A journey to the Sunflower State is a chance to encounter new neighborhoods, vibrant cultures and popular attractions. Whether you’re looking for fresh flavors, live music, or family-friendly adventures, Kansas City, Kansas, and nearby Bonner Springs have something for every interest. 

Kansas City, Kansas

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Distinctive neighborhoods and deep history define Kansas City, Kansas, located just across the state line. Combined with a collection of high-powered sports experiences, celebrated restaurants and shopping for all interests, KCK is certain to surprise every visitor.

DINE:

Start your morning off with a caffeine fix at Splitlog Coffee in the Strawberry Hill neighborhood.

This coffee shop’s location and drive-thru make it a convenient stop if you’re on the go, but don’t miss the chance to sit back and relax if you have the time. Splitlog’s modern aesthetic, big windows and outdoor seating make it ideal for lazy mornings, coffee dates with friends or even work meetings.

When the hunger cravings hit, find a stop on the KCK Taco Trail, a free mobile passport featuring nearly 60 local taquerias. Whether you’re looking for authentic, fried, Tex-Mex or street tacos, Kansas City, Kansas, has a local option.

And it wouldn’t be a trip to the Kansas City area without barbecue. KCK is home to several favorites, including Slaps BBQ and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, a former gas station turned local icon.

When you’re ready for a night out, try one of KCK’s many dive bars like Chicago’s or Fat Matt’s Vortex, a former funeral home turned bar. 

GO:

Creative minds will enjoy Epic Arts Clay Studio where visitors can join open studio hours or sign up for classes. Whether you’re a novice, pottery pro or want to bring the whole family, there are sessions for everyone.

Ready to get moving? Head to the Village West area where Atlas9 has captured imaginations. This interactive art experience is set inside a fictitious 90’s movie theater where scenes from “forgotten films” have sprung to life. 

A short drive away, fans can cheer on the Kansas City Monarchs, the region’s American Association of Professional Baseball team. Catch Friday night fireworks, theme nights and postgame player autographs on Saturdays, or run the bases after every Sunday home game. 

LEARN:

Go back in time at the Strawberry Hill Museum & Cultural Center, an original Queen Anne-style home built in 1887. The museum preserves the diverse cultures that immigrants from Eastern Europe, including those from Poland, Croatia and Ukraine, brought to the KC region in the early 1900’s. 

Join Urban Hikes KC to explore even more of the Strawberry Hill neighborhood and Downtown KCK. This walking tour features historic homes, popular murals, the Wyandot National Burying Ground and more. If an Urban Hike in KCK isn’t available, the company plans dozens more every month throughout the KC area.

Kaw Point Park is an impressive spot to take in views of the Kansas City skyline, but it’s history is even more impressive. The Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived at Kaw Point, the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri rivers, back in 1804 and camped there for three days. Today, the 10-acre park features river access, walking trails and a memorial for Native American tribes in the area.

SHOP:

Looking for some retail therapy? Tanger Kansas City at the Legends, located in the Village West area, is known for its big-name outlets and factory stores. With over 80 shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

Bonner Springs

Find eclectic experiences and small-town charm in Bonner Springs, Kansas. This Wyandotte County community is nestled along the Kansas River and home to local favorites like the Kansas City Renaissance Festival and Azura Amphiteather.

GO:

Zoom through the forest and soar among the treetops at Zip KC, one of Kansas City’s most thrilling destinations. The 143-acre adventure park in Bonner Springs features nine zip lines from towers up to 65 feet high — and some of the best views found in the KC metro area.

SHOP:

Downtown Bonner Springs is home to multiple locally owned shops and restaurants. One of the town’s sweetest destinations is CST Sweets where visitors will find handmade chocolates, toffees, brittles and ice cream. Eat your treat in the cafe or take it to-go to savor later.

Just outside downtown, Moon Marble Company carries handmade and machine-made marbles, plus vintage toys and puzzles. Stop in to see demonstrations of the marble-making process, peruse the displays of antique marble toys or find a unique memento to remember your trip. 

BONUS:

The popular Country Stampede music festival takes over Azura Amphitheater in Bonner Springs once again this summer. This year’s headliners include Treaty Oak Revival, Zach Top and Rascal Flatts. 

  • When: June 25-27, 2026
  • Where: Azura Amphitheater, Bonner Springs

Your Day Trip Itinerary

Here’s how to spend a day exploring Bonner Springs and Kansas City, Kansas

Some destinations on this route are not easily accessible via public transportation. If you plan to follow this itinerary, a rental car, rideshare or private vehicle is recommended.

Morning
  • Take in the sunrise at Kaw Point Park before grabbing an early breakfast at Splitlog Coffee.
  • Join an Urban Hike in Strawberry Hill or a walk-in session at Epic Arts Clay Studio.
Afternoon
  • Grab lunch at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Slaps BBQ.
  • Travel to Bonner Springs and choose your afternoon adventure.
  • Fly through the trees at Zip KC or browse local shops like Moon Marble Company and CST Sweets.
  • Drive to Tanger Outlets at the Legends in western KCK.
Evening
  • Browse the shops at Tanger Outlets at the Legends.
  • Hit the KCK Taco Trail and have dinner at a local taqueria.
  • Wander through Atlas9 or cheer on the Kansas City Monarchs at Legends Field.
  • Drive back to Downtown KCK and cap the night with drinks at Fat Matt’s Vortex.