Everything You Need to Know About Crossroads Arts District, KCMO
The Crossroads Arts District is a formerly neglected warehouse district now teeming with art galleries, bars, restaurants, and shopping situated right in the heart of Kansas City. Located just south of downtown Kansas City, Missouri, the area is from I-670 in the north up to Union Station to the south.
Blake’s Favorite Things About The Crossroads Arts District
About Crossroads Arts District
This creative center is home to numerous art galleries and studios of local artists.
Distance to Downtown
1.2 miles / 7 minutes
Outdoor Spaces
Penn Valley Park, Liberty Memorial, The Kansas City Graffiti Tour, The Ice Terrace
Distance to Airport
19 miles / 22 minutes
School District
Crossroads Charter School, KCMO
Amenities
Union Station, Amtrak, KC Streetcar
Walk Score
88
Gym
theGYMkc, F45 Training
Bar
Green Lady Lounge, SoT, Mercury Room, Tannin Wine Bar & Kitchen
Closest Hospital
Truman Medical Center, St. Luke’s on the Plaza, Children’s Mercy Hospital
Shopping
Crown Center, Halls, various local shops
Events
First Fridays, Irish Festival, KC Chalk Walk
Fun Facts About The Crossroads
“If Kansas City had a soul, it would be The Crossroads.” This creative center is home to numerous art galleries and studios of local artists. On the first Friday of every month, the district comes together to throw a half-indoor, half-outdoor block party with live music, vendors, and galleries that stay open late for cocktails and shopping. Here in The Crossroads, you can truly take in the arts, both hanging in showrooms and spray-painted onto building exteriors. It is a short walk to the free streetcar so that you can continue exploring neighborhoods to the North and South.
Best Restaurants in The Crossroads Arts District
Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room
Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room is two concepts under one roof. It is a sleek restaurant offering elegant New American fare and tasting menus, plus nightly live music. The Supper Club centers around social dining, featuring a wide variety of shareable plates based on the season. The Tasting Room is an intimate area separate from the Supper Club where you are at the plating table separating you from the bustle of the cooks.
Parlor
Parlor is a modern food hall on three levels offering casual & creative dining options, plus two bars. Choose between seven different rotating dining concepts and open seven days a week. There are several unique spots among the three levels such as a lounge, library, den, two-story garden patio, and event space.
Messenger Coffee Co.
Messenger Coffee Co. offers classic espresso drinks, manual brews, and seasonal house-made specials. Pair it with a fresh pastry from Ibis Bakery. Take in the views from the rooftop patio in front of an outdoor fireplace or sneak away to the Dunlop Room at penthouse level for an ideal place to read and enjoy the quiet.
Lidia’s
Lidia’s occupies a former railroad house just north of historic Union Station and is celebrated for its upscale Northern Italian dining.
Town Topic
Town Topic on Broadway is a classic American diner that has been open 24/7 since 1937.
There are more than 60 galleries in the Crossroads district, making it one of the five largest arts districts in the US.
The sinful desserts at Christopher Elbow Chocolates were named one of the best Chocolates in the U.S. by Food and Wine Magazine. Tequila lime and wildflower honey are just a couple of examples of exotic flavors.
The Crossroads Hotel houses guests in the two remaining buildings of former notorious crime boss John F. Lazia, who became infamous for participating in the Union State Massacre in 1933.
National World War I Museum and Memorial
The tour at the National World War I Museum and Memorial starts with a short introductory film, followed by an exploration of the different uniforms, weapons, and paraphernalia of the time. Be sure to check out the fantastic view of the city from Liberty Memorial Tower, a monument commemorating those who served in the war.
Hallmark Visitors Center
Hallmark Visitors Center is a free tour of the Hallmark Cards story. Explore the timeline of its humble beginnings to examples of products customers love. Enjoy this self-guided tour at your own pace.
Manifesto
Manifesto is a small, intimate cocktail lounge located in the basement of The Rieger, originally a hotel that was built in 1915. It was operated as a “Speakeasy” during Prohibition and was frequented by the likes of Tom Pendergast and Al Capone.
Legoland Discover Center
Nearby at Crown Center is Legoland Discover Center, providing a range of interactive play areas, including a 4-D cinema and a Lego ride. Sea Life Aquarium features a walk-through underwater tunnel and exhibits from the fresh waters of the Missouri River to the saltwater of the Atlantic Ocean.
Some people love living in the heart of a city. There is no denying the breathtaking views of a lit skyline at night or the ease of walking a few blocks to your favorite restaurant or store. If you want to live somewhere with a busy city vibe, consider Crossroads Arts District.
