Riverside, MO
County: Platte
History
Riverside, Missouri is a small city located in Platte County, just outside of Kansas City. Its history dates back to the early 1800s when the area was settled by pioneers. Here is an overview of the history of Riverside:
- Early Settlement: The land that Riverside occupies was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Kickapoo tribes. In the early 1800s, European settlers, primarily from Kentucky and Tennessee, began to establish farms and homes in the area.
- Incorporation: Riverside was officially incorporated as a city in 1951. The name was chosen due to the city's proximity to the Missouri River, which runs along its eastern border.
- Early Industries: The early economy of Riverside relied heavily on agriculture and farming. Crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco were grown, and livestock was raised. The city also saw the establishment of several mills and lumber yards.
- Kansas City Stockyards: One of the significant events in the history of Riverside was the establishment of the Kansas City Stockyards in the neighboring Kansas City, Kansas. This facility, which opened in 1871, became a hub for the livestock industry in the region. Many farmers from Riverside and the surrounding areas brought their cattle to the stockyards, leading to economic growth.
- Residential Development: In the late 19th century, as Kansas City expanded, the demand for residential properties increased. Riverside experienced a surge in residential development during this time, with the construction of houses, schools, and other amenities.
- Riverside's "Lost Town": In the early 20th century, the construction of the then-interstate river bridge connecting Missouri and Kansas resulted in the flooding of a portion of Riverside known as "Lost Town." This area, once a vibrant community with its own business district and residences, was eventually abandoned due to the progress of infrastructure development.
- Modern Developments: In recent decades, Riverside has seen various developments, including the establishment of various businesses, retail centers, and entertainment venues. The city is home to the popular Argosy Casino, which opened in 1994. It also hosts several annual events and festivals, attracting visitors from the surrounding areas.
Today, Riverside continues to thrive as a small community with a rich history and a growing economy. Its convenient location, scenic surroundings, and proximity to Kansas City make it an attractive place to live and visit.
Attractions
Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa
A popular casino and hotel offering a wide range of gaming options, dining choices, and entertainment.
National Golf Club
An 18-hole championship golf course known for its scenic views and challenging design.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary
A beautiful nature preserve featuring trails, wildlife, and educational exhibits.
Weston Bend State Park
A picturesque park along the Missouri River with hiking trails, camping facilities, and scenic overlooks.
Cave Spring Interpretive Center
A historic site that showcases the natural beauty and significance of Cave Spring, including a cave system and several walking trails.
Weston Historic District
A charming historic district filled with unique shops, restaurants, and bed and breakfasts.
Pirtle Winery
A local winery that offers tours, tastings, and events throughout the year.
TWA Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and legacy of Trans World Airlines, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia.
The National Airline History Museum
A museum that showcases the history of commercial aviation, with a focus on TWA and other major airlines.
The Strawberry Hill Museum
Located nearby in Kansas City, this museum explores the cultural heritage and history of the Strawberry Hill neighborhood.
Climate
Riverside, Missouri has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are generally cold with occasional snowfall.
During the summer months of June, July, and August, Riverside experiences average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30-33°C). However, temperatures can occasionally soar into the 100s°F (37-38°C) during heatwaves. Humidity levels can be high during this time, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional severe weather.
Autumn in Riverside brings moderate temperatures, with average highs in the 70s°F (around 25°C) during September, gradually dropping to the 50s°F (around 10°C) in November. Fall foliage is vibrant, with colorful leaves on display throughout October.
Winters in Riverside are cold, with average high temperatures hovering in the 30s and 40s°F (1-7°C) during December, January, and February. Overnight temperatures often dip below freezing, and snowfall is common but usually moderate in quantity. However, occasional winter storms can bring heavier snowfall. It is advisable to dress warmly and be prepared for icy conditions during this season.
Spring in Riverside can be unpredictable, with temperatures gradually warming up. March and April have average highs in the 50s and 60s°F (10-20°C), while May brings highs in the 70s°F (around 25°C). Spring is also a time of increased rainfall, with frequent showers and thunderstorms.
Overall, Riverside experiences a wide range of weather patterns throughout the year, with hot and humid summers, cold winters with occasional snowfall, and moderate temperatures during spring and autumn.
Neighborhoods
Riverside, Missouri is a small city located in Platte County. While Riverside may not have numerous distinct neighborhoods, it does consist of a few key areas with their own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods or areas within Riverside:
Downtown Riverside
This is the heart of the city, where you'll find most of the commercial and retail establishments. Downtown Riverside features a mix of small businesses, restaurants, shops, and services. It also includes Riverside Park, a picturesque riverfront park offering scenic views and recreational activities.
Briarcliff West
Located on the western side of Riverside, Briarcliff West is a residential area with a suburban feel. It has a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. The neighborhood is known for its well-maintained properties, tree-lined streets, and easy access to amenities.
Northmoor
Positioned in the northern part of Riverside, Northmoor is a residential neighborhood with a suburban vibe. It features a range of housing options, from older homes to newer constructions. Northmoor has its own amenities like parks, schools, and small retail establishments.
Argosy Casino District
Situated in the southwestern part of Riverside, the Argosy Casino District is home to the Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa. This area primarily consists of the casino and its adjacent facilities, including restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
Park Hill School District
While not a specific neighborhood within Riverside, it's worth mentioning that the Park Hill School District serves the community. The district comprises several schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, offering quality education to students residing in Riverside.
It's important to note that Riverside is a relatively small city with a population of around 3,000 people, so the neighborhood distinctions might not be as pronounced as in larger cities. Nevertheless, each area provides its own charm and sense of community within Riverside.