Nestled on the banks of the Missouri River on the western edge of Missouri is one of the most dynamic cities in the Midwest. Kansas City is famous for its saucy barbeque, historic jazz scene, and hundreds of beautiful fountains. But dig a little deeper and you’ll quickly find out there’s a lot more going on in this one-of-a-kind city!

If this is your first visit to KC, you can easily while away the days shopping for local artisanal goods at the bustling outdoor City Market (aka River Market), eating and drinking your way through the historic Power & Light District, and sampling addictive KC-style barbecue at the city’s many iconic eateries. 

And when it comes to world-class museums, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Learn about the city’s jazz heritage at the American Jazz Museum, peruse 40,000 works of art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, or get a sobering glimpse of WWI at the National World War I Museum and Memorial.

Sports fans will definitely want to time their visit to catch a Chiefs or Royals game. And history buffs will love exploring Westport, which is the oldest and most popular neighborhood in the city. Plus, there are always excellent live events and concerts happening at T-Mobile Center! 

With its historic Art Deco-style buildings and unique culture, it’s no surprise that Kansas City boasts all sorts of luxurious historic hotels, art-filled boutique hotels, and revamped warehouse-style retreats. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Kansas City to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Hotels In Kansas City, Missouri

Where to Stay in Kansas City

It’s no surprise that some of the best hotels in Kansas City are located in the city’s buzzing downtown. Base yourself in the heart of town and you’ll be able to walk to the bustling River Market, the trendy Power & Light District, and all of the city’s main attractions. 

Sports fans will definitely want to pick a hotel in East Side for easy access to the Chiefs Arrowhead Stadium and the Royals Kauffman Stadium. Alternately, Village West is home to the Kansas Speedway – a major draw for NASCAR fans! Or, if you’re looking for a cool boutique hotel surrounded by trendy eateries and historic sites, Westport is the perfect pick! 

If you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, the Country Club District is a great place to base yourself. Not only will you find plenty of luxury hotels in this upscale part of town but you’ll be a stone’s throw away from all of the high-end shops and restaurants of Country Club Plaza. Plus, the incredible Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art are both located in this part of town.

But no matter where you decide to base yourself, you’re sure to find an incredible KC hotel. Plus, the city’s free public transportation system makes getting from place to place a cinch!

12 Best Boutique Hotels In Kansas City, Missouri

1. The Fontaine

There’s a lot to love the about The Fontaine. Step inside and you’ll immediately be impressed by the custom mosaics set in the marble floor, beautiful Renaissance portraits, and hand-blown Venetian glass chandeliers. Plus, you’ll be greeted by some of the friendliest staff in town! 

One of the coolest things about this boutique hotel is the rooftop terrace. You can easily spend your days enjoying the complimentary European breakfasts in the Solarium Lounge, swimming in the rooftop pool, and sipping sunset cocktails at the rooftop bar. Head down to the basement, where you’ll find a fully outfitted gym if you want to stay in shape during your trip.  

You can dine on American comfort food at the hotel’s popular rooftop bar and restaurant, Parker. Expect delectable dishes from meatloaf sandwiches to short rib grilled cheeses to quinoa and kale power bowls. On certain days, you can also enjoy happy hour specials, live music, and boozy brunch menus on the rooftop. 

The spacious rooms are splashed in dark gray and white color schemes. Expect all sorts of stylish touches, including oversized woven velvet headboards, fine art tapestries, and white Carrera marble baths. When you want to go out and explore, all of the shops and restaurants of the upscale Country Club Plaza Shopping District are right outside your door!

2. 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City

Art enthusiasts will definitely want to stay at 21c Museum Hotel. The boutique hotel and art museum is brimming with funky installations, rotating exhibits, and cultural programs. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a museum – because you pretty much are!

The stylish rooms and suites are just as incredible as the hotel itself. You’ll love the ultra-comfy beds, colorful original artwork, and luxe ensuites with Malin+Goetz bath products. 

If you’re in town for a special occasion, the 21c Suite is worth the splurge for its contemporary living room and massive private rooftop deck! With 360-degree views over the city, it’s the perfect spot to gather for drinks with a group of friends. 

You’ll definitely want to enjoy at least one meal and drink at the hotel’s historic restaurant and lounge. The Savoy was once the oldest restaurant west of the Mississippi and still stands proud as one of the best restaurants in Kansas City. Expect refined, locally sourced Midwest-inspired fare and excellent creative cocktails. 

The hotel also boasts a 24-hour fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms if you’re traveling with your furry friend!

3. Ambassador Hotel Kansas City

Whether you’re in town for work or play the Ambassador Hotel is one of the best hotels in Kansas City. Set right in the heart of downtown, you’re just a stone’s throw away from T-Mobile Center, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and the Kansas City Convention Center. Plus, all the trendy bars, restaurants, and shops of the Power & Light District are just down the road!

You’ll love unwinding in the contemporary rooms, which boast custom furnishings, 55-inch flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, and spacious workstations with ergonomic chairs. For larger groups or special celebrations, book the bi-level loft for its stylish living room, wet bar, and large windows with sweeping city views. 

One of the coolest things about the Ambassador Hotel is that it’s home to the upscale jazz club, Lonnie’s Reno Club. It’s the perfect place to gather with your friends and enjoy live music and the pre-fixed menu. For an intimate dining experience, head over to The American Reserve for handcrafted cocktails and upscale dishes.

4. Hotel Kansas City

Set inside a beautiful 1922 Gothic Revival-style building, the Hotel Kansas City is hailed as the best boutique hotel in Kansas City. Plus, this place is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you know it’s something special! 

Once home to the premiere Kansas City Club, Hotel Kansas City is the perfect blend of historic elegance and modern convenience. You’ll love the magazine-worthy, 1920s-inspired rooms. Expect vintage-inspired custom furnishings, whimsical decor, and Carrara marble baths. If you want to go big, the top-floor suite is the epitome of luxury and offers unbeatable city views. 

When it comes to food and drink, you’ll be spoiled for choice. You can grab locally roasted Messenger Coffee and gourmet breakfast items at the Lobby Cafe in the mornings. And in the evenings, enjoy handcrafted cocktails and light bites at the Lobby Bar before heading to The Town Company for modern Kansas City fare.

Hotel Kansas City is located right in the heart of town. Plus, there’s a free KC Streetcar one block away if you want to visit the city’s top attractions like the River Market or Union Station.

5. Crossroads Hotel

Crossroads is all about celebrating the history, art, and culture of Kansas City. Located in a former warehouse in the vibrant Art District, it’s no surprise that the hotel is home to a rotating gallery featuring works from their very own artist-in-residence program. Explore the property and you’ll find all sorts of amazing art, décor, and fixtures created by KC-based artists, designers, and business owners.  

The industrial-chic rooms boast exposed brick walls, workstations with leather chairs, and designer light fixtures and decor made by local artisans. There are a variety of rooms to choose from, including luxe bunk rooms if you’re traveling with friends or the entertainment-centric H.S. Truman Parlor if you’re in town for a bachelor party. 

One of the coolest things about Crossroads is the rooftop beer garden, where you can play bocce ball and sip brews with a view. If you’re hungry, head down to XR in the lobby for excellent antipasto, wood-fired pizza, and drinks. Or, for a more upscale dinner, Lazia specializes in old-world Italian fare with a modern twist and prides itself on its eclectic wine menu.   

6. The Truitt

If big hotel chains aren’t you’re thing, then The Truitt might just be the perfect pick. The former residence was built in 1916 by Elmore Shelton Truitt and was widely hailed as “one of the most attractive houses in the city.” Over 100 years later, The Truitt is now known as one of the best boutique hotels in Kansas City!

Step inside this incredible boutique hotel and you’ll immediately see what all the fuss about. Each of the impeccably decorated guestrooms and common areas looks like it was ripped straight from a design magazine. Even the expertly manicured gardens are picture-perfect!

The rooms are all individually decorated so expect a carefully curated mix of unique art, decor, and furnishings. No matter which room you choose, you’ll be greeted with luxurious extras like complimentary gourmet chocolate, Nest bath products, and Nespresso coffee.

Before hitting the town, you can fill up on the complimentary snacks in the lobby each morning. If you’re an avid sports fan, you’ll be steps away from the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

7. Hotel Indigo – Kansas City Downtown

Hotel Indigo is housed in the 1930s Brookfield Building, which was once home to ticket offices for a variety of train stations. From the Insta-worthy train mural in the lobby to the funky postmark wall art in the rooms, you’ll find all sorts of homages to the building’s storied past throughout this hip travel-themed hotel. 

Step inside the Great Gatsby-style lobby, where you’ll find black and white tiled floors, sparkling chandeliers, and elegant velvet furniture. The rooms are equally as impressive with their plush beds, spacious workstations, and beautifully appointed ensuites with designer toiletries. If you want to go all out, the suites are well worth the upgrade for their stylish separate living areas. 

Hotel Indigo is just steps away from all of the bars and restaurants in the Power & Light District. But if you want to eat at the hotel, Dott Boss serves up excellent locally sourced New American fare. 

Be sure to dine here for brunch when they serve up locally brewed Parisi coffee and addictive Mexican-inspired dishes like chilaquiles and breakfast tacos. If you want to work off all those calories, there’s also a fully outfitted gym at the hotel!

8. Hotel Phillips Kansas City

If you want to stay in one of the coolest hotels in Kansas City, Hotel Phillips is a great choice. Not only does this 1930s hotel ooze Art Deco charm but it’s located a few blocks from all of the Power & Light District’s theaters and nightlife venues. Plus, the hotel offers a free shuttle that will take you anywhere within three miles of the hotel. 

You’ll love the beautifully designed rooms. Expect to find luxurious features, including plush beds with oversized headboards and pillow-top mattresses, antique-style writing desks, and stylish ensuites with gold-trimmed vanities. 

Rooms are all outfitted with thoughtful extras – from the black-out shades to the Keurig coffeemakers. There’s also an onsite gym if you want to keep up with your workout routine during your stay. 

Hotel Phillips is surrounded by some of the city’s best bars and restaurants, but you’ll have excellent options at the hotel. Tavernonna Italian Kitchen serves up locally sourced dishes and fine wines in its elegant dining room. After dinner, head down to the basement, where you can search for the sleek 1930s-style speakeasy!

9. The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center 

The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center is the perfect pick if you want a luxurious stay in the heart of town. You’ll have easy access to top attractions, including Union Station, the Kansas City Convention Center, and the Power & Light District. But with so many cool amenities, you won’t have to leave the hotel if you don’t want to!

You can easily while away the hours relaxing in the whirlpool, taking a steam in the sauna, swimming laps in the outdoor heated swimming pool, jogging on the track, and playing a game of tennis on the tennis courts. Once you work up an appetite, head over to One East Urban Bar + Kitchen for American and Italian cuisine and craft beers and cocktails. 

At the end of the day, you’ll love unwinding in the contemporary rooms. Expect ultra-comfy Heavenly Beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, and deluxe ensuites with signature bath products. The Club-Level rooms are well worth the extra money for exclusive access to the Lounge’s amenities and the complimentary breakfasts.

10. Aloft North Kansas City 

If you want to stay in one of the coolest hotels in Kansas City, look no further than Aloft Hotel. This forward-thinking boutique hotel opened its doors in August 2020 so expect everything to be new, modern, and top of the line. 

Tucked away in North Kansas City, all of downtown’s main attractions are a quick 10-minute drive away. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by the neighborhood’s excellent shops, restaurants, and bars.

The stylish rooms are the perfect reprieve after a long day on the town. You’ll love the hardwood floors, 9-foot-high ceilings, funky wall art, and large picture windows with city views. Rooms are all outfitted with plush platform beds, 55-inch flat-screen TVs, and luxurious baths with walk-in showers. 

If you want to work out during your stay, the hotel boasts a state-of-the-art, 24-hour gym, as well as a heated indoor pool where you can do laps. Or, if you’d rather indulge, grab a drink, play a round of pool, and listen to live acoustic music in the buzzing lobby bar. 

11. Loews Kansas City 

Loews Kansas City is one of the newest hotels in the city. With easy access to all of downtown’s main attractions and direct access to the Kansas City Convention Center via a pedestrian bridge, this is the perfect pick, no matter if you’re in town for work or pleasure. 

Explore the property and you’ll find a state-of-the-art fitness center, a luxurious spa, and an indoor saltwater pool. In the mornings, you can order artisanal coffee drinks and grab-and-go breakfast items at the onsite market. 

After you return to the hotel after an action-packed day, sip custom bourbon-infused cocktails and dine on KC-style barbeque at The Stilwell. Alternately, Horse Feather Social is open seasonally and is the perfect place to socialize over craft beer and fine wine while taking in the city views. 

The rooms are the epitome of luxury and boast mid-century decor, 55-inch smart TVs, and beds with Stearns & Foster pillow-top mattresses. You’ll love the extras, including the terrycloth robes, Keurig coffeemakers with gourmet coffee, and iHome clock radios.

12. Hilton President Kansas City 

This historic 1920s hotel is set right in the heart of the Power & Light District. So, you’ll be steps away from all sorts of vibrant nightlife venues, restaurants, and theaters. Plus, this place is recognized by the Historic Hotels of America, so you know it’s something special!

The refreshingly spacious rooms are outfitted with Hilton Serenity beds topped with 250 thread count sheets, 37-inch HDTVs, and marble ensuites. If you want more space, the Parlor Suite is well worth the upgrade for the stylish living room, spacious bedroom, and floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows with stunning city views. 

In the mornings, you can grab your morning cup of joe at the onsite Starbucks. At night, dine on locally sourced new American fare at the hotel’s popular restaurant, Providence. 

If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, the Drum Room Lounge mixes up craft cocktails using fresh, regional, and homemade ingredients. Head here from 4-6 pm on weekdays for happy hour specials and light bites like fried feta, duck fat fries, and garlic-chili chicken wings.  

That completes our list of the 12 best Kansas City hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Kansas City, Missouri? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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