Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Tours

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts which includes interior views and modern architecture
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts which includes theater scenes and interior views
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts showing interior views and modern architecture
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts which includes interior views, theater scenes and modern architecture
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts


See everything from ballet to pop to Broadway shows in this impressive venue, which is an example of some of Kansas’ most distinctive architecture.

Discover Kansas City’s rich cultural life at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. This famous venue is a distinctive feature of the Kansas City skyline, as beautiful inside as it is outside. It is home to several of the city’s most established arts and classical music companies. See them live here or enjoy one of the big-name pop acts or musicals that regularly pass through.

The Kauffman Center opened its doors in 2011 and drew over 475,000 visitors within its first year. The center was conceived as part of a plan to invigorate downtown Kansas City. The innovative building is one of the city’s most iconic. Stand outside and see how its characteristic curves and ridges suggest some similarities to the Sydney Opera House. Walk around to the other side of the building and see how different it looks from another angle, where the soft curves are hidden and the glass walls jut out at a sharp angle.

Check the schedule to select from the diverse range of acts that perform at the center. Several resident organizations are based here. Watch the Kansas City Ballet dancers glide across the stage or get caught up in the drama of a performance by the Lyric Opera. This is also a great place to enjoy classical music at its best, with the Kansas City Symphony also resident.

Theater, musicals, contemporary music acts and talks and discussions all appear on the program regularly too.

Before you head into the auditorium, enjoy a meal at the Dining Experience. Sip wine and sample three courses of tasty local food to get in the mood for an evening of performance.

Its downtown location makes the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts easily reachable. Take public transportation to the nearby Kauffman Center KC Streetcar stop or park in the on-site garage. Pay to park in the garage and enjoy its public arts project based on light and music.

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Best Lodging Options Near Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Loews Kansas City Hotel

Loews Kansas City Hotel

4 out of 5
1515 Wyandotte Street, Kansas City, MO
Loews Kansas City Hotel
Kansas City Marriott Downtown

Kansas City Marriott Downtown

4 out of 5
200 W 12th Street, Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Marriott Downtown
Courtyard by Marriott Kansas City Downtown/Convention Center

Courtyard by Marriott Kansas City Downtown/Convention Center

3 out of 5
1535 Baltimore, Kansas City, MO
Courtyard by Marriott Kansas City Downtown/Convention Center
Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown by IHG

Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown by IHG

4 out of 5
1301 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO
Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown by IHG
Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown by IHG

Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown by IHG

3.5 out of 5
101 West 11TH Street, Kansas City, MO
Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown by IHG
Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas City Downtown Crossroads

Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas City Downtown Crossroads

2.5 out of 5
1571 Main Street, Kansas City, MO
Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas City Downtown Crossroads
Hotel Savoy Kansas City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Savoy Kansas City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
219 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO
Hotel Savoy Kansas City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Crossroads Hotel

Crossroads Hotel

4 out of 5
2101 Central St, Kansas City, MO
Crossroads Hotel
The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center

The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center

4 out of 5
1 E Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO
The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

At the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of performing arts with captivating shows and performances. Explore guided tours to learn about the stunning architecture and history of the venue. Nearby, you can visit museums that showcase local culture and art, ensuring a well-rounded experience filled with sports, theater, and entertainment options that highlight Kansas City's creative spirit.

Shopping

The City Market of Kansas City, located 1 mile from the Kauffman Center, offers a vibrant public market experience with local vendors and unique finds. If you're up for a drive, Zona Rosa Shopping Mall and Oak Park Mall, both 12 miles away, provide family-friendly entertainment and shopping options.

Recreation

At GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, immerse yourself in the exhilarating atmosphere of live sports, just 6 miles away. Kansas City Memorial Hall, located 2 miles from the Kauffman Center, offers vibrant music concerts. Enjoy the dynamic energy of T-Mobile Center, a sports venue only 0.5 miles away.

Adventure

At Oceans of Fun, located 8 miles from the Kauffman Center, enjoy thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions. For a scenic outdoor adventure, explore the Santa Fe Trail, only 0.7 mile away. If you're into tennis, the Plaza Tennis Center, situated 4 miles away, offers excellent facilities for a competitive match.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife near the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland, just 0.4 miles away, or seek thrills at the Edge of Hell Haunted House, 0.8 miles away. Don't miss the captivating Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, 0.7 miles away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

While visiting the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, you can explore a variety of attractions including performance venues, museums, and event spaces. This area offers a rich cultural experience perfect for families and city explorers alike. Don't miss out on nearby top and cultural attractions that highlight the vibrant essence of Kansas City, making your trip both enjoyable and memorable.

  • Crown Center: Located 0.9 miles from the Kauffman Center, Crown Center is a vibrant tourist precinct perfect for families. With its outdoor spaces, dining options, and unique shops, it's a great place to relax and enjoy some leisure time.
  • Kansas City Convention Center: Situated only 0.4 miles away, this venue is ideal for business events and conferences. Its modern facilities and spacious meeting areas make it a hub for professionals, showcasing the city's commitment to hosting major events.
  • Science City at Union Station: Just 0.6 miles from the Kauffman Center, this interactive science museum offers engaging exhibits for all ages. With a focus on culture and family, it’s a fun and educational stop for curious minds.

Best time to go to Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

The best time to visit Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January29.8°F (-1.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
February32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July79.0°F (26.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

To save money on your visit to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, consider traveling between December and February, as hotel prices are generally lower during these months. Booking your stay for a Monday can also help you avoid higher Saturday rates. Utilize Expedia's search tool to compare affordable hotel options and explore eco-friendly choices. Consider booking a package that includes flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and earn you cash for future bookings, making your trip more budget-friendly.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to customize your travel experience by letting you choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can sort the results to display hotels from the most affordable to the highest priced, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you can refine your search based on hotel type—if you check the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by booking your hotel near the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts along with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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