ENTERTAINMENT AND LEISURE IN KANSAS CITY

Kansas City offers far more than just race-day action, making it an ideal destination for a full NASCAR weekend. Once the engines fall silent at Kansas Speedway, there’s still plenty to explore across the city and its surroundings.

Entertainment right by the track

The Speedway is located next to Village West, a large shopping and entertainment district that becomes a hub of activity during race weekends. Here, you can visit the Hollywood Casino, enjoy a meal overlooking the circuit, or browse the many shops and outlets at Legends Outlets. The area is also well-suited for families, with attractions such as the Great Wolf Lodge water park.

Downtown energy and nightlife

Just a short drive away, downtown Kansas City offers a completely different atmosphere. The Power & Light District is the city’s main nightlife area, filled with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Large outdoor screens often show live sports, creating a lively gathering point for fans after the race. It’s the perfect place to extend the evening once the on-track action is done.

Barbecue and local flavour

No visit to Kansas City is complete without trying its famous barbecue. The city is widely regarded as one of the BBQ capitals of the United States, and race weekend is a great excuse to experience it. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a must for first-time visitors, especially for its popular Z-Man sandwich, while Arthur Bryant’s offers a more traditional, historic experience. Across the city, you’ll find countless spots serving slow-smoked ribs, brisket, and burnt ends.

Music and culture

Kansas City’s cultural scene is just as impressive. Known for its deep jazz roots, the city still celebrates this heritage today. Venues like Knuckleheads Saloon host live music almost every night, ranging from blues and rock to country and Americana. For a more historical perspective, the American Jazz Museum in the 18th & Vine District combines exhibitions with live performances, giving visitors a deeper look into the city’s musical legacy.

More racing and motorsport experiences

For fans who can’t get enough of racing, there are additional options beyond NASCAR. Lakeside Speedway, a nearby dirt oval, hosts local events throughout the season and offers a more grassroots racing atmosphere. At Kansas Speedway itself, the NASCAR Racing Experience gives visitors the chance to ride along or even drive a stock car on the same track used by the Cup Series–an unforgettable addition to any race weekend.

Attractions for all visitors

Kansas City also caters to families and those looking for a more relaxed pace. The Kansas City Zoo, Science City at Union Station, and the National WWI Museum and Memorial are among the city’s most popular attractions. For shopping and a slower afternoon, Country Club Plaza offers a unique setting with Spanish-inspired architecture, boutique stores, and cafés. The city’s growing brewery and coffee scene is another great way to unwind between race days.