Book excerpt: Right in the middle of the country and stretched over two states lies a surprising city with hills, fountains, and more to do and experience than anyone might imagine.The secret is out—Kansas City is not only an affordable, friendly place to live and work, it also has a lot to offer when it comes to culture, history, and outdoor adventure. 100 Things to Do in Kansas City Before You Die celebrates all that makes the area the cool, quirky, iconic Midwestern place that it is while highlighting the hip, international, and cultural oasis it represents to the outlying rural areas. We take you after-hours to the Mutual Musicians Foundation and then share more tunes history with you at the Marr Sound Archive. We invite you to head out of the city to a Wes Anderson-esque stay at the notorious Elms Hotel, among other whimsical stops. In this latest edition you’ll find places that are historically significant as well as green spaces like the Berkley Riverfront and River Heritage Trail that provide solace. Author and local resident Traci Angel brings you even more tips, itineraries, and updated suggestions in this second edition of this well-loved guide. Transplants and tourists to Kansas City can use her advice in these pages to navigate their way, and we guarantee lifelong residents will rediscover their home city.