Exploring Kansas City: A Weekend at the Nelson-Atkins Museum and Beyond

This past weekend, I finally had the chance to visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, where I was eager to see the exquisite Water Moon Guanyin and the stunning murals from Guangsheng Temple. Originally, I thought Kansas City would have little to offer, but to my surprise, there was plenty to see and do!

1. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

This museum truly excels in its exhibits! From the Water Moon Guanyin statue to the serene murals and the breathtaking medieval cloisters, each display offers a strong visual impact. The museum is vast, which means you could easily spend an entire day lost in its wonders!

2. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

While I visited, the main hall was undergoing renovations, so unfortunately, I didn’t get to see it. However, the creative process fascinated me as I witnessed artists painting new murals right in front of my eyes. The museum also has a unique café; even if you’re not dining, it’s worth stepping inside. Outside, numerous sculptures adorn the premises, and one particularly poignant piece, “The Crying Man,” resonated deeply with many visitors, leading to some humorous self-identification! 😂

3. Arabia Steamboat Museum

This intriguing museum showcases artifacts from a steamboat that sank in the Missouri River in 1856, laden with 200 tons of cargo. The treasures unearthed from this ship offer a unique glimpse into life in America before the Civil War, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

4. River Market

Located right next to the Arabia Steamboat Museum, the River Market is bustling with local vendors, especially on weekends. Saturday is the best day to visit for the most vibrant market experience—definitely a spot to indulge in some local eats!

5. Country Club Plaza

Known as the world’s first shopping plaza with parking, Country Club Plaza is a high-end shopping destination with beautiful Moorish architecture, featuring stunning fountains and sculptures. It’s well worth a stroll!

6. Other Recommendations

6.1 Running at Mill Creek Park

In between the Nelson and Country Club, you’ll find Mill Creek Park, boasting a “cushioned path” perfect for runners. It’s a beautiful area to take a lap!

6.2 Fountain City

Kansas City lives up to its nickname as “Fountain City,” with over 200 fountains scattered throughout. The most famous fountain is at the southern end of Mill Creek Park, and it’s a detailed sculpture that deserves a look. We spent quite a while admiring it.

6.3 Coffee Shops

I sampled coffee from two local cafés: Roasterie and Messenger. While locals rave about Messenger, I personally found Roasterie to be the better choice!

6.4 Barbecue

During my flight, I chatted with locals who are proud of their barbecue culture. They recommended Q39 and Jack Stack. I’ve heard good things about the Overland Park location of Q39, while it’s a pity I didn’t get to try Jack Stack. To be honest, the barbecue I had was somewhat average, despite the hype.

Kansas City is full of unexpected gems and should definitely be on your travel radar! From art to cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 🌆❤️