Riverside Visitor Guide
Welcome to Riverside, a vibrant destination blending rich history, unique culture, and endless exploration opportunities. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or an extended stay, this guide covers everything you need to plan your visit. For travelers with mobility needs, we’ve got you covered—see our recommendation below!
History
- Riverside was founded in 1844 as a riverfront trading post along the Missouri River, evolving from a settlement known as “East of Parkville” or “Brenner Ridge” into a thriving community.
- It played a key role in westward expansion as a stop on the Oregon and California Trails, with the Union Pacific Railroad in the 1860s boosting grain shipping and growth.
- Incorporated in 1951 to avoid annexation by Parkville and Kansas City, led by locals like Edward Young, Ferd Filger, and Dr. Thomas M. Eagle; the area faced Civil War violence due to its German-American families.
Interesting Facts
- Riverside’s population is 4,153 (2023), with a dense suburban feel, 70.1% White residents, and a median household income of $51,850, known for its no property, real estate, or earnings tax status.
- The city spans 4.6 square miles but hosts over 1,500 businesses, including breweries and the Argosy Casino, earning it a reputation as a foodie haven near Kansas City.
- Home to the oldest continuously operating courthouse in Missouri (built 1867), still in use, and the Park Hill School District, one of Missouri’s top-rated.
- Inhabited since 8,000 BC, it inspired the plot of the movie The Sting (1973) at Riverside Park, and hosted visitors like Presidents George H.W. Bush and Vice President Charles Curtis.
Local Attractions
- Argosy Casino: A 4-diamond rated gaming and entertainment complex with slots, table games, shows, and river views. Open 24/7; free entry (21+ for gaming). Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps, elevators. Address: 777 NW Argosy Casino Pkwy, Riverside, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 746-7711. Website: argosykansascity.com.
- Renner Brenner Park: A scenic community park with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds along the Missouri River. Open daily; free. Accessibility: Paved paths, wheelchair-friendly. Address: 101 NW Renner Rd, Riverside, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 746-0255. Website: riversidemo.gov/parks.
- E. H. Young Memorial Bell Tower: A historic 1950s bell tower honoring local founder Edward Young, with peaceful gardens. Open daily; free. Accessibility: Ground-floor access. Address: 2950 NW Vivion Rd, Riverside, MO 64150. Phone: (816) 746-0255. Website: riversidemo.gov/history.
- Riverside Waterfall: A man-made cascading waterfall in a local park, perfect for photos and relaxation. Open daily; free. Accessibility: Flat paths, some gravel. Address: Near 101 NW Riverside Dr, Riverside, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 746-0255. Website: riversidemo.gov/parks.
- Pro Tip: Download the Visit KC app for real-time maps and event updates.
Local Restaurants
Savor Riverside’s culinary scene with these independent, locally-owned restaurants (no fast food chains or franchises):
- Corner Cafe: Known for homestyle American breakfasts like biscuits and gravy and the “Missouri Mudslide” dessert. Expect $8-15 per person. Accessibility: Step-free entry, accessible restrooms. Address: 4101 NW Gateway Ave, Riverside, MO 64151. Phone: (816) 741-3444. Website: cornercaferiverside.com.
- Cascone’s: Specializing in Sicilian-Italian classics like pasta and veal piccata since 1954. Prices range from $15-25. Accessibility: Wide seating areas, wheelchair-friendly. Address: 1636 NW Vivion Rd, Riverside, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 454-9088. Website: cascones.com.
- Chappell’s Restaurant & Sports Museum: Offers American pub fare like burgers amid sports memorabilia. Budget: $12-22. Accessibility: Ground-floor dining, wide doorways. Address: 323 Armour Rd, North Kansas City, MO 64116 (near Riverside). Phone: (816) 421-0002. Website: chappellsrestaurant.com.
- Tay’s Burger Shack: Famous for gourmet burgers and hand-cut fries. Average cost: $8-15. Accessibility: Ground-floor dining, braille menus available. Address: 1019 Armour Rd, North Kansas City, MO 64116 (near Riverside). Phone: (816) 541-8282. Website: taysburgershack.com.
- Reservation Tip: Book ahead, especially for Cascone’s, via restaurant websites or OpenTable.
Local Hotels
- Argosy Casino Hotel: Priced at $120-180/night. Offers casino access, spa, indoor pool, fitness center. Accessibility: Roll-in showers, elevator access. Address: 777 NW Argosy Casino Pkwy, Riverside, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 746-3100. Website: argosykansascity.com/hotel.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Riverside/Kansas City: Priced at $80-110/night. Features free breakfast, outdoor pool, pet-friendly. Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly rooms available. Address: 13031 Riverport Rd, Riverside, MO 64150. Phone: (816) 741-3330. Website: wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/riverside-missouri.
- Riverside Motel: Priced at $70-100/night. Provides basic amenities, free parking. Accessibility: Ground-floor options, wide doorways. Address: 4717 NW Gateway Ave, Riverside, MO 64150. Phone: (816) 587-3955. Website: riversidemotel.com.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kansas City North: Priced at $105-145/night. Includes free hot breakfast, indoor pool, business center. Accessibility: Adapted bathrooms on request. Address: 8230 NW Prairie View Rd, Kansas City, MO 64151 (near Riverside). Phone: (816) 587-1000. Website: ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kansas-city/mcipv/hoteldetail.
- Booking Tip: Reserve via Booking.com or Hotels.com for the best rates.
Other Information for Tourists
- Getting Around: Navigate with rideshares like Uber or drive via I-635 or NW Vivion Rd. Public transit via Kansas City Area Transportation Authority connects to KC (Address: 1200 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108. Phone: (816) 221-0660. Website: ridekc.org). Taxis at Kansas City International Airport (Address: 1 Kansas City Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64153. Phone: (816) 243-5237. Website: flykci.com). Car rentals at the airport are ideal for exploring.
- Best Time to Visit: Plan for spring (April-June) for mild weather and blooming parks or fall (September-November) for festivals; avoid peak summer heat in July-August.
- Dining Highlights: Beyond our picks, try Sicilian pasta at Cascone’s or burgers at Tay’s. For dietary needs, Corner Cafe offers gluten-free options.
- Events Calendar: Don’t miss the Riverside Fall Festival in October with crafts and music (Address: 101 NW Renner Rd, Riverside, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 746-0255. Website: riversidemo.gov/events) or the Platte County Fair in August (Address: 15700 MO-273, Platte City, MO 64079. Phone: (816) 431-3322. Website: plattecountyfair.com).
- Safety & Health: Riverside is very safe with low crime rates; stay cautious near the river during floods. Clinics at North Kansas City Hospital (Address: 2800 Clay Edwards Dr, North Kansas City, MO 64116. Phone: (816) 691-2000. Website: nkch.org). Download the Missouri Emergency app for alerts.
- Sustainable Travel: Shop at the nearby Platte Landing Farmers’ Market on Saturdays (Address: 2600 Running Horse Rd, Platte City, MO 64079. Phone: (816) 858-5300. Website: plattecitymo.com/market) and use reusable items—Riverside supports eco-friendly river conservation.
Mobility Made Easy with KC Mobility Scooter Rentals
Exploring Riverside is a breeze with KC Mobility Scooter Rentals, delivering top-quality mobility equipment to your hotel or rental in Riverside and nearby areas. Choose from:
- Mobility Scooters: Lightweight and easy to navigate on city streets and attractions.
- Wheelchairs: Manual or powered for all-day comfort.
- Rollators: Stable walkers with seats for shorter outings.
- Transport Chairs: Compact and foldable for travel ease.
- Knee Scooters: Perfect for temporary injuries, with adjustable heights.
Our rentals are affordable, sanitized, and delivered with setup instructions. Book at kcmobilityscooterrentals.com or call (816) 200-2342 for same-day service. Roll through Riverside’s wonders worry-free—your adventure starts here!
Updated as of September 24, 2025. Visit riversidemo.gov or visitkc.com for the latest info. Happy travels!