By Lysa Allman-Baldwin

As the undisputed birthplace of jazz, Kansas City was the place to experience the best emerging and legendary jazz artists in the 1920s and ‘30s, with more than 200 clubs around town.

Today, both denizens and visitors alike can still choose from a variety of exciting venues that boast the Kansas City jazz sound. Here are a few places for grooving with the best local, national and world-renown artists on your own jazz crawl.

Historic Kansas City Jazz

One of Kansas City’s quintessential jazz spots is The Blue Room. Located in the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District and named after a former 1930s hot spot there, The Blue Room is a unique multifaceted venue. The vintage photographs, memorabilia and artifacts here are part of the American Jazz Museum, which honors Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie and other jazz greats.

Together they create a distinctive backdrop for the variety of local contemporary, national and prominent international artists that perform here several nights a week.

Midnight Jazz

Party into the wee hours of the morning at the Mutual Musicians Foundation. The Foundation is listed on the Kansas City Landmarks Commission Register and the National Register of Historic Places, and holds the distinction asthe longest-running jazz place in the world.

In1930, the Colored Musicians Union brought together jazz greats like Hot Lips Page, Mary Lou Williams, Jimmy Rushing, Buck Clayton and Jay McShann. Here, these pioneering artists created the world-renown Kansas City jazz sound. On weekends at midnight its The 12 O’clock Jump live jazz, blues and comedy jam radio program, and Live JAZZ Jam that attracts jazz veterans, novices and enthusiastic fans who party ‘til the sun comes up!

Jazzy and Majestic

For an intimate supper club ambiance, try Jardine’s Restaurant and Jazz Club. Seven nights a week local favs Ida McBeth, Angela Hagenbach, Sons of Brasil and others bring their own unique jazz style and flair. Watch out – you may be part of a live album recording!  

Once a prohibition-era Speakeasy, The Majestic Restaurant is a must for any jazz crawl sojourn. Situated in a historic building built in 1911 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Majestic exudes that same, turn-of-the-century carefree vibe with a smattering of modern, European flair.

The Fiery and the Spiritual

Another favorite Kansas City jazz joint is The Phoenix Jazz Club. Lonnie McFadden, Tim Whitmer & KC Express featuring the incredible vocal stylings of Monique Danielle, George Robinson and the Dan Doran Band and Brian Ruskin Bands are among the popularperformers Monday through Saturday, starting about 4:00 p.m. Recently remodeled, The Phoenix also features a 2nd Saturdays Charity Jazz Brunch with live music, a buffet, and “breakfast beverage" for only $20! 

Spirituality and all that Jazz is a smoke-free, family friendly (kids under 12 are free!) jazz event. Held the first Wednesday of every month at Unity Temple on the Plaza, Spirituality and all that Jazz features Millie Edwards, the Wild Women of Kansas City and other soulful jazz artists.

Alfresco Jazz

Celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, Jazz in the Woods is a Kansas City favorite. Held in June (June 11-12 this year), this free jazz and music festival that raises donations for local children's charities, attracts tens of thousands of Jazz fans from around the Midwest. This year’s headline acts include venerable jazz musicians Mindi Abair, Bobby Watson, Erin Bode, Matt Marshak, and the Mingo Fishtrap Quartet featuring Curtis Lundy, Nick Colionne and Steve Cole.

Another favorite outdoor music celebration is the Rhythm & Ribs Festival. Held Father’s Day weekend, the two-day festival attracts an estimated 50,000-plus folks to two lively stages at the 18^th and Vine Parade Park festival grounds. This year’s talent has not been announced, but past performers have included local and internationally renown artists including Fourplay featuring Missouri native Bob James, Jonathan Butler,  Al Green, Poncho Sanchez, Take Six, Luqman Hamza and George Duke.

Jazzy and historic, Kansas City offers one of the most unique jazz experiences in the world.