We’re nearing the end of the line — literally. With the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension close to completion, we’re rolling out our second-to-last stop spotlight: Union Hill at 31st + Main. Here’s what to see, do, and taste within ~15 minutes of the platform.
The tower may soon see new life with new lights.
Photo by smallcurio via Flickr
Travel back in time
Hop off the stop and glance east to spot the cherry-red TV tower rising 1,042 ft — a Midtown landmark first used in 1956 for KCTV broadcasts and still active today, with Kansas City PBS at its base. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower (or as CBS once dubbed it, the “Eyeful Tower”), it even flashed weather alerts from 1970 to 2001, with upward lights signaling warmer temps and downward lights cooler ones.
Grab a bite
If you’ve made the long journey from our first stop, or you’re looking for a mid-trip pick-me-up, there are more than a few options for hungry travelers nearby.
- Gates Bar-B-Q
- The Russell
- Billie’s Grocery
- Orange by Devoured
- Noka
- Barrio Taqueria
- Cliff’s Taphouse
- The Fix
- Union on the Hill
Have a drink (or two)
With Martini Corner just a block away, consider it a sign to pause your trip for a well-earned sip (or two).
- Filling Station
- Tower Tavern
- Good Karma Coffee
- Ludo’s Shuffleboard Bar
- Brick House
Things to do
While a walk around the neighborhood is always recommended, we know some prefer a full itinerary of can’t-miss experiences.
- Start your day at the Zum Factory for a store packed with locally made, scent-sational goods.
- Stop by Under the Cover for romantic reads, then swing through Cherry Pit Collective for a peek into KC’s creative side.
- Grab a bite or keepsake at Browne’s Irish Marketplace, a 130-year-old family-run gem (and the oldest Irish business outside of Ireland).
Got a favorite Midtown gem we should add to our map? Your hot tip might just make it into the next ride-along.
