The Kansas City area, with a population of over 1.5 million people, encompasses eight counties in two states on both sides of the Missouri River. It boasts more fountains than any city except Rome and more boulevards than any city other than Paris. The cost of housing is much lower in Kansas City than most other metropolitan areas and the Kansas public education system ( Johnson County) is among the best in the country.

Economically, Kansas City is a major center for agriculture and business with industries as diverse as greeting cards, mutual funds, telecommunications and auto assembly. The Midwest's agricultural production is largely processed and marketed in Kansas City with shipping by rail and barge. The city has also established itself as an international trading zone. Both private and public interests have recognized the importance of Kansas City's vibrant downtown.

The Country Club Plaza, established nearly eighty years ago, covers 55 acres and houses 187 specialty shops and service establishments, over 30 restaurants, four financial institutions and state of the art movie theaters. It is well known for its Spanish architectural style, statues and fountains and is often called an outdoor museum. A Kansas City tradition since 1925 is the Plaza Christmas lighting. From Thanksgiving until New Years Day, Plaza businesses light up with over 156,000 bulbs. This is considered to be the most spectacular lighting display in the United States.

The Truman Sports Complex houses both the Kansas City Royals Baseball team and the Kansas City Chiefs Football team in their respective stadiums. Kansas City is also home to the Kansas City Wizards and Comets soccer teams. As a new venue for sports and entertainment, work has begun on the Sprint Center as part of a major downtown revitalization project considered by some to be a true ‘renaissance’.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, established in 1933, has achieved international attention for its Oriental collection. The Lyric Opera, State Ballet of Missouri and The Midland Center of Performing Arts provide varying types of entertainment. Individuals can also enjoy themselves at theme parks such as Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun, and the Kansas City Zoo.

These factors and many others help make Kansas City a very livable city. We at the University Of Kansas Department Of OTOHNS are sure that you will share our enthusiasm when visiting and enjoying our city. For more information about Kansas City, please visit www.visitkc.com.

group photo of students at paintball outing
group photo of faculty at paintball outing
Departmental Paintball Outing in the “Caves of Missouri”

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