Kansas City Hotels

Travel Guide

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Title

Your Complete Guide to Kansas City, Missouri

Description

An often overlooked Midwest destination, Kansas City flies under the radar as a place jam-packed with a rich music history, incredible food, profuse creativity, and successful sports teams. Known to some as the Heart of America, Kansas City recently landed on the New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2024” list for soccer (the first stadium built for a National Women’s Soccer League team is here and KC is the only Midwest city hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup), amongst other things. For the past few years, Kansas City has offered free public transportation via the KC Streetcar, as well. If you’re in search of a fun, budget-friendly vacation destination, this is the city for you! Book your weekend trip now.

 

IHG Hotels in Kansas City

A luxurious and historic escape in the heart of downtown, InterContinental Kansas City is located minutes from Country Club Plaza and features a 24-hour fitness center with a sauna, in addition to a seasonal outdoor pool with city views. The pet-friendly property features classic guest rooms and suites. Book a room with a balcony for a little extra space and order in or make a reservation at American Slang Modern Brasserie (which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to enjoy barbecue dishes, seafood plates, steak, and more. The hotel’s culinary team sources local meats, produce, cheeses, fine chocolates, and coffees, when possible (all from farmers and growers within a 150-mile radius of the property).

Another pet-friendly property, Hotel Indigo Kansas City - The Crossroads is housed inside a historically-certified building that used to be a costume shop. Filled with artwork by local artists, the hotel is home to Jim Leedy Bar + Kitchen, a lobby-level dining concept called where you can grab a bite, a cocktail, or a local beer (the restaurant supports local Kansas City-produced wine, beer, and spirits companies) and tune into whatever’s on the TV.

 

Things to Do

Arts and culture lovers have so many great institutions to visit in Kansas City, like the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, a world-class museum featuring a diverse art collection, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. The museum's famous sculpture garden is a must-see. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is walking distance from the Nelson Atkins Museum and stands out thanks to a four-story spider sculpture right outside the building. Admission and parking at the Nelson Atkins Museum are both free. 

 

Celebrate Kansas City's jazz heritage with exhibits showcasing the city's impact on the genre at the American Jazz Museum. The adjacent Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Negro league baseball in America and definitely worth a visit, too. For jazz clubs, more museums, and a lively nightlife scene, 18th and Vine is a historic Jazz District and a century-old hub of African American culture and history.

 

The Crossroads Arts District is another great stop and features galleries, studios, cool coffee shops, bars, and more. Monthly "First Friday" events allow you to experience live music, art shows, street performers, food trucks and a lively, creative crowd.

 

History buffs will get a kick out of the Arabia Steamboat Museum, which preserves artifacts recovered from the steamboat Arabia, which sank in the Missouri River in 1856.

 

The National World War I Museum and Memorial offers an immersive experience with exhibits showcasing the history and impact of World War I. Climb the Liberty Memorial Tower here for panoramic views of the city.

 

A stunning architectural landmark, Union Station Kansas City houses attractions such as Science City and the Kansas City Rail Experience. It's also home to restaurants, shops, and a planetarium. Located in nearby Independence, Missouri, the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum offers insights into the life and presidency of Harry S. Truman.

 

One of the largest urban parks in the country, Swope Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, a zoo, and a golf course. Known for its beautiful rose garden and fountains, Loose Park is a peaceful oasis in the city. The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden is a tranquil and lovely spot for a leisurely stroll, with well-maintained plants and sculptures.

 

Of course, if you visit during football season, try to snag tickets to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Super Bowl winning champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.

 

Trip Extras

Are you an IHG One Rewards member? Book tours, activities, and things to do in Kansas City and earn points toward future travels. Some fun ones include a BBQ tour where you’ll sample bites from world-famous restaurants, a distillery tour, tickets to LEGOLAND (if traveling with kids), and a jewelry-making class that includes local beer and wine.

 

Where to Eat and Drink

A legendary spot for barbecue, Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que is known for its ribs, burnt ends, and sandwiches. Another top-notch barbecue joint is Q39, which offers mouthwatering smoked meats and creative sides.

 

In the Stockyards district you’ll find the Golden Ox, a restored 1949 steakhouse that claims to have developed the original Kansas City Strip. There are some wonderful steaks here, and equally wonderful sides.

 

The family-owned Mildred’s is the perfect (all day) breakfast stop when you’re craving a latte and an egg sandwich. Novel, nearby, showcases housemade pastas (ramen too, sometimes) and a seasonal small plates menu. For the best tacos al pastor, head to Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio, and for James Beard-recognized corn and Sonoran-style flour tortillas, Yoli Tortilleria is a must.

 

Some fun bars include The Monarch Cocktail Bar & Lounge, known for its creative cocktails and stylish ambiance; Green Lady Lounge, a jazz bar with live music every night, offering a vintage vibe and great drinks; and Julep Cocktail Club, specializing in craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection.

 

Kansas City's largest craft brewery, Boulevard Brewery offers tastings and tours, as well as a selection of delicious beers.

 

With country nights, concerts, festivals, and sporting events, Kansas City Power and Light District is home to over 50 restaurants and venues, making it a great place to dine, drink, and choose your own adventure.

 

Transportation and Travel Tips

Kansas City has a modest public transportation system, including buses and the KC Streetcar, a free light rail service that runs through the downtown area. Many parts of Kansas City are walkable, especially downtown and around the Country Club Plaza. Bike-sharing programs are also available in addition to taxis and rideshare services. If you plan to rent a car, parking can be found throughout the city, with many parking garages and lots available, especially near popular attractions.

 

Kansas City experiences all four seasons, so pack accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may be cold and snowy. Don’t hesitate to venture out and explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as the River Market, Westport, and Brookside/Waldo, each offers its own distinct vibe and attractions.

Fly into Kansas City International Airport, which is in the Northland. The city's Transportation Authority provides bus service every hour that will take you to and from the airport. Amtrak and Greyhound have popular ports in the city, too. Ready to book your next weekend adventure? Plan your perfect Kansas City weekend getaway now.

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