We’re getting “Ready to Ride in 2025" with the fifth installment of our 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 next: Westport, 39th + Main.

It's not quite the "dummy" line, but long before electrified lines we had mule-drawn carriages. | Photo via MVSC

Travel back in time

We've dissected our modern version's connection to the Country Club streetcar line, but what about the track before the track before the track? Amid the growth and tumult of the late 1800s, Westport had the clunky-yet-charming Dodson “dummy” line — a steam-powered train muffled + disguised as a streetcar to keep, in part, from spooking horses. It rebranded as the Westport and Waldo Railroad in 1894, and the rest is smoggy, soot-covered history.

Feast your eyes and your stomachs. | Photo by Heather White

Grab a bite

If you’ve made the long journey south, or you’re looking for a mid-trip pick-me-up, there are more than a few options for hungry travelers nearby.

Tailleur
Haha's Pizza Hub
Island Spice
Sama Zama
Holy Brunch KC Brunch Bar
Pinches Tacos
Laney's Get Down
Char Bar

Kelly's recently celebrated 75 years in Westport. | Photo by KCtoday

Have a drink (or two)

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

Soli Deo Coffee & Bakery
Sk8bar
Kelly's Westport Inn
Tin Roof
Offkey Karaoke Lounge & Suites
Q Kansas City
Chambre Coffee
Mainstreet Tavern
Side Kicks Saloon

Because everything sounds better on vinyl, right? | Photo by KCtoday

Things to do

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

Nerd out over collectibles at Bubble Wrapp + Clint’s Comics or shop your next vintage grail at Gilded Chaos.
Admire the sleepy shop dog at Mills Record Company while you browse new and used vinyls, music equipment + books.
Take in a show tickling the ivories at Hammers Dueling Piano Bar or Upcycle Piano Craft.
Browse kitchen supplies at Pryde's Old Westport before sampling hand-crafted pies at Ashleigh's Bake House in the back.
See Santa Fe Trail history up close at the Harris-Kearney Historical House Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Got a favorite Wesport gem we should add to our map? Your hot tip might just make it into the next ride-along.