Top 10 Exciting Events in Kansas City for Your Bucket List!
If you're looking for a destination that combines Midwestern charm with exciting events, then Kansas City is the place for you. This bustling city has plenty to offer visitors, from world-class museums to some of the best barbecue in the country. But beyond the usual attractions, there's a wealth of unique experiences that make Kansas City an unforgettable destination.
Here are our top 10 picks for exciting events in Kansas City that should be on every traveler's bucket list:
1. Get a taste of the Wild West at the American Royal rodeo.
2. Catch a game at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs.
3. Explore the incredible collection at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
4. Have a blast at Worlds of Fun amusement park.
5. Sample some of KC's famous barbecue at the annual American Royal World Series of Barbecue.
6. Take a stroll through the beautiful Loose Park Rose Garden.
7. Dance the night away at Boulevardia, the city's largest beer and music festival.
8. Learn about local history at the National World War I Museum and Memorial.
9. Take a spooky tour of the haunted houses in the West Bottoms neighborhood.
10. See a show at the stunning Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
No matter what your interests, there's something to thrill and excite you in Kansas City. So why not add these events to your bucket list and start planning your next trip today?
Exciting Events in Kansas City: Top 10 Picks
Kansas City is a vibrant city that offers an incredible range of experiences for visitors. Here are our top 10 picks for exciting events in Kansas City.
1. American Royal Rodeo: Get a taste of the Wild West
The American Royal Rodeo is one of the most popular events in Kansas City. Held annually in October, this event brings together some of the finest cowboys and cowgirls in the country. Visitors can witness thrilling rodeo events such as bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and more. The American Royal Rodeo also has a barbecue contest and a carnival, making it a fun and exciting day out for the whole family.
2. Arrowhead Stadium: Catch a game with the Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium is the home of the Kansas City Chiefs, one of the most successful NFL teams in history. If you're visiting Kansas City during the football season, catching a game at Arrowhead Stadium is a must-do. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 76,000, and the atmosphere is electric on game days. Watching the Chiefs play at Arrowhead is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Explore an incredible collection
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is one of the best museums in the country. The museum boasts an incredible collection of art from around the world, with works by renowned artists such as Monet, van Gogh, and Rembrandt. The museum also features impressive outdoor sculptures and beautiful gardens. With free admission and a world-class collection, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a must-visit destination in Kansas City.
4. Worlds of Fun: Have a blast at the amusement park
Worlds of Fun is an amusement park that offers fun and excitement for visitors of all ages. The park features over 235 acres of rides, shows, and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and live shows. Worlds of Fun also has a dedicated section for young children, with milder rides and attractions. Whether you're looking for thrilling rides or family-friendly fun, Worlds of Fun is a great destination in Kansas City.
5. American Royal World Series of Barbecue: Sample KC's famous barbecue
Kansas City is known as the barbecue capital of the world, and the American Royal World Series of Barbecue is the ultimate celebration of this delicious cuisine. Held annually in September, this event brings together some of the best pitmasters in the country to compete for the title of World Champion. Visitors can sample mouth-watering barbecue dishes, watch cooking competitions, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
6. Loose Park Rose Garden: Take a stroll through a beautiful garden
The Loose Park Rose Garden is a stunning garden that features over 4,000 roses in bloom. The garden covers over 1.5 acres and is one of the largest rose gardens in the country. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, admire the beautiful flowers, and take in the peaceful surroundings. The Loose Park Rose Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
7. Boulevardia: Dance the night away at Kansas City's largest beer and music festival
Boulevardia is a two-day festival that celebrates beer, food, and music. The festival features over 50 breweries from around the country, offering a wide variety of craft beers to sample. Boulevardia also has food trucks, live music, and other entertainment. The festival takes place in June and is a great way to enjoy the summer weather in Kansas City.
8. National World War I Museum and Memorial: Learn about local history
The National World War I Museum and Memorial is a unique museum that tells the story of the Great War. The museum features exhibits on the war, including artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. The museum also has a memorial that honors the soldiers who fought in the war. Visiting the National World War I Museum and Memorial is a great way to learn about local history and pay tribute to those who served in the war.
9. West Bottoms Haunted Houses: Take a spooky tour of haunted houses
For a thrilling and spooky experience, visit the West Bottoms neighborhood and take a tour of the haunted houses. The West Bottoms is an industrial district that has been transformed into a destination for haunted attractions. Visitors can explore abandoned buildings, encounter actors in scary costumes, and experience jump scares and other frights. The West Bottoms Haunted Houses are a must-visit attraction for Halloween enthusiasts.
10. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: See a show in a stunning venue
The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a beautiful venue that hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway productions, ballet performances, and concerts. The center features two performance halls, each with its own unique design and acoustics. Seeing a show at the Kauffman Center is a great way to experience the performing arts in Kansas City.
Comparison Table
| Event | Description | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| American Royal Rodeo | Watch thrilling rodeo events and enjoy a barbecue contest and carnival. | October |
| Arrowhead Stadium | Catch a game with the Kansas City Chiefs and experience the electric atmosphere. | Football Season (September - January) |
| Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art | Explore a world-class collection of art from around the world for free. | Year-round |
| Worlds of Fun | Enjoy over 235 acres of rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. | Summer Season (May - August) |
| American Royal World Series of Barbecue | Sample mouth-watering barbecue dishes and watch cooking competitions. | September |
| Loose Park Rose Garden | Take a leisurely stroll through a beautiful garden with over 4,000 roses in bloom. | Spring and Summer |
| Boulevardia | Dance the night away at Kansas City's largest beer and music festival. | June |
| National World War I Museum and Memorial | Learn about the Great War and pay tribute to those who served in the war. | Year-round |
| West Bottoms Haunted Houses | Experience jump scares and other frights in a spooky tour of haunted houses. | Halloween Season (October) |
| Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | See a show in a beautiful venue that hosts a variety of performances. | Year-round |
Opinion
Kansas City is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone. From world-class museums to exciting events, there's always something new and thrilling to experience in this vibrant city.
As someone who has visited Kansas City many times, I highly recommend checking out the American Royal Rodeo, Arrowhead Stadium, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. These three attractions are some of the best in the city, and they offer unique and unforgettable experiences.
I also recommend trying KC's famous barbecue at the American Royal World Series of Barbecue and taking a stroll through the beautiful Loose Park Rose Garden. Both of these destinations showcase the best of Kansas City and are must-visit attractions.
Whether you're visiting to catch a game at Arrowhead Stadium or to explore the city's rich history, Kansas City has something to offer every traveler. Add these events to your bucket list and start planning your next trip today!
Thank you for taking the time to read our list of Top 10 Exciting Events in Kansas City for Your Bucket List! We hope that we have provided you with some great ideas for your next adventure in this wonderful city. With so much to see and do, Kansas City is truly a destination that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
From the annual Renaissance Festival to the exciting Kansas City Chiefs football games, this city offers something for everyone. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a good time, we are confident that you will find something on our list that appeals to you.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Kansas City today and make sure to include some of these top events on your itinerary. We promise that you won't be disappointed!
Are you looking for some exciting events to add to your bucket list in Kansas City? Here are the top 10 events that you don't want to miss:
The American Royal World Series of Barbecue - this is the largest barbecue competition in the world and features over 500 teams competing for top honors.
The Kansas City Renaissance Festival - immerse yourself in a medieval world with jousting, live entertainment, and delicious food.
The Plaza Art Fair - enjoy art from over 240 artists, live music, and great food in one of Kansas City's most beautiful neighborhoods.
The Kansas City Irish Fest - celebrate Irish culture with live music, traditional dancing, and plenty of beer.
The Boulevardia festival - enjoy craft beer, food trucks, live music, and more in the heart of Kansas City.
The Great Midwest Balloon Fest - watch hot air balloons take to the skies as they light up the night sky.
The Kansas City Auto Show - see the latest and greatest cars from all of the major automakers.
The Heart of America Shakespeare Festival - enjoy free outdoor performances of Shakespeare's plays in beautiful Southmoreland Park.
The Kansas City Film Fest - see some of the best independent films from around the world and meet the filmmakers.
The Plaza Lights - witness the stunning display of over 80 miles of lights on the Country Club Plaza during the holiday season.