30 Things to Do in Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri pulses with a unique rhythm, famous for its barbecue, jazz heritage, beautiful fountains, and friendly Midwestern vibe. While catching a Royals game or visiting world-class museums are popular choices, exploring the heart of KC doesn’t require spending big; there are countless fantastic free things to do in Kansas City, Missouri. Experiencing the city’s distinct neighborhoods, stunning parks, and rich cultural offerings is easily achievable on a budget.
This guide highlights 30 specific ways you can enjoy Kansas City’s attractions and atmosphere completely free of charge. From admiring impressive art collections and historic architecture to relaxing by fountains and exploring vibrant districts, you can craft a full and memorable itinerary. Get ready to discover the best of KC without opening your wallet.
Museums Art and Culture
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Explore vast collections spanning global cultures and thousands of years, from ancient artifacts to Impressionist masterpieces and contemporary works. General admission is always free to this world-class museum.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art: Discover thought-provoking modern and contemporary art exhibitions in a distinctive building near the Country Club Plaza. Admission is always free, offering access to engaging current art.
Kansas City Public Library (Central Branch): Explore the stunning architecture of the former First National Bank building downtown, especially the unique “Community Bookshelf” parking garage facade. Step inside to browse collections or check for free events and exhibits.
Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank: Learn about the US banking system and currency through interactive exhibits. See the cash processing facility and get a free souvenir bag of shredded money; admission is free.
Hallmark Visitors Center: Discover the history of the iconic Hallmark greeting card company through engaging exhibits and demonstrations located at Crown Center. Admission is always free.
National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (Exterior/Grounds): While museum entry has a fee, admire the beautiful mansion housing the museum on the UMKC campus and explore the surrounding neighborhood’s historic architecture.
Street Art Exploration (Crossroads Arts District): Wander the streets and alleys of the Crossroads Arts District, especially near 18th & Wyandotte. Discover dozens of vibrant murals painted by local and national artists.
First Fridays in the Crossroads: On the first Friday evening of each month, explore numerous art galleries, studios, and boutiques that open their doors to the public for free. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, art, and street performers.
Visit Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Exterior: Admire the stunning modern architecture of this iconic downtown performing arts center, designed by Moshe Safdie. Its shell-like forms overlooking the city are impressive from the outside.
Union Station Grand Hall: Step inside the magnificent Grand Hall of Kansas City’s historic Union Station. Marvel at the Beaux-Arts architecture, massive chandeliers, and ornate plasterwork in this beautifully restored space.
Parks Fountains and Outdoor Spaces
Loose Park Rose Garden: Stroll through the beautiful Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden within Loose Park, especially stunning during peak bloom (typically June and September). Admire thousands of rose bushes in this serene setting.
Jacob L. Loose Park Exploration: Beyond the Rose Garden, wander the expansive grounds of Loose Park, featuring walking paths, a pond, picnic areas, and historical markers from the Battle of Westport.
Explore the Country Club Plaza: Walk around Kansas City’s beautiful Spanish-inspired outdoor shopping district. Admire the architecture, intricate tilework, numerous fountains, and browse the upscale shop windows.
Fountain Hunting: Kansas City is known as the “City of Fountains.” Take a self-guided tour to discover some of the more than 200 registered fountains scattered throughout the city, like the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain or the Firefighters Fountain.
Mill Creek Park: Relax in this park adjacent to the Country Club Plaza, home to the famous J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain. Enjoy the green space and beautiful fountain centerpiece.
Penn Valley Park & Views: Explore this large park near downtown offering walking trails, the National World War I Museum and Memorial (exterior view), and excellent panoramic views of the downtown Kansas City skyline from the Scout statue overlook.
National World War I Museum and Memorial Grounds: Walk the impressive grounds surrounding the museum. Admire the Liberty Memorial tower and the architecture while enjoying sweeping city views from the memorial courtyard (museum entry costs).
Berkley Riverfront Park: Stroll or bike along the pathways lining the Missouri River just north of downtown. Enjoy views of the river, bridges, and the city skyline from this developing park area.
Swope Park Trails: Explore hiking and biking trails within Kansas City’s vast urban park (one of the largest in the US). Enjoy the wooded areas and natural scenery (Zoo and other attractions within park have fees).
Cliff Drive State Scenic Byway: Take a slow drive or walk/bike (check closure status) along this historic road winding through Kessler Park northeast of downtown. Enjoy views from limestone bluffs overlooking the industrial East Bottoms and Missouri River valley.
History Landmarks and Neighborhoods
18th & Vine Historic Jazz District: Explore the neighborhood considered the birthplace of Kansas City jazz. See the exteriors of the Gem Theater and American Jazz Museum, admire the statues, and soak up the rich musical heritage.
Westport Historic District Stroll: Wander the streets of one of Kansas City’s oldest neighborhoods, once a key outfitting post for westward trails. Browse the unique shop windows and enjoy the lively entertainment district atmosphere.
Walk Quality Hill Neighborhood: Explore the historic residential district west of downtown overlooking the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers. Admire the preserved Victorian architecture and city views.
Union Cemetery: Walk through Kansas City’s oldest public cemetery, established in 1857. Discover the resting places of early city pioneers and notable figures like artist George Caleb Bingham.
Santa Fe Trail Markers: Look for historical markers indicating the route of the historic Santa Fe Trail, which passed through the Kansas City area, particularly in areas like Westport and near the Missouri River.
Unique KC Experiences
Boulevard Brewing Company Tour (Limited Free Options): While full tours/tastings usually cost, Boulevard sometimes offers shorter, free overview tours or allows free access to parts of their visitor center/shop. Check their current tour offerings and policies.
The Roasterie Coffee Co. Factory Tour (Check Free Status): This local coffee company has previously offered free tours of their roasting facility featuring their unique airplane logo. Confirm current tour availability and if it remains free.
Browse River Market: Visit the historic City Market area on weekends. Browse the stalls of the large farmers market, antique shops, and ethnic groceries, enjoying the bustling atmosphere (purchases are optional).
Attend Free Events: Check local listings (Visit KC, Ink Magazine, library calendars). Many free concerts, festivals, movie nights in parks, and community events occur throughout the year, especially during warmer months.
Take Scenic Photos: Capture the beauty of KC’s fountains, skyline, architecture, parks, and street art. Documenting your explorations is a great way to create lasting free souvenirs.
