Garment District, Kansas City

The Kansas City Garment District, located in Downtown Kansas City, just east of Quality Hill across Broadway Boulevard, is a historic area that once thrived as a major hub for clothing manufacturing in the United States. In the 1930s, it was second only to New York City in terms of production, with over 25% of the nation's clothing being made here. This bustling industrial past is honored today by a distinctive needle and thread monument, designed by Dave Stevens and installed in 2002.

The district's old factories and warehouses have since been transformed into loft apartments, offices, and trendy restaurants, blending the area’s rich history with modern urban living. The Kansas City Garment District Museum, also established in 2002, offers a deeper dive into the legacy of this once-vibrant manufacturing center.

Adding to its historical significance, the district was the starting point for Henry Perry, the pioneer of Kansas City-style barbecue, who began his culinary journey from a humble stand in an alley in 1908. Today, the Garment District stands as a testament to Kansas City's industrial past, with its revitalized spaces continuing to breathe new life into this storied neighborhood.