City Guide: Running in Kansas City, Missouri

Looking for the top places to run, local running stores, group runs, and more? Here’s your guide to running in Kansas City, Missouri.

(Feature photo by iStock.com/Sean Pavone)

Article last updated November 7, 2025

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The Kansas City, Missouri City Guide is developed in partnership with The Running Well Store. Read more about The Running Well Store in the Running Stores section below!

Whether you’re in town for a Kansas City Chiefs game or visiting friends, Kansas City offers both city-center and nature-first running routes to log your miles. In fact, local destination races highlight the area’s best, such as the Cliff Hanger 8K that runs along a scenic byway in Northeast Kansas City, and the Kansas City Marathon, which gives a well-rounded tour of the city’s landmarks and neighborhoods.

After a run, stop by one of KC’s iconic local businesses for a beverage or bite to eat, including Boulevard Brewing and The Roasterie Coffee Company. And be sure to visit The Running Well Store for all of your running gear needs.

Bookmark this guide for your next trip to the Kansas City area. Rather than researching where to go, you can spend more time exploring new running routes and enjoying a post-run coffee.

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Running in Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City’s running scene blends Midwestern charm with a vibrant community spirit. Its diverse terrain means you can run past historic architecture, along scenic rivers, through shaded parks, or up challenging hills — sometimes all in the same route.

The community is exceptionally welcoming, with run clubs that thrive year-round, even in Midwest winters, and local races that feel like citywide celebrations. The combination of approachable Midwestern friendliness and deep civic pride makes KC’s running culture feel like a family you instantly belong to.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Kansas City, Missouri?

Kansas City has two great running seasons: April through June, and September through early November. In the spring, you’ll enjoy blooming dogwoods and redbuds, comfortable temperatures, and an exciting kickoff to race season. Fall months bring crisp temperatures and colorful landscapes. The mild weather this time of year is ideal for long runs and major races, such as the Kansas City Marathon.

Summers are humid, but mornings can be beautiful. And while winters are cold, running is manageable with layers. The local running community runs year-round, so you’re sure to find a group to join if visiting during the “off” season.

Where to Stay in Kansas City, Missouri

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Where to Run in Kansas City, Missouri

Cliff Drive Scenic Byway
This scenic byway features closed-to-traffic road running through Kessler Park with bluffs, wooded views, and historic stonework. Find street parking along The Paseo near Lexington Avenue. From there, get in 4.27 miles one way on the byway. You can extend your run through the Northeast neighborhoods or by jumping on a trail in Kessler Park (trail map here). Find more information on Cliff Drive here.

A park with a lake in the foreground and green grass and trees with fall leaves colors in the background on a sunny day — (Loose Park; photo by Mike Day/Visit KC)

Jacob L. Loose Park
Loose Park offers a scenic 1.4-mile paved loop with rolling hills, shaded areas, and a beautiful rose garden. Great for speed work or shorter runs. Run several loops or add on through the adjacent neighborhoods. After your run, be sure to visit the rose garden before heading to First Watch for breakfast or lunch. Park in the parking lot on Wornall Road, between West 51st and 52nd streets.

A female runner running through a park with green grass and a fountain behind her — (Mill Creek Park; photo by Ruben Gusman)

Mill Creek Park & The Plaza Loop
Loop around the Country Club Plaza area with scenic fountains, Spanish-inspired architecture, and access to Brush Creek paths. Depending on how you choose to extend your route, 3 to 8 miles is possible. Consider starting at the Fountain in Mill Creek Park, at West 47th Street and J.C. Nichols Parkway. There’s street parking around here — just be sure to pay attention to the parking signs! After your run, stop by the Made in KC Café for a beverage and a KC souvenir. Find more things to do in the Mill Creek Park area here.

A sidewalk trail lined with trees on the right and grass and lamp posts on the left, with a river farther to the left, on a cloudy day — (Riverfront Trail; photo courtesy of Visit KC)

Riverfront Heritage Trail
This paved urban trail connects the Riverfront, City Market, and historic West Bottoms. You’ll get a great mix of city skyline and river views along this route. Consider parking on Riverfront Drive and starting your run at Berkley Riverfront Park. There are plenty of path connections to get in a long run of 15 miles or more. Find a trail map here.

Shawnee Mission Park
About 25 minutes southwest of Kansas City, across the Missouri-Kansas border, you’ll find both paved and dirt trails with lakeside views, wooded paths, and hilly terrain. There are paved 4-mile and 2-mile options, plus 12+ miles of dirt trails within this 1,600-acre park. Find a trail map here. Visitor services and parking are located at 7900 Renner Road, Lenexa, Kansas.

Trolley Track Trail
Also known as the Harry Wiggins Trolley Track Trail, this flat, crushed-limestone path follows an old streetcar line. It’s perfect for out-and-back runs with charming neighborhood views. You can get up to about 12 miles round-trip, or tack on extra mileage through the nearby neighborhoods. Consider parking at the Brookside Shops, at West 63rd Street and Brookside Plaza. After your run, grab a coffee from The Roasterie or head down the street to Heirloom Bakery & Hearth. Find a trail map here.

As with any running route, take the necessary precautions for a safe run. Whenever possible, run with a buddy. Tell someone you know well where you’re going and when you expect to return, bring your cell phone and an ID, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Running Stores in Kansas City, Missouri

Storefront of a running store with a large sidewalk outside the front doors — (Photo courtesy of The Running Well Store)

The Running Well Store
The Running Well Store is the go-to destination for runners in Kansas City. Known for its personalized fit process, knowledgeable staff, and community-focused approach, the store stocks top brands including Brooks, Hoka, ASICS, and Saucony. Whether you’re a beginner or chasing a personal best, you’ll leave with the right gear to keep you moving comfortably. It’s the place for every pace!
Northland: 6040 NW Barry Road, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-741-8800
Martin City: 200 E 135th Street, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-437-9839
Lee’s Summit: 418 Rte 291, Lee’s Summit, Missouri; 816-600-2688
Mission: 6009 Johnson Drive, Mission, Kansas; 913-400-2013

Fleet Feet
Find top running brands at this well-known running franchise, with a location in South Kansas City and another across the state border in Overland Park, Kansas.
Ward Parkway: 8600 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-363-4800
Overland Park: 11908 West 119th Street, Overland Park, Kansas; 913-469-4090

Run Clubs in Kansas City, Missouri

We aim to keep this guide updated regularly, but things can change quickly! Before attending a run club on this list, call the associated store or check the group’s social media to confirm the date, time, and location.

Percheron Run Club
When: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
Distance: 3-5 miles
Starting Point: Crossroads Hotel at 2101 Central Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas Run Club
When: Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 3 miles
Starting Point: Mill Creek Park at West 43rd Street and Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, Missouri

River Bluff Run Club
When: Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.
Distance: 5K
Starting Point: River Market at 201 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri

9RUN3 Club
When: Fridays at 6:30 p.m.
Distance: Varies (typically 3-5 miles)
Starting Point: The Running Well Store at 6009 Johnson Drive, Mission, Kansas

Team 816 Run Club
When: Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.
Distance: 3+ miles
Starting Point: Rochester Brewing and Roasting Company at 2129 Washington Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Run it BlaCK
When: Saturdays at 8 a.m.
Distance: 1-6 miles
Starting Point: Ruby Jean’s Juicery at 3000 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri

Sunday Scaries Run Club
When: Sundays at varying times
Distance: 3 miles
Starting Point: Varies; check Instagram

Destination Races in Kansas City, Missouri

(Hospital Hill Run; photo courtesy Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation)
(Garmin Kansas City Marathon; photo courtesy Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation)
(Cliff Hanger Run; photo courtesy of KC Running Club)

Rock the Parkway
April | Kansas City, Missouri | Half Marathon, 5K
Rock the Parkway runs on Ward Parkway, a scenic and historic stretch of the city, and around Loose Park. Expect a downhill finish and lots of music on the course and at the finish.

Hospital Hill Run
May | Kansas City, Missouri | Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
This road race has been running since 1974 and is a Kansas City tradition. You’ll get a tour of the city, visiting Kauffman Gardens, Gillham Park, UMKC campus, and Brookside, with a challenging hill mid-course. After the race, enjoy food and beer (21+) in Crown Center Square.

Plaza 10K
September | Kansas City, Missouri | 10K
This flat and fast 10K course runs on the banks of Brush Creek and through Country Club Plaza, and it’s an ideal race for a PR. Enjoy live music and food from Kansas City-area restaurants after you cross the finish line.

Garmin Kansas City Marathon
October | Kansas City, Missouri | Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
Tour Kansas City along this full marathon route. You’ll run past the World War I Museum & Memorial, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and Country Club Plaza, among other landmarks and popular neighborhoods. Fuel up after you finish with food and a local beer (21+).

Cliff Hanger Run
October | Kansas City, Missouri | 8K, 5K
Enjoy the fall colors and a waterfall along these 8K and 5K race courses that run the Cliff Drive Scenic Byway in the city’s historic Northeast.

After a Run: Things to Do in Kansas City, Missouri

After a Run: Where to Eat in Kansas City, Missouri

The inside of a restaurant with stools lining a bar top and a long table with lights overhead — (Photo courtesy of Beer Kitchen)

Beer Kitchen — Just up the street from Mill Creek Park, this gastropub has hearty post-run fare and craft beer with a dedicated and extensive gluten-free menu. Weekend brunch features Drunken Donuts, a Waken Bacon Bloody Mary, and chicken and waffles.
435 Westport Road, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-389-4180

Different colors of beer in differently shaped pint glasses positioned on top of barrels — (Boulevard Brewing Co.; photo courtesy of Boulevard Tours & Rec)

Boulevard Brewing Co. — KC’s well-known brewery with an expansive deck and great views. In addition to beer, you’ll find hard seltzers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beer. Food includes pizzas, nachos, hummus and veggies, wraps, and subs.
Boulevard Brewing: 2501 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-474-7095
Tours and Recreation Center: 2534 Madison Avenue; Kansas City, Missouri; 816-701-7247

First Watch — Healthy breakfast and lunch chain with two locations less than two miles from Loose Park and The Plaza. Choose from several variations of both eggs Benedict and breakfast hash, plus omelets, frittatas, power bowls, and more.
1022 Westport Road, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-931-1054
2800 West 53rd Street, Fairway, Kansas; 913-236-7600

Heirloom Bakery & Hearth — Cozy neighborhood bakery with breakfast sandwiches, melts, salads, and coffee. The menu changes daily, driven by fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Great gluten-free options, too. Visit after a run at Loose Park or on the Trolley Track Trail.
401 East 63rd Street, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-492-7259

The outside of a cafe with a small patio with several people sitting at tables — (Photo by Made in KC and Blake Hamilton)

Made in KC Café — Local coffee and goods from nearby roasteries, bakeries, distilleries, and breweries. It’s a great stop for a post-run beverage and KC souvenir. The Plaza location, two blocks from Mill Creek Park, is often a starting point for group runs.
The Plaza: 306 West 47th Street, Kansas City, Missouri
1114 Baltimore Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-468-3831

Messenger Coffee Co. — You’ll find a three-story cafe and bakery with rooftop views at the Grand Boulevard location, perfect for post-run coffee and pastries. Enjoy a cold brew, latte, or chai alongside an almond croissant or slice of coffee cake. Several sandwiches, a breakfast burrito, and a hash bowl are also on the menu.
1624 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri; 913-669-9883
4771 Jefferson Street, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-437-8445

Rochester Brewing & Roasting Company — Combining coffee roasting and craft beer under one roof, this is a perfect stop any time of the day. On the coffee side of the menu, there are several cold brew varieties, an extensive tea list, and specialty lattes. The lineup of beers includes a coffee stout. And for food, choose from breakfast burritos and sandwiches (gluten-free bread available).
Crossroads: 2129 Washington Street, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-216-7181
Parkville: 100 South Main Street, Parkville, Missouri; 816-216-7181

Succotash — Funky breakfast and brunch spot in downtown Kansas City with vegan and gluten-free choices. After a long run, fuel up with the pork hash, a build-your-own burrito, or one of several versions of the kitchen sink.
2601 Holmes Street, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-421-2807

An egg and sausage breakfast sandwich on a plate next to a to-go coffee cup — (Photo courtesy of The Roasterie)

The Roasterie Coffee Company — Iconic KC coffee company with a great tasting room and cafe. Consider visiting the Brookside location after a run along the Trolley Track Trail, or the downtown Factory location, where you can tour the production floor.
Brookside Café: 6223 Brookside Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-333-9700
The Factory: 1204 West 27th Street, Kansas City, Missouri; 816-268-4652
Additional locations around Kansas City

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