Things to do in Kansas City
National World War I Museum
At the foot of the striking, towering Liberty Memorial in Penn Valley Park, you’ll find one of the country’s finest museums dedicated to the story of World War One. Visitors can walk through replica trenches and craters, view weapons, uniforms and other artifacts, and behold the powerful glass bridge over 9,000 poppies.
Kansas City Zoo
Only around a 15-minute drive south of central KC, you can come face-to-face with chimps, sea lions and penguins. Ride the sky safari 40 feet above the African Plains to see zebras, giraffes and rhinos from a bird’s eye view. For a more tranquil way to spot ostriches, elephants and more, jump aboard the Kenyan Cruise boat ride.
American Jazz Museum
Learn about the birth and boom of jazz at the heart of the Vine Jazz District. Wander through the museum, admiring memorabilia such as Ella Fitzgerald’s gown and Charlie Parker’s saxophone, discovering how the cultural shift shaped the city. Depending on what’s on, you can even stay for a show in the Blue Room or restored Gem Theater from 1912.
The best restaurants in Kansas City
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
3002 West 47th Avenue (66103)
Just over the state border in Westwood – around 15 minutes south of Downtown Kansas City in your rental car – is some of the best BBQ around. There are three in the city but this is the original. Pile your plate with all the greats, including ribs and burnt ends, smoked chicken and jumbo BBQ sandwiches.
EJ’s Urban Eatery
1414 West 9th Street (64101)
EJ’s in West Bottoms is another popular BBQ haunt. Renowned for its white BBQ sauce, make sure you pour plenty on any burgers, brisket or chicken breast you order.
Fox and Pearl
2143 Summit Street (64108)
A wood-fired hearth is at the heart of this upscale restaurant that focuses on Lower Midwestern favorites in Downtown. Pioneering modern KC dining, enjoy the likes of smoked goat chorizo and heritage pork sausage on the seasonal menu.
Where to stay in Kansas City
The Raphael
325 Ward Parkway (64112)
South of the center, near the banks of Brush Creek, The Raphael appears on the National Register of Historic Places – and is a fine example of Italian Renaissance Revival architecture from the 1920s. Today, it has a modern, elegant and European feel, and boasts the award-winning Chaz on the Plaza restaurant.
Crossroads Hotel
2101 Central Street (64108)
Art and design play a big part in this place, close to Penn Valley Park, Union Station and the Liberty Memorial. There’s an on-site gallery, while modern pieces adorn the walls of the contemporary rooms.
The Fontaine
901 West 48th Place (64112)
This boutique hotel is decorated with modern art and furniture, the beds are made with Egyptian cotton, and it all emanates chic vibes. An outdoor pool, fitness center and stylish restaurant offer all the facilities you need.
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