Jenny Wilson, Kansas City Vice President of Tourism: “It’s exciting to see our city recognized as a global soccer destination”

Missouri's most populous city, once home to gangsters and jazz, and now a world leader in barbecue and sports, has been gaining ground in international tourism.

“We want Brazilians to discover a city that surprises at every corner,” Wilson emphasized.

Kansas City on the map of the United States

Strategically located in the center of the country, Kansas City connects eight states and serves as a transit point for historical and commercial routes. According to Wilson, this central location guarantees easy access to other American regions and strengthens local tourism.

The barbecue capital of the world

One of the city's highlights is barbecue, or rather, barbecue. "We have over 100 restaurants dedicated to this dish. Each sauce, each side dish, has its own identity," explained Wilson. Kansas City recently opened the world's first barbecue museum, reinforcing the culinary tradition that attracts visitors from around the world.

Jazz and culture that never stops

Jazz is also an inseparable part of the city's soul. Inheriting traditions from New Orleans, Kansas City boasts intimate clubs, museums, and a vibrant music scene. "You can walk into a small bar and have direct contact with top-notch artists," said Wilson.

Sport, passion and globality

Besides music and cuisine, sports are another draw. Kansas City is home to the NFL's Chiefs, known for having the loudest stadium in the US, and will also host the 2026 World Cup. "It's exciting to see our city recognized as a global soccer destination," Wilson emphasized.

Kansas City is preparing to be one of the major venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, hosting six matches at Arrowhead Stadium, including group stage matches, round of 16, and quarterfinals. The city is investing approximately US$50 million in stadium improvements and transportation infrastructure, in addition to mobilizing 6,000 volunteers to serve fans from around the world. With 55,000 hotel rooms available within a 2.5-hour radius and community events already energizing the population, Kansas City projects an estimated economic impact of US$650 million, solidifying its position as one of the tournament's most vibrant and strategic venues.

Women's football and Brazil on the field

Kansas City also boasts the world's first stadium dedicated exclusively to a women's team, KC Current, which features three Brazilian players. "We even broadcast the games in Portuguese; it's a cultural bridge that brings us even closer to Brazil," Wilson noted.

History, tradition and surprises

From the legacy of Walt Disney, who spent part of his youth in Missouri, to curiosities like the creation of McDonald's, Kansas City is full of stories few know. For Wilson, the biggest challenge is telling these stories to the world: "When people visit, they always say they had no idea how amazing the city was."

Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.