For decades, the Kansas City Riverfront was a forgotten industrial stretch, disconnected from the city it birthed.Today, it is one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving districts in the Midwest. Located on the south bank of the Missouri River, just north of downtown, the Berkley Riverfront has transformed from a former tow lot and dumping ground into a premier lifestyle destination. Anchored by the groundbreaking CPKC Stadium—the world’s first stadium built specifically for a professional women’s sports team—the area buzzes with energy, drawing thousands of fans, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers to the water’s edge.
Riverfront Things to Do
The Kansas City Riverfront has evolved from industrial afterthought to one of the city’s most compelling destinations for outdoor recreation, waterfront dining, and urban living. Whether you’re here for a KC Current match, a morning trail run, or simply to reconnect with the Missouri River that founded this city, the district delivers experiences you won’t find elsewhere in the metro.
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Kansas City Berkley Riverfront Park
Berkley Riverfront Park serves as the district’s 17-acre anchor, offering green lawns, native plantings, and an esplanade that traces the Missouri River’s edge. The park is purpose-built for active use—sand volleyball courts, a fitness court, and direct trail access make it a hub for runners, cyclists, and outdoor fitness classes. On match days, the Great Lawn transforms into a pre-game gathering spot for KC Current fans.
Beyond athletics, the park functions as a contemplative space with sweeping views of the Bond Bridge and downtown skyline. Unlike the more structured entertainment offerings at Crown Center three miles south, Berkley Riverfront Park rewards visitors who want unscripted time outdoors. The 15-mile Riverfront Heritage Trail also connects directly to the West Bottoms, making it possible to bike from the river’s edge to the historic warehouse district without touching a main road.
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Riverfront Market Kansas City?
While the Riverfront district itself doesn’t host a traditional farmers market, its proximity to the historic City Market in the adjacent River Market neighborhood fills that gap. A 10-minute walk across the Town of Kansas Bridge connects Berkley Riverfront to one of the Midwest’s oldest public markets, where over 30 vendors sell fresh produce, spices, flowers, and prepared foods year-round.
This connection matters for Riverfront visitors planning a full day. A morning trail ride or walk can easily transition into market browsing and brunch at nearby restaurants like The Brown & Loe or Hien Vuong. From the River Market, you’re also a short streetcar ride to Power & Light for evening entertainment or 18th and Vine for jazz history—making the Riverfront an ideal starting point for a car-free Kansas City day.
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Kansas City Riverfront Apartments
The Riverfront has become one of Kansas City’s most sought-after residential addresses, with luxury developments like Union Berkley Riverfront and The Core offering modern units with river views, rooftop amenities, and direct trail access. These aren’t typical downtown high-rises—the emphasis here is lifestyle integration, with fitness centers, dog parks, and walkable access to CPKC Stadium and Berkley Riverfront Park.
For prospective residents weighing riverfront living against established neighborhoods like Brookside, Waldo, or the Suburbs, the trade-off is clear: smaller square footage in exchange for walkability, urban energy, and a front-row seat to the city’s most dynamic redevelopment zone. Those seeking nightlife proximity might also compare options in Westport or along 39th Street, while buyers prioritizing upscale retail often look toward The Country Club Plaza—roughly three miles south. The Origin Hotel offers extended-stay options for those testing the waters before committing to a lease.
The Riverfront creates a unique intersection of green space and professional sports.
- Berkley Riverfront Park: The district’s centerpiece, featuring 17 acres of green space, an esplanade for walking and cycling, and native landscaping. It is a popular spot for picnics, yoga, and watching the river currents.
- CPKC Stadium: Home of the Kansas City Current (NWSL). Even on non-match days, the stadium is an architectural landmark. Its open U-shape design allows noise to stay in while offering fans views of the Missouri River.
- Riverfront Heritage Trail: A fully accessible 15-mile bicycle and pedestrian pathway that connects the Riverfront to the West Bottoms and downtown.
- Bar K: More than just a dog park, this is a two-acre distinctive destination featuring a bar, restaurant, and event space built out of repurposed shipping containers, located directly under the Heart of America Bridge.
- Town of Kansas Bridge: A pedestrian bridge located at the foot of Main Street.Visitors can walk out over the river and descend stairs or an elevator to the riverbank, following the path of the city’s original settlers.
What draws visitors to explore the Kansas City riverfront?
One of the big draws is the expansive 15-mile Riverfront Heritage Trail — a paved bike/walking route that runs along the Missouri River and links several parks and downtown neighborhoods, offering skyline views and direct access to riverside green space.
Along the trail you’ll reach Berkley Riverfront Park, which recently added amenities like sand-volleyball courts and a fitness court — perfect for anyone wanting active outdoor recreation right by the river.
For many locals and visitors seeking Outdoors fun in Kansas City, the riverfront delivers a rare blend: water views, trails, open-air fitness and a chance to connect with nature, all within easy reach of downtown.
Dining on the Riverfront is defined by open-air concepts and modern Americana.
- Show Pony: Located inside the Origin Hotel, this restaurant offers a “neo-Americana” menu featuring bourbon chicken, smashed burgers, and playful dishes in a retro-inspired setting.
- Two Birds One Stone: An laid-back outdoor beer garden and cocktail lounge offering local brews and river views, perfect for pre-game gatherings or sunset drinks.
- River Market Proximity: While limited strictly on the riverbank, the district is a 10-minute walk (via the Town of Kansas Bridge) from the City Market, which hosts over 30 restaurants including The Brown & Loe, Blue Nile, and Hien Vuong.
Are there riverfront-adjacent dining or hangout spots near the Kansas City Riverfront?
Yes: part of the appeal of riverfront parks and trails around KC is how close dining and local eateries sit to leisure spaces. For example, near the trail or adjacent neighborhoods, visitors often combine a walk along the river with a meal or drink in historic districts or nearby local markets. While not every restaurant sits directly on the water, the proximity and ease of access make it convenient for a relaxed, casual meal after a riverside stroll.
For groups looking for a social outing — whether friends or families — the riverfront + dining setup pairs nicely with Parties in KC or group-oriented plans: you get outdoor activity, scenic views, and afterward a comfortable place to sit, eat, and unwind.
The Riverfront hosts some of the city’s most exclusive and high-energy gatherings.
- CPKC Stadium: Beyond soccer, the stadium serves as a venue for concerts, corporate events, and beer festivals, leveraging its waterfront location.
- The Union: The event space within the Union Berkley apartments often hosts community mixers and private events.
- Berkley Riverfront Park: The Great Lawn is frequently utilized for large-scale festivals, 5K run start/finish lines, and outdoor fitness classes.
Does the riverfront area offer venues or spaces suitable for gatherings?
Yes — the riverfront’s redevelopment plans around Berkley Riverfront include open-space design aimed at community events, social meetups, and cultural gatherings, with future public-space amenities intended for flexibility.
Because the area offers sweeping river views, open-air settings, and connectivity, it’s ideal for those planning social outings or relaxed evening hangs. That makes it a good fit if you’re browsing for Adults in KC or Young Adults recreation — mixing outdoor ambience with urban-edge convenience.
The calendar is dominated by sports and seasonal festivals.
- KC Current Matches: From spring to fall, match days transform the district into a sea of teal. The atmosphere is electric, with tailgating and marches to the stadium.
- KC RiverFest: The city’s premier Independence Day celebration (historically held here, though venues occasionally rotate), featuring massive fireworks displays over the Missouri River.
- Walktober: An annual event series in October encouraging exploration of the riverfront trails with art installations and guided tours.
- Global Roots Festival: A celebration of Kansas City’s diverse heritage often held in the park, featuring international music and food.
What kinds of events happen at or near the Kansas City riverfront?
The riverfront — particularly around Berkley Riverfront — has been used for public events, gatherings, and community-oriented programming, especially in its revitalization plans to reconnect the city with its waterways and public spaces.
Because of these improvements and the accessibility of the trail and green spaces, many locals use the riverfront for seasonal outings, group picnics, casual meetups, and sunset walks — a kind of easy-to-arrange leisure that appeals to those looking for Adventures that don’t require a formal booking or schedule.
- Location: 1298 Riverfront Dr, Kansas City, MO 64120.
- Boundaries: Bounded by the Missouri River to the north, the BNSF railway tracks to the south, the Kit Bond Bridge to the east, and the Heart of America Bridge to the west.
- Connections: Connected to the River Market via the Town of Kansas Bridge and the Grand Viaduct (pedestrian and vehicle).
How is the Kansas City Riverfront area laid out?
Because the Riverfront Heritage Trail spans 15 miles, with multiple access points such as parking at various parks and connections to downtown streets and bridges, it’s very navigable for pedestrians, bikers, or casual visitors — making it simple to build a flexible route whether you want a short walk or a longer exploration.
Also, parks along the riverfront (like Berkley Riverfront) are being connected with transit and urban-development plans, which improves accessibility from other parts of the city — a benefit for anyone visiting without a car who wants to enjoy riverfront spaces.
Riverfront FAQ
What is the Riverfront?
The Riverfront (specifically the Berkley Riverfront) is a 55-acre development zone on the south bank of the Missouri River. It is managed largely by Port KC (Port Authority of Kansas City). Once an industrial wasteland, it has been remediated and redeveloped into a mixed-use neighborhood emphasizing fitness, nature, and entertainment.
What’s the broader context for Kansas City’s riverfront?
Historically, the riverfront served industrial and transport purposes, but in recent years there’s been a push — led by agencies like Port KC — to reconnect the city with its river by creating accessible green space, public-use trails, and recreational amenities along the waterfront.
Because of flooding, pollution, and past neglect, some parts of the riverfront had been underused — but the revitalization efforts aim to turn those areas into safe, welcoming parks and public spaces for recreation and community.
Today, that makes the riverfront a unique hybrid: a natural setting, a public-space network, and an urban amenity all at once — offering both escape and city-life proximity in Kansas City.
What is near the Riverfront?
Popular places near the Riverfront, include:
- River Market: The historic neighborhood directly south, known for the City Market (farmers market) and Steamboat Arabia Museum.
- Columbus Park: A historic Italian and Vietnamese neighborhood located just southeast of the Riverfront.
- Isle of Capri Casino: Located slightly east of the main Berkley park area.
What kind of experiences does the Riverfront offer?
Popular kinds of experiences at the Riverfront, include:
- Sports: Elite women’s soccer matches at CPKC Stadium.
- Recreation: Cycling, running, and sand volleyball courts within the park.
- Social: Socializing and riverside drinking at outdoor beer gardens or just walk the trails along the river.
Where to stay in the Riverfront?
Origin Hotel Kansas City: The district’s first full-service hotel. It is a boutique property with 118 rooms, a fitness center, and direct access to the river trails. It is the official hotel partner of the KC Current.
What kind of accommodations are available in the Riverfront?
The Origin Hotel offers a lifestyle boutique experience, often themed around the local culture and the river. For longer stays, there are luxury apartment complexes like Union Berkley Riverfront and The Core, which occasionally offer corporate housing options.
What kind of transportation options are available near the Riverfront?
- KC Streetcar: The Riverfront Extension (connecting the River Market to a stop near Union Berkley/CPKC Stadium) allows free travel from the Riverfront through Downtown, Crossroads, and to UMKC.
- RideKC Bike: Electric assist bikes and scooters are heavily deployed in this area for last-mile transit.
- Parking: While there is surface parking, it is limited on game days. Visitors are encouraged to park in the River Market and walk across the bridge or take the Streetcar.
What kind of visitor experience can you have at the Kansas City riverfront?
A great plan for a half-day visit is to start early with a bike ride or walk on the Riverfront Heritage Trail, enjoy riverside views, maybe picnic or relax in green space at Berkley Riverfront, then head into nearby downtown districts for food or a drink. That kind of flexible, partly-outdoor, partly-urban day works especially well for people wanting Summer or Outdoors time without strict scheduling.
For a full-day — combine the trail with local neighborhood exploration, visit nearby cultural or historical sites, then wrap up with an evening meetup or social gathering along the water or in town. The riverfront’s mix of access, natural beauty, and connectivity makes it a versatile base or “backdrop” for almost any kind of KC outing.
What is the history of the Riverfront?
This area was the site of the original Town of Kansas settlement in the 1830s, acting as the gateway to the West. As the city expanded south, the riverfront became an industrial zone and eventually a dumping site for construction debris. In the late 20th century, Port KC began a massive environmental remediation project. Berkley Riverfront Park opened in 1998, named after former Mayor Richard Berkley, but significant commercial development only accelerated in the late 2010s with the construction of apartments and the announcement of the stadium.
What’s the background of Kansas City’s riverfront?
Like many American riverfronts, KC’s rivers were once hubs of commerce, shipping, and industry — with warehouses, docks, and shipping infrastructure lining the banks. Over decades, as industrial use declined, many of those areas were abandoned or underused.
In recent years, redevelopment efforts spearheaded by Port KC and civic planners have aimed to reclaim those riverfront zones — adding trails, open-space design, public-access parks, and connectivity to downtown and neighborhoods.
That transition reflects a broader urban shift: from river as industrial backbone, to river as civic amenity — giving Kansas City a renewed sense of place, nature, and urban-waterfront identity.
Where to shop in the Riverfront?
Retail is currently emerging.
- Kansas City Current Team Store: Located at CPKC Stadium, selling team apparel and merchandise.
- Local Pop-ups: During events and match days, mobile vendors often set up shop.
- Nearby: Extensive shopping is available just across the pedestrian bridge in the River Market (Planters Seed & Spice, River Market Antiques).
Are there retail or local-business opportunities directly on the riverfront?
At present, the riverfront — especially the newer or redeveloped parks and trails — remains primarily oriented toward recreation, nature, and public-space usage rather than retail or commercial shopping complexes. Development plans focus on green space, amenities, public access, and connectivity rather than mass retail.
That said, as surrounding neighborhoods evolve and revitalization continues, it’s possible that adjacent areas (nearby downtown districts or emerging mixed-use zones) may host shops or small businesses — but the core riverfront remains a place for outdoor experiences, community, and leisure rather than shopping malls or retail corridors.
The Kansas City Riverfront stands as proof that a city can reclaim what it once neglected. What was once a tow lot and dumping ground is now a district defined by world-class women’s soccer, miles of accessible trails, and a residential community rooted in active living. Its connectivity—to the River Market, Northeast Kansas City, Columbus Park, and soon the full KC Streetcar line through Southwest Blvd and beyond—positions the Riverfront not as an isolated attraction but as an integrated piece of the Kansas City experience. Whether you’re here for a match, a morning run, or a long weekend exploring the Missouri River’s edge, the Riverfront rewards those who show up ready to move.