Heading back to the city after graduation? Here’s an exploration of Kansas City’s hot spots for post-graduates to discover!

The post-grad transition is a unique journey every young college grad must embark on once they’ve received their degree. At times it’s a difficult and isolating experience that often leads to a job in a new city. But doesn’t have to be so scary!

Read on for some recommendations to help you meet new friends, jump start your day or unwind after your 9-5. Whether you’re brand nw to the city or moving back, we’ll help you dive head first into all things Kansas City!

Oddly Correct and Blackhole Bakery

Navigating a new city, new job, and a new way of life can be overwhelming. Rewarding yourself on small wins or treating yourself on tough days is crucial at times just to get through the week. Enter: the unspoken duo that is Blackhole Bakery and Oddly Correct Coffee Bar. Both are located on Troost Avenue, separated only by a hop and a skip (a short six minute drive down the road)! These two stops are best enjoyed as one.

Blackhole Bakery

Blackhole Bakery has been a staple stop for fresh pastries on special occasions (or just a mandatory sweet tooth fix) since the moment I tried it. They are open weekdays (closed on Mondays) from 7am to 2pm, and weekends 8am - 2pm. Be warned that their goods are in high demand and you may even be greeted with a line out the door. Make sure you get there early because chances are they may run out of their most popular pastries and limited edition flavors. A must-try is their mochi donuts with a constant rotation of unique flavor combinations that will keep you coming back to indulge your cravings. Everyone behind the counter is delighted to help you pick out your pastries and answer any of your burning questions.

Oddly Correct

Once you’ve got your selection of pastries and treats, head down the road to Oddly Correct. They’ve nailed the name because after walking into this coffee shop you’ll soon notice how everything really does feel, oddly correct. Welcomed by natural light, you can find a spot to sit inside or outside on their large picnic benches. Funky artwork is displayed throughout the shop and the plethora of plants gives it an earthy yet modern feel. The baristas are knowledgeable about their coffee and ready to take your order at the coffee bar. They offer a unique system to prevent waste by charging you an extra $1 to receive a to-go cup which is a glass jar and lid accompanied by an Oddly Correct branded koozie. The jar is yours to take and reuse, but if you bring it back next time they omit the to-go fee! It prevents both excess waste and establishes a stronger customer and brand relationship.

King G

Missing a night out in your college town? This bustling bar located in the East Crossroads is reminiscent of a packed college sports bar with a more elevated and sophisticated feel, which makes it a perfect go-to spot for young professionals looking to hit the town. It’s a great location to meet up with friends or to make new ones. It’s a spot you’ll venture to for a drink…or three. You may even find yourself still there at last call!

King G has two levels with a large wrap-around bar as you enter, and a small patio on the side for fresh air. The second bar is located in their basement called ‘Pit Bar’ where you’ll find a smaller crowd in a more intimate setting. In the earlier hours of the day, King G is a functioning sandwich shop. Hit up King G’s if you are looking for a casual environment to enjoy a classic deli sandwich and a local craft beer or specialty cocktail!

Vintage Clothes and Antique Shopping in the West Bottoms

At times, being post-grad in a new city, it may feel challenging to leave the comfort of your home on a day off. You may be tired from a long week or anxious because you haven’t found your people in the city just yet. No shame in that! However, if you’re looking for an activity to get you off the couch and out of your apartment, I suggest spending an afternoon in the West Bottoms.

Browsing the many antique shops and vintage clothing stores that occupy the historic buildings can be a perfect solo or accompanied outing. Spend hours perusing curated storefronts and large markets full of vintage goods, furniture and clothing such as Bella Patina, Good JuJu or Rex Vintage. You’re bound to work up an appetite, so grab a bite to eat. The West Bottoms has many hidden gems and eateries to offer like Painted Rooster or The Ship. Local food trucks often pop up with all sorts of eats and treats as well! Maybe even enjoy a wine tasting from Amigoni Urban Winery.

Before setting out for the West Bottoms, make sure you check store hours. Some locations are only open on First Friday weekends in the city, but there’s plenty to shop on any given weekend as well. Who knows what you’ll find! From unique furniture pieces to one-of-a-kind artwork, you’re sure to see something you love. It’s a great way to bring life into what may be your first post-grad apartment. A little character and patina can go a long way to make your space feel more like home.

Mildred’s

Mildred’s is a fantastic stop for a sustainable breakfast before work or to refuel for the day after you and your friends were out a little too late (maybe at King G’s) the night before. They have three locations across Kansas City. I’ve dined multiple times at the Crossroads location and my friends request to go back anytime they’re in town. Mildred’s was named “Best Breakfast Sandwich” in Missouri by Food Network, which is a reason in itself to give it a try. Their breakfast burritos are just as good! This local cafe has all the details that make it an outstanding breakfast joint. Their popularity draws a crowd so be prepared to wait in line, especially on weekends. However, don’t let that deter you. They’ve got their system down and your coffee and breakfast will be out to you in no time.

Percheron Rooftop Bar

The talk of the town for good reason! In nice weather, it’s hard to beat having a cocktail on a rooftop with a gorgeous city view. Percheron is located on top of the illustrious Crossroads Hotel and is a hot spot to grab drinks and bites to eat, making it a great girls night or date night location. They’re known for their frozen cocktails and wood-fired pizza. There’s sure to be photo-ops with the Kansas City skyline surrounding you. Keep an eye on their events list!

Local Concerts at recordBar or GrindersKC

As a live music fiend, my bias demands I recommend local venues to attend concerts around Kansas City. My personal favorite way to enjoy and explore the city? Finding concerts or shows to attend! Nothing brings people together like live music. These events can be done solo, with a friend or an entire group!

A couple of fun and unique venues in KC include recordBar and GrindersKC both in the Crossroads Arts District. Located on Grand Boulevard, just across the highway from the Power & Light district and the T-Mobile center, is recordBar. This intimate venue hosts many touring and local artists as they make their way in the industry. Whenever I see an artist that I’m a fan of will be performing here, I am quick to buy tickets. The smaller space ensures the stage never feels too far away and there is not a bad view in the house. The floor is mainly a standing area with some high top tables available in the back, usually on a first come first serve basis. As the name alludes to, a large bar takes up the left side of the venue.

KC music enthusiasts rave about grinders, and with a tagline like “Where Art, Food & Music Collide,” this outdoor venue really has it all. Grab a slice of their New York style pizza and a cold beverage inside and head out back to the spacious yard that is home to a half-acre of open space dedicated to live music and events downtown Kansas City. It’s an experience that’s hard to beat. Exploring the Kansas City music scene is an amazing way to connect with the city and the people in it, so I challenge you to dedicate one of your post-grad Saturdays to attend a live event around you.