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KANSAS CITY

2026 World Cup Fan Embassy information guide

Known for its barbecue, jazz heritage, and for being the home of Ted Lasso, Kansas City is actually two cities divided by a state line: Kansas City, Missouri (which locals refer to as “KCMO”) and Kansas City, Kansas (or “KCK”). Visitors will be greeted by Midwestern hospitality as they explore the city’s entertainment districts, local breweries, and historic neighborhoods. Most major visitor attractions –  including downtown, the jazz district, and the World Cup stadium – are on the Missouri side. Kansas City is home to deeply loyal sports fans and, thanks to its passionate supporter scene, is becoming one of the centers of soccer culture in the United States.

Know before you go:

  • Barbecue isn’t just food here—it’s part of the city’s identity. Everyone has a favorite, and debates are expected.

  • The KC Streetcar runs through the heart of downtown Kansas City from the River Market through the Crossroads district, Crown Center, and down to the Country Club Plaza and the University of Missouri–Kansas City. The expansion north of the River Market to the Berkley Riverfront Park and CPKC stadium is set to open on May 18th.

  • New Missouri law allows KC-area bars and restaurants to operate 23 hours a day, serving alcohol from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following day, between June 11 and July 19, 2026, to accommodate World Cup matches. While many establishments are expected to extend hours, others may not due to staffing shortages, so hours will vary by location.

NEIGHBORHOODS
SOCCER-FRIENDLY BARS
WHERE TO EAT
LOCAL SUPPORTERS

KANSAS CITY

NEIGHBOORHOODS

Downtown KCMO

  • Historic core of the city with landmarks like the KC Public Library, plus easy access to bars, restaurants, and transit.

City Market/River Market

  • One of the most vibrant areas in KC. Known for international food, local vendors, and proximity to CPKC Stadium (home of the Kansas City Current).

Westport

  • Classic nightlife district with a mix of bars, restaurants, and late-night spots. Good energy, especially on weekends.

Parkville (MO), Overland Park (KS), Leawood (KS), Mission (KS)

  • Suburban areas with strong food options, breweries, and more relaxed settings. Good for exploring beyond downtown or if you’re staying outside the core.

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KANSAS CITY

SOCCER-FRIENDLY BARS

Johnny’s Tavern (1310 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO)

  • Located in the Power & Light District. Official American Outlaws KC bar and Arsenal supporters spot. Food, drinks, and a reliable matchday crowd. A few blocks from the KC Streetcar.

No Other Pub (1370 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO)

  • Named after a Sporting KC chant. Part sports bar, part gaming space, with a massive video wall. Good energy and right in the Power & Light District, near the Streetcar.

The Dub (105 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO)

  • LGBTQIA+-friendly safe space that primarily shows women’s sports, but will have World Cup matches on. Offers a welcoming atmosphere and close to the Streetcar.

River Bluff Brewing (River Market) (201 Main St, Ste. 101, Kansas City, MO)

  • In the River Market area with multiple TVs and a relaxed setup. Easy to get to and close to the Streetcar line.

Strange Days Brewing Co. (316 Oak St, Kansas City, MO)

  • Known for globally inspired beers and a rotating tap list. Food available through Burn Theory Fire Kitchen (availability may vary). Indoor/outdoor seating and near the Streetcar.

KC Bier Co. (310 W 79th St, Kansas City, MO)

  • German-style brewery with communal tables and a traditional beer hall feel. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

Casual Animal Brewing Co. (1725 McGee St, Kansas City, MO)

  • Crossroads area brewery with a laid-back vibe and a solid beer lineup. Close to downtown and the Streetcar.

International Tap House (Crossroads) (403 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO)

Maloney’s Sports Bar & Grill (7201 W 79th St, Overland Park, KS)

  • Located on the Kansas side in old Overland Park. Big space with rooftop and patio seating, tons of TVs, and solid for catching matches.

Red Lyon Tavern (944 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS)

  • A bit outside KC, but a true soccer pub. Strong matchday atmosphere and a deep beer list.

KANSAS CITY

WHERE TO EAT

BARBECUE

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (3002 W 47th Ave, Kansas City, KS)

  • The legendary gas station BBQ spot. A must.

Arthur Bryant’s (1727 Brooklyn Ave, Kansas City, MO)

  • One of the originals. Historic and no-frills.

Q39 (multiple locations)

  • Modern BBQ that still delivers at a high level.

Jack Stack Barbecue (multiple locations)

  • A more polished BBQ experience without losing quality.

Gates Bar-B-Q (multiple locations)

  • Famous for its loud, fast-paced ordering – know what you want before you get to the counter.

Char Bar (4050 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO)

  • BBQ with a great patio and yard games—good for groups.

KC Originals & Local Staples

Lidia’s (101 W 22nd St, Kansas City, MO)

  • Italian spot tied to KC’s historic Crossroads district.

Garozzo’s (526 Harrison St, Kansas City, MO)

  • Old-school Italian with deep local roots.

La Bodega (703 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO)

  • Spanish tapas spot that’s been a KC favorite for years.

Breweries & Drinks

Boulevard Brewing Company (2534 Madison Ave, Kansas City, MO)

  • The flagship KC brewery. Big space, local staple.

  • J. Rieger & Co. Distillery (2700 Guinotte Ave, Kansas City, MO)

  • Historic distillery with a strong KC identity.

Lifted Spirits Distillery (1734 Cherry St, Kansas City, MO)

  • Smaller craft distillery with a solid cocktail program.

Unique to the KC Food Scene

Cru Bistro & Bottles (128 W 63rd St, Kansas City, MO)

  • Local french bistro with seasonal dishes and wine selections in the heart of Brookside

Buck Tui BBQ  (6737 W 75th St, Overland Park, KS)

  • One of the most unique spots in the metro—Thai flavors meet KC barbecue.

Christopher Elbow Chocolates (1819 McGee St, Kansas City, MO)

  • High-end, locally made chocolates.

André’s Confiserie Suisse (5018 Main St, Kansas City, MO)

  • European-style chocolates and desserts with KC history.

Messenger Coffee Co. (1624 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO)

  • Multi-level roastery, bakery, and rooftop space—one of the best hang spots in the city.

Oddly Correct (4141 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO)

  • Minimalist coffee shop known for doing things right.

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KANSAS CITY

LOCAL SUPPORTERS

Find and follow the local supporters on Instagram!

 

Supports Sporting Kansas City (MLS):

 

Supports KC Current (NWSL)

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