When you think of Kansas City, Missouri, what comes to mind? For me, it’s BBQ, jazz music, and my favorite season of Queer Eye. Yet it should come as no surprise to any frequent readers of mine (who know I love the Midwest) that this Missouran city is more than meets the eye.
At half a million residents, Kansas City isn’t huge, but it’s still among the top 30 biggest cities in the country. Sitting on the border of Missouri and Kansas, this city is a terrific place to visit, particularly if you’re a fan of good food and good music.
Shoppers will have a unique spot to explore too! The city is home to The Country Club Plaza. This mall was the first planned suburban shopping center in addition to the first shopping center in the Midwest for shoppers who drove to the stores.
It was completed in 1923 and is, beyond a doubt, an incredible product of its time. KC is nicknamed the “City of Fountains” due to the hundreds of fountains strewn about town, and you’ll find some of the most famous ones here.
So here we go. If you’re looking for a comfy hotel room as a base to explore the most popular city in Missouri, whether it’s for events in town, for a BBQ tour, or to check out KC’s art or jazz scene, we can help you find the perfect home away from home.
(And if you started reading this thinking Kansas City was in Kansas, don’t feel bad. There’s also a Kansas City in Kansas.)
TL;DR Top Hotels
| Hotel Name | Rating | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Seville Plaza Hotel | 4 | Luxury accommodations, on-site dining options, fitness center, and business facilities |
| Raphael Hotel | 4.7 | Boutique-style accommodations, fine dining options, spa or wellness facilities |
| Great Wolf Lodge | 4.2 | Indoor water park, family-friendly activities, multiple dining options, arcade and entertainment facilities |
| 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City | 4.4 | On-site fine dining, bar, fitness center, pet-friendly |
| Crossroads Hotel | 4.6 | On-site dining, rooftop bar, cafe, fitness center, room service |
Where to Stay in Kansas City, Missouri
1. The Fontaine
Address: 901 West 48th Place, Kansas City, MO 64112
Located in the Country Club Plaza area, The Fontaine is one of the most charming of the Kansas City hotels. Easy access to the best things to do in Kansas City makes this a popular spot for families, couples, and solo travelers.
It’s only a few miles from Legoland Discovery Center, the Arrowhead Stadium, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City. A complimentary shuttle is provided to all destinations within a 5-mile radius.
901 West serves upscale Mediterranean cuisine and beautiful city views on the hotel’s top floor, which means you won’t have to go far for a good meal. Solarium Lounge serves a European breakfast each morning, though it is not included with your stay.
All rooms feature hardwood floors and an oversized walk-in shower with a rain shower head. Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool and the fitness center.
Pros:
- Swimming pool
- Variety of breakfast options
- Pet-friendly
- Fitness center
- Close to a lot of attractions
Cons:
- No free breakfast
- Paid parking
- Some rooms are outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
2. InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, an IHG Hotel
Address: 401 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64112
Also located in the Country Club Plaza shopping area, the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza is a more budget-friendly option for visitors to Kansas City. Just as with The Fontaine, the InterContinental is a great spot to stay in Kansas City if you need a place with excellent attraction accessibility.
The InterContinental offers a restaurant, outdoor pool, and fitness center. Although there isn’t a spa, there is a sauna and steam room near the fitness center.
Many guest rooms feature views of Country Club Plaza. Fine dining is available at American Slang, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Pros:
- Proximity to attractions
- Outdoor pool
- Room service
- Fitness center
- Sauna/steamroom
Cons:
- Half-hour drive to Kansas City International Airport
- Paid parking
- Some rooms are outdated
Things to Do Nearby:
3. Seville Plaza Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Address: 4309 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111
The incredibly charming Seville Plaza Hotel, right in Downtown Kansas City, is perfect for anyone who wants to get to know the city better. From this walkable location, you have access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’re smack-dab in the Museum District, though you can easily walk to the Westport District and Country Club Plaza, too, if you want.
As one of the dog-friendly hotels in Kansas City, it’s particularly excellent for roadtrippers bringing their pups along. You’ll also be treated to a full English breakfast every morning and a cozy sun terrace to enjoy mother nature at its finest. While there isn’t an on-site restaurant for other meals, you’re just a hop away from the enchanting Ragazza Food & Wine, which serves up delish Italian dishes.
Pros:
- Pet-friendly
- Free English breakfast
- Outdoor spaces for visitor use
- Walkable to Downtown Kansas City attractions
Cons:
- No on-site restaurant
- Some of the rooms are reportedly outdated
- No parking available
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Best Things to Do in Missouri & Places to Visit
4. The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection
Address: 325 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112
Built in 1928, The Raphael Hotel is one of the most unique Kansas City hotels. Upon first glance, you’ll notice the European influences of this historic hotel, giving it an air of elegance.
Not only is it unique among hotels in Kansas City, but it’s also one of the most awarded Missouri hotels. If you’re looking for the best hotel for couples in Kansas City, this romantic place is your spot.
Not only does the hotel house the Chaz Restaurant and Lounge, but they also offer 24-hour room service. Some reservation types include a free breakfast; just be sure to check before you go. The Raphael also hosts live entertainment throughout the week for guests to enjoy, as well as walking tours and bicycle rentals.
Pros:
- 24-hour room service
- On-site restaurant
- Live entertainment
- Parking available
- Great location In the Country Club Plaza area
Cons:
- Some rooms can be noisy due to the age of the hotel
- Half an hour from the Kansas City International Airport
Things to Do Nearby:
5. Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, Autograph Collection
Address: 1111 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
Another enchanting historical building turned downtown Kansas City hotel, the Ambassador Hotel, was once the Gates City National Bank. Built in 1920, this treasure of a hotel is bedazzled with neoclassical and art deco-inspired styles.
As one of the more posh accommodations in the city, you’ll experience the luxury of a bygone era. To enhance the history of the building, enjoy the hotel’s own supper club.
At Lonnie’s Reno Club, you can feel immersed in a 1930s-style jazz joint for dinner, a cocktail, and (of course) plenty of live jazz. From here, you’re also in the heart of downtown Kansas City, giving a terrific jumping-off point for days of adventure.
Pros:
- Restaurant and lounge
- Room service
- Valet and self-parking are available
- Free wifi
- Massage services available
Cons:
- Noisy rooms from the age of the hotel
- Rooms above the club may have music late into the night
Things to Do Nearby:
6. Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport, an IHG Hotel
Address: 11728 North Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO 64153
Families looking to stay in Kansas City should strongly consider the Holiday Inn Kansas City Airport. Though further from downtown, it’s near the airport and has an indoor pool as well as a restaurant.
Their restaurant, Kem’s Cafe and Lounge, serves American cuisine for breakfast and lunch. Guests can also enjoy cocktails in the lounge.
If you’re visiting Kansas City via plane and not arranging a rental car, you’ll be happy to know the Holiday Inn offers a free airport shuttle! This is also one of the pet-friendly hotels in the city as well if you’re bringing your pets along with you.
Pros:
- Indoor pool
- Restaurant and lounge
- Family-friendly
- Free airport shuttle
- Free wifi
Cons:
- No private parking (street parking)
- Further from Kansas City downtown area
- Far from the city’s top attractions
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Top Things to Do in St. Louis, Missouri
7. Loews Kansas City Hotel
Address: 1515 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64108
The Loews Kansas City Hotel provides a chic and comfortable stay in the city, near the Kansas City Convention Center. The convention center is only a few minutes walk from the hotel.
It’s a great pick if you’re visiting Kansas City for a big event or for business, even if it isn’t in the Kansas City downtown area. Get some respite in the hotel’s indoor pool and hot tub, or splurge for some much-needed spa time.
Some of the great amenities here also include the hotel restaurant, room service, and pet-friendly accommodations. Loews hotels are always a good bet in our experience, and this beautiful hotel is no exception.
Pros:
- The hotel has great reviews
- Modern rooms
- Spa services
- Indoor pool
- Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cons:
- Further from the city center, not a central location
- Parking fees
Things to Do Nearby:
8. Candlewood Suites Kansas City Northeast
Address: 4450 North Randolph Road, Kansas City, MO 64117
Another hotel in Kansas City that caters particularly well to families, the Candlewood Suites Kansas City Northeast, is primed for family mirth. With its location near the interstate, it’s also ideal for a Kansas City visit on a road trip itinerary.
The hotel’s free parking makes it one of the best budget hotels in the city since you won’t be paying a daily parking fee. It also offers free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, a 24-hour convenience store, and a workout area.
All the suites have flat-screen TVs, work desks, and fully functioning kitchens. Plus, Candlewood Suites is across from the Worlds of Fun Amusement Park, a prime KC attraction.
Pros:
- Walking distance to Worlds of Fun
- 24-hour hotel mini-market
- A terrific budget hotel option
- All suites have full kitchens
- Indoor pool
Cons:
- Further from the Kansas City downtown area
- Not located in a particularly quiet area
Things to Do Nearby:
9. Hampton Inn & Suites Country Club Plaza
Address: 4600 Summit Street, Kansas City, MO 64112
A comfortable and affordable stay in Kansas City awaits you at the Hampton Inn & Suites Country Club Plaza. Set in the famed Kansas City Plaza area, this is one of the best hotels for walking-focused adventurers. This is one of our best-recommended hotels for families looking to save some money without sacrificing access to Kansas City on your next trip.
A hot buffet breakfast is served daily, too. From here, you’re only steps away from shopping and dining in the historic buildings in the Country Club Plaza; the Hampton Inn offers Wi-Fi, a pool, and a fitness center.
Pros:
- Free breakfast
- Easy access to the Country Club Plaza
- Private parking available
- Indoor heated pool with lounge chairs
- Pet-friendly
Cons:
- Some of the rooms are outdated
- May not have a lot of breakfast options for dietary restrictions
Things to Do Nearby:
See Related: Best Things to Do in Rolla, Missouri
10. Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport
Address: 11820 North West Plaza Circle, Kansas City, MO 64153
Another of the budget hotels in Kansas City that’s only a short drive away from the airport, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Airport makes for a terrific home base. One of the best hotels for busy travelers, the Fairfield Inn provides a comfortable stay in Kansas City without breaking the bank.
Since it’s close to the airport, there aren’t a ton of walkable activities from Fairfield. It’s also pretty barebones compared to most hotels on this list.
Still, the guest rooms have flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and microwaves, with laundry services available as well. The hotel also features an indoor pool and fitness center, and a continental breakfast is served daily.
Pros:
- Free airport shuttle
- Continental breakfast
- In-room small appliances like microwaves
- Indoor pool
- Parking is available
Cons:
- Lacking other amenities
- Some rooms may be outdated
- Far from Kansas City downtown area and other activities
Things to Do Nearby:
11. Four Points by Sheraton Kansas City Airport
Address: 11832 North West Plaza Circle, Kansas City, MO 64153
For car-less travelers not wanting to sacrifice their ability to get around during a stay in Kansas City, the Four Points by Sheraton Kansas City Airport might be for you. Here there is a free 24-hour airport shuttle, but the Four Points also offers a shuttle service for locations within a five-mile radius.
The Four Points also has an outdoor pool (with seasonal availability) and a sun terrace. It’s always a lot of fun to watch airplanes zoom off from an airport hotel terrace.
There is also a restaurant at the Four Points. The Boulevard Grill is casual, serves American cuisine, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Pros:
- Restaurant on-site
- Outdoor pool access
- Free airport and area shuttle service
- Minimart
- Fitness area
Cons:
- Not walkable to a lot of attractions
- Restaurant may not have a lot of options for dietary restrictions
Things to Do Nearby:
- Kansas City International Airport
- TWA Museum
- Science City
- Variety KC Playground
- Shoal Creek Living History Museum
12. Westin Kansas City at Crown Center
Address: One East Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108
Travelers wanting to stay in Kansas City but still have access to a lot to do just from the hotel should consider the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center. Located within the Hallmark Crown Center (did you know Hallmark started in KC?), there are 85 acres of places to enjoy.
This four-star resort will not disappoint discerning business travelers or the family looking just to enjoy the best of KC. At the Westin, each guest room provides a work desk, seating area, and flat-screen TV.
The hotel also offers a whirlpool, steam room, sauna, outdoor heated swimming pool, track, and tennis courts. Pets are even allowed at this massive hotel, so feel free to bring them along!
Pros:
- Pool is open all year
- Parking is available on-site
- Tons of on-site amenities
- Restaurants on premises
- Allergy-free rooms available
Cons:
- Parking fees are expensive
Things to Do Nearby:
- Union Station Kansas City
- National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial
- Bartle Hall Convention Center
- Historic Power and Light Building
- Swope Park
13. 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City
Address: 219 West 9th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
The old Savoy Hotel and Grill building still plays host to The Savoy restaurant if fine dining is one of your priorities. In fact, the 21c Art Museum Hotel is a top destination if you prefer the finer things in life – period.
Great location? Sure. Amazing decor? You bet. Incredible food? Heck yeah.
Candidate for the best luxury hotel in town? Absolutely. Seriously, this place is an attraction in its own right, with a better collection of artwork than some art galleries and some of the best food in the city.
This luxury hotel meets contemporary art gallery is conveniently located in the Library District, within easy reach of the best of KC. Rooms feature the latest in modern conveniences, and you can bring your furry ones too.
Pros:
- Great staff
- Complimentary drink in the evenings
- Amazing on-site dining
- Pet-friendly
Cons:
- Parking lot is unsecured and across the street
Things to Do Nearby:
- Union Station Kansas City
- National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial
- Historic Power and Light District
- Hyde Park
14. Crossroads Hotel
Address: 2101 Central Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
We’re ending this list on a real high note with what isn’t just the coolest luxury hotels but the coolest of all hotels in Kansas City. Check into the Crossroads Hotel, located in the namesake Crossroads Arts District.
The facade of this old factory belies its splendor inside. Proudly bearing its industrial bones, the Crossroads is beautifully decorated.
It also has great dining options, as well as billiards and a rooftop bar. Room service and breakfast in bed are also available.
Pros:
- Awesome decor
- Diverse on-site dining options
- Great location
Cons:
Things to Do Nearby:
- Science City
- National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial
- Historic Power and Light District
- Hyde Park
- Union Station Kansas City
Related Resources
- About the Author
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Amanda is a Chicago-based queer travel, arts, and lifestyle writer who is passionate about exploring the world. Her work has been featured in Newcity Stage, The Chicago Reader, Huffington Post, and Yahoo, as well as the November 2022 book, “Chicago Like a Local” and other travel journals available on Amazon. Amanda’s favorite destinations include Costa Rica, Prague, Dublin, Hong Kong, and every Disney park she’s visited.
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