When I travel, where I choose to stay isn’t just a place to drop my bags at the end of the day — it’s a big part of the entire journey. A hotel can either become a character in your travel story or fade into the background as nothing more than a bed. In Kansas City, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a wide range of options for every type of traveler, from budget explorers to luxury seekers.
On my most recent trip, I decided to split my time between exploring barbecue joints, jazz clubs, and cultural landmarks — and I knew my hotel had to support that plan. What I found was a mix of comfort, local flavor, and surprisingly good value.
I’ll walk you through my personal stay at one Kansas City hotel (with all the nitty-gritty details of facilities, service, and my honest impressions), and then recommend four other hotels across different budgets and styles. I’ll cover booking platforms, prices, locations, nearby attractions, pros and cons, and little details you might not find in a brochure.
My Stay: 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City
Why I Chose It
When I was planning my trip, I kept hearing about 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City. Friends described it as “part art gallery, part hotel, part experience.” That was enough to catch my attention. I wanted something more than a chain hotel — something that could immerse me in Kansas City’s creative side while still being comfortable.
First Impressions
Located at 219 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64105, right in the heart of downtown, the hotel occupies a historic building that was once the Savoy Hotel and Grill. When I walked in, I was immediately struck by the contemporary art installations scattered throughout the lobby and hallways. It felt less like checking into a hotel and more like walking into a modern art museum.
The check-in staff were warm and conversational. They handed me my room key with a quick introduction to the art on display and told me about the hotel’s rotating exhibits, which are open to the public 24/7. That detail made me realize: I wasn’t just staying in a hotel; I was living inside an active museum.
My Room Experience
I booked a Deluxe King Room, which cost me around $210 per night on Booking.com (I booked about a month in advance). The room was spacious, modern, and bright, with high ceilings that gave it a loft-like feel.
• Bed: King-sized, plush, and honestly one of the most comfortable mattresses I’ve slept on in a hotel. Crisp white linens and a pillow menu made it feel like home but better.
• Bathroom: Sleek, with a large walk-in shower, Malin + Goetz toiletries, and thick, luxurious towels. I’m picky about bathrooms when I travel, and this one passed with flying colors.
• Extras: A Nespresso machine (a huge plus for my early mornings), a mini-bar with local snacks, and art on the walls that wasn’t generic hotel décor — each piece felt curated.
At night, I could see the glow of downtown outside my window, but the room was blissfully quiet.
Dining: The Savoy
One of the highlights was dining at The Savoy, the hotel’s restaurant. It’s legendary in Kansas City, and I was excited to try it. I had the charred pork chop with apple mustard glaze ($34) and paired it with a local Boulevard Brewing Co. pale ale. The flavors were rich, the service impeccable, and the ambiance balanced historic charm with modern flair.
Breakfast the next morning was equally memorable: a fluffy omelet with goat cheese and spinach ($16), fresh fruit, and strong coffee.
Facilities & Services
• Museum Spaces: The galleries were fascinating. I spent nearly two hours one rainy afternoon just wandering through them. Best part? It’s free for guests and the public.
• Fitness Center: Small but well-equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and yoga mats.
• Wi-Fi: Fast and reliable — I streamed Netflix with no issues.
• Pet Policy: Pet-friendly, with a $75 fee. I noticed a couple of guests checking in with dogs.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Unique combination of hotel + art museum.
• Central downtown location — walkable to the Power & Light District, River Market, and streetcar stops.
• Exceptional dining at The Savoy.
• Spacious, stylish rooms with comfortable beds.
Cons:
• Price point ($200+) may not fit every budget.
• Parking is valet-only at $40 per night.
My Verdict
Staying at 21c Museum Hotel felt like being part of Kansas City’s cultural heartbeat. If you love art, design, and creativity, it’s worth the splurge. I’d happily return.
Recommended Hotel 1: The Fontaine (Luxury Option)
If you’re looking for something elegant with a touch of modern glamour, The Fontaine in Country Club Plaza is a standout.
• Location: 901 W 48th Pl, Kansas City, MO 64112 — right in the Plaza, which means high-end shopping, dining, and European-inspired fountains are just steps away.
• Rooms & Rates: Prices start around $230 per night. Rooms are spacious, with marble bathrooms, soaking tubs, and plush bedding.
• Dining: The rooftop restaurant, Parker, offers fantastic city views and seasonal American cuisine. Brunch here is a must (try the lemon ricotta pancakes).
• Facilities: Outdoor rooftop pool, fitness center, meeting rooms.
• Pros: Upscale atmosphere, perfect for romantic getaways.
• Cons: Higher price point, and Plaza traffic can be busy during weekends.
• Booking Platforms: Expedia, Hotels.com, or direct on The Fontaine’s website (they sometimes offer package deals with dining credits).
Recommended Hotel 2: Hotel Kansas City (Historic Mid-Range)
For travelers who love history mixed with boutique vibes, Hotel Kansas City, part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, is a gem.
• Location: 1228 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64105 — near the Convention Center and Sprint Center.
• Rooms & Rates: Around $180 per night. Stylishly restored rooms with vintage details and modern comfort.
• Dining & Entertainment: The Town Company, the hotel’s restaurant, is one of the city’s hottest dining spots. Downstairs, the Lobby Bar often features live music.
• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, pet-friendly.
• Pros: Rich history (former Kansas City Club building), unique design, vibrant nightlife.
• Cons: Street noise can filter into rooms on weekends.
• Booking Platforms: Booking.com, Hyatt’s official site (World of Hyatt members can use points here).
Recommended Hotel 3: Crossroads Hotel (Trendy Boutique Stay)
If you’re drawn to artsy neighborhoods, Crossroads Hotel is for you.
• Location: 2101 Central St, Kansas City, MO 64108 — smack in the Crossroads Arts District, home to galleries, breweries, and First Fridays art events.
• Rooms & Rates: Starting at $160 per night. Rooms have exposed brick walls, local art, and modern touches.
• Dining & Entertainment:
o Lazia: Italian-inspired restaurant with excellent handmade pasta.
o XR Café: Perfect for coffee and light bites.
o Percheron Rooftop Bar: Offers stunning city views and craft cocktails.
• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, event spaces, and partnerships with local artists.
• Pros: Creative vibe, rooftop bar, excellent location.
• Cons: Not ideal if you prefer a quiet, traditional hotel atmosphere.
• Booking Platforms: Hotels.com, Expedia, or directly through Crossroads Hotel’s website (they often promote packages tied to art events).
Recommended Hotel 4: Holiday Inn Kansas City Downtown (Budget-Friendly Comfort)
For budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort, Holiday Inn Kansas City Downtown – Aladdin is a solid choice.
• Location: 1215 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64105 — close to the Power & Light District and just a short walk from the KC Streetcar.
• Rooms & Rates: Typically $120 per night, sometimes less during off-peak times.
• Dining: On-site bar and restaurant, plus many affordable food options nearby.
• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, business center, valet parking.
• Pros: Affordable rates, reliable Holiday Inn service, central downtown location.
• Cons: Rooms are smaller compared to boutique hotels, and décor is more traditional.
• Booking Platforms: IHG website (best for loyalty points), Priceline, or Agoda.
Booking Tips & Platforms
I’ve learned that the right booking platform can save you money and provide flexibility. For Kansas City hotels, these worked best for me:
• Booking.com: Great for free cancellation options.
• Expedia/Hotels.com: Often bundle deals (flight + hotel).
• Direct Hotel Websites: Sometimes offer perks like free breakfast or parking credits.
• Priceline Express Deals: If you’re flexible, you can score discounts of up to 40%.
Pro tip: If you plan to stay in Kansas City during events like Chiefs or Royals games or festivals, book early — rooms fill up quickly.
Choosing a hotel in Kansas City depends on your priorities. For me, staying at 21c Museum Hotel was unforgettable because it wasn’t just a hotel — it was part of my cultural exploration. But if I were planning different types of trips:
• Luxury Escape: The Fontaine.
• Historic & Boutique: Hotel Kansas City.
• Trendy & Artsy: Crossroads Hotel.
• Budget-Friendly: Holiday Inn Downtown.
Kansas City is wonderfully diverse when it comes to accommodations. Whether you want to immerse yourself in art, history, nightlife, or just find a clean bed near the action, there’s something here for every traveler.
And honestly? That’s what makes Kansas City so enjoyable. The city’s hotels mirror its personality: warm, creative, a little surprising, and full of character.
