The Kansas City area is known for a lot of things: barbecue, jazz, soccer, arts and culture. But if you look beyond the main attractions, you might be surprised by what the metropolitan area has been hiding in plain sight. Let this list of unexpected hidden gems inspire you to explore unique attractions scattered across these Kansas City destinations.
The Brewkery, 1443 Swift St, North Kansas City, MO Truly unique to North Kansas City, The Brewkery is a locally owned brewery that offers healthy artisanal kombucha (a fermented sweetened black or green tea drink that is slightly alcoholic, though The Brewkery does offer a non-alcoholic option as well). Kombucha is said to have many physical and mental health benefits and is a great source for gut-friendly probiotics. The Brewkery has a taproom where you can sample new flavors, fill up growlers, and order a kombucha flight! The brewer is called Lucky Elixir and they produce flavors like: Berry Blend, Hop'd Peach, Ginger Lime, and more! www.brewkery.com
Linden Square Ice Rink, 602 NE 70th St, Gladstone, MO Nestled in Gladstone's growing downtown center is Linden Square, an open air community space that transforms into a winter wonderland from November to February every year! Enjoy ice-skating Friday through Saturday for a minimal cost; rental skates of various sizes are available at the rink! Make sure to stop at this hidden gem before winter ends to make some new memories! www.lindensquare.info
Park Street Pastry, 103 E. Park Street, Olathe, KS
New pastry shop in downtown Olathe. Chef Doug Flick opened the shop and makes from scratch pastries, cakes, lunch entrees, and more. Park Street Pastry is also home to a traveling Barista, so come in and enjoy a fresh pastry, a hot latte, and explore downtown Olathe. www.parkstreetpastry.com
Spinning Earth Pottery, 102 S. Elm St, Gardner, KS
Hidden in the confines of the Dolphin Song building in historic downtown Gardner and across the street from the beloved Groundhouse Coffee, is one of the area’s premier pottery studios – Spinning Earth Pottery. Part gallery, part boutique - Spinning Earth Pottery sells everything from small custom pieces to signature works of art fit for any discerning art collector. Artist Danny Meisinger has been practicing his craft for over 20 years and now teaches on-site workshops for all skill levels. Once inside the Dolphin Song building, you’ll be surprised to find the Rosey Posey Chique Boutique, a trendy and fashionable shopping experience. Upstairs, get limber or sweat it out morning, noon or night with Diana Meisinger’s Sacred Spaces Yoga and Pilates Studio. The Meisinger’s are bringing fine art and fine living to Gardner, KS. 913-626-6028, www.spinningearthpottery.net/
Tim Murphy Art Gallery, 5701 Merriam Drive, Merriam, KS
Tucked away inside the historic community center on Merriam Drive is the Tim Murphy Art Gallery. This quaint space features monthly exhibits and annual juried art shows including the High School Visual Arts Competition and the Heartland Artist Exhibition. Located on the upper level, you’re invited to enjoy a peaceful afternoon perusing the art in downtown Merriam. www.merriam.org/artgallery
Art Gallery at Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th Pkwy, Lenexa, KS
The gallery hosts rotating art shows and highlights works created by local and regional artists. 913-477-7131, Learn More!
Lansing Lumber Farm & Feed, 211 N. Main St., Lansing, KS
If you are heading up Kansas Highway 73, check out Lansing’s hometown lumber store since 1966, Lansing Lumber Farm & Feed. They have premium exterior and interior construction materials for your home (avoid the chain stores, just like most of the area builders). The knowledgeable staff can help you with all of your decking, fencing and door/window replacement needs. Check them out on Facebook to see all of the awesome things they offer and do! www.lansinglumber.com
Sherry’s Country Fudge, 728 Cherokee, Leavenworth, KS
Located inside the Kansas Country Store in Historic Downtown Leavenworth. Sherry’s Country Fudge is homemade on site with only the finest ingredients, it is mouthwatering fudge at its best. They typically offer 12 flavors to choose from, some which vary with the season or holiday. 913-651-6761, www.kansascountry.com
Avenue of Murals, Downtown Kansas City, KS
Explore the colors of Kansas City, KS with a walking tour of the Avenue of Murals in downtown Kansas City, KS. Local artists joined forces to create eight colorful and vibrant murals in a four-block corridor along Minnesota Avenue in downtown, each depicting a different culture representing the city’s diversity. www.visitkansascityks.com