Kansas City welcomes travelers with a blend of jazz-era charm, creative energy, and Midwestern warmth. Whether you're wandering through the Country Club Plaza, exploring downtown’s buzzing arts scene, or catching live music in a tucked-away lounge, where you stay can shape your entire experience. From luxury hotels with rooftop views to cozy historic inns with porch swings, Kansas City’s accommodations reflect the city’s soulful character.
Where to Stay in Kansas City
The Fontaine
Elevated above the Country Club Plaza, the views from The Fontaine stretched across Spanish-style rooftops and city lights. I remember standing by the rooftop pool at sunset, thinking, "Kansas City holds more elegance than I ever imagined."
What I Loved Most: The mosaic-tiled rooftop pool, airy rooms, and marble-accented bathrooms that made it feel European with a Midwestern heart.
My highlight? A locally inspired charcuterie board and a crisp Sauvignon Blanc at Parker, the hotel’s stylish rooftop restaurant.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Chic, artistic, elevated
- Highlights: Rooftop pool, Plaza location, boutique design
- Best For: Stylish couples, business-meets-leisure travelers, weekend escapes
- Address: The Fontaine, Kansas City, MO
Southmoreland on the Plaza
Southmoreland on the Plaza felt like stepping into a genteel Kansas City story—fireplaces crackling, antique furniture glowing in morning light, and wraparound porches perfect for quiet thinking. I remember the scent of cinnamon and brewed coffee rising from the kitchen, thinking, "This feels like home, only better."
What I Loved Most: The B&B warmth, historic charm, and easy walk to the Plaza’s fountains and shops.
My highlight? A homemade quiche and fresh-baked scone in the sunroom, birdsong fluttering through the windows.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Cozy, historic, residential
- Highlights: Gourmet breakfast, garden patios, old-world hospitality
- Best For: Romantic getaways, solo retreats, charm seekers
- Address: Southmoreland on the Plaza, Kansas City, MO
Romantic Hotels in Kansas City:
Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown, an IHG Hotel
Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown felt like Kansas City's jazz heartbeat—art deco details, vintage notes, and an energy that was both modern and nostalgic. I remember glancing out at the city skyline from my window and thinking, "This hotel hums with history."
What I Loved Most: The blend of music-inspired decor, rich colors, and proximity to the Power & Light District.
My highlight? A smoky bourbon cocktail at the lobby bar followed by shrimp and grits that hit every soulful note.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Artsy, downtown, jazz-era cool
- Highlights: Walkability, retro-modern design, local flair
- Best For: Culture lovers, music fans, foodies
- Address: Hotel Indigo Kansas City Downtown, Kansas City, MO
AC Hotels by Marriott Kansas City Westport
AC Hotel by Marriott Kansas City Westport felt like stepping into clean-lined sophistication with just the right amount of cool. Westport buzzed just outside the doors, but inside was calm, modern, and wonderfully efficient. I remember flipping through a magazine in the sleek lobby lounge, thinking, "This place gets the balance just right."
What I Loved Most: Minimalist style, walkable location to bars and cafés, and the signature breakfast with European touches.
My highlight? Morning croissants, espresso, and people-watching through floor-to-ceiling windows before wandering Westport’s shops.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Modern, clean, urban
- Highlights: European-style breakfast, walkable nightlife, sleek decor
- Best For: Solo travelers, couples, minimalist design lovers
- Address: AC Hotel Kansas City Westport, Kansas City, MO
Family Hotels in Kansas City:
The Raphael Hotel
The Raphael Hotel felt like a European castle on the edge of Kansas City’s most iconic neighborhood. Everything—from the doorman’s smile to the gold-rimmed wine glasses—felt timeless. I remember watching the fountains on the Plaza shimmer under twilight, thinking, "This is where old-world charm lives on."
What I Loved Most: The romantic atmosphere, luxurious details, and views of the Country Club Plaza.
My highlight? Pan-seared scallops and jazz piano at Chaz on the Plaza, followed by a moonlit stroll past the fountains.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Romantic, classic, elegant
- Highlights: Plaza views, fine dining, boutique luxury
- Best For: Honeymoons, anniversaries, luxury weekends
- Address: The Raphael Hotel, Kansas City, MO
InterContinental Kansas City At The Plaza
InterContinental Kansas City at The Plaza felt like a grand hotel with a front-row seat to the city’s most beloved district. I remember gazing from my balcony as lights twinkled across Spanish rooftops, thinking, "This view feels like Kansas City’s love letter."
What I Loved Most: The large balconies, elegant lobby, and the unbeatable location right next to Country Club Plaza.
My highlight? Late-night room service and a glass of wine on the balcony with the soft buzz of the Plaza below.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Grand, scenic, traditional
- Highlights: Balcony views, outdoor pool, proximity to shops and dining
- Best For: Families, upscale travelers, Plaza lovers
- Address: InterContinental Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
Ambassador Hotel
Ambassador Hotel Kansas City felt like modern luxury with a soul—set inside a historic building but styled for sleek city living. I remember looking up at the tall windows and thinking, "This is where Kansas City feels cosmopolitan."
What I Loved Most: The plush rooms, deep soaking tubs, and the stylish cocktail bar tucked off the lobby.
My highlight? A slow evening over craft cocktails and truffle fries at The American Reserve, savoring the buzz of downtown.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Sophisticated, upscale, city-chic
- Highlights: Luxe bedding, downtown location, historic-meets-modern design
- Best For: Business travelers, couples, staycationers
- Address: Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
Conclusion
From skyline-facing suites to B&Bs steeped in charm, Kansas City offers a wide range of places to stay that mirror the city's diversity and heart. Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a solo getaway, you’ll find accommodations that elevate your time in the city and keep you close to all the action.
Make the most of your stay by pairing it with the best things to do in Kansas City, planning an escape to one of the area’s day trip destinations, or exploring the city's most family-friendly experiences through this guide for kids and parents.