Unusual Kansas City Facts - Facts about Kansas City, Missouri

Because Kansas City is such a great place to live, it’s no wonder so many people have lived in Kansas City. From interesting facts about Walt Disney to Jesse James, many people and historic events have happened here. Take a few minutes and maybe discover something you didn't know about Kansas City!

• Walt Disney got his start in Kansas City, attending art school in the area. He experimented with animation in an upstairs studio on 31st Street in Kansas City, Missouri, in the ‘20s.
• The Kansas City area was the birthplace of a president, Harry S. Truman, and the home base for outlaws, the Jesse James gang.
• Kansas City’s swing sound jazz actually dates back to the 1930s when legendary Count Basie played in the area’s clubs.
• The area is the third in the nation for professional theaters per capita. More than a dozen companies offer performances
• Kansas City is home to one of the tallest, largest and fastest roller coasters in the world at the city’s World of Fun amusement park.
• Abolitionist John Brown visited the Kansas Territory in 1855. He staged several armed skirmishes and freed some Missouri slaves during his three-year stay.
• Tom Watson, pro golfer, is a native of Overland Park.

Facts About Kansas City

• More than 1.8 million people live in the Greater Kansas City area
• The Greater Kansas City area is made up of 11 counties, covering two states.
• It’s considered the No. 1 inland trade zone in area.
• It’s the second-largest rail center in the U.S.
• Country Club Plaza was the first automobile planned shopping area, opened in 1922. It boasts 12 towers and numerous fountains and artworks that were modeled after those found in the Spanish city of Seville. It’s considered the “crowning achievement” of Kansas City.
• Speaking of fountains, the Greater Kansas City area has more than 200 picturesque fountains, giving rise to its nickname, The City of Fountains.
• The Kansas City area is more than hospitable with a mild climate. Temperatures generally go no higherthan 88 in the summer and 20 in the dead of winter.
• More than 22 colleges and universities call the area home.
• Kansas City is famous for its barbecue. In fact, it’s considered the barbecue capital of the world with dozens of restaurants offering the famous fare.