Kansas City was recently voted one of the “Destinations to Watch” in 2009 by SmarterTravel.com, and was the only city in the United States to do so. The destinations were chosen because of their up-and-coming, you’ve got to see this attitude, and the good value the city offers to travelers. Kansas City’s restaurant scene, affordability and downtown renovation were noted as key in SmaterTravel.com’s decision.
A major part of the downtown renovation includes the Kansas City Power and Light District, a booming, bustling entertainment district that has revitalized the downtown area. The Power and Light District is nine city blocks, over a half a million square feet, and features well over 40 restaurants, bars, retail shops and concert venues. This 850 million dollar project is one of the largest renovations in the Midwest, and certainly one of the best. The Cordish Company from Baltimore named the project after Kansas City’s historic Power and Light building, the original energy company for Kansas City.
Part of the Kansas City Power and Light District is KC Live!, an outdoor entertainment attraction that covers an entire city block, two stories, an outdoor plaza, and many bar and restaurant choices. Many events are hosted here at KC Live! such as Family Night and several different musical series, and almost all of them are free to the public! One recent trip to KC Live! found patrons enjoying an American Idol watch party in the outdoor plaza. KC Live! is also home to Lucky Strike Lanes, Raglan Road Irish Pub, Maker’s Mark Bourbon House and Lounge, and for country fans there is PBR Big Sky nightclub. When traveling to Kansas City, be sure to check out the current events hosted at KC Live! and the Power and Light District.
The Power and Light District also has The Midland AMC Movie Theatre, which features six screens, and The Mainstreet Theatre concert venue. The district’s largest venue is the Sprint Center, located at the edge of Power and Light. The Sprint Center, which can seat 18, 500, hosts large concerts such as Brittney Spears and large sporting events such as NCAA basketball. Connected to the Sprint Center is the College Basketball Experience, which houses the college basketball Hall of Fame and interactive entertainment for people of all ages.
The Power and Light District is a great place to explore and see the city. The streets are clean and well lit with beautiful lights. The sidewalks are filled with tourists and locals enjoying the music and food. Police patrol the area keeping it safe for tourists. After the concerts, places like Indie, a contemporary lounge, fill quickly with thirsty customers. The Power and Light District has special festival laws, which very few places in the United States have. Festival laws allow patrons to carry their drinks from place to place and have them on the streets within the district.
Retail shopping is popular in the Power and Light as well. Cosentino’s Market is an upscale grocery with many unique brands and fresh foods prepared daily. Other shops, such as Jos. A Bank, MeMa’s Bakery and the Sprint Studio, are available for visitors.
The Kansas City Power and Light District has given the downtown area a new, modern life. The large entertainment attraction gives Kansas City a fresh new look, no longer the sleepy Midwestern town full of cowboys! Parking is a breeze, with all venues within walking distance. Hotels are located around the district making it convenient for travelers. Come see why Kansas City is the “Destination to Watch” this year!
