Uniquely KC Souvenirs
If your kids are anything like my kids, souvenirs are a big deal to them. It’s often not just the kids who like souvenirs. Adults do, too!. 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!
Boulevard Brewery
If a trip to Kansas City’s own Boulevard Brewery is on your agenda while visiting Kansas City, be sure to check out their great souvenirs. While at the brewery, visit the stores where you’ll find everything from shirts to coasters to candles. At the Bottle Shop, mix and match to build your own custom six-pack, choosing from a wide variety of year-round, seasonal and limited release beers. If you don’t have time to visit the store, items can be ordered online at Store.boulevard.com.
Made in Kansas City
To find a nice selection of all different types of souvenirs, visit one of the six Made in Kansas City stores throughout the metro. The shops offer items from more than 300 local artists, providing a way for small businesses to showcase their items to customers all over KC. Several of the locations also have a café, which offers tasty treats. At the Plaza location, I was introduced to ice cream mixed with cereal. Initially, I was skeptical but am now a believer! Every member of the family will find a local souvenir to take home from Made in KC! MadeInKC.co
Cherry Mash
Here’s the great thing about candy as a souvenir: You enjoy it, and it 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.
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. The 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
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, although 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. CharlieHustle.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.