market on Saturday morning!
Farmers markets are my absolute favorite. But a farmers market in the city just can't be beat! It's the perfect place to grab a coffee, enjoy the skyline view, and start your weekend off right. There's fresh produce, flowers, and many other vendors. There's also an impressive variety of culturally diverse restaurants to enjoy.
And don’t forget about the park behind the City Market! It’s the perfect spot to sit, dog watch, and enjoy lunch or a scone from City Market Coffee.
Address: 20 E 5th St, Kansas City, MO 64106
Hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-3PM
Saturday- 6AM-3PM
Sunday- 8AM-3PM
Tips:
-You can go other days of the week, but it's most lively on Saturday mornings.
-City Market Coffee has fresh juice! They juice the vegetables right in front of you!
-Bring reusable bags for your purchases.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
As an art fanatic, I couldn't believe this museum was FREE! It's well known for it's Asian art, but I was blown away by all the Impressionist pieces. There were Van Gogh, Mary Cassatt, and many other incredible artists represented. I spent hours walking through the museum, but you can go at your own pace. There's something for everyone!
Address: 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64111
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 10am-5pm
Friday - 10am-9pm
Closed on Tuesdays
4. Leedy-Voulkos Art Center
Kansas City has an awesome art district! I discovered this gallery after asking my AirBnb host for recommendations, and I've been back multiple times. The Crossroads Arts District has several other local galleries to explore, but this one is definitely my favorite. I would recommend starting at this gallery and then walking around to see how many other galleries you can find in the area!
Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 11AM-5PM
Closed Sunday-Tuesday
Address: 2012 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108
Tips:
-I recommend visiting during a First Friday in Kansas City. They offer FREE wine at most galleries in the area, and there are lots of people out and about. There are also lots of local artists that sell their work.
5. Liberty Memorial
I left this off my list during my first couple visits to Kansas City. That was a huge mistake, so be sure to put this on your list! The Liberty Memorial has an AMAZING view of the skyline, and it's FREE to climb the steps and enjoy the view. You can also pay $5 to take an elevator up the Memorial, which offers a phenomenal panoramic view of the city. (Or $2 if you purchase a National WWI Museum ticket with it.)
Address: 2 Memorial Drive, Kansas City, MO 64108
Tip:
-I noticed that most KC locals recommend this spot for the best skyline view.
6. Union Station
Union Station is right across from the Liberty Memorial. It's a historic train station with a science center, exhibits (both temporary and permanent), restaurants, a planetarium, and a gift shop. I've been inside several times, and I'd recommend stopping by to see it's architectural beauty. Check it out after going to the Liberty Memorial, even if it's just for a quick glance!
Address: 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Open daily 6AM-12PM
7. Urban Mining Homewares!
This antique store was a recommendation from my AirBnb host, and I fell in love! I bought some Italian bookends and a giant art book for my coffee table. They have everything from rugs, trinkets, maps, pillows, blanket, maps, furniture, and so much more. It's the perfect place to find some vintage treasures for your home! I've visited several antique stores in Kansas City, and this one is my absolute favorite.
Address: 3111 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64109
Hours: Thursday- 9AM-9PM
Friday- 9AM-9PM
Saturday- 9AM-6PM
Sunday- 12PM-5PM
Closed Monday-Wednesday
8. Bar K Dog Bar
Bar K Dog Bar is a coffeehouse, restaurant, and dog park. I shouldn't have to explain why this place sounds like pure HEAVEN. It's also a popular spot for locals, if you're looking for something less touristy. I haven't been (yet), and I also don't have a dog (yet). But the moment I have a dog, you'll most likely find me here EVERY weekend. Also, the bar/restaurant is made of repurposed shipping containers! This sounds like the perfect spot to grab a beer and let your dog socialize.
Address: 501 Berkley Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64120
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 9AM-10PM
Friday-Sunday 9AM-10PM
Thursday 9AM-2PM
9. Local KC Shops!
I've discovered some adorable local shops in Kansas City! These are perfect places to find original, locally-crafted, vintage, and native Kansas City items. Whether you're looking for a birthday gift or souvenir, these shops are too cute to miss!
--> Urban Provisions
Address: 115 W 18th St, Ste 107, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Monday- Closed
Tuesday-Saturday 11AM–7PM
Sunday- 11AM–5PM
--> Mid Coast Modern
Address: 314 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Hours: Monday - Wednesday 11AM-6PM
Thursday - Closed
Friday - 11AM-6PM
Saturday - 10AM-6PM
Sunday - 10AM-3PM
--> Westside Storey
Address: 1701 Summit St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Sunday - Monday 10AM-3PM
Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-7PM
--> Donna's Dress Shop (Thrift Shop with new and used vintage dresses)
Address: 1410 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Hours: Monday - Saturday 11AM-7PM
Sunday - 12PM-5PM
--> RAYGUN
Address: 1803 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Monday - Friday 10AM-6PM
Saturday - 10AM-7PM
Sunday - 11AM-5PM
--> Arizona Trading Company (Thrift Store)
Address: 209 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Hours: Monday - Saturday 11AM-7PM
Sunday - 12PM-6PM
10. First Fridays!
I saved the best for last! This is hands down my favorite thing to do in KC! On the first Friday of each month, Kansas City comes alive with jazz bands, break dancing, street performers, food trucks, local vendors, and art displays. It takes place in the Crossroads Arts District, and you can hop on and off a KC Streetcar to stop and explore. The art galleries stay open late, and many of them hand out free wine. It's such an awesome way to spend your Friday night!
Thanks for reading!
I'm headed back to Kansas City this weekend, so I'd love to hear about your KC favorites in the comments below!
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