A Guide to Kansas City

So you’re coming to Kansas City? You’re not? Well, you will be after this!

As a Kansas City native, I suggest attending a Chiefs game at Arrowhead Stadium, a Royals game at Kauffman Stadium, or, you know, a Sporting KC game at Children’s Mercy Park. You get it; there are a lot of sports going on.

Kansas City is known for the barbecue, so here are a few places you should definitely stop by if it is on your bucket list:

•Joe’s

•Gate’s

•Rosedale

•Arthur Bryant’s

As I got older, I started to discover what Kansas City really has to offer, besides our loyal sports fans and, of course, the barbecue. I hope you enjoy seeing Kansas City through my eyes as I show you some of my favorite places that I like to visit when I’m back at home.

Midtown

My favorite area in Midtown is 39th Street. There are so many delicious restaurants and boutiques along this street, it’s almost impossible not to find something for everyone. My first stop would have to be Meshuggah Bagels, where you can get an NYC-style bagel. With four locations to choose from, you can enjoy them just about wherever.

How about a tasty brunch spot? I got you covered! Room 39 is what you want and need. Although I have only been here once, it left a lasting impression on me. I always get nervous trying to find a new restaurant that everyone will like, but this place made it easy. Do me a favor and just go!

Still hungry? Tiki Taco will soon be calling your name! A great place to grab a drink or a quick bite, Tiki Taco caters to friends just looking to have a good time. If you miss them on 39th, have no fear; there are two other locations, so take your pick!

When you’re done eating your weight in deliciousness, you should definitely check out Prospero’s Books. With three levels to this bookstore, you may very easily find yourself getting lost in a good book or reading all of the writing on the shelves. Like you and your lover’s lock on a bridge, your mark on the Prospero’s shelves will stay forever– That is, until they are replaced.

Westport

There is so much to do in Westport. So many bars, so little time! I’d recommend grabbing a drink at Beer Kitchen (where you can also build your own mac & cheese!) or Char Bar, where they have outdoor games. You really can’t go wrong with any bar you stumble into. Let me just say this area be lit AF (do people still say this?) on St. Patty’s Day.

In dire need of a cup of Joe? Visit Broadway Cafe for all your coffee (and vegan pumpkin bread) needs.

Stock up on that KC merch while you’re at it! The Bunker has all the gear you will ever need (but so does Charlie Hustle on the Plaza and Westside Storey on W 17th St & Summit)! You’re going to ask yourself, “Do I have enough KC tanks?” The answer is NEVER.

If you’re looking to get a little fancy, might I suggest Westport Cafe? With French cuisine and tasty cocktails, you’re sure to find your new favorite eatery in Westport (especially after a wild night at Throwback KC). If you're looking for a little more excitement, check out Missie B’s on the corner of 39th and SW Trafficway, because who doesn't love a drag show?

Is live music or stand-up comedy more your style? Attend a show at the Uptown Theater! The possibilities are truly endless.

Crossroads

Bring the party down to the Crossroads district. You got your barcades. You got your speakeasy(ies?). You got your "noodz." Most importantly, you got your wineries. Obviously, feel free to do these in any order, but please be responsible.

Lulu's Thai Noodle Shop is the best spot for Thai food. Hands down. Luckily, they have two locations: one in the Crossroads, the other in Westwood. KC Wineworks is next on my list. While you should definitely try some of the breweries here in town, like Boulevard Brewing Company, the KC wineries are where it’s at.

As far as late-night entertainment goes, Green Lady Lounge is arguably the best jazz club in Kansas City. I wish I would’ve spent more time here honestly; it’s that fun. What can be better than sipping on a cocktail while listening to some jazz? Nothing probably.

My personal favorite hangout spot has to be Up/Down. We love a barcade, don't we? I’ve always had nothing but good times here, and every time I return home, I hope to make it out for a game of Gauntlet and Dr. Mario. They also offer a few outdoor games as well, so there’s something for everyone. You go, Up/Down.

Downtown

Going into Downtown KC, I'd be cheating myself if I didn’t stop at Messenger Coffee on Grand Boulevard. The architecture and roof deck are incredible. It's just a bonus that their coffee and baked goods happen to be some of Kansas City's best.

What's the best way to get around the city, you ask? The KC Streetcar is your answer, and it's free to ride!

You should definitely hit up the Power & Light District when you're in town. There are tons of bars within walking distance. If you aren’t looking to go too far, you can just hang out at the KC Live! Block. There you can see some live music and can bar-hop easily! Luckily, it’s directly across from the T-Mobile Center so it is a great place to waste time before a show. The Midland is also another venue that is sure to bring the good times.

On our way out of downtown, a great place for a photo op is the Scout statue in Penn Valley Park. You may have seen this picture when doing your research. It’s an amazing view of the downtown area without being dead center of all the chaos.

Another fun photo opportunity for the bookworms out there is just outside of the central branch of the Kansas City Public Library! The only thing better than books is GIANT BOOKS!

Westside

Bringing it on over to the Westside! This area is honestly one of my favorites because of how quaint it is. W 17th Street and Summit is the cutest corner in KC! A vegan restaurant originally brought me over here, but when it closed, I stayed for Blue Bird Bistro and Goat Hill Coffee & Soda. I hear that The Westside Local is also a great brunch option.

West Bottoms

Ah, the West Bottoms, where thrifters and hipsters unite. At "First Weekends," you can score some unique antiques or have a wine tasting at Amigoni Urban Winery. In case you needed another reason to visit Amigoni, the winery was also featured on Netflix's 'Queer Eye.'

Westwood

I’d never been a big sushi eater, but I will say that Blue Sushi Sake Grill in Westwood is where it all started for me. They have so many vegetarian options, you won't believe you're in Kansas City. This is easily the best sushi in KC. Although there is now a second location in Power & Light, I prefer this one even if it is on the Kansas side.

Country Club Plaza

Of course, you can’t leave Kansas City without having gone to the Country Club Plaza. Here, you have your typical shops and chains, but it is especially lovely to walk after the Plaza lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving. The people of KC look forward to this 95-year tradition every year.

Nearby, you can find the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. This is definitely one of the most popular attractions in the city, and it's understandable as it offers classes, tours, events, dining, and shopping! They are constantly rotating out exhibitions so there is always something new to see. Also, the shuttlecocks on the lawn make for the perfect photo op!

A couple of honorable mentions are the River Market area and Brookside. Can you say Farmers Market?? The River Market has tons of cool places to eat and hang out. Go to the City Market every Saturday and Sunday to check out more than 140 stalls of fresh produce, flowers, pastries, and more!

As far as Brookside goes, it is abundant in boutiques, bistros, and art! Check out some galleries and explore this gorgeous neighborhood.

And that’s pretty much it. I hope you’ve enjoyed this rather lengthy guide to Kansas City!