Ushering in a new era of the arts. | Renderings via Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
It might not be keys to the city, but it’s pretty darn close. KC’s iconic Nelson-Atkins Museum just tapped WEISS/MANFREDI Architecture — out of nearly 200 global proposals — to dream up its next evolution. The winning pitch? “A Connected Tapestry,” weaving together art, nature, and some serious wow-factor for the museum’s ~$170 million, 61,000-sqft addition.
Here are a few defining details from the winning bid:
Skyline scenes: A rooftop terrace garden topped by a solar trellis, serving panoramic views of KC.
Transparent galleries: Floor-to-ceiling windows linking art spaces directly to the Sculpture Park.
Pollinator-friendly paths: A “painterly meadow” filled with native plantings that’s practically begging for photo ops.
Rozzelle Court reboot: Bringing back its original open ceiling-feel with skylights, while dining moves to a new indoor-outdoor Terrace Café.
New perspectives: A fresh second-floor window above those iconic columns, framing the south lawn perfectly.
Curious about what could’ve been? Catch the five other finalists’ visionary designs in the museum’s “Building Belonging” exhibit through May, in-person or online. Stay tuned to your favorite morning newsletter as timelines roll out.
Fiesta for the Future | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | The Sulgrave Regency | $85 | Support KC Can Compost and Green Core Training with an evening of traditional Mariachi music, culinary delights, cocktails, and a silent auction.
Pawsperity Pup Pageant | 6:30 p.m. | Bar K | $15+ | Compete your four-legged friend in categories like Kansas City Spirit, Fantasy Tails, and Pet/Parent Lookalike for a good cause.
First Friday Comedy | 7-9 p.m. | The Bird Comedy Theater | Free | First Friday revelers are invited to shake up their night with a free show featuring some of KC’s best comedy acts + artists.
Saturday, April 26
Party for the Planet | Saturday, April 26-Sunday, April 27 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Kansas City Zoo | $17+ | Make your own native seed bomb, decorate a peat pot, take the trash test, and learn about the City Nature Challenge as well as preserving the Blue River.
2025 Spring Parade of Homes | Saturday, April 26-Sunday, May 11 | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City | Free | Kick off your weekend with this annual celebration highlighting hundreds of newly built homes across the metro.
UFC Fight Night: Hill vs. Rountree | 5 p.m. | T-Mobile Center | $133+ | Get ready to rumble as the world’s best fighters return to KC, with a thrilling card awaiting.
Paul Simon | 7 p.m. | Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland | $250+ | With 12 Grammy Awards and spots in the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame + Songwriters Hall of Fame, the iconic artist is back on the road searching for America.
Sunday, April 27
Passport to India | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art | Free | Experience a vibrant fashion show, art activities, and several dance performances in classical and contemporary styles.
Plant Swap | 2-4 p.m. | Leavenworth Public Library | Free | Meet fellow plant lovers and swap cuttings as KC’s green-thumbed community blooms together.
Good news, travelers: The costs you see when eyeing that gorgeous Airbnb will now include all fees, meaning you won’t be hit with a $300 cleaning fee after going to check out. Explore local Airbnbs with our guide to unique places to stay in Kansas City. (CNN)
Outdoors
96 million. That’s how many Americans are bird watchers, according to a survey from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Check out the NYT’s birdwatching tips before heading out on a local hiking trail known for bird sightings. (New York Times)
Tech
A new study suggests that adults over 50 who use smartphones may experience lower rates of cognitive decline. Yet another reason to subscribe to KCtoday. (The Guardian)
Eat
Strawberry + Cream Pebbles. That’s the new cereal flavor from Post, the brand behind Fruity Pebbles. You can look for it on grocery store shelves, but if you’re in a berry mood, you can see what’s in season at a local farmers market.
We got a little too excited, folks. Yesterday, we gave the wrong date for Boulevardia — it’s actually taking place on Saturday, June 14. We hope to see you there.
City Guide
City Guide
Ah, the good old days
What would make your hair stick up like that? Only one way to know... | Photo via Science City
We’re not kiddin’ around. From major attractions like Worlds of Fun to hidden gems like Yaya’s Alpaca Farm, there’s something in KC for children of all ages.
You’ll have no trouble entertaining the youngsters with this list of 35+ kid-friendly activities around Kansas City.
🎨 All about the arts
Creative Culture KC, two locations
Drink milkshakes and paint pottery with the whole family at this super sweet art studio.
🌳 Great outdoors
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, 6800 Zoo Dr., KCMO
The zoo is full of un-fur-gettable opportunities fit for the whole pack.
Where did your KC lore start? Yep, we’re still asking.
We got a bunch of comments and suggestions on our Instagram post for the trend which looks at nostalgic + humorous local memories, and we’re planning a part two. Send in your suggestions.
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