A Day in Downtown Lee’s Summit

A day in downtown Lee's Summit

I was NEVER going to live in Lee’s Summit. Or Missouri for that matter. But, here I am.

Downtown Lee’s Summit was a beacon of hope after looking at another round of NO houses in the area. I needed something to love about the idea of relocating to the suburbs. At that time, I had no idea this wonderful little main street even existed. It was love at first sight as we drove down Third Street.

All of the locally owned business and little bars (and no chains anywhere in sight) were calling me in, and I was sold on living here. I have spent the last two years exploring all the great places. I could give you a 5 star review on every place here. I’m typically downtown with my kiddos in tow, meeting up with our play group friends. So this day in Downtown will be the kid friendly edition, but treat yourself to a date night here as well. (I suggest a couples class at Got Art Gallery and a designer cocktail at The W for some adult time)

Upon your arrival into the area take in all the gorgeous old buildings, bubbling fountains, historical markers and friendly faces. There is also plenty of free parking! It truly is the perfect little downtown area. Time has been good, and the integrity of the area lives on.

You must start your day at the Neighborhood Café. Two words: Cinnamon. Rolls.IMG_1746

Probably the most amazing pastry ever. They bring out a huge pile of freshly made, ooey gooey perfect cinnamon rolls for every table.  This is an easy and ideal spot to take the kids to eat a hearty, home cooked  meal and in a welcoming setting. Stopping here always means going to the “fishy fountain” after we are done eating. Located under the iconic heart of downtown this little fountain is the perfect spot to giggle, make a wish and take some pictures.

The shopping in Downtown Lee’s Summit is truly unique. Locally owned businesses offering one of a kind finds. Book and toy stores, furniture and home decor, kitchen gadgets and gourmet chocolates, cigars, jewelry, clothing, and so much more. Take your time and explore!

There are so many different delicious food options. From tacos, to pizzas you can eat your heart out. Our favorite kid friendly group meet up is Main Slice. They have a long table in the back perfect to gather up with all your friends. Quick pizza by the slice is the perfect kid pleaser at lunch time. The salads (and white sangria!) really hit the spot, too. The staff is always welcoming and accommodating making this a great family atmosphere. Plus, any place that offers a changing table in the men’s room automatically gets my vote!

Keep walking down to Whistle Stop to grab a little pick me up. The coffee selection here will have you pepped up in no time. Check out their back deck for a quiet spot to relax and take a break.

Our favorite downtown activity is grabbing a coffee and heading across the street to Williams B Howard Station Park. The choo choo park is a charming little spot to meet up at while the kiddos run around. Centered around a fountain and overlooking the (fenced off) train tracks this park offers many distractions to the kids so you can get in adult conversations. This is also one of the best places to chalk art (and catch Pokemon!) The kiddos love seeing the trains roll by and always get friendly waves from the engineers. (This is also the Amtrak station if you want a train adventure to and from KC).

You can usually find a group of friends playing here at anytime of the day. This sweet little p12932856_10102716599335143_4239512974759533604_nark feels like the center of the downtown area. The city offers concerts here on Friday evenings, the giant Christmas tree grows on the edge, and the views of  Downtown’s charm are wonderful.  This is a must stop, almost every day, for so many!

End you day here on a sweet note and head back down 3rd and get on over to Poppy’s Ice Cream. Some of the best ice cream not just in Lee’s Summit, but in all of the metro. Their hand crafted flavors are creative and to die for! So much yum. Along with a wide variety of ice cream they also offer diary free sorbets, coffees, and chocolate treats. You can even buy some pints to take home. Always a treat and always exciting new flavors.

These are just a few of our top favorites and most frequented spots. I really cannot say enough about all of the wonderful places to see and food to eat. Spend an afternoon, the whole day or an evening! You can’t go wrong with time spent in Downtown Lee’s Summit.

Happy Exploring!

Jess Rodenburg
I am a KC implant but couldn’t imagine ever leaving the Midwest. I grew up in Colorado, moved to the Caribbean in my 20’s, and landed here in KC. I have always had a case of wanderlust and travel as much as possible. Experiencing new cultures, meeting different types of people, and trying new food has been life changing for me and I want my kids to have that experience now instead of waiting until they are adults. Right now we are focused on US road-trips to see National Parks and all The World's Largest along the way. We are a homeschooling family! I like to over share on the internet about divorce, sobriety, therapy, and single mom life. If we are not on the road you’ll find me working on my social media management business, watching Grey’s Anatomy, or painting a mural.

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