I absolutely love to explore the city and visit new shops. Since living in the dorms at UMKC, I have been making my way around the Plaza, the River Market, Westport and other areas to search for fun activities and places to treat myself. I don’t have to feel guilty for spending a little more on certain products because my dollars are being invested back into my community. I’m going to share some of my favorite locations to shop around Kansas City and encourage those reading to definitely stop by.
- River Market Antiques
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Based on the title of the store, the average Kansas Citian could probably find this shop’s location. River Market Antiques is located just outside of River Market Square on W. 5th St. The building includes three floors and a basement of everything antique. Furniture, dishware, jewelry, denim jackets, grandad sweaters and anything else that comes to mind, River Market Antiques definitely has. My favorite part of the store is the top floor, which is dedicated specifically to vintage clothes. I feel like I’m transported back in time when I see the displays and the variety of pieces to try on in the dressing room. I’ve been visiting River Market Antiques for years, and it’s time more people know about how awesome it is.
- Dutch Flowers
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This store is located inside of the River Market Square next to Brown & Lowe. The store is a great place to look for gifts, especially for plant lovers. I can only describe the inside of the store as heavenly. There are a variety of succulents, house plants, bamboo and even kits to grow flowers from the pot and seeds provided. For friends who don’t have a green thumb (a.k.a. me), there are posters, books, mugs, bags, ‘crack your own geode’ and crystal jewelry. Everything is so unique. If there is ever a special occasion coming up, this is also a great place for flowers, hence the name. The flower displays that are created are absolutely gorgeous. Drop hints to your friends or partner for your next birthday present here.
- Aquarius
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All crystal lovers unite in Westport. As a newbie to crystals, the staff is super helpful if you have any questions or want to discuss what experiences they’ve had. The jewelry is my favorite part. There are beautiful rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. There are also larger pieces that can be used as decoration. In the back of the store, there are books for tarot reading, tarot cards and guides to different spells. I’ll admit, I’m not experienced, but if I ever need to cast a spell to do well during my finals, this is the place I’m going to. Furthermore, if I need to conduct a self tarot reading to check in with the universe, I’m buying my cards here. They have beautiful decks that are designed with women empowerment illustrations or even cats (if you’re a cat lover like myself).
- Made in KC Marketplace & Cafe
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There are multiple locations of this store, but I’ll be referencing the one on the Plaza since it was the first spot I have visited. Made in KC Marketplace is the perfect way to invest your dollars back into the city. The products inside are all made by local businesses such as Messenger Bee Farm, Crown & Heart and local artists that create Kansas City-inspired wall art. This store makes it easy to find some of your favorite local brands all in one place. Their website is incredibly helpful to find exactly what you’re looking for, not to mention the variety of items listed like greeting cards, skincare and items for your pets. Additionally, you can grab coffee while you shop. The coffee and pastries are supplied from roasters and bakers all around Kansas City. Close to the holidays, I went to study there and ordered a seasonal Rosemary Mint Cappuccino. I’m an avid coffee drinker, and if it’s possible to describe it this way, this drink tasted beautiful.
- Fetch
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In the West Bottoms, Fetch is another place that houses some neat finds. My personal favorites are the coloring books and unique card games to play with friends. Towards the back of the store lies cute vintage clothing items that fit into the trends of today. When I first walked in, I was greeted by a cute dog that walked around the store while I shopped. Even though I’m not a dog person, I was swept up in the friendly environment they provided. The cute pooch was also wearing one of the t-shirts available for sale, and I have to say, it’s great advertisement. Fetch stays up to date with current events and raises awareness through their fetchboard and Instagram page. I deeply admire how they show support towards the LGBTQ+ community through speaking out to protect trans youth. It definitely contributes to the overall safe feeling of the store. The posters they sell with inclusive messages allow you to take home a piece of that empowering feeling the store provides.
I cannot express enough how much I love visiting these places. I’m still doing more adventuring to find other local businesses, but these are the first ones that came to mind. Introduce your friends and family to these shops, and maybe you can also capture cute Instagram-worthy pictures at all these locations. Happy shopping and exploring in Kansas City.