Stellar Views

Not all patios are created equal. Take, for example, Trezo Mare’s Briarcliff terrace, which comes complete with magical lights strung overhead and a firepit for cooler evenings. And as spring arrives, watch for a reopening announcement from the incredibly cool Percheron bar atop Crossroads Hotel, offers unrivaled view of its namesake arts district, plus plenty of bocce and frozen cocktails to help beat the heat.

Paving a new path for patios in heart of the city is Horsefeather Social at the Loews Kansas City. Named after the signature KC cocktail, this lush rooftop lounge soars above Downtown and boasts one of the best views of the stunning performing arts center directly to the south.

For authentic family recipes from Jalisco served in an awesome urban setting, check out Teocali Mexican Cantina in the Longfellow neighborhood. Its second-floor patio and third-floor rooftop both deliver welcome escapes—especially when paired with a pitcher of margaritas.

Outdoor Hangs

Just north of the river sits Chicken N Pickle, a unique concept that perfectly pairs pickleball with picnic space and rooftop views. New in North KC is the Iron District, part shipping-container park and part food hall. Globetrot your way through eight colorful restaurants, then spread out in the district’s spacious courtyard.

Many of KC’s acclaimed breweries also have great patios on tap. Get your bearings and spend your day in the shade at Brewery Emperial, a laidback brewpub that is equally known for its handcrafted ales and a spacious beer garden.

One of the most popular breweries in the region, KC Bier Co. specializes in authentic, German-style lagers and ales—and touts a one-of-a-kind biergarten. Head up to top floor at Messenger Coffee Co. with a latte or pour over in-hand to enjoy third-story views of the Crossroads. 

Treat your canine friend to a morning, afternoon or evening out at Bar K, a pooch-centric hangout designed for pets and pet partners alike that features an off-leash dog park, bar, restaurant and year-round programming for all.

Don't miss the Electric Park Garden Bar, a whimsical escape tucked away in the East Bottoms at J. Rieger & Co. Complete with fire pits, grassy digs and a resident food truck, plus classic mixed drinks and cocktail-inspired snow cones, sunny days and summer nights are made even better by gathering at this elegant grown-up playground.

Delicious Dining

Known for a great many things (see Spanish-inspired architecture and high-end shopping), the Country Club Plaza is home to several incredible patios. Sit in the middle of the action at modern gastropub Gram & Dun, where every dish, from the starters to dessert, is lovingly crafted. Just go early, as patio seats on the Plaza are prime real estate.

To escape the hustle and bustle, chill out at Fox and Pearl on the Westside, where fire-roasted bites and a secluded patio keep guests entertained well into the evening. Or hop a ride on the streetcar to Muni, a date-night destination where Thai and Mexican flavors meet the tree-lined streets of River Market. Down the street, power lunches and after-work happy hours reign supreme at Harry’s Country Club, a casual classic beloved by many.

Skip the white tablecloth and replace it with paper napkins at Slap’s BBQ, a not-so-hidden KCK secret that offers the region’s signature smoky tastes like burnt ends, ribs and a smattering of savory sides. Or grab tapas any time of the day at La Bodega—then post up outside and couple it with refreshing sangria.

After you fill up on the competition barbecue at Char Bar, step into the backyard and start a friendly competition of your own. The Westport restaurant’s large assortment of lawn games includes croquet, bocce and sandbags—or just relax and curl up by the fire pits. If you're looking for something on the lighter side, head to Ruby Jean's Juicery, where a newly expanded patio complements a full menu of refreshing smoothies and juices.

Overland Park's Strang Hall offers an ideal outdoor gathering space for groups of all sizes. With a sprawling green space, convenient outdoor bar access and six kitchens serving everything from southeast Asian comfort food to modern and inventive tacos, there's something for everyone in your party.

Special Occasions

For ultramodern scenery and a chic patio setup, make your way to The Monarch Cocktail Bar & Lounge on the Country Club Plaza. Innovative drinks and lavish details make it a destination that always impresses.

During trips to The City Market farmers’ market (or any River Market-centric event, for that matter), seek shade underneath Taste of Brazil’s bamboo awning and cool off with the country’s national cocktail: a refreshing, authentically prepared caipirinha.

Find casual dining and plenty of shaded seating at Johnny’s Tavern. The Power & Light District pub is part of KC Live! Block, making it one of the most coveted porch locations the city.