With the KC Streetcar taking its virgin voyage south of Union Station next year, we figured it was high time to prepare any anxious travelers for the trip. No baggage needed.
This is the first installment of our newest series, where we’ll be walking you through what riders can find — food, fun, a little history — just steps from the eight soon-to-debut streetcar stops. Up first: UMKC, 51st and Brookside.
Travel back in time
By 1957, the last of Kansas City’s 25 trolley routes were decommissioned and paved over to make way for the mighty automobile. For decades, the only vestiges left of our public transit past was the Harry Wiggins Trolley Track Trail, a walking and bike path retracing 6.8 miles of former trolley track — a line that runs eerily parallel to the modern-day UMKC streetcar stop.
Grab a bite
Let’s imagine you didn’t just hop on. If you’ve made the long journey south, or you’re looking for a pre-trip pick me up, there are more than a few options for hungry travelers nearby.
- Pizza 51
- KIN LIN
- SPIN! Pizza
- Peanut on Main
- Andre’s
- Prime Sushi
- Third Street Social
- eggtc.
- Minsky’s Pizza
- Osteria Il Centro
- Axiois
- Bacaro Primo
Have a drink (or two)
There’s nothing wrong with a little liquid courage (or caffeinated courage) for your commute into the city.
- Crow’s Coffee
- The Fountain Room
- Underdog Wines
- Vita’s Wine Bar
Things to do
While a walk around the neighborhood is always recommended, we know some prefer a full itinerary of can’t-miss experiences.
- Harry Wiggins Trolley Trail
- Perfect Scents
- National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
- Linda Hall Library
- Crestwood Shops
- KC Rep Theater
Time to take your seats. After a change of conductor + brief reboarding, tune in next time for the second stop on our trip north: Plaza, at Cleaver II + Main.
