![KC Streetcar](https://visitkcd8.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/styles/544x455/public/2020-01/KC%20Streetcar-header-web_1.jpg.webp?VersionId=oy45tsW8H8188xSnIjYiTP_VQvtql2xb&itok=MmAmIgNM)
12 free things to do along the Kansas City Streetcar route
Searching for inexpensive adventures? First, take advantage of the free-to-ride Kansas City Streetcar. The 2.2-mile route runs from the River Market through Downtown KC to Union Station, all with unique communities to explore.
Practically every stop on the KC Streetcar offers a free attraction or experience for visitors and KC natives looking to save. Here are 12 worth checking out.
Riverfront Heritage Trail
Step off the streetcar at the River Market North or River Market West stops and keep walking north to Berkley Riverfront Park. There you’ll find the Riverfront Heritage Trail with scenic views of the Missouri River, CPKC Stadium and the Bond Bridge.
City Market
Hop off the streetcar at the City Market stop. On the weekends, the farmers market is the largest in the region with dozens of vendors to explore. During the week, visitors can also check out the diverse restaurants and shops.
21c Museum Hotel
At the Library District stop, a short walk west will bring you to the 21c Museum Hotel. Once the oldest hotel operating west of the Mississippi River, this historic building has been restored and now houses a boutique hotel, restaurant and contemporary art museum. The hotel’s curated exhibits and permanent works are always free to view and open to the public.
Also at the Library District stop, you’ll find the Kansas City Public Library’s Central Branch. At this downtown library, visitors can watch movies in an old bank’s vault, browse various exhibits, play a giant chess match on the rooftop terrace or simply settle in with a good book.
City Hall observation deck
Just a few blocks from the Metro Center stop, you’ll find Kansas City’s City Hall, the third tallest building in the city. Request a tour of the observation deck on the 30th floor for stunning views and photos of the city skyline.
Art Alley
Hop off the streetcar at the Kauffman Center stop to visit Art Alley. Tucked away in the Crossroads Arts District, this hidden gem features an ever-changing array of graffiti art ranging from pop culture homages to surreal explorations of alley’s brick walls. It’s a prime spot for a photo opp.
First Fridays in the Crossroads
The Crossroads comes alive the first Friday of each month as thousands gather for this art crawl that has quickly become a local and regional favorite. Get off the streetcar at the Crossroads stop to enjoy live entertainment, sidewalk vendors, art galleries and food trucks.
Union Station
At the end of the streetcar route, you’ll find the Union Station. Not every attraction inside is free to enjoy, but just exploring the halls of this historic landmark is enough to fill an afternoon. Don’t miss the Model Train Gallery, which features 8,000 square feet of model trains. This free gallery is maintained by volunteers and nearly doubles in size during the holidays.
Crown Center Square
Across the street from Union Station, you’ll find the popular Crown Center entertainment district. After exploring the great dining, shops and attractions, relax outside at the Crown Center Square. The massive fountain shoots water up to 60 feet in the air, and dancing water shows are synchronized to music from the Kansas City Symphony.
Kaleidoscope
Located inside the Hallmark Visitors Center, just a short walk from the Union Station streetcar stop, Kaleidoscope is a free art-making experience. Kids can explore and create using materials leftover from Hallmark’s manufacturing plus Crayola supplies.
Federal Reserve Bank’s Money Museum
A 15-minute walk from the Union Station stop, you’ll find the Money Museum. Its interactive exhibits teach visitors about the Federal Reserve’s role within the economy. Visitors can also see the region’s largest cash vault, lift a 27-pound gold bar and view President Harry S. Truman’s extensive coin collection. Bonus: All visitors leave with a bag of shredded currency.
Walking tours
With the help of the nonprofit Clio, there are dozens of guided walking tours to help you learn more about Kansas City’s history. Whether you’re Downtown, in the Crossroads or by the Riverfront, Clio will teach you about historic buildings, famous faces, public art and more.
Lenexa Farmers Market
City of Lenexa, Kansas
Movie Night on The Lawn
Legends Outlets Kansas City
Lenexa Spinach Festival
City of Lenexa, Kansas
Art Westport
Westport Regional Business League
816 Day: Latte Special
Café Corazón-Crossroads
Fall Open House in Downtown LS
Downtown Lee's Summit
Brews in the Bottoms
West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District
The Mengel Brothers Duo
Chaz on the Plaza
Brunch & Bingo
Chicken N Pickle - Kansas City
Art Garden KC
Port KC
Art Westport
Westport Regional Business League
816 Day: Latte Special
Café Corazón-Crossroads
Brews in the Bottoms
West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District