Trip Ideas: Museums, Art and Food KC style
Kansas City, known as the Heart of America, was founded in 1850. Here you’ll find an incredible variety of things to see and do, from art and culture to an alluring nightlife, historical attractions to great music venues, world-class museums to Kansas City barbecue. There is never a dull moment.
Morning
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Start the day with an organic, all-natural, sustainable and local breakfast at Blue Bird Bistro. Menu includes tofu scramble, Ciabatta French Toast and Winter Summit Benedict.
1700 Summit, 816- 221-7559
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Come get the most important meal of the day here where all ingredients are made fresh daily. From "eggs and things" to pancakes and waffles, it is all found on The Cook Shack Café's menu.
8950 Wornall, 816-333-0013
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Established in 1857, the 145-stall City Market is one of the largest farmers' markets in the
region. Merchants and vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, flowers,
specialty foods and other items from local farms as well as around the world.
20 E. 5th St., 816-842-1271
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Upon entrance to the museum are four giant badminton shuttlecocks on the lawn welcoming guests. This museum is dedicated to the enjoyment and understanding of the visual arts along with the varied cultures they represent.
4525 Oak St., 816-751-1ART
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This two-acre garden containing six fountains, more than 350 varieties of perennial plants along with annual beds is a part of the Kauffman Legacy Park in the heart of Kansas City. Powell Gardens, in partnership with the Kauffman Foundation, manages and maintains the garden. Tours are available to the public.
4800 Rockhill Road, 816-932-1200
Afternoon
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"Hi, may I help you?" is the trademark greeting heard at any Gates Bar-B-Q. Established in 1946, Gates has evolved into a restaurant of family tradition and a KC favorite.
3205 Main, 816-753-0828
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Here, salads are made from scratch. Guests can count on the Market kitchen to prepare an ever-changing selection of entrees, ready-to-heat or ready-to-eat. There is an array of choices from which to choose such as, tuna and white bean salad, Moraccan cous cous salad, ‘Bleu’ potato salad, market hummus, and famous market chicken salad.
10 East 13th St., 816-595-0050
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Designed in 1922 as the nation's first suburban shopping area, The Plaza is a 15-block district featuring Spanish architecture and European art. More than 150 stores and dozens of eateries make this an ideal dining and entertainment destination. Whether you are in the mood for shopping, eating or a mere stroll, the Country Club Plaza is the destination for you. The Country Club Plaza features stores such as Gap, Anthropologie, J.Crew, Guess and Urban Outfitters to name a few.
4745 Central St., 816-753-0100
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The steamboat Arabia was a side-wheel steamer built in 1853 that sank near Kansas City in 1856 with 200 tons of cargo bound for western towns. Recovered in 1988, the Arabia’s collection reveals details of frontier life. The museum tour explains the steamboat's history, sinking and excavation.
400 Grand Blvd., 816-471-4030
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The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is a unique experience offering a free, up-close look at the nation’s financial system in action. The Money Museum is available for walk-in visitors and self-guided tours.
1 Memorial Drive, 816-881-2683
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This circa 1820-1860 living history village and museum includes 25 original structures. Interpreters in period clothing portray life as it was in western Missouri during the mid-1800s.
8010 E. Park Road, Lee’s Summit, 816-503-4860
Evening
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Home to renowned chef Michael Smith, Extra Virgin is located in the historic Crossroads Art District in Kansas City. At Extra Virgin, guests have a wide range of Mediterranean tapas and a wine list with more than 300 selections.
1900 Main St., 816-842-2205
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Arthur Bryant, the legendary King of Ribs, opened this restaurant in 1930. It is most famous for a sauce that has even attracted former presidents, Harry Truman and Jimmy Carter.
1727 Brooklyn Ave., 816-231-1123
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Traditional soul food, quality customer service and an exciting atmosphere makes Peachtree a pleasant place to dine. Three locations from which to choose:
Peachtree Buffet, 6800 Eastwood Trafficway, Kansas City, 816-923-0099
Peachtree of Lees Summit,1672 N.W. Chipman Road, Lee's Summit, 816-554-8733
Peachtree of Kansas City, 31 E. 14th St., Kansas City, 816-886-9800
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Listen to some of the best local and national jazz talent at this 1930s inspired Street Hotel Club. The Blue Room showcases a mixture of musicians who have influenced "Kansas City Jazz."
1616 E.18th St., 816-474-8463
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Whether you’re searching for dining, entertainment or shopping, KC Power and Light District has it all. Located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, this nine-block zone links the Convention Center to the Sprint Arena providing excitement and exploration for any guest that enters.
KANSAS CITY POWER & LIGHT DISTRICT OFFICE 1100 Walnut, Suite 3000, 877-697-5347