"Home of Jazz in Middle America" a Kansas City Travel Page by AlbuqRay

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Vine Street Museums

Historic 18th & Vine District

The historic 18th & Vine district in downtown Kansas City was one of the premier centers of jazz in the 1920's and 1930's. The area was the location of the Kansas City African-American community in the days of segregation. It was bordered by 12th Street on the north, 27th Street on the south, Benton Street on the east and Charlotte Street on the west. There were and are large, nice homes on the south end. The area around 18th and Vine was the business district. The 12th Street area had become a red light district and was razed during urban renewal in the 1950's and 1960's.

Since 1997, 18th and Vine has been the home of the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (see also my museums travelogue). The Gem Theater Cultural and Performing Arts Center is also located there. This area is a high class, must-see area to appreciate African-American history in the Midwest.

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Xmas on the Plaza

Country Club Plaza

I believe that the Country Club Plaza is considered the oldest suburban shopping center in the USA. At Christmas time it is covered with lights and is a "must-see." This shot was taken from the historic Raphael Hotel. Most cows in Kansas City are not blue. However, you can see similar sculptures in other parts of the city too.