Discover Kansas City
Traveling to Kansas City promises an immersive experience in Midwestern charm, vibrant culture, and rich history. Nestled at the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas rivers, this bustling metropolis welcomes visitors with a blend of modern attractions and timeless landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s renowned barbecue scene, legendary jazz heritage, or diverse arts and entertainment offerings, Kansas City offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, traveling to Kansas City promises an adventure filled with discovery, culture, and authentic Midwestern hospitality.
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Three Fun Facts About Kansas City
The City of Fountains
Kansas City is often referred to as “The City of Fountains” due to its abundance of beautiful and ornate fountains. In fact, the city boasts more fountains than any other city in the world except for Rome, Italy.
Barbecue Capital
Kansas City is renowned for its delicious barbecue cuisine, which features slow-smoked meats coated in rich, tangy sauces. The city is home to numerous barbecue restaurants, competitions, and festivals, earning it the title of “Barbecue Capital of the World.”
Home of Hallmark Cards
Hallmark Cards, one of the world’s largest greeting card companies, was founded in Kansas City in 1910 by Joyce Hall. The company’s headquarters are still located in the city, and Kansas City is often referred to as the “Heart of Hallmark.”
Must See Attractions
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Speciality Museums
This world-class museum features an extensive collection of art dating back thousands of years, including works by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Warhol.
Union Station
Community Gathering Place
Once a bustling train station, Union Station now serves as a cultural hub with attractions such as the Science City interactive science center, the Kansas City Rail Experience exhibit, and the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium.
National World War I Museum and Memorial
Speciality Museums
Located at the base of the Liberty Memorial, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the First World War through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Kansas City Zoo
Zoo
Home to over 1,700 animals from around the world, the Kansas City Zoo offers visitors the chance to see exotic wildlife up close, including polar bears, penguins, tigers, and chimpanzees.
Kansas City Power & Light District
Shopping District
This entertainment district features restaurants, bars, shops, and live music venues, making it a vibrant destination for dining, nightlife, and entertainment in downtown Kansas City.
Westport
Shopping and Entertainment
This historic district is known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, and vibrant nightlife scene.
Lakes Near Kansas City
Perry Lake
5441 West Lake Rd. Ozawkie, Kansas
Perry Lake, located northeast of Topeka, Kansas, is a picturesque reservoir nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Kansas countryside. Spanning over 11,000 acres, Perry Lake offers outdoor enthusiasts many recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping.
Distance from Kansas City: 62 miles
Activities: Kayaking, swimming, camping, paddle boarding
Truman Lake
28761 State Park Road Warsaw, Missouri
Truman Lake, located near Kansas City in west-central Missouri, is a sprawling reservoir renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. Boaters can explore the lake’s expansive waters, with secluded coves, wooded shorelines, and picturesque bluffs. Truman Lake State Park, encompassing over 1,400 acres along the lake’s shoreline, provides visitors with various amenities, including campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Distance from Kansas City: 106 miles
Activities: Boating, swimming, hiking, camping
La Cygne Lake
100 Marina Rd La Cygne, Kansas City
Just a short drive south of Kansas City, La Cygne Lake offers excellent fishing, swimming, boating, and family-fun activities. The lake’s secluded location and tranquil atmosphere make it a favorite spot for anglers seeking a peaceful fishing experience.
Distance from Kansas City: 64 miles
Activities: Fishing, swimming, boating
Fishing Destinations Near Kansas City
Smithville Lake
16311 County Road DD, Smithville, Missouri
Located just north of Kansas City, Smithville Lake is a popular fishing destination known for its abundance of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Anglers can fish from shore or launch a boat from one of the lake’s many ramps.
Fishing: Shoreline, boating, dock, kayaking
Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, white bass, walleye
Clinton Lake
798 N 1415 Rd. Lawrence, Kansas
Situated west of Kansas City near Lawrence, Kansas, Clinton Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish. The lake’s clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a favorite spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Fishing: Boating, shoreline, kayaking
Species: Bass, crappie, walleye, catfish
Hillsdale Lake
26001 W. 255th St. Paola, Kansas
Located southwest of Kansas City near Paola, Kansas, Hillsdale Lake is a hidden gem for fishing. There are ample opportunities to catch bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake’s quiet coves and scenic shoreline provide a peaceful setting for anglers to cast their lines.
Fishing: Shoreline, boating, kayaking
Species: Bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill
Top Hiking Trails Within One Hour of Kansas City
White Tail and Old Kate Loop
100198 E 12 St, Parkville, Missouri
White Tail and Old Kate Loop is a scenic hiking trail in Kansas City. It offers outdoor enthusiasts a tranquil escape into nature. This loop trail winds through lush woodlands and meadows, providing hikers with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 2.6 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 75 m
Time to Complete: One hour
Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop
Hidden Valley Park, 4029 Bellaire Ave, Kansas City, Missouri
Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop offers a serene escape into the heart of nature outside Kansas City, Missouri. This scenic hiking trail meanders through a pristine landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and tranquil meadows, allowing visitors to reconnect with the great outdoors.
Distance: 3.2 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 74 m
Time to Complete: 1.5 hours
Wudchuk Run and Rancho D Lux Loop
Wudchuk Run Trl, Kansas City, Missouri
Wudchuk Run and Rancho D Lux Loop offer outdoor enthusiasts an invigorating journey through the picturesque landscapes outside Kansas City, Missouri. This scenic hiking trail winds through lush woodlands, meandering along babbling brooks and tranquil streams.
Distance: 3.9 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 86 m
Time to Complete: Two hours
Best Golf Courses in Kansas City
The Country Club at Loch Lloyd
16750 S Country Club Dr, Village of Loch Lloyd, Missouri
Located just south of Kansas City, this private golf club features an 18-hole championship course designed by Tom Watson and Tom Weiskopf. With scenic views of the Missouri countryside and immaculate course conditions, Loch Lloyd offers a premier golfing experience for members and guests.
Holes: 18
Designer: Tom Watson, Tom Weiskopf
Shoal Creek Golf Course
8905 Shoal Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, Missouri
Open to the public, Shoal Creek Golf Course is a championship layout designed by Steve Wolfard. The course features lush fairways, challenging greens, and picturesque water hazards, providing a memorable golfing experience for players of all abilities.
Holes: 18
Designer: Steve Wolfard
Ironhorse Golf Club
15400 Mission Rd, Leawood, Kansas City, Missouri
In Leawood, Kansas, Ironhorse Golf Club is a public course known for its well-manicured fairways and challenging layout. Designed by Dr Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, the course features rolling terrain, mature trees, and panoramic views of the Kansas landscape.
Holes: 18
Designer: Dr. Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry
Tips on Renting a Vacation Property in Kansas City
Enjoy Your Stay
Once you’ve booked your vacation rental, relax and enjoy your time in Kansas City! Take advantage of the local attractions, dining options, and cultural experiences to make the most of your trip.
Read the Fine Print
Review the rental agreement and terms carefully before booking, including cancellation policies, house rules, and additional fees or charges. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions before finalizing your reservation.
Check for Amenities
Determine which amenities are essential for your stay, such as a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, parking, laundry facilities, or a pool. Ensure the rental property offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Choose the Right Location
Consider the areas of Kansas City you want to explore and choose a vacation rental in a convenient and safe location. Whether you prefer to stay in the bustling downtown area or a quieter neighborhood, make sure it suits your preferences and itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kansas City
When renting a vacation home with a pool in Kansas City, you’ll likely enjoy a private oasis to beat the heat. Many properties boast outdoor spaces with seating areas, gardens, and BBQ grills. Pools may be accompanied by lounge chairs and even poolside games for extra fun.
Absolutely! Kansas City offers a variety of vacation homes that welcome pets. These rentals often provide fenced yards and nearby parks for walks. Be sure to check with the host about pet fees or specific rules.
Staying in a Lake property with a pool may offer more extensive amenities, such as full homes with yards and multiple bedrooms. Airbnb options include diverse accommodation styles, from private rooms to entire homes, often with unique or artisanal touches.
When searching for downtown Kansas City vacation rentals on Lake, consider proximity to attractions and transportation. Look for listings with high ratings and detailed reviews to get a feel for the property’s best features like balconies with city views.