13 Top Reasons to Visit Kansas City

From the moment you arrive in Kansas City, MO, you’ll be welcomed with the enticing aroma of open-fire barbecues and the smooth sounds of live jazz. If you’re looking for things to do in Kansas City, we’ve got you covered. This Midwest jewel offers far more than great food and music. The City of Fountains is a booming arts mecca and sports fan’s dream packed with premiere museums, must-visit stadiums and, of course, more fountains than any city in the U.S. itself. So, if you're wondering what to do in Kansas City, here’s our list of the 13 top reasons to visit Kansas City:

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Any list about Kansas City wouldn't be worth its salt (or rub) if it didn't include its world-famous barbecue in the top reasons for visiting Kansas City. Pitmasters across the city smoke everything from beef brisket and pork ribs to sausage and turkey, all slathered in the KC-born sweet, tomato and molasses sauce known nationwide (maybe beyond) as the best barbecue sauce you're likely to ever taste.

Technically in Kansas City, KS (although still within the Kansas City, MO Metropolitan Area), Joe’s is so good we had to include it in our list of things to do in Kansas City. Joe’s has several locations, but for the authentic vibe, head to the original “Gas Station” location. For a real treat, try the legendary “Z-Man Sandwich” — a toasted kaiser stuffed with mouthwatering slow-smoked brisket, provolone and crispy onion rings. Add a side of their legendary fries, seasoned with over 23 spices and you’ll have more than enough to share (if you’re feeling generous).

For a more upscale culinary experience, complete with “specialty craft cocktails” and “Competition Plates” created by award-winning, “classically trained chef” Rob McGee, Q39 serves all your barbecue favorites. From the “Best Wings on the Planet” to the memorable “Burnt End Burger,” this is definitely a contender for top reasons to visit Kansas City.

For outstanding Kansas City ambience with the best of traditional open-fire-pit barbecue, this is the place to visit. In the center of Kansas City, Jack Stack BBQ has over 65 years of tradition and genuine Kansas City love grilled right into its extensive menu. Dedicated pitmasters offer award-winning dishes, including baked beans, steaks, seafood and their famous hickory smoked burnt ends — grilled 10-12 hours for melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

AAA Tip: If you’re looking for more Kansas City restaurants or craving something other than barbecue, the Crossroads Arts District has everything to tempt your palate. A trendy neighborhood filled with farm-to-table eateries, third-wave coffee shops and local craft breweries, like Boulevard Brewing Co. For a real treat, head to the district’s highly acclaimed hotspot Novel, where you'll find locally sourced ingredients in dishes like “Crispy Farm Egg” and fresh pasta entrées.

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Kansas City is home to a vibrant arts scene that easily rivals heavy hitters like Chicago and New York, featuring world-renowned collections at Midwest prices.

This museum offers almost a century of spectacular exhibits and collections, from ancient Egyptian, Roman and Greek artifacts to its prize piece, Caravaggio’s “Saint John the Baptist in the Wilderness.” See Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists, such as Monet, van Gogh and Cezanne. Explore the outdoor giant Shuttlecock sculptures or take in the museum’s stunning architecture, from its Ionic columns to the modern Bloch Building. For art lovers, this museum is by far among the best things to do in Kansas City. The cost? Nothing. General admission to the museum is free.

If you’re a military enthusiast or history buff and you’re wondering what to do in Kansas City, look no further. Designated the United States' official WWI museum, with the world's largest collection of Great War pieces (350,000-plus) the National WWI Museum and Memorial is a must-see attraction. See real artifacts from the “All Quiet on the Western Front” Netflix series. Find an original Zeppelin L49 piece, one of 13 Zeppelins that attacked England Oct. 19, 1917 and learn about the incredible WWII bicycle battalions (cyclist corps)

Defined by its towering glass walls and unique clam-shaped design that provides outstanding acoustics, this impressive non-profit performing arts center features two main venues: Helzberg Hall and the Muriel Kauffman Theatre. Together, these architectural marvels host everything from symphonies and ballet to Broadway-class shows and comedy.

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In the 1920s and 30s, while most of the US was experiencing prohibition, Kansas City offered a vibrant music scene. From greats like Count Basie and Charlie Parker, the city became the heart and soul of blues-styled jazz. Today, those deep-musical roots continue in the city’s internationally known 18th & Vine Jazz District — a historic center for African American businesses and birthplace of Kansas City jazz. Whether you’re looking to experience the late-night lounge culture or daytime jazz history, these hotspots offer great options.

A cornerstone of the 18th & Vine District, this live-music venue (inside the American Jazz Museum) offers the best of the city’s local jazz artists and premier national musicians. Take in the club’s upbeat ambience and memorabilia-lined walls that will have you up and dancing to the sounds of America’s finest jazz — from timeless early classics to today’s modern improvisations.

Jazz-lovers unite at this interactive music museum that tells the story of America’s jazz culture. Listen to the unforgettable sounds of jazz legends like Miles Davis and Shirley Horn, watch films about jazz history and explore prized collections, including Benny Goodman's shoes and Charlie Parker’s saxophone.

This one-of-a-kind Museum is dedicated to honoring African American baseball. Explore the history of the sport and African Americans’ valuable contribution to this time-honored pastime during segregation. See stories about greats like Jackie Robinson and Martin Dihigo to Josh Gibson and Satchel Paige and discover their impact on America’s social advancement.

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If you’re a sports fan or traveling with kids, Kansas City has you covered.

Whether you’re a Chiefs or Royals fan (or both), a trip to a game is definitely among the top reasons to visit Kansas City. Catch a Chiefs game at Arrowhead Stadium and experience the thrill of being part of the most passionate and loudest fans in professional football. In the summer, take the family to Kauffman Stadium for a Royals game and let the kids enjoy the Outfield Experience, where they can take a swing in the batting cages or play mini-golf.

This three-floor, 100,000-plus-square-foot interactive science center offers over 300 fun-filled interactive exhibits. As “Kansas City’s Favorite Family Friendly Attraction,” there’s something for kids of all ages — from robots and the Tot Lot and Whisper Dishes to the Riveting Robots and the SkyBike.

A favorite with kids of all ages, LEGOLAND is the perfect indoor playground filled with everything LEGO. Children can watch 4D movies, enjoy rides, take pics with their favorite LEGO characters and interact with the 1.5-million LEGO bricks in the mini replica of Kansas City landmarks.

This Kansas City aquarium has over 30 exciting displays with thousands of captivating tropical fish. See sting rays, blacktip sharks, sting rays and even a giant octopus. Kids will love Doodle Reef, where they can create virtual sea creatures and watch them swim in a live display.

AAA Tip: The KC Streetcar is a free service downtown, running from Riverfront to UMKC. While parking downtown varies by neighborhood, there’s generally free parking along the KC Streetcar route, but it can fill up quickly near popular destinations. Many downtown residential streets offer free parking, but check posted restrictions to avoid fines. Area hotels may also offer free valet parking for guests.

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