Whether you're in town for the weekend or making a longer trip out of it, Kansas City has so much to explore. Here are a few of our favorite spots and recommendations to help you enjoy your time in the city.

One of the easiest ways to explore the city is the free KC Streetcar, which runs from Brookside to the River Market through downtown. Hop on and off to explore:

• Crossroads Arts District

• Crown Center

• Power & Light District

• River Market

Kansas City has an incredible (and very accessible) arts scene. If you have time, we recommend:

• Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

• Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

• National WWI Museum and Memorial

If you enjoy craft beer, Kansas City has a great brewery scene—many located in the Crossroads. Check out Brewer’s Alley (a walkable area in the Crossroads with several breweries nearby). Some of our favorites include:

• Brewery Emperial

• Casual Animal Brewing Co.

• City Barrel Brewing Company

• Torn Label Brewing Co.

A couple of our favorite spots to start the day:

• Crowe’s Coffee

• Messenger Coffee Co.

Perfect for a relaxed morning or midday catch-up:

• Hemma Hemma

• Westside Local

• HomeGrown

• Heirloom Bakery & Hearth

You really can’t visit KC without trying the barbecue. A few of our favorites:

• Jack Stack Barbecue (Freight House is a great location, and there’s also one on the Plaza)

• Q39 - Midtown (highly recommend the brisket)

• Joe's KC BBQ (go to the original gas station location for BBQ sandwiches)

For a relaxed afternoon, head to the Country Club Plaza for shopping, walking, and plenty of lunch options.

Traveling with little ones? These are great options:

• Museum of Illusions

• Science City at Union Station

• Loose Park (great for picnics and playgrounds)

• SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium at Crown Center

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City at Crown Center

• Chicken N Pickle (we recommend the North KC location for pickleball, yard games, and a fun group atmosphere)

A few of our personal favorites—casual, fun, and very Kansas City:

• The Peanut (we love the Main Street & Martway locations)

• Earl's Premier

• Bacaro Primo

• Pizza 51