Local Information

Jazz musician

Explore Kansas City and the surrounding area by registering for one of the exciting JCLC Local Area Tours!

The largest city in Missouri, Kansas City is characterized by strong racial and cultural diversity that includes African, African American, Asian, Latino, Italian, Irish, German, Native American, Slavic, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern peoples. The city boasts historical and cultural attractions throughout the city, including the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, the Filipino Cultural Center, the Latino Cultural Arts Division of Mattie Rhodes, and the Line Creek Archeological Museum.  In addition, beautiful fountains, fantastic architecture, a vibrant arts scene, superb shopping and great blues and jazz clubs are just a few of the activities that the city has to offer.  The legacy of the diverse communities and historical attractions makes Kansas City is a meeting location that represents the interests of the Joint Conference of Librarians of Color.

Kansas City has many attractions including over 200 fountains-- the Spirit of Freedom Fountain (Cleveland Avenue and Brush Creek Boulevard) is a tribute to the contributions of African-American citizens to the history of Kansas City.  Jazz has been a staple of the KC music scene since the 1920s with artists like Count Basie, Bennie Moton and Jay McShann. The American Jazz Museum chronicles the city’s jazz legacy and showcases legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington.Head to the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District to learn more about the genre’s rich roots and to view the Charlie Parker Memorial Plaza. The city also boasts world-renowned museums and libraries like the American Jazz Museum, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the Black Archives of Mid-America. 

For information on things to do, places to eat, and getting around in Kansas City, visit this KC visitors' guide for JCLC attendees.