What to do and see in Kansas City, Missouri (MO): The Best Historic Sites

July 7, 2021 Natalie Tallman

The home of swing and bebop for some, "The City of Fountains" to others, Kansas City is different things to different people. Music enthusiasts are drawn to the jazz clubs and old haunts of famous musicians such as Charlie Parker and Count Basie. With more fountains than Rome, there is ample opportunity for scenic strolling from fountain to fountain. Stop along the way to discover interesting neighborhoods and browse through eclectic shops. Families are particularly attracted to the city because of its child-friendly events and venues. Science City features hands-on exhibits including a mock television studio where kids can deliver a weather forecast, while the Zoo houses impressive African and Australian exhibits plus an IMAX Theater. The city's museums cover everything from the history of jazz music to a celebration of African American baseball players. Once a trading post for pioneers heading to the Western United States, today Kansas City is a burgeoning metropolis with activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.
Restaurants in Kansas City

1. Epperson House

5200 Cherry St, Kansas City, MO 64110-2428
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Epperson House

2. Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site

3616 Belleview Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111-3808 +1 816-931-5722 http://mostateparks.com/park/thomas-hart-benton-home-and-studio-state-historic-site
Excellent
73%
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4.5 based on 123 reviews

Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site

Thomas Hart Benton's life is present in both his home and his paintings, and both are preserved at Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site. A trip to the home and studio of the renowned painter, sculptor, lecturer and writer offers a glimpse into how the talented Benton lived and worked. Benton converted half of the carriage house into his art studio, which remains as he left it. Visitors can still see coffee cans full of paintbrushes, numerous paints, and a stretched canvas waiting to be transformed into another of his masterpieces. Thomas Hart Benton died in his studio in 1975.

Reviewed By dr2u - Leavenworth, United States

This is another of the great small sites that the Missouri State Park system preserves. It provides a look not only into the artist's life, but into life over the time the Bentons lived in this house. With everything preserved as they left it upon their deaths, you can get a really good look into the mid-20th century here. It seems like a unique house, but reflects a style present throughout the Roanoke neighborhood. It is well worth an hour to tour and then drive the area. There is a brochure available for a driving / walking tour of the area.

3. Union Station

30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108-2410 +1 816-460-2020 [email protected] http://www.unionstation.org/
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58%
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4.5 based on 2,480 reviews

Union Station

Reviewed By 975drewk - Des Peres, United States

We went to Union Station to see the Union Pacific's recently restored to operating condition Big Boy Locomotive. The plse is bustling with lots of stuff to do, some of it free! Pierpont's restaurant has a lively bar scene and an enormous selection of spirits. The modernist addition has theaters, an escape room, aroom for traveling exhibits as well as a hands on science museum. The model and toy train exhibit is simply amazing!

4. Kelly's Westport Inn

500 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111-3012 +1 816-561-5800 [email protected] http://www.kellyswestportinn.com
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4.5 based on 44 reviews

Kelly's Westport Inn

Family-owned and operated, Kelly's Westport Inn is a must see in Kansas City. With a diverse crowd, live music on weekends, a colorful history, weekday specials and always someone with a good story, Kelly's is an Irish pub like no other that is located in the heart of Westport in the oldest building in Kansas City!

5. Cave Spring Interpretive Center

8701 E Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64133-6351 +1 816-659-1945 [email protected] http://www.cavespring.org/
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3.5 based on 17 reviews

Cave Spring Interpretive Center

Cave Spring is a 36 acre historic site and nature park located in Southeast Kansas City in Jackson County. The area includes a nature center with changing exhibits, picnic area, hiking trails, wildlife pond habitat, butterfly garden, and small cave.

Reviewed By Paa1970 - Chicago, United States

Beautiful historic hike in the woods. Nice trails. Really enjoyed it. Pet friendly. Perfect get away for families or couples

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