Best Times to Visit Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Quick Answer:

When September and October arrive in Kansas City, the air turns crisp and carries the scent of woodsmoke from lively barbeque joints, a true taste of autumn. The city's vibrant energy is palpable during these months; days are filled with the lively sounds of the American Royal World Series of Barbecue, and evenings offer stunning golden sunsets over the lively city skyline. Spring, particularly April and May, brings a refreshing burst of life, with blooming flowers adding color to the lively streets and parks. Summer in Kansas City is lively and full of outdoor events, but the heat can be intense, so fall offers the best blend of pleasant weather and lively outdoor activities.

Best Months to Visit:

AprSepOct

Airport Code

MCI

Coordinates

39.10°, -94.58°

Top Things to Do

Jazz at the 18th & Vine Historic District

Let the soulful sounds of Kansas City jazz wash over you in the historic 18th & Vine District. Explore the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, then catch a live performance at a legendary club like the Mutual Musicians Foundation for an authentic experience. Insider tip: Check local listings for free outdoor concerts during summer.

Boulevard Brewing Company Tour

Dive into Kansas City's craft beer scene with a tour and tasting at Boulevard Brewing Company. Sample their award-winning brews, learn about the brewing process, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Pro tip: Go on a weekend afternoon for a more relaxed experience and consider booking a tour in advance.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art's Shuttlecock

Experience art in unexpected ways at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Admire the stunning collection, but don't miss the iconic shuttlecock sculptures in the Sculpture Park – a perfect photo opportunity. Insider tip: Visit during the free Friday evenings for a lively atmosphere.

Explore the Country Club Plaza

Wander through the Spanish-inspired architecture of the Country Club Plaza, a stunning shopping and dining district. Beyond the upscale stores, discover hidden courtyards and fountains. Pro tip: Visit during the holidays for dazzling decorations and festive events.

See all 8 things to do →

Essential Travel Tips

food

Kansas City is famous for barbecue! Skip the tourist traps and try local favorites like LC's Bar-B-Q or Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. Order burnt ends – you won't regret it. Also, be prepared for a casual, often outdoors, dining experience.

transport

The KC Streetcar is a free and easy way to get around downtown and the River Market. Download the RideKC app to track its arrival times and plan your route. It's a great option for avoiding parking hassles and traffic.

money

Many places in Kansas City accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments or tipping. Consider using a credit card that offers travel rewards to maximize your savings.

safety

Like any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in less populated areas. The ride-sharing apps Uber and Lyft are readily available and a safe alternative to driving at night.

culture

Kansas City has a thriving arts scene. Check out the Crossroads Arts District for its vibrant street art and galleries. Many galleries host free events, so check their websites or social media for schedules.

packing

Pack comfortable shoes! You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the many neighborhoods. Layers are also a good idea, as the weather can change quickly. Don't forget sunscreen, even on cloudy days.

Weather Details

Jan

4 days

Feb

4 days

Mar

7 days

Apr

9 days

May

10 days

Jun

9 days

Jul

8 days

Aug

7 days

Sep

7 days

Oct

7 days

Nov

5 days

Dec

4 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	2°C	-4°C	36°F	25°F	20mm	4 days	9.5h
Feb	5°C	-2°C	41°F	28°F	23mm	4 days	10.5h
Mar	12°C	2°C	54°F	36°F	61mm	7 days	12h
Apr	19°C	8°C	66°F	46°F	81mm	9 days	13.5h
May	24°C	14°C	75°F	57°F	102mm	10 days	15h
Jun	29°C	19°C	84°F	66°F	114mm	9 days	15.5h
Jul	32°C	22°C	90°F	72°F	99mm	8 days	15h
Aug	31°C	21°C	88°F	70°F	91mm	7 days	14h
Sep	26°C	16°C	79°F	61°F	81mm	7 days	12.5h
Oct	20°C	9°C	68°F	48°F	66mm	7 days	11h
Nov	12°C	3°C	54°F	37°F	43mm	5 days	10h
Dec	4°C	-2°C	39°F	28°F	28mm	4 days	9.5h

All Things to Do in Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Jazz at the 18th & Vine Historic District

cultural

Best time: May-September

Boulevard Brewing Company Tour

activity

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art's Shuttlecock

cultural

Best time: April-October

Explore the Country Club Plaza

shopping

Best time: November-December

West Bottoms' Urban Exploration

cultural

Venture into the West Bottoms, a historic warehouse district transformed into a unique blend of art galleries, antique shops, and trendy restaurants. Explore the First Fridays art walk for a vibrant experience. Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking!

Best time: April-October

BBQ Crawl: A Kansas City Tradition

food

Embark on a culinary adventure through Kansas City's legendary BBQ scene. Sample different styles of BBQ from iconic joints like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que and LC's Bar-B-Que. Insider tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as lines can get long.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding on the Missouri River

nature

Escape the city bustle with a relaxing kayaking or paddleboarding trip on the Missouri River. Several outfitters offer rentals and guided tours. Insider tip: Go during weekdays for a more peaceful experience and check water levels before you go.

Best time: May-September

National WWI Museum and Memorial

cultural

Step back in time at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, a world-renowned museum that tells the story of the Great War. Explore the extensive exhibits and powerful artifacts. Insider tip: Allow ample time to fully appreciate the museum's depth and consider booking a guided tour.

Getting Around Kansas City, Missouri, USA

KC Streetcar

A modern streetcar system that runs along a 2.2-mile route through the heart of downtown Kansas City, connecting Union Station, Crown Center, and the River Market. It's a great way to see the city's highlights and avoid traffic.

Cost:$1.50 per ride, day passes available

Tip:Download the RideKC app for real-time tracking and fare payment. Streetcars are frequent, but during peak hours, expect some crowding. Avoid boarding during rush hour if possible.

RideKC Bus System

Kansas City's extensive bus network covers the entire metro area, offering affordable transportation to almost any location. Routes vary widely in frequency and speed.

Cost:Varies depending on the route and distance; fares can be paid with cash or the RideKC app.

Tip:Use the RideKC app to plan your route and check real-time arrival information. Be aware that some routes are less frequent, especially outside of peak hours. Always have exact change if paying with cash.

RideKC MAX

A bus rapid transit (BRT) system offering faster, more frequent service along key corridors than the regular bus system. It features dedicated bus lanes and improved stations.

Cost:Same as regular RideKC buses

Tip:Use the RideKC app for real-time tracking. MAX routes are generally faster than regular buses, but they may not serve every neighborhood. Boarding and alighting is similar to a light rail system.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

Readily available throughout the city, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft offer convenient door-to-door transportation. This is particularly useful for late-night travel or reaching areas not served by public transport.

Cost:Varies depending on distance and demand; expect to pay more during peak hours or for longer trips.

Tip:Download the Uber and Lyft apps beforehand. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Tipping is customary for taxi rides.

Bicycles and Scooters

Kansas City boasts an expanding network of bike lanes and trails, making cycling a pleasant way to explore, especially in warmer months. Scooter-sharing services are also available in many areas.

Cost:Varies depending on the rental service and duration; usually around $1 to unlock and $0.15-$0.30 per minute.

Tip:Check the weather forecast before cycling. Be aware of traffic and always wear a helmet. Download apps like Lime or Bird for scooter rentals. Many bike paths are shared with pedestrians, so be mindful and courteous.

Kansas City Regional Airport (MCI) Transportation

MCI offers various transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, rental cars, and a public bus service (RideKC). The airport is also easily accessible via major highways.

Cost:Varies depending on the chosen method. The RideKC bus is the most affordable option.

Tip:Pre-book your ride-sharing or taxi if you're arriving during peak hours. Rental car counters are located in the terminal. Allow ample time for transportation to and from the airport, especially during rush hour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to visit Kansas City to enjoy outdoor activities?

Kansas City boasts pleasant weather for outdoor fun from April to October. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring its many parks and walking trails, while summer brings vibrant festivals and events, though it can get quite hot and humid. I'd recommend checking the specific event schedules for your interests before booking.

What's the best way to get around Kansas City without a car?

Kansas City has a decent public transportation system, but honestly, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are your best bet for convenient and affordable travel around the city. The bus system is extensive but can be time-consuming. For exploring the 18th & Vine district, walking is ideal.

Are there any unique local customs or traditions I should be aware of?

Kansas City takes its barbecue very seriously! Don't be afraid to try different styles and sauces – each establishment has its own unique approach. Also, be sure to check out the local art scene; Kansas City has a thriving creative community with many hidden galleries and studios tucked away in unexpected places.

What are some lesser-known attractions that a seasoned traveler would appreciate?

Skip the usual tourist spots and head to the West Bottoms for its unique shops and historical buildings, or explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art's stunning outdoor sculptures. For a truly local experience, check out the City Market for fresh produce and local crafts. It's a great place to soak up the atmosphere.

How safe is Kansas City, and are there any areas to avoid?

Like any major city, Kansas City has areas that are safer than others. Generally, the downtown area and popular tourist spots are well-patrolled and safe, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and use ride-sharing services rather than walking alone late at night.

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