April has nearly come to a close and the inevitable discussion is probably getting ready to happen–if not between you and your spouse, then between you and your child(ren)! “Where are we going on vacation this summer? And when?” Given the rising costs of EVERYTHING– specifically food, shelter, clothing, gasoline and fun–we figured that our readers would benefit from a small series of articles containing information and ideas on quick weekend getaways from the Kansas City area.
I will preface this series by saying that loads of fun can be had for not a lot of money. Article #1 will highlight just that–the “weekend getaway” will be in town! One doesn’t have to look far to realize that there is so much to see and do with your family right here in KC. Just check out all of the links to various places on this site alone! Try thinking outside the box a bit, outside your normal comfort zone. Never taken your family to The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art? You might be amazed at how much your “non-artistic” children love it! (Have you seen the stunning new Bloch Building addition?!?) Incorporate a walk along Brush Creek and check out the fountains throughout the Country Club Plaza.
Two recent in-town “vacations” we had were at the Great Wolf Lodge (see our previous post dated 4/17/08), and the Sheraton Overland Park. Our night at the Sheraton was filled with swimming, ordering room service, riding up and down the elevators, opening and closing the door to our room with the electronic keycard and watching a movie! These things which we may consider mundane are ABSOLUTELY THRILLING for a kid! Many local hotels and motels even offer weekend-getaway packages for in-town guests.
Since we’re on the topic of fun nights at the Sheraton, (I promise, this isn’t a paid plug!) I thought I should mention the new water park (opening in May) located at the Sheraton Kansas City Sports Complex. If you’ve already done the Great Wolf Lodge, or want to hop on I-70 and head east, this would be a great option! You’ll want to check out CoCo Key Resort’s website. It looks fabulous! The hotel is even advertising Opening Weekend rates from $139/room.
We’ve already mentioned the upcoming Jiggle Jam, coming to Crown Center Square May 24-25. You could probably spend two days taking it all in…and the nearby Hyatt Regency and Westin Crown Center hotels are featuring special Jiggle Jam rates. This happens to be Memorial Weekend…what a great excuse to get away!
Everyone needs a change in scenery and a break from the same-old every once in a while, even children. Plan an inexpensive night or two away, in town, and you might include trying out a new restaurant, visiting a museum or shopping off your beaten path. You’ll be amazed, not to mention refreshed! And your wallet will thank you.
Check back soon…in article #2 in the Weekend Getaway Series we’ll actually hit the road! We’re going to Omaha!!
