Getting to Know Kansas City
Kansas City, MO is a thriving Heartland city with lots of great amenities, things to do, and places to eat with convenient options close to the Kansas City Convention Center and the Expo Hotels. We've compiled a list of some suggested things to do along with restaurants and bars we think Expo attendees will enjoy. We hope you will take some time during your visit to explore Kansas City and everything it has to offer.
Things to Do
Kansas City Power & Light District
Home to more than 50 bars, restaurants, and shops, the Kansas City Power & Light District is an eight-block entertainment hub unlike any other in town. KC Live!—the district’s covered outdoor courtyard—hosts more than 150 free events each year. Across the street, you’ll find one of the country’s busiest arenas, the glittering T-Mobile Center.
Kansas City River Market
Our little slice of heaven, the River Market boundaries form a wedge shape from the Missouri River south to I-70 and from the Heart of America Bridge on the east to the Bluffs on the west side. Enjoy the views, take a stroll, get a bite to eat, and learn about Kansas City’s history.
College Basketball Experience
The College Basketball Experience, a world-class entertainment facility connected to T-Mobile Center by the Grand Lobby, is two floors and 41,500 square feet of basketball exuberance. It houses the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, where visitors can honor college basketball legends and learn about the history of the game.
Kansas City Zoo
The Kansas City Zoo is bringing a completely unique experience to the Greater Kansas City area this Fall – GloWild, an immersive and breathtaking nighttime event. GloWild is a lantern festival like no other, featuring massive handmade steel and silk works of art depicting animals, local landmarks, botanicals, and Asian cultural creations. GloWild will be the largest event of its kind in the Midwest!
Places to Eat/Drink
Bristol Seafood Grill
Bristol Seafood Grill is a KC culinary landmark and home to the freshest seafood around. Try Maryland crab cakes or Georges Bank scallops along with a handcrafted signature cocktail.
801 Chophouse
The 801 Chophouse is the quintessential restaurant in the KC Power & Light District, featuring USDA Prime Steaks and white linens. Come enjoy a comfortable dining atmosphere with romantic lighting, dramatic finishes, and signature leather booths.
Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue
Featuring over 11 hickory-smoked meats, Jack Stack has the most extensive barbecue menu in Kansas City. From beef burnt ends to lamb ribs, there's something for everyone at the hands of our experienced Pit Masters. Jack Stack Barbecue has evolved into the largest hickory wood-fired cookery in the United States!
Farina
A James Beard Chef-driven restaurant specializing in delicious handcrafted Italian food. Farina’s Modern Italian menu is built around classic recipes from every region of Italy—kept pure or re-imagined by the hands and heart of Executive Chef Michael Smith. At the heart of Farina (Italian for “flour”) are its pastas.
Extra Virgin
Explore Mediterranean-forward tapas, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list at Extra Virgin. Enjoy select half-price plates during their happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday through Friday.
Le Fou Frog
A bit of France and New York City tucked away on the corner of 5th and Oak in Kansas City's River Market. Chef/Proprietor Mano Rafael and his wife, Barbara, invite you to experience fresh and elegant food, soft lighting, cozy tables, charming servers, and an atmosphere that is relaxing, fun, and totally unpretentious.
Brown & Loe
The Brown and Loe Restaurant celebrates the techniques of curing, pickling, and smoking meats, beautifully interpreted into marvelous American comfort cuisine. This is a true local venue, evidenced by the restaurant’s allegiance to the resident farmers and food artisans who supply most of the restaurant’s fresh ingredients.
Blue Nile Cafe
Kansas City's oldest Ethiopian restaurant, featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and culture. Located in the historic City Market. Known for its vegan options and traditional dishes. Join us for our popular lunch buffet or enjoy our full menu and extensive drinks selection.