Date Night
Kansas City has long been called the “Paris of the Plains” thanks to its multitude of fountains and picturesque boulevards. I like to think, however, that our dynamic date-night scene has a little something to do with the connection to such a romantic city.
By day, I am the Food and Drink Editor for a local arts and culture magazine, The Pitch. By night, I explore the best — and most interesting — of Kansas City’s activity and restaurant scene for social media. This leads to a myriad of date nights with my husband, but I’ve narrowed down a few top ideas to give you and your better half a uniquely KC experience.
Get to Know KC
Here is a day-long date that will have you exploring KC nearly top to bottom! Start with wine slushies or a tasting flight among the vines at KC Wine Co in Olathe. The peaceful oasis is just a few miles off I-35.
Next, make your way to downtown KC to the truly iconic WWI Memorial and enjoy the best views of the skyline. After climbing those stairs, you’ll be ready to refuel. Head to any location of Gates BBQ, which has been a quintessential KC spot since 1947. Next, satisfy your sweet tooth with your sweetie at Betty Rae’s Ice Cream.
To take it to the next level, head north to The Elms Hotel & Spa for a romantic night to cap off your big day.
Spark Some Creativity
When dinner and a movie won’t cut it, there are plenty of fun ways to spend quality time together. My top pick is to spend an hour or two at AdhDiy Craft Cafe in the West Bottoms. Go for the full experience by ordering a snack and mocktail alongside your project of choice — such as weaving, painting or even creating a terrarium.
For a more casual outing, grab a coffee at Café Equinox inside the lush greenhouse at Family Tree Nursery in Shawnee. Maybe you’ll come home with a new baby — plant baby, that is.
If you are a foodie couple, sign up for a hands-on cooking class at Hemma Hemma or Billie’s Grocery. Last but not least, an exploratory and progressive dinner at one of KC’s many food halls, such as Strang Chef Collective or Lenexa Public Market, ensures that you both leave happy.
First Dates & Meeting People
Several places come to mind for a first date, group dates or even meeting new people. In Kansas City, award-winning Bar K in Berkley Riverfront is a welcoming spot for social dogs and their pet parents. The food and drink menu, multiple stories and pure entertainment make it a well-known hot spot.
For a low stakes, free activity, try the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art — just off the Country Club Plaza, it always features a fresh exhibit or two to keep the conversation flowing.
And, no list would be complete without mentioning KC sports! Chiefs and Royals games are a blast, and KC Current and Sporting KC games may have you feeling even closer to the action and your community.
Speaking of community, people of all types enjoy gathering in the Crossroads Arts District on the first Friday of each month from April through October. First Fridays make for a fabulous date night — be sure to stop for a drink or dessert along the way as you peruse the local art scene.
There’s always something fun going on in KC, so get out there and explore!
And That's Not All
That’s just a small snapshot of all KC offers for couples. Follow Sarah Sipple for even more date night ideas.
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