Uniquely KC Souvenirs
If your kids are anything like my kids, souvenirs are a big deal to them. I see souvenirs as things that take up more space in my home, but my kids see treasures that they HAVE to have. The trick is to find something unique to the location you are visiting, not just some “Made in China” trinket. So whether you are visiting Kansas City and searching for a souvenir to bring home or have visitors and are trying to help them find the perfect tchotchke to take away, here are some “Made in KC” goodies that fit the bill!
SouveNEAR
SouveNEAR offers locally-designed, locally-made goods, providing travelers with a convenient source of creative souvenirs. You’ll find the goodies in a vending machine at Terminal B in Kansas City International Airport, and it includes items from artists, designers and makers in Kansas City. The collection features jewelry, artwork, apparel and other travel-sized mementos ranging in price from $2.50 to $40.00. So when, like me, you are in the airport scrambling to find something to bring home, SouveNEAR has you covered! Souvenear.com
Cherry Mash
Here’s the great thing about candy as a souvenir…it is enjoyed and then doesn’t collect dust in your home. Win-win! The Cherry Mash was invented in St. Joseph, MO, in 1918 in a candy factory started by Dr. George Washington Chase and his son, Ernest. Originally called the Cherry Chase and then the Cherry Chaser, the Cherry Mash is the third oldest candy bar in the nation. After a brief stint of being manufactured in Chicago, the Cherry Mash returned to St. Joseph, where it is still made to this day. A yummy way to remember a visit to Kansas City! CherryMash.com
Indigo Wild-Zum Products
A souvenir that not only serves as a reminder of Kansas City but also smells terrific? Yes, please! The products, manufactured at a factory in the Crossroads district, are all vegetarian, vegan and most are gluten free—and many contain a high percentage of essential oils. From bath bars and salts, lip balms and body mist to home and cleaning supplies like laundry soap and counter cleaner, these souvenirs will last long after your trip to Kansas City. And you can replenish your stock after returning home! Select products are available in Target stores throughout the nation and always available online at IndigoWild.com.
Charlie Hustle KC T-Shirt
T-shirts are usually my go-to souvenirs. They are functional, and the memories associated with the trip can be relived over and over. I have a shirt from my honeymoon and while I don’t wear it anymore, when I see it in my drawer it always takes me back. The Charlie Hustle Heart KC is widely recognized and created to have a vintage feel and look. This stylish t-shirt is the perfect souvenir to take back home after your visit to Kansas City. CharlieHustleShop.com
Barbecue Sauce
Kansas City and barbecue go hand-in-hand. What better way to remember a trip to KC than to bring home some yummy sauce? As a challenge while in Kansas City, visit as many barbecue restaurants as possible and try to determine each family member’s favorite. Almost every Kansas Citian has a sauce that is tops. For my husband, it’s Arthur Bryant’s, while I prefer Zarda. Sauce also makes a great thank you gift to someone outside of Kansas City. On many occasions I’ve sent along a few bottles as a way to say thanks. One of the great things about barbecue sauce as a souvenir? It won’t break the bank!
Sunny Seeds
Kansas’ state flower is the sunflower. And what comes from sunflowers? Sunflower seeds. The Sunflower Food Company, based in Lenexa, takes these seeds and kicks them up several notches by covering them in chocolate and a candy coating. The result is a yummy treat that makes the perfect souvenir to take home as a reminder of time spent in Kansas City and the Sunflower State. In addition to Sunny Seeds, the company makes many other tasty snacks. SunflowerFoodCompany.com
Margaret Sarver lives in Lenexa (home of Sunny Seeds!) with her husband and two daughters. Her favorite part of a vacation is not having to cook meals.