Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

City Market

Kansas City

MO

USA

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
December 23, 2014
December 14, 2017

Renovated in the 1980's, the market has since come back to life as a centerpiece for an entire riverfront district.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

The 140 market stalls, featuring fresh, seasonal produce and local arts and crafts from across the region, are surrounded by permanent shops, restaurants, and the popular Arabia Steamboat Museum - exhibiting an extensive collection of pre-Civil War treasures recovered from a sunken steamboat in the Missouri River. In addition to its role as a year-round weekend farmers’ market, the City Market functions as a special events and concert venue, a classroom during its “Farm-to-Table” kitchen classes, and a recycling center each Sunday at the community yard sale. The market’s incredible versatility makes it one of the top 10 most visited attractions in the city.

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Historic City Market, also referred to as River Market because of its proximity to the Missouri River, has been a Kansas City landmark since it first opened in 1857. The market has gone through many iterations over the last 150 plus years, from its beginnings as a venue for market commerce, political rallies, and medicine shows, to its current function as a shopping, dining, and event destination for locals and visitors alike. Since its renovation in the late 1980s, the market has received wide critical acclaim for its success as a fresh food hub and community nexus.

Related Links & Sources

Image credits: City Market Facebook, Chris Murphy via Flickr, Russ Matthews via Flickr

Follow City Market

Website: thecitymarket.org

Twitter: @TheCityMarketKC

Facebook: facebook.com/TheCityMarketKansasCity

City Market
City Market
City Market
City Market
City Market
City Market
City Market
City Market

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

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