Things to Do

Take in the sights and sounds of this 15-block area with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or a gondola float on the adjacent Brush Creek. When the holidays roll around, the Plaza Lights are an eight-decade sensation and the annual Plaza Art Fair each fall presents the country’s top visual artists.

During the holiday season and all year long, dive deep into Kansas City's creative culture at the Made in KC Marketplace, where you can browse and buy from dozens of the area's local businesses. For adventure of another kind, watch for The Escape Game, coming to the neighborhood this fall.

Two nationally renowned art museums are located nearby, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Located on the campus of UMKC, the Kansas City Repertory Theatre is one of the best-kept secrets in the Midwestern theater scene, delighting local audiences and inspiring New York productions at the same time.

Where to shop

It’s been said, and bears repeating: no trip to Kansas City is complete without shopping on The Plaza. Local-vores will love Hallmark Gold Crown as well as Charlie Hustle—home to retro apparel such as T-shirts and wool hats—and Three Dog Bakery, which began in KC and now has locations around the globe, not to mention a gigantic menu of treats for man’s best friend.

Seasoned shoppers will find high-end labels like Michael Kors and Kendra Scott. For other retail tips, explore Visit KC's Plaza shopping guide.

Places to eat

Sidewalk cafes and patios on the Plaza just can’t be beat. See for yourself and rest your heels at local institutions like Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue (upscale smoky 'cue) and Gram & Dun (comfort food with creative drink pairings).

Rye features down-home favorites such as fried chicken and hand-selected steaks cooked over pecan and white oak, plus a killer weekend brunch. Other favorites include Kaldi's Coffee for caffeination and Shake Shack for craveworthy cheeseburgers.

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