Exploring the City of Fountains: A Guide to Free Activities in Kansas City

Kansas City is a diverse city full of exciting things to do, and luckily for visitors and locals alike, many of these activities are free. Filled with history, culture, and nature, Kansas City is a great place to explore. From outdoor recreation to educational experiences, there is something for everyone. Here is a guide to free activities in Kansas City.

Explore the Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a self-guided tour of the city’s historical sites. The trail highlights over 40 important sites related to the civil rights movement and African-American history. It includes stops such as the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the Quindaro Townsite. Exploring the Freedom Trail is a great way to learn about Kansas City’s past and the struggles African Americans faced in the city and beyond.

Visit the Kansas City Zoo

The Kansas City Zoo is a great place to explore for free. It is home to over 1,600 animals from around the world, including gorillas, tigers, lions, giraffes, and more. During the summer months, the zoo offers free admission to visitors on select days. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for both adults and children.

Take a Tour of Union Station

Kansas City’s Union Station is a historic landmark and one of the city’s most popular attractions. The station is home to an array of shops, restaurants, and museums. Visitors can take a free tour of the station and learn about its history and architecture. The tour also includes a visit to the Grand Hall, where visitors can view the hand-painted ceiling and the iconic clock.

Explore the Country Club Plaza

The Country Club Plaza is a shopping district in Kansas City known for its Spanish-style architecture and wide array of shops and restaurants. Visitors can stroll through the plaza and enjoy the unique architecture, as well as the many public art displays. The plaza is also home to several free events throughout the year, including art festivals and outdoor concerts.

Take a Hike in Loose Park

Loose Park is a 75-acre park in the heart of Kansas City. It is home to a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the trails or explore the Rose Garden, which features over 400 varieties of roses. Loose Park also hosts free events throughout the year, including concerts and outdoor movie screenings.

Visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial

The National WWI Museum and Memorial is a must-see for any visitor to Kansas City. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and documents from the First World War, as well as a variety of interactive exhibits. Visitors can also explore the memorial grounds, which feature sculptures and monuments dedicated to the men and women who served in the war. Admission to the museum is free every Tuesday.

Go to an Art Gallery

Kansas City is home to a vibrant art scene, and there are many galleries throughout the city to explore. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the galleries and see a variety of artwork from local, national, and international artists. Many galleries offer free admission and host special events throughout the year.

Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is one of the top art museums in the country. It is home to over 33,000 works of art from all over the world, including European and American classics, Asian artifacts, and modern art. Admission to the museum is free every day, and visitors can explore the galleries or take part in art activities for all ages.

Explore Kauffman Stadium

Kauffman Stadium is home to the Kansas City Royals baseball team and is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Visitors can take a free tour of the stadium and explore the grounds, including the dugout, clubhouse, and press box. The stadium also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as movie screenings and concerts.

Visit the National World War I Museum

The National World War I Museum is located in Liberty Memorial Park and is one of the largest collections of World War I artifacts in the world. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum and explore the interactive exhibits, which include photographs, artifacts, and documents from the war. The museum also hosts a variety of special events, such as lectures and educational programs.

Check Out the Kansas City Public Library

The Kansas City Public Library is one of the largest public libraries in the country and is home to a variety of books, magazines, and electronic media. Visitors can take advantage of the library’s free Wi-Fi and explore the collections, which include books from all genres and a variety of languages. The library also hosts a variety of events and activities, such as story time for children and book clubs.

Visit the City of Fountains

No visit to Kansas City is complete without seeing the City of Fountains. The city is home to over 200 fountains, which range from elaborate sculptures to more simple designs. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fountains or take a boat tour of the city’s waterways. The fountains are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history.

Summary

Kansas City is a great place to explore, and there are plenty of free activities to enjoy. From exploring the Freedom Trail to taking a tour of Union Station, there is something for everyone. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as exploring Loose Park or taking a boat tour of the City of Fountains. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day or an educational experience, Kansas City has something for you.