Barbecue, Jazz and Local Landmarks

A visit to Kansas City would be incomplete without enjoying some of Kansas City’s sensational signatures and the landmarks that celebrate them.

It's been said that jazz was born in New Orleans, but it grew up in Kansas City. There’s no better place to experience Kansas City jazz and celebrate our finest musicians than at 18th & Vine with a visit to the American Jazz Museum and a live concert at the Gem or the Blue Room. Then, head next door and visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, where you’ll discover the history of American baseball from the African American perspective, beginning in 1863, and get to know many famous local baseball stars. Kids and adults alike will love measuring up against the life-size bronze statues of players in mid-game on the baseball diamond. 

Kansas City knows barbecue, and that means sweet, tangy sauce dripping from ribs and burnt ends with a side of slaw and pit beans. Every local has a favorite, from Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Gate’s to a neighborhood barbecue joint. Visitors enjoy tasting them all and finding their personal favorite.

The Country Club Plaza, modeled after the architecture of Seville, Spain, is one of Kansas City’s most recognized landmarks and home to many of the city’s most beautiful fountains, best restaurants and shops—and an ideal backdrop for family photos.

Last year, Union Station Kansas City celebrated its 100th anniversary. Currently home to Science City, the Gottlieb Planetarium, Amtrak and local shops and restaurants, the station remains a premier visitor attraction.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is the newest crown jewel in Kansas City’s skyline, and this fall visitors will delight in live shows from the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera, Kansas City Symphony and touring productions.

Head west to the Legends Outlets for a day of shopping and local attractions. The shopping center features statues commemorating local celebrities. Nearby, adrenaline junkies love to cheer for their favorite drivers as the Kansas Speedway hosts NASCAR races. The speedway offers many experiences adding to the entertainment for families, whether you purchase a pit pass or scanners to track cars throughout the race.