5 Ways to Safely Explore KC This Summer
Although this summer’s adventures may look different than anticipated, Kansas City offers plenty of ways to exercise, indulge in artistic experiences and sample a few of the region’s cultural cornerstones, all while minimizing risk for yourself and those around you.
Before you go: The Kansas City area continues to implement measures designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including Visit KC's KC Clean Commitment intended to guide you to local businesses that have committed to upholding a specific set of health and safety standards.
Several destinations require the use of masks in public spaces, including the City of Kansas City, Missouri and the State of Kansas.
Stay safe and get active this summer with these five ideas for local exploration.
Find a New Favorite Outdoor Spot
There’s no shortage of sprawling outdoor spaces accessible by car or bike around Kansas City. Rent a kayak and spend an afternoon on the water at Shawnee Mission Park, enjoy an urban adventure at Loose Park or Berkley Riverfront Park, or lace up your hiking boots at destinations around the region like Swope Park and Weston Bend State Park.
Find more of KC’s idyllic outdoor spaces here.
Embark on a DIY Mural Tour
Everywhere you look, KC’s walls and buildings are adorned with bright colors and intriguing imagery. Pick a neighborhood and stroll the streets while you seek out murals of all shapes and sizes. The East Crossroads, Downtown KCK and the River Market are a few destinations particularly populated with murals and other eye-catching artwork.
Get started with a few of Kansas City’s most iconic murals.
Plan a Road Trip (in Your Own City)
Picking a destination for your next day trip? All around KC, you’ll find family-friendly hubs and outdoor escapes that can easily be reached in less than an hour.
Downtown Overland Park delivers on convenience and charm. With Strang Hall’s sprawling outdoor dining space and pick-me-ups like Parisi Coffee and The Upper Crust Bakery on every corner, it’s easy to spend your day strolling the neighborhood. In Olathe, soak in the serene sights of Lake Olathe followed by legendary barbecue at Joe’s Kansas City, or pick up a few six-packs from North Kansas City’s local breweries.
Try Something New in the Barbecue Capital of the World
With more than 110 barbecue restaurants in the Kansas City area, including dozens that are currently offering carryout service, expand your palate for KC’s most famous cuisine by indulging in a selection of smoked fare from a few new joints.
Find your next feast by downloading the KC BBQ Experience app.
Visit Kansas City's Historical Destinations
From iconic sights like the National WWI Museum and Memorial to interactive experiences found at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, there’s no shortage of local history to be revisited. Whether you decide to uncover KC’s roots in fashion manufacturing, tap into its place as a brewing and distilling hub in the early 1900s or follow the legacy of hometown President Harry S. Truman through Independence, read up on the region’s past and venture out to see firsthand the traces of history that remain.
Looking for more inspiration? Find up-to-date information on what’s open around Kansas City here.