Top 15 Landmarks and Icons in Kansas City

Plaza by Nightryder84 from Wikimedia Commons

Top 15 Landmarks and Icons in Kansas City

Kansas City’s landmarks are more than just a haphazard collection of aesthetically beautiful artwork; they include memorials, installations, murals, and sculptures. They are as much a part of Kansas City’s character as jazz, barbeque, or fountains—many of which are notable landmarks in and of themselves.

These sites serve as memorials to loved ones who have passed away, remembrances of people who helped define the Kansas identity, and emblems of the Kansas City spirit, each of which adds something special to the cultural diversity of the city.

Read on and discover the 15 iconic landmarks in Kansas City.

1.18th & Vine Historic District 

18thstreet by SakuraAvalon86 from Wikimedia Commons

In defiance of Prohibition’s restrictions, this affluent area would swing and groove every night to the smooth sounds of Charlie “Bird” Parker, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald at venues like the renowned Blue Room during the roaring ’20s.

With the opening of the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, the area has once again flourished after a lengthy reclamation process.

2. Westport Historic District 

Westport by Magicpiano from Wikimedia Commons

Westport Landing was established in the 1830s when waggon trains travelling along the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails paused for supplies and maintenance.

The Landing is now one of the centres of Kansas City’s social scene thanks to the trendy boutiques, specialised stores, hip bars, and upmarket restaurants that are housed in the ramshackle red-brick structures.

3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art by Wikimedia Commons

You can take in the artwork or learn about it at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art without having to pay a dime. Even some of the featured exhibitions are free, while others have little admission costs.

This big museum has about 33,500 works of art in its collection, from European to Japanese to African. A shared theme, like prints or antique art, may also be used to organise certain collections. Check the calendar before visiting the museum to see what events are coming up for kids, adults, and families throughout the year.

4. Country Club Plaza

Country Club by charvex from Wikimedia Commons

More than just an outdoor mall, this attraction is located in Kansas City. Countless restaurants, including options for breakfast and happy hour, can be found in Country Club Plaza along with all of your favourite shops, including upmarket establishments.

But the fact that it offers dining, shopping, and special events makes this plaza one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. There will always be a few fascinating events or activities on the schedule, no matter what day you look. A few of the highlights are the Plaza Live! Courtyard Concerts, the Annual Plaza Art Fair in September, and the Plaza Bunnies and Wonderland Animals at Easter.

5. Kansas City Zoo

KCMO Zoo by Nightryder84 from Wikimedia Commons

Like most zoos, the Kansas City Zoo is split into several distinct zones according to the species of animal or country of origin of the animals. Animals from all around the world are present, including those from Asia, Australia, and Africa. As you unwind, your children can burn off extra energy in the designated KidZone.

Here, you can go to the Discovery Barn, ride the Endangered Species Carousel, see sea lion training, and feed lorikeets. There are zookeeper talks, sea lion displays, and penguin feedings every day of the week. The zoo also holds unique events, like Jazzoo, which offers visitors the chance to enjoy fantastic music while simultaneously seeing the animals.

6. Truman Farm Home 

Truman Farm by Matt Turner from Wikimedia Commons

The centrepiece of the 5.25 acres (2.12 ha) remaining of the old 600-acre (240 ha) estate owned by Harry Truman’s maternal grandmother, Harriet Louisa Gregg, the farmhouse was constructed in 1894. From he was 22 years old until he was 33 years old, Truman worked on the farm from 1906 to 1917.

Harry’s “common sense” was acquired here, according to Truman’s mother Martha. After his grandmother passed away, her heirs disputed who should possess the property; as a result, Martha was ultimately evicted from the home in 1940 due to the associated costs.

As soon as he was able to, the President was able to reclaim a large portion of the property and saw it as a perfect location for his presidential library. The majority of the land was sold by Truman for development after this did not occur.

7. City Hall And Observation Deck 

In the city, City Hall is the third-tallest structure. The distance between the north door’s sidewalk and the building’s top is 443 feet. It commands the downtown skyline because it is on a hill. It was the highest structure in the state when it was initially constructed.

This city hall is still among the tallest in the nation. Although the structure, which took 22 months to build, is thought to have neo-classical or beaux arts architecture, art deco elements and decoration make it stand out.

This is clear from a variety of interior elements, such as the sculpted brass elevator doors that feature the four main forms of transportation that serve Kansas City;

8. Cave Spring 

Picnic Spot by Mick Garratt from Wikimedia Commons

Cave Springs in Raytown is one of the most distinctive walks close to Kansas City. This hiking area, also known as William M. Klein Park, includes a variety of activities that are entertaining for youngsters while also getting you and your little ones moving on a great family day! There are designated picnic spots dotted throughout Cave Spring, making it a wonderful location for a picnic as well.

The park is accessible from dawn till night, and there are numerous signs to direct you. If you’re looking for free activities in Kansas City, hiking is an interesting choice because it’s free.

9. National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial

National World War by CalendarGuy from Wikimedia Commons

One of the biggest collections of WWI artefacts in the world is housed in this museum, making it extremely exceptional. You may travel back in time and gain a thorough understanding of the battle through eyewitness accounts, movies, and interactive exhibits.

Following World War I, civic officials and residents of Kansas City established the Liberty Memorial Association, but just the memorial stood until 1998 when preparations for the museum were started. A variety of temporary exhibits are available in addition to a permanent display that features trenches that have been faithfully reconstructed, interactive tables, videos, and documents.

10. Union Station 

Union Station by Jimj wpg from Wikimedia Commons

No matter what kind of entertainment or museums you prefer, Kansas City’s Union Station, which opened in 1914, is one of the top destinations. The building is beautiful and old, and it houses Science City and the Extreme Screen where 3D movies may be seen.

National travelling exhibits might be seen here as well. Although entrance to Union Station is free, admission to Science City, the Planetarium, and the Xtreme Bugs Exhibit will likely cost money. Union Station may serve as a gateway into the city because there are still trains running there.

11. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Kauffman Center by Little Mountain 5 from Wikimedia Commons

Major regional ensembles, such as the Lyric Opera, Kansas City Ballet, and Kansas City Symphony, will perform at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

Additionally, there is a restaurant on-site so you may eat before a performance without worrying about making the trip from dinner to the concert, ballet, drama, or other events, like National Geographic Live.

12. The LEGOland Discovery Center

Children of all ages and their families enjoy visiting the numerous venues across the nation that make up the LEGOland Discovery Center, one of which is in Kansas City. Despite being primarily aimed at families with young children, LEGOland also hosts monthly Adult Nights, which can be entertaining for adults.

A factory tour, a 4D theatre, a Duplo Village, earthquake simulators, rides, and an abundance of Legos are all available.

12. Worlds of Fun

Worlds of Fun Haunt by Nightryder84 from Wikimedia Commons

Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun are two attractions that make up this amusement park in Kansas City. From the Viking Voyager to the ThunderHawk, there are rides for all ages and levels of experience.

Additionally, a train, several carousels, a Ferris wheel, and a river rafting experience are available. You have the option of staying in the theme park to make it simpler to enjoy your vacation without worrying about transportation.

13. Steamboat Arabia Museum

Arabia Stern by Prosekc from Wikimedia Commons

The Steamboat Arabia Museum is the best place to go if you really want to feel like you’ve travelled back in time. In 1856, a riverboat carrying an unknown cargo went down nearby Kansas City. Everything was in good condition when a team found it in 1988.

The antiques, which are currently on display in the museum, include tools, dinnerware, firearms, clothing, and other objects. Not only will you have the chance to see these treasures, but you’ll also be able to find out how they were discovered and restored. Since it opened 20 years ago, the museum has experienced constant growth in popularity.

14. Arrowhead stadium tour 

AIC by Ringerfan23 from Wikimedia Commons

Is football your favourite sport? If that’s the case, travel to Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. It serves as the football team’s home field. The stadium is a popular destination for people of all ages to attend sporting events. The Chiefs’ home games transform the stadium into a sea of red.

The option to roam around and explore different parts of Arrowhead Stadium is provided to guests. For guests of all ages to explore, they provide a guided tour. 90 minutes are spent on the tour. Visitors will visit places including the Press Box, the Locker Room, the Chiefs Hall of Honor, and the Scout Investments Club Level throughout the tour. From March to September, several tours with a guide are available.

15. Kansas City Power and Light Building

Power and LightBuilding by Hello2020121212 from Wikimedia Commons

The Kansas City Power and Light Building, also known as the “Power & Light Building” and the “KCP&L Building,” is a famous skyscraper situated in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri. The Art Deco Kansas City Power and Light Building have been a major feature of the Kansas City skyline since it was finished in 1931 as a method to promote new jobs Downtown.

Hoit, Price, and Barnes’ original plans called for a twin building to be coupled on the building’s immediate west side, but those plans were shelved when the Great Depression had a bigger impact than anticipated. As a result, the building’s west side is completely devoid of windows. The Power and Light Building, which was finished in 1931, was Missouri’s tallest building.

From history, music, and architecture to wonderful activities, hip lodging options, and even awesome transportation options, Kansas City has it all. So, if you get a chance to visit this beautiful city then remember to refer to this list.