With so much to see in Kansas City, it can be hard to know where to start! After all, there are nationally recognized museums, iconic stadiums, astounding architecture and industry titans around every corner. Whether you call Kansas City home or are visiting from out of town, you’ll love these behind-the-scenes tours in Kansas City at some of our favorite historic, engaging, and memorable KC spots. 
Mom Pro Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for your tours. You often need close-toed shoes for factory tours, so come prepared.
- Double-check requirements or restrictions and sign any liability waivers before arriving for your tour so you’re ready to go.
- Factor in a little extra time between your tour and your next event in case the tour goes long. Besides, you’ll want to stick around and explore after your tour!
- Come prepared with a question or two for your tour guide. They love to show off their knowledge, and you’ll make the most of your experience. They also usually have great recommendations for other spots around town!
- Bring cash to tip your tour guide. Even if they don’t pass the hat, tour guides work hard to blend performance and facts for an enjoyable visit. Plus, if they’re feeling generous, they might have an extra freebie to give back. You never know!
Historical Tours in Kansas City
Kansas City Museum
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri 64123 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $12
Seniors (62 and above) and Veterans: $10
Free for Children 12 and under, an adult must be present.
Includes a 20% discount to the on-site boutique.
Long Family Tour
Thursdays 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m.-noon
Suggested to come 30 minutes early for a film.
What Makes It Special
You’ll learn all about the museum’s home of Corinthian Hall and the Long Family who occupied its rooms during the Gilded Age. Kids will love Elixir, the soda fountain in the basement, and the billiard room also has board games and a pool table for visitors to enjoy after you’ve taken in four floors of KC history.
Vaile Victorian Mansion
1500 N. Liberty St. Independence, MO 64050 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $10
Children (6-12): $5
April – December
Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
What Makes It Special
This well-preserved mansion gives a glimpse into Victorian life of the 19th century. Depending on when you go, ask about events like Victorian teas or holiday tours. The mansion is also thought to be haunted, so keep your eye out for some ghosts!
Jesse James Birthplace
21216 Jesse James Farm Road, Kearney, Missouri 64060 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults $9.00
Seniors (62+) $8.00
Children (8-15) $5.50
Under 8 Free
June – August: Sunday – Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
September – May: 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday – Saturday, 12:00pm to 4:00pm Sunday
What Makes It Special
Possibly one of Missouri’s most legendary sons, visitors will appreciate the close and personal look at birthplace of Jesse James, which includes the site of his original grave.
Harry S. Truman Home
219 North Delaware Street (Truman Home)
223 North Main Street (Visitor Center)—Ticketing Location
Independence, MO 64050 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Free
Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Purchase tickets at the visitor center. We recommend that you call ahead 816-254-9929 to inquire what tours are available for the day.
What Makes It Special
This National Historic Site showcases the “Summer White House” where Harry S Truman lived before, after, and sometimes even during his presidency. It’s full of artifacts from the family’s life and service. Kids ages 5-12 can also complete an activity booklet for a Junior Ranger certificate and badge. Don’t forget to take a quick walk to Clinton’s Soda Fountain—the site of one of Truman’s first jobs–for an old-fashioned sundae or phosphate after your tour.
John Wornall House
6115 Wornall Rd.
Kansas City, MO 64113 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $8.00
Seniors/Students: $6.00
Children 6-12: $5.00
Children 0-5: FREE
Combo Ticket: Purchase a combo ticket for $12 and tour both the Wornall & Majors Houses.
Guided tours only available Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Self-guided tours available Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – noon; 1 p.m. – 4: p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
What Makes It Special
The Wornall House is one of the oldest homes in Kansas City, originally built in 1858. It was also a field hospital for the Battle of Westport in the Civil War. The house has artifacts from the Wornall family and the Civil War battle nearby. If you’re into Civil War history, add a stop at nearby Loose Park for more on the Battle of Westport. Ghost tours of the home are also available In October.
Alexander Majors House
8201 State Line Road
Kansas City, MO 64114 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $8.00
Seniors/Students: $6.00
Children 6-12: $5.00
Children 0-5: FREE
Combo Ticket: Purchase a combo ticket for $12 and tour both the Wornall & Majors Houses.
Thursday-Sunday, seasonally
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Contact in advance for a guided tour.
What Makes It Special
This historical house was originally built in 1856, right on the then-national border of the United States. The thriving city grew around the home, and now visitors can learn about 19th century life and westward expansion all at the Majors House and Barn.
Food & Drink Tours in Kansas City
Barley Bus
325 E 31st St Suite B, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Varies; check schedule and prices online
What Makes It Special
Barley Bus has a variety of tours available for the curious foodie, including a KC BBQ Tour. And if an adult beverage is the only thing on your mind, hop on one of the Barley Buses to stop at a brewery, winery, or distillery nearby. They’re great for a day date or girls’ night out!
Rieger Distillery
2700 Guinotte Ave. Kansas City, MO 64120 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Heritage Tour
Adults (21+): $20
Under 21 or Non-Drinkers: $10
Whiskey Tour
$40 for Adults, 21+ only
Tours offered 7 days a week at various times; check website for availability.
What Makes It Special
Peek inside KC’s spirited history with this legendary distillery that was revived in 2014. Adults also have the option to end their tour with a tasting of four unique spirits. If you’re making it a date, put a reservation in at The Hey! Hey! Club in the basement, and if you’re bringing the family, snag a swinging seat in the Electric Park Garden Bar. No matter what, you must put going down the distillery’s 40-foot slide on your itinerary.
Tom’s Town
1701 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults (21+): $20
Under 21 or Non-Drinkers: $10
Tours offered Tuesday – Saturday at various times; check website for availability.
What Makes It Special
A tour at Tom’s Town not only includes a look behind the scenes of their distilling process, but also a quick history lesson on the history of Tom Pendergast and his hold on the Kansas City area during prohibition. You also have the option to sample their 5 award-winning spirits.
Boulevard Brewing
2534 Madison Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
$10 on weekdays, $15 on weekends
Tickets released weekly
Various times, check website for availability
What Makes It Special
You’ll get to try plenty of beer during your tour at Boulevard, and it only adds to the experience of seeing behind the brewer of this beloved Kansas City brand. And while tours aren’t recommended for kids under 7, don’t hesitate to bring your older kids on the tour for their own tasting of a complimentary Polly’s Pop! The Beer Hall is also a great place to spend some recreational time before or after your tour.
Roasterie
2663 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
$5 all-ages pricing
Tours offered 7 days a week at various times; check website for availability
What Makes It Special
The Roasterie Factory seems built around their tour experience. From learning about the process of harvesting and roasting coffee beans to sampling their brew, you’ll have a new appreciation for your morning java. The factory also has a café with pastries and sandwiches, plus a small shop with both souvenirs and at-home brewing supplies.
Green Dirt Farm
1099 Welt St., Weston, MO 64098 | Website
Pricing & Hours
$20 all-ages pricing
Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays
11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
What Makes It Special
Take a trip to beautiful Weston for a tour through Green Dirt’s Farm sheep pastures, their milking parlor, the cheese kitchen, and a final stop at the retail store for a tasting of three of their signature cheeses. Plan to get a bite to eat before or after your tour at the retail shop and lounge outside in Green Dirt Farm’s natural space. Heads up, the tour is focused on their process and may not be as entertaining for kids under 8.
Shatto Milk
9406 N. HWY. 33, Osborn, MO 64474 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Kids 2 and under are free
Tuesday – Saturday at 10:30 a.m. by appointment only (call 816-930-3862 for tickets)
What Makes It Special
You’ll learn all about milk-processing at this working dairy farm. On the tour, see how Shatto preps their signature glass bottles, meet their cows, and participating in a cow milking simulation. There are also samples, plus a full retail store (including ice cream!). Bring a blanket for a picnic if the weather’s right.
Tours for the Animal Lovers
Behind the Scenes at Sea Life
2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
$10 for ages 2+
2 and under free
Must purchase general admission ticket in addition to tour ticket
Available 7 days a week at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.
What Makes It Special
This 30-minute guided tour takes your aquarium experience one step further with a look at the process of caring and feeding the thousands of creatures at Sea Life Kansas City.
KC Zoo Veterinary Health Tour
6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Free for Zoo Members, Ages 12+ only
What Makes It Special
Animal specialists for hundreds of species are what make the Kansas City Zoo such a treasure, and now you get a chance to walk in their shoes to see all that goes into the care of animals like lions, elephants, and penguins.
YaYa’s Alpaca Farm
30200 East 275th St, Garden City, MO 64747 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults age 17+: $12.00
Children age 4-16: $10.00
Kids 3 and under are free
Wednesday – Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
What Makes It Special
YaYa’s tour showcases their unique alpaca farm. Come learn more about their herd and spend some up-close time with the alpacas in their pasture. You’ll also learn about their fiber and use their machines to make a project using the fiber at the end of the tour.
Cedar Cove Conservation
3783 K-68 Hwy, Louisburg, KS 66053 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $15
Children: $12 (kids under 3 free)
Seniors: $10
Saturday and Sundays
Tours begin every 30 minutes between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
What Makes It Special
This conservation facility is home to several species of big cats, including tigers, lions, and leopards. You’ll learn about issues facing the conservation of these animals, hear their stories, and may even get a chance to see them eat.
KC Highlights Tours
City Hall Observation Deck
City Hall, 414 E. 12th St. Kansas City, MO | Website
Pricing & Hours
Free
Tours are available Monday, Tuesday and Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and should be scheduled at least 5 days in advance by sending an email.
What Makes It Special
This tour will take you to the top of the 29-story City Hall building, where you’ll be able to go out on the rooftop observation deck and look out over Kansas City and all its stunning architecture.
KC Segway/Bike Tours
4245 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64111 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Varies; check schedule and prices online
What Makes It Special
With this tour company, you have your choice of specialty tours on either bike or a Segway. Whether you’re interested in parks and history, art, or BBQ and beer, there’s sure to be a tour for you on the list!
Kansas City Fun Tours
30 West Pershing Kansas City MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Thursday – Monday, 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m.
Ages 13+: $29
Seniors: $25
Kids (12 and under): $15
Under 2 Free
What Makes It Special
Hop on a motorized, old-fashioned trolley for this one-of-a-kind look at 17 miles of Kansas City’s most notorious spots. The trolley departs from Union Station, so plan for some time exploring all the iconic landmark’s businesses and features inside after your tour!
Sports & Arts Tours in Kansas City
Kauffman Stadium
1 Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $15
Seniors (65 & up): $12
Children (6-17): $12
5 & Under: Free
Available during baseball season at various times; check schedule online.
Other premium tours also offered.
What Makes It Special
Your tour of the Royals’ home stadium includes a view of areas not seen by the public like the dugout, the interview room, the press box, and more. In addition, you’ll get a 10% discount at the Royals Team Store the day of your tour.
Arrowhead Stadium
1 Arrowhead Dr, Kansas City, MO 64129 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Varies; check schedule and pricing online.
Premium options available
What Makes It Special
If you have dreamed of standing in the same spot Patrick Mahomes has, then you’ll want to take this tour of his home stadium. Check out the locker room for the Kansas City Chiefs, the Hall of Honor, the field, and more. You can even bundle your ticket with a Chiefs hat for a fun souvenir.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64111 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adult guided tours can be booked in advance ($100 for a group of 12 or less adults)
Self-guided tours for the whole family are always encouraged and free!
What Makes It Special
See the artworks hanging at the Nelson-Atkins in a whole new light with a guided tour from one of the museum’s docents, or take your whole family for a free self-guided tour. In the warmer months, double up your tour with a group outing to Art Course, the museum’s miniature golf experience.
Kauffman Center Tour
1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Free
Fridays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Check before your visit in case of private events or performances
What Makes It Special
The Kauffman Center is known for its equally stunning architecture and artistic performances, and now you have the chance to explore its venues with guidance from a volunteer. If you can plan your tour for a First Friday, you’ll have the added benefit of dipping down to the Crossroads district for even more art!
Unique Experiences
Kansas City Gangster Tour
30 West Pershing Kansas City MO 64108 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Adults: $35
Every Saturday at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m.
What Makes It Special
Hailed as one of the city’s longest-running historical tours, the Kansas City Gangster Tour has fascinating insight into some of the history behind the gangs that called KC home in the 20’s and 30’s.
The Elms Ghost Tour
401 Regent Street, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024 | Website
Pricing & Hours
$25 per person
Available 7 days a week, 9 p.m.
What Makes It Special
The Elms is known for many different reasons, from its history to its spa treatments, but it is also renown for its reported haunting. Tour guides will take you through the hotel’s most haunted spots with a bit of history behind the reports. If you’re staying at the historic Elms, you can get their ghost tour at a bundled price with a room under their paranormal package.
Moon Marble
600 East Front Street, Bonner Springs, KS 66012 | Website
Pricing & Hours
Free
Monday – Friday, 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Call before visiting for the most accurate schedule
What Makes It Special
Want to know how a marble is made? Head to Moon Marble to watch a demonstration of the marble making process, pick your own set of marbles from their store, and see some of their personal artifacts on site.
