Taylor Swift Becomes a Temporary Resident of Kansas City
Taylor Swift, the international superstar and most-streamed artist of 2023, has reportedly moved to Kansas City, Missouri, during a break in her Eras Tour. She is staying in the mansion of her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, who is a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. While some may be surprised by this move, Kansas City has a lot to offer and is often underestimated.
Discovering Kansas City
Kansas City is actually spread across two states, Missouri and Kansas. The Missouri side, known as KCMO, is where the Chiefs play and is home to about 510,000 residents. It is also the location of the world’s first stadium built specifically for women’s soccer, which will be completed next year. Kansas City, Kansas (KCK), is smaller with around 150,000 residents and has a diverse population, with nearly a third being Hispanic. It is known as the “true taco capital of the United States.”
Despite being divided by state lines, Kansas City is a vibrant and culturally rich city. It is known as the “City of Fountains,” with over 200 fountains scattered throughout the metro area. The city also has a rich Native American history, with locations reflecting the traditions and influences of various Native American nations.
The Divisions and Tensions
The divisions between Missouri and Kansas run deep, with historical tensions dating back to the Civil War era. Missouri was a slave state, while Kansas fought to maintain its status as a free state. These divisions can still be seen today in the geography and politics of Kansas City. For example, Kansas City, Missouri, does not control its own police department, despite ongoing protests and lawsuits from residents.
Taylor Swift’s Temporary Residence
Taylor Swift is currently living in the suburb of Leawood, Kansas, in Johnson County. This area is growing rapidly and is home to more than half of the metro’s residents. It offers a mild and dry winter season, making it a pleasant place to spend time.
Exploring Kansas City
Kansas City is known for its barbecue, with burnt ends being a local specialty. Popular barbecue spots include Arthur Bryant’s, Gates, Joe’s Kansas City, LC’s Bar-B-Q, and Slap’s. The city also offers a diverse culinary scene, with notable restaurants like Town Topic, Baba’s Pantry, and Wild Child.
For entertainment, Kansas City has a thriving drag scene, celebrated jazz clubs, and a variety of cultural institutions such as the American Jazz Museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the National WWI Museum.
A Warm Welcome to Taylor Swift
While Taylor Swift may only be in Kansas City temporarily, there is no shortage of things for her to explore and enjoy. From its vibrant culture to its delicious cuisine, Kansas City has a lot to offer. Welcome to Kansas City, Taylor. It’s been waiting for you.
