Country Club Plaza

July 2005, Brenna's first 4 star hotel
Country Club Plaza, Kansas City, Missouri

This has been one of our favorite weekend getaways, both before and after the birth of our daughters. Country Club Plaza has the feel of a European plaza; perfect for walking and full of beautiful art and architecture. Kansas City is called The City of Fountains; visiting here you can definitely see why.

There are plenty of places to stay; we usually choose the Raphael Hotel located just across Brush Creek from the plaza. From the moment you enter you know that you are someplace special. The decor is both antique and contemporary, creating a feeling of welcome. It is very easy to sit in the lobby sipping coffee and carry on conversations with other guests.

The suites are spacious and include a pull-out couch, desk, television in both rooms, and free high speed internet. The bathrooms are small and unimpressive but the water pressure is strong and the water is hot. The fluffy bathrobes (also available for purchase) pick up where the bathroom lets you down. And a treat awaits you on your bed in the evening; chocolates one night, cookies the next.

Country Club Plaza was created for shopping. Clothing, toys, books and wonderful local boutiques; from upscale to ordinary you'll find it here.

The list of restaurants has wide range. McDonalds for the kids? Got it. Starbucks for your morning java? Yep. Panera for a fresh morning bagel? It's here. We always try to stop at KC Masterpiece for their excellent BBQ. Besides,it's where Doug proposed.

My personal favorite is The Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant. Make a dessert reservation, if nothing else. There is just something decadent about melted chocolate.

If shopping isn't your thing the Kansas City Zoo is just minutes away. The zoo is separated into "continents" accessible by train, boat or foot. You can also schedule a Segway or golf cart tour. The Kansas City Zoo is currently the 10th largest zoo in the country; there is something here for everyone.