Overview
Kearney is in Clay County, in the Kansas City Area of Missouri. It is the birthplace of the infamous Jesse James.
1 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: Apr–May, Sep–Oct. Summer highs reach about 90°F; winter lows dip to about 22°F. Very hot (Jul) — plan outdoor time for mornings. Cold months (Jan) can bring snow and ice; check road conditions. Wettest: Jun and May. (climate data from nearby Kansas City)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- MCI Kansas City International Airport, Kansas City — 19 mi away (major hub). Directions
- IRK Kirksville Regional Airport, Kirksville — 109 mi away. Directions
Budget & where to stay
No prices are listed for this place yet. See the Sleep guide ↓ for options.
Food for you
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
See
Every year, Kearney holds the Jesse James Festival, honoring the man that made their town what it is today.
- James Farm County Park, 21216 Jesse James Farm Rd. Notably Jesse James' birthplace and grave site, along with a museum. Adults: $9, ages 8-15: $5.50 (Jan 2024)
Sleep
Nearby
Independence
City / town · 45 listings · 19 mi away
Kansas City
City / town · 145 listings · 22 mi away
Kansas City
City / town · 23 listings · 23 mi away
Cameron
City / town · 4 listings · 27 mi away
Lexington
City / town · 2 listings · 29 mi away
Weston
City / town · 4 listings · 29 mi away
Leavenworth
City / town · 4 listings · 30 mi away
Lee's Summit
City / town · 120 listings · 31 mi away
My experience
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