Top Rated Attractions in Kansas City

In 1926, to honor those Americans who fought and lost their lives during World War I, the people of Kansas City erected this memorial. It was funded entirely through private donations and it's the only commissioned memorial of its kind in the U.S. that honors the 'Great War'. The Memorial is divided between a North Wall, Memory Halls and dominated by the massive 217-ft. tower. As dusk falls, the top of the tower is lit brightly and can be seen for miles. Inside the memorial, visitors will find the National WWI Museum, the official U.S. museum that contains the tanks, guns, memorabilia and interactive exhibits which gruesomely display the horrors of early 20th century warfare.

One of the more impressive buildings dedicated to the performing arts, the Kauffman Center is the highlight of the city's cultural scene. Located downtown, this multifaceted event center is dedicated to enhancing stage arts in the city by hosting nationally and internationally renowned artists, as well as providing a platform for local artists to share their expression with a bigger audience. Spread over approximately 285,000 square feet, the center is comprised of venues like the Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall. For more information on events and details, check their website.

A true paradise for golf-enthusiasts, the Nicklaus Golf Club at Lionsgate is another gem of a course from the Nicklaus Design kitty. Located to the south of the center of Overland Park, the golf course is sprawled out between West 143rd Street and West 135th Street, and is a 18-hole championship course that has hosted some very prominent golf tournaments, like the Midwest Classic. As a private club, one would have to be a member to enjoy all of the excellent facilities on offer here, but non-members can also enjoy some of the facilities, albeit at a higher cost. See the website or call to know more.

Explore the history of the Negro Baseball Leagues at this museum located in the 18th & Vine District. Through video presentations, film exhibits, interactive stations, a photo gallery and pieces of memorabilia, the museum offers insight into the lives and careers of the players who contributed so much to the game of baseball while helping to advance the Civil Rights movement. This museum adjoins the American Jazz Museum, so be sure to allow enough time to visit both. Check website to find out more details on events and presentations.

Chicago has the Green Mill and Kansas City has the Green Lady, a couple of things they have in common are great jazz and loads of ambiance. The only difference with the K.C. version is that guests can enjoy a couple of small bites while listening to some up-and-coming local artists. The cocktail menu is also filled with a lot of old-school drinks like the Manhattan, Rob Roy, Old-Fashioned and their very own Green Lady made with apple jack brandy. Check website for complete calendar of musicians and other information.

This impressive cluster of bars, restaurants, lofts and cafes known as River Market is located where the new city was first established in the 1850's. The district sits on the South side of the Missouri River and its location provides beautiful views while city dwellers shop in the wide variety of specialty stores, markets and boutiques. Every day of the week more than 40 local vendors haul in regional goods and crafts which attract hordes of shoppers to the massive City Market. The reasonable prices and unique choices are only part of the draw; many of the quaint in-house businesses can be found in some of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in Kansas City.