Fun Things To Do In Kansas City This Summer

Summer in Kansas City is more than just BBQ, baseball, and blistering heat—though we definitely have all three in abundance. It’s a time when the city comes alive with music, markets, sports, and sunshine-filled adventures for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, a flower fanatic, a live music lover, or just looking for a way to keep the kids entertained, Kansas City delivers something for everyone.

Here are some of the best things to do in and around Kansas City this summer:

Hot Country Nights at the Power & Light District

If you're a fan of boots, beer, and live country music, then Hot Country Nights should be at the top of your summer bucket list. Held every Thursday evening in the Kansas City Power & Light District, this high-energy concert series features some of the biggest names and rising stars in country music.

Admission is usually free before 7 PM, and the atmosphere is electric—dancing, singing, cold drinks, and great food from surrounding restaurants make it a must-do summer tradition. Pro tip: show up early for the best spots and wear your dancing boots!

City Market – A Kansas City Classic

Since 1857, the historic City Market has been a hub for fresh produce, global eats, and local artisans. Every weekend, the market fills with farmers and vendors offering everything from juicy peaches and homegrown tomatoes to handmade soaps and unique art.

It’s a sensory experience you won’t want to miss—plus, with its central location near the River Market streetcar stop, it’s incredibly easy to get to. Grab brunch, stroll the stalls, and make time for a visit to the Arabia Steamboat Museum while you’re there.

Catch a Kansas City Royals Game at The K

Summer nights and baseball go hand in hand, and there’s nothing quite like cheering on the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Whether you’re a superfan or just here for the hot dogs and fireworks, "The K" is a beautiful ballpark with one of the most iconic water features in MLB.

Theme nights, Friday night fireworks, and discounted family nights make it even more enticing to spend an evening at the ballpark. Don't forget to try a classic ballpark beer and one of the stadium’s legendary BBQ offerings.

Root for the Kansas City Current

KC’s women’s professional soccer team, the Kansas City Current, now plays at the first stadium in the world built exclusively for a women’s sports team. The vibes are electric, the fans are loud, and the talent on the field is top-tier.

Catch a game at CPKC Stadium along the riverfront and be part of KC sports history in the making. Plus, it’s a great way to support women’s sports and enjoy a high-energy atmosphere—perfect for families and fans of all ages.

Double Down with Sporting KC

Don’t forget about Sporting Kansas City, the city’s Major League Soccer team. Head out to Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas, and catch a game full of fast-paced action, chants, and community pride.

Tailgating is a whole event in itself, with fans grilling, playing yard games, and celebrating before kickoff. Sporting games are also known for their affordability and family-friendliness, so it’s a great alternative to other major league sports.

KC Monarchs – Baseball with a Twist

Looking for an affordable, family-friendly baseball experience? The Kansas City Monarchs, an independent team in the American Association, play at Legends Field in KCK.

With lively entertainment between innings, local food vendors, and themed game nights, Monarchs games offer the charm of minor league baseball with a nod to KC’s rich Negro League history. It's a great way to enjoy the game without the big-league prices.

Explore Powell Gardens

Just 30 minutes southeast of Kansas City, Powell Gardens is an oasis of blooming beauty. This 970-acre botanical garden hosts special exhibits all summer long, from immersive art installations to butterfly encounters and family-friendly scavenger hunts.

Check the calendar for events like Festival of Butterflies or Glow: A Festival of Lights later in the season. It’s the perfect day trip for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone looking to escape the city for a bit.

Kauffman Memorial Garden – A Hidden Gem

Tucked beside the iconic Kauffman Foundation building near the Country Club Plaza, the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden is a stunning spot that many locals overlook. Free to the public and beautifully landscaped, it’s ideal for a quiet afternoon stroll, engagement photos, or simply escaping the heat in a shady alcove surrounded by blooms.

The garden changes with the seasons, and summer brings lush florals, colorful koi, and cascading fountains. Bring a book, a friend, or just your thoughts.

Union Station – Air Conditioning and Awe

When the heat becomes too much, head inside to Union Station, a hub of entertainment, history, and science. With its beautiful architecture and always-changing exhibits, there’s plenty to do for all ages.

Check out Science City for hands-on learning, catch a film in the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre, or visit one of the traveling exhibits. There’s also the planetarium, escape rooms, and dining options all under one massive roof.

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

One of the most beloved family attractions in the metro, Deanna Rose Farmstead in Overland Park is an adorable, interactive experience for kids and parents alike. Pet baby goats, ride a pony, go fishing, or explore old-timey general stores and blacksmith shops.

Admission is low (and even free on certain days), and there’s enough to do here to fill an entire afternoon. Bring sunscreen, and prepare to leave with tired kiddos and lots of cute pictures.

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Located in Swope Park, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium just got even better with the opening of the new Sobela Ocean Aquarium. From polar bears to penguins, gorillas to giraffes, and now sharks and jellyfish—the zoo offers a full day of family adventure.

Hop on the tram, catch an animal feeding, and don’t miss the Sky Safari for aerial views of the Africa exhibit. Memberships are a great value if you plan to return more than once during the summer.

Visit a Rooftop Bar

Kansas City’s skyline deserves to be admired with a cold drink in hand. Check out rooftop bars like:

• Percheron atop Crossroads Hotel (chic with city views)

• Nighthawk at Hotel Kansas City (live music and retro vibes)

• The Well in Waldo (neighborhood classic)

• Bier Station (okay, it’s not on a roof—but it’s a KC beer lover’s paradise)

Grab your friends, snap a sunset selfie, and soak in the summer vibes.

Ride the Streetcar – For Free!

Explore downtown Kansas City without breaking a sweat or paying for gas by hopping on the KC Streetcar, which runs from Union Station through the Crossroads and Power & Light to the River Market. It’s air-conditioned, clean, and best of all—completely free.

Make a day of it: grab brunch in the Crossroads, hop off for shopping or lunch downtown, and end with a stroll through the City Market or a drink on a rooftop.

First Fridays in the Crossroads

On the first Friday of every month, the Crossroads Arts District explodes with art, food, and music. Galleries open their doors, local vendors line the streets, food trucks roll in, and the energy is unmatched.

It’s one of the best ways to support local artists and experience the creative spirit of Kansas City. Bonus: it's also great for people-watching and discovering your next favorite local band or artisan shop.

Day Trips & Adventures Just Outside KC

If you're feeling like a quick summer escape, you're in luck. Within an hour or two of Kansas City are some fantastic day trip destinations:

• Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun – Thrill rides and water slides all in one massive amusement park.

• Weston, MO – Charming town with wineries, breweries, and a scenic bluff trail.

• Lake Jacomo or Longview Lake – Kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply a picnic by the water.

• Strawberry picking at local farms – Fresh berries and homemade jams? Yes, please.

Final Thoughts

Kansas City might be known for its jazz, BBQ, and sports, but in the summer, it's also a playground full of possibilities. From high-octane stadiums to serene gardens, from goat-petting to galaxy-gazing, there’s something magical happening every day of the week.

So grab your shades, rally your crew, and make the most of all the fun things to do in Kansas City this summer. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!