What to Look For: Kansas City
In less than three weeks, baseball players from all 30 Major League teams will descend upon Kansas City for the 2012 MLB All-Star Game in hopes of giving their league home field advantage in the World Series. And while the fans will have no problem staying busy with all of the amazing events planned, here are some suggestions for fans to check out during their time away from Kauffman Stadium.
FOOD
Ask anyone what you should do in Kansas City, and I guarantee they’ll say eat barbeque. During my social media survey, the one place that continued to pop up over and over again was Oklahoma Joe’s. It was even endorsed by the BBQ master himself, Meat Mitch. Located in an old gas station, this barbeque joint has been a staple in Kansas City since it opened in 1996. Be advised, lines form early at the restaurant that is known for the Z-Man Sandwich (beef brisket with provolone cheese, topped with two onion rings) and the restaurant is not open on Sundays.
ENTERTAINMENT
Country Club Plaza: Architecturally designed after Seville, Spain, the Plaza is eight square blocks of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. High-end shops mix well while fans looking for a party atmosphere will enjoy Tomfooleries and O’Dowd’s Little Dublin.
Westport: Dotted with more than 60 bars and restaurants, Westport has always been a staple for entertainment in Kansas City.
Power and Light Entertainment District: The best way to describe Power and Light is this – imagine a mall. Except instead of having shops, it is full of bars and restaurants and the food court is actually an outdoor concert venue. Sounds too good to be true? That’s because it is. Located in downtown Kansas City, Power and Light is the perfect spot for fans coming from out of town: it is in close proximity to all of the downtown hotels as well as the Bartle Hall (where the All-Star FanFest is being held) and is still only a 10-minute drive from Kauffman Stadium.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
Just a heads up, most venues are closed on Mondays so check the open hours before making your plans.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Union Station
American Jazz Museum
National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial: Be sure to check out their latest exhibit, “World War I All-Star: Sports and the Inter-Allied Games.”
There is plenty to do in Kansas City outside of the walls of Kauffman Stadium, and I encourage you all to spend a few extra days exploring. For more information on Kansas City, you can visit www.VisitKC.com. And be sure to follow @MLBFanCave on Twitter throughout the All-Star Game for up-close-and-personal interactions with the players as well as giveaways.