WyCo Lake is the perfect place for a casual — and scenic — woodland stroll. | Photo by the KCtoday Team.
Lace up your hiking boots, because we’ve compiled a hiking guide for the KC area with 12 routes and trails to help you plan your next adventure and experiencebreathtaking views.
Note: While parks and trails may be listed as open, we recommend checking Urban Trail Co. (the trail managers) visiting for further info and current trail conditions.
Swope is a staple for hiking in KC. Some trails like Rancho D’Lux are moderate, but the rocky + challenging Wudchuk Run trail will make you feel like you’re in the mountains — without the elevation.
Yes, like Hidden Valley Ranch. Yes, there’s a path called “Zesty.”
This loop (with optional offshoots) is a dirt path of mostly rolling ridges with a couple steep spots. It was opened as part of the city’s parkland expansion in the Northland and named for its deep, wooded valley that was previously “hidden” from the general public.
Crown Town Happy Hour | 4-7 p.m. | Boulevard Brewing Tours & Rec Center | Free entry | Be one of the first 100 fans in the door and receive a free BLVD + Royals pint glass, perfect for filling up on an evening of three brew debuts, amazing specials + meet-and-greets with Royals alumni.
Monday Night Jam Session | 7-10 p.m. | Blue Room | Free entry | Jazz up your Monday night with Chris Hazelton and special guest Emily Dix at this soulful sesh touting smooth tunes.
Tuesday, March 25
NAIA Men’s Basketball Championship | 7 p.m. | Municipal Auditorium | $6+ | Step away from your March Madness bracket and catch some live championship action as NAIA’s top teams battle it out on the hardwood.
Wednesday, March 26
Padel Learn to Play Social | 6-8 p.m. | La Casa del Padel | $10 | If you love pickleball, expand your courtside horizons by learning to play this clever cross between tennis and squash.
Intro to Whiskey and Cigars | 7-9 p.m. | The Shop Cigar Lounge, KCK | $30 | A match made in smoky heaven. Sip on J. Rieger & Co. selections while Master Tobacconist Danica Baird guides you through the perfect pairing — plus, your first cigar is on the house.
Thursday, March 27
KC Futures — March Coffee Connection | 9-10 a.m. | Opera House Coffee & Food Emporium | Free, RSVP | Whether you’re looking for professional connections or just a good convo, connect with KC’s movers and shakers at this caffeine-fueled meet up.
Live + Local: Kansas City Musician Showcase | 6-7 p.m. | Kansas City Public Library, Central Branch | Free, RSVP | Four local acts — Fritz and Sons, Jamogi & The Jammers, Jass, and Big Fat Cow — compete for a shot at NPR’s viral Tiny Desk Concert series.
Singles Social Hour KC (Ages 30-45) | 6-8 p.m. | Strang Hall, Overland Park | $30 | Mix, mingle, and make connections at this food hall featuring industrial chic digs and outdoor dining on a grassy lawn.
Wanda Sykes: “Please & Thank You Tour” | 7:30 p.m. | Music Hall Kansas City | $45+ | The Emmy-winning comic, writer, actress and producer is back on the road with fresh material and her signature wit.
$2.5 billion. That’s how much Kansas City just approved for its record-breaking 2025-26 fiscal year budget. Big winners include police officers, housing programs, and KCATA funding (avoiding predicted route cuts). Want to see where every dollar is going? Check out KCUR’s breakdown.
Sports
Wildcats, start celebrating. For the first time since 2002, K-State is Sweet 16 bound after a thrilling 80-79 overtime buzzer-beater against Kentucky. Next up? They’ll face the winner of No. 1 USC vs. No. 9 Mississippi State, and we’ll be watching.(ESPN)
Announced
With SPIN! just out the door, Martin City Brewing Co. has taken over the South Plaza spot at 4950 Main St. — its sixth metro location set + the debut of its Martin City Tavern concept. Expect a menu with more pub fare than its Pizza & Taps spots, plus the craft beer you know and love. (KCBJ)
Mansion Monday
With a tri-level circular staircase, every entrance is grand. A 5-bedroom, 10-bathroom old world-style estate is on the market in Leawood. Check out the 13,334-sqft home that is situated on a one-acre lot abutting a golf course and features an indoor pool and steam room, wood-paneled library, four fireplaces, and intricate parquet floors. (Kristin Malfer Compass Realty Group)
Development
Along with the construction of two new affordable apartment buildings in 18th & Vine, renovation is coming for the historic House of Hits building — once the home of Kansas City Monarchs team offices. The commercial space is currently being eyed for a new music venue. (Kansas City Star)
Drink
Happy National Cocktail Day, Kansas City. Just because it’s Monday doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate with a post-work drink — we recommend trying the KC Ranch Water at Mean Mule Distilling Co.
Edu
Climbing the corporate ladder for a C-suite spot? UMKC’s newly minted CEO Academy of Kansas City is now taking applications for its fall session. Learn from experienced execs and feel good knowing your tuition to the Henry W. Bloch School of Management program funds student scholarships. (Startland News)
Closing
After three years in downtown OP, The Old Mango is closing shop next month. In the meantime, locals can shop up to 50% off at the home goods store on everything from furniture to coffee table decor. (Kansas City Star)
Looking to save on groceries? Through March 31, new Sam’s Club Members can join for $25 — half off the regular price — plus get a free 16” pizza on their first visit.*
The Buy
The Buy
A set of really good kitchen shears. Cut meat, fish, vegetables, and more with these scissors designed with a heavy-duty blade, built-in fish scraper, steel compression spring, and non-slip handle.
If you caught our coverage of the hip HiFi lounge In the Lowest Ferns when it debuted last winter, you already know it’s a vibe. But if you haven’t stepped inside (or just can’t get enough), here’s your excuse: a pinch pottery class led by Audrey Jean Ceramics takes over the dancefloor tomorrow at 6 p.m.
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