Now that spring is in full bloom in Kansas City and (hopefully) the snow is gone for good, I am excited to get out and enjoy some of my favorite seasonal spots! From restaurants and coffee shops to fun outdoor activities, here are my top 10 springtime favorites—listed in no particular order.
1. Royals Games
With Kauffman Stadium being just a 20-minute drive from campus, catching a Royals game is the perfect way to spend a sunny day or a weekend afternoon. Tickets typically range from $10 to $30, and my favorite way to buy them is right at the ticket counter on game day to avoid extra fees. I always love to check out the value meal sections, where classic ballpark snacks are usually $5 or less. And if it is a Tuesday night game, you cannot go wrong with Dollar Dog Night!
2. Messenger Coffee
The downtown location of Messenger Coffee is one of my favorite spots in Kansas City! Their third-floor patio is the perfect place to sip on a latte and study for finals. If I need a more traditional study setup, their first and second floors offer plenty of big tables, free Wi-Fi and a great atmosphere for getting work done. The space is always buzzing with people working on all kinds of projects, which makes for a productive environment.
3. A Picnic at the Nelson-Atkins Museum or World War I Memorial
Head to Whole Foods to grab a fun cheese, some crackers and your favorite snacks, then head to the Nelson-Atkins Museum lawn or the World War I Memorial to enjoy some of the most scenic views in Kansas City. After a long, cold winter, there is nothing better than stretching out on a blanket, soaking up the sun and spending a relaxing afternoon with friends.
4. The City Market
The City Market Farmers Market is fully back up and running every Saturday and Sunday. I love to park around the Crossroads and take the Streetcar down to the River Market stop. Browsing the latest vendors, from artists and bakers to local entrepreneurs, is always a treat, and it feels great to support small businesses. Plus, I can never resist picking up a bouquet of fresh flowers.
5. Pasta at Cupini’s
Tucked just outside the heart of Westport, Cupini’s is a Kansas City staple and one of my go-to spots for authentic Italian food. Their cozy outdoor patio with fairy lights and relaxed seating makes it especially enjoyable in the spring. I always order the four-cheese tortellini and finish off with one of their delicious cannolis. This is the perfect spot to take someone who is new to Kansas City or looking to try a new restaurant.
6. Loose Park
A walk around Loose Park in the sun is good for the soul! Just about 1.5 miles from campus, it is a convenient spot for Rockhurst students to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The park has beautiful rose gardens, a pond, picnic areas, tennis courts and tons of open green space. The loop around the park is about a mile, and it is one of my favorite ways to get some fresh air and reset as the spring semester picks up.
7. McLain’s Market
I am an avid McLain’s fan, or as they would call it, a “McLainiac.” After a tough exam, nothing beats a quick drive to Waldo for an Iced Market Latte and a chocolate chip cookie (warmed up, of course). I love grabbing a seat by the windows, whether I am catching up on homework, diving into a good book or just chatting with friends. Plus, their lunch menu is top-tier, and they always have the cutest themed treats for Chiefs games, holidays and every season.
8. Shopping in Brookside
The Brookside shops are the perfect way to spend an afternoon, with over 20 shops and boutiques, each offering something unique. It is super convenient with easy parking and its close location to campus.
9. YaYa’s Alpaca Farm
YaYa’s Alpaca Farm may be a bit of a drive from campus, but trust me—it is worth it! Run by YaYa, who has dedicated his life to raising show-quality alpacas, this farm is all about sharing the joy of these animals. For just $12, you get to feed the alpacas and spend time in the enclosure as they roam around you. My family has made this a yearly tradition, and we have even been lucky enough to witness a baby alpaca being born. I highly recommend this experience.
10. Cafe Trio Happy Hour
Cafe Trio is hands down my favorite patio happy hour destination around Kansas City. This upscale American restaurant has an amazing selection of food and drinks. When I go, I always order a Frozen Blondie (21+) and the Mac Daddy. Located right on the corner of the Plaza, it is a great spot for a date or a fun night with friends. Plus, their happy hour runs all day Monday and 4-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, so there are plenty of chances to take advantage of the deals.
Kansas City offers so many amazing spots to enjoy the beauty of spring, and there is something for everyone to make the most of the season. These are just a few of my favorite places, and I am excited to experience them all as the weather warms up!
