Kansas City, located in the heart of the Midwest, spans over 1,400 square miles and encompasses all of Jackson, Clay, and Platte counties. Known as the "City of Fountains," it boasts over 200 fountains, more than any city outside of Rome. The city’s expansive parks and green spaces include Swope Park, which spans 1,805 acres, along with cultural landmarks like the Kansas City Zoo, Starlight Theatre, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, famous for its vast collection and outdoor sculpture garden.

Kansas City is celebrated as the birthplace of Kansas City-style barbecue, renowned for its slow-smoked meats cooked over a variety of woods and served with a thick, tangy tomato-based sauce. Iconic establishments like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Arthur Bryant’s draw visitors from around the world. The City Market, one of the largest farmers' markets in the region, offers fresh local produce, meats, and artisan goods year-round.

Kansas City’s sports legacy is strong, with the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL) and the Kansas City Royals (MLB) both bringing national championships to the city. Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Chiefs, is renowned as one of the loudest in the NFL, while the Royals play at Kauffman Stadium, known for its distinctive fountains and waterfalls. The city will also host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The American Jazz Museum, located in the historic 18th & Vine District, preserves the city's rich jazz heritage. Kansas City has been a major center for jazz since the 1920s and 1930s, and the museum features exhibits on legendary musicians like Charlie Parker and Count Basie. Union Station, a historic landmark, remains a vibrant hub for museums, restaurants, and community events, further highlighting the city’s cultural significance.