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From iconic institutions to buzzy new destinations, Kansas City’s summer attractions invite you to explore, linger, and experience the city in a whole new way.

History takes on a powerful, immersive edge at Union Station with The Berlin Wall. A World Divided, opening May 29. This North American premiere invites visitors to step inside one of the 20th century’s most defining stories, told through more than 200 original artifacts and even massive sections of the Wall itself. Moving through four galleries, you’ll experience life before, during, and after the divide—complete with personal stories, daring escapes, and the global tension of the Cold War brought vividly to life. It’s equal parts emotional and eye-opening, the kind of exhibit that lingers long after you leave. Add in Union Station’s grand setting, and this becomes more than a museum visit—it’s a can’t-miss summer experience that feels both deeply human and globally significant. unionstation.org

At Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, summer 2026 is defined by a towering new arrival: the debut of its expanded giraffe habitat, designed to bring guests eye-to-eye with one of the savanna’s most iconic species. The thoughtfully reimagined space blends immersive viewing with conservation storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on these long-necked ambassadors and the ecosystems they inhabit. Beyond the exhibit, the Zoo’s summer calendar hums with energy, from family-friendly programming to after-hours experiences. Chief among them is Jazzoo (June 5), the Zoo’s signature adults-only evening that pairs live music, local cuisine, and cocktails with a festive, philanthropic spirit. Together, the new habitat and seasonal events position the Zoo as both a place of discovery and a lively social destination—where education, entertainment, and conservation meet under the summer sun. kansascityzoo.org

At Rock Island Bridge, summer feels like a rooftop party—just with better views. Suspended above the Kansas River, this reimagined rail bridge trades trains for tacos, cocktails, and a steady soundtrack of live music. It’s the kind of place where you can wander with a drink in hand, catch golden hour over the skyline, and linger long after the lights come on. With its industrial edge and festival-like energy, the bridge blurs the line between hangout and happening—equal parts scenic overlook and social scene.
Whether you’re meeting friends, sampling local bites, or just soaking in the atmosphere, the experience is the draw. Here, Kansas City doesn’t just cross the river—it turns it into a destination. rockislandkc.com

Step into history—and a little summer fun—at the Truman Library & Museum, where the past feels anything but static. This season, United We Play: Kicking It with the Trumans (now through December 30) adds a playful twist, exploring the Trumans’ love of sports and connection—perfectly timed to echo the global energy of soccer fans arriving to the city. Meanwhile, Opening the Vault: The Story of US (now through May 24) offers a rare chance to see historic documents seldom displayed outside Washington, D.C., as part of the broader Story of US exhibition tracing America’s journey toward its 250th anniversary. Together, they create a dynamic mix of playfulness and perspective—perfect for a summer visit that’s as engaging as it is inspiring. trumanlibrary.gov

There’s nothing quite like a summer night with the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium—and in 2026, the experience feels fresher than ever. With newly adjusted outfield dimensions bringing more home-run thrills and edge-of-your-seat action, every inning packs a little extra punch. Off the field, the ballpark is stepping up its culinary game, too, with an expanded lineup of local-inspired eats and creative concessions that go well beyond the classic hot dog. Circle a Memorial Day showdown against the New York Yankees on your calendar for a marquee matchup, then settle in with a cold drink, a great bite, and those iconic fountain views. It’s baseball, Kansas City-style! mlb.com/royals

Atlas9 is an immersive narrative experience inside a transformed ’90s movie theater, where scenes from “forgotten films” have come to life. Spanning 45,000 square feet, the venue invites guests to dive into interactive installations, uncover hidden storylines, and engage with performers as a mysterious tale unfolds. Visitors can enjoy food and drinks from a concessions stand, pizza parlor, or hidden speakeasy, then step into a 240-seat auditorium for live shows or a 1930s jazz club for music and performances. Special













events add even more intrigue, from nostalgic Movie Nite screenings to Grown-Ups Only evenings that turn up the energy with a more mature, after-dark vibe. A classic arcade, secret story points, and a clandestine government agency add layers of discovery, while three distinct narrative arcs ensure no two visits are alike. It’s not just a night out—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. atlas9.com

Kansas City’s summer is about to get a new gathering spot with the upcoming debut of Boulevard Yard from Boulevard Brewing Company, slated to open ahead of the global soccer tournament. Once it arrives, expect an open-air playground buzzing with energy—lawn games, live music, pop-up events, and plenty of room to linger over a Tank 7 or seasonal pour. It promises to be casual, social, and distinctly Kansas City: the kind of place where afternoons stretch into evenings and strangers become fast friends. Whether you’re planning a prematch meetup or simply chasing a perfect summer night, Boulevard Yard is poised to become the city’s go-to hangout—cold beer in hand and nowhere else to be. boulevard.com

On June 21, 2026, Make Music Kansas City turns the city into one big, joyful stage—where sidewalks, parks, and unexpected corners pulse with live sound from morning to night. Coordinated by Kansas City Parks + Recreation, this free, all-ages celebration invites everyone to listen, play, and join in, whether you’re catching a polished performance or stumbling upon a spontaneous jam session. And with the global spotlight shining on Kansas City, the day feels even more electric—an open-air soundtrack welcoming visitors from around the world. It’s vibrant, a little unpredictable, and completely contagious: the kind of day where you follow the music, discover something new, and fall a little more in love with the city. makemusicday.org

day’s worth of reasons to stay. cityofls.net/green-street

A summer visit to the Country Club Plaza is equal parts stroll, sip, and discovery—especially in 2026, as a fresh wave of openings adds new energy to this iconic destination. Between fountain-lined walks and sun-dappled patios, you’ll find stylish newcomers like MERSEA, opening its first brick-andmortar shop, alongside fashion-forward boutiques, and incoming concepts like J.H. & Sons and the dreamy pop-up LoveShackFancy. Dining is evolving, too, with spots like Vertice Italian bringing a modern, cocktail-forward vibe to the mix. Start with shopping, linger over lunch or drinks, then settle in as golden hour washes the Plaza in that unmistakable glow. With new places to explore around every corner, it’s the perfect blend of timeless Kansas City charm and just-arrived-now excitement. countryclubplaza.com

At the National WWI Museum and Memorial, summer unfolds as both a celebration and a journey through history. During the global soccer tournament, the grounds transform into a high-energy outdoor watch party with big screens, live music, and an international crowd. Inside, The Beautiful Game exhibition connects soccer’s worldwide passion to themes of unity and culture, while the Paris at War exhibit offers a vivid, immersive look at life in a city shaped by conflict. It’s a dynamic mix of spectacle and reflection, all set against one of the best skyline views in town. Come for the excitement, stay for the stories—you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for both the past and the moment Kansas City is living right now. theworldwar.org
There’s a new buzz in Lee’s Summit, and it’s all happening at Green Street—a fresh, lively destination that’s quickly becoming the place to gather. Think openair energy with a neighborhood feel: local eats, drinks, and hangouts all stitched together into one easy, walkable scene. By day, the Green Street Market brings the space to life with rows of local growers, fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan finds—perfect for a leisurely stroll with coffee in hand. By night, it shifts gears into a social hub with live music, patio drinks, and that easy, linger-a-little-longer vibe. Whether you’re stocking up on local flavor or settling in for an evening out, Green Street delivers a full

Need something different to do this summer? You don’t have to look far— Jackson County’s parks are just a short drive away, offering something for everyone. With nearly 22,000 acres of outdoor space—one of the largest county park systems in the country— the parks provide a playground for land and water lovers alike. Spend the day hiking, biking, or horseback riding, or head to the water at Lake Jacomo , Blue Springs Lake , or Longview Lake , where full-service marinas, boat rentals, and public beaches make it easy to dive into summer. Cast a line, set up a picnic, or simply relax by the shore. Feeling more active? Hit the golf course or join a game on the field. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a laid-back escape, Jackson County Parks + Rec delivers the kind of easy, outdoorsy fun that turns a simple day into a summer tradition. makeyourdayhere.com




PARADE OF HEARTS is one of the most unique ways for visitors to experience Kansas City. The popular public art project features 150 unique heart sculptures placed throughout the metro, turning the region into an open-air gallery filled with color, creativity, and local pride.
The hearts offer a fun and memorable way to explore Kansas City beyond the usual attractions. Visitors can discover sculptures in downtown districts, shopping areas, parks, and surrounding communities while experiencing the personality of each area along the way. Every heart is designed by a local artist, making each piece a one-of-a-kind reflection of the city’s culture, history, and spirit.
Since launching in 2022, Parade of Hearts has become a favorite attraction for both locals and tourists, inspiring photo stops, day trips, and neighborhood exploration. It also adds to the excitement as Kansas City welcomes visitors from around the globe.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, following the hearts is a great way to experience the warmth, creativity, and community spirit that make Kansas City special.












SINCE ITS INCEPTION, Starlight has become a cornerstone of the community, capturing millions with unforgettable performances from its historic stage in Swope Park. Between hundreds of Broadway musicals, popular concerts, and more, Kansas Citians and patrons from all throughout the country have enjoyed a show under the










SUMMER IN INDEPENDENCE offers an easy mix of history, local flavor, and new ways to explore. Start your day walking in the footsteps of President Truman, then spend the afternoon browsing locally owned shops and trying something new to eat.
This season, there’s even more to experience with our new interactive trails. Visitors can sign up, follow themed trails across Independence, and check in at each stop along the way. As you explore, you’ll earn points that can be redeemed for prizes—making it a fun summer challenge and a great way to discover places you might not expect.
Throughout the summer, the energy builds with lively gatherings that bring people together around the world’s game. It’s an easy place to join in, whether you’re a dedicated fan or just along for the atmosphere.
And as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, there’s no better place to reflect and celebrate. With deep roots in American history and a strong sense of community, Independence offers a meaningful backdrop for marking the moment.
Come see what you can find, take your time, and make the most of summer right here. Start exploring today at VisitIndependence.com




The Pigeon Comes to Kansas City: A Mo Willems Exhibit May 23 - September 7
Kansas City Irish Fest September 4 - 6
Hallmarket: A Hallmark Art Festival September 19
KC Oktoberfest October 2 - 3
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer October 24
Arrival of the Mayor's Christmas Tree November 5
Crown Center Ice Terrace 2026 - 2027 Season
November 6, 2026 - March 14, 2027
Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Event November 27
Christmas at Crown Center November 27 - December 31
Hallmark Christmas Experience Weekends November 27 - December 20
Cuisine for every taste, entertainment for all ages, and unique finds at one-of-a-kind shops—nowhere



FOR A COMPLETELY KANSAS CITY EXPERIENCE, Crown Center is your go-to destination this season. With the city buzzing from global soccer excitement, it is the perfect place to keep the energy going with local shopping, dining, family-friendly attractions, theaters, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Step into the imaginative world of The Pigeon Comes to Kansas City: A Mo Willems Exhibit, a free exhibit open May 23 through September 7. Beloved characters like The Pigeon, Elephant & Piggie, and Knuffle Bunny come to life through hands-on activities and creative play, making it a must-visit for families.
Continue the adventure at SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium or build and explore at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. Get creative at Kaleidoscope, a free hands-on art studio for kids, or discover the story behind the iconic Hallmark brand at the Hallmark Visitors Center. Then dive into Kansas City’s rich food culture at the world’s first Museum of BBQ
This summer, Crown Center also becomes the Center of Summer Soccer, featuring a 90-foot mural, a North America host city map, international flags, 15-foot inflatable soccer ball, and family-friendly games that celebrate the global spirit of the sport.


















































































































DIDN’T JUST RING. IT WAS WRITTEN. FREEDOM DIDN’T JUST RING. IT WAS WRITTEN.








































































































They didn’t just ring the bell. They backed it up. And you can see nearly two dozen documents that formed a nation, together for the first time in a lifetime. Only at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum. They didn’t just ring the bell. They backed it up. And you can see nearly two dozen documents that formed a nation, together for the first time in a lifetime. Only at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum.










| APRIL 20-MAY 24











AIRO | KANSAS CITY HELICOPTER TOURS
10 Richards Rd, Kansas City , MO 64116 816-499-3342 • iflyairo.com/kansas-city
AMELIA EARHART HANGAR MUSEUM
16701 286th Rd, Atchison, KS 66002 913-372-0021 • ameliaearharthangarmuseum.org
ANITA B. GORMAN CONSERVATION DISCOVERY CENTER
4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110 816-759-7300 • mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter ATLAS9
1100 N 98th St, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-708-8081 • atlas9.com
BLADE & TIMBER
1303 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City , MO 64105
816-343-8489 • bladeandtimber.com/locations/ kansas-city-power-and-light
BOULEVARD BREWING CO. BEER HALL 2534 Madison Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-701-7247 • boulevard.com/visit-us
BREAKOUT KC ESCAPE ROOM
River Market: 114 W. 3rd St. #102, Kansas City, MO 64105 Park Place: 11535 Ash St., Leawood, KS 66211 (MO) 816-945-2633 • (KS) 913-298-1081 breakoutkc.com
CAROLYN’S PUMPKIN PATCH
17607 NE 52nd St, Liberty, MO 64068 816-781-9196 • carolynspumpkinpatch.com
CHILLICOTHE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 100 Elm Street, Chillicothe, MO 64601 660-240-0093 • visitchillicothe.com
CLAY COUNTY PARKS & GO NORTH KC 17201 Paradesian St, Smithville, MO 64089 816-407-3400 • smithvillelakecamping.com
THE COLLEGE BASKETBALL EXPERIENCE AND (MEN’S) NATIONAL COLLEGIATE BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME 1401 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106 816-949-7500 • collegebasketballexperience.com
COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA
47th & Broadway Kansas City, MO 64112 816-753-0100 • countryclubplaza.com
CROWN CENTER
2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-274-8444 • crowncenter.com




EXPLORE LEE’S SUMMIT
220 SE Green Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 816-969-1008 • lstourism.com
FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF KANSAS CITY MONEY MUSEUM
1 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-881-2683 • kansascityfed.org/moneymuseum
FULL MOON HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS
1401 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64102 816-842-4280 or 816-842-0320 • fullmoonprod.com
HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM
500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 816-268-8200 • trumanlibrary.gov
HISTORIC LECOMPTON
640 E Woodson Ave, Lecompton, KS 66050 785-887-6148 • lecomptonkansas.com
HOLLADAY DISTILLERY
One McCormick Lane, Weston, MO 64098 816-640-3056 • holladaydistillery.com
HOLLYWOOD CASINO AT KANSAS SPEEDWAY
777 Hollywood Casino Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-288-9300 • hollywoodcasinokansas.com
JUNE EVENTS AT JESSE JAMES BIRTHPLACE
June 13 • 10am – 3pm
Crooked River Posse Reenactment Group
1pm Speaker Tom Rafiner talking about Order#11
June 16 • 10am
Speaker Tom Drennan talking about Guardian Guerrillas
June 27 • 10am
Speaker Dr. Loftin Woodiel talking about Quantrill
JUNE EVENTS AT JESSE JAMES BANK MUSEUM
June 15–30
Traveling exhibit “Waging Wars”
June 6 • 10am
Speaker Jean Warren talking about Historic Quilts
HY-VEE ARENA
1800 Genessee St, Kansas City, MO 64102 816-505-0404 • hy-veearena.com
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE ASSOCIATION
(HISTORIC DOWNTOWN)
106 S Liberty St., Independence, MO 64050 816-381-7181 • indepsquare.com
JACKSON COUNTY PARKS + RECREATION
22807 SW Woods Chapel Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015 816-503-4800 • MakeYourDayHere.com
JESSE JAMES BIRTHPLACE
21216 Jesse James Farm Rd, Kearney, MO 64060
Jesse James Bank Museum, 103 N Water St, Liberty, MO 64068 (Farm) 816-736-8500 • (Bank) 816-736-8510 jessejamesmuseum.org
JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM
8788 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212
913-826-2787 • jcprd.com/museum
KC FRINGE FESTIVAL
PO Box 415001, Kansas City, MO 64141 646-844-1505 • kcfringe.org
KC WINE CO AND KC PUMPKIN PATCH
13875 S Gardner Rd #1, Olathe, KS 66061 913-484-6251 • kcwineco.com and kcpumpkinpatch.com
KANSAS CITY BALLET
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-931-8993 • kcballet.org
KANSAS CITY CARRIAGES
Nichols and Pennsylvania on the Country Club Plaza 816-531-1999 • kccarriages.com
KANSAS CITY CURRENT
CPKC Stadium, 1460 E Front St, Kansas City, MO 64120 913-374-0233 • kansascitycurrent.com
KANSAS CITY MONARCHS BASEBALL
Legends Field, 1800 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-328-5618 • monarchsbaseball.com
KANSAS CITY PARKS & RECREATION
4600 E. 63rd Street, Kansas City, MO 64130 816-513-7500 • kcparks.org
KANSAS CITY RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
633 N 130th St, Bonner Springs, KS 66012 913-721-2110 • kcrenfest.com
KANSAS CITY REPERTORY THEATRE
Spencer Theatre, 4949 Cherry St, Kansas City, MO 64110
Copaken Stage, 1 H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-235-2700 • kcrep.org
KANSAS CITY ROYALS
Kauffman Stadium, One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129 816-921-8000 • royals.com
KANSAS CITY ZOO & AQUARIUM
6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132 816-595-1234 • kansascityzoo.org
KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-994-7222 • kauffmancenter.org
KEMPER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART 4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111 816-753-5784 • kemperart.org
LEGOLAND ® DISCOVERY CENTER
2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-556-3958 • legolanddiscoverycenter.com/kansas-city
MAHAFFIE STAGECOACH STOP & FARM
1200 Kansas City Rd, Olathe, KS 66061 913-971-5111 • mahaffie.org
MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT
8081 NW Roanridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64151 816-281-2020 • mainevent.com
THE MIDLAND THEATRE
1228 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-283-9900 • midlandkc.com continued







MIDWEST TRUST CENTER AT JOHNSON
COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210 913-469-4445 • jccc.edu/mtc
THE MIDWEST GENEALOGY CENTER
3440 S Lee’s Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055 816-252-7228 • mymcpl.org/genealogy
THE MUSEUM OF KANSAS CITY
3218 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-702-7700 • museumofkansascity.org
MUSIC THEATER HERITAGE
Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd, #301, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-221-6987 • mthkc.com
NATIONAL FRONTIER TRAILS MUSEUM
Truman Memorial Building, 416 W Maple Ave, Independence, MO 64050 816-325-7575 • ci.independence.mo.us/ParksAndRec
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TOYS / MINIATURES
5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112 816-235-8000 • toyandminiaturemuseum.org
NATIONAL WWI MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL
2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108
816-888-8100 • theworldwar.org
NEGRO LEAGUES BASEBALL MUSEUM
1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
816-221-1920 • nlbm.com
THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART
4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111
816-751-1278 • nelson-atkins.org
PARADE OF HEARTS
Kansas City Region • theparadeofhearts.com
PLANET COMICON KC AND PLANET ANIME KC
Bartle Hall, 301 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64105 planetcomicon.com and planetanimekc.com
RAYTOWN CHAMBER & TOURISM
5909 Raytown Trafficway, Raytown, MO 64133
816-353-8500 • visitraytown.com
ROCK ISLAND BRIDGE
1799 American Royal Dr, Kansas City, KS 64102 913-895-1106 • rockislandkc.com
SEA LIFE AQUARIUM KANSAS CITY
2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-471-4386 • visitsealife.com/kansas-city
SINKERS LOUNGE
53 W 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105 913-374-0105 • sinkerslounge.com
STARLIGHT THEATRE
4600 Starlight Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132
816-363-7827 • kcstarlight.com
TANGER KANSAS CITY AT LEGENDS
1843 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111
913-788-3700 • tanger.com/kansascity
T-SHOTZ
660 NW Metro North Dr, Kansas City, MO 64155 816-702-1320 • tshotz.com
UNION STATION AND SCIENCE CITY
30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-460-2000 • unionstation.org
VISIT KANSAS CITY, KANSAS
727 Minnesota Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101 913-321-5800 • visitkck.com
WATKINS WOOLEN MILL STATE HISTORIC SITE
26600 Park Road North, Lawson, MO 64062 816-580-3387 • mostateparks.com/park/watkinswoolen-mill-state-historic-site
WESTPORT KANSAS CITY
4050 Pennsylvania Ave Suite M100, Kansas City, MO 64111
816-531-4370 • westportkcmo.com
ZONA ROSA
8640 N. Dixson Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64153 816-587-8180 • zonarosa.com

AGENDA KC | agendausa.com
CITY OF BONNER SPRINGS | bonnersprings.org
CTM MEDIA GROUP | ctmmedia.com and visitorfun.com
FASONE & PARTNERS | fasonepartners.com
IN KANSAS CITY MAGAZINE | inkansascity.com
KC GOING PLACES | kcparent.com
LEAVENWORTH CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU | visitleavenworthks.com
MADDEN MEDIA | vacationistusa.com and maddenmedia.com
MOD OP | KANSAS CITY | modop.com
PAGE COMMUNICATIONS | pagecomms.com
VICTORY PYROTECHNICS AND SPECIAL EFFECTS | victorypyro.com
VISIT INDEPENDENCE | VisitIndependence.com
VISIT KC | visitkc.com
VISIT MO | visitmo.com

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@GKAAAttractions
Greater Kansas City Attractions Association members include local attractions from throughout the metropolitan Kansas City area.
GKCAA gives away tickets and items from the most exciting venues in the Kansas City area! Simply follow the Association on Facebook or Instagram and you’ll have the opportunity to experience the finest attractions in the region!








