Kansas City

Travel Guide

Kansas City
Kansas City
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art featuring modern architecture and a statue or sculpture
Kansas City
Kansas City

The land of jazz, barbecues and fountains is carving out its place as a prime travel destination in the heart of Midwestern America.

Kansas City, also known as “K.C.,” balances many identities: a cradle of jazz, home to world-renowned fountains, and the birthplace of the American barbecue. The largest city in Missouri might seem a bit disjointed – it’s even split across two states and a river – but it all comes together in an inviting way. Art galleries, city parks, high-profile performances and museums all serve to make this city one of the most interesting in the Midwest.

Swing past the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art or explore ancient relics and modern masterpieces at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. The museum’s sculpture park is an ideal place to bring a picnic. Children will love the hands-on experience at the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City. Explore the unique exhibits in the Arabia Steamboat Museum, wander through the River Market area and stop by the City Market on weekends to sample local produce and handmade goods.

The historic Westport area is a great place to stop for lunch and explore the city’s past. Look for restaurants serving home-style barbecue and classic hickory-smoked cuisine. Music aficionados should head down to 18th and Vine, which is just east of downtown, to experience one of the heartlands of American jazz.

Head beyond the city center and visit the expansive Swope Park. In addition to numerous trails, a golf course and gardens, the park is also home to the Kansas City Zoo and the Starlight Theatre, two of the most visited venues in Kansas City. To the north of the city, Worlds of Fun will keep the kids amused for hours, while the Harley-Davidson Factory will appeal to motorcycle enthusiasts. When the weather gets warm, bring the family to Schlitterbahn Water Park, home to the mighty Verrückt, one of the world's tallest waterslides. Back in town, the Liberty Memorial has an internationally renowned World War I museum.

Although Kansas has a reliable public transportation network, the car is still the major mode of transportation in the city and is necessary if you want to explore some attractions outside the city center.

Where to stay in Kansas City

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I-435 West

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in I-435 West, Legends Outlets Kansas City and Legends Field are top sights worth seeing.

I-435 West
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Rosedale

While visiting Rosedale, you might make a stop by sights like 39th Street West and Rosedale Memorial Arch.

Rosedale
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Edwardsville

Shopping and entertainment venues are just a few things travellers like about Edwardsville. A stop by Village West is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

Edwardsville
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Armourdale

While there might not be top attractions in Armourdale, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Kemper Arena and American Royal Complex.

Armourdale
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Shawnee Heights

While visiting Shawnee Heights, you might make a stop by sights like Sauer Castle and Boulevard Drive-In Theater.

Shawnee Heights
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Victory Hills

When in Victory Hills, you can plan a visit to Legends Outlets Kansas City and Schlitterbahn, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Victory Hills
Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City

Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City

3.5 out of 5
1491 North 98th Terrace, Kansas City, KS
The price is €178 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
€178
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Kansas City. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and 2 bars/lounges. Popular attractions Legends Outlets Kansas City and Kansas ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (33 reviews)
"Such a nice location with so many things to do and lovely staff. Really enjoyed our stay 💖"

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Margaritaville Hotel Kansas City
Comfort Suites Speedway - Kansas City

Comfort Suites Speedway - Kansas City

2.5 out of 5
3000 N. 103rd Terrace, Kansas City, KS
The price is €81 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
€81
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Kansas City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
Excellent place, reasonable price
"Pool was open until 10pm so able to get a few minutes of exercise in after a long day in the car! Room was large and clean, bed comfortable, and several hot and cold breakfast options. Easy location off the interstate!"

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025

Comfort Suites Speedway - Kansas City
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kansas City at Village West, KS

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kansas City at Village West, KS

3 out of 5
1805 N 110th St, Kansas City, KS
The price is €76 per night from 18 Aug to 19 Aug
€76
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kansas City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,008 reviews)
"Staff were friendly and helpful. Check in was quick and easy. The hotel was undergoing renovations, and there were supplies/materials stacked all throughout the hallways. Even so, we weren’t bothered by the renovations. The beds were comfortable, but the pillows weren’t great. Food options nearby ..."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kansas City at Village West, KS
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Stylish West Plaza Retreat w/ Huge Yard, BBQ, and Games

Stylish West Plaza Retreat w/ Huge Yard, BBQ, and Games

Kansas City
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Kansas City. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Nelson-Atkins Museum ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (35 reviews)
"We had a great time and loved the location of this little house. Megan was amazing to work with!!"

Reviewed on 27 Jul 2025

Stylish West Plaza Retreat w/ Huge Yard, BBQ, and Games
KC Backyard Vacation

KC Backyard Vacation

Kansas City
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Kansas City. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a water park. Popular attractions Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (70 reviews)
Perfect Spot for a Family Reunion – Beautiful Home & Exceptional Host!
"We had a wonderful stay for our family reunion! The home was a great place to gather—plenty of space, and the rooms were fresh, clean, and inviting. The kids were so happy with the pool and hot tub! Shaymond was an outstanding host—very communicative and helpful. He even stopped by personally to ..."

Reviewed on 18 Jul 2025

KC Backyard Vacation
The Teal Townhouse Near KU Med and Central to Many KC Landmarks/Attractions

The Teal Townhouse Near KU Med and Central to Many KC Landmarks/Attractions

Kansas City
Stay at this vacation home in Kansas City. Enjoy laundry facilities, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Science City at Union ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (12 reviews)
Affordable place for a family
"Very clean and close to many things to do! Only bad thing was the neighborhood wasn’t fantastic, but would stay again."

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025

The Teal Townhouse Near KU Med and Central to Many KC Landmarks/Attractions
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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