Start your introduction to the area from the James Brothers House and Farm. It is a historic farmstead that is also known as The Birthplace of Jesse James.
Jesse Woodson James was an American outlaw, bank and train robber, and guerrilla from the mid-19th century. He was the most famous member and the leader of the James-Younger Gang. He was compared to Robin Hood at his time. However, this portrayal is heavily romanticized, as there is no proof of him ever sharing his loot with the poor population.
The farmhouse was built around 1822 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Today it serves as a house museum telling about the story of the James Brothers. There's also an annual festival held in Kearney dedicated to the life of the criminal as well as a park named after him.
To experience a more up-to-date type of farm, visit Barham Family Farm. The farm Has been the family's asset for over a hundred years now. Today three generations work shoulder-to-shoulder to provide the best beef, chicken, pork, and a variety of vegetables to the tables of local families. The farm works closely with one of the restaurants in Kansas City called Fox and Pearl. Chef Vaughn Good relies on the Barham's for the best quality produce and meats for his high-profile recipes. Their tight-knit cooperation produces delicious dishes that you can try at Fox and Pearl, just 25 minutes away from Kearney.
The Hall of Waters is another popular tourist attraction just fifteen minutes from Kearney, in Excelsior Springs. It is a gorgeous historical building in art deco style that was initially constructed as a mineral water health resort with interior mineral baths. In addition, the building housed a water bottling plant, using the water from the springs. The first discoveries of the springs happened around the 1880s, and the site became very popular with visitors in the 19th, the beginning of the 20th century. However, in the 1950s, its popularity rapidly dimmed as people traveled to other places for health and recreation around the country. Today, it is a historical landmark of the structure's former glory, housing city offices inside. The Hall of Water was inducted into the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 and today is considered one of the most endangered historical places in the United States.
While you're in Excelsior Springs, stop by Four Horses and a Dog Winery. It is a cozy double-family run winery and vineyard, as it is run by two couples that share a big love of wine. They planted their first grapes in 2008 and made their first wine in 2012. Today their primary focus is on semi-dry and dry wines. Several of their wines received awards for taste and quality, for example, Vignole - a silver medalist at the Finder Lake Wine Competition.
Best Time to Visit Kearney, MO
Kearney has four distinct seasons. The summers are usually hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the 90s. The winters can be quite cold, with average high temperatures of 40 and low temperatures of 22. Snowfall season usually lasts for about 4 months, from November till March.
It is highly recommended to make your way to Kearney around fall and not only for a pretty picture but also to visit the Fun Farm.
The farm hosts a variety of events. For example, Blooms and Butterflies starts in late August. It provides over 30 diverse farm attractions and entertainment options, from giant slides to cow train rides, barnyard games, and apple cannons. It also features a country store with various local handcrafted goods and an array of food vendors with delicious farm-to-table treats.
Another fall event that you just can't miss is the Fall Festival itself. There you'll be able to enjoy all the traditional fun activities like the pumpkin patch, family apple picking, corn maze, and live music events. All the fun starts in mid-September.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Kearney, MO:
Kearney, MO: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. rate trends by star rating class in Kearney, MO. Browse these line graphs to evaluate the most cost effective seasons to stay in Kearney for upcoming travels.
Premium Hotel Options in Kearney, MO
4 Star Average Prices: $136.00
There are several higher-end hotels to choose from in the area, and they all offer wonderful amenities and top-quality services. You'll be able to find an ideal place to stay while on a business trip and a fancy cave for a relaxing getaway. One of the local hotels is sure to fit your needs. These hotels feature pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and even business centers and meeting rooms. Some of them are also conveniently located near several restaurants, shops, and attractions around the city so that you're always in the center of the action.
Cheap Hotels in Kearney, MO
3 Star Average Prices: $110.95
If you're on a tight budget while visiting Kearney, but want to experience the most of this city, look through our selection of affordable lodgings around the area. There are a number of great low-budget hotel options in the area, providing the basic comfort you need for a pleasant stay and reasonable prices. Whether you're seeking a place to crash for the night after an intense day of crossing things off your bucket list or you are planning for a more extended stay, there are plenty of hostels, motels, and B&B options to accommodate your needs.