If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably scrolled through The New York Times’ “36 Hours in…” travel series and dreamed about hopping the next flight to wherever they’re writing about.
This is our take — a sort-of update to the original 2013 piece — perfect for sharing with out-of-towners or rediscovering your own backyard.
Friday
3 p.m. | Take it from the top
Start your weekend with sky-high views at the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Climb to the top of Liberty Memorial’s limestone tower for a panoramic look at downtown KC, then head inside for the museum’s powerful (and newly updated) exhibits. Before you go too far, stroll north to Union Station and take a moment under the 95-foot ceilings to appreciate one of KC’s grandest Beaux Arts spectacles.
6 p.m. | Rooftop dinner + drinks
There’s really no need to hop on the streetcar for this short of a walk, but we say do it anyway. Find yourself at Percheron, the rooftop bar atop Crossroads Hotel to savor golden hour with panoramic views, a spritz in hand, and small plates to split. Bonus: you’re walking distance from nightlife, including the Power & Light District + staples like Green Lady Lounge, if you’re not ready to call it.
7:30 p.m. | First Friday energy
If it’s the first Friday of the month, hit the streets to see local vendors, open galleries, street performers, and food trucks for an art crawl that turns into a citywide block party after dark. You’ll find your way to shuffleboard at Jim’s Alley Bar, if you know what’s good for you.
Saturday
9 a.m. | Brunch in the Westside
Soak up last night with a cozy “blunch” at The Westside Local, a neighborhood gem serving farm-to-table comfort food in a leafy back patio setting. Wander around after for a small-scale architecture tour and browse cheeky local spots like Fetch and rOOTS KC.
11 a.m. | Outdoor art adventure
Walk off breakfast at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. The sculpture garden is home to giant shuttlecocks, shady trees, and some of the best people-watching in the city. Go inside if the weather’s rough — admission is free and the collections are world-class.
1 p.m. | Plaza stroll + local retail therapy
Head to the Country Club Plaza, not just for the fountains and Spanish-style architecture, but for a solid mix of national names and local boutiques. Pop into Made in KC Marketplace for gifts and local goods, Charlie Hustle for a the ever-iconic KC Heart tee, and Westport to the north for spots like Pryde’s Kitchen & Necessities.
3:30 p.m. | Ice cream + a walk by the river
Make your way to Betty Rae’s in the River Market for a scoop of inventive ice cream (goat cheese + apricot, anyone?). Then stroll to the nearby Berkley Riverfront for fresh air and a great view of the Missouri River.
5:30 p.m. | Matchday energy at CPKC Stadium
If you’ve landed on a lucky weekend, your eastbound walk will turn into a sea of teal as you near CPKC Stadium, the world’s first purpose-built stadium for a professional women’s team. Snag a local beer, cheer on the Current, and bask in the best vibes in pro soccer.
8 p.m. | Hit the jazz district
No KC weekend is complete without a night in 18th & Vine. Start at Vine Street Brewing Co., then walk to The Blue Room for live music that’ll make your heart swing. Stick around late if you dare — jams can go until 4 a.m. at Mutual Musicians Foundation.
Sunday
9 a.m. | Local buzz + City Market stroll
Start your day at The Opera House in the River Market, where you can grab coffee, brunch, or a mimosa (yes, all three are allowed). Afterward, browse the City Market for produce, plants, spices, and vintage finds. It’s like an outdoor mall, if malls were charming and smelled like fresh basil.
If you go
The KC Streetcar is free, frequent, and runs from River Market to Union Station — hop on and off as needed. KCI is about 25 minutes from downtown, and yes, you’ll want a car if you’re planning to explore the suburbs or outlying neighborhoods.
