The 82 Best Places in Kansas City for Pictures

Whether you’re a local or planning a visit to KC, here’s a list of the Best places in Kansas City for pictures.

If it’s for Instagram, senior pictures, wedding photos or family photos, Kansas City has a ton of awesome locations for taking pictures. It has lots of beautiful churches, parks, buildings and historic locations. And of course, there’s a reason it’s called the City of Fountains!

All images in this article are by the author unless otherwise linked to the original source.

Best Overall

These are the places in Kansas City with the most opportunities for great, memorable photos. Each of these as many and wide-ranging locations for photos for any occasion. You’ll see these broken down further on this page.

• Union Station
• Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
• Crown Center
• City Market

Kansas City Standards (7)

Union Station (Exterior and Lobby)

Union Station is perhaps the most photographed location in Kansas City due to its majestic exterior or the impressively large lobby and interior.

Liberty Memorial

The Liberty Memorial commemorates America’s role in World War I. This tower has an elevator that you can access without purchasing a ticket from the nearby World War I Museum (which is totally worth the ticket itself, BTW). It is over 20 stories tall. From the top you have an unobstructed view of the entire horizon surrounding Kansas City.

Western Auto Sign

This massive neon sign is visible across the entire downtown area so it’s great to capture from a distance. However, if you’re able to get a tenant to let you in you can gain access to the rooftop and capture a close-up image.

Shuttlecocks at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson is given more attention later, but these shuttlecocks (also known as badminton birdies) have become a symbol of Kansas City, no matter how random they may seem. We were just as confused as you probably are when they were installed in 1994, but we’ve come to accept them as our own.

The Scout (Statue)

This statue, known as The Scout, was created in 1915 as a memorial to local First Nation tribes. Originally constructed for the Panama Pacific Exposition in San Francisco in 1915, it was purchased by the city and installed in 1922.

J.C. Nichols Fountain (Mill Creek Park Fountain)

This is reason Kansas City is called The City of Fountains. Sure, there are lots of them in KC, but this is the centerpiece.

The Mill Creek Park Fountain is located on the edge of the Plaza, and is commonly dyed blue for the Royals baseball team and also a location for political rallies.

Note that it was recently renamed. What was formerly the J.C. Nichols fountain was renamed to the Mill Creek Fountain due to the racist real estate policies the designer and developer of the Country Club Plaza held.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

The Kauffman Center is KC’s home for fine arts, ranging from operas to concerts to plays to even TEDx Talks. The striking exterior design holds a million interesting angles for some great pictures. This is definitely one of the best places in Kansas City for pictures.

Where to Photograph the KC Skyline (8)

Summit St Overpass

The spot where Summit Street crosses over I-670 (near the FBI Complex) is one of KC’s best kept secrets for capturing the skyline. This bridge is a quiet road and great for group photos.

The Scout (Penn Valley Park)

The Scout is perhaps the most recognizable statue in Kansas City. Located on a hill just south of Union Station and the Liberty Memorial, it’s a location to capture the downtown skyline from the south, along with the iconic statue

Kaw Point Park

Kaw Point Park is across the Missouri River in Kansas City, Kansas. It’s a fantastic spot to capture a photo of the KC skyline with the Missouri River in the foreground.

Liberty Memorial

The view from the top of the Liberty Memorial is nothing short of breathtaking. Photos from this tower capture Union Station, the Western Auto sign, Bartle Sky Stations (the 4 artistic towers over Bartle Hall) and all of Kansas City, MO’s skyscrapers.

The only downside to this location is access is limited to times when the elevator is open, so be sure to check on that before you set out.

Other great spots:

• 21st & Woodland Avenue
• Berkley Riverfront Park
• Waterworks Park
• Hospital Hill

Fun Instagram Opportunities (10)

KC Public Library

The Central branch of the Kansas City Public Library (located at 10th and Baltimore Ave) is housed in what was originally the First National Bank building. So it is not only an example of fantastic architecture, you can visit and photograph the old bank vault on the lower level.

Additionally, the 10th Street side of the complex has been converted to a gigantic bookshelf that is the perfect opportunity for some fun photos.

Town Topic Burgers

This 24-hour burger joint is one of the best spots in KC to grab a burger. There are two locations about a quarter mile apart, one on Broadway and another on Baltimore.

Art Alley

What could just be a common alleyway has been transformed by local artists into an outdoor gallery of street art. Tucked into the Crossroads Art District, this spot is one of KC’s best kept secrets. The approximate location is at 512 E. 18th St.

Uptown Theater

Uptown Theater was completed in 1927, and is currently one of the most popular music venues in Kansas City. The interior is absolutely fabulous after a $15M renovation/restoration completed recently. Note that the photos below are not the most recent: it now features a digital screen instead of the old-fashioned signage.

Midland Theater

The Midland Theater is Kansas City’s home for shows ranging from concerts to Broadway plays and ballet. It features over 500,000 feet of gold leaf, and some amazing chandeliers.

City Workhouse Castle

Located on historic Vine Street, the Kansas City Workhouse Castle has a long and storied history. Although the architecture is stunning and unique, it currently serves as a great spot for graffiti photography.

12th Street Viaduct

The 12th Street Viaduct is a two-tiered bridge, and the lower section is a famous local spot for photos. Although the top section is as busy as an interstate, the lower deck has nearly no traffic and has some great views.

Other cool locations:

• “#KC Loves” Mural
• Kessler Park Reservoir
• Prospero Books

Best places in Kansas City for pictures of Architecture (12)

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (also known as simply “The Nelson”) is one of the most-visited attractions in Kansas City. Found just east of The Country Club Plaza, the museum and its grounds are full of beautiful and wonderful views for pictures, ranging from fun Instagram shots to full-fledged wedding photography.

Kit Bond Bridge

The Christopher “Kit” Bond Bridge spans the Missouri River on the northeast side of downtown.

Power and Light Building

The Kansas City Power and Light building, an icon of our skyline, was completed in 1931. Its 34 floors made it the tallest building west of the Mississippi River until the Space Needle was built in 1962, and the tallest habitable building until One U.S. Bank Plaza was built in St. Louis in 1976.

This is best caught at night when the spire’s lights change color. These colors change to reflect the holidays, as well as special events in local life.

The Giralda Tower on the Plaza

This landmark is hard to miss when you’re on the Country Club Plaza, but if you need more detailed location, this building currently houses the Cheesecake Factory. It’s just across the street from the The Mill Creek Park Fountain (formerly known as the J.C. Nichols Fountain), a Kansas City icon.

Community of Christ Independence Temple

This church serves as the headquarters of the Community Of Christ (formerly known as the RLDS Church). It has an impressive spire that contains a winding staircase to the top of the steeple. Additionally, it is open to the public, and has a museum and gift shop.

Live Stock Exchange Building

Located in the Stockyards District of the West Bottoms, the Live Stock Exchange was built in 1911. It is currently an office building, so you can get some great photos inside.

Hotel Phillips

Hotel Phillips was completed in 1931, and among Kansas City’s first skyscrapers. The interior was recently restored, bringing the ornate lobby back to its original glory. This is an absolutely beautiful building, and it’s completely worth going inside to get some very memorable pictures.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a downtown landmark due to its shining gold tower. Opened in 1883, this church features an incredible interior definitely worth checking out.

NY Life Insurance building

The New York Life Insurance Building is a unique (and very old) structure in Downtown Kansas City. When it was built in 1890 it towered over the local skyline. It is 10 stories tall and at the time most buildings topped out at two or three stories.

T-Mobile Center

Formerly the Sprint Center, this is the central place for concerts and events in Kansas City. It is right on the edge of the Power and Light district, and there is always something fun going on to photograph nearby.

Arrowhead Stadium

Officially known as “GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, ” Arrowhead is home to the Kansas City Chiefs and holds the title for “Loudest Crowd Roar” in the Guinness Book of World records.

Kauffman Stadium

Kauffman Stadium is affectionately know as “The K” around town. Although some still use its older name (Royals Stadium), it is a fantastic place in Kansas City for pictures.

Children’s Mercy Park (Sporting Kansas City)

Sporting Kansas City is our local MLS team, and every match is a party. This park is located on the western edge of the metro area in Kansas City, Kansas, and features an ultra-modern design, and fantastic views of an always-animated crowd.

Breweries/Distilleries (4)

Boulevard Brewing Company

Boulevard Brewing Co. was founded in 1988, and quickly grew to be known as Kansas City’s own beer of choice. The brewery has tours, as well as event space. Located nearby is the Boulevard Beer Hall, which is a great place to grab a brew and some pics when you visit.

J. Reiger Co. Distillery

Originally founded in the West Bottoms in the late 1900s, J. Reiger Co was shut down during Prohibition. This whiskey distillery returned in 2014. The current building in the East Bottoms is a fabulous space for events, and has both a club and speakeasy for you to explore.

Other local Breweries:

• Tom’s Town
• The Roasterie (Coffee)

History & Museums (14)

National WWI Museum

The National WWI Museum is located at the base of the Liberty Memorial, and is one of the best museums I’ve ever visited. The only National Museum commemorating World War I, it is not just a display of weapons, but a moving story of how the war affected lives and even the course of world history.

John Wornall House

John Wornall helped found Kansas City way back in the mid-1900s. This house was built in 1858, and served as a hospital for both Union and Confederate troops during the Civil War’s Battle of Westport. It is now a museum that offers not just a tour, but also education on life in that time period. I once saw a presentation on Civil War medicine here.

American Jazz Museum & Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Located at the historic intersection of 18th and Vine, these museums are a must-see for Kansas City visitors.

Federal Reserve Money Museum

The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve building offers unguided tours using its own app, and great views of the building’s exterior. This a great place for a family trip!

Kansas City Museum

As its name implies, the Kansas City Museum tells the story of Kansas City itself. The exhibits feature the lives of famous Kansas Citians and artifacts from our city’s past. Although The Corinthian Hall (the main building) is available for professional photography, it must be reserved in advance. Personal photographs are always allowed.

Arabia Steamboat Museum

The Arabia was a steamboat that sunk in the Missouri River, and was later discovered in a farmer’s field after the river changed course. Since it was packed in mud, its cargo was remarkably preserved, and is now on display in a privately-owned museum in the City Market.

Watkins Mill

Looking for something more rural? Watkins Mill State Park is not just a nature area: it also contains a woolen mill where wool was processed into yarn and then cloth. It is about 45 minutes from downtown Kansas City.

Other historic locations:

• The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
• Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
• Lewis & Clark: Corps of Discovery Statue & Overlook
• Forest Hill & Calvary Cemetery
• Shoal Creek Living History Museum
• Missouri Town 1855

Fun for Kids (8)

Here are the best places in Kansas City for pictures of your children and grandchildren.

Hallmark’s Crown Center is a great area for families with a lot to do any time of year. There are several specific attractions where you can capture great pics of your children.

Crown Center Fountains

Crown Center’s fountains are a popular spot, especially during the summer, as kids can play while parents watch. This is located centrally between Legoland and the Crown Center shopping area.

Kaleidoscope at Crown Center

Kaleidoscope exists to help kids explore art and creativity. I have photos of my own children here from years ago.

Legoland at Crown Center

Of course, Legoland is very popular here in Kansas City. There are lots of fun displays and opportunities for your children to play with Legos.

Sea Life at Crown Center

Sea Life is a massive aquarium located at Crown Center, featuring a massive number of tanks holding fish and other sea life. This is a great place for both learning and fun!

Science City at Union Station

Kansas City’s Union Station holds a huge learning experience for children (and adults!). There are fun exhibits and activities relating to science, physics, and creativity. There is also a Planetarium and always new traveling exhibits.

Kansas City Zoo

The Kansas City Zoo, located in Swope Park, first opened in 1909 with just four exhibits, and has since grown to rank among the best zoos in the United States.

Regnier Family Wonderscope

Wonderscope is Kansas City’s children’s museum, focused on providing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) experiences to kids and their families.

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

Deanna Rose (as it is known locally) is found in Overland Park, KS. Originally known as just “the Farmstead” when it began in 1971, it was later renamed in honor of a fallen Police Officer.

This beloved local attraction boasts 250 animals, large flower gardens, a real one-room schoolhouse, and a recreated Kanza Indian encampment. This is a fabulous place to visit any time of year.

Family Photos/Senior Photos (10)

Here are the best places in Kansas City for pictures — whether family photos or senior photos.

• Crossroads Art District
• Overland Park (KS) Arboretum
• Downtown Lawrence (KS)
• Downtown Parkville
• Briarcliff Waterfall (Riverside, MO)
• Crown Center Ice Terrace
• Downtown Independence
• Burr Oak Woods
• Downtown Overland Park
• The Alexander Majors House

Wedding/Engagement Photos (9)

The best places in Kansas City for pictures for Wedding pictures and Engagement pictures:

• The Elms Hotel (Excelsior Springs)
• Kessler Park Colonnade
• Loose Park
• Rosedale Park
• Kauffman Memorial Garden
• Waiting Room at Union Station
• Prairiefire Museum (Overland Park, KS)
• English Landing Park (Parkville, MO)
• Parkville Nature Sanctuary
• Unity Village