Winter is the most magical time of year in Kansas City. From the Plaza lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving to ice skating at Crown Center, there are endless opportunities to capture the perfect photo, whether it be an impromptu selfie or with a professional photographer for your wedding, engagement, or family photos. Here are the top eight KC winter photo spots to get the picture-perfect Kansas City inspired photo.
1. Union Station
Nestled between towering skyscrapers of downtown and the timeless architecture of the Plaza, you’ll find Union Station. Union Station opened in 1914, after three years of construction, with gorgeous marble floors and high ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers, Union Station is a great location for those with a love of Art Deco and history. Although, there is a fee of either $25 or $75 (depending on the size of your group) which will need to be paid in advance. You can find more information at unionstation.org. But if you want to capture the photo on your own, the building is open and free to visitors.
2. Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
Nothing is more iconic to Kansas City than the shuttlecocks on the lawn of the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art. If it’s iconic enough for countless T-shirt designs, we think it should make the list of KC winter photo spots. Although you can’t take photos inside the museum, the grounds surrounding it are picture perfect. Walk the path on the front lawn for some hidden sculptures and the glass maze, all of which set the scene for some great photos (even better if you happen to be there after a snowfall).
3. Mayor’s Christmas Tree & Crown Center
Located at the Crown Center Square, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree offers an amazing festive feel. Adorned with lights and ornaments, it’s a Christmas lover’s dream when it comes to photography. You can even take a few photos (and possibly some spills) on the ice rink nearby. Be sure to go in the evening to see the tree and decorations all lit up. An easy addition to the list of KC winter photo spots, considering few things are more Kansas City than the Mayor’s own tree!
4. Christmas Tree Farms
Christmas tree farms make a great stop for engagement, wedding day and family photos. Evergreen trees provide the perfect backdrop to any photo, especially when covered by a dusting of snow. On the Missouri side of the state line, check out Fort Osage Christmas Tree Farm. If you’re on the Kansas side, Strawberry Hill Christmas Tree Farm is the place to check out. Both tree farms require a call ahead appointment and a fee for professional photography.
5. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center
Want to get back to nature? Burr Oak is the place to be. Located in Blue Springs, the nature preserve is a great spot to take photos. Follow along the trails to find to find scenic spots. Between the limestone outcroppings and the Burr Oak Creek, there are plenty of spots to cozy up with a blanket for some timeless winter photos.
6. Crossroads Art District
If the wooded areas are not your speed, check out the Crossroads Art District in the heart of Kansas City. With the urban feel of brick buildings and beautiful architecture, there is not a boring corner to be found. Just blocks South of downtown, there are galleries, restaurants, and storefronts with every turn, which makes this location great for photos at every time of the year, not just winter. The Crossroads District will not disappoint for the lover of urban city vibes. This addition to the list of KC winter photo spots will give away your location with every photo for Kansas City true bloods.
7. Country Club Plaza
Just a block from the Nelson Atkins, you’ll find the Country Club Plaza. Famous for high-end shopping and dining, the Plaza is home to beautiful architecture and fountains that rival those in Rome. While journeying the Plaza, you’ll find plenty of mosaics and doorways perfect for capturing those intimate moments. The evening would be a great time to capture photos, especially since all the Christmas lights will be twinkling.
8. Kauffman Center for the Preforming Arts
If you are going for a modern vibe, the Kauffman Center is the place to be. Just blocks away from Union Station, you’ll find the Kauffman Center for the Preforming Arts. On the inside, a glass atrium lobby looks down on the sprawling lawn. You must submit a request and pay a fee to take professional photos at the Kauffman Center (more information available on their website at kauffmancenter.org).
So, there it is, our top eight locations for KC winter photo spots. The city is full of hidden gem locations for photos. But these spots will not disappoint. Before scheduling your trip to these locations for professional photos, be sure to visit their websites for hours of operations and check for any possible fees. Kansas City may be magical during the winter, but your photos are sure to be even more so.
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