20 E. 5th St., Suite 201, Kansas City, MO 64106816.842.1271www.TheCityMarket.org Hours of Operation: March-October, November-February Saturday 6:00-3:00, Sunday 8:00-3:00 Saturdays & Sundays 8:00-3:00
Visiting the City Market is a long-standing tradition for many locals…and with good reason! Walking through the pavilions is like strolling through a piece of living history. Over the past 150 years, the City Market has become one of the most highly regarded Midwestern public farmers’ markets, connecting the Kansas City community to local growers and small businesses.
Hot Tips
- Several nearby lots offer free parking.
- Bring cash as many of the vendors do not accept credit cards or checks.
Before You Go
This is a wonderful opportunity to discuss the process of food from farm to table! Prepare your kids by letting them rummage through the produce you have on hand at home. Make a game out of spotting the stickers on your apples, bananas and oranges, discovering what states (or countries) have produced the food you have in your kitchen. Let them know that many of the goods they see at the City Market are grown, harvested and prepared right here in our area!
While You’re There
The City Market is home to an array of tantalizing sights, sounds and flavors. See who can be the first to spot a street musician, a floral shop, a magician or fresh homemade bread. The first to find them all wins a prize (our personal favorite is flavored honey sticks!). Fun for kids includes a colorful “tram” ride, a bounce house and a balloon artist. And if your stomach starts growling, you’re in luck! There is an eclectic mix of eateries bordering the market and a picnic area if you wish to eat outdoors.
After Your Visit
Many leave the market with a renewed desire to be more knowledgeable about where their food comes from. The area surrounding Kansas City is home to several farms that are open to the public, such as Shatto Dairy Farm, Green Dirt Farm and Bryant Family Farm. If further investigation brings out the green thumb in you or your child, start out with container gardening or a GrowUm’s garden kit (these wonderful kits are synched with their website, providing you with e-mail reminders and helpful gardening tips).
For more information about the City Market’s history, check out its permanent exhibit at the Kansas City Public Library.
To Discover more Local Markets, read our calendar of Farmers Market Hours and Events!
Lauren Greenlee scored a great deal on fresh spices and tulips at her last trip to the City Market. She and her family can be found gardening (and living) in Olathe.