Penway rendering looking south

Flyover Country No More: Kansas City Prepares for Takeoff in 2024

Here’s What to Do in Kansas City

In 2024, Kansas City stands at the forefront of an exciting transformation. Once known as a city in the middle of “flyover country,” this bustling Midwestern hub captivates visitors and residents with innovative attractions, sporting events, and musical extravaganzas, some of which you’ll only find in Kansas City. It’s a city where tradition meets modernity and forward-thinking, resulting in a rich array of experiences for those who appreciate the unique aspects of culture, sports, and entertainment.

Distinctive Attractions and Cultural Enrichment

The Rock Island Bridge: Bridging Past and Present

In the summer of 2024, the historic Rock Island Railroad Bridge over the Kansas River will be reborn as a new kind of landmark on the KC skyline. This restoration project is America’s first entertainment district over a river.

The 1905 Rock Island Bridge will feature event venues, drinks, and dining, along with a calendar of special events, ranging from live music to farmers’ markets, and regattas. The Bridge is the first for-profit project admitted to the renowned Highline Network, an association among North America’s top infrastructure reuse projects.

At the heart of the former Kansas City Stockyards, the bridge honors Kansas City’s history of railroads, big rivers, and cattle.  It also provides striking views of the Kansas River 50 ft below and the historic Strawberry Hill neighborhood. The bridge also serves as a public crossing with trailhead services such as restrooms, drinking fountains, and seating for 400.

The KC Wheel and Pennway Point: A View from the Top

Picture the thrill of soaring 200 feet above Kansas City aboard the KC Wheel. This Ferris wheel is more than an attraction; it’s a cool way to take in the city’s skyline, offering unmatched views of urban downtown.

Nearby, Pennway Point is a lively district that combines gourmet dining, boutique shopping and live music, creating an energetic atmosphere for both day and night explorers.

The KC Wheel started rolling in November 2023, with Pennway Park expected to join the fun in 2024. 

The Rabbit hOle: A Convergence of Art and Innovation

March 2024 will mark the grand opening of The Rabbit hOle, an avant-garde cultural center and museum experience, celebrating 100 years of children’s literature for people of all ages. Visitors will become explorers in an immersive, multi-sensory, narrative landscape filled with discoverable environments.

Here, art and technology intertwine, providing visitors with an array of interactive exhibits and performances that stimulate both the mind and the senses. Programming for children, families and adults include a print shop and story lab, a resource library, a full-service bookstore, and a maker space. Within these spaces you will be able to participate in book making workshops, writing labs, story times, baby music time, book clubs, professional opportunities for educators, exhibit-related presentations and performances, national and local author events, and a multitude of literature-based activities.

Get Your Head in the Game at These Sporting Spectacles

The KC Current Stadium: A Landmark in Women’s Sports

The KC Current, Kansas City’s NWSL team, will showcase their skills in a new, state-of-the-art stadium. This venue is a significant milestone in the history of women’s sports, demonstrating the city’s commitment to supporting and elevating women athletes. Season tickets are already sold out.

Kansas City’s Volleyball Debut in the Pro Volleyball Federation

Kansas City is using 2024 to prepare for proudly introducing its first professional volleyball team in the Pro Volleyball Federation

This addition marks a significant moment in the city’s sporting history, especially when you consider the debut of the KC Current Stadium.


The Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament: A Clash of Collegiate Titans

March 2024 will bring the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament to Kansas City at the Sprint Center. 

This event is more than a series of games; it’s a gathering of some of the nation’s most talented young athletes, all competing for the ultimate collegiate basketball accolade.

Musical Notes

An Evening with Olivia Rodrigo

On July 26, 2024, the T-Mobile Center will host pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo. This concert promises to be an electrifying event, featuring her popular hits in an atmosphere charged with youthful energy and vibes.

Country Music with Morgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen’s performance at Arrowhead Stadium on August 1, 2024, is set to be a highlight for country music fans. His concert is expected to be a showcase of storytelling, emotion and Wallen’s unique musical style.

Kansas City’s on the Map

In 2024, Kansas City attractions make it more than a destination. It’s an experience. Whether drawn by the allure of its cultural attractions, the thrill of sporting events or the nights of live music, Kansas City is ready to offer something memorable for every visitor and resident. This is a hidden-gem city on the move, inviting you to see things to do in Kansas City for yourself.