18th and Vine District Ripe for the Picking
The historic 18th and Vine District is one of the most famous and popular in KCMO. It’s where you’ll find the American Jazz Museum and the Black Archives of Mid-America. The Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce, Mutual Musician’s Foundation, and Kansas City Blues & Jazz Juke House also call this area home. Visit the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey to get insider’s tips on what to see first, or head straight to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum for a peek into the history of the sport in KCMO from a black lens.
This district is committed to preserving the history of African Americans in KCMO, from dining to jazz or baseball and more, and it’s where you’ll find, arguably, the best jazz and blues in the city. It’s also famous for having some of the best dining and most interesting architecture around.
Must-Sees at 18th and Vine
Don’t miss out on the Charlie Parker Memorial, a favorite for enjoying the beauty of the outdoors (and taking that famous selfie by the memorial). The American Jazz Museum also has a working jazz club, The Blue Room, featuring phenomenal local jazz. The jam session welcomes all, so feel free to bring your instrument—or rent one nearby!
Arthur Bryant’s is a famous local foodie joint that has celebrity draws, with slow smoked BBQ covered in their original or rich and spicy sauce. Have the blues brunch at the Kansas City Blues & Jazz Juke House or go to Danny’s Big Easy for Cajun. No trip to KCMO is complete without exploring this unique district with a rich history (and richer fare!).
