Top 10 BEST NEIGHBORHOODS in Kansas City for Pet Owners

Kansas City, Missouri, is a city that is steeped in history and culture, with a wealth of beautiful architecture and attractions. The city's diverse history is reflected in its many historic buildings and landmarks, such as the ornate Union Station, which now houses a science museum, and the stunning Country Club Plaza, a shopping and dining district designed in the style of Spanish architecture. Kansas City is also famous for its barbecue, with numerous restaurants throughout the city offering a wide range of delicious meats and sauces to satisfy any carnivore's cravings. For pet owners, Kansas City is a great place to live with many neighborhoods that offer ample green spaces, pet-friendly businesses, and a strong sense of community. These neighborhoods have been carefully selected based on a variety of factors such as access to pet-friendly amenities, the quality of life, and the number of green spaces. These factors ensure that pet owners can enjoy a high standard of living and easy access to everything they need to keep their furry friends happy and healthy. There is something for every pet owner in the Kansas City metro area. Here are the Top 10 BEST NEIGHBORHOODS in Kansas City for Pet Owners: #1 - Overland Park, Kansas Overland Park, Kansas is a beautiful and thriving city located in Johnson County, just southwest of downtown Kansas City. With a population of over 191,000, it is the second-most populous city in Kansas. One of the standout features of Overland Park is its ample parks and green spaces, making it an excellent choice for pet owners. The city's 83 parks cover over 1,800 acres, including the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, which features beautiful gardens and walking trails. Additionally, the city has a dedicated off-leash dog area within the popular Tomahawk Ridge Park, where pups can run and play to their hearts' content. Overland Park is also known for its high quality of life and strong sense of community. The city has repeatedly been recognized as one of the best places to live in the United States, and it's not hard to see why. Its residents enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the upscale outdoor shopping district of Town Center Plaza. The city also boasts excellent schools, a strong economy, and a low crime rate. In summary, Overland Park is an excellent choice for anyone looking to live in a vibrant and pet-friendly community that offers a high quality of life and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. #2 - Prairie Village, Kansas Prairie Village, Kansas is a charming suburb of Kansas City that offers a lot of amenities for both humans and their furry friends. It's a great neighborhood for pet owners, with a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. In addition to the Franklin Park off-leash dog park, Prairie Village has several other parks and walking trails, such as Porter Park, Bennett Park, and Meadowbrook Park. These green spaces are perfect for taking a stroll with your dog, playing fetch, or just enjoying the outdoors. The community is known for its walkability, and many of its shops and stores are pet-friendly. You and your furry friend can explore the area together and stop by the local coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Prairie Village also hosts several events throughout the year, including a Pet Parade in the summer and a Howl-O-Ween event in the fall, which are great opportunities for pet owners to socialize with other animal lovers in the community. Overall, Prairie Village offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a variety of amenities that make it a great place to live for pet owners and their furry companions.   #3 - Lenexa, Kansas Lenexa is a suburb of Kansas City, located in Johnson County, Kansas. The city has a population of around 56,000 and offers a strong economy, excellent schools, and a high quality of life. One of the highlights of Lenexa is its many parks, including the Lenexa dog park, which is a popular spot for pet owners. The park features separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, and water fountains. In addition, Lenexa Public Market hosts pet-related events throughout the year, such as a "Howl-o-ween" pet costume contest and an "Ugly Sweater" holiday party. Lenexa also offers easy access to major highways, making it a convenient location for commuters. The city is home to a number of businesses, including several major corporations, as well as a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Overall, Lenexa is a great choice for pet owners and families, with its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and abundant green spaces.   #4 - Brookside, Kansas City, Missouri Brookside is a charming neighborhood located in the southern part of Kansas City, Missouri. It is known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, which give the area a classic and picturesque feel. The neighborhood is primarily residential, but it also has a thriving business district that offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. One of the main draws of Brookside is its many parks and walking trails. The Trolley Trail is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. This 6.5-mile trail runs through Brookside and neighboring Waldo, and it's a great way to see the area's natural beauty. Brookside also has several smaller parks, including Border Star Park, Brookside Park, and the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. Roanoke Park, located just to the north of Brookside, offers even more outdoor recreational opportunities, including an off-leash dog area. Pet owners will be pleased to know that Brookside has a variety of pet-friendly businesses, including shops, cafes, and even a veterinary clinic. The area also hosts several pet-related events throughout the year, including a Dog Halloween Parade, which is a favorite among residents. Brookside's strong sense of community is another reason why it's such a popular neighborhood. Residents are friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of community events and activities throughout the year. The Brookside Art Annual is a popular event that takes place every May, and it attracts artists and visitors from all over the region. Overall, Brookside offers a great quality of life with its beautiful homes, lush greenery, and community spirit.   #5 - West Plaza, Kansas City, Missouri The West Plaza is a charming neighborhood located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri. It is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city due to its perfect blend of urban living and green spaces. The area is known for its beautiful homes, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. One of the highlights of West Plaza is its easy access to the Country Club Plaza, one of the most popular shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations in Kansas City. The Plaza features over 150 shops and restaurants, as well as a variety of art galleries and theaters. In addition to the Country Club Plaza, West Plaza also boasts several parks and green spaces, including Westwood Park, which features an off-leash dog area for pets to run and play. The park is a favorite spot for locals to walk their dogs and enjoy the beautiful scenery. West Plaza also has a vibrant cultural scene, with several art galleries and theaters in the area. The Unicorn Theatre is a popular destination for theater-goers, while the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit for art lovers. For pet owners, West Plaza has a variety of pet-related businesses, including pet supply stores and groomers. There are also several pet-friendly restaurants and cafes in the area, where you can bring your furry friend along for a meal or a cup of coffee. Overall, West Plaza is a great choice for anyone looking for an urban lifestyle with easy access to green spaces and pet-friendly amenities. If you're interested in learning more about this fantastic neighborhood, check out the West Plaza Neighborhood Association website or the Visit KC website for more information.   #6 - Waldo, Kansas City, Missouri Waldo is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. Located in the southern part of Kansas City, Missouri, it is known for its eclectic shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for those looking for a more urban lifestyle. The neighborhood also has a strong sense of community, with a farmers market, and many events and festivals held throughout the year. One of the standout features of Waldo is Tower Park, a 10-acre park that offers plenty of amenities for pets and their owners. The park has an off-leash dog area where pups can run and play, as well as walking trails and picnic areas where pet owners can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, the park hosts a variety of events, such as movie nights and outdoor concerts, making it a great destination for families. Waldo is also home to several other parks and green spaces, such as Meadowbrook Park and Cherokee Park. These parks offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. For pet owners, these parks provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with their furry companions. Another highlight of Waldo is its food scene. The neighborhood is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, with a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Some popular options include Summit Grill, which offers a farm-to-table menu and a dog-friendly patio, Waldo Pizza, a local favorite known for its delicious pizza and beer selection, and One More Cup, a cozy cafe that serves up coffee, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. In summary, Waldo is a great option for pet owners who are looking for a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with plenty of amenities and a strong sense of community. With its ample green spaces, pet-friendly parks, and delicious food options, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call Waldo home.   #7 - Roanoke, Kansas Roanoke is a charming neighborhood located in the center of Kansas City, Kansas. With its historic homes and numerous parks, including Roanoke Park which has an off-leash dog area, Roanoke is a great choice for pet owners. This area offers a strong sense of community and is well-connected to downtown Kansas City and a variety of cultural attractions. One of the most notable features of Roanoke is its impressive collection of historic homes. These homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century, have been lovingly maintained and restored, giving the neighborhood a unique character and charm. If you're interested in learning more about the history of Roanoke and the surrounding area, be sure to check out the Kansas City Museum, which is located nearby in the historic Corinthian Hall. In addition to its historic homes and charming parks, Roanoke is also home to a number of great restaurants, cafes, and shops. One of the most popular spots in the neighborhood is the Roanoke Park Cafe, which offers delicious food and a cozy atmosphere. For a more upscale dining experience, you might want to try Story, which offers creative and innovative cuisine in a beautifully designed space. If you're interested in spending some time in Roanoke, Kansas, there are plenty of things to see and do. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Roanoke is definitely worth a visit. If you're looking for more information about Roanoke or other neighborhoods in Kansas City, be sure to check out the Visit KC website. They offer a wealth of information about local attractions, restaurants, and events, as well as maps and guides to help you plan your trip.   #8 - Crossroads, Kansas City, Missouri The Crossroads neighborhood in Kansas City, Missouri is an incredibly trendy area that has a lot to offer pet owners. With a variety of pet-friendly businesses and several parks and walking trails, including Washington Square Park, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, the Crossroads is a great place for pet owners to live and explore. Washington Square Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of the Crossroads district. The park offers plenty of green space for dogs to run around and play, and is also home to several public art installations and sculptures. It's a great spot for a picnic or a stroll through the park with your furry friend. One of the most notable pet-friendly businesses in the Crossroads is Barkley, an advertising agency that prides itself on being a dog-friendly workplace. The company encourages its employees to bring their dogs to work and even has a rooftop dog park for their furry friends to play in. Another popular spot for pet owners in the Crossroads is the Tannin Wine Bar and Kitchen. This restaurant not only offers delicious food and drinks but also welcomes pets to join their owners on their outdoor patio. The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is another popular attraction in the Crossroads that pet owners can enjoy with their furry friends. The center hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year and has plenty of outdoor space for dogs to explore and enjoy. If you're looking for a great place to live in the Crossroads, check out the Union Carbide building. This historic building has been converted into a luxury apartment complex that welcomes pets and even has an on-site dog park. Overall, the Crossroads neighborhood in Kansas City, Missouri is a fantastic place for pet owners to call home. With plenty of pet-friendly businesses and outdoor spaces to explore, you and your furry friend are sure to love living in this vibrant and eclectic area.   #9 - Mission Hills, Kansas Mission Hills is an upscale neighborhood located in Johnson County, Kansas, just south of Kansas City, Missouri. It is known for its luxurious and spacious homes, well-manicured lawns, and quiet streets. Mission Hills is an ideal location for pet owners who enjoy walking, with its many parks and walking trails. One of the most popular parks in Mission Hills is the 12-acre Franklin Park, which has a walking trail, playground, picnic areas, and tennis courts. There is also the Indian Hills Country Club, which is a great place for dog owners to socialize and meet new friends while enjoying some golfing or dining. In addition to its beautiful green spaces, Mission Hills is also known for its excellent schools, making it a great place for families with children. The neighborhood is served by the Shawnee Mission School District, which consistently ranks as one of the top school districts in the state of Kansas. Overall, Mission Hills is a fantastic neighborhood for pet owners who value a high quality of life and a sense of community. With its spacious homes, beautiful parks, and excellent schools, it is no wonder that Mission Hills is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the Kansas City area.   #10 - River Market, Kansas City, Missouri The River Market area in Kansas City, Missouri is a historic neighborhood located in the northern part of downtown. It is named after the farmer's market that has been operating there since the mid-19th century, which is still a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Aside from the farmer's market, the River Market area is also home to a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes, many of which are pet-friendly. For example, the Quay Coffee shop is known for its excellent coffee and welcoming atmosphere for dogs, while the City Market Seafood Company is a great spot to grab some fresh seafood and enjoy the outdoor patio with your furry friend. Another notable attraction in the area is the Riverfront Heritage Trail, which provides a scenic route for walking, running, or biking along the Missouri River. Although pets are not allowed on the trail, there are several parks in the area where dogs can stretch their legs and enjoy some outdoor playtime. Overall, the River Market area is a charming and historic neighborhood that offers plenty of options for pet owners to explore with their furry friends. From the farmer's market to the scenic riverfront trail and pet-friendly businesses, there's something for everyone in this vibrant part of downtown Kansas City. Whether you're looking for a laid-back suburban lifestyle or an urban oasis, Kansas City has something to offer everyone. So why not join the many happy pet owners who have made this wonderful city their home? Come and discover all that Kansas City has to offer you and your furry friend!

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Be First to Ride Worlds of Fun Zambezi Zinger and Support Pediatric Cancer Research!

Are you a thrill-seeker with a heart for charity? If so, you won't want to miss your chance to be the first to ride the re-imagined Zambezi Zinger roller coaster at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City! Your donation to Big Slick, a non-profit organization that supports pediatric cancer research at Children's Mercy, could give you a chance to ride the Zambezi Zinger before anyone else. Worlds of Fun is holding a much-anticipated fundraiser called the Zambezi Zinger First Rider Expedition, with all proceeds going to Big Slick. The more money you donate, the more entries you'll receive to be the first to ride the return of the Zambezi Zinger, VIP Access to the Grand Opening Celebration, a front-row seat to live entertainment, catered food, an exclusive merchandise pack and MUCH MORE! The park is offering up to 32 seats on two trains during Zambezi Zinger's first ride when it opens later this spring. 100% of funds raised goes to Big Slick in support of Children's Mercy pediatric cancer research, the leading independent children's health organization dedicated to holistic care, translation research, education caregivers, and breakthrough innovation to create a world of well-being for all children in Kansas City, MO. Donations can be made until the contest closes on April 2, 2023, at 11:59 PM. Big Slick will conduct a random draw on April 3 from all the entries to select the 32 riders, who will be contacted that day. Winners will then have 24 hours to respond to claim their spot. So why not make a difference in the lives of children battling cancer and potentially become the first to ride the Zambezi Zinger? Learn more about Big Slick and how your fundraising can make a difference. Join in on the fun, and support a great cause! SIGN UP HERE! SEE OFFICIAL RULES: https://www.prizeo.com/campaigns/big-slick/be-the-first-rider-on-zambezi-zinger/official-rules

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Building For Wellbeing: How Real Estate Can Promote Positive Mental Health

When we think about real estate, we often focus on practical considerations like location, size, and cost. But there's another important factor to consider: how the built environment impacts our mental health. From the layout of a home to the design of a neighborhood, the spaces we inhabit have a profound effect on our wellbeing. When considering how real estate can promote your mental health, here are a few things to consider in your next home: Natural Light and Fresh AirStudies have shown that exposure to natural light and fresh air can have a positive effect on our mood and overall wellbeing. Homes and buildings that are designed to maximize natural light and ventilation can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Additionally, access to green space and outdoor areas can provide a sense of calm and relaxation. Functional DesignA well-designed space should be functional and efficient, with a layout that promotes ease of movement and reduces clutter. For example, a home with an open floor plan can create a sense of spaciousness and allow for better flow between rooms. On the other hand, a home with too many walls or a confusing layout can be stressful and overwhelming. Community SpacesThe built environment doesn't just refer to individual homes and buildings - it also encompasses the neighborhoods and communities in which we live. Neighborhoods with access to community spaces, such as parks, libraries, and community centers, can foster a sense of connection and social support. Additionally, neighborhoods with walkable streets and access to public transportation can promote physical activity and reduce stress associated with long commutes. Safety and SecurityFeeling safe and secure in our homes and communities is essential for our mental health. Real estate developers can promote safety and security through features like gated communities, security cameras, and well-lit streets. Additionally, homes that are designed with safety in mind - such as homes with fire sprinklers or earthquake-resistant construction - can provide peace of mind for residents. Accessible DesignFinally, real estate that is designed with accessibility in mind can promote mental health by allowing people of all ages and abilities to live comfortably and independently. Features like wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and no-step entries can make a home more welcoming for people with disabilities, as well as for aging adults who may have mobility issues. In conclusion, the built environment plays a critical role in our mental health and wellbeing. Prioritize features like natural light, functional design, community spaces, safety, and accessibility to create spaces that promote mental and emotional health for residents. By paying attention to these factors, we can build homes and communities that support our overall wellbeing. Are you looking for a new community or a home that better supports your mental health? I'd love to help. Send a text to 816.882.3970 or email jana((at))royalfoxkc((dot))com.

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