Attractions in Kansas City, MO

The Purpose of the American Royal is to provide scholarship, education, awards and competitive learning experiences that reward hard work, leadership skills and agrarian values Hands-on, interactive museum of agricultural history. The American Royal is Kansas City's famed barbecue, rodeo, horse and livestock show venue. Tours available. Participate in tours led by trained, museum docents.  Try out the new equine exhibit and learn about different gaits.  Gain insight into the vital role that agriculture played in Kansas City's rich and storied history.  Learn about the beginnings of the American Royal and the impact of Tom Bass and Loula Long Combs.  Observe horse show, rodeo and livestock show clothing, saddles and memorabilia.  Compare your weight with chickens, market hogs, and feeder steers.  Visit the reading corner, play computer games, and learn about livestock judging.

This museum, which began in 1975, is located in Hodge Park. It is a gathering of 19th century buildings; dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Missouri's early history and architecture. The facility is open daily for self-guided walking tours. The area features 20 structures, including clapboard houses, a school, a church, and log cabins. Walking tour maps are available at the front gate, the kiosk, or the porch of the Mercantile. Picnic tables are available. During the summer, weather permitting, the buildings are open so visitors may view the interiors through closed gates. Private tours are available by reservation. The site hosts many special events throughout the year, including 1st Saturdays, 9am-2pm, June-September; the Harvest Festival, 10am-4:30pm, the second Saturday in October; and A Visit From St. Nicholas, 10am-4pm, the first Saturday in December.