7 Mini Live Music Itineraries for Popular Venues in Kansas City
Kansas City is a haven for live music fans. Historic, intimate venues host indie acts throughout the year while the world’s biggest acts pay visits to one of the busiest arenas in the country.
Whether in town for a show or a local in search of a fun dinner to pair with your concert experience, these seven mini itineraries have what you need to enjoy the perfect live music night out.
Starlight Theatre
The Venue
Sing along to songs under the stars at Starlight Theatre. And while the outdoor concert site located in Swope Park seats thousands, it remains as intimate a venue as you’ll find in the city.
Before
Start on the picture-perfect patio at Aixois, a bistro in Brookside where you can start your night with a glass of wine, a tray of charcuterie and other French favorites.
After
Treat yourself to a margarita or two at Mission Taco Joint in the South Plaza neighborhood, not far from where you dined during dinner and only a short drive from the theatre.
T-Mobile Center
The Venue
There’s a reason why T-Mobile Center is one of the biggest arenas in the country: only the biggest stars perform here. The 18,972-seat venue has hosted everyone from Drake and Paul McCartney to Garth Brooks, who performed nine straight sold-out shows during the facility’s inaugural year.
Before
Fantastic dining options await across the street at the Power & Light District, Kansas City’s high-energy entertainment hub. Star the night with sustainably sourced seafood at Bristol or high-quality steaks at 801 Chophouse, each the perfect precursor to your show at T-Mobile Center.
After
Hit the town. Nightclubs, a karaoke bar and a piano bar keep the open-air KC Live! Block in P&L humming long after the encore at Sprint Center.
The Midland Theatre
The Venue
One of the most stunning venues in Kansas City is also one of its finest. Expect nationally known musicians to grace the stage at The Midland Theatre, and while the biggest fans crowd the dancefloor, three different levels offer an array of listening experiences for visitors.
Before
Located on the KC Streetcar line, The Midland makes it easy to enjoy other parts of Downtown prior to the band taking the stage. Start with dinner at Pigwich, an excellent sandwich shop serving up fresh fare, or try something inspired by international flavors, like Taste of Brazil, both in The City Market.
After
A speakeasy just seems right after a show at The Midland. Travel by foot to Hotel Phillips, where a secret password grants you entrance to the property’s classy P.S. Speakeasy. Further down the streetcar line, Manifesto is another basement bar that always wows guests of appropriate age.
Riot Room
The Venue
The edgy Riot Room is a staple for indie artists right in the heart of Westport, KC’s original entertainment district. The slight space makes up for lack of square footage with an excellent selection of craft beer taps and drink options.
Before
But before the show, start the evening with a bite at one of Westport’s excellent kitchens. Try out local ‘cue at Char Bar, which also offers an excellent patio setup. There’s also Westport Café & Bar, a French cuisine spot that features a decidedly more refined dinner.
After
End your night at Ça Va, a cozy champagne bar that offers a relaxed vibe—ideal after a raucous show at Riot Room. Who knows, you may even witness a live jazz nightcap to close the bar down.
Azura Amphitheater
The Venue
Another outdoor arena, Azura Amphitheater offers a variety of listening experiences in Bonner Springs, KS, including standing room in the pit with stadium seating behind the crowds and lawn seating a little further back.
Before
KCK is known for its barbecue and Mexican food. Try Slap’s BBQ beforehand for down-home smoked meats or El Pollo Rey for wood-fired chicken tacos.
After
Head back into town to conclude to your night out at The Campground, an understatedly cool cocktail bar in the historic West Bottoms.
The Rino
The Venue
The Rino touts a community of devoted followers who frequently rock out to shows in this North Kansas City space.
Before
North Kansas City is known for its incredible assortment of craft breweries and distilleries. Grab a preshow drink at Cinder Block, Big Rip and Calibration or Restless Spirits. If coffee better floats your boat, Colony KC has you covered—and its connected to the venue.
After
Finish the night strong with a late-night bite from Chicken N Pickle (if it’s still open for the evening) or Tay’s Burger Shack, a legend in the NKC casual dining scene.
Green Lady Lounge
The Venue
One of KC’s preeminent live music venues, the Green Lady Lounge is a jazz club that keeps the spirit of the genre thriving right in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District.
Before
Special occasions shine at The Rockhill Grille, a hip New American restaurant just steps away from the Green Lady Lounge. Grab dinner or a cocktail here before finding a spot at the jazz club.
After
Finish the night strong at SoT, a supremely cool bar that crafts one-of-a-kind drinks and resides only a few blocks away. Craving something savory? Don’t pass up the after-hours menu at Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, which is bound to have live music of its own playing for guests.
Looking to learn more about live music in Kansas City? From small, close-up shows to huge, sold-out concerts, there’s always a live performance to be seen in KC.