Known for its rich jazz heritage and mouth-watering barbecue, Kansas City, MO, is a city that effortlessly blends Midwestern charm with urban sophistication. The city’s thriving arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and passionate sports culture make it an exciting place to call home. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Kansas City or you’re looking for homes in the city, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Kansas City you’ll want to know.
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Quick facts about Kansas City
| Median home sale price | $285,000 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,177 |
| Walk Score | 35/100 |
| Transit Score | 25/100 |
| Bike Score | 35/100 |
1. Russell Stover is based in Kansas City
Russell Stover, the renowned chocolatier, has its headquarters in Kansas City, adding a sweet note to the city’s diverse business landscape. Founded in 1923, the company has become one of America’s leading producers of boxed chocolates and candy. This local business has grown into a beloved brand, known for its quality confections and wide product range.
2. Kansas City is the BBQ capital of the world
Kansas City is known as the BBQ capital of the world, with over 100 barbecue restaurants serving up delicious smoked meats and tangy sauces. The city’s BBQ scene is a major draw for foodies and visitors from around the globe
3. Kansas City has more barbeque restaurants per capita than any other city
The city is famed for its rich barbeque tradition, boasting more barbeque restaurants per capita than anywhere else in the country, a stat that backs up the previous Kansas City fun fact. The city’s barbeque culture is celebrated annually during the American Royal World Series of Barbecue, the largest barbeque competition in the world.
4. Kansas City is full of fountains
Kansas City is often referred to as the “City of Fountains” due to its impressive collection of over 200 fountains. These beautiful and ornate water features can be found throughout the city, adding to its unique charm.
5. There are over 25 colleges and universities in the city
Kansas City is an educational hub with over 25 colleges and universities offering a wide range of academic programs. These institutions, including the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Rockhurst University, are key contributors to the city’s intellectual and cultural vitality. These schools foster a vibrant student population and support a dynamic research and innovation environment.
6. Kansas City’s Major League Baseball team was named after a local livestock fair
The Kansas City Royals, the city’s Major League Baseball team, derive their name from the American Royal, a historic livestock show and rodeo. Established in 1899, the American Royal reflects the region’s agricultural heritage and continues to be a major annual event. The team’s name honors this local tradition, symbolizing the city’s deep-rooted connection to its agricultural past.
7. Kansas City ignored Prohibition during the 1920’s
During the 1920s, Kansas City earned a reputation for defying Prohibition, with numerous speakeasies and jazz clubs thriving throughout the decade. Though the policy didn’t stay in place long, this era allowed the city’s nightlife to thrive, contributing to its cultural and musical heritage.
8. Before breaking the MLB color barrier, Jackie Robinson played for the Kansas City Monarchs
Jackie Robinson, who famously broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947, played for the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro Leagues before joining the Brooklyn Dodgers. His time with the Monarchs showcased his exceptional talent and set the stage for his historic career in the MLB.
9. The world’s largest shuttlecock resides in Kansas City
Kansas City is home to the world’s largest shuttlecock, which is located at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. This 18-foot-tall badminton birdie sculpture has become a quirky and iconic symbol of the city.
10. Kansas City’s Swope Park is twice as big as Central Park in New York City
Swope Park, spanning 1,805 acres, is more than twice the size of New York City’s Central Park. It features numerous attractions, including the Kansas City Zoo, golf courses, and hiking trails. As one of the largest urban parks in the country, it offers many recreational opportunities for locals.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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