Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Missouri Tourism in partnership with Discover St. Charles. All opinions and photos are mine. I participated in planning the travel itinerary’s points of interest.
St. Charles, Missouri’s picturesque setting drew me to town. After exploring the Northeast Missouri River town overnight, I knew I wanted to return to see and do more.
Located a 30-minute drive from St. Louis, the city of over 70,000 residents maintains its “historically awesome since 1769” charm while offering locals and visitors one-of-a-kind restaurants, Main Street shopping, a thriving arts scene, and more.
The town may be known as the oldest city on the Missouri River, but its modern-day appeal makes it a town to put at the top of your travel bucket list.
Sip and Savor on Main Street and Frenchtown Historic District
The culinary scene is thriving, and the best way to familiarize oneself with the scene is to drop into eateries along Main Street and the Frenchtown Historic District.
Salt + Smoke
Locals told me to dine at Salt + Smoke (501 S. Main St.) before I walked the bricks to locate it. Known for its Texas-style barbecue restaurant with a massive inventory of bourbon, people love it for its relaxed patio setting and delicious menu selections. If you’re a beer drinker, they’ve also got you covered.
After placing my order for a cocktail and slow-smoked ribs appetizer, I listened to a band playing in the distance over the chatter of diners. A slight summer breeze blew enough to keep me cool and comfortable on a hot July day. I watched parents observe their kids feeding fish at the patio’s pond.
My server revisited the table to ask how my ribs tasted after a few minutes. “So good!” I muttered between bites. The deep smokey flavor and dry rub seasonings created the perfect outer crust, while the rib meat had just enough chew.
My dinner-sized kale salad arrived layered pulled smoked chicken and topped with copious amounts of goat cheese and walnuts. I didn’t leave a bite on the plate.
The server returned to clear my plate and we chatted about his love of aviation, an industry close to my heart. The final sips of my cocktail went down smooth.
I loved my dining experience so much that I returned the following evening for happy hour. Tempted to order the popular Eldest Uncle, a strawberry-infused gin cocktail, I caved and ordered another bourbon drink.
PRO TIP: Arrive for an early dinner or happy hour before the line forms for patio dining. I arrived on a Thursday at 5:00 p.m. and was ushered to an umbrella-covered table without issue. The line on Friday evening at the same time stretched about 12-15 people deep. Indoor seating is limited.
Bike Stop Café
Don’t you love an early-morning breakfast shared amongst friends? At Bike Stop Café (701 S. Riverside Drive), local cyclists converge on the restaurant to enjoy breakfast before a ride. It’s also a place locals love for its healthy menu choices ranging from its egg scrambles to unsweetened oatmeal bowls with seasonal fruit.
As I enjoyed a bowl of fruit and a coffee, I watched as cycling groups and individual riders parked their bikes, enthusiastic to see one another. Tourists entered the adjacent bike shop to inquire about renting bikes and helmets for a day’s trek along the Katy Trail State Park’s route.
Cyclists need a nourishing, healthy meal to last them through a long ride, and Bike Stop’s Café’s all-day breakfast and burger lunch menus fit the bill. Not a cyclist? The café is the cozy outdoor locale for those seeking to kick back on the patio over a made-to-order meal on a beautiful weather day.
PRO TIP: The bike shop doubles as a bike rental stop and retail store. Reserve an e-bike, hybrid, or gravel bike in advance to ensure availability.
Frontier Perk Café
Frontier Perk Café (108 S. Main Street) is a place to chat over coffee and fresh pastry and a locally popular breakfast and lunch destination. Now located in a space offering more seating, the restaurant caters to diners who appreciate made-to-order meals served until 3:00 p.m. six days a week.
Some locals warned me there might be a wait for a table, but I sat at a bar seat facing the barista within 15 minutes of my arrival at peak lunch hour. The restaurant’s brick-exposed walls and rustic wood, with a black accent interior, gave it a casual café vibe. As I devoured the poké bowl, I noticed servers delivering the popular Jake’s BBQ Wrap and crocks of French onion soup to diners.
MochaPoint Yemeni Coffee Co.
One of the newest businesses downtown, MochaPoint Yemeni Coffee Co. (343 N. Main Street), is worth experiencing for its non-traditional tea and Turkish coffee selections and fresh baked goods. Unfamiliar with Adeni Chai, an employee offered a sample of it. I loved it.
Its flavor depth was unlike standard Chai tea, containing pronounced floral and herbaceous notes. I drank the iced tea between bites of warm Honeycomb Bread stuffed with cream cheese and soaked in honey. Newcomers approached the counter and were greeted warmly as each one inquired about the unique menu items.
Other drinks on the menu included fruit refreshers and match teas. Coffee lovers may order boiled and unfiltered Arabic or Turkish coffee to pair with one of many fresh-baked pastries, including pistachio or almond croissants.
Good News Brewing Company
Good News Brewing Company (1121 N. 2nd Street), located in the nearby Frenchtown neighborhood, is a faith-based brewery and wood-fired pizzeria. Patrons become friends as they discuss the day’s happenings with bartenders and fellow beer lovers. Located in a restored firehouse, a back patio is a haven for locals (dogs welcome!) who want to enjoy small-batch craft beer in the sunshine.
It wasn’t long before I was visiting with locals about the Frenchtown Historic District, a hub for art and music lovers who care deeply about the neighborhood and its history. The brewery’s lack of televisions created a setting conducive to making new friends.
The pizza was so delicious that I nearly ate the entire 9″ pizza on my own. After finishing my meal and an IPA, which I also liked, I walked through a doorway to the adjoining Frenchtown Heritage Museum, where photography adorned the walls and poster artwork displayed behind glass.
PRO TIP: The museum is open during brewery hours and its contents rotate frequently.
Schlafly Bankside
At this point in life, I consider myself a craft beer connoisseur, having lost count of how many breweries I’ve frequented during my travels. So, I wanted to drink a pint at Schlafly Bankside (920 S. Main Street) since I was familiar with their beer list.
Originating in St. Louis, Schlafly’s Bankside location is a three-story brewery and restaurant with indoor-only seating. I choose an unfiltered IPA from a list of 14 beers on tap. Although I wasn’t hungry, the gastropub-style menu options sounded good, and the portions were large by the looks of someone’s burger.
PRO TIP: Ask about the Drink of the Day and the Soup of the Day.
La Belle Vie Café
On my last day in St. Charles, I returned to Frenchtown for breakfast. La Belle Vie Café’s (1200 N. Second Street) name lived up to the district’s European roots, with outdoor café tables on the front and back patio areas. Inside, exposed beams jutted from the ceiling to walls covered in ornate paper.
I previewed the menu in advance of arriving, so I knew I wanted to order The Figgins Sandwich, a scrambled egg croissant meal prepared with basil pesto, cheddar cheese, and spinach. The knife-and-fork breakfast arrived with toast, so I reminded them I wanted the customary fruit cup with it instead.
The baker’s croissant was one of the best-tasting I’ve eaten and the largest. (They bake fresh pastries daily.)
PRO TIP: I agree with Google reviewers. The restaurant gets busy by 10:00 a.m., so consider beating the rush and arriving at 9:00 a.m. like me.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Riverside Sweets
“Hey, Vanessa! Do you want to grab dessert after dinner?” You never have to ask me this question. I’d happily order a scoop of ice cream at Riverside Sweets (416 S. Main Street) any time of day, and its assortment of homemade candy is yet another reason to visit the confectionery.
Decadent ice cream flavors entice under illuminated glass. My purchase, a heaping scoop of cookies and cream in a cup, was perfectly portable for strolling Main Street’s brick sidewalks back to the hotel.
Grandma’s Cookies
Grandma’s Cookies (401 S. Main Street) was voted #1 Cookie Shop by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice 2024. I’ve never tasted a better homemade cookie. In fact, I saved one of my chocolate chip cookies for the drive home eventually eating it bite-by-bite over the next several days to savor it.
PRO TIP: Inquire about the Cookie of the Month flavor available Friday through Sunday.
Shop & Stroll Main Street
Park and walk Main Street to gain access to a multitude of locally owned shops selling clothing and home decor accents or experience hands-on fun making candles.
Candle Fusion Studio
I would rather make my candle than buy it at a big box store. At Candle Fusion Studio (104 S. Main Street), customers become artisans smelling aromatic oils to add to hot candle wax in a vessel of their choosing. With over 100 fragrances, I was excited to create mine made from an equal combination of vanilla and sandalwood, which I dripped into a small ceramic pot.
The staff poured the way, I stirred it for less than a minute, and then they added a trimmed wick to complete it. Within two hours, my custom candle was available for pickup.
I appreciate the simplicity of the experience and the staff’s helpfulness. I recommend the experience, and if shopping for others, pair a candle with other retail such as a 4-ounce handmade soap.
PRO TIP: View my Instagram Missouri highlight reel to watch a video of my candle-making experience.
MJ’s by Jujub’s
Women seeking a boutique selling on-trend apparel and accessories will appreciate MJ’s by Jujub’s (112 S. Main Street). A table covered with baskets of brightly colored patches caught my eye.
Shoppers can adhere patches of their choice to trucker-style ballcaps, a trending fashion accessory, or get creative and add them to a denim jacket. MJ’s offers hundreds of patches to choose from, whether you’re creating a hat for yourself or someone else.
Chuck and Lou
Chuck and Lou (610 Main Street) is where you shop when you want to take home a wearable souvenir or gift representing your St. Charles trip. The owner’s combined love for St. Charles and St. Louis is evident in the many branded shirts on display.
PRO TIP: The shop and its sister location in town host regular events. View its Facebook page to learn about DIY tie-dye t-shirt workshops.
Happy Camper Clothing
Do you love the outdoors? Shop Happy Camper Clothing (510 S. Main Street) for wearable threads that showcase your appreciation for nature. While the store specializes in screen-printed merchandise with outdoorsy messaging, you’ll also discover gift-worthy shirts, socks, and hats for those who love to support all things local.
Fig & Sparrow
I squeezed a stop at Fig & Sparrow (300 N. Main Street) into my shopping schedule, and I’m glad I did. The one-room shop specializes in kitchenware and gourmet food products, making it a must-stop for home cooks.
Cookbooks, cutting boards, bakeware, you name it, they carry it. Choose from table linens to bottled condiments as you collect items for purchase.
PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for deals. Their signature line of bottled glazes and burger starters were marked down to only $5 at the rear of the store alongside other bargains the day of my visit.
April’s on Main
I love a boutique that caters to my love of the changing seasons, and April’s on Main (222 N. Main Street) suits me. Of course, the home goods store carries more than holiday decorations, but its thematic displays are a definite draw.
The store’s inventory included year-round home decorations, faux flowers and plants, lamps, wall decor, candles, pillows, handbags, and jewelry.
If you’re looking for a treasure for yourself or someone else, expect to spend at least a half-hour perusing displays in the 4,700-square-foot store.
Explore Local History
Considered “Historically Awesome Since 1769,” St. Charles was founded by a French-Canadian fur trader, Louis Blanchette. In its early days, it was settled by Canadian French colonists. When they arrived, they discovered Osage and Missouri Native American tribes.
Fast-forward to 1804 when Lewis & Clark used the town as the last stop to gather supplies before explored West up the Missouri River.
Today, it is home to over 70,000 residents who appreciate it for its historic roots as the state’s first capital city.
Lewis & Clark Boat House & Museum
Lewis & Clark Boat House & Museum (1050 S. Riverside Dr.) provides a visual timeline of events detailing Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s travels beginning in St. Charles. President Thomas Jefferson tasked the men with keeping detailed records of what they saw and who they encountered during the 8,000-mile journey West.
Retrace their journey by taking a self-guided tour of dioramas and exhibits that showcase natural artifacts. The most fascinating artifacts on view were the geological samples (Missouri geodes) and replica journal entries.
The museum sees over 25,000 visitors anually, including school groups, and many of its displays are kid-friendly. They will appreciate the Little Classroom walk-in house.
PRO TIP: Walk behind the museum to see the boats on display, a traveling fleet of three replicas based on drawings by William Clark. They are on view when not used in events.
Lewis & Clark Monument at Frontier Park
After learning about the brave explorers, drive to the Lewis & Clark Monument (500 S. Riverside Drive) to shoot photos of the 15-foot bronze statue. Imagine your life as Lewis and Clark preparing to depart for an expedition in May 1804. The bronze busts installed around the monument represent men who joined the expedition.
Take a stroll along the Missouri riverfront’s paved sidewalks, taking breaks to admire one of the town’s well-known landmarks, Katy Depot. The restored building was restored and moved to its home on the Katy Trail State Park. If you travel with a bike or want to increase your step count, this is a recommendable rail-trail line for exercise enthusiasts.
Hit the Bricks Walking Tour
The single best way to immerse yourself in St. Charles’s history is to sign up for a Hit the Bricks Walking Tour. There are two tour themes, each departing from the tourism center (230 S. Main Street) in groups limited to 15 people.
My group, on The Key to the West: Pioneers, Explorers, & Traders…Oh My! tour, was handed old-school viewfinders to use when prompted by the tour guide along a five-block route. The guide talked as we walked from historic building to building, telling stories about the people who chose to live and work in St. Charles’ early days.
People of all ages are invited to participate in one-hour tours, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for uneven sidewalk surfaces.
First Missouri State Capital State Historic Site
When you experience a guided one-hour tour of the First Missouri State Capital State Historic Site (200 S. Main Street), you’re standing in the very place where the state’s first legislators met and made history-making decisions.
St. Charles was a center for trade, so the town’s center wanted it to become a capital city. Governor McNair signed a bill confirming its status in 1820, and legislators met there the following year to debate states’ and enslaved people’s rights.
The most interesting aspect of the tour was listening to our enthusiastic tour guide talk about the historical artifacts inside the restored Peck brothers’ general store and residence. The 1820s furnishings served as visual reminders or the hardship of early 19th Century life.
The tour costs departs from the lower-level gift shop, where St. Charles-themed merchandise is sold.
The Soda Museum & Arcade
If you or someone in your travel group loves quirky museums with unique themes, pay admission for a self-guided tour of The Soda Museum & Arcade (126 N. Main Street), a new addition to downtown.
The top two levels of the building contain glass display cases filled with vintage soda bottles and merchandise representing a portion of one man’s collection. The main floor showcases many Coca-Cola-branded items, while the third floor showcases other soda brands.
Gazing into display cases filled with thousands of bottles, cans, and fan merchandise is a nostalgic walk back in time. Which carbonated beverage did you drink as a kid?
For me, the best part of the museum experience was playing vintage arcade games downstairs. For $15, you can play unlimited retro games, ranging from classic Ms. Pac-Man and Ice Ball to old-school pinball machines.
PRO TIP: Add to the arcade experience by enjoying a meal from the snack bar with your favorite carbonated soda.
Admire Amazing Art
Foundry Art Centre
Art lovers will feel right at home at Foundry Art Centre (520 N. Main Street). The lower level’s galleries showcase rotating exhibitions and the upper level contains artists’ studios.
Some artists teach classes in their studio spaces while others use it to create their projects and sell them.
Once a train car factory in the 1920s, the building’s lower-level grand hall often hosts public events, including bingo nights and live performances.
I was impressed by the volume and variety of pieces curated for the Main Gallery’s show. The center’s events calendar lists upcoming art exhibitions.
Relax in Comfort
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
Country Inn & Suites by Raddison (1190 S. Main Street) is a massive hotel within walking distance of Main Street restaurants and shops on picturesque Main Street. My check-in was easy, and the front desk staff greeted me warmly.
Admittedly, I didn’t use the hotel’s amenities like the indoor heated pool or fitness center because I spent time in my room relaxing when I wasn’t exploring St. Charles. Do you know what I love most about a comfortable hotel stay? Peace and quiet, a plush mattress, and a clean walk-in shower with good water pressure. Country Inn & Suites checked all the boxes.
Despite the hotel’s almost full capacity, I always found a parking spot in the covered garage or nearby lot. I preferred walking to most Main Street destinations versus moving my car.
As I departed, I took a last look at the hotel lobby, admiring its beautiful interior.
My overnight stay in St. Charles was one I’ll never forget. People often ask me, “What city could you return to for another visit?” It’s a short list, but St. Charles is definitely on it.
I hope you get the chance to explore the memorable sites and savor St. Charles’ best food while in Northeast Missouri. Tell them I sent you, and if you stop by the visitor’s center, ask them, “What’s up, St. Chuck?”
After watching a 15-minute introductory film about Mark Twain and the cave’s natural formations, I embarked on the tour with a guide during a scheduled time. We mainly walked level ground into the well-lit cavern, stopping to admire the dugout considered Jesse James’ hideout. The outlaw and Mark Twain each signed their names in the cave.
Perhaps the most interesting part of the tour was at its end when we chatted about the artifacts recovered from inside on display behind glass.
The bartender did an excellent job educating customers about each one as she poured wine flights for them. I sipped a recommendable dry chardonnay, Satire, from an oversized chair while listening to streaming music. (The bartender’s Spotify playlist featuring Indie Rock was excellent.) For non-wine drinkers, a selection of beer and non-alcoholic drinks is available.
Patio seating is available outdoors. The winery hosts occasional live music on weekends, which is promoted on its 
PRO TIP: Look up at the wood beam and down at the original flooring to admire its architectural details.
How many references from Twain’s books can you recognize about these buildings?
As I approached the Jim’s Journey building, I was met by its director, who invited me to sit on a shaded bench and chat about our personal stories. During the guided tour of the one-room museum, I felt a sense of appreciation for her efforts to educate others about the black experience in Hannibal. I peered into cases containing handwritten letters and flipped through black-only class yearbooks.
The museum may be small in size but the impression it makes on visitors is impactful thanks to its incredible artifacts collection, the handiwork of its director.
I was struck by the café’s size and its menu offerings, which include nutritious meals for health-minded customers. The overnight oats parfait made with fruit and nuts complemented a hot vanilla latté, a nice alternative to a plate of eggs and potatoes.
PRO TIP: Bring the kids to enjoy a scoop of 12 flavors of hand-dripped ice cream served in waffle cones or cake cones.
PRO TIP: I asked my server what her favorite meal when on break at work. She recommended the Smoked Pork Sandwich with barbecue sauce.
The experience started with staff snapping my photo in front of a nautical backdrop before ushering me aboard and to my reserved table. Musician Tim Hart played acoustic guitar while guests enjoyed drinks and views of the river. After the captain announced dinner was ready, each table was invited to the buffet for a chicken breast or beef-tips dinner with a choice of sides.
Located about a 10-minute drive from downtown Hannibal, I recommend staying there if you’re seeking comfortable accommodations, whether traveling solo or with your family. The family dog is welcome, too.
As a first-time visitor, I was impressed by how the town has evolved since its days as the last stop for pioneers heading West. For a location considered the place to go in 1861, it’s maintained its visit-worthy status as a Midwest travel destination.
Entering into the Patee House Museum is like walking into Missouri’s version of the Smithsonian. The historic building’s enormity and contents are awe-inspiring.
I suspect you’ll find the U.S. provost marshall’s office, a wagonmaster’s blacksmith shop, and restored cars outside a 1920 replica service station fascinating. A self-guided tour of the first railway mail car and a ride on the Wild Thing Carousel is a must.
Not only is the three-room home historically accurate, but its glass cases house artifacts from Jesse’s grave recovered when they exhumed his body in the 1990s. DNA evidence proves with 99.7% accuracy that he was shot in the home.
Open Monday through Saturday from April through October; the Jesse James Home takes about 30 minutes to tour if you read the signage and ask questions of the museum’s host.
PRO TIP: Ask to see a replica skull that debunks the myth the gunshot that killed James exited his head, although a hole in the home’s wallpapered wall may prove otherwise.
PRO TIP: 
Wood floors creak under each step as you choose a seat at a student desk for the day’s lesson. An authentic pot-bellied stove, slate boards, and presidential portraits create a historically accurate setting.
Push button interactive stations play videos of his life story and CBS News broadcast clips, including Vietnam’s coverage during the war.
Various exhibits chronicle moments in Cronkite’s career history, including NASA’s landing on the moon, JFK’s assassination, and coverage of 16 Republican National Convention events. The “We Came In Peace” Saturn V Sculpture and Cronkite’s original newsroom desk make an impression.
The restaurant is decorated with draped beads on chandeliers and rope lights around interior columns. A taxidermy alligator on an upper shelf rests under neon signage.
The Blackened Salmon arrived heavily-seasoned for dinner, although slightly overcooked, so I requested a white cream sauce to drizzle on top of it. The signature Boudreaux Potatoes were cubed and boiled potatoes served in savory vegetable broth.
PRO TIP: Plan to save room for dessert. My only regret was not ordering dessert, which unfortunately did not include New Orleans-style beignets, but it did feature Bourbon Pecan Pie and Turtle Cheesecake.
A London Fog hot tea and layered pastry filled with Nutella curbed my cravings. Although the courtyard patio was inviting, I chose to sit inside while it rained outdoors. Chatting with employees about their love of the town’s art scene only confirmed my appreciation of St. Joseph.
PRO TIP: J
I selected a River Cream Ale, an approachable light beer from over 12 craft beers. It went down easy as I observed families gathering and couples arriving for date night entertainment.
Upon arrival, classical music played in the home’s foray, where a hand-carved wooden staircase led my eye upstairs to a row of stained glass windows. Opulent crystal chandeliers and tiled fireplace mantels adorned each room on the main floors. Period furniture, artwork, and a bust of Shakespeare completed the Queen Anne-style home’s interior.
I stayed in the 
A peek inside unoccupied suites revealed similar amenities. The bed and breakfast caters to couples and solo travelers, although the 
Innkeeper, Isobel, offers guests a remarkable experience unlike anything you’ve likely experienced. Reserve a suite at 
The 
During my return trip to Leavenworth, I was eager to take in places I had yet to discover and revisit old gems.
PRO TIP: The Burr-ow, a backroom space dedicated to reading or board gaming, is a quiet spot to work.
It’s a scenic area worth exploring for its birdwatching and native treelined grounds. The path lies parallel to an active Union Pacific railway, a nod to the town’s railroad era that replaced the Missouri River’s steamboat industry.
They recorded detailed notes about the region’s landscape for President Thomas Jefferson noting what people could expect heading west. Signage overlooking the river at 2nd and Dakota Street recognizes their visit to the area.
It’s the tucked-away murals that excite me the most. Keep your eyes peeled for smaller paintings on doors on various buildings downtown.
I dined on deviled eggs with bacon and a chicken cobb salad to the beat of Jamaican music while watching hosta leaves sway.
Between sips of iced tea, I noticed the hostess lead lunchtime diners to patio tables to enjoy the scenery, which resembled a nicely designed backyard landscape.
If you love old collectibles, you could spend hours perusing the mall while listening to oldies music play overhead. The friendly employee at the front desk is happy to answer questions about refurbishing relics.
Of course, you can always spot something delightful for the home when you’re ready to swap out your seasonal decor. From garden flags to great-smelling candles, CJ Gift Co. satisfies shoppers on a mission to beautify their space.
Expecting parents and grandparents will appreciate the owner’s selection of kid-loving plush toys. Seasonal items, bath products, and top-selling Leavenworth t-shirts round-out the front-of-store inventory.
PRO TIP: The store is also home to 5th Avenue Frames. Ask them to custom frame artwork, photography, or prints.
Consider creating a gift basket for someone while shopping for yourself. Whether one loves hot tea or cold brew, Queen’s Pantry Teas is the place to shop.
The owner, who was busily crafting jewelry in a studio, greeted me, as did her helpful staff. I perused the store, admiring an endless boho chic apparel and jewelry inventory.
The owners, a mother-daughter duo, carry the latest fashions for the season on display at the front of the store.
If the thought of enjoying the salty goodness of popcorn with the sweet flavor of your favorite candy bar excites you, stop by Popcorn Pit Stop for a grab-and-go bag.
Peruse the outdoor garden houses to shop for plants and flowering hanging baskets before entering inside the store for refrigerated food items. Travelers without coolers will appreciate jarred foods and bagged dry goods.
The sounds of Space Invaders and Mortal Kombat resonate through the arcade, open Thursday-Saturday. It’s an excellent place for all ages to enjoy indoor entertainment in a nostalgic setting.
The reservation-required dinner and a show were entertaining, and the best part of the evening was getting to know the guests at our shared table, who welcomed me like new friends. Three hours of fun flew by.
My King Suite home-life feel helped me unwind after a fun day of exploring. In the morning, I checked emails on my laptop using high-speed internet from a in-room workstation before enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast in the lobby.
In Merriam, the home offers visitors access to nearby parks and trails, boutique shopping, and local eateries, plus it’s minutes away from attractions like the 
Using a self-entry keypad, I entered the home and was impressed with its earth-toned furnishings and globally-inspired design. The interior was tastefully decorated simplistically. After a full tour of the house, it exceeded my expectations for design and cleanliness.
Upstairs, the main living room area is an inviting space seating multiple people comfortably. It’s the ideal place for adults to hang out and enjoy morning conversation over coffee or cocktails before preparing dinner.
The primary bedroom features a king-size bed with plush linens, a workstation desk area, and a ceiling fan.
Nearby secondary and third bedrooms include queen-sized, sun lit bedrooms with interior closets and ceiling fans. Extra blankets, an ironing board, and iron are available. Each is styled with minimal yet sophisticated decor keeping with the boho style.
Each shower and vanity comes with fragrant Tommy Bahama bath products so you can pack light overnight. Bright and cheery spaces, the bathrooms are tidy and clean, including fluffy towels and a hair dryer.
Something about the home’s decor, reminiscent of dessert colors and textures, inspired me to want to shake up a salty margarita using the bar cart station. Guests could use the arched window separating the kitchen from the living room to pass drinks to friends for a crowd-pleasing good time.
Inside, plenty of seating is available, with access to three sitting rooms. Savor a warmed blueberry scone and iced coffee amongst people gathering for friendly meet-ups or to work remotely using complimentary Wi-Fi.
If it’s your first visit, order the classic cheeseburger combo with crinkle-cut fries or tater tots. Fill a medium drink cup with fountain Pepsi before heading to a patio table.
PRO TIP: Check the bar’s 
Although tempted by a long list of flavors, I selected maple bacon ice cream, a satisfying choice. I watched kids play a video game console while others sipped Boba drinks and ate ice cream at brightly-colored seating areas.
A dog-friendly patio. Beers named after birds. Relaxed vibes indoors. What else could you want?
The shop also hosts merchandise drop and Moonlight Market events. Follow the 
Smiling employees greeted me with enthusiasm as I shopped for gifts for my niece, which they wrapped in pretty tissue paper. Like me, grab a mini shopping basket and enjoy the experience.
I watched as the owner drew illustrations on greeting cards and prepared them for sale, and of course, I bought one. Who can pass up a handmade greeting card? Short on time, I’ll definitely return to shop for pre-loved clothes or a handbag.
I sat on a bench near flowering shrubs while watching Turkey Creek’s water flow over rocks, creating instant calm. Native birds flew overhead as the trees gently swayed in the breeze.
A caterpillar sculpture by artist Joshua Weiner entitled 
Don’t miss a chance to appreciate public artwork installations at Merriam Marketplace, a fun area for group photos or selfies.
Kansas City Wheel
Shop Moon Marble Company’s retail for assorted marbles, nostalgic toys, and games. Staff are eager to explain how to play marbles, if you’re want to buy a set.
I was impressed with the large turnout and visited with audience members between songs, making for a delightful experience.
I’ve raved about Quentin BBQ’s menu since it I discovered their food truck in the 
Additionally, The on-site art gallery showcases The Harvest Queen mural by George Melville Stone. A walk outdoors to Farm Town USA is fun for young kids who can participate in 
The baked bread and fruit pies are irresistible, and you can expect produce twice the size of grocery store varieties sold at reasonable prices. I made two purchases and a new friend within 15 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful, prism-cut crystal for your home or a tumble stone for a friend, you’ll find it here. I enjoyed visiting with the owner, who is passionate about stone hunting and is quick to recommend the best stone for each person.
The owner handpicks brands that are also suited for youngsters and shoe lovers, and she specializes in personalized wood-etched gifts.
For what the store lacks in size, it makes up for in inventory volume, catering to shoppers seeking a casual or semi-dressy outfit for a same-day event or date night. Shop near the register for make-up and small gift items.
The owner and creator, Valerie, sews on patches and appliques to reimagined denim jeans, jackets, and overalls. Fabric swatches are sewn together to create one-of-a-kind apparel like the dress pictured above. Shop from available inventory or place an order for pick-up.
I wasn’t leaving without trying beef lasagna and garlic toast (the “light portion” is pictured below) with a small garden salad. The marinara sauce was so tasty that I used the bread to mop up every last bite.
