I have lived in a few different places since I was born, but Kansas City has definitely been the best. If you're a KC native or only spent a few days there, you can see the pride and love that runs in this city. Not only the pride and love but the opportunities are endless. If you have ever been to KC, know someone who is from there, or you are from there yourself these are just a few of the things I love and miss about good ole KCMO.
1. First Fridays
You know, the first Friday of every month where you and your best friends all get together at the West Bottoms to visit all the local shops, eat amazing food and see amazing art.
2. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
This art haven has become a popular spot for locals who want to add a cool look to their Instagram feeds or just enjoy the pleasures of the fine arts in Kansas City.
3. "KC I'm so in love..."
This is an infamous wall in downtown KC with the famous words spray painted on the side of a local business. This wall has become not only a tourist favorite spot but also the locals love it just as much if not more.
4. Joe's KC
Kansas City is known for their barbecue (let's be real its pretty much the best in the country) but there is no better place than JOE'S KC (used to be Oklahoma Joe's). There have been multiple locations opened up in the recent years but none give the experience like the original Joe's out of the gas station. Lines literally wrap out the door for this food!
5. Our boys in blue
Nope, this is not your local policemen, actually, this is the Kansas City Royals City Royals players who have become a culture in KC. These boys brought the whole city together and took us on a ride to not one but two World Series and actually winning one of those!
6. The Tomahawk Chop
This tradition is one of the few Kansas City Chiefs partake in during their National Football games. This chant is part of the culture in the loudest stadium in the country.
7. Power & Light District
Not only is this one of the most fun parts of the cities nightlife but their summer concert series is one for all Country music fans. Hot Country Nights start in June and run until August, free country concerts to those 21 and older (unless accompanied by an adult). With lineups last year ranging from The Eli Young Band to Chase Rice, to Dustin Lynch and others alike in between; no wonder this is the move on Thursdays in KC.
8. Burnt Ends (A KC delicacy)
This KC specialty will send you to barbecue heaven after consumption. Locals will always recommend tourist to eat these treats. Burnt Ends are just the fatty part of the brisket, re-smoked after being separated from the whole brisket... Is your mouth watering yet, because YUM!
9. Paseo
No one but locals knows this location because let's be real, our city is just like any major city and has some dangerous locations. But hidden in this area is some of the old classic buildings great for senior pictures or really any photo shoot. As long as you're aware of your surroundings there should be nothing stopping you from exploring these locations for their classic structures and beautiful backdrops.
10. Union Station
This active train station is one of the must-sees for tourist while visiting KC. This old marble building has been featured on Ghost Adventures on Travel Channel. This building was rattled with bullets during the Mob era, many of these bullets can still be found in the building today.
11. The love for the city
Kansas City Natives are proud of the place they get to call home. Though they may move away to another city, state or country, KC natives will always rep the 816 wherever they go.