See How We Live + Work + Play + Learn
The Missouri River has filled many roles in the Greater Kansas City area from adversary to ally, challenger to constant companion. The river brought the first settlers to the region, the Hopewell and Kaw Indians and other Native Americans and later the French fur traders and European explorers. From the river’s edge, historic trading and traveling trails stretched into the West. After Kansas City incorporated in 1850, the community began heading south onto higher ground, and over time created a wonderful city perched high on the golden limestone bluffs.
Today the Riverfront stands at the Heart of America, at the very center of commerce and at the core of Kansas City’s plans to create something extraordinary in urban life along the river corridor. Visionaries believe the Mighty MO not only holds an honored place in our cities history but also our key to the future. These are the people who understand the power and vitality that a river can bring to the city. They know what Kansas Cities Riverfront can become if it succeeds in turning the vision into reality.
Our Mission:
The mission of Friends of the River Kansas City (FOR_KC) is to celebrate the heritage and promote the development of the Kansas City Riverfront through education, community outreach, volunteer commitment, and fundraising opportunities.
Our Vision:
All of Kansas Cities Riverfront areas will be an inspiration and destination for the region's residents and visitors, and the model for cities via public, government, and private partnerships across the Nation.
Dive Deeper
Visionaries believe the Mighty MO not only holds an honored place in our cities history but also our key to the future. These are the people who understand the power and vitality that a river can bring to the city. They know what Kansas Cities Riverfront can become if it succeeds in turning the vision into reality.
History + Significance +Dream
Let’s take a deeper look into the history of the Kansas City MO riverfront…
The GREEN Stuff
River Cleanups
We work hard to keep the banks of the Big Muddy and surrounding areas clean and beautiful so we can enjoy it for years to come. We aren't afraid to get dirty - in fact, we think we'd be missing out on the best part if we didn't! If you're interested in helping protect and maintain this vital resource, head over to our volunteer form.
Tree Plantings
When you love something, you're willing to work to preserve it. If you've ever been curious about how you can contribute to the MO river while meeting cool people and having some fun in the process, check out one of our river clean up days. Trust us, we know how to make just about anything fun. Meet you on the banks?
Grow it
Friends of the River KC is a 501 c3 nonprofit organization designed to reframe, connect, and engage all people across our KC metro with the Missouri River that flows through the center of our city. We are driven and motivated by this beautiful natural resource which has forever been the heart of Kansas City.
The WILD Stuff
Epic Parties
KC RiverFest is the premier Independence Day celebration in our nation. Located at Richard L. Berkley Riverfront, KC RiverFest has become a “Kansas City tradition,” known as the best way to celebrate the Fourth of July in the midewest. Join with friends, family, and community leaders for a full day of entertainment including live music, kids activities, street performers, food and drink, and of course FIREWORKS!
Family Fun
Play at the Park is a variety of family-friendly events at Berkley Riverfront. From racing inflatable swans down the Mighty MO to pop-up disc golf courses, no event is too weird.
Check back often to see what exciting happenings are coming up and if you have ideas of your own, please share them!
Health & Fitness
Riverfront Fitness KC is weekly courses for people of all levels taught by KC’s top trainers and fitness instructors. Friends of the River hosts these all spring and summer long as the sun sets over the Missouri River at Berkley Riverfront.
Join us May through September at 6:30 pm for a rotating schedule of classes, courses, and fit fam fun at the Pavillion in the middle of the park.