by Alisha Link

Created on: July 20, 2009

Kansas City is a city full of rich history and cultural significance. It is full of museums, historic buildings, neighborhoods, and homes, the first shopping mall, and the only WWI memorial in the country. There are many historic attractions to been seen in Kansas City, and here are a few of the can't miss stops.

The Liberty Memorial

This huge monument offers trips to the top of the 216 ft. high tower, is home to the The National World War One

Museum, and is the only World War One memorial in the nation. Built right after the first world war with donations from Kansas Citians as a way to honor our nations soldiers, andis a true testament to the kindness and generosity of spirit in Kansas City.

Union Station

Located right across the street from the Liberty Memorial, this old rail station was built in 1914 and was filled with restaurants, cigar bars, barber shops, and rail offices. It closed in 1980, and was reopened after renovations in 1999. Today it is a popular spot for tourists and local area schools field trips. Inside you will find restaurants, retail shops, the Amtrak station, and the popular Science City. Union Station is open to visitors Tuesdays through Sundays..

The Jazz District

Kansas City Jazz became extremely popular during the 1920's during prohibition. While many cities in the country had problems obtaining alcohol, Kansas City always had it in abundance thanks to local mob affiliations. The 18 & Vine District became the hub of entertainment, and after extensive renovations is once again a popular spot for seeing great jazz musicians. It is also home to the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

Harry Library and Museum

Located just minutes from Kansas City in Independence, Missouri, this museum is dedicated to everything Truman. There are collections of gifts received from foreign leaders, gift from citizens, collection of personal items such as his many canes and hats, political memorabilia, and even the safety plug pulled from the Nagasaki bomb. Located nearby is the Truman House where Harry and Bess Truman lived from 1919 until is death in 1972. They offer guided tours for a minimal fee.

Country Club Plaza

This sprawling outdoor shopping mall was designed by JC Nichols to be the first mall created for customers arriving in the newly invented automobile. It has plenty of retail chains and local favorites, wonderful restaurants and bars, horse carriage rides, and a movie theatre. It is also the only place to be on Thanksgiving night when they light the Plaza up for Christmas.

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