Jensen & Mason
Jensen & Mason
Things to Do
Things to Do in Kansas City
We’re so excited to celebrate in Kansas City! Whether you’re here for the weekend or staying a little longer, here are some of our favorite places to explore, eat, and drink while you’re in town.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
This is one of the places we recommend to everyone, whether you’re an art person or not. The museum itself is beautiful, but we especially love the outdoor sculpture park and lawn, which are perfect for a relaxed walk or a quiet moment outside. It’s free, iconic, and feels very Kansas City in the best way. In the summer, the museum often hosts an art-inspired mini golf course (2026 dates to be announced).
KC Wheel
This is a fun way to see the city from above, with enclosed gondolas that make it an easy stop any time of year. It’s a simple activity to pair with food or exploring nearby areas, and a great way to get a feel for the skyline.
Also worth checking out:
National World War I Museum & Memorial
A powerful and thoughtfully designed museum set on beautiful memorial grounds. Even if you don’t go inside, the view of the Kansas City skyline from the top is one of the best in the city and worth the stop on its own.
Ride the KC Streetcar
One of the easiest ways to explore downtown Kansas City. It’s free, low-stress, and connects many of the neighborhoods, restaurants, and attractions listed here. You can take it from the Plaza area toward downtown without worrying about parking.
Loose Park
A peaceful place to slow down for a bit, known for its walking paths, fountains, and rose garden. It’s especially lovely on a nice day if you’re looking for something calm and outdoors before the festivities.
Toy & Miniature Museum
One of the most charming and unexpected spots in the city, filled with intricate miniatures and nostalgic toys. It’s a fun option if you want something unique or need a break from the summer heat.
Kansas City Zoo
A classic Kansas City experience set in Swope Park. We both spent time here growing up on school field trips and summer days, so it holds a lot of nostalgia for us.
Union Station Kansas City
A Kansas City landmark with beautiful architecture, rotating exhibits, and places to eat and gather. Even just walking through and taking it in is worth your time.
Boulevard Brewing Company
A Kansas City staple and a fun way to spend an afternoon. The tours are popular, and the tasting room is a great place to relax with friends and sample something local.
Shopping & Neighborhoods
Country Club Plaza
An iconic Kansas City neighborhood known for its Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, and walkable streets. It’s a great area to explore on foot, grab a meal, or do a little shopping. Mason proposed on the bridge over Brush Creek between Broadway and Baltimore, so this area will always be especially meaningful to us.
Crossroads Arts District
A creative, energetic area full of galleries, murals, great food, and drinks. It’s especially fun to walk around and explore, and if you’re here during First Fridays, the neighborhood really comes alive.
More areas to explore:
Crown Center
A family-friendly area with shops and restaurants connected by indoor walkways. It’s also home to Hallmark’s headquarters, which feels very fitting for Kansas City.
Brookside
One of our favorite neighborhoods to spend time when we’re home, with local boutiques, cafés, and tree-lined streets. It’s also right by St. Andrew’s where our wedding ceremony will take place.
River Market
A historic, walkable area near downtown with cafés, shops, and one of the city’s largest farmers markets on weekend mornings. It’s a great place to wander, especially if you’re around on Sunday.
Westport
A lively neighborhood with shopping and dining during the day and a busier bar scene at night. This area holds a lot of childhood memories for Jensen and her sisters (and Catherine, Caroline, and Emma from the bridal party), who all attended St. Paul's Episcopal Day School nearby.
Food We Love
Joe's KC BBQ
A true Kansas City classic and the place we recommend to every out-of-town guest, no matter the season. Expect great barbecue, a casual atmosphere, and possibly a line that’s always worth it.
Peanut on Main
A longtime Pindell family favorite and a great spot for a laid-back meal or drink. The BLT and hot wings are the go-to orders, and cheese fries are a must if you’re feeling indulgent. If Main Street is packed, there are several other locations, including one on Johnson Drive.
Some of our other favorites:
The Mixx
A reliable, easy option when you want something fresh and quick without sacrificing flavor. We love it for salads, grain bowls, and wraps that feel lighter but still filling.
Town Topic
A Kansas City classic with no-frills burgers and a diner feel that hasn’t changed much over the years. It’s especially popular late at night, and if you ask Mr. Pindell, the chili alone makes it worth stopping for.
Pigwich
A casual sandwich spot that puts a creative spin on comfort food. It’s an easy, laid-back option when you want something satisfying without committing to a long sit-down meal.
Lidia’s Kansas City
A longtime Kansas City favorite known for hearty pastas and a warm, old-school Italian dining experience. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a cozy, classic meal.
Winstead's
Another Kansas City staple that works just as well for an afternoon treat as it does for a late-night bite. Go with a group and order a Skyscraper if you’re feeling ambitious. Insider tip: fries dipped in a chocolate frosty are the move.
Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop
A cozy spot for flavorful Thai noodles and comforting classics in a relaxed setting. It’s a great choice when you want something warm, casual, and reliably good.
Rye
A favorite for elevated comfort food, classic Midwestern dishes, and incredible pies, with a brunch that’s especially worth the visit. The Leawood location is where we had our first date back home in Kansas City, which makes it extra special to us.
HomeGrown
A go-to spot for brunch, focused on fresh, thoughtfully prepared comfort food. It’s the kind of place that feels easy and welcoming, perfect for starting the day at a slower pace.
Meshuggah Bagels
A local favorite for hand-rolled bagels and classic schmears. It’s a great casual breakfast option if you’re craving something simple, comforting, and done really well.
Billie’s Grocery
A bright, neighborhood spot known for fresh, seasonal dishes and a great brunch menu. It’s a fun place to linger over a meal and feels very Kansas City in its mix of relaxed and thoughtful.
Mildred's
A go-to Kansas City coffee spot with a laid-back, neighborhood feel. It’s an easy walk from many of the hotel blocks, perfect for a slow morning coffee or a casual bite. Their breakfast burrito is a local favorite and definitely worth ordering.
Coffee and Bars
Messenger Coffee Co. + Ibis Bakery
One of our favorite places to grab coffee and pastries before heading out for the day. With an on-site bakery and plenty of space to sit, it’s easy to settle in and ease into your morning.
Percheron Rooftop Bar
Located atop the Crossroads Hotel, this relaxed rooftop bar offers great city views and an easygoing atmosphere. It’s especially nice for a drink and some fresh air.
More options:
hiHat Coffee
A cozy neighborhood coffee shop with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming feel. It’s right next door to our florist, The Little Flower Shop, which is always fun to pop into and browse.
McLain’s Bakery
A Kansas City favorite for baked goods and coffee, and the location of a carefully planned mission where Mason asked Jensen’s sisters, Jess and Jordan, for permission to propose in December 2024.
The Roasterie Café
A Kansas City staple for locally roasted coffee, with multiple locations around the city. It’s a solid, familiar stop if you want something classic and easy.
Oddly Correct Coffee
A minimalist, thoughtfully curated coffee spot with a more low-key vibe. Perfect if you appreciate really good coffee and a quieter place to enjoy it.
André’s Confiserie Suisse
A beloved bakery offering classic European pastries, chocolates, and coffee. Jensen worked here during summers in college, so it will always feel nostalgic and special.
Café Corazón
A warm, colorful coffee shop known for great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a lovely spot to slow down and enjoy a cup while exploring the neighborhood.
Gram & Dun
An easy, comfortable spot near the Plaza with a great patio and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good place to grab a drink or casual bite while spending time in the area.
J. Rieger & Co.
A Kansas City distillery with a welcoming cocktail room and multiple spaces to explore. It’s a fun, slightly elevated stop for a drink that still feels relaxed.