Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Cozy in KC. All opinions and photos are mine with the exception of one courtesy image. I chose the travel itinerary’s points of interest.
Boho Lounge, a vacation rental by Cozy in KC located in Merriam, Kansas, was just the place I wanted to relax and unwind when I wasn’t exploring town.
I’m a big fan of their Airbnb properties, and this one was my third vacation rental overnight stay in the Kansas City area. It always feels like a home away from home.
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 Kansas City Wheel and Crown Center. The suburb considers itself the next-door neighbor to Kansas City, a quiet community with small-town charm.
BOHO LOUNGE
Vacation Rental Location
Boho Lounge is a renovated single-family home situated at the end of a residential street and nestled amongst towering, shady trees. The three-bedroom, two-bath vacation rental sleeps eight guests, so it was more than enough space for my overnight stay in Merriam.
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.
Amenities
Washer & Dryer
There is nothing more comforting than knowing I can launder my clothes while on an extended road trip. Boho Lounge’s full-sized washer and dryer laundry closet makes it possible for guests to run a load of wash while relaxing in front of the TV or exploring the city.
Smart TVs & Technology
Each flatscreen in the home includes Roku streaming options, which include free viewable movies, television shows, and live news coverage.
Games
Make it an entertaining game night when the group is gathered in the downstair’s living room. Cozy in KC always stocks family-friendly board and card games to start the fun. Besides, who doesn’t love a competitive game of Uno to kick off the weekend?
Parking
Guests access a sloped driveway to park in front of a two-car garage on the side of the home. To enter the house, guests must enter via a backdoor and climb stairs to the upper level.
Living Rooms
Not one, but two living rooms provided extra space for lounging at Boho Lounge. The downstairs living room includes a flat-screen TV, comfy furniture, and access to a full bathroom with a shower.
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.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms
Boho Lounge’s three bedrooms are located on the top floor along a singular hallway from the living room. With access to a full bathroom with tub/shower, guests have plenty of space in each bedroom for their belongings.
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.
Kitchen & Dining
Boho Lounge’s kitchen is more spacious than most, thanks to its open concept and a dining set with seating for four guests. Top-of-the-line appliances, basic kitchenware, and a well-stocked coffee bar inspired me to make the most of the space.
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.
Patios
The good vibes-only theme continues outside, where hanging lights over an outdoor fire pit keep the good times going after dark. During the day, I found the back patio a tranquil space to watch birds and squirrels when lounging from an Adirondack chair with a book in hand.
Things to Do Within a Short Drive
Boho Lounge is located near restaurants and entertainment in Merriam, Mission, Shawnee, and greater Kansas City. I recommend experiencing the following must-stop locations, whether traveling solo or with a group.
Restaurants
Urban Prairie Coffee
Sunshine and coffee? Count me in. I love a local coffeeshop hangout, and Urban Prairie Coffee (5606 Johnson Drive) is where the locals go for their daily caffeinated drinks and morning pastries. Also known for their breakfast burritos, it’s a hopping place before 9:00 a.m., and patio seating is usually claimed.
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.
Grandstand Burgers
The sizzle and yummy smell of grilled hamburgers greets you inside Grandstand Burgers (4942 Merriam Drive). The cozy burger stand is celebrating over 20 years in business, a fixture in the neighborhood where diners order at the counter and wait outside for their to-go order to be called over the loudspeaker.
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: Pick-up orders using the Grandstand App are popular with locals.
Hurricane Allie’s Bar & Grill
Live music and good food are the reasons locals and visitors hang out at Merriam’s Hurricane Allie’s Bar & Grill (5541 Merriam Drive). Greeted by a friendly server, my friend and I enjoyed scrumptious “puffy” tacos and a hamburger while chatting between bites.
PRO TIP: Check the bar’s Facebook page for announcements about upcoming live music, which plays outdoors during the summer on select nights.
Foggi Ice Cream
Sometimes, the best discoveries when traveling are when you take the advice of locals. Foggi Ice Cream (6015 Johnson Drive) in Mission is a neighborhood favorite stop for uniquely flavored ice cream made to order using nitrogen. It’s a visual show.
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.
Sandhills Brewing
Oak fermented craft beers are the on the menu at Sandhills Brewing (5612 Johnson Drive), a taproom also located amongst retail shopping in downtown Mission. I’m a big fan of their beers having tried them years ago at their original Hutchinson, Kansas, location. The New England-style IPA, Junco, is my go-to bevvy for its citrusy full flavor.
A dog-friendly patio. Beers named after birds. Relaxed vibes indoors. What else could you want?
I appreciate Sandhills Brewing serves flagship favorites plus added seasonal beers, making a beer flight of four pours essential each visit.
Shopping
The Sunflower Market
Do you have a creative side? Create a custom t-shirt at The Sunflower Market (5847 Merriam Drive), where you can shop for personal gift items while you wait. In-store t-shirt orders’ turnaround time is five minutes, and online orders are ready in two to three business days.
The shop also hosts merchandise drop and Moonlight Market events. Follow the Facebook Events page for details. You’ll love the local vendors, ranging from handmade jewelry and pillows to hand-poured candles and drinkware.
Truly Madly Depot
Truly Madly Deeply (5727 Johnson Drive) is one of several cute retail shops operated by female entrepreneurs in downtown Mission’s business district. Shoppers seeking imported Japanese stationery, unique craft kits, journals, and hilarious greeting cards will feel right at home.
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.
LuLu’s Boutique
At LuLu’s Boutique (6017 Johnson Drive), colorful paintings adorn the walls above clothing racks and shelves towering with entertaining gifts. The shop doubles as an art studio for the owner and a vintage clothing retail store.
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.
Slater Street Antiques
Drive less than five minutes to Slater St. Antiques (5905 Slater St.), where vintage finds await. The complex includes more than one building housing retro furniture, clothing, artwork, and home accessories from days gone by.
I’ve shopped at the antique mall a couple of times, and I always see something I want to purchase, especially at my favorite vendor’s booth, Side Hustle KC.
ShananiGanns
ShananiGanns (11006 Johnson Dr.) is the place to stock up on Kansas City sports-themed apparel and jewelry in Shawnee, a short drive from Merriam.
If you’re also in the mood for a whimsical gift for a friend or co-worker, the store’s many rooms are stocked with funny socks, home decor, and tumblers.
Outdoor Attractions
Waterfall Park
Merriam is home to numerous parks beckoning outdoorsy people to explore, including Waterfall Park (5191 Merriam Drive), with scenic views, trails, and public artwork.
If you’re traveling with active kids, take advantage of the park’s soccer fields and newly installed playground equipment.
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 Hmmm… drew my attention in the distance. The towering figures serve as a gateway to a paved multi-use trail along Turkey Creek Streamway Park.
Parents pushed strollers, and a runner passed me as I ventured along the paved pathway in search of the butterfly garden.
Merriam Marketplace
Across the street, Merriam Marketplace (5740 Merriam Drive) is site of the city’s farmers’ market on Saturdays from May through September.
The plaza in the heart of the historic district is a great place to picnic for a shaded lunch before venturing along Turkey Creek Streamway Trail and two-acre Werner Park..
Don’t miss a chance to appreciate public artwork installations at Merriam Marketplace, a fun area for group photos or selfies.
The city commissioned Planting the Seeds by sculptor Christopher Weed (larger than life!) and artist Kate E. Burke’s Parade of Hearts installment, My Heart Resides in Strawberry Hill.
Kansas City Wheel
See a picturesque 360-degree view of the city aboard the Kansas City Wheel (2485 Jefferson Street), a Ferris wheel experience with seating up to six people per gondola. Pair it with Pennway Putt when you book your tickets.
Pro Tip: Enjoy lunch at Fritz’s at Crown Center if you’re traveling with children. The railroad-themed restaurant is an interactive dining experience for all ages, which wows the youngest travelers. View a video preview of what you can expect.
More Places to Explore Within a Short Drive
I’ve grown quite fond of this area outside of Kansas City for its access to attractions. If you’re willing to make a short drive to nearby suburbs for bonus things to do, consider my weekend itineraries for Shawnee and Olathe, Kansas.
Reserve Boho Lounge in Merriam via Airbnb here.
Bonus Cozy in KC Places to Stay in the Area
If you’re traveling to Shawnee consider staying at Cozy in KC’s Tumblweed downtown apartment. Are you interested in an Airbnb in the metro area? Reserve Cozy in KC’s Charlotte Retreat: The Perfect Vacation Rental for Your Next Kansas City Weekend Getaway.
I can’t recommend staying at a Cozy in KC vacation rental enough. Leave your questions or comments below, and I’m happy to answer them.
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 
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.
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.
You’ll enjoy strolling to many of these shops, and the public art and historical markers dotting the district’s landscape make shopping the area entertaining.
One of the newest additions to Downtown Shawnee’s storefronts, Chicken Creek Co. by The Flower Chick, caters to women who love brightly colored, fun, and sometimes whimsical gifts. The hilarious greeting card selection makes gift-giving easy.
Each item in the store is hand-selected by its owner. I appreciated that she stocks handcrafted items by other independently-owned businesses, ranging from jewelry to candles.
Shoppers can expect fiction and non-fiction titles, and I was impressed to see several best-selling titles in stock. Are you on the hunt for a good read during a road trip? Do you have a young adult reader interested in a new book? You’ll find multiple genres at Seven Stories.
Don’t be surprised if you find a gift for someone else while shopping for your next book. A hand-curated selection of whimsical greeting cards are for sale.
Many of the gift items are adorned with funny sayings and hilarious phrases. Shoppers know that the owner frequently replenishes the inventory with new items; sometimes, a line of customers forms outside the storefront before it opens.
Known for their handmade selection of individual chocolates, I also love the extensive line of confections. Don’t leave the store without asking for a sample of the Milk Chocolate Covered Toffee. One bite and you’re likely to buy a bag of it.
Melt-in-your-mouth Sea Salt Caramel, Imperial filled with creamy, chocolate ganache, and Vanilla Bean chocolates are some of my top recommendations if you’re creating a bag or box of sweet treats.
Animal lovers will appreciate the selection of domestic and exotic animals. The family owned and operated store’s greeter, Frankie, a Capuchin monkey, excitedly jumps around its cage attracting shoppers’ attention.
For me, the chirping colorful birds and fluffy bunnies were the highlight of the visit.
As I perused the shelves, I noticed the owner carries mostly Midwest brands of bath bombs, personal hygiene products, and household cleaners.
If you’re someone who prefers a sustainable lifestyle, you’ll appreciate the store’s thoughtfully selected inventory.
Suds Refillery hosts a candle filling event every third Thursday of the month, so bring an empty vessel with you when you arrive.
The ideal accommodation for travelers seeking a beautiful vacation rental that sleeps four people or a business traveler who wants more space and comforts of home than a hotel provides, 
Soft pillows and a floor rug are comfortable additions to the living room, a spot where I snuggled up under a blanket to stream my favorite TV shows as the snow fell outside.
The simplicity of the room’s design provided a clutter-free relaxing experience. When I wasn’t resting peacefully, I streamed a movie from the Roku TV options while nestled under a plush duvet. A cellphone charging station on the bedside table made it a hassle-free experience.
Luxury amenities, including Tommy Bahama bath products, a hair dryer, make-up removal washcloths, and soft white towels conveyed Cozy in KC’s sense of care for the guest experience.
The apartment’s second bedroom was equally spacious providing plenty of room for added guests to feel at home. Like the master bedroom, the walk-in closet included a hangers, a luggage rack, and a soft king-size microfiber blanket.
For those seeking a relaxing soak, the second bathroom’s shower/bathtub combination meets one’s needs. The window streaming natural light and spacious countertop gave it a suite-like feel.
A nearby built-in cabinet provided access to placemats and essential barware.
While staying the weekend, I appreciated the state-of-the-art appliances when preparing breakfast before heading out to explore Shawnee. It was nice to wake up after restful sleep and prepare a pot of tea. If I felt like coffee, I used the K-Duo® Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker and the provided coffee grounds.
Known for a gastropub menu of hearty classics ranging from flatbread pizzas to comforting classics like meatloaf, the food arrives at the table artfully plated and tasting delicious. When you go, leave room for towering slice of Carrot Cake or Chocolate Tort.
While you can order to-go food online or have it delivered via Uber Eats (
If you’re not a fan of beer, a selection of wine, cider, Prosecco, and Mom Water are available alternatives. Although they don’t serve food, it’s common to see a food truck parked outside or you can bring your own food to enjoy in the taproom.
Next door, 
The town’s largest mural, painted by artist Jacob Cromer, is located at Johnson Drive and Neiman Road and it’s not to be missed.
For more travel inspiration, read my bonus suggestions for exploring town: 
I loved the concept of adding my selection of condiments from the Keep It Saucey station, adding pico de gallo and hot sauce to my heaping mound of nachos.
Whether you’re visiting Casa Mariachi for a lunch or dinner date or watching soccer while devouring a scrumptious meal, the festive vibe and menu selections deliver a party vibe
At lunchtime, stepping into 
At lunchtime, stepping into 
One wouldn’t expect to discover authentic Cajun and Creole food served in Missouri, but then they haven’t dined at 
Start the day at 
At dinnertime, 
BONUS: Read the rest of my list of favorite spots in Olathe 
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Cocktail enthusiasts should make a reservation at 
BONUS: While you’re in town, use this 
For lunch, soup and sandwiches like the Gobble-Gobble or the Roast Beef Explosion are popular choices at 
Pasta fans will feel at home dinging at 
BONUS: Discover more things to do and see in historic Leavenworth 
There is a reason they refer to the town as “Manhappening,” a sensibility you come to understand quickly.
From dining and cocktail lounges to exploring the outdoors and touring museums, there is more than enough to do. Choose your fun using my 
I typically order a Combo Plate (Pick 2) for lunch or dinner; however, the Wood-Fired Grilled Salmon Salad and Smoked Brisket Nachos are calling my name. If you have room for dessert, a mega-sized slice of carrot cake is a shareable treat.
BONUS: I haven’t written a travel post about Overland Park yet. In the meantime, enjoy 
Kids of all ages will appreciate watching oy trains overhead deliver food to each table at 
BONUS: Spending the weekend in Shawnee? Use my 
Are you looking for a Kansas City suburb that didn’t make this list? It’s on my dining bucket list. Stay tuned for more foodie adventures on my 
