Welcome to the Kansas City Walking Tour
Discover Kansas City’s rich culture with this self-guided walking tour! This city isn’t just home to good barbecue and Taylor Swift’s sweetheart—it’s actually bursting with classic architecture, colorful characters, and more history than you can shake a stick at. Check out the soaring courthouse as you learn about a racketeer in league with a US president. Discover the stranger-than-fiction story of the firefighting Olympics. Explore the remnants of industrial glory in the Garment District. And so much more! Experience America’s heartland like never before.
About the Tour
Your journey through Kansas City’s vibrant downtown begins at City Hall, a beacon of local governance and architectural splendor. Then, admire the Jackson County Courthouse, a symbol of justice… and injustice? As you walk, you’ll discover where Kansas City gets that sparkling nickname: The City of Fountains.
After that, you’ll get a look at the site of two historic theaters, the Gayety and the Newman Theater. Uncover a whole new side of historic Kansas City at these sites, then move on to the spooky (and supposedly haunted) Hotel Phillips.
Stroll through Barney Allis Plaza, absorb Kansas City Jazz heritage, then catch a look at one of the only old theaters in KC that’s still standing to this day: The Folly Theater. Strolling past the Folly, you’ll see the splendor of the Kansas City Fire Department Headquarters and find out what made these brave souls the best in the business!
Sit next to famous author Mark Twain for a moment before entering the historic Garment District, where the city’s grand industrial history awaits. Continuing on, you’ll pass the remarkable New England Building and the New York Life Building, showcasing Kansas City’s unique architectural elegance. Admire the Muse of the Missouri, then delve into America’s darkest days as you learn what impact the Civil War had on this heartland metropolis.
At last, you’ll arrive at Ilus W. Davis Park, a tree-lined refuge from the bustling city. Your tour concludes here.
Traveling for the Football World Championship?
Great timing. Several host cities also happen to be Action Tour Guide destinations. Use flexible self-guided audio tours to explore more between matches, with GPS-triggered stories that fit your schedule and pace.
With the Kansas City Walking Tour, you can stroll past jazz clubs, art deco towers, and BBQ legends before or after the match.
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 200+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
Nearby Tours
Driving 78+ Stories 2 - 4 Hrs 
Driving 25+ Stories 2 - 3 Hrs Driving / Walking 47 Stories 1 - 2 Hrs Walking 24 Stories 1- 2 Hrs Kansas City Map
Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: 1180 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good Wi-Fi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours. Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever. Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators. At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace. Offline use: No cell signal or Wi-Fi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction. Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, get travel tips, hear narrated guides, and see hidden gems. Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks. Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route. Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station. 