We’re getting “Ready to Ride in 2025" with the fifth installment of our 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 next: Westport, 39th + Main.
Travel back in time
We’ve dissected our modern version’s connection to the Country Club streetcar line, but what about the track before the track before the track? Amid the growth and tumult of the late 1800s, Westport had the clunky-yet-charming Dodson “dummy” line — a steam-powered train muffled + disguised as a streetcar to keep, in part, from spooking horses. It rebranded as the Westport and Waldo Railroad in 1894, and the rest is smoggy, soot-covered history.
Grab a bite
If you’ve made the long journey south, or you’re looking for a mid-trip pick-me-up, there are more than a few options for hungry travelers nearby.
- Tailleur
- Haha’s Pizza Hub
- Island Spice
- Sama Zama
- Holy Brunch KC Brunch Bar
- Pinches Tacos
- Laney’s Get Down
- Char Bar
Have a drink (or two)
There’s nothing wrong with a little liquid courage (or caffeinated courage) for your commute into the city.
- Soli Deo Coffee & Bakery
- Sk8bar
- Kelly’s Westport Inn
- Tin Roof
- Offkey Karaoke Lounge & Suites
- Q Kansas City
- Chambre Coffee
- Mainstreet Tavern
- Side Kicks Saloon
Things to do
While a walk around the neighborhood is always recommended, we know some prefer a full itinerary of can’t-miss experiences.
- Nerd out over collectibles at Bubble Wrapp + Clint’s Comics or shop your next vintage grail at Gilded Chaos.
- Admire the sleepy shop dog at Mills Record Company while you browse new and used vinyls, music equipment + books.
- Take in a show tickling the ivories at Hammers Dueling Piano Bar or Upcycle Piano Craft.
- Browse kitchen supplies at Pryde’s Old Westport before sampling hand-crafted pies at Ashleigh’s Bake House in the back.
- See Santa Fe Trail history up close at the Harris-Kearney Historical House Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Got a favorite Wesport gem we should add to our map? Your hot tip might just make it into the next ride-along.
