A Return to Hyatt Regency Crown Center

You may remember that my first stay at the Hyatt Regency Crown Center in Kansas City was less than ideal. As I mentioned at the end of that post, the hotel contacted me and we agreed to return and give them another chance.

We arrived in Kansas City on New Year's Day. The hotel was hosting a huge wedding party and was very busy. Happily the front desk had plenty of staff to handle the number of guests checking in. There were even enough bellmen- one brought up our luggage, a nice change from our last stay.

Unfortunately we encountered two rather problematic situations when we entered our room. After our long drive a restroom visit was necessary for a couple of girls. We found out very quickly that the toilet was clogged. The second problem was the very strong evidence that the non-smoking room had housed a smoker quite recently.

When the bellman arrived with our luggage I pointed out these problems to him. A call was placed to the front desk and we were moved to a new room before we had even unloaded our bags.

All the rooms are very similar. Two beds- quite comfortable- TV, dresser, mini fridge, desk, reading chair, bathroom. Everything was clean and neat and our room looked out at the World War I Memorial.

I was impressed when, a while later, we received a small "thank you" from the assistant manager of the hotel.


The fruit, bread and water arrived with a note thanking us for giving the hotel another chance. It was a nice touch- and much appreciated as the Crown Center restaurants were all closed on New Year's Day and I had a couple of hungry little girls!

Our check out the next morning was hassle free. We called down for a bellman and one was at our door within 5 minutes.

In retrospect:

The hotel seemed more fully staffed during this visit. The service we received was friendly and quick. It was a very pleasant stay and we will use this hotel for future visits to Crown Center.

What you should know:

Parking is an extra daily charge. A ramp is next door to the hotel. Self parking is around $14 daily, valet is around $18 daily. This is common for hotels in the area. Parking is included in some hotel packages.

Wifi is free in the lobby but is $9.99 in the room. Wireless service in the rooms is provided by Tmobile- which means you have to sign up for an account. (My biggest pet peeve is hotels that charge for wireless.)

Everything in the Crown Center area is in easy walking distance. The shops, entertainment, restaurants... Even Union Station is just a short stroll away.

Hotel Review
Kansas City

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Gastropub Dinner with Irish Celebrity Chef Kevin Dundon at Raglan Road in Kansas City

I'm pretty sure that celebrity chef dinners happen quite often in places like Los Angeles and New York. And maybe even in Chicago. But it's not really something that happens in the center of the country so when I saw that one of my favorite Kansas City restaurants, Raglan Road, was hosting a Gastropub Dinner with Master Chef Kevin Dundon (Ireland's Chef of the Year 2009) we made the drive down for dinner.

Yes, we drove 3 hours- one way- for dinner. And drove back that night. Yes, it was worth it!

Kevin and his wife Catherine own and operate the incredible Dunbrody Country House Hotel in Arthurstown, County Wexford, Ireland. (It is, incidentally, across the road from Glendine House, where we stayed in 2008.)

We were lucky enough to meet Kevin briefly before dinner and again after the meal. It's no wonder his hotel is so highly rated: the man exudes Irish charm. And he can cook! Our meal was incredible! Forget what impressions you may have of Irish food- this isn't typical "pub grub"...

Our four course meal began with a choice of Warm Goat Cheese and Orange Salad with Caramelized Walnuts or Mini Beef and Lamb Shepherds Pie with a Port Wine Jus. I can't speak about the salad, though it looked incredible, because everyone at my table had the Shepherds Pie. The flavors of the meats with the port wine jus...fabulous. I loved the presentation of the potatoes artfully balanced on top with a caramelized onion leaf. Delish!

The second course was Maine Lobster Bisque. I'm not a huge fan of lobster but the bisque was very flavorful and creamy. Of course the presentation was incredible...

The entree followed. The choices were Roast Pork Belly with an Irish Mist and Honey Glaze served with Pickled Cabbage or Crispy Pan Seared Salmon served on a Ragout of Winter Vegetables. I chose the pork belly. I cut it with a butter knife. It was so tender and flavorful. The glaze was so sweet- I'm going to have to do my best to recreate it. Doug had the salmon. He pronounced it perfectly prepared and "excellent".


And then came dessert. Merely calling the Chocolate Fondant with Irish Stout Ice Cream "dessert" is almost too plain. Though it appeared unassuming on sight there is really no way to describe the incredible richness of the chocolate, how the surface opened to reveal an interior of molten chocolate or how truly decadent it was.

The Gastropub Dinners at Raglan Road just began in summer 2009 but response has been positive and the restaurant plans to do more- one per quarter at each restaurant (there is another location at Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney, Orlando, Florida.) To keep up to date on upcoming events check out the "Get In Here" page on Raglan Road's website or follow @RaglanRoadPub on Twitter.

If you're really wanting a taste of Ireland try some of Kevin Dundon's recipes for yourself! The mini shepherds pie recipe is in the "starters" section, there is a lovely loin of bacon in Irish Mist glaze in the "mains", and an Irish whiskey chocolate fondant in the "desserts". I have a feeling my annual St. Patrick's feast may have some new dishes this year! Sláinte!

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Model Trains at Union Station

Union Station in Kansas City is still an active depot for Amtrak. During the height of train travel in 1917 nearly 80,000 trains came through the station. Though you won't see as many trains going through the station these days the heart of Union Station is still with that golden age.

One example of this is the amazing Holiday Village Train display in the main lobby. It opens the day after Thanksgiving and stays up until the Sunday after New Year.



It's really quite an incredible display. There were at least 7 full trains (including the Polar Express) and a handful of trolleys rolling on the miles of track. It's truly astounding.

It takes a couple of months to get this display built and running so if you visit in the months of September and October you may see just what goes into the creation of such a huge display.

Not visiting during the holiday season? Not to worry. Hidden off the side of the North Waiting Room is the Kansas City Lionel Club's model train display. This display is staffed by the members of the club, so it may be "hit or miss" on the display being open. Though the set up is permanent the trains running are brought in by the members. And they are happy to answer questions. If you're really good they may even let you blow the whistle!

Things To Do
Kansas City

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Chasing Chocolate: The Chocolate Exhibition at Union Station, Kansas City, Missouri

Like chocolate? Then you'll want to head down to Union Station in Kansas City because the Chocolate Exhibition has been extended thru January 17!

The national tour of Chocolate the Exhibition was developed by the Field Museum and is nearing the end of it's national tour.

(Photos are not allowed inside the exhibit. I was allowed special access to share some of the exhibit with my readers.)

The exhibit takes you from chocolate's humble beginnings as a very large pod filled with seeds. Learning about the cocoa seeds was incredibly informative. From bugs to birds, plants to people, everything has to be "just right" for the large pods to grow.

There were many interactive displays that helped us to keep the girls interested, though I did notice that we had the only children in the exhibit. I did think that was a shame- what kid doesn't like chocolate? And the process from seed to bar is just amazing.

The girls- and even myself- were fascinated by the value chocolate had as money. It was so valuable that most couldn't afford to drink it. Think of it like drinking your money. It was used to buy every day items like eggs, tomatoes, peppers and avocados. It wasn't sold in markets and was kept locked away.

Even when chocolate came to Europe it was only enjoyed by the upper classes for many years. Special cups and pots were used for it. In fact, the saucer was invented to keep chocolate from dripping onto clothes.

Mass production of chocolate is a recent event- and the addition of milk (ie: milk chocolate) made it affordable to everyone.

The large "box of chocolates" wall with televisions was a great ending to the exhibit. The girls sat on "chocolate cup" chairs and listened to scientists and "regular people" talk about the "happiness effect" chocolate has and how it is dangerous for dogs.

Of course you can't end a chocolate tour without a taste of what you've learned about... The samples are available as long as they last. Yum!

There is also a gift shop at the exit. Sadly it seemed to be sparsely populated. I fully expected chocolates galore... The offerings were a disappointment after such an interesting exhibition.

Want to go? Here's the info:






























Disclosure: We were provided tickets to this exhibit. Thoughts and photos are my own.

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Sometimes There is No Escaping the Weather

Sometimes even the best laid plans go awry. We had planned to leave the cold of Iowa for a brief sojourn in Texas- first with stops in Dallas to visit family then down to Houston to relax at The Woodlands Resort.

Unfortunately the weather we wanted so badly to escape will actually be holding us hostage. After a snowstorm a week ago practically shut down our city for 2 days another one- this one with freezing rain and ice- is bringing "travel not advised" warnings, towing bans and dangerous conditions.

I don't care how much I enjoy travel, I'm not one to risk my family's well-being for a little sun. So no Texas for us right now, though we will be enjoying the Kansas City part of our adventure- if the weather doesn't get in the way of it, too!

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Chocolate at Union Station in Kansas City

On our way home from Houston we'll be making a stop in Kansas City to enjoy Chocolate the Exhibition at Union Station.

Did you know that Americans eat, on average, 12 pounds of chocolate per person per year? Or that each chocolate pod is about the size of a pineapple and holds enough seeds to make seven milk chocolate or two dark chocolate bars?

This Saturday (December 12) you can enjoy a chocolate chip pancake breakfast before exploring the exhibit. YUM! Or head down on Thursday, December 17 for chocolate and vodka tasting (advance registration required). Chocolate samples are also available- while supplies last.






































Disclosure: Our tickets to Chocolate the Exhibition were given to us in exchange for this article.

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On the Road Again

I've been working on plans for the past few weeks for a winter getaway for us. Because Doug's family is in Texas it made sense to plan something in the south. We haven't been down in almost 3 years and it will, hopefully, be warmer there than our home in Iowa in late December. Here's the plans so far:

A bright and early departure and 12+ hour drive to Dallas. I'm not yet sure where we will be staying. Any recommendations for family friendly lodgings?

We'll spend 2 days in Dallas then head down to Houston to stay 3 nights at The Woodlands Resort. Hopefully it will be nice enough for the girls to play in the pool. We're looking forward to relaxing and enjoying the nature trails. Any Houston experts have a "not to be missed" attraction?

Our drive back will also begin early, but we won't do it in one day. We'll come back through Louisana and Arkansas with a stop in Ozark, Missouri at Lambert's- the home of the Throwed Roll. We've eaten at Lambert's once, years ago and can't wait to take the girls.

After filling our bellies we'll drive a few more hours to Kansas City for a good night's rest. Then another filling meal: Irish Breakfast at Raglan Road before we visit Chocolate: the Exhibition at Union Station.


We'll need the chocolate buzz for the drive home.

Look for individual posts about our destinations and activities coming soon! And be sure to give me some Houston tips!

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Kansas City Irish Fest, Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City Irish Fest, one of Kansas City's favorite festivals, takes place Labor Day weekend, Friday thru Sunday, at Crown Center. Though this was our first time at the festival, 2009 marked the 7th year of celebrating Celtic pride in "Cowtown".

Though I had browsed the website and tried to keep up with band announcements and other goings on at Tir na Blog I felt unprepared for the festival itself. I wasn't sure just how family friendly it would be- or how crowded.

I shouldn't have worried. After 7 years the organizers have the festival down to a science. Let me take you on a little tour...

Are you curious about the cows? Kansas City is often called "Cowtown" because, back when cattle roamed the range and cowboys "drove" cattle instead of ATVs, many of those herds ended their journey in Kansas City before becoming a juicy steak.

Entertainment

There's no lack of entertainment. From over a dozen great Irish bands - everything from traditional pub tunes to new sounds that don't compromise tradition- comedians and Irish dancers there is never a question of, "Is there something to do?" it's a question of, "How can we do it all?"

The main stages, the Boulevard Stage and the State Street Stage, are at opposite ends of the grounds; far enough that they don't overwhelm each other.

In between are the children's stage- which features puppets, storytelling, kids bands and workshops- and the Heritage Stage where you'll learn Irish history, tips on genealogy, pick up a bit of the Irish language and maybe take a turn in a Ceili.

This year Barry FitzGerald from Ghost Hunters International was on hand telling stories about the wee folk around Ireland.



For the Kids

Don't even think the kids are going to get bored. Sprinkled around the festival grounds are bounce houses (a fee applies for these), 3 children's areas with activities, Irish Rock Band and Dance Dance Jig Jig Revolution. Trust me, you won't run out of things to do!

Irish Organizations

Whether you're Irish- or you just wish you were- stop by the tents run by Kansas City's Irish Organizations. Learn what they are doing- and what they have helped to do in the past.

Food & Drinks

It's a sad fact... You cannot get a Guinness at Irish Fest. Nor can you get a hard cider of any sort. Blame that on the fact that Boulevard Brewing Company is in Kansas City. Other alcoholic beverages are served as well as sodas and water. If buying from a beverage tent you must have drink tickets.

Food ranges from traditional Irish fare- Fish & chips, pasties- to fair foods like pizza, turkey legs and ice cream. No one will leave hungry. If you can't find anything that suits you just leave the festival grounds (get your hand stamped for re-admittance) and head into Crown Center - where the food may actually cost less!

For a great Irish Breakfast head to Raglan Road. You won't be disappointed.

Shops

No festival is complete without shopping. If it's Irish you'll find it here. Food, clothing, jewelry, penny whistles, art, photography, crafts...

Where to Go When You've Gotta Go

The festival grounds are lined with porta-potties. These aren't too disgusting until late evening. A baby changing station is located near the children's area in the center of the festival grounds.

Irish Museum and Cultural Center

With all the fun going on it's esy to forget about the Irish Museum and Cultural Center in nearby Union Station. We stopped in to buy a book and spent quite a bit of time there listening to Tom Meehan, an Irish balladeer. He was very kind and let Brenna sing a few songs with him- Irish Rover, Leaving Liverpool and Molly Malone.

Where to Stay

Crown Center has two hotels : Hyatt Regency Crown Center and Westin Crown Center.

Things To Do
Kansas City

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Hyatt Regency Crown Center

Note: This post has been updated; please see comments at the end of the post.

This was originally posted 9/21/09
I am, quite honestly, torn about this hotel. While it was nice and the location is on the Link (skywalk system around the Crown Center complex) I really expected to enjoy my stay here more than I did.

I had great expectations before we even arrived. One of the reasons we chose the Hyatt Regency was because I could get adjoining rooms- meaning they have an interior door between them. My mom and cousin were joining us for KC Irish Fest; because I know my girls (and how much they love their grandma) I knew they would want to be with her. But I didn't want them roaming in the halls. Score one for Hyatt.

A few days before we left I called the hotel to confirm that we would have adjoining rooms. I had what was possibly the greatest telephone customer service I have ever received. Score two for Hyatt.

Then came our arrival. We came into town for the most popular festival of the year. Unfortunately the hotel didn't seem like it was fully staffed to service the guests. Check in lines were very long- and very slow. And while a trolley was loaded with our bags by the bellman, it was left for us to take to the room and return to the lobby. (Which wasn't really a problem until time to check out. More on that later.) Strike one for Hyatt.

On top of that, I received tickets to the festival. Which would have been great if the special rates page on their website would have mentioned it. It didn't, so I purchased our tickets from the festival itself. Which means I spent money on tickets I didn't need. And the person handling my check in was a bit snooty when I said that the website hadn't mentioned festival tickets. When she said that she was "positive it did" I opened my computer and showed her the image of the page I ordered from. When she had to admit that I was correct she wasn't very nice about it. Strike two for Hyatt.

On to the rooms. They were adjoining (yea!) and both were quite roomy. Both had a small refrigerator and a nice sized dresser and desk. The bathrooms were large, as well, with marble counter tops and spacious bathtubs.

My only issue with the rooms, and I find this with a lot of hotels, is that there is a charge for internet access. I don't understand this. And, even worse, you had to be online to sign up for the T-mobile service, so you couldn't do it from the room. Luckily I was able to pick up a very weak unsecured signal- possibly from the lobby?- but even with a paid internet connection the signal was spotty and we had to be in front of a window for it to work. Ball one for Hyatt.

Breakfast is not included with your room rate. We knew this, so it wasn't a surprise. Crown Center restaurants are close, including Panera and Einstein Bagels. If you are visiting on a weekend head up to Raglan Road for an exquisite Irish breakfast.

Check out was when things got really annoying. Because we had rolled the trolley up to our room on arrival I sent Doug down to get one. He was told he couldn't have one because, "Those are for our arriving guests." What? It's not quite 10am and people are checking out. I was a bit annoyed and called down to the customer service counter who told me someone would be "right up" with a trolley. Well, right up certainly didn't mean anytime soon as we waited half an hour. I called back down. Seems we were "forgotten". Nice.

I went down to the lobby with the girls to check out, leaving Doug upstairs with the luggage. As I was paying I commented to the clerk at the counter about what had happened. "We only have two bellman on today and they need the carts to do their job." OK, fine. So why were there more carts when we arrived- and why did we do their job then? I received no answer. Strike three for Hyatt.

While I'm sure the poor customer service can be chalked up to the business of the festival weekend it seems to me that a hotel that is directly beside the festival grounds would be staffed for the occasion. Overall the hotel seemed short-staffed and the staff appeared stressed. Whatever the reason I am unsure if I will stay here again.

Note: parking rates are additional to room rates unless included in a package. This is common around Crown Center.

Update: I received an email, followed by a phone call, from the manager of this hotel within a week of my review. We spoke at length about my stay and the problems we experienced. While the manager acknowledged that the hotel was very busy due to the festival that was going on she also said that the lack of customer service was unacceptable. I truly appreciate that the hotel contacted me directly and is working very hard to rectify the problems we experienced.

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Raglan Road Irish Pub, Kansas City, Missouri

The Raglan Road website gives a great visual of the pub being built in Ireland and "plunked down" in the US. Of course they are talking about the first Raglan Road in Orlando. They did the same thing with the Kansas City pub- you can even see how right here. Just go back through the archives.

The pub's two bars were hand crafted from salvaged materials found in Ireland- some from past pubs. The wood shines, the bottles stacked behind the bar sparkle and the atmosphere makes you want to dance a ceili in entry.

We visited Raglan Road for the traditional Irish breakfast they were serving during Irish Fest. It was almost like being in Ireland again. It was delish! And, according to Tir na Blog, the inside guide to the KC Irish Fest:

In other Raglan Road news, that delicious traditional Irish breakfast they served Irish Fest weekend, the one my mother raved about, is now a regular feature on weekends from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

My cousin, who was a bit put off by the thought of black pudding, pronounced it "really good". Will they have the rest of their amazing breakfast menu? I'm not sure. But I can totally vouch for the French Toast with berry compote and fresh cream. Oh. My. Gosh. Yummy.

If you can't make it for breakfast Raglan Road has a wonderful dinner menu. I wish I had remembered to take my camera along because the presentation was beautiful. The Scallop Forest appetizer was presented on the tines of forks, the Not Bleedin' Chowder was filled with huge chunks of seafood, the Salmon of Knowledge looked good enough for me to eat it (and I don't like salmon) and the Sod the Stew was presented in a small cauldron.

Of course we weren't hungry after eating that but we couldn't resist the Bread & Butter pudding and the Bailey's Creme Brule Tart. Both were incredible. Truly, there are no words to describe how good they were.

Next time you're in Kansas City head downtown and take in Raglan Road Irish Pub. Whether you enjoy their breakfast or dinner- or skip the food altogether and just head in for a pint and the live music- it's as close to Ireland as you're likely to get in the middle of the US.

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National World War I Museum & Liberty Memorial, Kansas City, Missouri, USA

On November 1, 1921 five Allied leaders, Lieutenant General Baron Jacques of Belgium; General Armando Diaz of Italy; Marshal Ferdinand Foch of France; General John J. Pershing of the United States; and Admiral David Beatty of Great Britain, came together across from Union Station for the dedication of the Liberty Memorial.

Today this plaque and a bust of each man marks the spot where they stood and addressed over 200,000 people. It was the only time in history the leaders were together in one place.

As you walk up north lawn you begin to notice the Great Frieze, one of the largest frieze carvings in the world. Sculpted by Edmond Amateis is measures 148 feet long and 18 feet tall. Depicting the process from war to peace it is amazing to view.

Note: approaching the National WW I Museum and Liberty Memorial this way requires a lot of climbing. I did notice wheelchair ramps but they were very steep. The entrance to the National WW I Museum can be more easily reached from the free parking on W. 26th Street.

The National War Museum sits below the base to the south of the Liberty Memorial. It can be reached by stairs from the memorial or by a walkway from the parking lot. The front doors are imposing but the lobby is bright and quite open.

The main corridor is lined with an interactive portrait gallery of those who participated in World War I. Touch screen stations tell their stories.

To enter the museum, the Memory & Exhibit Halls and to go to the top of the Liberty Memorial requires purchase of a ticket. Currently the museum is $8, the Memorial is $4 and a combination ticket is $10. Seniors, youth and military have special rates. For current price information click here. Museum hours are Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5 pm. It is closed Mondays except Memorial Day and Labor Day.

To enter the museum you cross the Paul Sunderland Bridge, a glass floor that spans a field of 9,000 poppies; one poppy for every 1000 combatant deaths in World War I.

Depending on your timing you will either enter the William Thornton Kemper Theater and view a short film that explains the world events that led to the war. Otherwise you will begin viewing the exhibits and will be called back to view the film. I recommend watching it; there is much insight in it.

Inside the museum are artifacts, time lines, interactive tables, galleries, incredible propaganda posters... Anything and everything having to do with World War I. It was, honestly, too much for the girls to take in but I know Doug would have liked to spend more time there. It is fascinating. By learning our past we can plot our future. To view some of the exhibits check out this slideshow.

The Horizon Theater, at the rear of the museum, show a 15 minute film that begins with the question, "Should America enter the war?".

Also in the museum building are restrooms, water fountains, the Over There Cafe (their food is named for people and places of World War I) and the museum store.

As you climb the steps to the Liberty Memorial (there are very nice ramps on this side of the memorial, as well) stop to notice the Sphinxes on either side. Both have wings shielding their faces: Memory to block the horrors of the war and Future to symbolize what is yet unseen. You can also reach this level via elevator.

On either side of the Liberty Memorial are two identical buildings: Memory Hall and Exhibit Hall.

Memory Hall is filled with personal memories and amazing murals. It's impossible to describe the emotion I felt as I walked through here.

Exhibit Hall houses rotating exhibits and also has amazing murals.

My favorite mural, over the entrance of Memory Hall.

A close up of the banner:

The Liberty Tower is 217 feet high. Visitors can access the top via elevator + a 45 stair climb. It is not handicapped accessible.

Also in the National World War I Museum:

Public Research Room Admission is free.

Class and conference rooms

J.A. Nichols Auditorium Often used for museum programs, lectures and films.

Thoughts: My girls were fascinated by the displays in the museum. Though they bored relatively quickly they did ask many questions and I know we will return here as they get older. Precious pieces of our history are here reminding us not to forget.

Crown Center is located next to the World War I Museum and offers restaurants, hotels, shopping and entertainment.

Things To Do
Kansas City

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Crown Center, Kansas City, Missouri

Crown Center is an all-in-one family fun zone. Truly. From shopping to dining, free entertainment indoors and out, live theater, Kaleidoscope, and the Hallmark visitor's Center this is an attraction unto itself!

Map of Crown Center

Crown Center was designed as a mixed-use development and covers 85 acres. First envisioned by the founder of Hallmark Cards and his son the Crown Center development has helped to redevelop the area. Crown Center has more than 2 million square feet of office space, 300,000 square feet of leasable space in the shopping center , a six-acre residential community and two hotels: the Westin Crown Center and the Hyatt Regency Crown Center.

Probably the greatest part of the entire area, though is Crown Center Square, home to Kansas City's largest fountain - a very popular place to cool off in the summer - free summer movies and concerts, the Ice Terrace in the winter and great local events all year long.

Free things to do:
The Hallmark Visitors Center: With exhibits that are always changing and the chance to visit with the craftiest people at Hallmark. The tour is interactive so it's fun for everyone. Don't forget to download a coupon for a free gift after your tour!
Kaleidoscope: A free hands-on art experience for kids ages 5-12; sponsored by Hallmark.

Events: Check the events calendar for free events going on both in Crown Center and outside on the Square. Concerts, movies, kids activities... There is always something going on!

Shopping:
Dozens of shops are in Crown Center, including Hall's (FYI: $$$). Luckily other shops are much more affordable. This interactive map gives you an idea of the diverse offerings.

We made a quick stop in Chips Chocolate Factory where handmade chocolates and imported truffles sit side by side tempting you. Of course the decision isn't easy. Jumbo peanut butter cup? Chocolate dipped Twinkie sprinkled with M&Ms? Fresh fudge? Or maybe some choose-your-own M&Ms? I recommend the Australian Kookaburra Licorice. Mmmm...

Dining:
From 4-star to fast food you'll find all the variety you need. The interactive dining map will direct you to everything from burgers to bagels, custard to creme brulee, steaks to scallops.

For really good burgers and a server like you'll find nowhere else check out Fritz's Railroad Restaurant. The railroad theme is everywhere with model trains running throughout the restaurant. The menu is simple- mainly burgers- but quite good. I highly recommend the Jody Burger (and not just because it bears my name, though that is why I got it!) Orders are placed by phone. But it's the delivery that will wow you:

For kid -and parent- friendly food the Crayola Cafe is a safe bet. The placemats double as an artist's canvas. There are plenty of food options including salads, sandwiches and wraps, pasta and fish. I suggest splitting an entree and saving room for dessert!

Theatre:

Coterie: Performances for the family plus classes!

American Heartland: Live, Broadway-style productions in a relaxed and personal theatre.

Off Center Theatre: More edgy productions.

Nearby:

Union Station

WWI Memorial

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