Fall Activities in Kansas City
October is my favorite month of the year and it is a magical time in Kansas City. The crisp fall air, vibrant foliage, and a myriad of exciting events make it the perfect month to explore this charming city. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something for everyone in Kansas City in October 2023. In this blog, I will guide you through the top things to do. Scroll down for a list of events with dates and location information.
Celebrate the Fall Harvest at the Louisburg Cider Mill-
Kick off your October adventure with a visit to the Louisburg Cider Mill. Experience the joys of apple picking, sample fresh apple cider, and savor delectable apple cider donuts. Don't forget to take a scenic hayride through the orchards.
Explore the Vibrant Westport District-
Westport is known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. Stroll along Westport Road and enjoy the various shops, bars, and restaurants. In October, the district comes alive with Halloween-themed events and decorations.
Attend the Kansas City Renaissance Festival-
Travel back in time and immerse yourself in a world of knights, jousting, and medieval merriment at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival. Enjoy live entertainment, artisan vendors, and a variety of delicious food options.
Visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial-
Take a moment to reflect on history by visiting the National World War I Museum and Memorial. The museum offers a thought-provoking experience and beautiful views of Kansas City from the top of the Liberty Memorial.
Catch a Sporting Event-
If you're a sports enthusiast, October offers several opportunities to catch exciting games. Head to Arrowhead Stadium to watch the Kansas City Chiefs in action or cheer for the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium.
Enjoy Fall Foliage at Loose Park-
Embrace the beauty of autumn by spending a day at Loose Park. The park's picturesque landscapes become even more stunning as the leaves change color. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply relax by the lake.
Take a Haunted House Tour-
October wouldn't be complete without a touch of spookiness. Explore some of Kansas City's haunted attractions, like The Edge of Hell or The Beast. These haunted houses offer a thrilling experience for those seeking a scare.
Explore charming Brookside District-
Experience the charm of Brookside, Kansas City, Missouri, as you stroll through its boutique-lined streets and indulge in delightful outdoor dining on crisp autumn days. Surrounding you are majestic 100-year-old oak trees, their leaves ablaze with the rich hues of fall. The local farmers’s market runs on Saturday offering an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and seasonal treats. From pumpkins to homemade bread, pies, and lowers.
Dine al fresco on patios at Bella Napoli, Red Door Grill, Brookside Barrio, The Brooksider, Charlie Hoopers, or Michael Forbes. The crisp weather provides the perfect excuse to wrap yourself in a warm scarf while enjoying a delectable meal or yummy glass of wine.
Indulge in Barbecue Delights-
Kansas City is renowned for its mouthwatering barbecue, and you can't leave without trying some. Head to legendary barbecue joints like Arthur Bryant's, Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, or Q39 for a finger-licking good meal.
Explore the Crossroads Arts District-
Dive into the city's artistic side at the Crossroads Arts District. Discover galleries, studios, and live performances showcasing local talent. First Fridays in the district feature art openings and street vendors.
Attend Festivals and Events-
October is a month packed with festivals and events in Kansas City. Keep an eye out Oktoberfest celebrations, and music festivals that offer a taste of the city's diverse cultural scene.
October in Kansas City promises a blend of autumnal beauty, cultural exploration, and fun-filled events. With so much to see and do, you'll create unforgettable memories in this vibrant city. Whether you're a fan of history, art, food, or simply enjoying the fall season, Kansas City has something special in store for you in October 2023.
SOME FAVORITE KANSAS CITY EVENTS IN OCTOBER
October 4-22, 2023- American Royal Livestock Show
American Royal Center-1701 American Royal Ct, Kansas City, MO 64102
With a history dating back to 1899 and a well-earned reputation as one of the most challenging competitions, this legendary event attracts thousands of participants, including owners, breeders, aspiring business and agriculture leaders, and animal enthusiasts from all corners of the nation
October 4-15, 2023 - Scarecrow Trail and Pumpkin Village at Powell Gardens
Explore 24 scarecrows along the Scarecrow Trail from the Conservatory to the Children's Garden. In the Children's Garden, discover a pumpkin village with a gourd maze, pumpkin house, hayrides, and fall-themed crafts in the Education Building.
October 6-7, 2023 - KC Oktoberfest -Crown Center
Visit Crown Center for a two-day extravaganza celebrating the craft brews of KC Bier Co., complete with traditional European cuisine, interactive games and activities, and lively Bavarian-style entertainment.
October 7-8, 2023 - Weston Applefest - 526 Main Street, Weston, Mo
Discover the charms of historic Weston, Missouri, where Main Street comes alive with arts and crafts booths showcasing a delightful assortment of apple treats. These delectable offerings, including dumplings, pies, and cookies, are all lovingly crafted by members of local churches.
October 7, 2 – 8 PM - The Black Drip Coffee Octoberfest - The Roasterie Factory Cafe
A fun gathering that brings together coffee enthusiasts, music lovers, foodies, and game aficionados. Participants can look forward to a diverse range of activities, including live music performances.
October 7-8, 2023 - Missouri Town 1855 Festival of Arts, Crafts and Music - 8010 E Park Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64064
Enjoy wagon rides, reenactments, crafts and more in this annual festival that takes place at Missouri Town 1855, where guests can travel back in time to experience life in the 1850s.
October 13, 5 – 9 PM -Cornucopia: Ultimate Fall Festival -Kansas City Power and Light District
Indulge in the ultimate three-day Fall Festival in Kansas City! Cornucopia promises family-friendly fun, featuring live music, thrilling carnival rides, autumn-inspired crafts, and a delightful array of food and beverages. Best of all, admission is free for everyone, regardless of age.
October 14, 2023, 6-9pm - Botanical Brewfest -Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Enjoy fall brewfest fun at the Arboretum with samplings from dozens of local and regional breweries and restaurants. Celebrate the season with live music, dancing, games and activities, and access to the beautiful gardens and nature trails the entire day of the event.
October 14, 2023- 6:30 pm - 11 pm - Brew at the Zoo and Wine Too
Enjoy an evening of live music, delicious bites and a variety of beer and wine from local breweries and vineyards.
October 15-29, 2023 - Dark Forest at Powell Gardens
Powell Gardens embraces the arrival of autumn with "Dark Forest," an enchanting multimedia woodland adventure. Venture through a mysterious landscape where the lines between nature and the supernatural become blurred under the eerie Midwest night sky.
October 29, 11 AM – 4 PM - Berkley Riverfront Festival-1298 Riverfront Drive, KCMO
Explore the distinctive creations of Kansas City's talented artisans at Berkley Riverfront Park! With over 90 vendors showcasing handmade jewelry, decor, clothing, and much more, there's something for everyone. This family-friendly event offers a variety of activities, including food trucks, games, yoga, and crafts, and it's even dog-friendly!
October 29 & 30, 2023- Boo at the Zoo
Break out your best costume and spend the day trick-or-treating at the Kansas City Zoo. Kids will also love the Halloween-themed activities that offer plenty of treats—no tricks here!
October 31, 4 – 6 PM - Trick or Treat Street Brookside Shops, 63rd and Brookside BLVD, KCMO
On Halloween day, little witches, ghosts, goblins, pirates, princesses, and superheroes gather at Brookside Shops for a fantastic evening of trick-or-treating. Our annual Trick-or-Treat Street event brings together thousands of kids from the Kansas City metro area to kickstart their Halloween festivities. Come by for a bewitching time and let your children enjoy a spooktacular, worry-free event as they collect treats from Brookside's generous merchants and community partners.
