Destination Spotlight - Kansas City, MO

Weather

Kansas City experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summers can reach highs in the 90s°F (32-35°C), while winters often dip below freezing, with occasional snow. Spring and fall offer milder, more comfortable temperatures, making them the best seasons to visit.

Transportation

Transportation in the city is easy, with options like the KC Streetcar, which offers free rides through downtown, as well as buses, ride-shares, and easy highway access for drivers.

Lodging

For lodging, downtown offers a variety of options, from luxury hotels like the Hotel Kansas City and The Fontaine to more budget-friendly spots, with easy access to the city's major attractions.

Attractions

Family Fun at Union Station
Union Station, a stunning Beaux-Arts building that opened in 1914, is more than just a historic landmark—it’s a hub of activity for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights for families is Science City, an award-winning science center filled with interactive exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities. Kids and adults alike can explore areas dedicated to robotics, space, engineering, and more, all designed to spark curiosity and a love for science. While at Union Station, visitors can also catch a show at the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium or visit rotating exhibits and events that add to the rich variety of experiences the station offers.

SEA LIFE: An Underwater Adventure
For a unique and immersive experience, Kansas City is home to SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, located in the bustling Crown Center district. This interactive aquarium brings the wonders of the ocean to the Midwest, offering visitors the chance to explore underwater worlds and come face-to-face with a diverse array of marine life. From playful seahorses to graceful stingrays, SEA LIFE captivates visitors with its 260,000-gallon ocean tunnel, where sharks, turtles, and tropical fish swim overhead. It's an educational and awe-inspiring experience for families, with interactive rock pools and engaging talks from expert marine biologists.

The Spirit of Union Station
Union Station itself is a masterpiece of early 20th-century architecture and an important piece of Kansas City’s history. As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, Union Station has been beautifully restored and now serves as a cultural hub with a variety of restaurants, exhibitions, and theaters. Beyond Science City, visitors can enjoy the Model Railroad Experience, showcasing an elaborate setup of miniature trains, and stroll through the Grand Hall, which evokes the grandeur of the station’s heyday with its 95-foot ceiling and stunning chandeliers.

A Thriving Cultural Scene
Kansas City is not just about history and family attractions—it has a thriving cultural scene that continues to grow. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is world-renowned for its impressive collection of over 35,000 works, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Outside, the museum’s expansive Sculpture Park offers a peaceful setting, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. For music lovers, Kansas City’s jazz roots run deep. The American Jazz Museum, located in the historic 18th & Vine district, celebrates the city’s rich musical heritage with exhibits, live performances, and a deep dive into the legends of jazz like Charlie Parker and Count Basie.

Culinary Delights

No visit to Kansas City would be complete without experiencing its legendary food scene. Kansas City is synonymous with barbecue, and there’s no shortage of spots to indulge in slow-smoked meats slathered in tangy, sweet sauces. Iconic joints like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue have been drawing locals and tourists alike for years. Beyond barbecue, Kansas City’s culinary landscape is diverse, featuring everything from farm-to-table dining to global cuisine, making it a foodie destination in its own right.