Unique Boutiques

Shop-hop in KC’s Crossroads

If you’ve heard of the trendy Crossroads Arts District, it’s more than likely because of First Fridays. The monthly art walk draws locals by the thousands, all looking for a good dose of gallery-hopping.

What you may not know, though, is that the Crossroads is also home to several unique boutique shops, housed in once-vacant warehouses. Even if art isn’t your thing, the shops in the Crossroads run the gamut.

You can literally dress yourself from head to toe with selections from the Crossroads, starting with the intimate apparel from Birdie’s, and working your way down to cool footwear from Habitat. Accessorize with funky glass jewelry from Aesthetica or the Mojo Collection. Both feature creations that were handmade by storeowners.

It’s East meets West at Black Bamboo, a store specializing in Asian antiques and modern home furnishings. For something more traditional, browse the vintage inventory at High Cotton. Then venture to Webster House, an 1885 schoolhouse that boasts the largest selection of fine antiques in the Midwest.

Looking for a unique gift? Check out the seasonal merchandise at Studio Dan Meiners. Known for its floral design, the studio also has an ever-changing mix of live plants, home décor and gifts for him and her. Create a custom gift by pairing your favorites in a basket. Or hand-select a box of sinful deserts at Christopher Elbow Chocolates. The chef’s artistic creations have everyone talking including Oprah Winfrey and Food & Wine magazine.

When you’re ready for a break, rest your heels and grab some joe at one of the Crossroads several coffee shops—like Mildred’s or Coffee Girls. There’s plenty of lunch spots too, from casual fare at The Cashew to fine-dining at Michael Smith.

Some of the Crossroads’ other hidden gems: hand-printed stationary and greeting cards at Hammer Press, trendy T-shirts and babywear at Spool; rare and hard-to-find books at Bloomsday; premium spirits at Cellar Rat and colorful home décor at Retro Inferno.