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Taco Trail

7 Ways To Explore Culture in Kansas City, Kansas

November 17, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Visit Kansas City Kansas sponsored this post in partnership with Midwest Travel Network. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Kansas City, Kansas, offers visitors an abundance of cultural experiences because of its diverse community. Immigrants journeyed to the heart of America, looking for a future for themselves and their families. The city’s cultural traditions and food scene are rich with heritage. Plan an overnight stay to take advantage of authentic experiences, from following The Legacy Trail to feasting on flavorful food.

I visited the city with a group of travel writers to the area to experience the city’s culture first-hand. How many of the following experiences will you check off the list?

mural

1. VOLER – THIEVES OF FLIGHT

If you’ve witnessed aerial acrobatics and wondered if you were capable of such feats, Voler – Thieves of Flight (558 Lowell Ave.) is your chance to find out. Part of the Eastern European Journey, the academy teaches students a combination of aerial dance and acrobatics using ceiling-suspended silks. Located in a one-time Russian Orthodox Church, instructors guide students step-by-step through maneuvers to lift themselves into the air.

voler instructor
The facility was once a Greek Orthodox women’s church with a speakeasy in the basement that served vodka.
voler
Members of our group listen to the instructor walk them through the steps of aerial acrobatics. “The weight of your leg will carry you over if you let it.”

Although I had to sit out during the class, I watched as my travel friends warmed up by stretching and conducting breathing exercises. Soon, they were standing with colorful silk fabric in hand learning the basics of foot locks and climbing. It was a major test of strength and flexibility.

Do you think you’ve got what it takes to test your balance and core strength? Voler – Thieves of Flight Voler offers private group classes and ongoing classes on a weekly basis. To sign up for an Aerial Silks session, click here.

2. VIETNAM CAFÉ

Vietnam Café (39324 Rainbow Blvd) is the story of success. The new location opened its doors on May 2022 to serve loyal customers heaping bowls of pho, curry, and rice platters. I ordered a large bowl of piping hot pho with beef without hesitation. It arrived with a side plate of Thai basil and sprouts to add to the pho at my discretion.

pho
Pho is a broth-based soup with noodles, protein, and vegetables.

Our table’s conversation was lively between bites of shared appetizers and dinner entreés. I learned that Vietnamese families represent a large portion of the community having immigrated to the area at the end of the Vietnam War. Further study taught me that Vietnamese refugees to the American Great Plains sought manufacturing or other jobs in Kansas City.

I encourage you to dine at Vietnam Café to try a food you’ve never tried while learning more about the culture. View the restaurant’s Facebook page for details.

3. Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop

I can’t think of a better way to start a day of exploring Kansas City, Kansas than dining at a locally-owned coffee shop. Oh, wait! Yes, I can. Add authentic tamales and it’s way better. Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop (925 Southwest Blvd) is a quaint eatery specializing in homemade meat and vegan tamales paired with gourmet coffee drinks.

three bees pottery and coffee shopIf you’ve not enjoyed tamale, you can expect shredded chicken, pork, or beef in sauce wrapped in masa inside a corn husk. The dish is representative of traditional food brought to the states by Mexican immigrant populations. Masa is a soft dough made from ground corn that takes on a slightly sweet yet savory flavor.

tamales
The new owners of Three Bees Pottery and Coffee Shop celebrated the business’s one-year anniversary in September 2022.

potteryI 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 interior of the cafe 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.

View the coffee shop’s hours and menu via its Facebook page.

4. The Legacy Trail

Visit Kansas City created The Legacy Trail, a mapped-out journey used for self-guided audio tours throughout the city. At each location, users of the app simply tap the screen to play back narrated stories that explain the site’s cultural significance. Latino, Eastern European, Black Heritage, Indigenous People, and Modern Immigrants are referenced on the trail.

Kansas City’s agricultural roots are recognized by statues located in the city’s West Bottoms neighborhood. Stockyards Brewing Co. is a sought-after steakhouse and taproom in the area.

To access The Legacy Trail, visit this website. Complete all five journeys and you can win a KCK t-shirt and your name will be included on the KCK Legacy Trail Wall of Fame.

Our group visited the Central Avenue Betterment Association (CABA) (1303 Central Ave.) Anthology of Argentine Mural, and Eagles Nest. At CABA, we learned how a small staff works diligently with the help of community sponsors to support diverse and inclusive programs and events like the Day of the Dead Celebration. On the day of our visit, staff member and volunteers hurriedly prepared for the Dia De Los Muertos parade. A makeup artist was on-hand to apply face paint to Catrinas who planned to walk in the parade. day of the dead makeup artistWhen our bus stopped at the Anthology of Argentine Mural (30th & Woodland), my jaw dropped open in shock. The massive mural is a city block long and uses vivid imagery to tell the tale of the Argentine neighborhood and its history. The narrative story sets the scene complete with natural sounds like railroad trains, industrialization, and rainfall. Its imagery will give you pause and like me, may evoke an emotional response.

mural
The mural was painted by seven artists over three months.

muralWe drove to a historic two-story stone building near railroad tracks and a baseball field, which has served as the headquarters for American Legion Post 213 “Eagles Nest” since the 1940s.stone buildingThe 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.

5. Jarocho’s Pescados y Mariscos

Continue the cultural journey to a cozy spot where high-quality Mexican seafood is served, Jarocho’s (719 Kansas Ave.). You can’t miss the building’s brightly painted facade featuring murals with ocean scenes.

seafood dinner
Jarocho’s is known for serving Pacific-style Mexican seafood.

JarochoIt’s a hidden gem, or the kind of restaurant locals know and dare not tell others about because then 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.restaurant decor

6. Day of the Dead Celebration

Dia De Los Muertos translated to Day of the Dead is a time of celebration for the Latino community in Kansas City, Kansas. The day remembers friends and family members who have died and the life they lived. In fact, the Mexican holiday dates back hundreds of years.

catrinas groupIt’s one of the most festive celebrations I’ve attended. Vendors line both sides of Central Avenue offering the best in gifts and authentic Mexican food dinners. The smell of freshly grilled meat lingers in the air.bikesAs you walk 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.catrinasI was asked if I wanted to ride in the parade inside a decorated bus that played authentic music (see pictured). “Yes, of course!” From the bus, we threw candy to eager children 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.bus

7. URBAN HIKE THROUGH STRAWBERRY HILL & DOWNTOWN KCK

The following morning, our group enjoyed coffee and pastries at Splitlog Coffee Co. (548 Central Ave.) before meeting our Urban Hikes KC tour guide. The plan? To walk a 4.5-mile hike through the city’s Eastern European neighborhood along the Legacy Trail and learn about the immigrants who founded businesses and churches in the area.

Strawberry Hill Mural
This mural features Strawberry Hill’s founder, Mathias Splitlog, a Wyandotte Indian who arrived in 1843. He was an entrepreneur who established the first flour mill. Fun Fact: He spoke seven languages.

The guided tour is the best way to explore the city’s history while learning in-depth historical facts about each destination. While the route may be long, the pace is moderate and there are only a couple of steep streets – and it offers some of the best views of the Kansas City skyline.

An Urban Hikes KC tour guide discussed
JT Daniels, a local artist, painted the mural on the side of The Merc. During the urban tour, the guide addressed the difference between a “food desert” and a “food swamp.”

From Russian Hill to Strawberry Hill and downtown Kansas City to the Wyandotte Native American National Burial Ground, the guide highlights the stories of ethnic groups. It is the most effective way to learn about the city’s culture.

Why is the neighborhood called Strawberry Hill? After the great flood of 1903, residents of the area discovered strawberries growing on the hill. The fruit is also considered sacred to the Wyandotte tribe people.

A number of churches were erected during the time of European immigration to the area. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, built in 1890, is the oldest Catholic parish in Kansas City. At present day, it is a parish that is known for its cultural diversity. A community-driven garden sits in its shadow where fruits and vegetables are grown and donated to residents.

community garden
Actor Eric Stonestreet, originally from Kansas City, donated the windmill to the project. He is best known for his appearance on the TV show, Modern Family.

I appreciate learning about the hard-working families who made the location what it is today, including the Loose Brothers who opened the Takhoma Biscuit Company. The name was updated to Sunshine Biscuit Company in 1946 and was considered the largest bakery in the city. Keebler eventually bought it, and now it is owned by Kellogg’s.

Did you know that 85% of the world’s Cheez-It crackers are produced in Kansas City?

Time permitting, you should plan extra time to take a guided tour of Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center (720 N. 4th St.) where you can learn about the ethnic groups that settled in the area. Each room of the mansion built in 1887 tells the story of the city’s earliest residents. Note: You can buy tickets to the Olde World Christmas Tour during the holidays.

St. John’s Park, across the street from the museum, has a top-notch view of the city’s skyline. Bring your dog! A grassy area is dedicated to four-legged family members.

I have no doubt that you’ll appreciate Kansas City’s traditions and food scene as much as I did. To truly get to know a place, you have to understand its history. Of course, these seven cultural experiences merely scratch the surface of Kansas City’s can’t-miss destinations. Endless learning awaits. Kansas City ViewTake a moment to downtown The Taco Trail app and The Legacy Trail app created by Visit Kansas City, Kansas prior to your visit. Let this guide and the mobile apps help you enjoy an immersive cultural tour of the city – an unforgettable experience.

If you appreciated this post, you may also want to check out a second blog post “Essential Stops in Kansas City, Kansas” that features more attractions, restaurants, and notable shopping destinations.

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: aerial dance, church, culture, Day of the Dead, downtown, European, hike, history, Kansas City, Latino, Legacy Trail, mexican, Midwest, mural, pho, pottery, railroad, seafood, stockyard, Strawberry Hill, Taco Trail, tamales, urban, Vietnamese, walking tour, Wyandotte

Essential Stops in Kansas City, Kansas

December 21, 2021 by Vanessa Whiteside Leave a Comment

Disclosure: Kansas I-70 Association sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Kansas City, Kansas is a go-to destination for culturally diverse attractions, big-city shopping, and restaurants worthy of the all-star status. At the final stop on my Kansas I-70 road trip, I was eager to search out the top things to do in the city.

BREAKFAST

HANA’S DONUTS

Hana’s Donuts (2131 S. 34th St.) is tucked away in a neighborhood just waiting to be discovered by donut die-hards. Entering the parking lot, I saw one customer after another exit with boxes of goodies. The smell of donuts filled the air.

Inside, a family with several kids ordered a big box of donuts. Each child pointed at their choice. “I want the one with sprinkles!” the youngest boy exclaimed. Before their order was complete, the dad added “and a dozen of the cinnamon bites, please.”

The display case was filled with every kind of donut you could imagine. Apple fritters the size of your hand. Blueberry cake donuts. Cinnamon rolls. And classics like maple long johns and old fashion crullers.

The woman behind the counter the added two donuts to my to-go bag and thanked me for coming into the bakery for the first time. She (and the owner) had worked since 8pm the night before to prepare donuts. Wow!

When you visit Hana’s Donuts, order a dozen donuts and save 10%. Don’t leave without adding a few cinnamon bites to the bag for good measure. With only one table inside the bakery, customers often take their order to go. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, check the bakery’s hours before making a trip.

LODGING

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT KANSAS CITY AT THE LEGENDS

Located across the parking lot from some of the best shopping in the area, Residence Inn by Marriott Kansas City at The Legends (1843 Village West Pkwy) provides all of the comforts want from a hotel and more because it’s designed for the extended-stay traveler. They offer studio, one and two-bedroom suites.

My one-bedroom suite was bigger than some of my college apartments. The layout was incredible! Unlike typical hotel rooms, this one had a full kitchen with large appliances, a living room with a workstation, a separate bedroom with a full closet, and an oversized bathroom. After months on the road traveling to Kansas towns, I was happy to discover a hotel room that felt like home. The rest of the hotel’s amenities were equally as nice. Every morning, guests enjoy a full complimentary breakfast adjacent to the lobby. For those not staying for a morning meal, a self-serve coffee bar is available just beyond the spacious lobby.

Although the hotel had an indoor pool and fitness equipment on-site, I opted to get my exercise by walking directly across the street to The Legends Outlets for a little retail therapy. If you choose to stay at the hotel, I know you’ll find it impressive. To search for available rooms and rates, visit the website.

ATTRACTIONS

LEGENDS OUTLETS KANSAS CITY

Did you know that Legends Outlets Kansas City is one of the state’s top tourist attractions? People drive from miles around to shop brand-name stores for mega-deals in the area known as Village West. Adidas, Ann Taylor, Nike, and Under Armour are a small sampling of the store you can expect. With over 100 outlets, retail shops, and dining options, it’s no wonder the Legends Outlets is always buzzing with people.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor sculptures and public art displays at almost every turn. As you wind your way around the complex, you’ll notice that each one pays homage to legendary Kansans who made their mark in history. The courtyards and corridor showcase the stories of Amelia Earhart, Clyde Cessna, and Buster Keaton.

In fact, if you happen to have someone in your group that doesn’t prefer shopping, they can easily be entertained by walking the grounds and learning about the movers and shakers who made Kansas what it is today. A yellow brick road gives a nod to the Wizard of Oz while native grasses surround towering sculptures.

At Christmas time, the annual lighting of the holiday tree in the center of the courtyard brings hundreds to the area. Families can follow the event with a movie night at AMC Theatre Legends 14. The movie theatre includes 14 screens and one of them is four stories tall with a VIP balcony lounge. Later, the family can head to Santa’s Mail Station to drop the kids’ letters to the North Pole.

The 45-foot Christmas tree is synchronized to music. Covered in 2,000 ornaments and colorful lights, it’s the center showpiece during the holiday season.

CABELA’S 

Shopping at Cabela’s (10300 Cabela Dr.) is an adventure for the entire family. Heck, even the family dog is welcomed in the store. Located a short driving distance from the outlet mall, Cabella’s carries gear, cookware, and clothing for those who like to spend time outdoors.

Aside from racks and shelves filled with the latest outdoor gear, the retail store is filled with taxidermy including the world’s largest collection of trophy mule deer.

Walking through the store is like going on a safari. Side rooms showcase towering elephants flanked by big cats and antelope. A pedestrian bridge in the store covers a pond of koi fish at the base of an indoor waterfall. Kids love identifying fish at the oversized aquarium. Couples stop to take selfies with statuesque animals.

The second floor of the retail store is where deal hounds need to shop. Clothing and shoes labeled with end-of-the-year deep discounts on outdoor equipment are found in the Blowout Sale Room. If you’re looking for a new coat, pair of boots, or flannel shirt that is slightly out of season, you’ll find it here.

As I was exiting the salesroom, I heard a familiar sound “Ho ho ho, big guy! Do you like candy canes?” It was Santa! He was greeting children waiting in line with their parents to have their photo taken with the jolly fellow. Cabela’s is known for hosting events like this one, so be sure to check their Facebook page for more information before planning your visit.

HOLLYWOOD CASINO AT KANSAS SPEEDWAY

The sound of the slot machines and the dealers calling cards entices visitors to try their luck at Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway (777 Hollywood Casino Blvd). Gamblers sit in front of 2,000 reel and video slot machines hoping for a jackpot.

I noticed dozens of table games including roulette and craps. Walking through the casino, it was easy to find a game to play. The 12-table Poker Room was bustling. Prefer video poker? Pull up a chair and inside your casino card to start a game.

With access to several bars and restaurants, casino players can satisfy their cravings for a delicious meal between gameplay. Final Cut Steakhouse’s menu offers fine dining selections and they promote meal deals during the holidays. What could be better than celebrating a jackpot with a steak dinner and a cocktail?

LUNCH

EL TORO LOCO MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

It was lunchtime and because I was hanging around The Legends Outlets area, I decided to give El Toro Loco (1706 Village Park West) a try. Specializing in street tacos, tamales, and other Mexican dishes, it’s a ideal choice for tourists who need a break from shopping.

A friendly bartender greeted me and served up a heaping bowl of chips with salsa and an ice-cold Corona. The menu has more entree choices on it than you can imagine, and by the looks of the plates in front of diners around the restaurant, the portions were going to be massive.

When I have a food craving, there isn’t any denying it. I created a combination meal consisting of a chile relleño and a taco with rice and refried beans. I’ve ordered chile relleños in many places and I know a good one when I taste it. The cheese was delicious and the battered and fried pepper was perfectly crisp.

The restaurant’s setting was colorful and vibrant from the plates to the decor on the walls. TVs surrounded the bar area allowing patrons to watch the game at any time. About eight varieties of tequila bottles lined the back of the bar. The bartender stayed busy filling the margarita machine with fresh-made mix (he makes about 20 gallons a day!).

If you’re planning a visit to the area, take a look at the restaurant’s Facebook page for advertised promotions on menu selections like Taco and Margarita Tuesday when hard shell tacos are 99 cents and jumbo margaritas are $4.99.

ATTRACTIONS

ROWE RIDGE VINEYARD & WINERY

As a Kansan, I’m still amazed that the state produces incredible wine considering the extreme weather we often experience in the Midwest. I was impressed with Rowe Ridge Vineyard & Winery (11255 Leavenworth Rd), a five-minute drive from my lunch stop. The tasting room offers vino enthusiasts a chance to sample flights of a large selection of wines (6 wines + logo glass $8).

Located on 10 acres, the tasting room is open Thursday-Sunday from 12pm-5pm or by appointment. Marc and Pame Rowe have operated the vineyard since 2005 and depend on volunteers to help them harvest grapes from over 3,000 vines. The first vineyard in Wyandotte County, they produce 9 varieties of hybrid and American native grapes.

My recommendation is to bring someone with you to the tasting room and each purchase a different flight so you can sample all of the wines. When in doubt, choose the dry to semi-sweet flight. Bottles range from $17-$18 and fruit wine bottles are $16. View the current list of wines available here.

DOWNTOWN AVENUE OF MURALS

The Kansas City metro area is known for its many murals. Each street art creation tells a story, and the ones I located downtown aka “Avenue of Murals” celebrate the history and culture unique to the area. Over 30 high school students were involved in the creation of some of them.

El Baile de la Vida (826 Minnesota Ave.) pictured below shows dancers in costumes representing 19 states. Look closely and you will recognize images of Mexican culture from Day of the Dead skeletons to La Virgen de Guadalupe.

Directly across the street, I spotted a gigantic mural depicting what appeared to be a laborer. Kansan Printer (901 N. 8th St.) is a mural highlighting a printer at a hand press to honor the workers of the Kansas City Kansan newspaper. The building it is painted on housed the newspaper plant for 80 years.

Before leaving the downtown area, I spied another beautiful mural worthy of a photo, Facing the Past, Looking Into the Future (751 Minnesota Ave.). It showcases the story of the modern and traditional Hmong culture by highlighting work, play, and celebration. The vibrant colors can’t be missed as you drive down Minnesota Avenue.

To view an online map of the Avenue of Murals Project and other street art finds including sculptures in the area, click this link. While you’re in the downtown area, consider dining along the city’s famous Taco Trail. There are 28 restaurants alone in the downtown corridor. Locals highly recommend Bonito Michoacan (1150 Minnesota Ave).

DINNER

My day of exploring Kansas City was coming to an end, but not before I made the drive to a restaurant locals consider one of the best in the city, Slap’s BBQ (533 Central Ave.). It seemed like everyone I knew had eaten there but me, so my visit was overdue.

The bbq joint is known for its ribs, serving perfectly charred but moist burnt ends, and a host of mouthwatering side dishes. They’ve been in the biz since the Pearce brothers began touring the barbecue competition circuit. The restaurant serves healthy portions of smoked meat to diners looking for authentic Kansas City bbq.

I took my place in line and waited about 20 minutes until it was my turn to order dinner. The outdoor seating area was filled with families, so I ordered a meat combo plate to go.

When I told the employee it was my first time at Slap’s BBQ, they added a pork rib to my dinner. “It’s one of our best meats, and you need to try it,” he said. Along with my burnt ends, I took his advice and ordered side dish helpings of baked potato casserole and bacon mac-n-cheese.

When in Kansas City, you simply must eat at Slap’s BBQ. Their award-winning barbecue continues to earn top honors at competitions. If that isn’t convincing enough then, the line winding out the door made up of out-of-towners and locals is proof enough. My meal was beyond delicious and I’ll most definitely be back to the Strawberry Hill neighborhood the next chance I get.

Kansas City, Kansas is where you go when you want to eat like the locals. It’s also a mecca for destination shopping, mural hunting, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Rich with history dating back to when Lewis & Clark arrived at Kaw Point in 1804 to today’s vibrant community, Kansas City is an urban area that quickly wins you over.

The next time I’m in the area, I plan to check out the historic farmstead Grinter Place, Cedar Hill Family Orchard, and if I get over my free of heights, Zip KC. Anyone want to join me?

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: barbecue, bbq, burnt ends, Cabella's, casino, donuts, doughnuts, Kansas, Kansas City, KCK, legends, Lewis & Clark, mexican, movie theater, murals, outdoor, outlet mall, retail, shopping, speedway, Strawberry Hill, street art, Taco Trail, tacos, urban, winery, Wynadotte

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Hello! I'm Vanessa. Welcome to One Delightful Life, a blog created to add more delight to your life with delicious recipes, travel destinations, and lifestyle improvement ideas. Thanks for exploring my blog!

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