​10 Things to Love About KC This Fall

Fall is one of the best times of year to be in Kansas City. The sweltering summer heat has finally given way to cooler temperatures, leaves are transforming into shades of red and yellow, and there’s TONS to do here! Check out some of the awesome things that make KC a great place to be in fall:

1. The weather - I know I already mentioned this, but it’s such a big deal that it needs its own write-up. Seriously, summer in KC can be brutal, so when afternoon highs start dropping to the 60s, people here take notice. The whole city seems to come alive with activity, and everyone is excited not to be cooped up inside where the AC is.
2. Parks - The KC metro area is home to some pretty fabulous parks, like Loose Park, Swope Park, and Shawnee Mission Park. On the weekends, these are the places to be to really enjoy the beautiful weather and changing scenery. Whether you’re lounging on a picnic blanket or playing disc golf, the park system in Kansas City and the surrounding suburban cities is pretty phenomenal.
3. Chiefs football - When you’re in KC, you’re in Chiefs Kingdom, and believe me, you know it. This town loves its home team, and a trip to Arrowhead to see a game live will be an experience you don’t forget. Kansas City has one of the best fan bases in the NFL, so put on your red and join ‘em!
4. Haunted houses - Kansas City has been called the Haunted House Capital of the World, thanks to the large number of spooky attractions we have. The West Bottoms is home to houses such as The Beast, The Edge of Hell, and other famous favorites. Visiting a haunted house during the Halloween season has become a tradition for many Kansas Citians, and I promise you it’s worth waiting in line to get inside one of them.
5. The Renaissance Festival - Every fall, the festival grounds in nearby Bonner Springs, KS are transformed into a quaint 16th century village, complete with knights, court jesters, royalty, and tons of other characters. Indulge in some of the delicious foods (hello, turkey legs), watch a jousting match, or browse the shops featuring superb craftsmanship by local vendors. Or you can just people watch (that’s what I do).
6. Cider mills - What is fall without a mug of hot cider and some fresh apple cider donuts? It’s incomplete, that’s what. Louisburg Cider Mill is just a short drive from the heart of the city, and this is the place to be on Saturday mornings in autumn. I’m not exaggerating when I say the donuts and cider alone are worth making the trip.
7. American Royal - One of the biggest attractions in the city this time of year is the American Royal. Running from September to December, the major events include a BBQ cookoff, a rodeo, and a horse show, but there are lots of other happenings as well. It’s an awesome event that takes KC back to its cowtown roots and brings the community together at the same time.
8. Fall festivals - Since fall is one of the most pleasant times of year in KC, there are tons of festivals that go on throughout the city. From the Plaza Art Fair to PorchFestKC (a music festival) to the Irish Fest and Oktoberfest, there’s a party going on virtually every weekend.
9. Worlds of Fun - Our hometown amusement park stays open until Halloween, and fall is the perfect time to visit. Ride one of the seven roller coasters or, for those who don’t like heights, check out one of the tamer rides or other attractions. During October nights, the park does Halloween Haunt, which has 5 “scare zones”, 8 mazes, and horror-themed shows.
10. Pumpkin patches - Fall and pumpkin patches go together like cookies and milk, and KC has no shortage of patches bearing all sizes of pumpkins and gourds. Places like Faulkner’s Ranch and Pumpkin Farm and Carolyn’s Country Cousins Pumpkin Patch are local favorites, and they have more than just pumpkins, too. There are hayrides, corn mazes, games, and tons of activities for kids and families.

This really is the best time of year to be in Kansas City. Between the amazing weather and beautiful fall colors, there’s tons going on in and around the city. It’s a great place to call home or invest in, because the market is only going to get hotter and more and more people realize how awesome KC is.