Explore the City of Fountains with our new guide to living your best life in Kansas City
You know how the song goes: “I’m going to Kansas City. Kansas City here I come…Well, I might take a train, I might take a plane, but if I have to walk, I’m going just the same.”
Our not-so-secret secret is getting out to other folks in the country — the Kansas City area is on the rise. It makes sense when you think about it. The metro area is relatively affordable compared to other major American cities. We have a vibrant arts and culture scene. Our sports teams are some of the best. Our restaurants are gaining national acclaim and winning awards. We’re centrally located, which means organizers of some of the world’s biggest events see our community as a destination.
Kansas City is also a place that is good to put down roots. There is rich history to explore, neighbors to meet and a community to support you when you’re in need. But just like any city, it can be hard to know where to begin getting to know the place you call home.
That’s why we’ve curated our Guide to the City of Fountains. We invite you to explore the guide online here. We’re also debuting a pop-up newsletter. Each week for seven weeks you’ll have a curated guide to living the best life in our region delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up here, and send it to someone who is new to our region.
This guide has something for everyone: newcomers to Kansas City, folks who have returned after a few years away, and Kansas Citians who have lived here for decades. From what to eat, things to do, cheering on our local sports teams, where to take in the vibrant arts scene, tips for navigating neighborhoods, and ways to become a more involved citizen.
To make this guide, we asked readers to share their Kansas City tips with us. We also drew on the knowledge and experience of The Kansas City Star’s staff. Have an idea about something the rest of the world should know about Kansas City? Share it with us through the form in this article, or via email at kcq@kcstar.com.
Kansas City is a happening place, so if you’re new to town or a lifetime local, join us on a journey to make the most out of living here. Make yourself at home. Grab yourself a plate of burnt ends and get ready to dig into your Guide to the City of Fountains.
Wondering where to start? Here are a few of my favorite parts of the guide:
Kansas City neighborhood guides
Kansas City is home to more than 240 neighborhoods. They are almost like mini-cities that stand on their own, each with their own histories, things to do and unique vibes. These guides will help you explore neighborhood by neighborhood.
Don’t see your neighborhood? We’re continuing to add guides. Tell us what you love about where you live and we may include you in a future guide.
Kansas City barbecue guide
With so many different kinds of barbecue to enjoy and over 100 restaurants to choose from in the metro area, Kansas City’s barbecue scene can be overwhelming. Let us be your guide to the perfect plate. Learn how to eat barbecue like an expert with our guide and video series.
Looking for somewhere to start? I recommend our Barbecue Passport. We curated our readers’ favorite restaurants and made a passport. You can download the PDF and keep track of your favorite spots.
Kansas City: Like a Local
Our Like A Local series explores Kansas City through reader suggestions. We asked you what newcomers should see, eat and do in the City of Fountains and you did not disappoint.
We’ve also curated more reader recommendations about arts and culture and what to eat. Looking for the most popular recommendations? We’ve got a list for that too.
We hope that you find this guide helpful. Now, get out there are explore!