spring is finally here. we've been out exploring more thrift shops, coffee spots, & tons hidden gems around kansas city, topeka, & lawrence lately. warmer weather means more little day trips, more iced drinks, and more random stops that turn into new favorite places. here are some spots i’ve been loving recently that are definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area.
#1 rexkc vintage clothing (west bottoms, kansas city) đź“Ť
love love love this spot so much!!! first time there today w my dad & sisters and it instantly became a favorite. millions of clothes — from levi’s jeans to baggy tees to accessories — and the vibes are phenomenal. it’s tucked inside an old building in the west bottoms on the second floor (jujitsu place on the first floor), which makes it feel like a hidden treasure. you could seriously spend years in here and still find new things. i wish we could’ve stayed longer honestly. maybe a birthday trip back this summer! definitely check it out if you’re in the area. price range is mainly $15–25.
#2 social service league thrift store (lawrence, ks) đź“Ť
hidden in an alleyway and super cute & tiny. shirts are $7 and below, which is honestly wild. you have to dig a little, but that’s the fun part — hidden gems everywhere. small space, simple setup, but totally worth stopping by if you’re thrifting in lawrence.
#3 arizona trading company (oak st, kansas city) đź“Ť
another fun thrift stop in kc. definitely more of a unique and eclectic vibe, but if you take your time and look closely you can find some solid pieces. prices are a bit higher ($$), but there are still good finds if you’re patient.
this place is honestly insane in the most unexpected way. the front of the store is SO bold and opinionated (lgbtq friendly - gross!!) with lots of political & awful statement pieces, so it’s not for sensitive people, so definitely be sure to wear a "freedom" or some sort of politcal trump-supporting tee, or Jesus is King... BUT if you walk all the way to the very back, you’ll find some epic sweaters, coats, and vintage pieces. it’s one of those places where you go in curious and leave surprised. worth checking out if you like digging through unconventional spots.
this place is always somethin. it’s a not-for-profit thrift store, so the clothing quality isn’t always top-tier, but you can absolutely find hidden gems (which is true anywhere honestly). i mainly love coming here for mugs, glasses, and random treasures. the men's section in the back has some cute finds (i sometimes prefer older, vintagey, men's sweaters, etc. if you're wondering what kind of style i prefer, i love love @mallory oinki's style from thepalatablelife.com. i saw the cutest sweater find, but didn't snatch it up last time. hoping it'll be there next time!!) i'd love to dig more in the frame section & books (to find the thick pretty books for decor!) the real hidden gem is the little thrift section inside judee’s coffee — i’ve found so many cute vintage pieces there, even tommy hilfiger brands. definitely worth a look.
cheapest and yummiest coffee in topeka. $2 lattes, friendly service, cute ambiance with plants & cozy seating. i love their seasonal lattes or a simple vanilla latte, and their cookies are phenomenal. right now, they have a new banana bread cold foam that is insane! pair it with a simple iced vanilla latte to sweeten & cool down your day. such a peaceful little corner to sit and relax. bring your Bible! highly recommend giving it a try.
tiny little coffee spot in a quieter part of town, but super cute. known for their boba and open later (until 6pm), which is always a plus. i love their iced matchas in the summer and their honey cappuccinos. not the cheapest, but still pretty reasonable. small, cozy, and worth stopping by.
#8 prairie trading co. (29th st, topeka, ks — across from coffeehead) 📍
right across from coffeehead and definitely a hidden gem. more of a boutique with high-quality brands, mostly women’s clothing, but a small men’s section upstairs. pieces that would normally be around $100 are often closer to $40. good place to find quality dresses for summertime!! great place if you want quality without paying full boutique prices.
cutest little cafe ever!!! tried it for the first time today and got their hot sunrise latte — phenomenal. warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for studying or just relaxing. limited seating but not too crowded on a weekday afternoon. lots of seasonal drinks, plus coffee, tea, matcha, and baked goods. super cozy and definitely a new must-visit kc coffee shop.
oh this place!! i love the smell of the books when you walk in — pure cozy heaven. the journals are the cutest and i could spend hours just flipping through them. upstairs is my favorite spot to sit, and their vanilla lattes are INSANE. seriously, one of the best coffee + book vibes you can get in manhattan. a total must-visit if you’re in the area and love cozy nooks, books, & really good coffee. i love coming here with my family after church!
this place is so stinkin adorable with the most beautiful dresses & skirts. located in the middle of downtown st. mary's (a prominent catholic town), on a corner in the prettiest stone building. their dresses are reasonably priced & the best quality. lots of different options & patterns. perfect for new moms! my love for dresses has gone crazy because of this store! so pretty!
of course i couldn't create a post without including circle. we haven't been in so so long, but just went again yesterday morning (04-18-26) & the nostalgia came rushing back (we used to go so much). i ordered their seasonal blueberry pancake latte & it was so perfect to sip on this saturday morning. the place is always hopping & their pastries run out quick, so make sure you stop by a bit earlier on the weekends. we know the owners & used to support them more, but just haven't been too often anymore. it is on the really pricey side (we spend almost $50 for 3 pastries & five drinks!) but it's worth the lil stop every once in a while. cute atmosphere in an old laundry mat!
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enjoy a new month the Lord has given to you! live for Him to your fullest & glorify Him always. pray without ceasing!
These are so aesthetic!!!