The Kansas City area is still enjoying the spotlight cast its way when the Kansas City Royals took on the San Francisco Giants for an exciting 2014 World Series.
“In addition to the unparalleled media exposure, the Royals’ incredible postseason brought renewed interest in Kansas City as a meetings destination,” says Derek Klaus, spokesman for Visit KC. “More meeting professionals than ever before are now aware of our Midwestern hospitality, downtown renaissance and, of course, our dynamic sports scene."
Like Kansas City’s beloved “Boys in Blue,” groups meeting in the area—including Overland Park and Kansas City, Kan.—can also enjoy a bit of sports fun and competition.
From visiting a local stadium for a scavenger hunt to participating in a “field day” event, following are some great representations of how groups can get in the game.
Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Mo.
It’s likely the home of the Royals will be popular with visiting groups for some time to come, as the glow of the World Series will never really lose its luster.
“Kauffman Stadium is a destination well-versed in accommodating groups,” Klaus says.
In addition to discounted tickets and food, he adds that groups can book a stadium tour as well as on-field activities.
The College Basketball Experience, Kansas City, Mo.
Located at the Sprint Center, the College Basketball Experience, according to Klaus, is unlike any other sports museum.
“Instead of just reading about heroes and legends, you actually get in the game and sweat alongside them,” he says. “Groups love this venue, both for its hands-on teambuilding exhibits and innovative spaces, such as Center Court.”
Interactive activities include Beat the Clock, which challenges players to make a basket in a pressure-cooker situation, and Step Up to the Line, a free-throw game.
CommunityAmerica Ballpark, Kansas City, Kan.
The Kansas City T-Bones, a member of the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball, play in CommunityAmerica ballpark, a great atmosphere for group outings, according to Kerry Green, meeting, group and event manager for the Kansas City Kansas CVB.
“You can treat groups of 15 or more to some of the most unique and exciting event opportunities anywhere in the Kansas City metro area,” she says, citing company picnics as a popular option.
Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Overland Park, Kan.
“The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens offers the perfect setting for a teambuilding scavenger hunt,” says Liron BenDor, spokeswoman for the Overland Park CVB.
Between its multiple trails, gardens and outdoor art installations, she adds, participants will enjoy the beautiful setting and the unique way they can work together as a team.
The attraction also boasts several areas for group gatherings.
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Legends Outlets, Kansas City, Kan.
The Legends Outlets Kansas City features the wonderful Legendary Scavenger Hunt, according to Green.
“The hunt focuses attention on many of the legendary Kansans depicted in the mall through medallions, statues, plaques and signs,” Green says.
Among the many “finds” participants will discover throughout the Legends Outlets are Amelia Earhart and Buster Keaton.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Kansas City, Mo.
“A frequent stop for visiting celebrities and dignitaries, this museum profiles a period of American history that most people aren’t aware of,” Klaus says. “Before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, African Americans played in the Negro Leagues, which lasted until the 1950s.”
During a tour here, attendees will learn via multimedia displays, artifacts dating to the late-1800s and hundreds of photos.
“Reflecting on history, groups learn about embracing individual differences and how to perform as a well-unified team,” Klaus adds.
Overland Park Soccer Complex; Blue Valley Recreation Complex, Overland Park, Kan.
If planners are looking to add a “throwback” element to the event, BenDor suggests a “field day” outing at one of two venues, Overland Park Soccer Complex or Blue Valley Recreation Complex.
This type of event will allow participants to “let loose in a very memorable way,” she says, adding that games can include kickball, flag football and soccer. “You can follow with nostalgic snacks and a casual barbecue for lunch, and participants will thank you for the workout, the camaraderie and the good old-fashioned fun.”
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Mo.
Home of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, Arrowhead Stadium has more than 20 spaces for group events accommodating 10 to 1,000 people.
“The spaces also offer awesome 360-degree views of the playing field and skyline,” Klaus says. “The stadium will host scavenger hunts and other turn-key teambuilding functions for groups.”
TopGolf, Overland Park, Kan.
TopGolf is a premier golf entertainment complex with locations throughout the country, and one of its newest operations is opening in Overland Park in spring 2015.
According to BenDor, TopGolf is well-suited for both skilled and non-experienced golfers.
The game involves a 240-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground. The closer to the center or “bull’s-eye” players get and the farther out they hit their microchipped balls, BenDor explains, the more points they receive.
TopGolf’s various built-in competitive games include TopScramble and TopShot.
