Top Kearney Highlights & Amenities

Kearney, MO, hosts a mix of history, entertainment, and outdoor recreation, creating a vibrant atmosphere packed with unique attractions and amenities. History buffs will love the Jesse James Birthplace Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of the infamous outlaw, while the Kearney Historic Museum showcases the town's heritage. The Kearney Amphitheater is a hotspot for live music and community events, bringing entertainment to the heart of town.

For outdoor lovers, the Fishing River Trail provides scenic paths for walking and biking, and Jesse James Park features sports fields, a disc golf course, and picnic areas. Residents can enjoy year-round fun at The Fun Farm, a local favorite with seasonal events like pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Whether exploring local museums, attending a concert, or enjoying nature, Kearney is a wonderful city to both live and visit.

A Quick Snapshot of Kearney

A growing small town just north of Kansas City, Kearney, MO, is known for its award-winning schools, warm community atmosphere, and affordable cost of living. 

A Stroll Through History
Best known as the birthplace of the infamous outlaw Jesse James, Kearney embraces its Wild West roots with historical sites and an annual festival in his honor. The Jesse James Birthplace Museum and Kearney Historic Museum offer fascinating glimpses into the town's past.

Getting Around
Located right off I-35, Kearney provides easy access to downtown Kansas City in just 25 minutes, making it an excellent option for commuters. Within town, most residents rely on personal vehicles, though walkability is improving with new trails and sidewalks.

Living Here
Kearney offers spacious homes, quiet neighborhoods, an award-winning school district, and the title of one of the most affordable places in the region for utilities. This charming town is consistently ranked as one of the Kansas City metro area's most affordable and welcoming communities.

Things to Do
Outdoor lovers enjoy Jesse James Park, with its hiking trails, disc golf course, and summer events, while live music fans flock to the Kearney Amphitheater. Residents love seasonal fun at The Fun Farm, and history buffs can explore Jesse James' birthplace and local museums.

Fun Fact
Kearney's Jesse James Festival—held every September—draws visitors from all over Missouri as it celebrates the town's outlaw legacy with rodeos, a parade, and a carnival.

Pro Tip
If you're house-hunting in Kearney, act fast—homes here sell quickly due to high demand!

Kearney Schools

The City of Kearney is part of the Kearney School District. Click here to view Enrollment Information.

• Students in kindergarten through Grades 6 attend Dogwood Elementary, Hawthorne Elementary, and Kearney Elementary
• Students in Grades 7 and 8 attend Kearney Middle and Kearney Junior High.
• Students in Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 attend Kearney High.