Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
With free admission and a prime location near the Country Club Plaza, the Kemper Museum is one of Kansas City’s best-kept secrets. The museum’s collection focuses on post-World War II art, including major works by artists like Willem de Kooning, Helen Frankenthaler, and Clyfford Still. Beyond the galleries, the Kemper also hosts jazz performances, art-making workshops, artist talks, and film screenings to engage visitors. The museum’s ultramodern architecture, featuring soaring glass walls and a winding sculpture garden, is a work of art in itself. Don’t miss the dramatic installation piece by artist Ranjani Shettar suspended in the atrium.
Address: 4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Phone: (816) 753-5784
Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City
At Wonderscope, kids can let their imaginations run wild while parents and caregivers get a much-needed break. This children’s museum designed specifically for ages 8 and under takes an innovative, hands-on approach to early learning. Exhibits like Art Studio, Grocery Store, and Vet Clinic let kids role-play and explore. For pint-sized thrill-seekers, projects like Building Big reveal the science behind constructing skyscrapers and bridges. Sensory spaces provide a calming retreat for overstimulated children. Wonderscope is conveniently located in the Red Bridge Shopping Center near the state line, with plenty of dining and shopping options for families.
Address: 5700 King St, Kansas City, MO 64112
Phone: (816) 472-1400
Money Museum
Inside the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City downtown lies a free attraction many locals don’t even know about. The Money Museum takes visitors behind the scenes of America’s central banking system with interactive exhibits explaining how money is made and managed. Highlights include a giant brick tower representing the weight of $1 million in $20 bills and an opportunity to pose for photos grasping giant grippers just like the ones used to handle cash. Visitors can also try picking up a gold bar in the exhibit hall. Entry requires passing through airport-style security, so leave pocket knives and other contraband behind. Valid photo ID is required for adults over the age of 16.
Address: 925 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Phone: (816) 881-2655
Arabia Steamboat Museum
At this quirky museum near the City Market, you can explore the remains of a massive steamboat that once carried passengers up the Missouri River in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Arabia sank north of Kansas City in 1856 and the wreckage was buried underground until it was excavated in the 1980s. Today you can see the fully restored cargo hold and remains of everyday items the steamboat was carrying when it went down, from shoes and tools to canned food. It’s a unique glimpse into frontier life in America.
Address: 400 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Phone: (816) 471-1856
Harley Davidson Factory Tour
You can’t leave Kansas City without visiting the Harley Davidson Vehicle and Powertrain Operations Plant, where some of the world’s most iconic motorcycles are manufactured. Free tours give you an up-close look at the assembly line and let you see skilled technicians hand-building custom bikes. The tour ends in the Customer Delivery Center, where you can see the finished products up close, sit on bikes, and watch new owners take their first rides. The gift shop sells plenty of Harley branded merchandise to commemorate your visit.
Address: 11711 N Congress Ave, Kansas City, MO 64153
Phone: (877) 743-3414
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
This family farm experience recreates life in the early 1900s with historic homes, gardens, animals, and demonstrations that will fascinate kids and adults. Listen to stories from costumed interpreters, sample old-fashioned foods like cider and Kettle Corn, and meet the resident farm animals up close. Kids can burn off energy in spaces like the Adventure Playground while parents relax and enjoy the pastoral setting. Handicap accessible options make this farm fun for visitors of all abilities.
Address: 13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221
Phone: (913) 826-2800
City Market
Downtown Kansas City comes alive at this lively public market just west of the Missouri River. The City Market has been operating since 1857 and still preserves an old-school feel reminiscent of public markets in Europe. Today, it’s home to over 35 specialty shops and restaurants offering everything from fresh pasta and chocolate to boutique apparel and home goods. Visit on weekends to browse the outdoor City Market Farmers’ Market showcasing local food producers.
Address: 20 E 5th St, Kansas City, MO 64106
Phone: (816) 460-2200
Boulevard Brewing Company Tour
Beer lovers won’t want to miss a behind-the-scenes look at Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City’s largest specialty brewer. Daily tours include an in-depth peek at their brewing process plus three beer samples in the taproom. Tour tickets sell out weeks in advance, so book early. And ask your bus team to swing by the Boulevard Tours gift shop so you can bring home glasses, shirts, hats and other brew-centric souvenirs.
Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Phone: (816) 474-7095
Plan Your Trip With Party Bus Kansas City
Now that you know about Kansas City’s top hidden gem attractions, start planning your group visit. Party Bus Kansas City offers charter bus rentals and tours to take your crew around KC in comfort and style. Our expert team knows the ins and outs of the city. Just sit back, relax, and let us handle parking and navigation while you enjoy these amazing under-the-radar spots. Call us today at 785-329-3956 to learn more or request a group bus quote. We can’t wait to show off our beloved hometown!