Kansas City is known for its world-class jazz, smoky barbecue, and rich Midwestern history. But beyond the iconic attractions, the city is full of hidden gems that only locals and curious travelers tend to uncover. If you’re staying in the heart of the city, you’re in luck — many of these lesser-known spots are just a short stroll or drive from The Cherry Warehouse Hotel.
Located near Crown Center, Downtown, and the Country Club Plaza, The Cherry Warehouse Hotel offers boutique charm with unbeatable access to Kansas City’s creative and cultural scene. Here’s how you can spend a few days discovering the city’s best-kept secrets.
Content
1. Start With Local Coffee and Art in the Crossroads District
Begin your morning in the Crossroads Arts District, just minutes from the hotel. Skip the chains and grab a craft coffee at Messenger Coffee Co., where you can enjoy rooftop views and fresh-baked pastries. Then wander through local galleries like Leopold Gallery or Cerbera Gallery, showcasing KC’s artistic heartbeat.
2. Uncover History at the Money Museum
Most visitors flock to Union Station and the World War I Museum, but few make it to the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Just a 5-minute drive from the hotel, this free museum lets you see millions of dollars in cash, lift a real gold bar, and learn how U.S. currency is managed.
3. Explore the Underrated Westside Neighborhood
Just southwest of Downtown lies the Westside, a quirky neighborhood full of color and culture. Visit Blue Bird Bistro for organic brunch, browse vintage finds at Westside Storey, or enjoy authentic Mexican pastries at Panaderia de las Americas. It’s a low-key area with lots of character — and barely any crowds.
4. Take a Scenic Walk Along the Kauffman Legacy Park
Many visitors miss Kauffman Legacy Park, a peaceful urban oasis with fountains, modern sculptures, and walking trails. It’s ideal for a quiet afternoon escape — and only a short drive from The Cherry Warehouse Hotel. Pack a picnic, bring a book, or just unwind under the shady trees.
5. Experience KC Jazz Without the Hype
You don’t need to go to a major venue to hear great jazz in Kansas City. Skip the lines and discover authentic local sounds at The Phoenix — a cozy jazz bar known for its talented rotating acts and soulful atmosphere. Another hidden gem is Green Lady Lounge, a speakeasy-style venue where live jazz plays nightly in a moody red-lit setting.
Bonus: End the Day Back at The Cherry Warehouse Hotel
After exploring the city’s hidden gems, come home to the warmth, style, and comfort of The Cherry Warehouse Hotel. Its historic architecture blended with modern design creates a perfect retreat for travelers looking to experience Kansas City beyond the surface.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, discovering Kansas City’s lesser-known spots will give you a whole new appreciation for the city. And with The Cherry Warehouse Hotel as your home base, you’ll be right in the heart of it all — close to everything, but just far enough off the beaten path.
This author’s life has been an adventure. He has visited over 30 countries, and lived in four different states. He is a traveler at heart, but he also loves exploring the outdoors on his bicycle or hiking with his canine companion.
