Things to do in Kansas City

Kansas City is nothing like the Cowtown many imagine it to be. Once a trading post for pioneers heading to the western US, Kansas City is a burgeoning metropolis with activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. From its sprawling suburbs to its big-city skyline, this charming, hospitable place offers visitors plenty to see and do.

18th & Vine district

Known throughout the world as the birthplace of jazz, this historic district once hosted such legendary musicians as Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Joe Turner and Charlie Parker. After a multi-million dollar makeover, the area is now home to the American Jazz Museum, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, The Blue Room Jazz Club, Horace M. Peterson III Visitors Center, and the newly-restored Gem Theater. This is considered one of the top attractions in the Kansas City area. Visiting the district is free, but individual attractions charge admission fees. Website: www.experiencekc.com/18thandvine.html

Hallmark visitors center

More than 150,000 people come to this interactive museum and informational centre each year to learn about how Hallmark cards started. It is located in downtowns Crown Center and visitors can meet some of the artists, writers and designers, view the massive collection of Keepsake ornaments and make their own gift bows to take home. Admission is free. Open from 09:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Friday; 09:30 to 16:30 on Saturdays. Phone: +1 816 274 3613; website: www.hallmarkvisitorscenter.com

Kansas City Zoo

Located in a sprawling park and attracting 700,000 visitors annually, this zoo with 1,350 animals is divided into sections named for areas of the world, from Africa and Australia to Farmland USA. Visitors can walk the 202-acre park or ride trams from one place to another. There is also a guided train tour that allows you to see the highlights of the park. Open from daily from 09:30 to 17:00 (March to October), and 10:00 to 16:00 (November to February). Phone: +1 816 513 5700; website: www.kansascityzoo.org

Union Station

Constructed in 1914, Union Station was the third largest train hub in the country, right behind New Yorks Grand Central and Pennsylvania stations. It is one of the popular attractions of the city. The station has been recently renovated, resplendent with its grandiose high ceilings, arched windows, theatres, touring exhibitions and Science City museum. Other than the sightseeing, there is plenty to do inside the station; you can browse through shops or eat at one of the many fine restaurants. Open daily from 0:600 to midnight, admission is free. Phone: +1 816 460 2020 or +1 877 724 2489; website: www.unionstation.org

Westport

This historic district is the oldest in Kansas City. The brick buildings lining these busy streets once housed supply shops that outfitted pioneers heading west on the Oregon, Santa Fe and California trails. Today, this thriving entertainment district offers everything from dining and nightlife, to galleries and special events. Some of Kansas Citys biggest celebrations occur here, including the Westport Irish Fest, Art Westport, Westport Antique Fair and the Holiday Open House. Hours vary by establishment. Phone: +1 816 561 1821; website: www.westporthistorical.org

Kansas Coliseum

Located in Valley Center, the Kansas Coliseum puts up around 300 shows every year: music concerts, sports events, trade shows and much more. More than 700,000 tourists and locals visit this venue to witness its various interesting programmes annually. Whether you buy a ticket online or at the box office, remember to take your camera along. Open from 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday, and from 08:00 to 14:00 on Saturdays. Phone: +1 316 755 1243; website: www.kansascoliseum.com

Harry S Truman farm home

Former US president Harry S Truman spent much of his childhood in Kansas City on his grandparents' farm. The house, built in 1894 for Trumans maternal grandmother, served as his residence from 1906 to 1917 when he worked the farm before leaving for the war. The estate is now owned and operated by the National Park Service. The 5.25 acre farm includes the house and several outbuildings. Open daily in May to August from 09:00 to 17:00, admission is free. Phone: +1 816 254 2720; website: www.nps.gov/hstr/index.htm

Worlds of Fun

Worlds of Fun is jam-packed with over 175 acres of exciting rides and fun-filled attractions. Roller coaster lovers can choose from the Boomerang, Timber Wolf, Spinning Dragons and Mamba, one of the worlds top 25 roller coasters. Other popular rides include Fury of the Nile and The Detonator, a ride that shoots riders up 200-foot towers. Plan on spending the entire day here, with good walking shoes. Open from April to October. Phone: +1 816 454 4545; website: www.worldsoffun.com

Vaile Mansion
Built in 1881 by local businessman Harvey Merrick Vaile, this 31-room mansion, located in historic Independence, is filled with extravagant furnishings, hand-painted murals and bright ceiling paintings. The intricate details and luxurious touches make this mansion a true original. Open in April to October from 10:00 to 16:00, Monday to Saturday; and 13:00 to 16:00 on Sundays. Admission is free. Phone: +1 816 325 7111; website: www.vailemansion.org

Blue Room

If you are looking to see Kansas City back in the day when Charlie Parker roamed the streets looking for a jazz fix, stop by the Blue Room. Although the original Blue Room, where the Bird blew saxophone is long gone, this jazz joint is a fine replica of a 1930s club. Located in the historic 18th and Vine district, it is a bit of a museum, with pictures of greats covering the walls and relics of Kansas Citys jazz era adorning the tables. Live music still gets the place swinging four nights a week. No food is available, smoking is not allowed, but a full bar is available. Open from 17:00 to 23:00, Monday to Thursday; 17:00 to 01:00 on Fridays; 19:00 to 01:00 on Saturdays. Phone: +1 816 474 2929; website: www.americanjazzmuseum.com