"The Nelson," as its colloquially called, is often the first place Kansas Citians recommend to out-of-town visitors, and for good reason. The museum has a large collection of classic and modern artwork as well as special exhibits, performances, film screenings, and more, which are well worth your time (and multiple visits). However, simply hiking around the picturesque, sculpture-studded grounds, tossing a frisbee, or relaxing on a picnic blanket is deeply enjoyable. It's also (basically) where Rachel and Matt met (in person) for the first time, where he proposed to her, and where they got their engagement photos taken. So suffice it to say, we're partial to it. :-)

Immediately northwest of The Nelson, in the adjacent Kansas City Art Institute, is the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. This smaller museum can be enjoyed in an hour or two, and is filled with the ingenious works of contemporary artists from all over. It even has a cafe (with excellent food) in which you can dine surrounded by art and light. It's definitely worth a visit!

Want to experience the city at a more intimate level while getting some fresh air and exercise? Rent a bike (very inexpensively) through RideKC! The RidKC app makes locating and renting a bike easy, and their website lists rack locations around the city. The Gillham Cycle Track, which runs along Gillham Rd. (which eventually turns into Oak St) from 46th and Harrison up to E. Truman Rd. on the southern edge of Downtown KC. Cliff Drive in the Old Northeast is a scenic, car-free road that runs from Columbus Park through Kessler Park and back.

Liberty Memorial and the National WWI Museum offers not only history, but an exceptional view of downtown Kansas City that's definitely photo worthy. You can also ride to the top of the tower for an even more comprehensive view of the city in all directions.

The historic J. Rieger distillery is pretty magnificent besides producing some outstanding bourbon, rye, and our very own "Kansas City" style whiskey. Besides tours (do one!), you can dine (appetizers) and drink in the rustic-but-elegant Monogram Lounge, the more upscale Hey Hey Club, or the relaxed Electric Park Garden Bar out back. The large foyer opens into a small history museum about the Rieger distilling history, and includes a curly slide to take you gracefully back downstairs from the Monogram. Matt recommends their Bottled-in-Bond bourbon and rye, Private Stock, and Monogram whiskeys.

Visit the "Beer Hall" at Boulevard Brewery—you won't regret it! There you can sample dozens of Boulevard beers, including numerous brewery-exclusive special releases, from barrel-aged stouts and ales to light and fruity Quirk seltzers. Bring home a souvenir and as many packs of canned and bottled beer as you can fit in your car. :-)

Our favorite burgers in Kansas City and one of our favorite spots to grab a drink and relax.

Our wedding venue, The Austin, sits in the middle of a part of the Crossroads District informally known as Brewer's Alley. It has several micro breweries in a small, walkable area. We especially like Torn Label, City Barrel, and Casual Animal. Also in the area are a couple of great micro distilleries: Lifted Spirits (next door to The Austin) and Mean Mule (agave spirits).

Our hyper local, long-time coffee shop is our favorite. Personalized service, outstanding drinks, chill vibes, and a wide variety of high-quality beans to-go. If you want a glitzier experience, visit The Roastery, near the Boulevard Brewery.

Seriously, unless you're vegetarian or vegan, don't come to Kansas City and not get some of the World's Greatest BBQ. All the local places are fantastic, but our favorites are Q39, Slaps, Joe's, Wolfpack, and Char Bar. If you prefer a more upscale venue and more savory sauce, check out Jack Stack. If you want to get gritty, Arthur Bryant's or LC's is where it's at.

Best crepes in KC, maybe the Midwest, and one of Rachel's absolute favorite restaurants. Get there before 9:00, because the line starts growing fast on weekends.