Kansas City is a major metropolitan area located in the United States, primarily straddling the border of the states of Missouri and Kansas. It’s often divided into two main sections: Kansas City, Missouri (often referred to as KCMO) and Kansas City, Kansas (often referred to as KCK). Here’s a geographical description of both sides:
- Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO):
- Location: KCMO is situated on the western side of the Missouri-Kansas state line.
- Missouri River: The city is located along the Missouri River, which serves as a natural boundary between Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas.
- Topography: The terrain in KCMO varies, with some hilly areas, but it’s mostly characterized by rolling plains.
- River Market: The River Market area is near the river and is known for its farmers’ market, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene.
- Downtown: The downtown area is the central business district of KCMO and contains many skyscrapers, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions.
- Cultural Attractions: KCMO is home to various cultural attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Zoo, and the National World War I Museum and Memorial.
- Sports: It hosts professional sports teams, such as the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL) and the Kansas City Royals (MLB).
- Kansas City, Kansas (KCK):
- Location: KCK is located on the eastern side of the Missouri-Kansas state line, directly across from KCMO.
- Kansas River: Like KCMO, KCK is situated along the Kansas River, another significant waterway in the region.
- Topography: The topography in KCK is relatively flat and less hilly than the Missouri side.
- Village West: This area is known for the Village West Entertainment District, which includes attractions like the Kansas Speedway and the Legends Outlets Kansas City shopping center.
- Sporting KC: Sporting Kansas City, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, is based in KCK.
Both sides of the Kansas City metropolitan area are part of the larger Kansas City metropolitan region, which extends beyond the city limits into both Kansas and Missouri. The Missouri side, in particular, is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, while the Kansas side boasts attractions like the Kansas Speedway and Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The region as a whole is known for its barbecue culture and its rich history in jazz music.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.