DOWNTOWN. One of Kansas City's oldest institutions, City Market dates from the late 1850s, when farmers from all around would gather to sell produce and livestock, pick up supplies for the trip west, or just socialize. Today, the market is one of downtown's hotspots, and vendors still sell everything from fresh gooseberries, nectarines, and cantaloupes to Southwestern pottery, flowers, and clothing. In addition, the market boasts a variety of dining options ­ Winslow's BBQ, Succotash Bistro & Café, and Habashi House, to name but a few.

DOWNTOWN. Crown Center wears many hats, functioning as exclusive shopping center, residential community, concert and festival venue, lodging, and office complex. Home to the Hallmark greeting card company, Crown Center houses more than 50 specialty shops and a handful of restaurants and leisure facilities. Dining options include fine restaurants like the American Restaurant, Benton's Steakhouse, and the Brasserie, as well as more casual, family-friendly places like Crayola Cafe, d'Bronx, and Fritz's Railroad. During the winter months, Crown Center offers an indoor ice-skating rink, and the Kaleidoscope play area is a terrific place to challenge kids' creativity. The Hyatt Regency and the Westin provide some 1400 hotel rooms for visitors to the area.

OLATHE. This grand shopping center is popular throughout the Midwest for its wide range of retail offerings. The mall houses familiar chains and specialty stores, including Aeropostale, Bath & Body Works, and Limited Too. There's also a good assortment of clearance stores, including Eddie Bauer Outlet and Lane Bryant Outlet. Anchors include Steve & Barry's and Burlington Coat Factory. A food court is also available.

OVERLAND PARK. Located southwest of Kansas City, this shopping center has been around for more than a quarter of a decade and continually reinvents itself to meet modern needs. The mall's most recent incarnation unites aesthetics and utility, featuring ample lighting, cozy common areas, and scattered greenery. Anchor stores include Dillard's, JCPenney, and Nordstrom. In addition, Oak Park offers more than 185 specialty shops, a food court, and a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year.

LEAWOOD. One of the area's more attractive shopping destinations, Town Center offers a European-style setting, complete with red brick facades and open-air walkways. Several popular retailers operate stores here, making the place extremely popular with 20-something shoppers. Representative venues include Barnes & Noble, Banana Republic, Gap, Williams-Sonoma, and Coldwater Creek. Dining options include Panera Bread Bakery, Dean & Deluca, and Bristol Bar & Grill.