Kansas City Area Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Kansas City Area with this comprehensive guide. From cultural attractions to hiking trails, food and drinks, local customs, and safety, this guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip.


Introduction to Kansas City Area

Located in the heart of Midwest USA, Kansas City Area is a vibrant and diverse region that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. This area, which spans both Kansas and Missouri, offers travelers a variety of attractions and activities to explore. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Kansas City Area.

List of Places to Visit in Kansas City Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kansas City has a rich history that can be seen in its museums and historical sites. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions of the area include:

National World War I Museum and Memorial

Located in Kansas City, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history of World War I and honors the sacrifices of the people who fought and served.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

This museum showcases the contributions of African American baseball players in the early and mid-20th century.

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

This library and museum is dedicated to President Harry S. Truman, who was raised in Independence, Missouri, and was the 33rd President of the United States.

Natural Attractions of Kansas City Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of natural attractions in the Kansas City Area. Whether you want to hike, paddle, or simply take in the scenic views, there’s something for everyone in these natural attractions:

Lake Jacomo

This lake, located in Jackson County, offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, boating, and fishing.

Kansas City Zoo

Located in Swope Park, this zoo boasts over 200 acres of animal habitats and interactive exhibits.

Powell Gardens

This botanical garden spans 970 acres and offers beautiful trails, gardens and fountains to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kansas City Area

Kansas City Area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that will challenge even the most experienced outdoor adventurers. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Katy Trail State Park
  • Swope Park Trails
  • Freedom Trail

Best Things to Do in Kansas City Area: Activities and Tours

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, there are countless activities and tours to explore in the Kansas City Area, including:

  • Boulevard Brewing Company Tour
  • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Walking Tour
  • Kansas Speedway

Week-Long Itinerary for Kansas City Area

If you’re planning a trip to the Kansas City Area and have a week to explore, we’ve created a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
2 Tour Boulevard Brewing Company
3 Day trip to Powell Gardens
4 Visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial
5 Natural History Museum and Overland Park Arboretum
6 Enjoy Lake Jacomo
7 Shopping in Country Club Plaza

Food and Drink Scene of Kansas City Area

Kansas City is famous for its barbecue, but there’s much more to the local food scene than just smoked meats.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kansas City-style barbecue
  • burnt ends
  • fried chicken at Stroud’s

Local Beverages

  • Boulevard Brewing Co. beer
  • Messenger Coffee Co.
  • J. Rieger & Co. spirits

Where to Stay in Kansas City Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Some of the best places to stay in Kansas City Area are:

  • The Raphael Hotel
  • 21c Museum Hotel
  • The Fontaine

What to Buy in Kansas City Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kansas City is famous for its barbecue sauce and rubs, but there are also plenty of other local products worth bringing home.

  • Christopher Elbow chocolates
  • Kansas City-made ale or whiskey
  • Original art pieces by local artists

Local Culture and Customs of Kansas City Area

Kansas City is a friendly and welcoming city with a strong sense of community. Locals are proud of their heritage and enjoy sharing it with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Kansas City Area

The best time to visit the Kansas City Area is during the fall (September-November) when the weather is mild, and there are several festivals and events happening.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kansas City Area

Do:

  • Try the barbecue
  • Visit local museums and historical sites
  • Explore the natural attractions

Don’t:

  • Expect to find a lot of public transportation options
  • Forget to tip your server

Safety and Health

Kansas City Area is generally a safe destination, but travelers should take the usual precautions to avoid theft and stay safe.

Safety in Kansas City Area

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas
  • Keep valuables out of sight in your car
  • Keep your doors locked when driving.

Health in Kansas City Area

  • Drink plenty of water, especially in the summer months
  • Wear sunscreen if you’re spending time outside

Getting to Kansas City Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kansas City has several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Kansas City Area

  • Kansas City International Airport
  • Johnson County Executive Airport

Bus Stations Near Kansas City Area

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • Jefferson Lines

Other Options

  • Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft
  • Rental cars

How to Get Around in Kansas City Area

While public transportation is not as robust in Kansas City as it is in some larger cities, there are still ways to get around:

  • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft
  • Streetcar
  • Rental cars

Where to Go Next from Kansas City Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have an extra day or two during your trip to the Kansas City Area, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • St. Louis, MO
  • Ozark National Scenic Riverways
  • Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

Conclusion

With its rich history, cultural attractions, natural beauty, and delicious food, the Kansas City Area is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in the heart of Midwest USA.



    Independence
    Kansas City