Westport is well known for its vibrant nightlife and bar scene. While many of the bars offer a party vibe, there are swanky cocktail bars and dive bars to choose from as well.
With all of these options, it can be difficult to figure out where your group should go. So, we’ve put together this guide to help!
Below is the list of all the Westport bars categorized by what type of vibe you’re looking for.
Westport Live Music Bars
- Levee: A vibrant bar with five rooms and dancing known for its great mix of live music, spanning various genres. The live music can be found on the first floor and a sports bar on the second floor. The Levee has been creating regulars since 1965.
- Tin Roof: A country music spot known for its southern-style bar food and vibrant music scene. Inside there are two stages and out front an expansive patio.
- Kelly’s Westport Inn: A historic bar that opened in 1947, it has become an iconic Irish pub, known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively character. Housed in the oldest building in Kansas City, built in 1851, the bar has witnessed the city’s evolution, from the pioneer days to modern times. The modest stage in the middle of the restaurant hosts live music on the weekends. There are a variety of arcade games throughout the bar.
- Offkey Karaoke Lounge: For those looking to make their own live music, Offkey provides a private karaoke experience in personal suites, popular for groups.
Westport Dive Bars
- Buzzard Beach: A local dive bar beloved for its laid-back vibe and affordable drinks, Buzzard Beach has been a local favorite for decades.
Westport Sports Bars
- Westport Ale House: Westport Ale House is renowned for its rooftop bar with panoramic views of the neighborhood. It stands out as a versatile venue offering a full-service food menu, over 50 big-screens for sports events, and a vibrant atmosphere for nightlife. They have over 40 rotating craft beers on tap, all canned beer selections, and hand crafted cocktails.
- Harpos: Harpo’s KC was established in 1991 following the success of their Columbia location. It’s located in a historic building and features an impressive tree-shaded patio. They offer burgers, pub fare, draft beer, and wells.
Westport Night Clubs
- Firefly Lounge: Initially starting as a speakeasy, the lounge, with its dark ambiance, brick walls, and black leather couches, hosts DJs who spin music that complements its chic atmosphere. Open from 8pm to 3am., Firefly Lounge provides an ideal setting for socializing, dancing, and enjoying drink specials.
- Lotus: Open Friday and Saturday from 10pm – 3am, Lotus is Westport’s premier nightclub featuring DJs and a lively dance-centric atmosphere. You can reserve a VIP section to enhance your night out. Lotus maintains a dress code to ensure an upscale ambiance and also provides bottle service.
- Bridgers: Acclaimed as Kansas City’s top Hip Hop club, Bridgers offers an exceptional nightlife experience with the city’s best Hip Hop DJs. The club provides an opportunity to reserve VIP sections, elevating the night out. Adhering to a dress code that promotes an upscale atmosphere, Bridgers stands out as a key destination for those seeking a vibrant, urban-style evening in Kansas City.
- Johnny Kaws: This bar is known for its high-energy atmosphere.
Westport Cocktail Bars
- Ça Va: This quaint champagne bar offers a tranquil, candlelit setting perfect for sharing a toast with your date in an elegant ambiance. They have excellent desserts as well.
- Harry’s Bar and Tables: Features classic drinks in an elegant, historic setting, with an expansive outdoor patio for a relaxed experience.
Westport Arcade Bars
- Gambal’s Social Club: A no-nonsense sports bar with a wide range of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for casual gatherings. You can play a wide selection of games, from Jenga to pool to darts, at this low-key sports bar.
- Westport Bar and Rec: Combining a traditional bar experience with 50+ recreational games and activities, making it a great spot for a casual night out.
Is Westport Kansas City Safe?
Before staying out late in Westport, you should know about night time safety measures.
There have been some instances of crime in Westport in recent years. The district has taken steps to try to eliminate future incidents, including security screenings.
On Friday and Saturday nights, the district shuts the streets to vehicles and becomes pedestrian traffic only. From 11pm – 3am, there is a required safety scan to get into the bar district.
Enhanced security screening involves patrons emptying their pockets, opening their purses or bags, and walking through a metal detector. Once cleared by the metal detector and shown a valid ID reflecting the age of 21 or older, you are free to enter the district. This has been taking place since 2018.
Late Night Parking In Westport
Parking in Westport – especially late at night – can be limited. We recommend you do ride-share if you’re planning to visit in the evening. Another option is to book one of the local hotels.
Spending time in Westport? We recommend you look through our complete guide to Westport entertainment district.