Things to Do

Catch thrilling Sporting Kansas City soccer action at Children’s Mercy Park. Explore an actual stop on the Underground Railroad at the Quindaro Ruins, an active archaeological site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Cool off indoors at Great Wolf Lodge, another water park beloved by children young and old.

Test your pinball skills at 403 Club, a local hangout with at least 11 rotating games in prime condition—and monthly tournaments offering top prizes. Witness one of the best views of Downtown Kansas City at the Rosedale Memorial Arch, a structure inspired by the Arc de Triomphe and dedicated to local soldiers. Cap your day off with a visit to Chicago’s, a dive bar beloved by locals.

Where to Shop

Get your fill of affordable shopping at Legends Outlets in Village West. Only a short drive away stands Cabela’s, a 180,000-square foot outdoor equipment retail space that doubles as an attraction, thanks in part to a panorama of wild animals in their natural habitats, tropical aquariums and more.

Nearby, there’s the Moon Marble Company, a veritable wonderland of shapes and colors that welcomes visitors for marble-making demos and more.

Places to Eat

Count on sips and stargazing on the deck at The Mockingbird Lounge, a cocktail bar that welcomes guests with scratch-made food and a relaxed, feels-like-home atmosphere. Line up for savory, no-nonsense ‘cue at Slap’s BBQ, a smoke joint slinging competition-style meats straight from the counter.

Prefer old-school barbecue tastes? Look no further than Woodyard Bar-B-Que, a favorite for the likes of Anthony Bourdain and Andrew Zimmern. Then there’s Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, world-renowned for its Z-Man sandwich.

Meanwhile, El Pollo Rey dishes out wood-fired, south-of-the-border fare, El Camino Real specializes in homemade corn tortillas and Jarocho’s serves up high-end Mexican seafood. Need a pick-me-up? Head to Splitlog Coffee Co. for a pour over or signature latte.