American Jazz Museum

Learn about different jazz styles, rhythms, instruments and musicians – including Kansas City native Charlie Parker – at this interactive museum, at the heart of the city's 1920s African American neighborhood. It's part of the Museums at 18th & Vine complex. The Blue Room, the museum's jazz club, hosts local talent for free performances on Monday and Thursday. Touring acts perform weekends. Major shows are held at the adjoining Gem Theater.