A New Era for Kansas City
If you’ve ever wondered is Kansas City worth visiting, 2025 is the year to find out. Kansas City is embracing an energetic transformation with expanded entertainment districts, more bikeable spaces, and modern architecture blending with its historic roots.
The Crossroads Arts District has exploded with new murals, artisan shops, and rotating gallery exhibits. In the Power & Light District, expect more open-air concerts, food festivals, and rooftop lounges than ever before. Kansas City isn’t just a great stop in the Midwest — it’s becoming a cultural capital in its own right.
The Booming Food Scene
One of the top things to do in Kansas is eat — seriously. Kansas City BBQ continues to dominate the culinary map, but in 2025, the city’s food game is more diverse than ever.
Try slow-smoked ribs at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que or sample duck confit at The Town Company, a high-end restaurant with local roots.
Food trucks and farmers’ markets offer global flavors, from Korean tacos to vegan tamales, all made with Kansas-grown ingredients. Whether you’re a foodie or just hungry, the options are endless.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Nature lovers will find peace and inspiration in the heart of Kansas. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, located in the Flint Hills, is one of the most breathtaking and underrated Kansas activities.
This protected area offers miles of scenic hiking trails through open prairie, where you’ll spot wildflowers, bison, and wide-open skies. In 2025, new guided tours will offer night hikes and stargazing events — an ideal experience for nature photographers or anyone looking to disconnect from the digital world.
Overland Park: A Family Favorite
Families often ask what things to do in Kansas will entertain kids and adults alike. Overland Park answers that question with ease. From the immersive Museum at Prairiefire to the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, there are plenty of fun and educational attractions.
This year brings an exciting new expansion to the farmstead’s butterfly gardens and interactive nature walks. Kids can feed goats, explore frontier life, or learn about local wildlife — all in one visit. The city also hosts regular outdoor movie nights and kid-friendly festivals in the summer.
Sunflower Season in Full Bloom
One of the most photogenic Kansas activities you can experience is sunflower field hopping. From late July through September, fields near Lawrence, Goodland, and even Wichita become oceans of golden blooms.
Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike, visiting these fields at golden hour is a magical experience. Many farms also offer sunflower-themed events, photography days, and even sunflower mazes, turning this natural spectacle into one of the best things to do in Kansas every year.
Step Back in Time in Abilene
History buffs wondering if Kansas City is worth visiting should know that much of the state’s charm lies beyond its metro areas. In Abilene, visitors can explore the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, now updated with immersive, interactive exhibits on WWII and post-war America.
The town also features classic American attractions like the Seelye Mansion and the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad — offering scenic rides through the countryside. If you’re fascinated by America’s past, Abilene delivers on education and charm.
Wichita’s Cultural Renaissance
Wichita has grown into a city full of surprises. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Kansas if you want a blend of art, nightlife, and local culture. The Delano District is thriving with shops, breweries, and weekly events.
Art lovers can tour the Wichita Art Museum or admire murals downtown. Families can head to the Sedgwick County Zoo or Exploration Place — both of which are expanding in 2025. Wichita’s growing skyline and riverwalk trails make it an ideal destination for city lovers.
The Flint Hills Discovery Center
Located in Manhattan, Kansas, the Flint Hills Discovery Center is a modern museum dedicated to the prairie ecosystem. With engaging exhibits for kids and adults, this center teaches the importance of preserving one of America’s most endangered landscapes.
In 2025, new programming includes prairie science camps, sustainable living workshops, and panoramic film experiences in their Immersive Theater. This is one of the best things to do in Kansas for families or eco-conscious travelers.
NASCAR & Sports Mania
If you’re a sports fan asking if Kansas City is worth visiting, just look at the Kansas Speedway. The 2025 race season promises high-octane fun with upgraded fan zones, behind-the-scenes pit access, and family ticket packages.
Beyond racing, Kansas City is home to Sporting KC — the city’s professional soccer team. Matches at Children’s Mercy Park are known for their electric energy and fan involvement. Whether you love racing, soccer, or college sports, Kansas has you covered.
Celebrate at Quirky Local Festivals
Kansas shines with unique local festivals that showcase its quirky charm and community pride. The Maple Leaf Festival in Baldwin City celebrates fall with craft booths, parades, and hometown fun.
In Hiawatha, the 2025 Mushroom Festival invites locals and visitors to forage for mushrooms, enjoy live folk music, and taste unique dishes. These festivals are among the most delightful Kansas activities and a great way to engage with the culture and people of the region.
Discover Natural Wonders Off the Beaten Path
Kansas is often underestimated for its landscape, but hidden treasures like Monument Rocks and the Little Jerusalem Badlands will prove otherwise. These natural wonders are perfect for hiking, photography, or simply soaking in views that feel like another world.
The Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park features dramatic chalk cliffs and unique wildlife, offering guided tours and sunset walks in 2025. They’re among the best things to do in Kansas if you’re looking for outdoor adventure and beauty.
So, Is Kansas City Worth Visiting in 2025?
With all the cultural growth, culinary hotspots, and outdoor adventures waiting, the answer is clear: yes, Kansas City is worth visiting. In fact, the entire state of Kansas has leveled up in 2025.
From high-energy sports and festivals to serene nature escapes, Kansas delivers a wide range of travel experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a road trip across the plains, there’s something fresh, fun, and uniquely Kansas around every corner.
Explore the Best of Lenexa
When visiting the Kansas City metro area, don’t skip Lenexa — a growing suburban gem known for its charm, parks, and community events. The best things to do in Lenexa KS include walking through Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, visiting the Public Market for local eats, or attending the annual Great Lenexa BBQ Battle.
Lenexa’s small-town feel with big-city amenities makes it a refreshing detour for anyone seeking a quieter pace without sacrificing activities. In 2025, the city is adding more bike paths, art installations, and pop-up events.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Kansas Trip Today
Planning a visit to Kansas in 2025 could be one of your best travel decisions yet. Whether you’re looking for the thrill of race cars, the serenity of wildflower trails, or just want to eat your way through the BBQ capital of the Midwest, this state delivers.
So, if you’re still asking yourself if Kansas City is worth visiting, remember: Kansas isn’t just a place to pass through — it’s a place to explore, to celebrate, and to fall in love with. And now’s the perfect time to see why.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.