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New to KC?

No problem. From world-class jazz, smoky barbecue and more than 200 dazzling fountains, consider this your quick primer to everything that is unique to this Heartland metropolis.

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KC Novice

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American Jazz Museum_018_AA.jpg1. It’s no secret that Kansas City’s rich jazz legacy came to life in the roaring 1920s. What you may not know is that KC is still swinging more than eight decades later. Check out the genre’s storied history at the American Jazz Museum. Then stay for a listen at the museum’s working jazz club, The Blue Room, which is repeatedly named one of the 100 top jazz clubs in the world by Downbeat Magazine.


BBQ Ribs Sign_001_AA.jpg2. Where there’s smoke … there’s barbecue! Kansas City’s twist involves slow cooking the meat for up to 18 hours, usually over hickory. Belly-up to the counter at world-famous Arthur Bryant’s, Gates Bar-B-Q and Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue or any one of the 100 local establishments devoted to the heavenly ‘cue.


Crown Center3. From small and whimsical to large and majestic, Kansas City is home to more fountains than any other city in the world, except maybe Rome. Some are even on year-round, including at Crown Center, where each jet is synchronized to seasonal music.
    


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4. A visit to Kansas City just isn’t complete without experiencing the iconic Country Club Plaza. Designed in 1922, this 14-square-block outdoor shopping and entertainment district is filled with romantic Spanish-style architecture, European art and dazzling fountains. And don’t forget the shopping—the Plaza is lined with trendy boutiques, fine stores and local favorites.


Even more ideas:

Did you know?

Jesse James

Jesse James Farm Home_009_AA.jpg

Famous outlaw Jesse James grew up in nearby Kearney, Mo. His birthplace, the Jesse James Farm and Home features the world’s largest display of James family artifacts.
Learn More


Quotable Kansas City

“Even if you come to this Midwestern city on a barbecue pilgrimage, you still have to entertain yourself between meals. And you will find that you have many choices.”

Orlando Sentinel 

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