Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Cozy in KC. All opinions and photos are mine. I chose the travel itinerary points of interest.
I recently traveled to Kansas City and needed overnight accommodations. Luckily, Cozy in KC offers quality vacation rentals with upscale amenities and an on-trend style. One look at the Charlotte Retreat (4131 Charlotte St.), and I knew it was perfect for a weekend getaway.
CHARLOTTE RETREAT AIRBNB
HOME LOCATION
Nestled in the East Plaza neighborhood of Kansas City, Missouri, I was pleased with the bungalow’s proximity to some of the City of Fountains’ best attractions. I know you’ll appreciate the reasonable cost of the pet-friendly vacation rental.
Cozy in KC is an Airbnb Superhost, and the Charlotte Retreat is one of their top-rated properties in the metro.
AMENITIES
Indoors
We were pleased with the comfortable furnishing and ample seating. We thought the home had enough space for a couple to leisurely watch TV from the living room when not taking advantage of the entire kitchen to prepare a meal.
A blanket and velvety pillows gave the living room space a homey feel, which was delightful. Hotels are great, but sometimes you prefer a comfortable stay with amenities like home, and the Charlotte Retreat delivered.
Taking advantage of the flatscreen TV with access to streaming channels, we relaxed on the leather couch, watching the morning news with fresh coffee before departing for a day in the city. The bar included fresh ground coffee for the Keurig machine or French press.
At night, we chatted about the day’s adventures illuminated by lamplight. Reading the Guest Book entries recounting guests’ stays was fun before adding our own.
The kitchen had all the utensils needed to prepare a basic meal, and the spice rack included essential seasonings. Although it lacked a dishwasher, it didn’t matter as we didn’t have many dishes to do because we ate our meals at area restaurants.
The bedroom included a pillowy-soft, queen-sized bed. Flanked by two reading lights and an end table, it was a great place to kick back and enjoy a book or admire nature from the sliding glass door view.
A full bathroom with a tub and shower included Tommy Bahama bath products. A nearby laundry room came equipped with basic laundry supplies for extended-stay travelers. The bedroom closet and dresser drawer provided enough storage for our belongings.
Outdoors
A benefit of staying at an Airbnb is its privacy compared to a noisy hotel. Charlotte Retreat’s wrap-around deck is made for the ideal place to enjoy a bottle of wine and cheese while entertained by squirrels and bunnies. It came equipped with a picnic table with bench seating and two seating areas.
Although we saw neighboring homes’ residents come and go, they did not disturb the peaceful tranquility of enjoying the patio. We sat for hours watching the entertaining squirrels traverse up and down the trees while a cottontail bunny curiously checked out the neighbor’s garden.
Although the house was sandwiched between two more significant properties, it feels secluded because of its deep front yard and leading walkway. The neighborhood is well-kept and safe. We never heard the sound of traffic or neighborhood activity.
We enjoyed watching the sun’s rays move on the front lawn as the sun set overhead. A feeling of serenity and restfulness comes over us. Grateful for the calmness, we retired to bed.
PREFERRED PARKING & TRANSPORTATION
On-Street Parking
Parking was easy at Charlotte Retreat, as it is in an urban residential neighborhood, and the home lacked a driveway. We never had an issue parking each of our vehicles near the home using on-street parking.
I can’t recommend staying at Cozy in KC’s The Charlotte Retreat enough. It’s the ideal lodging for an individual’s or couple’s weekend stay. View the home’s page to learn more about the property and view rental rates. The house manual lists the requirements of guests during their stay and prior to leaving the home.
RideKC
If you prefer public transportation to see the sites, Ride KC buses are Zero Fare through 2o23. We rode the KC Streetcar at no cost traveling up and down a two-mile stretch of downtown. Use this map to plan the same downtown route, which starts and loops back to Union Station.
PLACES TO EAT IN THE AREA
Breakfast
Anchor Island Coffee
A bonus of reserving The Charolette Retreat is that you’re within walking distance of locally-owned eateries and shops. At Anchor Island Coffee (4101 Troost Ave.), the coffee is strong, but the vibe is laid back.
Opened in 2020, the cafe delivered island vibes with brightly painted walls and decorations. The owners consider the space a “tropical coffee shop” where everyone is welcome.
We ordered bagels and steaming cups of espresso for breakfast – reasonably priced for the quality. If you’re seeking breakfast options, the menu’s Chori Pap, French Toast, Acai Bowl, or Egg Breakfast wraps are wow-worthy.
PRO TIP: Do you need fresh groceries to return to the Airbnb? Check their reach-in community college where locally-sourced produce is for sale.
Oddly Correct
As they say at Oddly Correct (4141 Troost Ave.), “Most mornings aren’t exceptional; your coffee can be.” The coffee shop roasts its beans to serve “mind-opening” cups of coffee and cold brew on tap.
The whimsical mural outside the building and outdoor patio seating drew us to the cafe. Inside, the place was bustling with morning patrons ordering specialty coffee drinks and traditional drip espresso.
PRO TIP: Consider ordering a homemade menu of biscuits or a breakfast sandwich prepared with local ingredients. Gluten-free Hotcake Breakfast Sandwich is an option for those who require it.
Snooze: An AM Eatery
Do you check the restaurant reviews online before selecting one? We drove to Snooze, An A.M. Eatery (4144 Broadway Blvd) in Old Westport, a highly-breakfast breakfast restaurant. Although there was a 20-minute wait for a patio table, we didn’t mind the wait.
The standard breakfast classics are served elevated with inventive ingredients. We shared the Kimchi Spice Bloody Mary while our Garden Harvest Omelet and Habanero Pork Belly Benny were prepared. The food was delectable, and there wasn’t a bite left when we asked for the check.
PRO TIP: You’ll want to review the lengthy menu before arriving to allow for a leisurely breakfast.
Broadway Café
If you’re in Old Westport doing some shopping and want to grab a cup of coffee, I suggest visiting Broadway Café (4106 Broadway). Even though they were about to close, the staff greeted me warmly and was happy to serve a hot coffee to go.
Known for its espresso concoctions and baked goods, the coffee shop stays busy serving customers who sit indoors and often opt to watch passersby from the outdoor patio.
PRO TIP: Broadway Café roasts its beans. Bags of coffee fresh from the roastery are available for purchase.
Lunch or Dinner
Char Bar
Also located in Old Westport, Char Bar (4050 Pennsylvania Ave.) serves KC-style barbecue meats and side dishes in a fun-loving atmosphere. Adult guests play outdoor yard games between bites, and families with kids watch them as they play under a canopy of string lights.
We ordered a two-meat combo platter with ribs, brisket, burnt ends, and two southern-style sides, The Holy Trinity. Just as you would expect, the smoked meats were tasty, true to the city’s reputation for barbecue.
PRO TIP: As the server about new beers on top and the Happy Hour specials.
Grinders Pizza
One step inside Grinders, and you’ll think you’ve walked into a concert venue with a pizza oven. Signatures are scribbled all over the walls. TVs play Food Network while rock music plays in the background.
The place is wild. It’s where you dine when you’re in the mood for delicious non-traditional pizza, burgers, and wings prepared with inventive, extreme ingredients.
Drinks
Percheron Rooftop Bar
I love a hidden gem. Percheron Rooftop Bar (2101 Central St.) serves craft cocktails with skyline city views from Crossroads Hotel. The public is welcome to enjoy the bar every evening after 4 pm.
We enjoyed sipping craft beer while watching the clouds roll in from our perch over the metro. Music played indie rock, and the vibe was relaxed. Couples and small groups kept to themselves, soaking up the scene.
PRO TIP: Check the hotel’s Facebook page for live music event announcements.
Desserts
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
Why wait in line for ice cream? Because Betty Rae Ice Cream (412 Delaware St.) is “more than ice cream.”
We took the downtown shuttle from Union Station and discovered the ice cream shop by chance. The line moved quickly, and before I knew it, I was staring down a menu with flavors like Lavender Honey and Chocolate Brownie.
The shop smelled of freshly-made waffle cones. As I went to pay for my double scoop of Cereal Milk and Cinnamon ice cream, a friendly couple offered to buy it for me. Grateful, I resisted but thanked them for their kindness. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is as sweet as the customers there.
PRO TIP: While the flavor offerings often change, preview the menu while in line to be ready when it’s your turn to order.
PLACES TO EXPLORE IN THE AREA
Museums
Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
Located five minutes from The Charlotte Retreat, the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak Street) is well-renowned for its collection from 5,000 years ago to the present day.
We took a no-cost, self-guided tour of its exhibits, spending about two hours admiring the artwork. Like us, you’ll find yourself amazed at the broad collection of artifacts and paintings representing historical time periods from across the globe.
While we already had lunch plans, a magical Rozzelle Court Restaurant tour was a must-see for its ambiance. Additionally, Thou Mayest Coffee is a popular place to grab a beverage or pastry during the day, offering views of the grounds.
PRO TIP: Make your way outside to take photos of Oldenburg and Brugge’s 15′ shuttlecocks, a famous art installation at Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art (4420 Warwick Blvd) is another place to admire artists’ work. Free admission, free programs, and free parking make it a must-visit attraction in the area.
A number of the permanent collection pieces include sculptures, paintings, and photography ranging in styles from minimalism to avante-garde. Although smaller than the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the artwork is equally awe-inspiring.
During our self-guided tour, a museum volunteer provided background information on several paintings. My preferred gallery was in a non-traditional space, the museum’s cafe.
PRO TIP: Choose to dine, or at the very least, tour Café Sebastienne to view floor-to-ceiling paintings by Frederick James Brown. The restaurant serves lunch and weekend brunch.
Fun & Games
Up-Down Kansas City
You can count on me to find an arcade in most cities, and Up-Down Kansas City (101 Southwest Blvd.) is one that I highly suggest you check out.
The two-story arcade has over 50 games from the 80s and 90s, including all your favorites like Pac-Man, Iron, and Galaga, plus rows of pinball machines and carnival-like games.
If you visit on a Sunday, consider taking advantage of their special 6 Pack & A Pound for $25 (a $10 savings compared to the rest of the week). The special gives you six domestic tallboy beers and a fanny pack of 80 tokens. Between us, 80 tokens lasted two-and-a-half hours of game playing.
Note: This is a barcade, so only patrons ages 21+ are allowed.
PRO TIP: Hungry? Order pizza by the slice for $5 or a whole pizza for $30. Ask about daily bar specials.
Shopping
Westport
Westport, also called The Original Kansas City, is an urban neighborhood with an eclectic mix of shops. It is located between 39th Terrance and 43rd Street.
Whether you’re hoping to buy artisan skin care supplies at Soap Bar, indie home goods from Mid Coast Modern, or colorful dinnerware at Pryde’s Kitchen & Necessities, you are sure to fill your shopping bags.
I am a vinyl music collector, so my favorite store in Westport is Mills Record Company. The locally-owned store is well-organized by genre and artist, showcasing new and rare albums.
PRO TIP: Arrive before lunchtime to score on-street parking. While walking the area, keep your eyes peeled for remarkable public art and murals.
Public Gardens
The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden (4800 Rockhill Rd). is the place. To visit on a spring day is magical. A covered tree-lined pathway leads visitors to an open-air garden.
The sounds of falling water and birds are the only sounds you hear. However, you may notice one or two visitors sitting in shaded areas amongst flowering shrubs and vines; the setting’s tranquility envelopes you.
We felt like we had the gardens to ourselves, stopping only to say hello and thank a master garden for their hard work. Free to explore, the public is welcome as long as they appreciate the rules posted at the entrance.
PRO TIP: Pay homage to the Kauffman at the final resting place, a serene space adjacent to the paved path.
Memorials & Monuments
Boy Scouts of America Monument
Cruising through the neighborhood of our Airbnb, we noticed the Eagle Scout Memorial Fountain (Gilliam Road and E. 39th St.) and pulled over immediately for a closer look. Traveling with an Eagle Scout, it was undeniably a picture-worthy location.
The 222-foot-tall stone sculpture made of marble is the Boy Scout Eagle badge. Donated by the Starr family, the memorial represents the hard work Eagle Scouts devote to earning 21 merit badges and fulfilling a required community service project.
PRO TIP: Park in temporary parking on the street and walk one of two spiral concrete staircases to the top of the monument. Note: The water fountain was inoperable during our visit.
City of Fountains
You can’t go far in Kansas City without seeing a decorative fountain. Referred to as the City of Fountains, 48 eye-catching water displays are throughout the city. The first fountains were designed in the late 1800s.
In early April, residents celebrate Greater Kansas City Fountain Day. Events, artists, and vendors host events at various fountains in the city.
Firefighters Fountain and Memorial
The Firefighters Fountain and Memorial (Pennsylvania Ave. and W. 31st St.) is nestled amongst office buildings and retail storefronts. While there are many beautiful fountain displays in the city, this one earns my respect for its design and stunning memorial.
Pause as you view 48 streams of water falling into the basin around the statuary representing firefighters at work. A nearby memorial displays the etched names of the fallen firefighters.
PRO TIP: Purchase bus tour tickets to see the city’s fountains and learn more about them from a guide from May-September on the third Saturday of the month.
POINTS OF INTEREST
UNION STATION
One of the most iconic Kansas City points of interest, Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd.), should be at the top of your list of places to experience while in the metro. Constructed in 1910, the building was the hub of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas railways.
The third largest train station in the country, it now operates as an entertainment venue.
At Union Station, you’ll appreciate its Science City, 3-D movie theater, restaurant, shops, Gottlieb Planetarium, and gift shops. The building’s architecture alone is worthy of your time.
PRO TIP: Cross the street to tour the National WWI Museum and Liberty Memorial.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Our overnight stay at Cozy in KC’S Charlotte Retreat was one of our best Airbnb experiences yet, and I don’t say that lightly since we’ve stayed overnight at several homes.
Its proximity to the city’s top attractions, walkable neighborhood, and quaint restaurants made it far more worthwhile than lodging at an overpriced downtown hotel. It’s close to the Plaza, Westport, 39th St. District, and Brookside making it the perfect weekend retreat.
You’ll adore the accommodations at Charlotte Retreat. Reserve it for your Kansas City getaway.
Historically known as the birthplace of female aviator Amelia Earhart, Atchison is a thriving town once home to Kanza Indians. Lewis & Clark explored the area in 1804. Later, it became a hub for steamboats, railroads, and manufacturing.
In 1870, the Atchison railroad served as a learning rail town in the state, but times changed. The last Santa Fe train left town in the early 1990s, but the museum’s inventory of authentic artifacts keeps history alive.
I started the self-guided tour by watching a computer-generated video of Amelia Earhart welcoming guests. The life-like pilot spoke in quotable phrases inspiring museum-goers to go after their dreams.
The Virtual Reality Flight experience was worth the added time and ticketed cost. Donning a headset and using an airplane’s yoke, I attempted Amelia’s historic 1932 flight across the Atlantic Ocean. I didn’t make it to Paris, but I did land the plane safely in a farmer’s field.
A gift to his wife, Evah, the mansion features 25 rooms filled with period antiques, including an 1893 World’s Fair bedroom set, elaborate stained glass windows, and high-quality furnishings.
Walking the rest of the home’s interior, you’ll discover a 200-year-old walking wheel winder used to spin yarn wool. The parlor’s upholstered, open-arm couches with dark wood and framed artwork showcase the luxury the Hetherington family enjoyed.
Outdoors, an elaborate driveway leads to a restored carriage house that begs to be photographed.
The Evah Cray Museum is more than another stunning home in Kansas. It’s a time capsule from the past when a family decided to settle in Atchison and live in the home for 80 years. Given their wealth, they could have chosen to reside anywhere. They chose Atchison.
My tour, led by the museum’s docent, was exceptional. Expect to pay a moderate admission if you go, and you’ll want to plan to spend at least an hour touring the home.
PRO TIP: Ask about the home’s small theater, where you can watch a film about Atchison architecture. Visit the gift shop in the carriage house.
The 14-room home served as a showroom to display the types of wood his business provided and the intricate ways it could be used. You’ll notice he combined oak, walnut, and mahogany into its design from floor to ceiling. He incorporated non-traditional wall materials like leather into the wallboard design.
The cafe is where locals meet to catch up about the latest happenings in town. Where travelers like me enjoy quiet time and peruse the internet using free Wi-FI. And where you can shop for gift items from kitchen towels to home decor.
You’ll find the comfortable cafe is just what you need to set the tone for the day. The menu features freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee drinks. Return mid-day for a Signature Cocktail like The Atchison Mule of Amelia’s Final Flight.
Between bites, I enjoyed learning about Ann’s heritage, which included the Lopez & Vallejo families’ tradition of serving the community delicious food and treating customers “like a part of the family.”
I took my friend’s advice and chose the carbonara prepared with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce over spaghetti. You can expect Italian pasta dishes, shareable plates (crab cakes, anyone?), and chef-inspired main dishes ranging from Steak Diane to Chicken Madeira on the menu.
PRO TIP: The restaurant does accept walk-in diners, but the restaurant is a popular place, so consider making a reservation.
You can count on our favorite bar and grill menu items. The list includes burgers and sandwiches to chicken wings and sirloin steaks.
I chatted with the manager, Steve, while enjoying a Chicken Club Salad. This restaurant location is one of two Willie’s Sports Pub restaurants in Kansas; the second is located in El Dorado.
Launched in 2022, the store sells apothecaries, barware, gifts, kitchenware, and stationery. Leather earrings side alongside handcrafted soap while botanical prints are on top shelving stacked with enamelware.
PRO TIP: Self-described foodies, the owners do a fantastic job of stocking a reach-in cooler with specialty grocery items. Ask about cheese sampler boards available for purchase.
Whether you are shopping for blue and white ginger jars, holiday decorations, or faux botanicals, you’ll find them at Presley Pierce Interiors. Every corner of the shop draws the eye, and the window displays inspire one’s creativity.
Shoppers so appreciate the store’s merchandise that the owner often hosts pop-up events off-site in people’s homes. To track new inventory arrivals and learn about upcoming events, follow the store’s 
Walking through the store conjures up childhood memories. In search of boxed vintage toys? Autographed sports memorabilia? This is the place to shop. If you’re interested in trading cards of all kinds, pull up and chair and thumb throw the boxes.
PRO TIP: Collectors will appreciate Thorne’s House Hot Packs containing budget-friendly starter packs. View the store’s 
I was pleasantly surprised the store’s jewelry collection was reasonably priced for its quality. A decent inventory of hats, handbags, and shoes rounded out the accessory options.
PRO TIP: Their 
To call the Backroad Atlas a store would be to underrepresent its size. It feels more like an antique mall. Staff members are eager to assist you if you’re hunting for a particular item.
Shopping for a unique item is all the more charming thanks to the store’s cat, who occasionally visits customers to say hello.
A physician and the front rooms once owned the house were his examination rooms. As the story goes, the doctor operated on a 6-year-old child, Sallie, before the anesthesia took effect, and she died in the house. Years later, renters reported mysterious happenings, and the man felt as if he was scratched.
You can tour or stay overnight in the home known for its paranormal activity. Items sometimes crash to the floor. Figures are seen in the windows. Doors slam in the night.
A highlight of my visit was standing in the shade of the Moon Tree, a Sycamore grown from a seed taken to the moon on Apollo 14. Underneath, the names of 17 astronauts who gave their lives are recognized in the memorial.
Manicured gardens and tree spaces dot the landscape. Find the gazebo to enjoy a shaded space of solitude. 
PRO TIP: Take note of Memory Lane inductees’ names paying homage to aviation greats such as the Wright Brothers and Eileen Collins.
Families with young kids will appreciate the state-of-the-art playground, then walk to nearby horseshoe pits to teach them how the game is played.
PRO TIP: On-street parking is available at no cost.
My visit was peaceful as I scanned the horizon made up of trees overlooking the Missouri River running from St. Joseph, Missouri, through Atchison, and toward Leavenworth, Kansas.
The dedicated marker remembers the Atchison man who was the victim of violence after accidentally injuring a white man while hunting.
PRO TIP: Earhart created her own fashion line, often wearing clothing from it. Learn more from 
PRO TIP: Visit the 
Final Thoughts
McClain’s Market
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
Blind Box BBQ
Pathlight Brewing
Friction Beer Company
Paulo and Bill
Nick & Jake’s
Drastic Measures
Flying Cow Gelato
Indoors, the air conditioning was inviting. I watched professional volleyball on TV as 1950s music hits played from the speaker.
Land-based activities include equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, which appeared well-groomed and easy to navigate. I saw dog parents watching four-legged friends at the 44-acre off-leash area. Families ate lunch while admiring stunning lake views at picnic shelters.
To fully understand how Shawnee was established, tour the inside of an 1878 farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and chicken coop (live roosters and hens welcome you!). The reality of farmstead life becomes apparent when entering the Market Shed, where produce was washed and sorted for the market.
I found the botanical gardens, planted and maintained by K-State Research and Extension Center’s master gardeners, to be a highlight. The Typewriter Repair Shop was by far my favorite building for its authenticity.
The museum’s annual Bloody Mary Party is a popular fundraiser that uses the working farm’s tomato crop. You will want to attend their celebrations. Check their 
Are you following my Kansas road trips on social media? I post bonus content on 
Do you like to maintain a fitness routine while on the road? The hotel’s gym is designed to include exercise machines you’d expect to see, plus free weights. The room is large enough that several hotel guests can get in a workout and not get in one another’s way.
PRO TIP: Access a filtered water station in the fitness facility to refill your reusable bottle before departing for the day.
The locally-owned eatery’s menu includes full breakfast options plus a full page of appetizers and entreés you might expect to find in a Southern-style restaurant. Catfish bites, fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and hot wings appeal to diners who crave them. Don’t miss Southern Sundays!
PRO TIP: Ask William to package up a hard-to-resist Mariah Carey cookie to go. The restaurant partners with Mariah’s Cookies, Foodgod Fries, and Mr. Beast Burgers to provide pick-up orders, a popular service with residents.
No matter the time of day, I always find something I love on their menu. If it’s the early morning, I opt for breakfast burritos and a drip coffee. In the evening, I order a creative cocktail from the seasonal menu. When unsure what to order, I leave it up to the staff to make something inventive, like a bourbon margarita.
I ordered mouth-watering burnt ends and mac-n-cheese, which tasted 100% delicious. You can’t go wrong with anything you order, from rings and smoked turkey to bbq nachos and Legend Mac Bowls.
With an extensive lunch menu of thoughtfully prepared appetizers, salads, and soups, my friend and I ordered Fried Goat Cheese Balls for starters. My only wish is that we had more of them.
Sandwiched between homemade bread, the chicken salad was scrumptious, and the salads served on the side or as a meal are unmistakably good.
The chef brought warm apple dumplings with vanilla ice cream adding to the delightful dining experience.
Since it was Friday night, I took advantage of the steak special and ordered a ribeye and all the fixings – the comfort meal I craved while away from home. When pressed for his menu favorites, the owner suggested the Pastrami Burnt Ends Sandwich and the Surf-N-Turf dinner.
My al-a carte taco with chips and salsa made for a perfect lunch. Known for South of the Border favorites, El Pollo Loco, enchiladas, and burritos add to expected sports bar menu offerings.
I ordered a lager from KC Bier Company Dunkel to keep with the theme of supporting area breweries.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Each hole can be played two ways from concrete pads. Only a couple of water hazards make it challenging. The course hosts five to seven tournaments a year.
It’s not a race but a chance to push yourself and support your besties. Obstacles like the Vertigo Bus gave me pause, so I left it to the ladies to show me how it was done. They ran the hamster wheel, crawled through muddy ball pits, and swung from ropes, cheering one another on.
If you’re interested in other events at Zip KC, the owners convert the landscape into a walkable haunted path at Halloween, complete with fright-inducing rein actors. At other times of the year, events like Ultimate Field Day and Family Timber Challenge draw a crowd.
In the air, attendees can sign up for aerial activities like the
The park is also home to sports fields, a basketball court, paved walking trails, three playgrounds, and a dog park. You may catch a baseball game or practice in progress if you’re lucky.
PRO TIP: Check the 
Did you know there are over 45K acres of farmland, which accounts for 87.5 percent of all Kansas land? You support families and communities by shopping locally from a farmer or area business.
PRO TIP: Be the first to arrive at the market when it opens for the best product selection. View hours and vendor details 
I found the items for sale reasonably priced for a Midwest market. They have several restored cabinets with drawers to choose from if adding furniture to a home’s entryway or living space. Additionally, you’ll discover many neutral-tone lamps, sit-abouts, faux plants, and framed artwork for sale.
PRO TIP: Take your photo in front of the store’s super cool neon sign.
The curated pieces resemble high-fashion styles you see in big-city boutiques. I found it hard to resist the latest KC gear, and I still regret not buying the beaded earrings calling my name.
PRO TIP: Ask the staff about recent mark-downs.
Keeping with their #stayvintage theme, shoppers can expect to find antiques for their homes and closet. Need a retro dress? They have it. Want a set of dishes? They have it. Hoping to find a cool chair for your office? They have it.
Woodland & Willow
But that’s not all! Home decor finds are tucked amongst racks of clothing and jewelry. The store’s owner is great about helping you find what you want.
Good Vibe Society
It’s one-stop shopping for women’s clothing catering to people who prefer a bit of color in their closets. Attending an upcoming concert or going out on the town for date night? This is where you shop.
PRO TIP: Look for new store features. The owner plans to add a mini bar to the back of the store.
PRO TIP: If you lack time to attend a workshop, consider shopping the boutique space for a decorative sign to take home. From personalized door hangers to wall decor, you’ll find it there.
From signage with hilarious sayings and doggy dishes to flower pots to wooden lanterns, you will find the ideal gift for yourself or someone else.
Karen’s Country Kitchen
PRO TIP: Check the refrigerated cases for cheese samples.
The town is one that I’ll repeatedly visit for a plethora of things to do and people to meet.
If you’ve not enjoyed tamale, you can expect shredded chicken, pork, or beef in sauce wrapped in masa inside a corn husk. The dish represents traditional food brought to the states by Mexican immigrant populations. Masa is a soft dough made from ground corn with a slightly sweet yet savory flavor.
I ordered a Dirty Horchata served hot to accompany my meal. A cinnamon vanilla rice drink with a double espresso was served in a vibrant handmade coffee cup. The cafe’s interior is visually stunning as it is filled with colorful pottery from Mexico. All of it is marked for sale, so keep your eyes peeled for a gem to take home with you.
When our bus stopped at the 
We drove to a historic two-story stone building near railroad tracks and a baseball field, which has served as the headquarters for 
The nondescript building was constructed because the community needed a place where Latinos could gather without discrimination. In the early 1900s, it served as a Methodist mission and school. Years later, the outside of the building contrasts greatly with the interior’s design which features a sports bar where locals gather to enjoy game day.
It’s a hidden gem, or the kind of restaurant locals know and dare not tell others about, because their go-to places become crowded. Bring your appetite and prepare to be wowed by fresh seafood dishes like Shrimp Chipotle, Fire Grilled Trout, and Seafood Paella. They didn’t win Best Seafood and Best Mexican Food by Feast magazine for nothing.
It’s one of the most festive celebrations I’ve attended. Vendors line both sides of Central Avenue, offering the best gifts and authentic Mexican food dinners. The smell of freshly grilled meat lingers in the air.Walking the route, you encounter live bands performing Latin pop and regional Mexican music in front of small groups of onlookers. Women dressed as Catrinas wear makeup resembling skeletons ad flowing gowns with hats or elaborate headdresses.
I was asked if I wanted to ride in the parade inside a decorated bus with authentic music (see pictured). “Yes, of course!” We threw candy to eager children from the bus and waved at families. Dancers led our path down the street. Everyone was in good spirits laughing, eating authentic food, dancing, and singing. The festival is one you don’t want to miss.
Take a moment to downtown 
Opened in its original location in 2015, the cafe won Best Atmosphere for two years running by Restaurant Guru. You’ll love the casual, comfy ambiance of the café, which reminded me of The Perk in the TV show Friends. Trending music plays in the background as patrons sit at tables sipping coffee and bent over laptops. Paired-up friends chat about the day’s happenings.
It is nearly impossible to order at the register without spying on a delicious homemade pastry in the bakery case. The owner told me she had just pulled warm blueberry muffins from the oven so it was a no-brainer. It was the perfect pairing with my chai latté.
KC Wine Co. is not just a tasting room next to a vineyard. It’s a winery destination located on five acres with a multitude of things for visitors to enjoy.
Inside The Barrel Room, adults can savor tasting flights ranging from dry whites and reds to sweeter varieties. You’ll discover an expansive open-air building with outdoor seating and a scenic view of the vineyards just beyond its doors. An oversized KC Wine Co. lights up at night, providing a picture-worthy moment.
Plan your visit to the winery around one of their popular 
The red barn is also open to visitors. Walk inside to order a wine slushy, a pint of Free State Brewing Company craft beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Look for a seasonal display with a bench to take a photo with friends or family.
The building is a welcoming and beautifully designed space. The owners, who are brothers-in-law, did an incredible job creating both an indoor and outdoor patio space with you can sit back and be yourself, plus dogs are allowed on the patio.
The brewery quickly expanded from one barrel to five barrels since its opening last spring. Although they don’t off traditional beer flights, I wanted to taste all five of their brews ranging from an espresso stout to a golden ale. Each one tasted true to my character and exceeded my expectations. My favorite was Snap Chaps Western IPA, and lucky for me, I took a crowler home to enjoy later.
The food menu included a short list of flatbreads. When they told me that the brisket on the Meats Pizza was made by an American Royal award-winning barbecuer, 
My suite was a 456 sq. ft. living room separated from the bedroom by a privacy door. I appreciated its amenities, including free WiFi and a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator. Each room had a 42-inch HDTV, and the king-size bed was as comfy and plush.
The five-generations, family-owned vineyard and winery produce more than 20 wines, hard ciders, and wine slushies. During my taproom visit, I discussed the winery’s history with the owner while savoring the “Thankful for Wine” $10 flight (5, 2oz pours), a wide-ranging selection of dry to sweet wines.
Their best-selling wine, Hoftoberfest, tastes semi-sweet with pineapple notes that finish crisp. I prefer full-body, dry reds, so, I was a fan of Zin XXI, which had blackberry and plum notes.
Outside, wine enthusiasts can take advantage of patio seating and covered seating inside a second building also available for group parties. I recommend planning your visit around the sunset hour.
I was impressed by the brewery’s ample space to unwind and craft beer. Locals grouped up at tables with a view of the game.
PRO TIP: The brewery is closed Mondays, so you’ll want to plan your visit when the brewery and the food truck are open. View the hours 
Ice cream, baked goods, and candy dominated the menu, and the place smelled like freshly made waffle cones. I opted for a double scoop of Rocky Road ice cream, but seriously, you can’t go wrong no matter your menu choice. I recommend taking a few minutes to view the Flavor Wall before committing to your ice cream order.
Not in the mood for ice cream? Choose a hazelnut iced coffee, latte, or vanilla macchiato from the Espresso Bar menu.
A quick scan of the shelves and I noticed that they sell their bagged coffee beans, so I kept it simple and ordered a tall drip coffee. Irresistible pastries stared back at me from the glass case. A warm strawberry homemade Pop-Tart and a slice of quiche tasted delightful while I watched it rain outside from a window seat. Nearby, a cabinet with jewelry, branded merchandise, and retail candles sat on display.
The owner of Junque Drawer also owns Holiday House across the street (101 W. Cedar), which is one-stop shopping for all things festive. Thematic rooms are designed by style and color creating Christmas decor and ornaments. Wait until you see the bathroom shower filled with pillows!
PRO TIP: Start on the third floor and work your way down, ending the shopping experience at the register. If you’re searching for a specific gift item, ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction.
I recommend scanning the bakery case and the menu before ordering breakfast or lunch. I was searching for lighter fare and chose a flakey scratch-made croissant filled with chocolate. The chef could be seen in the kitchen busily cooking eggs for someone’s breakfast order.
PRO TIP: Don’t be surprised if they say you can pay for your order after dining in. Bring cash, or you must spend $5 for a credit card purchase.
The menu includes drool-inducing sandwiches like The Z-Man Sandwich, made with slow-smoked beef brisket topped with provolone cheese and onion rings. People rave about it for a good reason. It’s filling, so consider ordering the regular sandwich instead of the jumbo portion.
The food Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is putting out is pure kitchen magic. Do you want to try a variety of smoked meats? Order a Combo Sandwich or a Two Meat Dinner. Save room for dessert – ask about the seasonal dessert while ordering your meal. 
PRO TIP: Walk across the parking lot and check out 
