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Touring to GEHA Area at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas Metropolis, Missouri for a Chiefs recreation must be on each sports activities fan’s bucket checklist, no matter allegiance.

The tailgating expertise is second to none. The stadium, whereas one of many NFL’s oldest, has lots to supply. And town of Kansas Metropolis gives distinctive, underrated experiences regardless of its small-town really feel.

So in case you’re planning on touring to Arrowhead for one of many Chiefs’ 10 residence video games (preseason included) in 2022, you’ll wish to be certain to maximise your expertise by hitting the most effective sights, eateries after which by trying out the wonderful tailgating scene.

Okay.C. has lots to supply, so to maintain issues streamlined, I’ll element a few of the finest barbecue joints on the town, plus some non-BBQ eateries and locations to go to. Then I’ll cap it off with tailgating ideas, really helpful straight from Chiefs Kingdom.

Kansas Metropolis BBQ

AP Photograph/Chuck France

You actually can’t go mistaken with any BBQ on the town. There’s one thing for everybody, and in case you requested 20 folks to rank their high spots, you’ll in all probability get 20 completely different lists.

Personally, I’ve had loads of BBQ in my day. So I’ll supply up my high 5, plus a handful of honorable mentions.

Gates Bar-B-Q

One of many classics. There are six areas throughout the metro — my go-to is the placement on Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard, but it surely’s value venturing to the one on State Avenue in Kansas Metropolis, Kansas in case you’re within the temper for some hen wings.

So far as the menu goes, the very best BBQ bang to your buck in Okay.C. is the “Nooner.” This magical meal is chopped burnt ends and your selection of sliced meat on a bun with a aspect of fries on the value of $5.99 (value could differ since final time I’ve been) on weekdays between 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. You’ll be able to nonetheless get the Nooner exterior of lunch hours and on weekends however the value goes up a bit — however belief me, it’s nonetheless value it.

Outdoors of the Nooner, I like a combined plate — a beneficiant combo of ribs, beef, ham and fries — if I’m feeling further hungry, plus a aspect order of beans. Many love a traditional “beef on bun” sandwich, and you’ll’t neglect a strawberry soda or a pleasant native beer.

Above all, simply put together for “hello, could I make it easier to?” to be shouted at Arrowhead-level decibels upon arrival.

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que

A favourite for a lot of, Joe’s Okay.C. — previously Oklahoma Joe’s — is essentially the most well-rounded and constant BBQ joint on the town on this author’s opinion. Their three areas (all situated on the Kansas aspect) supply tasty meats which can be cooked to perfection — there’s no marvel why the road typically pushes exterior of the door and generally wraps across the constructing throughout peak hours. Nonetheless, the road is well worth the wait and strikes quicker than you’d anticipate.

My go-to at Joe’s is the jumbo Z-Man, fries, mac-n-cheese and a candy tea. What’s the Z-Man, you ask? Per Joe’s menu, it’s “slow-smoked beef brisket, smoked provolone cheese, topped with two crispy onion rings, on a toasted Kaiser roll.” There are variations, too, with hen, pulled pork, and even portobello mushrooms for non-meat eaters.

I’m additionally keen on the Rocket Pig when it’s time to modify issues up, and I do know many who’re in love with the Carolina Pork Sandwich. Some simply go straight for the ribs and/or burnt ends. That’s okay, too — like I mentioned, every part is wonderful.

Jousting Pigs BBQ

This underrated joint is a bit out of the way in which, with areas in Liberty, Missouri (authentic) and the Legends in KCK (proper subsequent to Kids’s Mercy Park the place Sporting Kansas Metropolis performs). I’d counsel the Liberty location if attainable as that one has an exquisite brewery connected known as 3Halves Brewing.

Jousting is particular for his or her, effectively, specials. Every day they’ve an unique menu merchandise, whether or not it’s the rib recommendations on Wednesday, smash burger on Thursdays or the Brisket Philly on Saturdays. These specials can change, so be certain to name forward or verify their social media pages to seek out out what they’re having.

My private favourite at Jousting is the aforementioned Brisket Philly. It’s precisely the way it sounds plus extra — chopped brisket, peppers, onions and jalapeño cream cheese on a toasted baguette. It’s among the best specialty BBQ sandwiches in Okay.C.

When you’re on the lookout for one thing extra conventional, seize their pork stomach burnt ends or The Jester, the latter of which is a brisket sandwich with Texas toothpicks and smoked gouda. Don’t neglect the tacky corn — it’s on the spicier aspect however enhances every dish properly. Oh, and the banana pudding. Get the banana pudding.

Q39

One of many fancier BBQ joints in Okay.C., Q39 is younger however grew to become a staple moderately rapidly. You’ll drop a invoice right here, for certain, but it surely’s value it in case you’re on the lookout for a relaxed sit-down expertise.

When you get something at Q39, please, please get the “Finest Wings on the Planet.” No, critically, that’s what they’re known as, they usually stay as much as the title in case you ask me. The proper quantity of crisp and tenderness with a candy chipotle BBQ glaze that carries a touch of spice. Simply perfection.

What else you get is as much as you. I personally benefit from the Burnt Finish Burger, though it may be a problem to slot in your mouth. The Choose’s Plate is good if you wish to strive a little bit of every part, and it’s shareable (except you’re an enormous eater like me). I’ve a good friend who’s completely obsessive about the Smoked Beef Brisket Poutine. Actually, it’s a humiliation of (BBQ) riches.

Slap’s BBQ

Additionally comparatively new to the sport, Slap’s has a beautiful mixture of high quality and amount, and their costs aren’t too out of hand. Make sure that to get there by early afternoon — they keep open till 7 p.m. however will typically promote out of many menu gadgets a number of hours wanting that point.

I really feel like a damaged document once I say you possibly can’t go mistaken with any of their meals, but it surely’s true. I’ll often get a burnt finish and sausage combo or The Mike Johnson Sandwich, the latter of which incorporates jalapeño cheddar sausage, brisket, lettuce, BBQ sauce and white sauce on a pretzel bun. Wait, white sauce, you say? Heresy, certainly! Nope. It’s legit, and you must ask for extra on the aspect.

Talking of sides, Slap’s options my favourite aspect dish in Okay.C.: the baked potato casserole. Please, please get this in case you go to Slap’s. Thank me later.

Honorable mentions

Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque: One other traditional, Bryant’s BBQ has a loyal following inside and outdoors of Okay.C. I personally love a beef and pork combo sandwich with a aspect of beans. Their sauce is on the harsher aspect with a vinegar base as an alternative of tomato, however gives a distinct, distinctive type that many take pleasure in, myself included.
Buck Tui BBQ: New on the BBQ scene, this Thai-Okay.C. BBQ fusion gives a few of the finest and most original flavors in Okay.C. Get the brisket rangoons as an appetizer — they’re a should. My favourite dishes embrace the X Man sandwich or the pineapple rib fried rice with a aspect of mac & cheese.
Char Bar: A sit-down spot in Westport with among the best patios amongst Okay.C. BBQ joints, this spot has tasty sandwiches, distinctive apps and nice sides. I really like the jalapeño cheesy-corn bake.
Harp Barbecue: Tucked inside Crane Brewing in Raytown, Missouri, this joint is just open Fridays and Saturdays and runs till sellout. Get there early (like half-hour earlier than opening) if you’d like a great spot in line. It’s value it — Harp has a few of the finest meats on the town.
Jack Stack BBQ: For a lot of people in Okay.C., that is the No. 1 spot. It’s value visiting considered one of their six areas in case you’re within the temper for some sit-down ‘que and a few of the finest sides Okay.C. has to supply. I’d counsel any appetizer, a sandwich and/or the lamb ribs. Wait, lamb? Belief me, they’re tender and legit.
LC’s Bar-B-Q: One more traditional mainstay, LC’s has the most effective darn burnt ends on the town. Don’t anticipate to see something fancy on this menu. It’s not wanted — they let their meats do the speaking.

Heard nice issues, however haven’t visited but

Technically I’ve visited BB’s Lawnside Blues & BBQ, however I used to be a small youngster so I solely bear in mind the ambiance, not the meals. That mentioned, in case you take pleasure in some jams whilst you eat, that is the spot. They do cost a canopy on nights with bands, but it surely’s affordable.
I’ve heard great issues about Chef J BBQ, a craft BBQ spot that’s just like Harp with its restricted hours and open-’til-sellout menu.
The identical goes for Night Goat Barbecue which is just open Sundays from 11 a.m. to three p.m. at Fox and Pearl.

Kansas Metropolis eating places, breweries, meals and cinnamon rolls

AP Photograph/Orlin Wagner

There are such a lot of good non-BBQ spots and breweries in Okay.C. that it’d be inconceivable to checklist all of them. I counsel looking Kansas City’s subreddit to dive deeper into any particular suggestions. Within the meantime, listed below are a number of of my private favorites:

Breweries

There are eight breweries inside strolling distance within the Crossroads Arts District, plus many extra inside drivable distance. I’m keen on Double Shift. You’ve in all probability heard of Boulevard, the most important and hottest brewery on the town. City Barrel doubles as a brewery and kitchen with a high-quality seasonal meals menu.

Burgers

Town Topic is a traditional spot open 24 hours. Grandstand Burgers is large, greasy goodness, as is Tay’s Burger Shack. I’ve just lately fallen in love with Cosmo Burger, the most effective new burger spot on the town.

Pigwich has a variety of tasty burgers and sandwiches. Chiefs coach Andy Reid is a fan of their “Massive Pig” sandwich.

Cinnamon rolls

These deserve their very own class. Once you consider Okay.C. you consider BBQ, however many don’t notice that Okay.C. is the cinnamon roll capital of America as effectively.

Corner Cafe has ginormous, scrumptious cinnamon rolls. So does Donutology (each fried and baked). Stroud’s and Neighborhood Cafe serve them with meals. The very best on the planet, although, belong to Tin Pan, which you’ll must order forward of time and have delivered. They’re value it, belief me.

Extra cinnamon roll spots? Try this write-up from KCUR’s Gina Kaufmann.

Dessert

Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is a should for ice cream fanatics. They’ll often have Joe’s BBQ & burnt ends ice cream. Sure, you learn that proper. LaMar’s Donuts & Coffee has the most effective glazed donut. Ashleigh’s Bake Shop has excellent hand-crafted pies. M&M Bakery and Deli has excellent, effectively, every part.

Pizza and wings

Minsky’s is the most well-liked spot with a sturdy menu and sometimes great specials. Artègo has tacky bread to die for and scrumptious wings. The Peanut additionally has big, tasty wings with a loyal native following. There’s piece on high Okay.C. pizzas from Kansas City Magazine in case you’re on the lookout for particular kinds.

Extra eateries

I like V’s Italiano Ristorante for Italian and Bay Boy Specialty Sandwiches for cold and warm sandwiches. Longboards has killer wraps and bowls. Mainly, any Mexican spot on Southwest Boulevard is nice, however my desire is Tacos El Gallo. For fancier fare, seize a steak on the Golden Ox the place the Kansas Metropolis strip steak was born.

I haven’t but made it to El Pollo Guasave but it surely has rave evaluations. I additionally actually, actually need to strive Niecie’s Restaurant, which many suggest for the most effective soul meals within the metropolis.

Kansas Metropolis sports activities and locations to go to

Evert Nelson/The Capital-Journal through USA TODAY NETWORK

Okay.C. could not have an enormous arch or the world’s tallest buildings, however there’s nonetheless loads of enjoyable available and sights to behold. There’s the zoo, numerous museums and art exhibits, loads of shopping options, and naturally the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial.

Once more, I’d verify Reddit, Google and Visit KC for any particular suggestions. For sports activities followers, these are the locations to go:

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and American Jazz Museum

When you don’t do the rest moreover the Chiefs recreation whereas in Okay.C., no less than discover time to do that. The NLBM and Jazz Museum are linked, making it simple to go to each areas. Irrespective of what number of occasions you go you’ll study one thing new. After visiting, head over to The Blue Room (additionally linked) to have a drink and hearken to some great jazz.

The College Basketball Experience and National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame

These two are additionally linked and supply a novel museum expertise. You’ll study a lot about the most effective in faculty basketball after which have an opportunity to shoot some hoops and play numerous basketball abilities challenges. There’s a spot for teenagers to play, too.

Faculty sports activities

Faculty basketball begins in November, so take a look at the Kansas Metropolis Roos men’s and women’s basketball groups. When you’re prepared to drive about an hour exterior of city, the Kansas Jayhawks supply among the best faculty basketball environments within the nation at Allen Fieldhouse. When you’re prepared to drive about two hours exterior of city, the Mizzou football gives an important expertise as effectively.

These Mizzou soccer residence video games are near Chiefs residence video games in 2022:

Sept. 17 vs. Abilene Christian
Nov. 5 vs. Kentucky
Nov. 25 vs. Arkansas

Kansas City Current (NWSL)

The Present — a ladies’s soccer crew within the Nationwide Girls’s Soccer League — have a brand new soccer-specific stadium coming in 2024. Within the meantime, you possibly can catch them at Kids’s Mercy Park the place Sporting Kansas Metropolis of the MLS performs.

These Present residence video games are near Chiefs residence video games in 2022:

Aug. 19 vs. Angel Metropolis FC
Aug. 28 vs. North Carolina Braveness
Sept. 18 vs. Portland Thorns FC

Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL)

There’s no NHL crew in Kansas Metropolis (but), however you possibly can nonetheless take a look at skilled hockey at an reasonably priced value in Okay.C. The Mavericks play at Cable Dahmer Area in Independence, Missouri (9 miles east of Arrowhead). Watching hockey in individual is a lot enjoyable, and the cheaper seats up high are simply as enjoyable as watching up shut.

These Mavericks residence video games are near Chiefs residence video games in 2022:

Nov. 4-5 vs. Utah Grizzlies
Nov. 11 vs. Iowa Heartlanders
Nov. 12 vs. Tulsa Oilers
Dec. 23, 30-31 vs. Iowa Heartlanders

The ECHL season runs by means of April, so a few of the Mavericks’ residence video games might run close to potential Chiefs’ residence playoff video games as effectively.

Kansas City Royals (MLB)

Kauffman Stadium is a fantastic ballpark with an superior in-stadium Corridor of Fame expertise. The tailgating scene at Royals video games isn’t fairly as vigorous as Chiefs video games, however there are nonetheless loads of people out within the lot grilling away.

These Royals residence video games are near Chiefs residence video games in 2022:

Aug. 22 vs. Chicago White Sox
Aug. 23-24 vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
Aug. 26-28 vs. San Diego Padres

Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

Many dub Kansas Metropolis the soccer capital of America, with Sporting Okay.C. on the middle of all of it. Head over to the Kansas aspect to catch a soccer recreation. Make sure that to tailgate and, in case you don’t thoughts standing and chanting, seize a ticket within the Cauldron (however provided that you cheer for the house squad).

These Sporting residence video games are near Chiefs residence video games in 2022:

Aug. 21 vs. Portland Timbers
Aug. 27 vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Sept. 13 vs. D.C. United
Sept. 17 vs. Minnesota United FC

Tailgating ideas + inside Arrowhead Stadium

Gary Rohman-USA TODAY Sports activities

When you’ve determined to embark on a tailgate at Arrowhead, ensure you’re ready. Chiefs followers graciously provided some recommendations on Twitter to make your expertise extra seamless and pleasant.

Get within the grass

Parking in/close to the grass is an efficient tip in case you plan to have a big group and plenty of stuff (tables, tents, yard video games, and many others.). I want Lot L because it’s typically roomier over there, though it does require an extended journey to the stadium.

To get to Tons D or L, you’ll wish to go across the again manner on Raytown Highway and activate Sportsman Drive.

Don’t neglect the utensils

Nice ideas. Write down an inventory of utensils, meals, video games and different stuff you’ll want and cross off every merchandise earlier than you permit to verify they’re packed. It’s higher to overprepare as a result of when you get to the car parking zone there’s no alternative for a fast grocery retailer run.

Catch the midday video games

This can be a nice concept that even I haven’t thought-about (and I’ve tailgated aplenty). Clearly, that is solely doable if the Chiefs are enjoying in the course of the 3 o’clock slate or prime time.

Clear up after your self

Significantly, don’t depart your trash in every single place. There are many locations to throw your stuff away. And leaving stray coals around can cause fires, which I’ve seen occur within the tons earlier than.

Deliver a… pee tent?

Um, undecided what a pee tent is, however possibly give it a strive? Or, conversely, simply attempt to park close to a porta-potty.

Extra ideas

For these unfamiliar, Arrowhead Stadium shouldn’t be situated downtown. It’s kind of in the midst of nowhere on Interstate 70 about eight miles east of downtown Kansas Metropolis. When you’re in want of public transit or a experience, you must have the ability to get to the stadiums by means of RideKC, Uber, Lyft, or numerous taxi providers.
Arrive half-hour to at least one hour early previous to gates opening if you’d like a selected spot. Gates often open about three and a half hours earlier than recreation time, however double-check the Chiefs’ web site or app for official occasions.
Don’t neglect a bottle opener.
Don’t powerbomb anybody by means of a folding desk (this isn’t Payments Mafia). When you should, although, be certain it’s a Raiders fan.
In all seriousness, be good to opposing followers. Mess with them, certain, and discuss some smack. However don’t begin fights or give the remainder of Chiefs Kingdom a foul identify. We would like folks to really go to our metropolis.
When you’re an opposing fan, put together for some trash discuss. Nearly all of people will tease, however they received’t be impolite. If they’re, merely ignore them. When you’re made to really feel uncomfortable, communicate up. Most Chiefs followers (and stadium attendants) will come to your assist if somebody is appearing poorly.
For chilly video games, deliver cardboard, a rug or carpet to face on. Placing that between you and the freezing concrete will make an enormous distinction.
When you’re not tailgating however wish to be part of one, stroll round and ask folks in case you can be part of theirs. Provide some beer, meals or one thing else that contributes. In my expertise, most individuals are welcoming.
Like Corey talked about in his above tweet, head inside an hour earlier than kickoff. The traces might be hell in case you depart late and you might miss kickoff. Plus, you’ll wish to take a look at the within of the stadium and depart time to seize meals or one thing from the retailers.
Once you arrive, you’ll wish to take a look at the Chiefs Hall of Honor and the artwork throughout the stadium. When you don’t have time on recreation day to discover the stadium, it’s positively value booking a public tour for the total expertise.

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