With the KC Streetcar taking its virgin voyage south of Union Station next year, we figured it was high time to prepare any anxious travelers for the trip. No baggage needed.

This is the first installment of our newest series, where we'll be walking you through what riders can find — food, fun, a little history — just steps from the eight soon-to-debut streetcar stops. Up first: UMKC, 51st and Brookside.

Travel back in time

By 1957, the last of Kansas City's 25 trolley routes were decommissioned and paved over to make way for the mighty automobile. For decades, the only vestiges left of our public transit past was the Harry Wiggins Trolley Track Trail, a walking and bike path retracing 6.8 miles of former trolley track — a line that runs eerily parallel to the modern-day UMKC streetcar stop.

Grab a bite

Let's imagine you didn't just hop on. If you've made the long journey south, or you're looking for a pre-trip pick me up, there are more than a few options for hungry travelers nearby.

Pizza 51
KIN LIN
SPIN! Pizza
Peanut on Main
Andre's
Prime Sushi
Third Street Social
eggtc.
Minsky's Pizza
Osteria Il Centro
Axiois
Bacaro Primo

Have a drink (or two)

There's nothing wrong with a little liquid courage (or caffeinated courage) for your commute into the city.

Crow's Coffee
The Fountain Room
Underdog Wines
Vita's Wine Bar

Things to do

While a walk around the neighborhood is always recommended, we know some prefer a full itinerary of can't-miss experiences.

Harry Wiggins Trolley Trail
Perfect Scents
National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Linda Hall Library
Crestwood Shops
KC Rep Theater

Time to take your seats. After a change of conductor + brief reboarding, tune in next time for the second stop on our trip north: Plaza, at Cleaver II + Main.