Need a Midwest city getaway with BBQ, sports, and multicultural flavor? Head to Kansas City, Kansas! Often overshadowed by its Missouri twin, Kansas City, KS is a vibrant destination in its own right—offering world-class motorsports, rich Hispanic heritage, and plenty of outdoor adventure. Whether you're catching a soccer game, shopping at Legends Outlets, or exploring riverside trails, KCK delivers big experiences with a local feel.
Kansas City, KS Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Zip or hike at Wyandotte County Lake Park – Explore miles of wooded trails, paddle the lake, or fish in peaceful surroundings.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Strawberry Hill Museum & Cultural Center – Discover Eastern European immigrant history in a beautiful Victorian mansion.
- For Shoppers: Head to Legends Outlets Kansas City – Shop top brands, catch a movie, or dine at this massive open-air retail center.
- For Couples: Enjoy dinner and a show at Hollywood Casino and Kansas Speedway – Try your luck on the slots or cheer on a thrilling NASCAR race.
- For Families: Play and learn at Great Wolf Lodge – Water slides, themed suites, and kid-friendly entertainment make this a top family staycation spot.
Best Time to Visit Kansas City, KS
The best time to visit Kansas City, KS is spring through fall (April–October), when the weather is great for outdoor concerts, sports, and festivals. Fall is ideal for mild temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer offers long days and plenty of events.
How to Get to Kansas City, KS
- If you are traveling by car: KCK is located at the junction of I-70 and I-635, just across the river from downtown Kansas City, MO.
- By Air: Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is about 20–25 minutes away and offers nonstop flights to most major U.S. cities.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak and Greyhound serve nearby Kansas City, MO, just minutes from KCK by car or rideshare.
Where to Stay in Kansas City, KS
- Great Wolf Lodge Kansas City – Indoor water park resort ideal for families, located next to Legends Outlets and the Speedway.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton at The Legends – Suite-style accommodations with free breakfast and easy access to shopping and dining.
- Hilton Garden Inn Kansas City/Kansas – Comfortable downtown hotel near government buildings and cultural sites.
Best Things to Do in Kansas City, KS
1. Kansas Speedway
Watch thrilling races and explore the track on an exciting weekend trip.
The Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas is one of the Midwest’s premier facilities for racing, hosting a NASCAR XFINITY Series race, two races in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, the ARCA Racing Series championship race, and a race in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series every year. Race fans from both throughout the country and the world come to the Kansas Speedway to watch some of the world’s top drivers, along with some great racing action. Many special events are held at the speedway throughout the year as well, such as the Richard Petty Driving Experience.
400 Speedway Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111, Phone: 866-460-7223
2. Children's Mercy Park
Cheer for the home team and enjoy a lively family-friendly outing.
Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City is a stadium specific to soccer and is the home field of Sporting Kansas City. Situated near the Kansas Speedway, the facility opened in June of 2011 with a Major League Soccer match of Kansas City versus the Chicago Fire. With a seating capacity of more than 18,000 people, Children's Mercy Park also hosted the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Game in 2013, as well as the MLS Cup and the U.S. Men’s National Soccer team. The park is the only stadium to have hosted all three of these in the same year.
1 Sporting Way, Kansas City, KS 66111, Phone: 913-912-7525
3. The Legends at Village West
Shop name brands and dine out on an easy summer shopping trip.
The Legends at Village West, or Legends Outlet, is a premier outdoor destination for entertainment and shopping in Kansas City, Kansas, as well as the area’s only outlet center. Home to over seventy popular brand name retailers and leading designer stores, the Legends Outlet also includes a wide variety of entertainment venues and restaurants. Signature outlet stores include Under Armour Factory House, Polo Ralph Lauren Outlet, Nike Factory Store, J.Crew, Gap Factory, Banana Republic Factory Store, Coach, and many others.
1843 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111, Phone: 913-788-3700
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Community America Ballpark
Catch a baseball game and enjoy stadium snacks on a fun kids outing.
Community America Ballpark is part of an impressive complex that includes other sports facilities like the Children’s Mercy Field and the Kansas Speedway, as well as several places to eat, an outlet mall, the Great Wolf Lodge, the NASCAR Racing Experience, and the Hollywood Casino. The Community America Ballpark is a baseball stadium in Kansas City, Kansas and is the home field of the Kansas City T-Bones, a team in the American Association. The ballpark can seat up to 7,500 spectators, including the center field party area, the right field grassy area, the picnic area, and the concourse.
1800 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111, Phone: 913-328-2255
5. Cider Hill Family Orchard
Pick fresh apples and enjoy wagon rides during a fall family adventure.
The Cider Hill Family Orchard welcomes families to come visit for the day and pick their own fruit, browse the charming cottage store, relax next to the fire pit, take a train ride or a hayride, or just simply take in the fresh air of the countryside. Apple season at Cider Hill starts in the latter part of July and runs until October. In addition to apples, the orchard also offers U-Pick for raspberries and blackberries in July and August, as well as asparagus in April and May. There’s even an Apple Wagon to transport visitors to the orchard.
3341 N 139th St, Kansas City, KS 66109, Phone: 913-721-2507
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. Strawberry Hill Museum & Cultural Center
Tour historic rooms and discover immigrant stories on an affordable educational trip.
Housed in an original 1887 Queen Anne style house, the Strawberry Hill Museum & Cultural Center is dedicated to preserving the diverse cultures of the area brought to Kansas City by Eastern European immigrants during the early part of the 1900’s. A variety of exhibits are hosted by the museum, covering dance, music, and original art from the many ethnic cultures, as well as over thirty rooms featuring unique displays. Several permanent exhibits highlight the heritage of a number of countries in Eastern Europe, such as Russia, Slovakia, Poland, Ukraine, and Croatia through toys, pictures, books, and more.
720 N 4th St, Kansas City, KS 66101, Phone: 913-371-3264
7. Kansas City Missouri Temple
Admire the architecture and walk peaceful grounds on a quiet retirement visit.
The Kansas City Missouri Temple in Kansas City, Missouri is the 137th temple in operation of the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s also the first temple of the Church to be constructed in the Greater Kansas City area. The Kansas City Missouri Temple features distinctive double towers majestically rising above Interstate 435 in the Northland area of Kansas City. Open Tuesday through Saturday, the inviting grounds of the Kansas City Missouri Temple are open to the general public and are filled with vibrant colored flowers and many trees, providing a peaceful place for guests.
7001 Searcy Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64119, Phone: 816-413-1430
8. Rosedale Memorial Arch
See the historic arch and enjoy city views on a quick sightseeing stop.
Modeled after Paris, France’s Arc de Triomphe, the Rosedale Memorial Arch of Kansas City, Kansas is a tribute to the soldiers who served the United States during World War I. The Arch was dedicated back in 1923 and was designed by John LeRoy Marshall, a resident of Rosedale. A monument was added later in 1993 in dedication to soldiers who served the country during War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Along with paying their respects for soldiers, visitors at the Rosedale Memorial Arch can also take in great skyline views of Kansas City, Missouri.
Park Dr, Kansas City, KS 66103, Phone: 913-573-8327
Where to Eat in Kansas City, KS
- Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Gas Station Location) – Famous for its ribs, burnt ends, and Z-Man sandwich—arguably the best BBQ in the nation.
- El Camino Real – Local favorite for authentic street tacos with fresh tortillas and carved al pastor pork.
- Slap’s BBQ – Another beloved KC BBQ joint known for smoky meats, tangy sauce, and generous platters.
If you are interested in local events:
- Kansas Speedway NASCAR Weekend (May & October) – Major race weekends bring fans from around the country.
- Fiesta Mexicana (July) – Celebrate Hispanic culture with music, food, and family activities at this lively community event.
- Grinter Sunflower Festival (Late August–Early September) – Walk through massive sunflower fields and capture the perfect photo.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Kansas City, Kansas:
- Kansas City, MO (10–15 min) – Explore museums, the Power & Light District, Union Station, and world-famous jazz and BBQ culture.
- Shawnee Mission Park (25 min) – One of the largest parks in the region with hiking, boating, a beach, and picnic areas.
- Lawrence, KS (45 min) – A hip college town with eclectic shops, galleries, and University of Kansas attractions.
- Bonner Springs (25 min) – Visit the National Agricultural Center or catch a concert at Azura Amphitheater.
- Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead (35 min, Overland Park) – Family favorite with animals, pony rides, gardens, and educational exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Is Kansas City, Kansas different from Kansas City, Missouri?
- Yes, while it shares the name, Kansas City, Kansas is distinct from Kansas City, Missouri and is a destination that shouldn’t be overlooked.
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What makes Kansas City, Kansas a great place to visit?
- The city offers things to do for all ages and is home to numerous family-friendly attractions.
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Are there outdoor attractions in Kansas City, Kansas?
- Yes! The city has naturally beautiful areas along its waterways, as well as natural trails and lush parks.
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What other attractions can visitors explore?
- Kansas City, Kansas also features historical sites, great restaurants, sports, and much more.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather and beautiful blooming gardens.
Hilton Garden Inn Kansas City – A well-rated stay with great amenities.
Visit the Kansas Speedway – Enjoy NASCAR races and other thrilling events.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, great for outdoor fun.
Great Wolf Lodge – A family-friendly stay with an indoor water park.
Explore Legends Outlets – Shop and dine at one of the city’s top attractions.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn colors.
Chateau Avalon Hotel – A unique and romantic boutique hotel.
Check out Wyandotte County Lake Park – Perfect for fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
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