City: Kansas City, MO

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (816) 842-1271

Description: When it comes to attractions, this one really produces, literally. Since 1857 it’s been home to the biggest farmers’ market in the Midwest. But there’s plenty happening here besides ripe tomatoes. The River Market is a laid-back neighborhood that’s fun to explore on foot. You might even find a treasure to ship back home at the Kansas City Artists Coalition (816-421-5222) at 201 Wyandotte, where a variety of artists show work from cutting-edge to classic. Then follow your nose to Planters Seed and Spice Company at 513 Walnut, where you’ll find bins overflowing with every fragrant herb, seed, and coffee bean imaginable. Antiques hunters will go nuts in the 30,000-square-foot River Market Antique (816-221-0220) at 115 West 5th St. Other antiques are on view—this time reclaimed treasures from a boat that sank in 1856—at Arabia Steamboat Museum, 400 Grand St. Newer shops are taking residence as well, including Urban Dwellings Design (412 Delaware, 816-569-4314), a shop and design studio filled with furnishings that would feel at home in a sleek condo or a traditional abode. You wouldn’t be the first to show up and tell designer/owner Jaclyn Banash, “I’ll take everything.” The trio of friendly birds, however, isn’t for sale. New restaurants have joined the neighborhood as well, prompting a monthly wine walk. You’ll want to start or end at the Farmhouse (3rd and Delaware, 816-569-6032), known for its focus on local produce. How handy to have a farmers’ market close enough to smell the tomatoes!