Kansas City

500 miles from Chicago, Kansas City seems a world away. Straddling two states in America’s heartland, it has less than a quarter of the population of the Windy City, but though it’s a small town, it has big personality, and makes for an excellent weekend getaway from Chicago.

An important city in the early days of America, Kansas City is chock-full of historical sights, like the American Jazz Museum, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the World War I Museum. It gave birth to its own unique style of jazz, and its own unique style of barbecue, two traditions still evident throughout the city.

>> More on things to do in Kansas City

While most activities are in the downtown area, it can be difficult to get around relying solely on public transport. And as your options for getting from the airport to downtown are limited to an airport shuttle or a pricey cab, you may be better off renting a car.

>> More on public transport in Kansas City

This historic Hilton President hotel is right in the downtown core, along public transport lines, and a short walk to the Power and Light District and the City Market. The hotel offers free wi-fi and has onsite business and fitness centers plus a lounge and restaurant.

>> Check the Kansas City website for more hotel info.

Photo by Jim Nix