The National WWI Museum and Memorial is the only museum in the United States solely dedicated to preserving the objects, history, and personal experiences of a war whose repercussions can still be felt around the world today. The National WWI Museum houses the world's most diverse collection of World War I objects and documents, and it is the world's second-oldest public museum dedicated to preserving the war's objects, history, and personal experiences.

The First World War involved people from many nations and from diverse walks of life, and the Museum and Memorial bear responsibility for sharing their stories. As such, they are committed to being an organization where equity, inclusion, and diversity merge to create a space of belonging. They extend a universal welcome without regard to race, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or other characteristics, and they are committed to having a workforce where employees of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives enhance their work. The National WWI Museum and Memorial’s programming, collections, and exhibitions mirror this commitment, and they pledge to continually seek and remove barriers to the full inclusion of historically underrepresented groups.

Visitors are taken on an epic journey through a transformative period, and deeply personal stories of courage, honor, patriotism, and sacrifice are shared. The National WWI Museum, located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, and designated by Congress as America's official World War I Museum, inspires thought, dialogue, and learning to make the experiences of the Great War era meaningful and relevant for present and future generations.

Google rating: 4.9/5

Phone: +1 816-888-8100

Address: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

Website: https://www.theworldwar.org/

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City is widely regarded as one of America's finest art museums. The museum aspires to be a location "where the power of art engages the spirit of community." In support of that "spirit of community," the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art's renowned collection of nearly 40,000 art objects is always free of charge, with approximately 500,000 visitors each year.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art emerged from the shared dream of two individual Kansas Citians. William Rockhill Nelson, founder of The Kansas City Star, was convinced that art and culture were prerequisites for a city to be truly civilized. When Nelson died in 1915, the bulk of his estate was used to establish the William Rockhill Nelson Trust for the purchase of works of art. A world-renowned art museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a stunning tribute to both Kansas City and American culture.

The first stop for many on a tour through KC’s cultural district, the museum is within easy reach by foot or public transportation from the common tourist areas. This massive complex houses nearly 50 acres of awe-inspiring masterpieces from across time periods and continents.

Google rating: 4.9/5
Phone: +1 816-751-1278
Address: 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111, United States
Website: https://www.google.com/

Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead opened in 1978 to recreate a turn-of-the-century farm in Kansas. The Farmstead is home to nearly 250 animals and birds of prey, as well as vegetable and flower gardens, a one-room schoolhouse, an old-fashioned fishing pond, pony rides, and other attractions. Activities, attractions, and programs are available from April 1 to October 31 in a 12-acre educational farm setting that fosters an appreciation for farm life, wildlife, and Kansas history.

The Farmstead's mission is to connect guests to the history and heritage of early 1900's Kansas. Visitors of all ages interact with animals; mine for gemstones; bottle-feed pygmy goats; and watch a live milking demonstration. Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead is a place to make family memories.

Visitors can take guided tours through the farm where they’ll be introduced to all sorts of animals, from pigs and cows to donkeys and goats, not to mention plenty of chickens roaming free around the property! Beyond farm life, there’s also a hayride and plenty of other activities for little ones to enjoy.

Google rating: 4.8/5

Phone: +1 913-897-2360

Address: 13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221, United States

Website: https://www.opkansas.org/things-to-see-and-do/deanna-rose-childrens-farmstead/

Visit Historic Harley-Davidson of Topeka, 2047 SW Topeka Blvd., to see the world's largest collection of Evel Knievel's authentic performance leathers, jump bikes, and memorabilia. In addition to a large number of artifacts, the Evel Knievel Thrill Show and Museum includes interactive exhibits on the physics of jumps, Evel's broken bones, how engines work, and the crowd favorite, a virtual reality jump.

This fully-curated museum experience immerses you in each of Evel Knievel's daring feats. Videos, interactives, and informative signage put you right in the middle of the action. Get inside his Mack truck to learn about the bones he broke and how his wild ride affected his life, fame, and family. It features everything from original jumpsuits and motorcycles to personal letters and other unique memorabilia of America’s most iconic daredevil (who famously jumped his motorcycle over 13 buses on live TV). This museum provides onlookers with a memorable experience that satisfies even the most die-hard fans. This is one of the best things to do in Kansas when you come to this state.

Google rating: 4.8/5
Phone: +1 785-215-6205
Address: 2047 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, KS 66612, United States
Website: https://evelknievelmuseum.org/

Begin your holiday season with a festive family walk through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens' lights. Explore the magical Gnome and Fairy Villages, the serene winter woods by candlelight, and the colorful children's garden by strolling along the lit pathways. Visit Santa in his woodland depot and enjoy musical performances in four different locations. The gardens are vibrantly colored, while the peaceful woods are illuminated by candles lining the walkways. Thousands of lights illuminate trees, buildings, and bridges as part of the show.

An easy 30-minute drive from downtown Kansas City, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is the perfect place to take in all of Mother Nature’s beauty. More than 800 plant species are on display, and a range of sculptures, lakes and walking paths are spread across the 300-acre park. It provides fresh air that you all need once in a while on vacation. Stroll through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, said to be one of the best things to do in Kansas

Google rating: 4.8/5

Phone: +1 913-685-3604

Address: 8909 W 179th St, Bucyrus, KS 66013, United States

Website: https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/arboretum-botanical-gardens/

The Kauffman Memorial Garden is as serene as it comes, with ponds, fountains, blooming flowers, and plenty of gardens to stroll through — yet still, it remains a hidden gem (not for much longer, just imagine). Maintained beautifully and especially magnificent in the fall, this downtown slice of greenery is sure to have you leave feeling refreshed and calm.

This public space is located in the Powell Botanical Gardens and is dedicated to Ewing and Muriel Kauffman. It is open all year so that visitors can enjoy all four seasons and the distinct differences they bring. The Kauffmans were the quintessential city philanthropists; in addition to this tranquil oasis, Ewing founded the hometown Kansas City Royals and established his eponymous foundation, which provides charitable contributions to education and the arts to underprivileged youth.

Though the garden is small, it is a good spot to see some of the flora and fauna found on the larger Powell Gardens property. Visiting the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Gardens is considered to be one of the best things to do in Kansas.

Google rating: 4.8/5

Phone: +1 816-932-1200

Address: 4800 Rockhill Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110, United States

Website: https://www.mmkff.org/memorial-garden/

Kansas City’s largest independent brewery has been pumping out fresh beverages for over 30 years, and is famous in the area for its delicious yet affordable Pale Ale.

It’s located on the beautiful banks of the Missouri River just south of Downtown KCMO. You’ll find a cool-yet-inviting taproom decked out in wooden accents with an impressive view of the city skyline. Boulevard Brewing Company, founded in 1989, has grown to become the Midwest's largest specialty brewer. Their mission is straightforward: to create fresh, flavorful beers with the finest ingredients and the best of both old and new brewing techniques. Click the link to learn about Boulevard founder John McDonald's motivations and how they got to where they are today.

Their beers are built with four principal ingredients, but every drop of Boulevard also shares a fifth—passion. Their people are bound together by devotion to detail and are dedicated to providing their customers with the freshest, best tasting beer on the planet.

Google rating: 4.8/5
Phone: +1 816-474-7095
Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
Website: http://boulevard.com/

Powell Gardens, Kansas City's botanical garden, is set on 970 acres of lush, rolling hills and windswept meadows. It features breathtaking display gardens, interesting architecture, and a nature trail. An Island Garden, the nation's largest edible landscape; a perennial garden; the David T. Beals III Woodland and Stream Garden; a Wildflower Meadow; an indoor conservatory; the ever-changing Terrace Gardens; and native plantings are among the features. There is a full calendar of special events and classes for the entire family all year.

Aside from being a gardener's paradise, Powell Gardens features one-of-a-kind contemporary architecture. The Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel, designed by Fay Jones, provides a peaceful setting for reflection and inspiration. Jones, an Arkansas native, and Frank Lloyd Wright student is best known for his Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs. He also designed the Visitor Education Center and the Meadow Pavilion, in addition to the Chapel. All structures blend in with the Gardens' serene and natural surroundings.

The 18,000 square-foot Visitor Education Center houses the Perennial Lounge, where visitors can find seasonal gifts, snacks, and beverages; classroom space; and a glass-topped conservatory.

Google rating: 4.7/5
Phone: +1 816-697-2600
Address: 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061, United States
Website: https://powellgardens.org/

Swope Park's Lakeside Nature Center is located at 4701 E. Gregory Blvd. International Architects Atlier, Inc. designed the award-winning facility, which opened in 1999. As you explore the exciting displays, the large windows make you feel as if you're on a walk through the woods. Large aquariums with fish and turtles, a Bald Eagle exhibit, a weathering area with owls and hawks, and a variety of snake displays encourage visitors to take their time learning about the native wildlife.

Donations from the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Friends of Lakeside Nature Center, and the City of Kansas City, Missouri helped to fund the construction.

Naturalists protect wildlife and provide educational programmes for individuals and groups. Classes are held in Swope Park's Nature Center Classroom, on the nearby trails, on the marsh trail, and at the Camp Lake of the Woods facilities. Lakeside Nature Center has the state's second largest wildlife rehabilitation program and is the only facility in Missouri that combines wildlife rehabilitation with extensive environmental education programming.

Google rating: 4.7/5
Phone: +1 816-513-8960
Address: 4701 E Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64132, United States
Website: https://www.lakesidenaturecenter.org/

On the eve of the Civil War, experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a small Missouri town. Missouri Town 1855 is a living history museum spread across nearly 30 picturesque acres with over 25 buildings dating from 1822 to 1860. Seven western Missouri counties' original structures are filled with historic tools and furnishings, setting the stage for life in the mid-1800s.

The living history interpreters, heirloom crops, and heritage breed livestock will tell the story of daily life in these small 19th century towns during your self-guided tour. Throughout the year, special events focus on specific aspects of the community, such as politics, music, and farm life.

The museum is situated on rolling, grassy land, with a gravel lane through the center of the site. Please traverse with care. For your safety, pets are not permitted in the village. Inside this meticulously restored pioneer village, you’ll find five historic structures with exhibits ranging from a country store to an old-fashioned schoolhouse, as well as living history demonstrations (such as blacksmithing and candle dipping).

Google rating: 4.6/5
Phone: +1 816-524-8770
Address: 8010 E Park Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64064, United States
Website: https://www.makeyourdayhere.com/Events-Attractions/Historic-Sites/Missouri-Town-1855

Look no further than The College Basketball Experience. They are a high-energy and highly interactive facility, where fans of all ages can fully immerse themselves in the game. Ready to unleash your inner legend?

The National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame is housed at The CBE, which is more than just a Kansas City attraction. Their facility immerses you in the game by providing numerous engaging activities that every fan will enjoy. They are located in downtown Kansas City, just steps away from the Power & Light District, and are surrounded by major highways I-70 and I-35. Visit the Gallery of Honor, play on an indoor basketball court, or even record your call of a historic game at the ESPNU sports announcer table.

The CBE features family fun for all ages and every type of fan. Their facility is an excellent choice for birthday parties, and they have flexible event space rental options for your next big night. Coming from out of town? Explore the benefits of choosing The CBE for your day trip and weekend getaway ideas. What are you waiting for? You will not to call it ‘'traveling'‘ once you get here!

Google rating: 4.6/5
Phone: +1 816-949-7500
Address: 1401 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106, United States
Website: https://collegebasketballexperience.com/

Enjoy the sights and sounds of this 15-block area by taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or a gondola float on the nearby Brush Creek. The Plaza Lights are an eight-decade holiday tradition, and the annual Plaza Art Fair in the fall features the country's top visual artists. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art are both nationally renowned art museums located nearby. The Kansas City Repertory Theatre, located on the UMKC campus, is one of the Midwestern theatre scene's best-kept secrets, delighting local audiences while inspiring New York productions.

For over a century, the Country Club Plaza has been a shopping mecca, with over 125 of your favourite stores and two world-class museums. One of Kansas City's most iconic destinations is this beautifully preserved district. It's no surprise that it's been designated as a National Historic Landmark District. It's a local and tourist favourite, thanks to the historic Folly Theater and Kauffman House (not to mention dozens of restaurants on side streets and live music on Saturdays during the summer months). Traveling through this area should be at the top of your list of best things to do in Kansas.

Google rating: 4.5/5

Phone: +1 816-753-0100

Address: 4706 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112, United States

Website: https://countryclubplaza.com/

The American Jazz Museum, located in Kansas City's historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, showcases the sights and sounds of jazz through interactive exhibits and films; the Changing Gallery exhibit space; the Horace M. Peterson III Visitors Center; The Blue Room; and Gem Theater. Since its inception in September 1997, the Museum has hosted thousands of students, scholars, musicians, and art fans each year for over 200 performances, education programs, special exhibitions, community events, and more, providing an opportunity to learn about the legends, honor their legacy, or simply enjoy the sounds of modern-day jazz.

A guided or unguided group tour is a fantastic way for schools, camps, service organizations, travel groups, and large families to learn about jazz! Tours with a guide must be reserved in advance. Their guided tours, led by knowledgeable museum staff, offer a one-of-a-kind experience that will deepen your group's understanding and appreciation of the American Jazz Museum. Year-round guided tours are available. To secure the date and time of your choice for guided tours, fees may be paid in advance. Payment methods accepted include Purchase Order, online payment (credit card), and check by mail.

Google rating: 4.5/5
Phone: +1 816-474-8463
Address: 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
Website: https://americanjazzmuseum.org/

One of the most unique parks in Kansas City features a large fiberglass penguin along with other favorite zoo animals. Penguin Park, located at the intersection of NE Vision Road and North Norton Avenue in the Northland, is a destination worth adding to your list!

Penguin Park began as part of the Lakewood Greenway, which the Parks Department purchased in 1957. Vernon Jones, the supervisor of the Kansas City North Park District, designed and built the figures for Santa's Wonderland in Gillham Park. Jones decided to build a large penguin in 1965 after another employee created a miniature penguin for Santa's Wonderland. The penguin was installed in the northern section of the Lakewood Greenway and was a big hit.

Jones also designed other animals for the site, including a giraffe, an elephant, and a kangaroo. He continued to create figures for Santa's Wonderland at the northern park and Gillham Park, as well as other figures and more conservative Parks Department work, such as column repairs. For years, the corner of Lakewood Greenway was unofficially known as "Penguin Park," but it was officially renamed Penguin Park in December 1998. What makes this park so iconic (and a hit for kids) is its unique decorations. You’ll find giant giraffe, elephant, kangaroo, and penguin statues on the playground and beside picnic tables.

Google rating: 4.5/5
Phone: +1 816-513-7500
Address: 4124 NE Vivion Rd, Kansas City, MO 64119, United States
Website: https://kcparks.org/places/penguin-park/

The zoo is for you to explore with more than 200 acres of adventure filled with more than 1,700 animals. See penguins like never before at Helzberg Penguin Plaza. Watch king and gentoo penguins torpedo through the water in their 100,000 gallon cool pool and see the Humboldt penguins bask in the sun and get their flippers wet in the 25,000 gallon warm water pool. Dip your hands into a shallow pool and discover the unique texture of stingrays and bamboo sharks at Stingray Bay.

Journey to the Polar Bear Passage and marvel at the polar bears' beauty and strength. Swing into the Orangutan Canopy and get nose to-nose with these orange apes. Take a walkabout through a mob of kangaroos. Get a birds-eye view of zebras, giraffes, and rhinos on the African Sky Safari. Visit animals from the tropical rainforest, the African Savanna, the Australian Outback, the Asian mountainside, the north and south poles, and everywhere in between. America’s Best Zoo book featured the KCZoo as one of the top 60 zoos in the United States, boasting the best African, Kangaroo, and chimp exhibits.

The Zoo continues to win the favorite family day trip from KCParent Magazine and the best kids’ attraction as voted on by tourists. An always changing, always fun family experience for all ages. Open daily, year round. It's always a new adventure at the Kansas City Zoo!

Google rating: 4.5/5

Phone: +1 816-595-1234

Address: 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132, United States

Website: https://www.kansascityzoo.org/

The Museum at Prairie Fire in Overland Park has a variety of sights and activities for friends and families to enjoy. Aside from being a popular photo location, the museum itself has many features that would make a great day out for anyone. Beginning on the ground floor, the museum features a replica of the T-Rex from the "Night at the Museum" films, which bring artifacts from New York City's American Museum of Natural History to life. It is one of only three replicas in the world, making it extremely rare to come across.

Keeping with the dinosaur theme, there is a mirrored screen with customizable dinosaurs walking across it. This activity is a great way for younger children to spend their time and is just one of many "hands-on" activities available at the museum. The museum provides opportunities for all members of the family to participate, such as a long wall of posters covering topics such as race and identity, which is ideal for teenagers.

Overall, this museum is great for those who are looking to get a very hands-on learning experience. Entering the museum is a reasonable price and has enough activities to occupy anyone for hours of time. Prairie Fire is especially fun for groups. Visiting would be a great way to spend time with friends while also being able to learn a few things about the world around us. Although this museum is geared more towards children, it is truly a fun and exciting experience for all ages.

Google rating: 4.4/5
Phone: +1 913-333-3500

Address: 5801 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66223, United States

Website: https://www.visitthemap.org/

If you're in Kansas City for business or pleasure, consider stopping by Worlds of Fun. You're probably wondering what makes Worlds of Fun Kansas City so special that you have to go. The park, which opened in 1973, has seven different roller coasters set in a beautiful setting. Worlds of Fun Kansas City is home to over 30 rides divided between Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun Kansas City. At the Worlds of Fun Theme Park, you have a choice between thrill rides and roller coasters. If you are a fan of screaming your lungs out as you plunge through steep drops.

This Worlds of Fun ride comprises of two 200-foot towers and two chair lift-type seats. Once strapped in, prepare to kiss the sky of Kansas City as you are propelled towards it at 45 miles per hour. There's no shortage of family-friendly entertainment on offer, whether it's thrill rides (wait in line for the heart-stopping Detonator), water slides, arcade games, or live shows! The Worlds of Fun Resort includes a luxurious resort hotel with expansive pools and several on-site dining options, in addition to two world-class amusement parks.

Google rating: 4.2/5

Phone: +1 816-454-4545

Address: 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave, Kansas City, MO 64161, United States

Website: https://www.worldsoffun.com/rides-experiences/detonator