Kansas City

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kansas City's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the popular Succotash, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh coffee. After fueling up, take a stroll through the historic Westport district, admiring its charming brick buildings and lively atmosphere. Visit the Westport Historical Society to learn about the area's rich history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Afterward, make your way to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where you can explore impressive collections from various eras and cultures. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture park, perfect for a leisurely walk among art installations. For lunch, stop at the nearby Cafe Sebastienne for a delightful meal in a cozy setting.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head over to the Country Club Plaza, a Spanish-inspired shopping district, for some evening retail therapy. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants, such as The Capital Grille, known for its exquisite steaks and seafood. Wrap up your day with a scenic stroll along the plaza’s beautiful fountains, illuminated at night.

day 2
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Begin your day at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can immerse yourself in modern and contemporary works. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum's café, which offers delightful pastries and coffee. Spend some time appreciating the various exhibitions before heading out to your next destination.

afternoon
:

Next, visit the 18th and Vine District, home to the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Engage with the interactive exhibits that highlight Kansas City's rich jazz heritage and the legacy of African American baseball players. For lunch, savor some authentic Kansas City BBQ at Arthur Bryant's, a local favorite.

evening
:

In the evening, catch a live jazz performance at one of the renowned venues in the area, such as the Blue Room. Experience the electric atmosphere as talented musicians bring the sounds of Kansas City jazz to life. After the show, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling more of the city’s culinary delights.

day 3
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your morning with a peaceful walk through Loose Park, known for its picturesque rose garden and serene walking trails. Grab a coffee from a local café to enjoy as you take in the beautiful scenery. After your stroll, head over to the nearby Kansas City Botanical Gardens for a delightful exploration of themed gardens.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Missouri Botanical Garden, where you can discover diverse plant species and stunning landscapes. Take a guided tour or simply wander through the tranquil grounds, stopping to smell the flowers and relax by the ponds. Enjoy lunch at the on-site café, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

evening
:

As the day winds down, visit the Country Club Plaza again for dinner at a rooftop restaurant like the Brio Italian Grille, offering stunning views of the city skyline. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll back to the fountains, where you can enjoy the evening light show. End the night with a scoop of ice cream from a local creamery to sweeten your day.

day 4
Family Fun at Union Station
morning
:

Kick off your day at Union Station, a historic train station that has been transformed into a hub of entertainment. Explore the Science City, an interactive science center that is perfect for families of all ages. Enjoy a quick breakfast at one of the station's eateries before diving into the exhibits.

afternoon
:

After exploring Science City, take a ride on the streetcar to the nearby Crossroads Arts District, known for its vibrant galleries and shops. Spend some time visiting local artists' studios and picking up unique souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a casual spot like Grinders, famous for its pizza and relaxed vibe.

evening
:

In the evening, return to Union Station to catch a family-friendly show or movie at the 3D cinema. Grab dinner in the area at Jack Stack Barbecue, where you can indulge in some of the best barbecue the city has to offer. Conclude your day with a visit to the nearby Crown Center, where the kids can enjoy the fun fountains and shops.

day 5
A Day of Sports and Local Brews
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local diner like the Town Topic, known for its classic American fare and retro atmosphere. After breakfast, head to the Kauffman Stadium for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Royals' home, learning about the team's history and stadium features. This engaging experience will set the tone for a sports-themed day.

afternoon
:

After the tour, make your way to Arrowhead Stadium for a similar tour of the Kansas City Chiefs’ home, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement of the game. Spend lunchtime at a nearby food truck park, sampling various local cuisines from the diverse vendors. Take time to explore the surrounding park area, which often features live music and community events.

evening
:

In the evening, head to a local brewery like Boulevard Brewing Company for a tasting tour of their craft beers. Enjoy a casual dinner at the brewery's taproom, where you can pair your drinks with tasty pub fare. Wrap up your night at a local sports bar, watching a game and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

day 6
Discovering Local History
morning
:

Begin your journey through Kansas City's past with a visit to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, where you’ll gain insight into the global conflict's impact. Spend the morning exploring the exhibits and learning about Kansas City’s pivotal role during the war. Don't forget to take in the stunning views from the observation deck of the memorial.

afternoon
:

Next, head to the Historic Garment District, where you can visit the City Market, a vibrant hub of local vendors and fresh produce. Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries, sampling specialties from around the world. Stroll through the market, picking up unique handmade crafts and local delicacies.

evening
:

In the evening, visit the Kansas City Museum, where you can engage with interactive exhibits that highlight the city's history. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying some local cuisine that reflects the city’s diverse cultural influences. Conclude the evening with a leisurely walk along the Missouri Riverfront, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

day 7
Cultural Immersion in the Crossroads
morning
:

Start your day in the Crossroads Arts District, where you can grab breakfast at a local café like The Filling Station. After breakfast, explore the many art galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists, gaining insight into Kansas City’s vibrant arts scene. Keep an eye out for any pop-up events or artist talks happening in the area.

afternoon
:

After soaking in the art, visit the nearby Sprint Center for any ongoing exhibitions or events. Enjoy lunch at a popular local eatery, such as The Rieger, known for its farm-to-table menu and historic charm. Spend the afternoon exploring the district’s quirky shops and boutiques, each with its own unique flair.

evening
:

In the evening, attend a live performance at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of shows ranging from ballet to symphony concerts. Dine at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying some modern American dishes prepared with a local twist. Conclude your day by enjoying a nightcap at a nearby bar with a cozy atmosphere.

day 8
Exploring the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading out to explore the scenic trails at Swope Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Enjoy a peaceful morning walking or biking through the lush landscapes and taking in the natural beauty. Make sure to visit the park's beautiful lakes and gardens along the way.

afternoon
:

After some outdoor activity, visit the Kansas City Zoo, located within Swope Park, to see an impressive variety of animals from around the world. Spend your afternoon exploring the different exhibits and attending any animal feedings or shows that might be scheduled. Enjoy lunch at one of the zoo's cafes, offering kid-friendly options and local favorites.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, head back to the city for a relaxing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant like The Farmhouse, known for its commitment to local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby River Market area, enjoying the evening ambiance and perhaps stopping for dessert. End your day with a visit to a local brewery or distillery for a nightcap, immersing yourself in Kansas City's craft beverage scene.

day 9
Kansas City Nightlife Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with brunch at a trendy spot like the River Market, where you can sample local flavors and enjoy a bustling atmosphere. After brunch, stroll through the local farmer's market, exploring stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisan products. This vibrant setting is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs or snacks for later.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Power and Light District, where you can explore shops, entertainment venues, and local attractions. Take a break for lunch at a restaurant like Jack Stack BBQ, savoring the renowned Kansas City-style barbecue. After lunch, check out any live music or events happening in the area, as this district often hosts performances and festivals.

evening
:

In the evening, dive into the nightlife scene by visiting a few of the local bars and clubs in the Power and Light District. Enjoy live music performances, dance the night away, or simply relax with a cocktail at a rooftop bar with stunning city views. Cap off your experience by grabbing a late-night snack at a food truck or diner, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Kansas City.

Discover Kansas City

Read more in our Kansas City 2025 Travel Guide.

Kansas City Travel Guide