Like a Local: Where to go in Kansas City to explore arts and culture

Kae Lani Palmisano
Eric T. Williams/Kansas City Symphony

Part of what makes Kansas City a unique place is the arts and culture you’ll find here. Engaging with local arts and culture is a great way to get to know a place which is why as we build our Guide to the City of Fountains, we spent some time focusing on arts and culture.

This summer, we asked readers of The Kansas City Star “what would be the one thing you’d recommend to someone who is new to Kansas City?” We got around 100 really thoughtful responses, many of which focused on the metro’s museums, galleries, community centers and music venues.

If you’re looking for ways to connect with Kansas City on a deeper level, check out these local recommendations.

  • “Union Station has some wonderful history and the brunch at Harvey’s is well worth the money.” - Anna Cecil, resident for over 60 years

  • “Go to a performance at the Kauffman Center. I’d recommend seeing our amazing symphony orchestra perform in Helzberg Hall. Our symphony is excellent. The hall is wonderful. The music is sublime. There’s a wide range of ticket prices. All the seats are good. The acoustics are great!” - Kitty Degler, resident for 38.5 years

  • “The Kansas City Public Library: Central Library in Kansas City MO Resource Library downtown. It is a gorgeous building with tons of history and things to do. With a great kids section and of course the 5th floor giant chess and view.” - Ricardo, resident for 10 years

  • “Any show at Knuckleheads or Grinders. The ambiance of both venues are fantastic. Like watching a show in your neighbors back yard. Like Chris Robinson (Black Crowes) said a few years back “Mom and Dad said we can have a party here, but they said we have to clean up when we leave”.” - Mark Barbosa, resident for 62 years

  • “Screenland Armour Theater! Locally owned, $5 ticket Tuesdays, indie movies, throwbacks, and big features, full bar and kitchen!” - Abbey, resident for 21 years

  • “Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum. It is always there (unlike sporting events), and you can go over and over and always see something new or in a new light.” - Clayton, resident for 55 years

  • “Go to Liberty Memorial. A trip up the tower provides an overview of the entire city.” - Jim Chandler, resident for 68 years

  • “The Kansas City Museum of Toys and Miniatures! It’s a really unique, playful, and incredible museum - the craftsmanship is amazing, and every time I go I notice new things. It’s also got universal appeal - it’s fun to go with family and point out multiple generations of toys, it’s got little activities and magnifying glasses to encourage kids to interact with the displays, and it has a rotating featured exhibition that features really interesting, well researched toy history. Plus it’s super affordable! It’s really a gem. I love taking people visiting from out of town there!” - Muriel, resident for 11 years

  • “The Mutual Musicians Foundation is one of my favorite places in KC. The best jazz and so much history in one building.” - @ayla_ann on Instagram

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