Ultimate 48-Hour Kansas City Itinerary Guide

Day One

1 p.m.: Drop your belongings off at your hotel. For a splurge, stay at the Rafael Hotel, a “vintage chic” boutique hotel in Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza. Designed by early 20th Century architect Alonzo Gentry, this Italian Renaissance Revival-style hotel originally opened in 1928. The hotel has since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features live music every night.

For more affordable accommodations, check out the 816 Hotel in Old Westport. This modern hotel pays homage to local history, with themed rooms featuring decor from iconic Kansas City institutions.

2 p.m.: Make your first stop at Union Station. Built in 1914, this 850,000 square-foot space is now a mixed-use commercial hub. Visit its majestic Grand Hall and explore the Science Center for interactive exhibits.

3 p.m.: Head to the World War I Museum and Memorial. Walk over a glass-floored bridge themed with 9,000 red poppies. This museum features a vast collection chronicling the social and cultural impacts of World War I in the United States.

4 p.m.: Take a short cab or drive to the American Jazz Museum. Located in Kansas City’s Historic Jazz District, it is dedicated to jazz music and features memorabilia from famous musicians.

Next, visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, highlighting the history of African-American baseball leagues.

6:30 p.m.: Enjoy iconic Kansas City barbecue for dinner at Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue or Gates Bar-B-Q. The city’s barbecue scene is rich and rooted in local history.

8 p.m.: End your day in the historic 18th Street and Vine area with live music and a nightcap at Tom’s Town Distilling Co..

Day Two

10 a.m.: Start your day with brunch at Gram & Dun. This restaurant offers modern twists to classic Southern dishes, including their famous brunch cocktails.

12 p.m.: Next, visit the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. This museum showcases renowned artists, and admission to the permanent collection is free.

Continue to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, home to over 34,000 pieces of art spanning 5,000 years.

4 p.m.: Explore the Country Club Plaza, known for its Spanish architecture. Don’t miss the iconic Giralda Tower.

6 p.m.: Dine at Chaz on the Plaza for contemporary American cuisine or enjoy a meal at Classic Cup for a more casual option.

8 p.m. If you’re not ready to call it a night, visit the Power and Light District, which is bustling with nightlife and entertainment.

Day Three

8 a.m.: Start your last day in Kansas City with breakfast at City Diner. Enjoy a classic breakfast of biscuits and gravy.

9 a.m.: Explore the River Market area on foot with a walking tour that covers nearly 200 years of Kansas City history.

Afterward, visit City Market for shopping. Don’t miss Tikka House, known for its bulk spices and authentic Indian dishes.

12 p.m.: Before leaving, stop by the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, showcasing artifacts from the 33rd president’s life.

The Best Kansas City Tours