Location: Kansas City
Top Things to do in Kansas City
What to do and see in Kansas City, Missouri (MO): The Best Jazz Clubs & Bars
The home of swing and bebop for some, "The City of Fountains" to others, Kansas City is different things to different people. Music enthusiasts are drawn to the jazz clubs and old haunts of famous musicians such as Charlie Parker and Count Basie. With more fountains than Rome, there is ample opportunity for scenic strolling from fountain to fountain. Stop along the way to discover interesting neighborhoods and browse through eclectic shops. Families are particularly attracted to the city because of its child-friendly events and venues. Science City features hands-on exhibits including a mock television studio where kids can deliver a weather forecast, while the Zoo houses impressive African and Australian exhibits plus an IMAX Theater. The city's museums cover everything from the history of jazz music to a celebration of African American baseball players. Once a trading post for pioneers heading to the Western United States, today Kansas City is a burgeoning metropolis with activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.
Restaurants in Kansas City
1. Blue Room
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 58 reviews
This jazz bar opened in 1997.
Reviewed By 160marybethh - Tucson, United States
Way back when Jazz and Blues were evolving, Kansas City was one of THE great jazz cities of this evolving genre. Blues, jazz and barbecue kind of go together in this Kansas City historic district at 18th and Vine. The Blue Room is kind of a Twofer. The Blue Room sits cozily under the American Jazz Museum and you can get to the Jazz Museum from an unassuming door in the back of the Club. The Museum side of the door says something like 'Jazz'. I took my 15-year-old nephew, who plays a bass trombone in a high school marching band, to the Blue Room because he's old enough to recognize styles and I wanted blues and jazz represented in his musical education. He was the only young one there but the crowd's age was a pretty good mix. It was a Friday and we nabbed the last two available seats in this intimate house. A local blues artist (and KC has some great ones) entertained an appreciative Happy Hour audience with her 4-piece backup band from 5:30 to 7:30. The drinks are pretty cheap and the house wines are nothing to write home about but really - when smooth blues and Jazz are being offered who cares about the drinks? Plenty of hard liquor choices if you are picky. The drive down 18th is a little industrial but the two- or three-block stretch around 18th and Vine has plenty of restaurants and other clubs that offer music to make it a night. As a bonus, if you get there early enough, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is adjacent to the Jazz Museum. These two museums highlight the incredible Black American music and sports contributions not only to Kansas City but to the world. The Blue Room door is right on the corner of 18th and Vine and if you look catty-corner across the street you will see a free parking lot. There is street parking but you have to get there plenty early. I highly recommend the Blue Room for not only the quality musical talent, both national and local, in this intimate venue but also for the great people watching (jazz clubs are so much fun). And please, remember to dress up a little. Show your respect for this wonderful historic space and this fine music.
2. Green Lady Lounge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 160 reviews
Reviewed By AceBucki - Lewis Center, United States
I seldom go to bars or taverns because I don't drink, but my friends were in a jazz mood after having a great BBQ meal. They decided on the Green Lady Lounge and I am glad I decided to go. The atmosphere was perfect for a jazz lounge with a beautiful bar (don't let the look from out on the street fool you) and bartenders that care about their craft. They made me one of the best lemonade's that I have ever tasted! Would go back and be the DD.
3. The Phoenix
4. Club Mardi Gras
Located in the historic district, this is one of Kansas City's oldest jazz clubs.
5. Mutual Musicians Foundation
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
