Try New Things
A Historic Spa Oasis
Tucked away in historic Excelsior Springs, just a 35-minute drive from Kansas City, is the Elms Hotel and Spa. The Elms was established in 1888 and has recently undergone extensive renovations. The spa is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation—they have a comprehensive list of spa treatments that come with access to their grotto, featuring saunas, hot tubs, a steam shower and exfoliation bar. They have a full restaurant on site to complete your day of pampering.
The Elms Hotel and Spa 401 Regent St., Excelsior Springs, MO
All Abuzz for Local Honey
Located just south of Kansas City, Messner Bee Farm is home to a charming store and active honey bee operation. They sell a variety of all-natural products made from their honey and bee byproducts, like lip balms, deodorant, beard oil and solid perfume. If you’re looking for something edible, you’re also in luck. They have delicious raw honey, honey comb and creamed honey for sale in their store and online. If you’re looking for a unique place to hold an event, they also have a 1920s rock barn complete with dance floor and kitchen!
Messner Bee Farm 8301 Westridge Rd., Raytown, MO
Channel Your Inner Tarzan
If you’re ready for an outdoor adventure, there’s a scenic zip line and ropes course right here in Kansas City. Go Ape, located in Swope Park, is a suspended obstacle course good for several hours of adrenaline-filled fun. You’ll encounter obstacles like the Tarzan swing, plank crossing and five zip lines. The minimum age is 10 (height and weight restrictions also apply).
Go Ape 7331 Oakwood Dr., Kansas City, MO
Set Sail for Cocktails and Dinner
Aside from the handcrafted cocktails, the Ship is worth a visit for its rich history. Originally located downtown, the restaurant and bar opened shortly after Prohibition. In 1995, the building it was in was torn down by the city to make room for Davis Park. Luckily, a few locals salvaged the interior furnishings, and today, visitors can enjoy the Ship reconstructed as true to history as possible.
The Ship 1217 Union Ave., Kansas City, MO
The Dog Days of Autumn
It’s a dog lover’s dream: a dog park, restaurant and bar all rolled into one! Bar K is a community meeting place for canines and their humans. The new location in Riverfront Park, opened in August, features a 2-acre off-leash dog park, as well as amenities like a juice and coffee bar. Whether you’re looking for a fun place for your pup to let off steam or to attend one of Bar K’s training or social events (like dog yoga, training classes or puppy socialization), Bar K is worth a visit!
Bar K 501 Berkley Pkwy., Kansas City, MO
Old-Fashioned Treats
If you’re looking for old-fashioned refreshments, head to Clinton’s Soda Fountain in Independence. Housed in a building that dates back to the 1800s, the establishment will transport you back in time with favorites like phosphates, malts and floats served on their 100-year-old marble countertop. Harry Truman even worked at a soda fountain in this very building!
Clinton’s Soda Fountain 100 W. Maple Ave., Independence, MO
Wine and Spirits
First established as an Odd Fellows Home in the late 19th century, Belvoir Winery today sprawls across 170 acres and features an inn, ample event space and a wine-making operation. As with some wines, the revitalization of the property took time. Acquired in 1992, the facility wasn’t ready until 2011 to open to the public. Since then, the property has been the site of countless events—including a few drawing on its reputation as a hotbed of paranormal activity. History? Yes. Ghosts? Maybe. Good wine? Definitely.
Belvoir Winery 1325 Odd Fellows Rd., Liberty, MO
Andrea Plunkett Ishmael is a native Midwesterner with a passion for trying all the things.