Why Kansas City is an Essential Trip in 2023
Kansas City's Midwestern momentum is stronger than ever. The Heart of America is prepared to welcome a series of major celebrations and significant events in 2023, garnering the attention of travelers from near and far. Thanks to these big achievements and more, Condé Nast Traveler says KC is one of the 23 best places to visit in the U.S. in 2023.
Preview everything in store this year and get ready to make your trip.
A New Air Travel Experience
This year welcomed the transformation of Kansas City's air travel experience. Now open, the all-new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport delivers locally inspired amenities at every turn and a slate of accessibility features that aim to make it the world's most inclusive airport terminal.
Find more details on the single terminal here.
NFL Draft, April 27-29
This April, one of the biggest events in sports arrives at Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Get ready for three days of big-name picks, plus live entertainment, historical displays and much more, all taking place in the heart of the city and surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Kansas City skyline.
Tip: The event is free for all to attend! Just download the NFL OnePass app for entry details.
Beautiful Hotel Stays
Condé Nast Traveler also makes note of the recent hotel additions making a trip to Kansas City more comforting and cozy than ever. New properties in the Country Club Plaza area, as well as continued recognition for Downtown KC's brilliant lodging options, offer endless choices to stay in style.
Browse the latest information on Kansas City's boutique hotels here.
Major Anniversaries
In addition to new arrivals and significant first-time events, some of KC's most treasured destinations are celebrating major milestones in 2023. The Spanish-inspired Country Club Plaza is celebrating its centennial, while the inviting and eclectic Shops at Crown Center commemorate 50 years. At Worlds of Fun, the 50th anniversary festivities are headlined by the return of the Zambezi Zinger, a much-beloved coaster that ran at the park through 1997.
Must-Try Dining
Of course, no celebration of KC is complete without a nod to the region's undeniably delicious culinary scene. Condé Nast Traveler offers a tribute to Baba's Pantry, a Palestinian-American shop on East 63rd Street that was named one of Bon Appetit's 10 Best New Restaurants of 2022. It's one of many standout new arrivals that make a visit to Kansas City more flavorful than ever.
Additional Highlights All Year Long
Through every season, there are even more reasons to make a trip to the City of Fountains this year, including a new aquarium at the Kansas City Zoo, the return of March basketball, a diehard sports culture and more. Want to stay informed about everything happening in KC this year? Sign up for our email newsletters here.