Where to see country and western music in Kansas City

You may have noticed that our band is into country and western music and if you’re here you probably are too. Kansas City is an interesting music town with a thriving local scene to big touring acts playing in the Sprint Center downtown. It’s known for its history of jazz and blues and for being a cultural crossroads in the mid-twentieth century.

But what if you want to hear some swinging country tunes in Kansas City? Where should you go? We’ve made a list of some of our favorite places to listen to, and play, country and western in Kansas City. Some of the venues below specialize in roots and Americana, some are more eclectic and host a variety of styles. Either way, these venues have a solid reputation for featuring country music acts.

Knuckleheads
Their tagline is "where the greatest musicians play" and they are not just whistlin' dixie. This joint is literally on the other side of the tracks in Kansas City’s east bottoms. You must see a show here, fall in love, and go back every other week (or more). The acts range from local favorites to legends of American roots music. 

The Westport Saloon
Tucked into the heart of the Westport neighborhood, The Westport Saloon consistently delivers opportunities to see country and country adjacent music all night long for a reasonable or no-cover. 

The Ship
The Ship hosts a weekly Honky Tonk Tuesday with great music and great crowds. It’s a local favorite and the musical acts through the week, cross every genre.

Stockyards Brewing Co.
We had to give a shout out to Stockyards for their weekly Sunday Music Service. From 3-6 on Sunday afternoons (no cover) crowds at this west bottoms brewery can enjoy great beer and a show. While not all the acts are country, Americana fans will get their fill with a mix of western, bluegrass, folk, and yes, a little country too.

Where do you go to get your country fix?