Start your journey with a visit to the oldest surviving building in Kansas City. Once the Albert G. Boone Frontier Supply Store, this historic structure, built in the early 1850’s, now houses Kelly’s Westport Inn. Originally serving pioneers, fur trappers, and traders on the Santa Fe Trail, it was the last stop before venturing into the uncharted western frontier.

Grab the binoculars to fully take in the views from the iconic Scout Statue which overlooks the downtown Kansas City skyline. This scenic overlook offers not only incredible photo opportunities but also a rich history. In the distance, spot the Pioneer Mother Memorial and The Hiker Statue, each with its own tales. Then, get up close with the historical accounts from the Firefighter’s Fountain and Memorial.

En-route to Kaw Point, drive across the first reinforced concrete double-tiered bridge in America, a groundbreaking piece of technology in its time, the 12th Street Viaduct allowed motorized traffic to pass on the upper tier while horse-drawn carriages could travel below. Once at Kaw Point, take in views of the Kansas City skyline from a new vantage point where the Missouri and Kansas Rivers converge. This historic area is where Lewis and Clark stopped during their westward expedition in 1804. Discover the history of the Darby Corporation, once situated here, and which manufactured the amphibious vehicles used in the D-Day invasion before floating them down the river and across the Atlantic to help secure an allied victory in WW2

See the block that earned Kansas City the moniker The Paris of the Plains. Once considered to be the wettest block in the world, Kansas City had more sin and vice in the form of gambling, prostitution, and liquor than anywhere else in the world. It was a time when mobsters rolled dice next to police officers all the while rampant corruption kept the racket alive.

Step into the heart of Kansas city’s economic origins and the greatest multicultural story in its history. Located in the midst of a historically bustling railroad hub, this building served as the processing center for one of the largest livestock markets in the world. At its peak, the Livestock Exchange industry could take in as many as 60,000 head of cattle by rail in a single day. It employed over 35,000 people and united immigrants from all across the globe as they struggled and fought for better pay and working conditions.

Taste a sampling of wine that was crushed, pressed, fermented, barrel-aged, and bottled right here in the West Bottoms while relaxing in the former Drover Telegram Building, a publishing outpost that still has remnants of ink on the celling from its historical origins.

The West Bottoms is a vibrant, evolving neighborhood that blends history with modern creativity. Once the heart of Kansas City's industrial and warehouse district, it’s now home to eclectic shops, antique stores, and art galleries housed in historic buildings. Stroll through cobblestone streets and explore the area’s rich past, from the old livestock yards to the thriving businesses of the early 20th century. Today, the West Bottoms offers a unique mix of vintage charm and contemporary culture, making it a must-see spot for anyone interested in KC’s transformation

Nestled on the bluffs just west of downtown, the historic Strawberry Hill neighborhood offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Kansas City. With its steep, winding streets and breathtaking views of the city skyline, this area is known for its Eastern European roots, where generations of immigrants made their mark working in the West Bottoms. Wander through the charming, colorful neighborhoods, many of which reflect a blend of architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Strawberry Hill is also home to vibrant community gatherings, delicious local eateries, and the iconic St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, which has stood as a centerpiece of the neighborhood for over a century.

Located in the former Fitzpatrick Saloon Building and erected in 1911, The Majestic is a nod to Kansas City’s rich Jazz heritage. This Landmark institution hosted famous musicians such as Count Basie and Charlie Parker and has been at the epicenter of the city’s growth since the early 20th century. Step inside and see the underground speakeasy and the sealed tunnel connecting it with the Coates Opera House, then head upstairs to see the member’s-only Pendergast Cigar Club where James Fitzpatrick himself once lived.

Tucked away in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Swordfish Tom’s is a true speakeasy experience, transporting guests back to the clandestine world of Prohibition. Step through the unmarked door of a historic basement space and descend into a world where time slows down, drinks are strong, and the ambiance echoes the secrecy of KC’s bootlegging past.

Housed in a centuries-old building at 39th and Bell, Prospero’s Books is a beloved independent bookstore that has been a cornerstone of Kansas City’s literary scene since 1997. Creaking wooden floors, towering bookshelves, and handwritten notes from staff give this three-story shop a timeless, welcoming charm. More than just a bookstore, Prospero’s is a hub for local writers, musicians, and thinkers, frequently hosting poetry readings, live music, and community discussions. Step inside and meet the passionate owners who have spent decades fostering this small business as a haven for book lovers and creatives alike