How to Get Around in Kansas City?

If you’re considering visiting Kansas City or have recently moved to the area, you’re likely wondering how to get around. Kansas City spans both sides of the Kansas City-Missouri River line and is a bustling city that features museums, galleries, and parks -all of which you’ll want to visit on your visit or stay in the area. Thankfully, there are plenty of transportation options no matter where you’re headed.

Public Transportation

Kansas City is served by both the metro area’s Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) system and the intercity Missouri Public Transportation System.

The KCATA system is comprised of buses and trolleys that services dozens of routes throughout the metro area. A single ride costs $2.75, while a day pass will run you $5.50 and an unlimited 31-day pass is $74. Additional information for KCATA can be found at kcata.org.

The Missouri Public Transportation System is operated by the Missouri Department of Transportation and serves the state’s cities outside the KC Metro Area with both bus routes and light rail lines. Service to a place like St. Louis requires a longer ride on a Missouri Public Transportation System bus than KCATA, but exact schedule and prices can be found on their website.

Ride-Sharing Services

The prevalence of ride-sharing applications such as Uber, Lyft, and various local Kansas City based providers make getting around a lot easier in Kansas City -all you need is your phone to request a ride. Prices vary by provider, but all offer initial discounts to attract new customers. Uber is often the most cost-effective, with Lyft running slightly higher in terms of pricing and local options offering the best bargain for in-town trips. In addition, passengers can take advantage of carpooling options for both Uber and Lyft which allow you to share your ride with others going in the same direction -saving you money and helping out the environment.

Taxi Services

The classic taxi is still alive and well for those who desire a simple, direct solution for getting around town. Like ride-sharing companies, taxi fares will vary by provider although all should have similar rates posted on the outside of their vehicles. Customers can also pick up free “Taxicab Tokens” at various locations throughout the city which will allow them to get discounted rides when presented to the driver when they settle the bill.

Conclusion

No matter where you’re headed in Kansas City, rest assured that there are plenty of transportation options available to you. Whether you opt for a traditional taxi, get an Uber or Lyft, or use public transportation -you’ll have your choice of affordable ways to get around town.

An Insider’s Guide on How to Get Around in Kansas City

Kansas City is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of America’s Midwest. The city is full of character and attractions that make it an exciting destination for tourists. This insider’s guide will help you navigate the city, explore the top tourist attractions, dine in some of the best restaurants, indulge in local cultural experiences, learn about the rich local history, and explore some off-the-beaten-path locations.

Transportation

Kansas City is a car-centric city, but there are several public transportation options available to visitors. The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) operates a bus system that connects different areas of the city. Visitors can also use the KC Streetcar, which runs for 2 miles through the city’s downtown area, connecting some of the major downtown attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Top Tourist Attractions

One of the must-visit tourist attractions in Kansas City is the National World War I Museum and Memorial. This top-rated museum has a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of World War I. Another top attraction is the iconic Union Station, a historic landmark now featuring exhibits, events, and plenty of dining options. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a world-class museum with an expansive collection of art encompassing different historical periods. Other notable places to visit include the Arabia Steamboat Museum, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library.

Dining

Kansas City is known for its barbecue, and visitors must try some of the city’s best. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Q39, and Arthur Bryant’s are top-rated barbecue joints that serve up finger-licking good dishes. For a taste of Kansas City’s craft beer scene, visit Boulevard Brewing Company, one of the largest craft breweries in the Midwest. The city is also a hub for local coffee roasters, with Messenger Coffee and Thou Mayest Coffee Roasters being two of the top spots.

Cultural Experiences

Kansas City is full of culture, and visitors have a range of options to experience it. The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class facility where visitors can catch a range of performances from the Kansas City Symphony, the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and the Kansas City Ballet. The American Jazz Museum is the perfect place to discover and learn about the history of jazz, one of Kansas City’s most influential contributions to American music. Visitors can also attend the First Friday event in Kansas City’s Crossroads Arts District, where galleries and studios open their doors to the public to showcase the city’s thriving arts scene.

Local History

Kansas City has a rich history that visitors can explore. One must-visit historic site is the 18th and Vine District, where the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum are located. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures showcases the history of toys and dollhouses, and the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City offers visitors an opportunity to see old currency, learn about the history of money and see the process of money creation. Visitors can also take a stroll through the Westport district, where the history of the Old West comes alive.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Visitors seeking unique experiences in Kansas City should explore some off-the-beaten-path destinations in the city. The Boulevard Drive-In Theatre is a historic drive-in movie theater that has been entertaining visitors for more than 70 years. The Roasterie Factory Café is a must-visit for coffee lovers, where they can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the coffee roasting process. The West Bottoms neighborhood, once an industrial area, now boasts antique shops, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. Visitors can also take a stroll through the Urban Labyrinth, a beautiful maze of hedges in the heart of downtown Kansas City.

Conclusion

Kansas City offers a unique blend of history, culture, and attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. This insider’s guide on how to get around the city can help tourists make the most of their visit by exploring some of the top tourist attractions, dining in some of the best restaurants, indulging in local cultural experiences, learning about the rich local history, and exploring some off-the-beaten-path locations. With its friendly locals and charm, Kansas City is a lovely destination to explore and fall in love with.