Come for the Race, Stay for KC
The Kansas City Marathon is fast approaching, and you’re probably focused on training. Have you thought about what you are going to do after, or before, the big race? Kansas City has a lot more to offer than a great race location, and here are just a few scenes you should check out while you’re here.
Let’s talk about barbecue. Instead of a Walgreens or Starbucks on every corner, Kansas City has barbecue joints. Visit KC claims that Kansas City is the barbecue capital of the world.
We’re mostly famous for our slow-smoked meats, burnt ends, and sweet and tangy sauces. If that doesn’t get your mouth watering after a tough race, I don’t know what will. My guess is, you’ll probably catch a whiff of the tantalizing smells as you run through this fine city.
Kansas City isn’t called the Paris of the Plains for nothing. This is a place where you can experience culture, art, music and beauty, and all within 30 minutes of the city. There is so much history to take in while you’re here. During the full marathon, you’ll run right by Memorial Hill, home of the National World War I Museum and Memorial. You’ll also be running through 18th & Vine, which is internationally recognized as one of the cradles of jazz music and a historic hub of African-American businesses. This area also features the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a true Kansas City treasure.
If you’re into the art scene, you won’t be disappointed. Even the design of your race T-shirt was inspired by the famous Shuttlecocks art installation at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. You’ll find plenty of beautiful works inside and outside the Nelson, as well as around the city. From contemporary to classic to performing arts, we have it all. You can see a ballet, a symphony, a play, explore the arts districts, take in a live jazz show any day of the week and so much more. Even make a day of hunting down the beautiful fountains of KC. As the City of Fountains, we’ve got a few.
And we didn’t forget about the kiddos. If you are bringing the whole family on this trip, the kids won’t be bored. Let them express their creativity in an interactive art studio or experience the wonder of sea life at Crown Center. Play with the animals at a family-friendly petting zoo or explore the dozens of fall festivals.
The possibilities are endless. Even if you’ve lived in Kansas City all your life, there is still plenty left to explore. Check out Visit KC to see what KC has to offer and make this a race-cation to remember.
Make sure to sign up for the Kansas City Marathon, half marathon, 10K or 5K so you can join in the fun.
