The area around the junction of the Kansas and Missouri rivers was originally thought to be a good place for settlements. The area saw many settlers from Europe, including the French, the Spanish and the British. In 1763, the Spanish claimed the region, and under the Treaty of Paris, they allowed the French to pursue their fur trade under license. In 1834, Westport Landing was founded as a landing point on the Missouri River bend. A few years later in 1838, fourteen investors purchased the land, dividing it in 1849 and later selling it in 1846. In 1850, the Town of Kansas was incorporated on that land and the scene was set for the town’s future strategic importance with three major trails passing through the area – Santa Fe, California, and Oregon. The City of Kansas was established on February 22, 1853. Due to its location, Kansas City and its surrounding area saw plenty of military action during the Civil War. However, this helped the city to prosper rather quickly leading to its growth. As the population grew dramatically, in 1889 it officially became known as Kansas City, with Westport becoming part of it in 1897. Over the past 20 years, $6 billion has been spent improving and redeveloping downtown Kansas City.

Every Saturday and Sunday at Overland Park you will find the region’s largest all-year-round farmers market. With more than 140 stalls of items freshly grown, made, baked, or preserved, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Take a shop and a stroll through Kansas City’s premier retail center, the Country Club Plaza. Sitting on 15 city blocks of Spanish-inspired architecture mixed in with water fountains, there are plenty of great shops, designer brands and fantastic restaurants to look forward to.

Crown Center is another shopping center selling absolutely everything you will ever need. Here you will also find the city’s first aquarium and a LEGO experience for children. There is also a Hallmark-run creativity section where children can let their imagination run wild while making artwork.

Another great way to spend the day out is with a visit to the Kansas City Zoo, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. The T-Mobile Center also hosts some fun events, which is one reason why it is one of the country’s busiest arenas attracting both national and international acts.