Astro Bug

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - AstroBug -- Local shop owners in the West Bottoms are focused on the bright side of weathering 2020. The district's hallmarks include expansive areas where distancing is natural; an array of unique, quality items; and fun-themed First Friday Weekend activities.

Overall, however, 2020 West Bottoms traffic was sporadic at times, leading to an abundance of wonderful inventory. Blissful in the Bottoms, the theme for January's First Festival Weekend, captures the positives. The weekend event, from New Year's Day through January 3, projects the optimism for 2021 and good cheer for shoppers who will find specials throughout the district.

Blissful in the Bottoms extends into the street side with the addition of food trucks and photo opportunities. Those venturing into the West Bottoms experience stores by going from building to building, and floor to floor of these former historic warehouse buildings stocked with vintage, antiques, jewelry, and apparel.

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Serendipity KC, an area mainstay, expanded during the pandemic to occupy much of the first floor of the old Stowe Hardware and Supply building. The expansion has given them room to offer more variety, from décor items, antiques to t-shirts and novelty items.

Sincerely Ellis Clothing Boutique expanded into the Central Bag Company historic building with their consolidation of the Parkville store to this West Bottoms location. During the pandemic, fewer people were shopping for clothes. The shop owner is optimistic that the anticipation of "back to normal" and getting out will spur a desire for outfits and jewelry. They launched a line of uplifting jewelry, Always Queen, that inspires all to be treated like royalty in life.

"You don't have to be royal to be regal. I often refer to many of the store owners here as queens of the West Bottoms, and some kings too," said Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, West Bottoms district spokesperson. "Their tireless work has made this diamond-in-the-rough district into its timeless royal sparkle and luster."

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About the West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District:

The West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District, located just off the 12th Street Bridge, has 22 warehouses in a thirteen-block area with approximately 600 vendors and more than 25 stores and restaurants. Many of its large, multi-story buildings have histories starting over 120 years ago. These repurposed, vast spaces form the largest, year-round, indoor vintage entertainment district. The West Bottoms is the destination for interior decorators and designers, collectors, and consumers seeking stylish décor and gift options with history and patina that cannot be replicated. The new Full Moon Escape Rooms add another adventure option in the area.  westbottoms.com