Urban Hero: Spotlight on Lisa Peña, Urban Hikes KC

Since 2005, the Downtown Council has recognized more than 100 small businesses and individuals as Urban Heroes, people who are passionate about making the urban community a more vibrant place to live, work, play, and stay throughout the 22 adjacent neighborhoods and districts of greater Downtown KC. 

This new, monthly feature series will introduce you to each of the 2023 award winners, beginning with Lisa Peña.

Lisa Peña, founder, Urban Hikes KC

Lisa, a native of Kansas City, KS, grew up hiking through the woods behind her childhood home. She loves nature, while at the same time craving time in the city. Her experiences and passions led her to founding Urban Hikes Kansas City in 2019.

“We lead 3-5 mile group urban hikes in Downtown KCMO, KCK, and the Plaza, in English or Spanish,” she said. “We learn about the history of KC, enjoy all kinds of street art, walk over hidden bridges and alleys, connect with others, and get exercise.”

Lisa Peña, founder of Urban Hikes Kansas City

Lisa loves to share her city with others and promises that you’ll experience parts of Kansas City you’ve never seen before.

“I grew up in KCK hiking/playing in the woods behind my home and after college served in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic,” she said. “I love my city and love hiking and decided to combine the two. Not only do I provide an outdoor experience, but it’s a time for people to connect in a different way than normal.”

Lisa speaks Spanish fluently, is a graduate of Sumner Academy, and earned her Masters of Public Administration degree from UMKC. 

“I definitely don’t do this alone. I’m so grateful to work with a team of six talented urban hiking guides who are all just as passionate as me about sharing the hidden gems and untold stories of Kansas City,” she explained. “Locals and travelers both love our hikes.”

From 2021- 2022, Urban Hikes KC served over 2,000 people and delivered more than 40 team-building corporate staff experiences. Click here to watch the Downtown Council’s 2023 Urban Hero video on Lisa and her Urban Hikes KC journey.

See below for a highlight list of the urban hikes offered in the late summer and early fall. Click here for the complete list.

  • Crossroads Art District and Westside Urban Hike
  • Strawberry Hill and Downtown KCK Urban Hike
  • Quindaro Ruins Urban Hike
  • Urban Hike with Wine and Cheese
  • KCK Third Fridays Golden Hour Kaw Point Urban Hike
  • Kaw Point Urban Hike ending with Live Music at Hilltone Studios Stage
  • Hilly Historic Northeast Urban Hike
  • Lewis and Clark 10 mile Bike Ride
  • Mural Hike Based on Spray See Mo Murals
  • River Market Urban Hike

To learn more or to sign up for an urban hike, visit https://urbanhikeskc.com/. Customized private hikes are available upon request.

You can check out the Urban Hikes KC news beat with these recent stories: Very Local’s Hit Me With Your Best Spot | Travel + Leisure Meet in the Middle You Tube Series | In Kansas City Magazine | One Tank Trips |  KCUR  | Midwest Living and Within the Realm Podcast … just to name a few.

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