Top Summer Destinations

Come find your perfect summer story in Kansas City and the surrounding region! Let joyful ragtime music carry you away, explore fascinating museums and art exhibitions or stroll through free sculpture walks less than an hour away. Connect with neighbors, discover hidden gems and enjoy all our area has to offer. Explore our list of top summer destinations and start making memories!

Sedalia: Where Ragtime Captured The Nation’s Heart

In the spirit of America’s rich musical heritage, visit the 2026 Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival, May 27 – 30, featuring the best performers in the nation and abroad. From lively outdoor performances and elegant evening concerts to educational symposia and historic tours aboard an authentic trolley, there’s something for everyone to enjoy — all in the heart of Sedalia, where Scott Joplin’s legacy lives on!

A Summer of Art and Storytelling at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art

Spend the summer immersed in art at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art. This season features the expressive sculptures and paintings of Hollis Williford, the contemplative prairie landscapes of Keith Jacobshagen and the forthcoming Spirit of Independence portfolio exhibition. Together, these exhibitions invite visitors to explore narrative, place and American identity through a diverse range of artistic voices and mediums. Financial assistance provided by the St. Joseph, Missouri Visitors Bureau and the Missouri Arts Council.

Celebrate the Spirit of the West with Western Fine Art!

Saddle up for the Western Art Show & Sale in Leavenworth, Kansas, on Saturday, June 27! Discover extraordinary Western fine art capturing iconic figures and scenes from rugged cowboys to proud Native Americans and vast frontier landscapes. Meet talented artists, purchase original works, and immerse yourself in the spirit of the American frontier. Don’t miss this one-day showcase of artistry and tradition. Leavenworth’s Western Art Show & Sale, where history rides again!

Discover Art in Motion: 2026 St. Joseph Sculpture Walk

Experience downtown St. Joseph like never before with the 2026 Sculpture Walk. This outdoor gallery features stunning, larger-than-life sculptures from talented artists across the country. Stroll at your own pace, explore local shops and restaurants and vote for your favorite piece. It’s a free, family-friendly way to celebrate creativity, community and the power of public art.