Welcome to the things to do Kansas City guide. This vibrant and historically rich city offers many amazing destinations for visitors. Located roughly 250 miles west of St. Louis, set right on the border of Kansas, this city is one of the only cities in the United States that is actually positioned on two state borders, the Kansas side and the Missouri side. It is important to note that the Missouri side is where all of the fun and excitement occurs, from the revitalized downtown area, the many museums and the historical districts, not forgetting the rich history of this great city. On the Kansas side, the city consists mostly of suburbs and is actually lacking in any areas of real interest.
During the early 1800s, this city was a true staple to the wagon trains and settler routes that defined America. The city financially suffered during the Civil War but was later revived during the railroad tycoon revolution that saw thousands of stockyards populate the state. Today, the city boasts a mixture of cultures and ethnicities that have spawned a vibrant and exciting, newly revitalized downtown area complete with an astute mixture of arts, sciences, shopping districts and professional sports teams that have certainly earned Kansas City its own right as a destination, mid-western city on the US map. If you plan on traveling here, make sure to checkmark some of these must-see Kansas City tourist attractions.
Kansas City Zoo: One of the largest and most complete zoos in the entire US, this zoo boasts an amazing two hundred plus acres of land that it sits on. It is so large, in fact, that they even have trams that take visitors from one end of the zoo to another, as it could easily take half an hour to walk to both ends on foot. The zoo offers animals from around the world and is so popular that the park sees nearly three quarters of a million visitors annually. Don't forget to hop on a guided train tour of the zoo, to truly enjoy all the exhibits that it has to offer.
Westport: An absolute must-see when you travel to Kansas City, MO. Perhaps the oldest historical district in the entire city, and in the state for that matter, some of the red brick buildings in this district are so old that they used to serve as supply outposts for settlers and pioneers. Aside from the history and the many preserved buildings, this district is adorned with a plethora of unique eateries, art galleries, nightclubs, boutique stores and cafes.
18th & Vine District: This is the number one place that you have to see if you find yourself in this great city. Fondly referred to by musicians around the world as, 'The Birthplace of Jazz,' this location was the stomping grounds of some of jazz's greats including: Charlie Yardbird Park, Count Basie, Joe Turner and Ella Fitzgerald, just to name a few. Places not to be missed include: American Jazz Museum, Horace M. Peterson III Visitors Center and Gem Theater. On an additional note, this is the top tourist destination in Kansas City, so don't forget to mark this on your must-see list.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Experience some of the most famous art pieces in the world firsthand. Just to let you know about a few of the artist's works that you can see here, they include works by the following masters: Homer, Caravaggio, Monet, Titian, Rodin, Renoi, and many more. The museum offers several sections, including a real Egyptian tomb, a Chinese area and even a
sculpture garden. An absolute Must-See!
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art: There are many different facets to this great museum of contemporary arts. From above, the building has been designed to look like a bird with spread wings flying. Inside, onlookers can enjoy some of the most prominent contemporary artworks in the world. From Herb Ritts, to Robert Juarez, if you travel to Kansas City, MO, make certain you set
aside a few hours to peruse this great museum.
Worlds of Fun: One of the hottest amusement parks in the US boasts nearly two hundred acres of fun, including two of the best rollercoasters in the world, Boomerang and Timber Wolf. There are plenty of eateries, vendor booths and even kids rides. If you plan on coming here make certain you don't forget sunscreen and set aside an entire day if you plan to really enjoy all that this park has to offer.
Science City: This five-section newly-remodeled science center offers tons of fully interactive displays where you can learn all about different scientific anomalies. Admission is rather cheap, but make sure that you have a few hours so that you can really see and explore all that this great science center has to offer visitors. This is an exceptional Kansas City attraction for families with younger children.
Kaleidoscope: For families with children, make sure that you stop by this exciting science learning center where they have dozens of activities that your kids will love. Stop by one of the exhibits and sign up your kids for a one hour session, where they will create amazing art and have a blast at the same time.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum: If you happen to check out 18th and Vine District (listed above as a top destination), stop by this great museum and learn about the struggles of civil rights as they pertained to baseball, back when segregation laws prevented African-Americans from playing in the 'White' major leagues.
Oceans of Fun: During the warmer months, escape from the humidity and the heat by spending a few hours at this amazing water park. Dozens of rides and slides, and large pools will greet you, including an exceptional area that is created just for younglings.
This guide of things to do Kansas City should make your trip so much more exciting. Be sure to take your time, take in the sights, and you will surely have a trip to remember.
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