First-Timer’s Guide to Kansas City

Truly. Slow-smoked goodness comes in many forms, but Kansas City style stands alone as one-of-a-kind. Some cook low and slow while others prefer high heat and faster results, but all pay homage to the forbearers of KC’s signature cuisine.

The city’s ‘cue craze can be traced back to Henry Perry, who in the early 1920s started barbecuing in an outdoor pit adjacent to his streetcar barn, serving slabs of meat wrapped in newspaper. Perry’s delicacies became so popular that fans began imitating his technique and style to create their own unique recipes.

Now, Kansas City barbecue enthusiasts can satisfy their cravings at more than 100 mouth-watering barbecue restaurants dotted around the metro.

Seriously. It shouldn’t come as a surprise where KC got its “City of Fountains” nickname. The only other destination that rivals Kansas City for most fountains is Rome.

Stroll through the Country Club Plaza, take in the sights outside Union Station and plenty others in between for some of the most iconic spouts in the city.

Once known as the “Paris of the Plains” during Prohibition, Kansas City’s rebellious spirit lives on in a cocktail culture that distills drinks into an artform and area breweries that keep customers satisfied with unique and flavorful brews.

Sample the city’s signature sound at jazz clubs around the metro, including The Blue Room and the Green Lady Lounge, or a late-night session at the Mutual Musicians Foundation.

Meanwhile, live music venues like T-Mobile Center and Arvest Bank Theatre at The Midland regularly host uber-popular artists, from Drake and Lady Gaga to Chance the Rapper and Paul Simon.

From al fresco adventures to indoor entertainment, good eats and more, kids of all ages are welcome in Kansas City.

Head to Crown Center for imaginative adventures at Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life Aquarium and Kaleidoscope. The Kansas City Zoo is an all-time favorite while The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is filled with wonder.

For thrills, make your way to Worlds of Fun, an amusement park filled with year-round entertainment, including high-speed coasters and unforgettable experiences such as Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.

Chart the course of American history at institutions such as the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, the National World War I Museum and Memorial and the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, plus other national museums throughout the region.

Those in search of fine art need look no further than The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Artand the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, two essential KC experiences.

International flavors, comfort food delights, James Beard dishes and fine-dining experiences are all exemplary standouts in Kansas City’s culinary scene.

Try Manny’s Mexican Restaurant for traditional Mexican fare, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room for a medley of upscale flavors, Rye for down-home specialties and The Antler Room for intimate small plates.

The arts continue to shape Kansas City culture, from the maker movement and the 100-plus galleries scattered throughout the Crossroads Arts District to big-time events such as the Plaza Art Fair.

Awe-inspiring performances are the norm at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, home to the Kansas City Ballet, Kansas City Symphony and the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, as well as big tour productions.

There’s always something remarkable to discover in Kansas City. Tour the Country Club Plazafor signature boutiques and high-end shopping, but stick around for the Spanish-inspired architecture, countless fountains and picture-perfect patios.

Meanwhile, visitors find Insta-worthy installations throughout the region, including at local landmarks such as The Scout and Museum at Prairiefire.

Diamond, pitch, gridiron or racetrack, Kansas City touts a rich athletic history and an even more passionate fan base, regardless of the time of the year or event. Plan on spirited tailgates, uproarious crowds and memories that last a lifetime.

Get to know KC’s sports culture.

• Population: 2.1 million (metro)
• Nicknames: KC, City of Fountains, Paris of the Plains, Heart of America
• Founded: 1838
• Famous Kansas Citians: Full list

For other useful information, check out Visit KC’s official Visitors Guide, a helpful resource for newcomers.