39 Unique Things to Do in Kansas City (2023)
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Having grown up in KC, I’ve discovered many unique things to do in Kansas City over the years. It may not be as well-known as New York or Los Angeles, which makes Kansas City itself a bit of a hidden gem.
This small but major city in the middle of the country has more fountains than any city in the world after Rome. It’s also second only to Paris for having the most boulevards in the world. Here’s my list of local secrets in the Paris of the Plains.
KC’s Hidden Gems
Keep reading to learn about things to do in and around Kansas City that might be considered “not basic” or unordinary. These are not listed in any particular order, so feel free to read to the end for ideas!
1. Slurp Some Oysters at Earl’s Premier
Address: 651 E 59th St, Kansas City, MO 64110
Hours: 11 AM–10 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Cost: Free to enter
When you’re in a landlocked city like KC, oysters may not be the first choice that comes to mind for food. But these oysters are flown in directly from the Maine Oyster Company and have quickly become the talk of the town. Sure, they probably aren’t as fresh as they’d be in a coastal city, but they are certainly delicious.
Earl’s offers a wide selection of various seafood as well as American classics. The vibe at the restaurant is very welcoming, but you’ll still feel classy eating food that’s normally reserved for fancy spots. It’s difficult to find another dining experience like this one in KC, making it truly unique.
2. Find Out Where Milk Comes from at Shatto Milk Company
Address: 9406 MO-33, Osborn, MO 64474
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM; Closed on Sundays
Cost: Varies
This farm is a bit outside of the city, but well worth the drive. Tours of the dairy are offered Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30am by appointment only. On this tour, you can meet lots of animals, eat and drink lots of samples, and find out EXACTLY where milk comes from.
If you’re a fan of milk, cheese, or butter, it does not get much fresher than this. This dairy tour was once known for letting visitors milk the cows themselves, but word on the street says this is no longer allowed. If squeezing an utter is on your bucket list, we suggest calling the farm before booking your tour.
3. Take a Step Back in Time at the Arabia Steamboat Museum
Address: 400 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM
Cost: $6.50 for children; $16.50 for adults
In 1856, a steamboat by the name of Arabia was floating down the Missouri River when it sank just 6 miles west of Kansas City. After erosion changed the river’s course, the steamboat sat buried under a Kansas cornfield until it was dug up in 1988. The boat and its precious cargo were well preserved, and are now on full display in the Arabia Steamboat Museum.
This museum, located in the heart of KC’s historic City Market, is like taking a step back in time. Many of the artifacts from the boat no longer exist in today’s world, and are a must-see for any American history buff. It’s no surprise Arabia Steamboat was voted “Favorite Hidden Gem” by Visit KC.
4. Relax on the Kansas City Public Library Rooftop Terrace
Address: 14 West 10th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
Hours: Monday–Saturday from 9 AM–9 PM; Sunday from 1 PM–5 PM
Cost: Free
While most Kansas Citians are familiar with the historic Central Library downtown, many are surprised to learn about the comfortable terrace located on the roof. The public rooftop contains tented tables, chairs, and wooden benches. You can also play a life-sized game of chess.
And don’t forget to check out the annual “Off the Wall” movie series in the summer, where the skyline cinema hosts free movie screenings. Every year has a different theme. In 2022, the theme was “Cage Match” and only showed movies starring Nicolas Cage.
5. Relive History at the Missouri Town Living History Museum
Address: 8010 E Park Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064
Hours: 9 AM–4:30 PM; Closed on Mondays
Cost: $8 for Adults; $4 for Children
If you’d like to know what living in small-town Missouri was like on the eve of the Civil War, then this is the attraction for you. The village is full of over 25 buildings dating between 1822 and 1860. There are also living interpreters walking around to really make you feel like you’re in a different century.
Even if history isn’t your thing, the 30 acres of grassy rolling hills are quite picturesque. There’s also livestock and plenty of flowers for a lovely outdoor experience.
6. Ball Out at The College Basketball Experience
Address: 1401 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Hours: 10 AM-6 PM Thursday-Sunday
Cost: $18 for Adults; $16 for Youth
Located in the heart of the Power & Light District, this exhibit is a must for college basketball fans. The word “experience” is key here, as it’s much more interactive than a typical museum. There are games found all over the place; you will shoot a lot of basketballs here.
Fun for the whole family, there are levels of activities for all ages, even small children. You can also chill out at the ESPNU desk or visit one of the numerous educational kiosks. As college basketball coach Tubby Smith put it, “It’s a spectacular showplace for college basketball.”
7. Feel Young Again at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Address: 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112
Hours: 10 AM–4 PM; Closed on Tuesdays
Cost: $10 for Adults; $5 for Children
People may be surprised at how many national museums are found in Kansas City, and this one is extra interesting. While this museum is a bit of a hidden gem, every visitor seems to love it. It’s a great change of pace for those who don’t want to see another art museum.
The museum spans seemingly endless amounts of rooms, and you could spend several hours here if you really wanted to. Visitors from every generation will be overcome with nostalgia as you can find toys from the 1990s all the way back to the early 1800s. Good luck leaving without buying something from the gift shop.
8. Sip Wine at the Wandering Vine in Caenen Castle
Address: 12401 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS 66216
Hours: 4 PM–9 PM
Price: $30-$56 for a dinner entree
In Shawnee, there’s a castle that was originally built by a Belgian immigrant in 1907. He wanted to model the castle after the ones he’d grown up seeing in Europe. Now, the castle houses Wandering Vine, and Old West-themed restaurant.
Wandering Vibe is one of the most romantic atmospheres in the metro for a dinner date, but can also be a fun spot for a group brunch. Wine lovers will love the wine flights offered here, of both the red and white varieties. It’s hard not to have a good time when you’re literally hanging out inside a castle.
9. Escape the City in Cave Spring Park
Address: 8701 E Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64133
Hours: 9 AM–6 PM
Cost: Free
While this park tends to get overshadowed by nearby Swope Park, the “little forest in the city” is certainly worth at least a pit stop. Cave Spring Park is sprinkled with things not typically found in KC parks, like caves, waterfalls, and ruins from old cabins. There’s also a large, intricate tree that locals simply refer to as, “The Tree.”
There are plenty of easy hiking trails that wind through the park, allowing visitors to quickly find all the sights. For wildlife lovers, deer and lizards are commonly seen throughout the park. For the kids, there’s a well-maintained and clean play area.
10. Uncover Treasures at Super Flea
Address: 6200 St John Ave, Kansas City, MO 64123
Hours: 8:30 AM–4 PM on Saturdays and Sundays
Cost: Free to enter
Once you see the huge building that houses Super Flea, you will have no doubt that this is Kansas City’s largest flea market. There are so many rooms with vendors selling nick-nacks that you could spend hours or even days here. To keep you fed throughout your long shopping day, there are multiple food joints located in the building
If you like hunting for treasures and unique gifts, you will surely find something you love in these shops. Just being in Super Flea and people watching is an experience in itself.
11. Taste Some Premium Spirits on the J. Rieger & Co. Distillery Tour
Address: 2700 Guinotte Ave. Kansas City, MO 64120
Hours: 12 PM-7 PM
Cost: $20 for Adults over 21; $10 for under 21
Kansas City once boasted “the wettest block in the world” up until the prohibition era. You can hear all about the city’s fascinating history with liquor on this distillery tour. You’ll also get to explore the production floor, learn about the distilling process, and see the barrel house where whiskey is stored for aging.
And most importantly, the tour concludes with tastings of vodka, gin, whiskey, and caffe amaro. Everything is led by a knowledgeable guide. Tours tend to sell out, so advanced booking is strongly encouraged.
12. Find the Waterfalls in Independence
Address: 4501 S Bass Pro Dr, Independence, MO 64055
Hours: 9 AM–7 PM
Cost: Free
That’s right, you can take a selfie in front of a waterfall in the great state of Missouri. The aptly named Waterfall Park in Independence showcases multiple cascades along a paved trail.
The trail loops around a small lake and takes about 20 minutes to complete. You can find more details about the simple hike on AllTrails. If you’d like to hang out for a picnic, the park also offers a shelter with grills, electricity, and restrooms.
13. Walk Through History at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Address: 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM; Closed on Mondays
Cost: $10 for Adults; $6 for Children
This museum is one of the true gems in Kansas City. People in this town love baseball, and this exhibition does a great job of capturing the era that paved the way for today’s modern game. There are some emotional pieces, but an overall fun vibe as you walk through the storied history of the Negro Leagues.
The museum houses a mini movie theater along with posters, props, and other artifacts from the early 1900s. My favorite part of the museum is the replica baseball field with life-size statues of legendary players who highlighted the league. The Negro Leagues Museum is an excellent opportunity to learn about how far baseball has come.
14. Get a Whiff of the Zum Factory
Address: 3125 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM; Closed on Mondays
Cost: Free to enter
There are very few things that can be recognized by their scent alone, but Zum products fit that description. Many people are familiar with Zum products by Indigo Wild, but not many people know that the company is headquartered in Kansas City. The brand has become famous for its colorful goat’s milk soaps.
You can visit the Zum Factory Store where you can find everything you could ever need for fresh-smelling body, skin, and home care. This is one of the only places to shop for exclusives like Zum Lab products. As soon as you arrive, the smell is overwhelming, even from outside of the factory.
15. Hang with Animals at Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center
Address: 909 North, KS-7, Olathe, KS 66061
Hours: 9 AM–4:30 PM
Cost: Free, but donations are accepted.
I used to love coming to Ernie Miller as a kid. This nature park is home to 116 acres of diverse habitats, including meadows, forests, and tallgrass prairies. The park also features 3 miles of nature trails for simple but beautiful hiking.
The activities here are seemingly endless, from biking to boating to birding and yoga. The nature center exhibits are a great way to get up close and personal with rescued animals like owls and reptiles. The park is named for Ernest Miller, who was once known as “Mr. Olathe” for the positive impact he made on the local community.
16. Hear All the Fun Facts at Hallmark Visitor Center
Address: 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: 9:30 AM–4 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Cost: Free
Did you know that Hallmark was started by a teenager with two shoeboxes full of greeting cards? Or that people believe the Hallmark company had a hand in the invention of Valentine’s Day? There are tons of fun facts like these that you’ll learn at the Hallmark Visitors Center.
The creative spirit of this iconic brand can be felt throughout several interactive displays and exhibits, such as the yearly Christmas trees and bow machine. You can also learn about the rich history of other brands like Crayola and Hallmark Media. There’s plenty to do around Crown Center thanks to one of the biggest names to ever come out of Kansas City.
17. See Green at the Money Museum
Address: 1 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64198
Hours: 9:30 AM–4 PM; Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Cost: Free
The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, which processes millions of dollars in currency each day, has a Money Museum where regular people can come in and see how things are done. The somewhat ironic aspect of this museum is that it’s free. Reservations are not required for this self-guided tour, but you will be subject to airport-style screening.
There are a lot of unique exhibits in the museum, one of the most popular being the real gold bar. Known as the only gold bar in Kansas City, all 27 pounds of gold are on full display. To really get a feel for how much the gold bar weighs, it’s held in a special case that actually allows visitors to grab and lift the bar.
18. Enjoy the Tranquility of Kauffman Legacy Park
Address: 4800 Rockhill Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110
Hours: 8 AM–7 PM
Cost: Free
You’ll find a lot of things in Kansas City named after Ewing and Muriel Kauffman. The philanthropic couple contributed a lot to the city, including bringing Major League Baseball to KC by establishing the Royals back in the 1960s. Located just off the Plaza, Kauffman Legacy Park is one of the most well-manicured landscapes in the area.
The highlight of the park is the Memorial Garden, which was inspired by the couple’s travels to Europe. The space is lined with fountains, brick walkways, and unique flora that’s updated at least four times a year. Other sights within the park include Legacy Lake and the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center.
19. Find Something Interesting at Weird Stuff Antiques
Address: 1703 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64101
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday from 11 AM–2 PM; Friday–Sunday from 11 AM–5 PM; Closed on Mondays
Cost: Free to enter
You may never again come across an antique store quite like this one. Located in the up-and-coming West Bottoms neighborhood, Weird Stuff sells items that really live up to the name. To get a feel for what you’ll find here, some of the artifacts are listed in the “weird stuff” section of their website.
The products here are carefully curated and usually more rare than what you’ll find at a typical flea market. Antique instruments, signs, furnishings, and more are all for sale here. There’s even a “Motors” section that deals with super old cars, motorcycles, and boats.
20. Immerse Yourself in the Creativity of Art Alley
Address: Between 17th and 18th Street near Locust and Cherry
Hours: Anytime
Cost: Free
Appropriately located in the Crossroads Arts District, Art Alley serves as a canvas for artists in the city. Colorful murals and street art bring the brick walls to life. What was once a less-than-appealing series of nooks and crannies is now an entertaining place for a stroll.
The beauty of Art Alley is that you can see different imagery every time you visit, as the collective is regularly updated. Sometimes with permission of the building owners, and sometimes without, artists will paint over older pieces and replace them with new ones. Whether it be messages for awareness, pop culture displays, or something unexpected, walking through this alley is always a fun experience.
21. Get a Taste of Greece at Papu’s Cafe
Address: 604 W 75th St, Kansas City, MO 64114
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Cost: $8.99 for a Gyro or Shawarma Sandwich
I’m not here to tell you why some of KC’s best restaurants are found in gas stations, but I am here to say that Papu’s is some of the most delicious Mediterranean food you’ll ever eat. Papu’s has food so authentic that you just might forget you got it from a Shell in the Waldo neighborhood. The relatively inexpensive plates are a terrific bang for your buck.
If you hadn’t already guessed, this is a very casual, local joint. The gyro seems to be the collective favorite thing to order for people around town. There are also plenty of vegetarian options such as falafel and hummus.
22. See the Workhouse Castle
Address: 2001 Vine St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
A lesser-known building in the historic 18th and Vine District, this castle will make you feel like you’ve been teleported to medieval Europe. The castle was originally constructed as a jail back in 1897, and served many different purposes until it was finally abandoned in 1972. While there’s still no real use for it today, it remains one of the most unique pieces of architecture in the city.
At one time it was said to be “the best building Kansas City has.” Although it now mostly attracts graffiti artists, it is a truly marvelous design. With its convenient location in the Jazz District, there’s no reason not to at least stop by for a look.
23. Guide Yourself on the Battle of Westport Self-Driving Tour
Address: Starts on Westport Road and Pennsylvania Avenue
Hours: Anytime
Cost: Free
This tour will take you to each of the 25 Battle of Westport markers located around the metro area. These historic sites are dedicated to the largest Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi. Detailed instructions, information, and a map of the tour can be found on this website.
The 32-mile tour starts in the heart of the Westport District, makes a stop at the Battle of Westport Visitor Center, and ends all the way down at 96th and Wornall. If you don’t feel like making the drive yourself, don’t worry. You can use the website to request a guided tour.
24. Rent a Classic Car at RND
Address: Delivery within a 20-mile radius of downtown Kansas City
Hours: Anytime
Cost: $79-$360 per day
Picture yourself rolling through downtown KC in a 1969 Ford Mustang or the Plaza in a classic Corvette. RND is perfect for those who dream of driving of classic car without the hassles of ownership. These guys carry a rotating inventory of American muscle cars, European classics, and other exotic vehicles.
The price will vary depending on which vehicle you decide to go with. They will even deliver the car to you in a 1956 Cabover for an additional fee. No matter what you choose to rent from RND, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
25. Wander through Powell Gardens
Address: 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM (Varies by season)
Cost: $12 for Adults; $5 for Youth
Despite being a decent drive from city limits, Powell Gardens has been dubbed Kansas City’s botanical garden. With over 175 acres of beauty to explore, this land is well worth the trip. Many of the plants in the garden are regionally native, so it really captures the spirit of the Midwest.
Powell Gardens is divided into several different themes, including favorites such as the Fountain Garden and Heartland Harvest Garden, which is full of fruit and vegetable plants. There are fun events happening at Powell Gardens nearly every week. Frequently checking the website is recommended to stay up to date on what’s going on.
26. Paint the Picture at the Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site
Address: 3616 Belleview Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111
Hours: 10 AM–4 PM; Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Cost: Free
Thomas Hart Benton was one of the most famous artists to come from the Kansas City area. Known for being at the forefront of the Regionalist art movement, Benton died in this studio in 1975. The home furnishings and studio remain exactly how he left them, down to the paints and paintbrushes he was using.
This historic site gives visitors a glimpse into how Benton lived as he worked on his masterpieces. Although not overly large, the house has a fortress-like appearance owing to its limestone build and elevation above street level. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
27. Visit the Country’s Best Bakery at Yoli Tortilleria
Address: 1668 Jefferson St #100, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: 10 AM–4 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Cost: Varies
This unique bakery in the Westside neighborhood is known for making the freshest corn and flour tortillas around. Yoli Tortilleria caught national attention when it won the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bakery, beating out nominees from Miami, Dallas, and New Orleans. Since these awards are known as the Oscars of the food world, this was a pretty big deal.
What makes Yoli’s tortillas special is the way they’re made. Inspired by the owner’s upbringing in Sonora, Mexico, they use an ancient method of preparing corn known as nixtamalization. This ensures every tortilla is created under the highest standards of quality, ethics, and taste.
28. Have an Atomic Time at the Truman Presidential Library & Museum
Address: 500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Cost: $12 for Adults; $5 for Youth
This site was established to preserve the papers, books, and other historical materials relating to former President Harry S. Truman and to make them available to the people in a place suitable for research. Packed with interesting exhibits, the Truman Presidential Library & Museum is sure to be an educational experience for the entire family.
If there’s anywhere in the world to learn about a farm boy from Missouri’s extraordinary journey of becoming president of the United States, this would be the place to do it. The site also acts as the final resting place for Harry S. Truman and his family.
29. Sip the Finest Cocktails at Drastic Measures
Address: 5817 Nieman Rd, Shawnee, KS 66203
Hours: 4 PM–12 AM
Cost: $13 Per Drink
This cocktail bar was one of five in the United States to be nominated for last year’s James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar. It may be hard to believe that a local spot in Shawnee could be nominated for such a prestigious award, but you’ll understand why after paying Drastic Measures a visit. The care and creativity that goes into every drink is truly amazing.
There are several quirks to Drastic Measures that separate it from your average cocktail bar. Since the bar does not accept reservations, color-changing chandeliers help alert guests when seating becomes available. Drastic Measures also remains committed to its policy of “No Wine, No Beer, Just Cocktails.”
30. Bring the Kids to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Address: 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: 10 AM–4 PM
Cost: $19.99 per person
Even if you’re a grown adult, it’s quite the spectacle to see some of the pieces made out of LEGO here. The masterminds behind this discovery center have constructed basically all of Kansas City out of the classic toy bricks. There are several other location-specific works of art such as The Wizard of Oz collection and the Chiefs and Royals stadiums.
The kids can spend hours in this indoor entertainment center, which is located in the heart of Crown Center. The attraction includes rides, a soft play area, and a 4D cinema. There’s also plenty of space for kids to simply build things out of LEGO bricks.
31. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Address: 8909 W 179th St, Overland Park, KS 66013
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Cost: $5 for Adults; $2 for Youth
The Overland Park Arboretum offers a peaceful escape from life in suburbia. With nearly six miles of hiking trails and 180 acres of open prairie, this is the perfect place to grab some green space in OP. Nature lovers can enjoy over 1,700 species of plants as they mosey through the gardens.
The well-marked trails here are either paved or mulched, and there’s plenty of shade thanks to all the trees. A local favorite is the butterfly sanctuary, where you can see and feel hundreds if not thousands of friendly butterflies.
32. Win Big at a Riverboat Casino
Address: 1800 E Front St, Kansas City, MO 64120
Hours: Open 24 hours
Cost: Hopefully not too much
When Missouri gambling laws prohibited casinos from being built on land, but didn’t say anything about water, several casinos were constructed in boats along the Missouri River. This loophole is not something fabricated by the Netflix show Ozark, it really was a way for casinos to operate within the old Missouri law. Nowadays, it seems like the laws have loosened a bit as many of the casinos along the river no longer reside in boats.
However, Bally’s Casino has kept the tradition alive. Formerly Isle of Capri Kansas City, part of this casino is still thriving in a huge, stationary riverboat. Bally’s recently expanded beyond just the boat, bringing a world-class gaming property to the riverfront.
33. Jam Out at Knuckleheads Saloon
Address: 2715 Rochester Ave, Kansas City, MO 64120
Hours: 7 PM–12 AM; Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Cost: $5–$30
If you need a live music experience unlike any other in town, there’s always something going on at Knuckleheads. The venue serves burgers, beer, and performances on four different stages. The most legendary of the four is the Outdoor Stage, which has been known to bring in some pretty big names.
The largest indoor venue is Knuckleheads Garage, which has a funky vibe and seats up to 600 people. The Saloon Stage is the second largest indoor stage, which will make you feel like you’re in a Nashville honky tonk. And finally, there’s the Gospel Lounge, an intimate stage that seats up to 75 patrons.
34. Check Out the Rooftop Park above Cosentino’s Market
Address: 1220 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO
Hours: Daylight
Cost: Free
Located right on Main Street in a busy area of downtown, this park is hidden in plain sight. To find it, simply head to the top of the parking garage next to Cosentino’s Market. Once at the top, you’ll see two grassy lawns dotted with shade trees, park benches, and potted plants.
If the Power & Light District gets too loud for you, this is the perfect place to chill out. It also gives a new perspective and skyline views as you look down at the bustling city with plenty of room to breathe.
35. Hang Out at the Berkley Riverfront
Address: 1298 River Front Dr, Kansas City, MO 64120
Hours: Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
There are many cities in the US, like Austin for example, where tons of recreation activities revolve around the river. For whatever reason, Kansas City has never been like this. However, the Berkley Riverfront is one of the most up-and-coming parts of the city, so get out there and enjoy it while it’s still low-key.
The beautiful riverfront is full of fun ways to take in the great outdoors, such as the Heritage Trail, fitness courts, and sand volleyball. The east side of the riverfront is the future home of the KC Current Stadium, which will be the first stadium in the world purpose-built for a women’s professional sports team. This, along with new apartments and entertainment options, is going to make the Berkley Riverfront KC’s latest hot spot in the near future.
36. Play Pickleball (or Don’t) at SERV
Address: 9051 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212
Hours: 7 AM–10 PM
Cost: $20–$40 per Pickleball Court
SERV has become the premier local spot for pickleball in the KC area, with 6 indoor pickleball courts so you can play no matter the weather and 2 outdoor courts with riser seating. If pickleball isn’t your thing, no worries. The huge outdoor space at SERV is full of various yard games.
For those who enjoy more leisurely activities, there are plenty of bars and TVs to keep you entertained. You can also find food stalls with everything from pizza to tacos to vegan options. On the weekends, SERV is the perfect place for brunch with friends.
37. Dance the Night Away at Nighthawk
Address: 1228 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64105
Hours: 7 PM–2 AM; Closed Sunday–Tuesday
Cost: No Cover
This basement bar located under Hotel Kansas City has quickly emerged as a favorite for locals and out-of-towners alike. During the earlier evening hours, you can feast upon a dinner of comfort food, play a game of pool, and watch some live sports. Later at night, you can hit the dancefloor when a live band or DJ takes the stage.
Nighthawk has a one-of-a-kind vibe that can be described as alternative, speakeasy, and an overall good time. The people in charge here appreciate all genres of music and provide patrons with a unique listening experience through custom-engineered, vintage Altec A5 speakers. You can always check out the website to find out who’s performing on any given night.
38. See the City from a New Perspective at the City Hall Observation Deck
Address: 414 E 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64106
Hours: 8 AM-4 PM on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday
Cost: Free
City Hall is Kansas City’s third-tallest skyscraper. As you can imagine, the views from the top of the building are spectacular.
Visiting the observation deck is free, but reservations are required. Since you will be entering a government building, you will go through metal detectors and adults need to show a photo ID. Make reservations to visit the Observation Deck here.
39. Visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial
Address: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM; Closed on Mondays
Cost: $18 for Adults; $10 for Youth
Kansas City has a surprising amount of national museums, and the best of all of them might be the World War I museum. History aficionados will love the vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and documents, that tell the story of the war from various perspectives. The exhibits are engaging, interactive, and include life-sized trenches that bring the history to life.
One standout attraction at the museum is the Liberty Memorial Tower, a soaring structure that reaches a height of 217 feet, offering breathtaking vistas of the nearby landscape. Additionally, within the tower lies the museum’s expansive research library, housing a wealth of knowledge about the war and its global repercussions.
Unique Places To Stay In Kansas City, Missouri
📍Downtown Option: 21c Museum Hotel – This hotel puts you in quick proximity to both Power & Light and the River Market. It’s a museum, a restaurant, and a place to stay all in one.
📍 Plaza Option: The Fontaine – One of my favorite places to stay when I’m back in town. The location right on the Plaza is perfect. The rooftop pool and bar will make you actually want to spend time in this hotel, like a mini resort.
📍Crossroads Option: Crossroads Hotel – This hotel has become among the trendiest in town. Crossroads Hotel goes along with the theme of the district by showcasing local art and artists. The chic property also hosts an on-site Italian restaurant that’s worthy of a reservation.
👉 Click Here to Book Your Stay with Booking.com!
Conclusion: Unique Things to do in Kansas City
I hope you enjoyed this list of activities in Kansas City that are a bit out of the ordinary. There will always be interesting things do to around the city as it continues to grow, so get out there and see it for yourself!