Cozy Kansas City Spots to Escape the Winter Blues

Hey everyone, Scott Asner here!

January in Kansas City can feel long once the holiday rush fades and the cold settles in. I have found that winter is actually one of the best times to slow down and enjoy some of the city’s coziest spaces. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to read, meet a friend, or just warm up for a while, Kansas City has no shortage of inviting spots that make winter feel a little easier to enjoy. Here are a few of my favorite places to escape the winter blues around KC.

Settle In at a Local Coffeehouse

There is something about a warm drink and a comfortable seat that instantly changes your mood on a cold day. Kansas City’s coffee shops are perfect for lingering in the winter, whether you are catching up on emails or taking a break from the day. Messenger Coffee and Broadway Café are two spots I often recommend for their welcoming atmosphere and plenty of space to relax.

Browse a Bookstore for a Slow Afternoon

Winter is the perfect excuse to spend more time with a good book. Independent bookstores like Rainy Day Books and Prospero’s Bookstore offer cozy corners and a calm environment that feels especially comforting this time of year. I enjoy popping in with no agenda and seeing what catches my attention.

Enjoy a Fireside Meal or Lounge

Restaurants and lounges with fireplaces or warm interiors really shine in the winter months. Whether it is a casual meal or a longer evening out, these spaces invite you to stay awhile. The relaxed pace and warm ambiance make winter dining feel more intentional and enjoyable.

Visit a Museum or Gallery Indoors

Kansas City’s museums are a great way to stay active without braving the cold for too long. Places like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offer expansive indoor spaces where you can take your time and explore at your own pace. It is one of my favorite ways to reset during the colder months.

Location: 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO

Take Advantage of Quiet Winter Weekdays

One thing I appreciate about winter is how much calmer the city can feel. Popular spots tend to be less crowded, which makes January a great time to revisit places you might normally avoid during busier seasons. A quieter pace can make even familiar locations feel new again.

Winter Tips for Beating the Blues

  • Lean into slower days and give yourself permission to relax
  • Seek out warm, comfortable spaces you can return to regularly
  • Mix social time with solo downtime
  • Use winter as a chance to explore indoor spots you usually overlook
  • Embrace the season rather than rushing through it

Winter does not have to feel like something to get through. With the right mindset and a few cozy places to enjoy, it can be a season that helps you recharge. I hope these spots give you a few ideas for making the most of January in Kansas City.

Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri

Also follow Scott Asner on: About.me, LinkedIn, Quora, and Slideshare.

Magical Winter Activities to Enjoy in KC

Background of blurred colorful, multicolored, multi-colored, Christmas ornament bokeh round circles of green, red, orange, blue colors

Hey everyone, Scott Asner here!

Winter in Kansas City has a kind of magic you can feel the moment the temperatures drop. The city transforms into a place filled with twinkling lights, seasonal traditions, and cozy indoor escapes. Whether you live here or you are visiting for the holidays, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season and make the colder months something to look forward to. Here are a few of my favorite winter activities around KC that always help me unwind and enjoy the city in a different way.

1. Experience the Atmosphere at the Plaza Lights

      The Plaza Lights are one of the most iconic winter traditions in Kansas City. There is something special about walking around the Country Club Plaza after dark while the buildings glow with thousands of lights. It is a great spot for dinner, last minute holiday shopping, or a simple evening stroll with friends and family. I always try to go at least once each season.

      Location: Country Club Plaza, Kansas City, MO

      2. Take a Skate at Crown Center Ice Terrace

      The Ice Terrace has been a favorite winter activity for generations. Whether you are an experienced skater or you spend most of your time clutching the rail, it is a fun way to enjoy the crisp winter air. Grab a hot chocolate afterward and enjoy the festive surroundings at Crown Center.

      Location: 2425 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO

      3. Visit Union Station’s Holiday Displays

      Union Station does a fantastic job turning the historic building into a holiday destination. From model train exhibits to giant decorations and photo areas, it is worth a visit even if you have been before. The atmosphere alone makes it one of my favorite winter stops in the city.

      Location: 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO

      4. Warm Up with Seasonal Drinks at KC Coffee Shops

      Cold weather is the perfect reason to explore Kansas City’s coffee scene. Local spots like Messenger Coffee and Second Best Coffee create specialty drinks that fit the season, and the cozy interiors always make it easy to settle in. I enjoy stopping by on weekend mornings or between meetings to reset and warm up.

      5. Catch a Show at the Kauffman Center

      The winter season always brings impressive performances to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. From holiday concerts to ballet and theater, it is a great way to enjoy an evening indoors while still experiencing something special.

      Location: 1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO

      Winter Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Season

      • Dress in layers so you can stay comfortable both indoors and outdoors
      • Plan ahead when visiting popular holiday attractions
      • Try at least one new winter activity each year
      • Make time for cozy indoor moments, whether it is reading, cooking, or visiting a favorite café
      • Take advantage of Kansas City’s winter traditions to spend quality time with the people you care about

      Winter in Kansas City is full of opportunities to relax, explore, and celebrate the season. I hope this list gives you a few new ideas to try. Stay warm and enjoy everything KC has to offer during the colder months.

      Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri

      Also follow Scott Asner on: About.me, LinkedIn, Quora, and Slideshare

      Where to See the Best Holiday Lights in Kansas City

      There is something special about the way Kansas City lights up during the holidays. As the temperatures drop, the city comes alive with twinkling displays, festive traditions, and community spirit that make it one of my favorite times of year. Whether you are a lifelong resident or just visiting for the season, here are a few of my go-to spots to take in the magic of Kansas City’s holiday lights.

      1. Country Club Plaza Lights
        No list would be complete without mentioning the Plaza Lights. This KC tradition has been going strong for nearly a century, and there is nothing quite like that first moment when the entire district glows to life. Strolling through the Plaza with a cup of hot chocolate in hand is one of my favorite ways to kick off the holiday season.
      • Union Station
        Union Station is beautiful any time of year, but during the holidays it becomes something extraordinary. The massive tree, elegant decorations, and stunning light displays make it a must-see for families and visitors alike. It is also a great indoor option for those extra chilly nights.
      • Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake
        Every year, Jackson County Parks and Recreation puts on one of the most impressive light displays in the area. With more than 500,000 lights and 175 animated displays, Christmas in the Park is an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.
      • Zona Rosa Northern Lights
        Zona Rosa brings a mix of classic holiday charm and modern style with its Northern Lights display. The area is perfect for an evening stroll, and you can easily make a night of it with dinner or shopping before you take in the lights.

      No matter where you go, the holiday lights around Kansas City have a way of bringing people together. For me, it is a reminder of what makes this city so special—a strong sense of community, local pride, and a shared appreciation for the little things that make the season bright.

      Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri

      Also follow Scott Asner on: About.me, LinkedIn, Quora, and Slideshare

      Must-See Kansas City Attractions for Visitors & Locals

      Scott Asner Kansas City Attractions

      Hey everyone, Scott Asner here!

      Whether you are new to Kansas City, hosting visitors, or have lived here your whole life, there are some attractions that never lose their charm. KC has a mix of history, culture, and entertainment that makes it a special place to explore. I always find myself going back to a few key spots that show off what this city is all about. Here are some must-see Kansas City attractions worth putting on your list.

      1. Union Station
      Union Station is one of my favorite landmarks. The building itself is stunning, and inside you will find rotating exhibits, Science City for families, and even a planetarium. During the holidays, the station is decorated beautifully and becomes a hub of activity.

      Location: 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO

      2. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
      This free museum is a cultural gem in the heart of the city. The art collection spans centuries, but even if you are not an art enthusiast, the outdoor sculpture garden is worth a stroll. The giant shuttlecocks on the lawn have become an iconic KC photo spot.

      Location: 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO

      3. Country Club Plaza
      I always recommend visitors take a walk through the Plaza. With its Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, and wide variety of shops and restaurants, it is both a great place to spend the afternoon and a reminder of Kansas City’s nickname as the City of Fountains.

      Location: Brush Creek area, Kansas City, MO

      4. National WWI Museum and Memorial
      This site offers one of the best views of downtown from the Liberty Memorial Tower, but it is also a powerful educational experience. The exhibits are well designed and tell the story of World War I in a way that is both informative and moving.

      Location: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO

      6. Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
      For a family outing, the zoo is always a hit. It has been expanding in recent years and now includes an aquarium that adds another layer to the experience. It is an easy way to spend a full day outdoors.

      Location: 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO

      7. Boulevard Brewing Company
      Kansas City’s own Boulevard is worth a visit if you enjoy local brews. The tour is fun, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the tasting room is the perfect spot to wrap up a day of sightseeing.

      Location: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO

      Final Thoughts
      Kansas City has so many attractions that it is hard to narrow them down, but these are places I always recommend. Whether you are visiting for the first time or just want to see your hometown from a new perspective, KC’s mix of culture, history, and fun never disappoints.

      Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri

      Also follow Scott Asner on: About.me, LinkedIn, Quora, and Slideshare

      Best Fall Festivals and Events in Kansas City

      Hey everyone, it’s Scott Asner here!

      Fall has always been one of my favorite seasons in Kansas City. The weather cools down, the leaves start to change, and the city fills with traditions that bring people together. From food to music to family fun, there is so much to enjoy. Here are a few of my favorite fall festivals and events that I think capture the heart of Kansas City.

      Plaza Art Fair

      Every September, the Country Club Plaza transforms into one of the region’s largest art celebrations. With hundreds of artists, live music, and incredible food, this event has been a tradition for decades. I always find it inspiring to see the creativity and energy that the fair brings to the city.

      American Royal World Series of Barbecue

      Kansas City and barbecue go hand in hand, and this event is proof of why. Thousands of teams come together to compete in the largest barbecue competition in the world. Whether you are there to taste, compete, or just soak up the atmosphere, it is a true celebration of KC’s barbecue heritage.

      Weston Applefest

      Just a short drive from downtown, Weston hosts one of the most charming fall festivals in the area. Applefest has everything from apple dumplings to a parade, and it is one of my favorite ways to spend a fall day. It is also a perfect family-friendly outing if you want to enjoy the season outside the city.

      Kansas City Renaissance Festival

      The Renaissance Festival in Bonner Springs is another fall highlight. With themed weekends, performers, and food straight out of the Middle Ages, it is unlike anything else you will find in Kansas City. I love how it combines history, entertainment, and community in one place.

      Boulevardia Fall Edition (when scheduled)

      Boulevardia has become a staple for craft beer fans, and its fall edition is a newer addition that brings together breweries, food trucks, and live music. It is a fun way to explore Kansas City’s growing food and beverage scene all in one spot.

      Why Fall in Kansas City Stands Out

      What I love most about these events is not just the entertainment but the sense of community they create. Kansas City knows how to celebrate, and fall is one of the best times to experience the energy and traditions that make this city so special.

      Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri

      Also follow Scott Asner on: About.me, LinkedIn, Quora, and Slideshare

      Discovering Hidden Gem Restaurants in Kansas City: Delicious Spots Off the Beaten Path

      Hi everyone, Scott Asner here!

      Kansas City is known for its world-famous barbecue and vibrant food scene—but beyond the staples are some truly incredible hidden gem restaurants you might not know about yet. Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food, unique international dishes, or something totally unexpected, these local favorites offer big flavors in unassuming settings. Let’s dig into a few of Kansas City’s best-kept culinary secrets.

      1. Happy Gillis Café & Hangout – Comfort Food with a Twist

      Located in the historic Columbus Park neighborhood, Happy Gillis is a warm, welcoming café that feels like a neighborhood secret. Known for its seasonal menu and scratch-made comfort food, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back breakfast or lunch. Try the house-made biscuits with seasonal jam or the always-creative daily specials that bring together bold flavors and locally sourced ingredients. The café’s cozy vibe makes it a great spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a quiet solo meal.

      Location: 549 Gillis St, Kansas City, MO

      2. Waldo Thai – An Unexpected Flavor Adventure

      Don’t let the humble strip mall exterior fool you—Waldo Thai serves up some of the most complex, authentic Thai dishes in the city. Chef Pam Liberda brings Northern Thai cuisine to life with dishes like Khao Soi and Nam Prik Ong, all made with traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s modern, intimate setting is perfect for date night or a quiet dinner with friends. And if you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the chef’s tasting menu—you won’t regret it.

      Location: 8431 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO

      3. The Antler Room – Globally Inspired, Locally Sourced

      Tucked away near Hospital Hill, The Antler Room is a low-key spot that punches way above its weight in terms of culinary creativity. With a menu inspired by Mediterranean, Japanese, and Eastern European flavors, this intimate restaurant is a go-to for food lovers looking for something new. Small plates are the name of the game here, making it easy to sample a little bit of everything. Don’t skip the handmade pastas—they change frequently and are always a highlight.

      Location: 2506 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO

      4. Bay Boy Specialty Sandwiches – A Hidden Deli Delight

      Craving a great sandwich? Bay Boy might just become your new favorite lunch spot. Tucked in a residential part of Westport, this hidden deli is known for its signature Dutch Crunch bread and creative sandwich options. With friendly service and generous portions, Bay Boy nails that perfect combination of casual and crave-worthy. Grab a sandwich to-go and enjoy it at a nearby park—or stay and enjoy the quirky, welcoming vibe.

      Location: 4706 Holly St, Kansas City, MO

      Tips for Finding Great Hidden Gems

      • Talk to locals: Some of the best recommendations come from neighbors, coworkers, or your favorite barista.
      • Be willing to explore: Great food can pop up in unexpected places—don’t be afraid to try something new.
      • Check the hours: Many hidden gems have limited hours or quirky schedules, so check before you go.
      • Follow on social: Smaller spots often post specials or menu updates on Instagram or Facebook.
      • Go early or off-peak: These places may not take reservations and can fill up quickly.

      Kansas City’s hidden gem restaurants are a big part of what makes our local food scene so exciting. Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting, stepping off the beaten path can lead to some truly memorable meals. So the next time you’re looking for something new, give one of these tucked-away treasures a try—you just might discover your new favorite spot!

      Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri   

      Also follow Scott Asner on: About.meLinkedIn, Quora, and Slideshare

      Best Winter Activities in Kansas City

      Hello all, Scott Asner here. Winter and cold weather are approaching, but that doesn’t mean that Kansas City is slowing down. There are hundreds of things to do in KC year-round, so here are some of the best winter and holiday activities the city has to offer.

      Ice Skating

      The Ice Terrace at Crown Center is open from November to March. Ice skating is a great way to warm up and stay active when the weather is cold. Gliding on the ice is great exercise, and a fun way to spend time with friends and family. The convenient location makes it a one-stop errand, so you can get some holiday shopping done after your skating session is over.

      GloWild at Kansas City Zoo

      Are you an animal lover? From September 1 to December 11, you can attend GloWild at Kansas City Zoo. This family-friendly event features spectacular lanterns shaped like animals, so it’s best to book a time slot after dark. The festival route is around 1-mile long, with live acrobatic performances located at the Helzberg Penguin Plaza. The Penguin Plaza is roughly halfway through the route and shows start at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30, so plan accordingly!

      Luminary Walk at Overland Park Arboretum

      For another eye-catching light display, the annual Luminary Walk at the Overland Arboretum has dates throughout November and December. The route is around 1.5 miles but there are several shortcuts in the park for an alternate route that is just short of 1 mile. Attendees can visit Santa in his Woodland Depot and catch musical performances in various locations around the park. The Luminary Walk is a popular festival and is always a crowd-pleaser for families. The arboretum is also hosting an adults-only candlelit walk on December 1.

      Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site

      If you are a history buff looking for an educational winter activity, the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop is always entertaining and interesting! Attendees can learn about the history of the Civil War, the Mahaffie Family, and on Saturdays, enjoy blacksmith demonstrations. The Heritage Center is also hosting Cookies With Santa events on select dates in December.

      These winter activities make Kansas City a lively place to be, even when it’s cold and dark! If you visit one of the attractions from this list, I hope you enjoy it and make some great holiday memories.

      ~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

      Also follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, and Xing.

      Best Sports Activities in KC

      Hello all! Scott Asner here. Kansas City is a great sports town, and it’s no secret that I am a huge sports fan. I love watching games and keeping up with my favorite teams, and I like to do sports to stay active as well. If you are looking for sports entertainment around KC, keep reading. Today, I’m sharing a list of some great sports activities right here in Kansas City.

      The Dugout

      If you are looking for batting cages in KC, The Dugout is a solid choice. You can make a reservation for batting cages, pitching tunnels, and turf fields to practice or bring your team for drills. The Dugout has a staff of baseball and softball instructors for team classes or private lessons. If you are looking for a kid-friendly activity, The Dugout also hosts birthday parties and camp sessions.

      T-Shotz

      T-Shotz is an exciting, virtual driving range for all ages. Not your average driving range, T-Shotz has simulations of some of the best golf courses in the world. Even those who are not golf fans will enjoy the fun mini-game simulations! With a full menu of food and drink available, T-Shotz also makes for a great event venue for any occasion.

      The Soccer Lot

      For the soccer fans, The Soccer Lot has pickup games, leagues, camps, and tournaments. The Soccer Lot is known for hosting 5-a-side teams, so it’s a great way to play a game with a smaller group. With only four field players and a goalie on each side, these games, sometimes called “mini soccer” are usually more fast-paced. This location hosts events and parties, so if you’re looking for soccer activities for a group, look no further.

      The College Basketball Experience

      Basketball lovers will have a blast at The College Basketball Experience. Home of the College Basketball Hall of Fame, this venue is a sports fan’s dream. There are interactive games and activities, so it’s a fun time for all ages. For all things basketball, there is no better place to spend the day than The College Basketball Experience. 

      Kansas Speedway

      If motorsports are more your speed, you can’t miss the Kansas Speedway! It’s no wonder NASCAR is so popular in Kansas City, the races are always thrilling to watch. Anyone who loves cars and action will have a great time at the Kansas Speedway, and it’s a popular attraction for all ages. It does get loud at the track, so it is a good idea to bring ear protection, especially for kids.

      Needless to say, if you are a sports fanatic like I am, you’ll find no shortage of activities here in Kansas City! Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, I hope this list will help you get your fill of sports entertainment in KC. 

      ~ Scott Asner, wannabe musician and Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

      Also follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, and Xing.

      The Kansas City Royals are Being Sold: What Could This Mean for the Franchise?

      Kansas City Royals always brings the heat

      My wife and I are long-time fans of the Kansas City Royals, and we try to hit a home game whenever we can; it’s one of our favorite family pastimes. Currently, the Royals are sitting 4th overall in the MLB’s American League Central (AL Cent), but their performance isn’t the only thing fans are talking about and sportscasters are reporting on.

      After much speculation, it’s been confirmed that the Kansas City Royals are being sold to local businessman John Sherman, for $1 billion. The official announcement was made by the Royals’ current owner David Glass and his family on August 30th. While Glass explained to Kansas City fans how difficult this decision was to make, there are high hopes that John Sherman will make an excellent addition to the team.

      A season-ticket holder, minority owner of the Cleveland Indians, and Kansas City native, John Sherman will be the third owner of the franchise since it was founded in 1969 by Ewing Kauffman. While the prospect of new ownership is daunting to fans, teammates, and management, John Sherman is certainly the right man for the job. This change in ownership could mean a whole new ball game for the Royals, and one that exudes success.

      I believe that Sherman will truly be an asset to the Royals, as his experience speaks for itself. As a former minority owner of the Cleveland Indians, Sherman has seen the operations of major league baseball–he knows how the system works and the types of strategies that will evoke prosperity for the team and the franchise as a whole. However, there has been some speculation that Dayton Moore steps away from the general manager’s office while Ned Yost might also make an abrupt departure.

      We can only wait to see what the final outcome will be, but it’s important to keep in mind that the Royals have always been a strong and stable franchise–more than any other franchise within the last decade. As a long-time fan, I have hope that this new deal will bring forth a new era for the Kansas City Royals.

      ~ Scott Asner Kansas City, Missouri

      Also follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, and Xing.

      A Brief History of Kansas City

      Some people call it “Paris of the Plains,” – others call it the BBQ Capital of the World – or simply K.C. There are a lot of different names for Kansas City, Missouri but I just call it home.

      From its early days as a settlement for traders and trappers, Kansas City has been a burgeoning center piece in the American story. Today, the metro area is home to over 2 million people, and is a major business sector and logistical hub in the heartland of the country.

      Allow me to give you a short history of this great city.

      Founding and Early Days

      Kansas City became famous as a waypoint for traders, trappers and pioneers making their way westward.

      The area around Kansas City was initially inhabited by Native American tribes (primarily the Kansa Indians and the Shawnee tribe) in its early days before its development by French traders and Missouri’s later inclusion into the United States.

      Kansas City itself was founded heavily by the activity of settlers and pioneers who made their way along the Kansas and Missouri Rivers – scouting out the land in search of animals, farmland and strategic points for traders. A prominent merchant and missionary named John Calvin McCoy opened up a store for fellow travelers, sprouting neighboring settlements and what would eventually become Kansas City.

      By mid-century, Kansas City had emerged as a key port along the Missouri River, and had established itself as a primary point of interest for travelers as the great westward expansion was underway. The budding town was eventually incorporated into Missouri, although half of the metro still remains in Kansas state to this day.

      The Boom

      In the late 1800’s to mid 1900’s, Kansas City went through a boom. Due to its prime location as a crossroads to the west, the city became a destination for travelers and newly arrived citizens which brought in some of its most defining qualities.

      In 1881, the state of Kansas enacted prohibition laws for its residents – barring the consumption and selling of alcohol. Luckily for those residents located on the western side of the Kansas River, they could get a drink just over the bridge in Missouri where alcohol was still legal. This created a boom in taverns and saloons throughout Kansas City (especially along our famous 12th street.)

      The explosion of profitability from these saloons brought in other forms of business (banks, manufacturing, hotels, etc.) and led to the expansion of Kansas City’s influence. The city soon gave birth to its own distinct form of Jazz, as well as placing itself on the map for the world’s best BBQ.

      Current Day

      Kansas City, Missouri

      After the mid-1900’s Kansas City continued to develop along with the rest of the United States. Population growth has continued to climb as the city remains an attractive site for businesses, young professionals and families in the Midwest.

      Today, we are the country’s 29th most populous metro area. We are home to a multitude of fabulous schools and universities. We enjoy a multitude of sports teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals – and yes, our BBQ is still number one.

      We have more boulevards than Paris, filled with places to see and things to do. If you should be so lucky to find yourself in this part of the country, make sure to visit some of our most notable locations, like the National WWI Museum and Memorial or the famous Union Station.

      Until next time.

      ~ Scott Asner Kansas City, Missouri

      Also follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, and Xing.