Whether it's a Girls Getaway to Kansas City you're looking to plan, or a Girls Weeknd It in your hometown of KC, this city has you and your gal pals covered! It goes without saying that it would be impossible to say this guide would cover each and every individual's interests and styles, BUT this is my personal guide to some of my favorite hot spots that I, i.e. @kansascitybucketlist, would recommend for a *guaranteed* good time!
From Bachelorette parties to family escapes, celebrating a girlfriend's birthday or a daughter's engagement; whatever the case may be, sometimes you just need some boujee, ultra-feminine and uber girly QT to elevate your time in the city!
So here it 'tis. This is my personal list of can't miss experiences to peruse for a girls getaway into and all around Kansas City, and will surely make your job as a host/hostess/friend/bestie a breeze, leaving all the memories to be made and the stories to be carried on (OR left behind)!
See MORE Local KC Guides HERE!
Brunch
Snooze Eatery
Breakfast burritos the size of your head, tacos toppling over with hash browns and scrambled eggs, barbacoa, avocado, and green Chile hollandaise, and about 1001 additional items to choose from make @snoozeameatery worth waking up for. Colorado-born, Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, is known for its irresistible menu creations, like Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes and Smashed Avocado Eggs Benny. (Westport + Overland Park)
Messenger Coffee
This bright, airy 3-story Crossroads space in the 100-year-old, 16,000 square foot historic building (so large, they have a map to guide you) serves up locally made coffee and specialty drinks, pastries, and artisanal bread served in the form of toasts, sandwiches, and sides of bowls and soups. Dine al fresco on the fireplace-accented rooftop deck with downtown city views or inside with sun rays pouring through with insight into all baking and roasting intricacies! (Crossroads + Plaza)
Caffetteria
This "slow fast food" cafe is a stunning, mid-century aesthetic where lovers of made-from-scratch, healthy food can dine on divine dishes like Polynesian poke bowl, house roasted rotisserie chicken, Thai salad, oven-fired pizzas, and home-made spreads and sauces. A La Marzocco espresso machine brews up coffee to kick-start your day. Kombucha on tap, adult cocktails, locally made artisan gifts available for purchase in the marketplace, family recipes made from scratch, and the #1 philosophy driving it all; family first! (Prairie Village)
Cocktails + Wine
Percheron Rooftop Bar
An obvious inclusion for "The 15 BEST Rooftop Bars in the U.S" according to Conde Nast Traveler, and a VERY glaring YES to local Kansas City Cocktail and Entertainment aficionados: Percheron at Crossroads Hotel is the perfect outdoor rooftop social setting for breezy and soaring city views. The hip and urban Crossroads Hotel gives an evening out to remember complete with an airy elevation, gorgeous city views, and crave-able craft cocktails! (Crossroads Arts District)
KC Wine Co.
With its photogenic atmosphere and its accessible escape from the city, this boutique winery, sitting on 40 acres of grape and farmland, hosts a variety of monthly events. Peaceful, yet happenin', this destination is marked by its charming half-barrel shaped tasting room surrounded by lush green vineyards, tree-covered live music sets, and super-sized Adirondack chairs overlooking the on-property pond. Sample multiple local wine varieties, bites, and their famous wine slushies! (Olathe)
Amigoni Winery
KC's only "urban winery" is located in the magnificently restored Daily Drover Telegram newspaper building dating back to 1909 in the Stockyards District. Join a Tour & Barrel Tasting and sip on over a dozen wine varieties in Amigoni's two-story tasting room as you nosh on delish exclusively-made Farm to Market Bread parmesan cheese crackers. Stay bar-side or head into the mezzanine to play board-games, and, while you cannot walk the vineyards growing the grapes (located 30 miles east of KC), you can enjoy one of the very first urban wineries in the country! (West Bottoms)
Verdigris
South KC's most elevated and rich cocktail lounge within the gorgeous grounds of Park Place is Verdigris; the “younger, sexy brother due to his Gatsby vibe” bar to The Monarch Bar on the Plaza. Shareable small plates, like Smoked Popcorn, Roasted Garlic + Chili Gnocchi, and Italian Grilled cheese matched with light, rich, and classic cocktails, such as the Rockafeller Spritz, Polynesian, or The Green Lion make this experience one not to miss in the heart of Johnson County! (Leawood)
Mean Mule Distilling
In the words of the most simplistic lyrical song of all time, "TEQUILA!" With a MEAN sense of style and an even meaner kick to their locally #KCMade American Agave Spirit, Mean Mule is made for tequila aficionados (or aspiring) to lounge inside or out, with cocktails like the “Gold Fashioned” and “Coppertone.” Soak up the bohemian vibes inside the Tasting Room or the alleyway murals to spice up your experience! (Crossroads Arts District)
Ca Va
A truly French respite, Ca Va is the only Champagne bar in KC, ranked one of the top wine bars in the nation, and is unpretentious, cozy, and an every day bar for anyone who appreciates spirits. They are impressively knowledgeable in their offerings for bubbles and small bites. It is a mere 700 square feet, candlelit and decorated with sophisticated bottles, strung corks, and chic rustic decor alongside a charming garden patio that offers the likes of duck fat kettle corn, pickled deviled eggs, pomme frites with mouth-watering aioli...and of course a classic...cheese plates and charcuterie boards! (Westport)
The Monarch Bar
When it comes to luxurious ambiance and beautifully crafted cocktails, this is KC's finest. The Monarch's gray velvet, white-marble, abstract-walled, and 1000+ acrylic butterfly-accessorized space boasts a cocktail list that is wildly impressive to the palate. Sip on the likes of sugar-rimmed, smoke-filled whiskey concoctions before moving onto cold brew coffee, vanilla bourbon creations, and snack on crispy seasoned chickpeas and grilled cheese skewers dipped in tomato soup. The Parlour Room offers a private bartender by reservation only, and the chic street level terrace is a seasonal vibe you can't miss! (Plaza)
SoT
SoT (South of Truman, and "drunkard" as defined by Olde 15th Century British English) offers an eclectic vibe with clever cocktail names (think Ghostface Painkillah and The Day After Amaro), seasonal small plates, and a hot pink hue that complements the original existence dating back to 1909, which positions SoT as both "gritty and glamorous." Don't miss out on enjoying a "garden party" cocktail in their (heated) back patio! For an extra fun night, check out Record Bar across the street for upcoming shows to start or end your night with! (Crossroads)
Aubrey Vineyards
The Vineyard Tasting Room showcases Napa-like wine tasting experiences in a relaxing wine bar atmosphere. Over 15 well-crafted wines are available for tastings or by the glass. Choose between a 3 or 5 wine tasting session. Guests enjoy all this with an expansive vineyard view. The Vineyard Tasting Room offers a hand-selected gourmet charcuterie menu of sharable meats, cheeses, crackers, hummus and nuts. Other light bite items and sweet treats are available as well.
Shopping
Country Club Plaza
Local boutiques, department stores, high-end to niche, the Plaza offers a wealth of local shopping to cherish. Nickel & Suede offers lightweight earrings, jewelry, and gifts. RE: offers vintage, antique, farmhouse, and urban-inspired home decor. Made in KC offers locally made goods by Kansas City area artisans, creators, and makers. 3DHQ offers 3D figurines, cake toppers, and more. Charlie Hustle offers vintage-inspired sportswear apparel. (Plaza)
Historic West Bottoms
The Historic West Bottoms and Stockyards District brings a level of character unlike any other with a revival that is an experience, particularly on First Friday Weekends of every month. Bella Patina offers vintage and handmade items from hundreds of vendors. Hatch + Home offers interior design and retail finds. Fetch Gifts, Serendipity, Ugly Glass & Co,. Hammerpress, The Painted Sofa, Normal Human, and more make this a haven for vintage shopaholics. (Stockyards District)
Downtown Overland Park
Experiencing a growth spurt like no other, this downtown corridor in the heart of the suburbs is quaint, charming, and full of a gorgeous variety of destinations. The General Store & Co. offers "modern day mercantile" gifts and funny finds. Ensemble offers refined and inspired styles for the female-minded. Strang Hall is the perfect spot for an elevated, yet fast casual lunch or cocktail. The Culinary Center offers cooking classes and a kitchen shop. The Tasteful Olive, Teal Lotus, The Upper Crust and Traditions Furniture make up several more must hit spots! (Overland Park)
Brookside
One of Kansas City's original, most alluring neighborhoods is a darling spot for a stroll. History, style, flavor, and more make up the corners of this local favorite. Shop @shopladyco for refined, timeless, and sophisticated styles for all shapes and sizes. The Corner Candleshop offers hand-poured candles and accessories to enhance and warm the home. A store named STUFF offers an artistic lifestyle line of artisan gifts. World's Window, The Fiddly Fig, and more round out this afternoon of shopping! (Brookside)
Overland Park Farmer's Market + City Market
Soak in all things food, scenery, sweets, establishments, local and GLOBAL culture amongst the wealth of beautiful vendors. Feast al fresco on any number of food vendors, shop the market’s most vibrant florists’ bundles during Farmers Market days, and shop local merchants for sweet dog treats, jams and jellies, spirits, accessories, vintage finds, teas, spices, and more. It's an exquisite Midwest cultural hub for a spin around the globe right here in KC! (River Market)
Entertainment
Voler - Thieves of Flight
A ‘Performance Ensemble & Aerial Academy’ housed in a uniquely converted 1917 Russian Orthodox Church turned studio, give aerial silks a go amongst the 20-foot ceilings and spiritual rays of sunshine pouring through the former congregational windows. Specialized classes are offered throughout the week, held by professional instructors with a passion for aerial dance and acrobatics. Choose from disciplines focused on aerial silks, hammock, hoop, straps, trapeze, ringlet, swings, carousel, and net, and select from beginner to advanced courses! (Kansas City, KS)
Bull Creek Distillery
One of South KC’s BEST experiences, Bull Creek Distillery a sprawling and gorgeous destination complete with their own distilled bourbon and Pilsner style beer and delicious cocktails. Try a Bull Creek Old Fashioned or perhaps “Home Wrecker” seems more your style; play some yard games under the Spring Hill Sky and festively lit landscape, and check the rotating calendar for live music to soak up an amazing day or night along the banks of Bull Creek. (Spring Hill)
Wonder & Whimsy Events
Owner Sara helps party hosts that are seeking an authentic and memorable experience by renting out unique tents, furnishings, and decor so that they may submerge themselves and their guests in visually stunning surroundings. Plan a girl's outing with a luxury picnic, luxury rooftop picnic, backyard bell tents and open-air tipis, and more.
Dance Fit Flow
Dance Fit Flow is a first-of-its-kind dance studio for adults only. From hip-hop and tap to barre and ballet, every class is designed to make you feel strong, encouraged, and empowered. Dance Fit Flow is locally and women-owned!
Lunch
Billie's Grocery
This gorgeous, west coast-vibin’ experience with its Spanish style exterior and crisp white and black, open air concept is an escape into healthy and beautiful food heaven. See “lazy” in the name; find immediate solace in the Lazy Sushi Bowl. No dairy, no gluten, just sashimi grade tuna, brown rice, quinoa, seaweed, nori, edamame, avocado, ginger, coriander, kimchi, cabbage, lazy poke sauce, sesame oil & sesame seed; one of many incredible All Day dishes preceding photo worthy sweet treats and an ambiance for the best of ‘em! (Midtown)
True Food Kitchen
The science behind their "conscious nutrition without sacrificing flavor" is in EVERY organic detail t/o the restaurant's overall concept, from the vegetables to the chairs. Organically grown and sourced produce (with their own proprietary tomato farm, mind you), recycled bottles made into chairs, carefully sourced global proteins, and more; the bright and airy ambiance will serve you happiness in and of itself. Cocktails, juice drinks, pizzas, apps, entrees, and desserts, oh my. Get on with yo’ green self and be true to your health! (Plaza)
Iron District
Shipping containers are all the rage for hanging out in, on top of, and around, and this hot spot in North KC hosts the multi-colored 18-container destination to eat, drink, shop, and relax at, and is the latest incubator for new concepts = it's an outdoor food hall. With an alfresco platform for live music and social gathering and a variety of delicious eats, drinks, retailers, the Iron District is a great base for a modern day, industrialized experience! (North KC)
Happy Hour + Dinner
Bristol Seafood + Steak + Social
An exquisite spot with one gorgeously lush patio overlooking the heart of 14th St, and a cosmopolitan yet laid back interior, Bristol S+S+S kicks up the experience with surf & turf plates and an upbeat lounge element. It's a hot spot destination for downtown happy hour, as well as weekend brunch, and even lunch with the kids.Try the likes of the Crispy Rice Sushi w. Spicy Tuna or the Oysters Rockefeller paired with a Boba Bubbly Prosecco Cocktail or the Every Rose Has Its (Rosa) Tequila w/ Lime Juice! (Downtown)
Fox and Pearl
A “Midwestern Bistro in the Westside,” is led by the outstanding Chef/Owner Vaughn Good; a James Beard Foundation nominated ‘Best Chef in the Midwest.' The refined and exquisite seasonally available menu is beautifully prepared and served in this former 20th-century drug store and devised as a multi-level dining and drinking establishment complete with a back patio and lower-level lounge. With midcentury modern design touches and pops of bold green throughout, Fox and Pearl is one of the most satiating local culinary experiences to be had! (Westside)
Brookside Barrio
Sit patio-side, sip on salted margaritas, and jam out to Reggae vibes floating through the beach-themed kitchen. The food and drink selections mirror authentic Oaxacan cuisine, bringing coastal Mexican ingredients and food preparations. You must try the loaded queso...creamy melted cheese topped with house-made chorizo, guacamole, and corn relish paired with light and crispy seasoned corn tortilla chips. Wash your street tacos, tortas, or any can't-go-wrong traditional dish down with a La Patrona, consisting of the Barrio Barrel Select Alejo Tequila w/ Patron Citronage on the fire-lit, light strung patio! (Brookside)
Spa & Relaxation
Radiant Skin & Beauty
With the knowledge we have now about fundamental skincare, and the great lengths people are going to reverse time on our faces, this beautiful, intimate, and sophisticated spa treats clients with exponential care as they offer massages, skin care, medical treatments, eyelash tints and curls and more. Get pampered while getting relaxed and beautified with these utterly divine services! (Leawood)
The Elms Hotel & Spa
Nestled inside the beautiful 130-year-old Excelsior Springs hotel, treat yourselves to the spa's amenities, like a hydrotherapy bath, a deep tissue massage, and a bout in the Roman bath-like Grotto, soaking up the sights, sounds, and sensations of the steam room, sauna, exfoliating salts, steam shower, and pool. The Spa is Kansas City's largest in the vicinity, and each month they introduce new and unique treatments. Make a weekend out of a visit, or simply make a day out of the spa grounds! (Excelsior Springs)
Sunlight Day Spa
Specializing in health & wellness and offering a collection of purification services for the mind and body, Sunlight's unique sauna therapy coupled with your classic spa services offers a relaxation and recovery technique in which your body advantageously absorbs radiated heat farther below the skin than traditional saunas or the basic warm bath. Detoxify, purify, and energize your body with Sunlight's foot soak, snacks, and fabulous spa and sauna treatments! (Overland Park)
