River Market
A historic district buzzing with a vibrant City Market, a Sunday flea market, diverse dining, and scenic riverfront trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak market buzz & fresh finds
River Market
Best Time
Peak market buzz & fresh finds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic district buzzing with a vibrant City Market, a Sunday flea market, diverse dining, and scenic riverfront trails.
"The River Market is a must-visit for its lively atmosphere, unique finds, and delicious food options!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Markets
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Saturday City Market and Sunday Flea Market.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the market stalls and riverfront.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

City Market Delights
River Market District
A vibrant hub for fresh produce, international flavors, live music, and local artisan goods. A true sensory experience!

River Market Flea Market
Walnut St & E Fifth St, Kansas City, MO
Hunt for unique vintage clothing, antiques, and handmade crafts every Sunday. A thrifter's paradise!

Riverfront Exploration
Riverfront Trail
Enjoy scenic walks or bike rides along the river, with potential sightings of riverfront goats!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Market Buzz
Flea Market Finds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Markets
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Saturday City Market and Sunday Flea Market.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the market stalls and riverfront.
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
Many smaller vendors at the flea market prefer cash payments.
🎶 Enjoy Live Entertainment
Check for live music and performers, especially on weekends at the City Market.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Markets
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Saturday City Market and Sunday Flea Market.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the market stalls and riverfront.
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
Many smaller vendors at the flea market prefer cash payments.
🎶 Enjoy Live Entertainment
Check for live music and performers, especially on weekends at the City Market.
🍽️ Explore Diverse Dining
From brunch spots to international cuisine, the River Market has something for every palate.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the River Market's vibrant atmosphere, especially the Saturday City Market with its fresh produce and international foods. The Sunday Flea Market is a hit for unique finds. Some find parking can be a hassle, and certain areas might feel a bit dated, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive for its community feel and diverse offerings.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The River Market is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the area. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking to the market, especially from downtown areas.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options around the River Market and City Market. Be prepared for paid parking, especially on busy market days.
Absolutely! The Riverfront Trail provides a scenic route for cyclists. Bike rentals are also available, making it a great way to explore the area.
The River Market is very walkable. For exploring further afield, consider using ride-sharing services or public transport.
Generally, the main market areas and sidewalks are accessible. However, some older stalls or uneven surfaces might present challenges. It's best to check specific venue accessibility if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the River Market and its main City Market area is free. Some specific events or attractions within the district might have separate admission fees.
The River Market district has various shops and restaurants with different hours. The City Market typically operates Tuesday through Sunday, with peak hours on Saturdays. The Flea Market is specifically on Sundays.
For the full experience with the most vendors and lively atmosphere, visit on Saturday mornings. Sundays are great for the flea market finds.
Entry to the River Market Flea Market is typically free. You'll only pay for any items you decide to purchase from the vendors.
While service animals are always welcome, many vendors and restaurants may have policies against pets. It's best to check individual establishment rules.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You'll find a diverse range of vendors, including farmers selling fresh produce, artisans with handmade crafts, vintage clothing sellers, antique dealers, and specialty food purveyors.
The City Market and the Flea Market are excellent places to find unique, locally made souvenirs, from handcrafted jewelry to artwork and regional specialties.
Yes, the City Market is known for its international flavors and cuisines, with vendors offering goods from various global cultures.
Saturdays are the busiest and most vibrant for the main City Market, offering the widest selection of produce and crafts. Sundays are dedicated to the Flea Market for vintage and antique finds.
Haggling is often expected and welcomed at flea markets. Don't be afraid to politely negotiate prices, especially for larger items.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The River Market offers a fantastic array of dining, from casual food trucks and market stalls to sit-down restaurants. You can find everything from sushi and brunch to international street food.
Yes, the River Market is known for its excellent brunch options. The Farmhouse is frequently recommended for its delicious and well-prepared dishes.
For sushi lovers, there are several highly-rated options in or near the River Market. Reddit users often discuss their favorite sushi spots in the area.
The City Market is a melting pot of flavors, offering diverse international cuisines from various vendors and restaurants.
With the variety of vendors, you're likely to find vegetarian and vegan options, especially among the fresh produce stalls and international food vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the produce stalls, the bustling market atmosphere, unique vintage finds at the flea market, and scenic views along the riverfront.
Absolutely! The diverse people, lively interactions, and colorful displays make it a prime location for engaging street photography.
Morning light is often ideal for capturing the freshness of the produce and the energy of the Saturday market. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also offer beautiful light along the riverfront.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial use or if photographing specific individuals, it's always best to ask for permission.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A prime lens can be good for low-light situations or portraits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For active fun, the Riverfront Trail is perfect for family bike rides or walks. Kids will also love the potential to spot the riverfront goats. Some areas might have splash pads during warmer months, adding to the kid-friendly appeal.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
Many food vendors offer reasonably priced snacks and meals, allowing you to enjoy diverse flavors without breaking the bank. Walking or biking the Riverfront Trail is a free and scenic activity.
couples
In the evening, explore the diverse dining scene, from cozy cafes to trendy restaurants. A romantic stroll along the Riverfront Trail at sunset provides a picturesque backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the River Market: City Market
Beyond the edible delights, the City Market also showcases local artisans and crafters. Browse stalls filled with handmade jewelry, unique art pieces, pottery, and other handcrafted goods. It’s an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts. The sheer variety ensures there's something to catch every visitor's eye, contributing to the district's reputation as a picturesque and lively destination.
Pro-tip: Arrive early on Saturday to experience the market at its most vibrant and to snag the freshest produce before it sells out. The energy is infectious, and it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Sunday Treasures: The River Market Flea Market
The atmosphere on Sunday is more laid-back than Saturday's market, but the excitement of discovering hidden gems remains high. Many vendors are open to negotiation, so don't hesitate to politely haggle for the best price. It’s a fantastic opportunity to find unique pieces with a story and to support local sellers.
Insider Advice: Come prepared with cash, as many vendors may not accept cards. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of browsing!
Exploring the Riverfront
Visitors can rent bikes to explore the trail system more extensively. Keep an eye out for the riverfront goats, who are known to graze in the area and can be a fun sight, especially for families. The trail also connects to other parts of the city, making it a convenient artery for exploration.
This area is ideal for those looking to combine urban exploration with outdoor activity. It offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling market, allowing for a well-rounded experience of the River Market district.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit