Kansas City, Missouri, has been recognized as one of the world’s premier travel destinations for 2025, securing the 22nd spot on the BBC’s prestigious list of the 25 Best Places to Travel. This accolade places Kansas City alongside renowned locations such as Western Australia, Sri Lanka, Dominica, Naoshima in Japan, The Dolomites in Italy, Greenland, and Wales.
A Cultural and Culinary Renaissance
Historically dubbed the “Paris of the Plains,” Kansas City is undergoing a vibrant transformation. The city is actively promoting its creative arts scene and reaffirming its status as one of North America’s barbecue capitals. An urban revitalization plan is underway, featuring the introduction of new museums, entertainment districts, and hotels, all contributing to the city’s dynamic cultural landscape.
Record-Breaking Tourism Statistics
In 2023, Kansas City welcomed a record-breaking 28.4 million visitors, marking a 4.9% increase from the previous year. These visitors contributed nearly $4 billion in spending, an 11% rise from 2022. The tourism sector generated a total economic impact of $6.7 billion and supported approximately 128,000 jobs in the hospitality and leisure industries.
Key Developments Elevating Kansas City’s Appeal
Several significant developments have enhanced Kansas City’s attractiveness to both domestic and international travelers:
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI): The opening of a new single terminal at MCI has modernized the travel experience with upgraded technology, local restaurants, amenities, and world-class art installations. In 2023, the airport served over 11.5 million passengers, a 17.7% increase from the previous year.
- KC Streetcar Expansion: The KC Streetcar system has seen substantial growth in ridership, with an average of 5,020 daily boardings in 2023. The free-to-ride streetcar enhances connectivity within the city, making it more accessible for tourists to explore various attractions.
- Upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026: As a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Kansas City is preparing to welcome thousands of international visitors. The event is expected to significantly boost the local economy and further elevate the city’s global profile.
Visitor Demographics and Spending Patterns
Of the 28.4 million visitors in 2023, approximately 13 million stayed overnight, spending nearly $3 billion during their trips. International visitor spending also saw an increase, reaching approximately $99 million, up from $61 million in 2022. This upward trend reflects Kansas City’s growing appeal on the global stage.
Kansas City’s Tourism Statistics (2022 vs. 2023)
| Metric | 2022 | 2023 | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Visitors | 27.1 million | 28.4 million | +4.9% |
| Visitor Spending | $3.6 billion | $4.0 billion | +11% |
| Economic Impact | $6.0 billion | $6.7 billion | +11.7% |
| International Visitor Spending | $61 million | $99 million | +62.3% |
| Airport Passengers (MCI) | 9.8 million | 11.5 million | +17.7% |
Future Prospects
Kansas City’s recognition by the BBC and its record-breaking tourism statistics underscore the city’s successful efforts in urban revitalization and cultural promotion. With upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and continuous investments in infrastructure and the arts, Kansas City is poised to sustain and enhance its status as a premier international travel destination.
