The winter months can leave many people with the seasonal blues. If that’s you, your family might be due for a weekend getaway. A lavish vacation by the beach might not be realistic or within budget; luckily, there are tons to do right here in Missouri.
Kansas City is less than a tank of gas away from Jefferson City — about a two-and-a-half-hour drive — and what better time to visit than during football season? The Chiefs are coming off their victory tour from winning the last Super Bowl and are in the midst of the 2023 season with a new, young team. Watching the Chiefs play at the loudest stadium in the world is an unforgettable experience, and tailgating at Arrowhead Stadium is a must.
If you can’t make it to the stadium, the Power and Light district is a popular spot among locals and visitors to catch the game. There are tons of places to pick from when it comes to dining, so even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied.
Powell Gardens is a KC landmark where families can enjoy beautiful plants and gardens. They also host events and classes throughout fall and winter. “Visitors enjoy themed display gardens, a three-mile nature trail, rotating exhibitions, exceptional architecture, and more,” said Laina Burdette, the Marketing Specialist at Powell Gardens.
In the KC Metro area, Colonial Gardens is another agritourism destination where visitors can handpick flowers and fruit.
The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art is a popular stop for families in KC. “[The museum] is one of the favorite free attractions for families in the region,” said Kathleen Leighton, manager of media relations and video production at the museum. “The museum truly offers something for everyone with more than 5,000 years of history and culture represented in the galleries, the many free festivals we offer throughout the year, weekend art activities for all ages and classes and workshops.”
River Market is a must-stop during a weekend getaway to Kansas City. Visiting the River Market is like taking a trip across the world through its restaurants and vendors. There’s an Italian market, a Brazilian restaurant, Middle Eastern cuisine and so much more. Saturday mornings are the best time to visit because there is usually a larger turnout of vendors.
The West Bottoms is another evolving neighborhood in KC loaded with history. The neighborhood is popular for its antique stores and unique shops.
There is so much fun to be had in this vibrant city and so many memories to make. Share your photos using #jcparentsmag on Instagram.