Things to Do in Kansas City: The Best World Cup 2026 Guide

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World Cup Info

🏟️ Host stadium: Arrowhead Stadium
📍 District / Area: Truman Sports Complex
👥 Stadium capacity: 76,416
🚶‍♂️Stadium Type: Open Air

Welcome to Kansas City: A World Cup 2026 Host City

Things to do in Kansas City

Building your itinerary with the best Things to do in Kansas City is the first step to enjoying the 2026 World Cup in the “Heart of America.” Famous for its jazz heritage, fountains, and legendary BBQ, this host city offers a warm Midwestern welcome. Before arriving, check the time in kansas city (Central Time) to sync your schedule with the matches.

Logistics are straightforward. International fans booking flights to kansas city will land at the newly renovated kansas city international airport (MCI). It serves as the gateway to the region. Be sure to pack for the shifting kansas city weather, which can be humid in summer but pleasant in the evenings.

Finding the right base is crucial. We help you navigate the top kansas city hotels, from the upscale loews kansas city hotel downtown to convenient hotels near arrowhead stadium.

Travelers often ask where is kansas city located? It sits on the border of Missouri and Kansas. Get ready to explore unique activities, from trying the famous restaurants of kansas city to visiting the historic jazz district.

SoFi Stadium (Inglewood) Capacity: 70,240 Type: Indoor-Outdoor (Roof covered)

LAX International Distance to Stadium: Only 6 km (4 miles). Transfer time: ~15 mins by car.

Santa Monica & Downtown Santa Monica for beach vibes. LA Live (Downtown) for city celebrations.

Top Things to Do in Kansas City

National WWI Museum and Memorial

Ranking top among things to do in kansas city, this is America’s only museum dedicated entirely to World War I. The towering Liberty Memorial offers the best panoramic views of the city skyline, making it a must-visit for history buffs and photographers.

Union Station Kansas City

More than just a transit hub, exploring this 100-year-old architectural masterpiece is essential. It connects directly to the streetcar line and offers science exhibits, acting as a central starting point for many things to do in kansas city.

Country Club Plaza

Inspired by Seville, Spain, this 15-block district features romantic architecture and over 40 fountains. It is the premier spot for shopping and walking, often described as an open-air museum and a highlight of things to do in kansas city.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Located in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, this museum preserves the history of African American baseball. It provides a deeply moving cultural experience that stands out as one of the most significant things to do in kansas city.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Famous for the giant shuttlecocks on its lawn, this world-class museum is free to enter. For art lovers, wandering through its vast collection is one of the best value things to do in kansas city.

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Kansas City

💎 Downtown Luxury

Loews Kansas City Hotel

The newest icon in the skyline. The loews kansas city hotel connects directly to the Convention Center. It is the top choice for fans wanting luxury amenities and walking access to the Power & Light District.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families

Great Wolf Lodge

Located near the Legends Outlets, the wolf lodge kansas city hotel features a massive indoor water park. It is perfect for families who want entertainment for the kids on non-match days.

🏟️ Closest to Stadium

Drury Inn & Suites KC Stadium

If your priority is proximity, this is a prime hotel near arrowhead stadium. It offers free hot breakfast and evening snacks, making it a high-value option for match-going fans.

🎨 Boutique & Artsy

Crossroads Hotel

Housed in a former bottling plant, this hotel captures the creative spirit of the Crossroads Arts District. It stands out among kansas city hotels for its rooftop bar, Percheron, which offers stunning city views.

🚗 Northland / Quiet

Best Western Premier Liberty

For those who prefer a quieter stay away from downtown noise, this is a great option. It provides easy highway access to reach the stadium, serving as a reliable alternative to the busy hotels near arrowhead stadium.

🏛️ Historic Charm

Hotel Phillips Curio Collection

An Art Deco gem in the heart of downtown. Staying here feels like stepping back into the 1920s jazz age. It is one of the most character-rich kansas city hotels, located steps from the streetcar line.

Best Restaurants & Food in Kansas City

⛽ Gas Station Legend

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

You cannot visit without eating here. Located in a gas station, the “Z-Man Sandwich” is world-famous. It consistently ranks #1 among restaurants of kansas city for authentic, no-frills BBQ.

🍽️ Modern BBQ

Q39 - Midtown

This spot elevates traditional BBQ to a sit-down chef-driven experience. Known for its burnt ends and wood-fired grill, Q39 has quickly become a favorite, competing with the oldest kansas city restaurants.

👑 The Original King

Arthur Bryant's Barbeque

The “King of Ribs.” Visiting this historic spot is a pilgrimage. It offers a gritty, authentic atmosphere that defines the history of restaurants of kansas city, serving fans and presidents alike since the 1900s.

🍷 Upscale BBQ

Jack Stack Barbecue (Freight House)

If you want BBQ with a wine list and great service, go here. Located in a converted train house, it offers the best lamb ribs in town and stands out among kansas city restaurants for a nice dinner out.

🥗 Fine Dining

The Antler Room

Kansas City is not just about meat. The Antler Room offers incredible small plates and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. It showcases the evolving culinary scene beyond the typical restaurants of kansas city.

☕ Best Breakfast/Cafe

Messenger Coffee Co.

A three-story bakery and roastery with a rooftop deck. It is the perfect place to start your day. Their fresh pastries and bread make it a morning staple among kansas city restaurants.

Kansas City Fan Experience: Play, Watch & Chant

📺 Official Watch Party

Power & Light District (KC Live!)

KC Live! Block

The “Living Room” of the city. This covered outdoor block features massive screens and is the heartbeat of fan celebrations. It will likely host the main Fan Fest, replicating the roar of the arrowhead stadium capacity crowd downtown.

Watch

👟 Training Grounds

Swope Soccer Village

Swope Park Fields

Play where the pros train. This complex features 9 full-size fields and is the training ground for Sporting KC. It is the premier spot for fan tournaments and pickup games on high-quality grass.

Play

🥁 The Blue Hell

The Cauldron (Sporting KC)

Local Supporter Culture

Kansas City is the “Soccer Capital of America.” The local supporters, “The Cauldron,” bring intense energy. Experiencing their chants gives you a taste of the passion that will fill the arrowhead stadium capacity during the World Cup.

Culture

Best Time to Visit Kansas City

The World Cup Season ⚽🔥

Summer Heat

June – August

20°C - 33°C

Expect heat and humidity. The kansas city weather in summer is typically hot, perfect for evening matches and cold drinks on patios. Thunderstorms can occur, so packing a poncho is smart.

The Sweet Spot 🌿

Autumn/Late Spring

May or September

15°C - 25°C

This is arguably the best weather. The humidity drops, and the city is full of festivals. The kansas city weather becomes ideal for walking the outdoor districts like the Plaza without breaking a sweat.

Winter / Budget ☔

Winter Chill

November – March

-5°C - 10°C

Prices drop significantly. While the kansas city weather can be freezing with occasional snow and ice, the indoor museums and jazz clubs remain cozy and welcoming for budget travelers.

Getting Around in Kansas City

✈️ New Terminal

MCI Airport & Rideshare

The new kansas city international airport (MCI) terminal makes arrival easy. Unlike other cities, there is no direct train to downtown yet. You will need to book an Uber, Lyft, or rent a car from the kansas city airport rental center to reach the city.

Download the “Iris” app for on-demand affordable transit in specific zones if you want to save money on Uber.

🚃 Free Ride

KC Streetcar

The best way to move downtown. The KC Streetcar is completely free to ride. It connects the River Market, Power & Light, and Union Station. It runs frequently and is safe, clean, and perfect for tourists.

Use the streetcar to hop between hotels and restaurants, but you will need a car or shuttle to get out to Arrowhead Stadium.

City Map Kansas City

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Kansas City Fan Essentials

Your Guide to the Heart of America

Where exactly is Kansas City located?

It is unique! Travelers often ask where is located kansas city because it spans two states. The downtown and World Cup action are in Missouri. If you are checking maps or mailing items, the main downtown kansas city usa zip code is 64105. Understanding where is kansas city on the map helps you avoid booking hotels in the wrong state far from the venue.

How big is the stadium and where do I buy tickets?

The arrowhead stadium capacity is over 76,000, making it one of the loudest venues in the world. For tickets, ALWAYS use official FIFA platforms. Avoid searching on sites like craigslist kansas city for tickets, as scams are common. Trust official channels to ensure your entry into the match.

What should I know before flying in?

Book your flights to kansas city (MCI) early. Upon arrival, sync your watch; the time in kansas city is US Central Time. Be ready for the kansas city weather, which can be unpredictable. Summer storms are common, so check the forecast daily before heading to the stadium.

What is there to do besides soccer?

The list of things to do in kansas city focuses heavily on music and food. You must explore the Jazz District and try the restaurants of kansas city, specifically the BBQ joints. It is a city that rewards those who love culture and heavy meals!

Is it better to stay downtown or near the stadium?

Most fans prefer downtown kansas city hotels for the nightlife and streetcar access. However, if match day is your only priority, booking hotels near arrowhead stadium can save you travel time, though dining options there are more limited compared to the city center.

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