2 days ago
The three things you must include in every itinerary to Kansas City
State-straddling Kansas City (KC to friends) embraces several vibrant districts across Kansas and Missouri.
Clients seeking a culturally rich experience in the heart of the US should pay close attention to this authentic, affordable destination, with plenty to tempt food, music and sports fans.
In 2026 Kansas City will be in the spotlight as one of the American hosts of the Fifa World Cup 2026, with the area around the National WWI Museum and Memorial set to host the official Fan Festival.
In fact, those who follow US sports will be in their element whenever they visit, with American football's Kansas City Chiefs, winners of the 2023 and 2024 Superbowls, among big name local sides and the world's first stadium purpose-built for a professional women's team among landmarks.
With KC as part of their itinerary, visitors can also enjoy live performances in the Power & Light District, award-winning restaurants in the Crossroads Arts District, and open-air browsing in the historic River Market area. They might also track down the famous giant shuttlecocks outside The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, an acclaimed and sprawling institution offering free admission daily.
But if your clients are new to Kansas City they'll do well to start with its trio of traditional draws: jazz, barbecue and fountains.
Unesco-listed jazz
From the roaring '20s to the early '40s, jazz reigned supreme in Kansas City. The historic 12th Street was particularly known for its music clubs, which along with its gambling parlours and brothels, earned KC the nickname Paris of the Plains.
Today, live jazz endures with an impressive 40 dedicated clubs across the destination and KC is the United States' only designated Unesco City of Music.
Your clients may enjoy smooth keyboard performances at Green Lady Lounge or late-night jam sessions at the Mutual Musicians Foundation.
They can also learn about local legends including Charlie Parker and other icons such as Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald at the American Jazz Museum in the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District.
Barbecue capital
