Welcome to Westport
Westport is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Kansas City, Missouri, and is considered the city’s original entertainment district. Originally called West Port, the neighborhood got its name more than 150 years ago as it was the westernmost village where settlers stocked up before venturing into the Kansas Territory.
Nearly twenty years before Kansas City became Kansas City, John Calvin McCoy opened a trading post in Westport. Over the next few decades, Westport grew quickly into a thriving community where fur trappers and farmers traded goods and wagon trains of pioneer families stocked up for journeys west via the nearby California, Oregon, and Santa Fe trails. Over a decade later, in 1864, Union and Confederate soldiers fought in The Battle of Westport, which essentially ended the Civil War in the western states. Unfortunately, after the war, trade fell off sharply and never recovered. By 1899, Kansas City annexed Westport.
Fun Facts About Westport
Nutterville is an area within Westport, full of colorfully painted homes and eclectic businesses. It is named after local Kansas businessman James B. Nutter who bought up many houses decades ago and renovated them. Now, Nutterville’s residents maintain the colors and flowers of the area. This unique spot is full of personality and vibe. It is a little hidden away but well worth discovering.
As Westport is Kansas City’s oldest entertainment district, the cafes and restaurants, bars, and music venues will not disappoint.
The Westport Saloon
The Westport Saloon is Kansas City’s premier American Roots Music venue, focusing on Honky Tonk, Bluegrass, Classic Country, Blues, and traditional forms of American music. With over 100 whiskey choices, this small capacity live music room is great for an evening of cocktails and dancing.
Kelly’s Westport Inn
Kelly’s Westport Inn, at 500 Westport Road, is one of the oldest buildings standing in Kansas City. It is arguably Kansas City’s most famous and celebrated landmark, and generations have gathered in this legendary pub since 1947. Bartender Randal Kelly’s warm welcomes, quick wit, and generous personality helped create a place where people from all walks of life could enjoy a beer or two amongst friends. Since 1947, the Kelly family has kept the spirit of camaraderie and fellowship alive on this tiny corner of Westport.
Westport is one of Kansas City’s most distinct, vibrant, and economically productive places. The convenience of walking to locally owned and operated businesses makes Westport an ideal place to live.
