Today, when someone in KC says “Have you seen that new…(fill in the blank)”, or “Have you visited the historic….(fill in the blank)”, they’re probably talking about a place in Kansas City, Missouri.
As the largest city in KC, Kansas City, Missouri is the city with the vibrant downtown, the historic 18th & Vine Jazz and Cultural District, the Crossroads Arts District, the world-renowned Nelson-Atkins Art Museum of Art, plus hundreds of diverse and historic neighborhoods, each with its own character and personality.
In case you didn’t know, 816 Day is named after our city’s area code and takes place yearly on August 16th. On this date in 2018, Mayor Sly James signed Resolution 180592 to celebrate the newest holiday “816 Day.”
Here’s why we think KCMO is worth celebrating:
When people can work from anywhere, they’ve been choosing KC. As the Queen City of a region of over 2.2 million people, LinkedIn ranks us No. 8 in net in-migration since the pandemic. Yes, we’re affordable, but more than that, we are livable. What does livable mean – it means that the practical stuff is so much easier – less traffic, great access, dozens of unique districts – wherever you’re going, you’re probably going to pay less for what you want. Livable means less stress, less hassles, less of those daily frustrations that can make big cities so much less fun.
As a city, we can boast big-city experiences with a hometown feel. Championship pro teams, renowned museums, spirited college rivalries, jazz clubs and we can’t forget our barbecue legacy. Kansas City has more than 65 performing arts groups, the Crossroads Arts District and is home to the extraordinary Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. The Paris of the Plains serves up handcrafted cocktails, craft beer and music all over the city.
And when it comes to our economy, diversity is our strength. While cities that dominate in specific categories live in cycles of boom and bust, KCMO has a broad economic base that ensures steady and consistent growth. Our world-leading companies span everything from engineering and architecture to advertising and consumer goods. In KCMO, we talk sectors – transportation, logistics, animal health and one of the fastest-growing tech communities in the country.
Our philanthropic organizations are recognized nationally for entrepreneurship, medical innovations and commitment to improving life for our neighbors in need.
Maybe this is part of the reason for this headline in the Chicago Tribute: “KANSAS CITY: SORRY IT TOOK ME SO LONG. I GET IT NOW.”