What to See in Lee’s Summit, Missouri

To check out what Missouri life was like in 1855, consider checking out the Missouri Town Living History Museum. This constructed village was never a real village, but it contains real buildings from the 19th century from around Missouri. Visitors to the town can see animal breeds that were around in 1855 and used in daily farm life. Along with the live animals and recreated people in the living museum, the buildings represent a typical town in 1855, including homes from the various classes. This way, visitors can see what life was like for all, and not just the privileged. Stores, a schoolhouse, a blacksmith, and a non-denominational church are also in the town.

8010 E Park Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64064, 816-524-8770

The Historical Society of Lee’s Summit and Museum is located in the old post office on Main Street. The building was built in 1939 as a part of the New Deal, which found jobs for millions during the Depression. When a new post office was built in 1962, the building became City Hall. In 2005, it began its transition into the historical society. While only open three days a week, the museum houses several artifacts, historical documents, and recreations of some local historical sites, like the Vogue Theater. Photos and stories about famous Lee’s Summit residents can also be browsed. Admission to the historical society is free.

220 SW Main Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063, Phone: 816-287-4477

Third Street Social is an American city-style social hub where diners can get brunch, lunch, or dinner. The owners of the restaurant wanted to bring the big city feel to the smaller town of Lee’s Summit. What does this mean for the menu? Dishes are high-end versions of some American classics. For instance, consider trying the Fresh Texas Redfish fingers (sweet potato fries coated with cracker crumbs and served with tartar sauce), the Third Street Meatloaf (including andouille sausage), or the Braised Duroc Pork Shoulders (served with grits, cornbread, and collard greens). Of course, sides are just as important in America, so be sure to check out the smoked gouda mac & cheese, the cheesy grits, or sticking an egg on anything.

123 SE Third Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063, Phone: 816-384-2123

Llywelyn’s Pub serves Celtic and American-style pub food at seven locations. For those who are going to a St. Louis Blues or Cardinals game, park at the pub and take the trolley into downtown to avoid parking costs. After the game, be sure to check out one of the over 40 beers on tap at the bar and some of the food offerings. Along with burgers and sandwiches, some popular pub fare is offered: braised pot roast, fish & chips (fries, of course), Shepard’s pie, or bangers (lamb sausage) and mashed (served with green beans and a mushroom cream sauce).

301 SE Douglas, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063, Phone: 816-272-5083

Nothing goes together better with beer than burgers. The two were made for each other, and at Wally’s Grill and Drafthouse, that’s exactly what diners get. Burgers are not the only food item on the menu, though. Along with sandwiches and full-sized entrees, the “Snacks ‘n Stuff” section on the menu offers great pub food like fried cheese curd, cowboy nachos (with pulled pork), flatbread pizzas, and fish tacos. Burgers can be taken to the next level with the house bacon and onion jam. Of course, dinner wouldn’t be complete without trying one or more of the 24 ice cold beers on tap. Wally’s serves cocktails and bottomless mimosas on Sunday and is one of the first to offer Moscow Mule flights.

837 SW Lemans Lane, Lee’s Summit, MO 64082, Phone: 816-537-3451