Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Kansas City
Planning a family trip to Kansas City? Whether you’re visiting for the famous zoo, Science City, or LEGOLAND Discovery Center, choosing the right family-friendly hotel can make or break your vacation. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best hotels in Kansas City that cater specifically to families with children of all ages.
Kansas City is a fantastic destination for family vacations, offering a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation for all ages. When it comes to finding the perfect home base for your trip, choosing a family-friendly hotel can make all the difference. From spacious suites and kid-approved amenities to locations near major attractions, Kansas City has a variety of hotels that cater to families.
Great Wolf Lodge Kansas City
Ultimate Indoor Water Park Resort
For families seeking entertainment without leaving their hotel, Great Wolf Lodge stands as the premier choice. This resort combines comfortable accommodations with an extensive indoor water park, making it a perfect year-round destination.
Family-Friendly Features:
- 84-degree indoor water park
- Kid-themed suites with bunk beds
- MagiQuest interactive game throughout the hotel
- Multiple dining options including kid-friendly buffets
- Seasonal activities and events
- Character appearances and story time
Why Families Love It:
- All-weather entertainment
- Inclusive pricing options
- Secure environment
- Multiple room configurations for different family sizes
- Mini-refrigerators in all rooms
Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center
Central Location for Family Adventures
Connected to Crown Center via skywalk, this hotel provides easy access to many of KC’s family attractions while offering comfortable accommodations and amenities families need.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Indoor/outdoor pool
- Connected to Crown Center shops and restaurants
- Walking distance to LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE Aquarium
- Link@Sheraton space for teens
- Family packages available
- Spacious rooms with city views
Why Families Love It:
- Convenient location
- Climate-controlled access to attractions
- Multiple dining options nearby
- Safe, enclosed walking paths
- Comfortable bedding options
Embassy Suites by Hilton Kansas City Plaza
Spacious Suites Near Family Attractions
Located near Country Club Plaza, this all-suite hotel offers families the space they need along with valuable amenities that help parents save on dining expenses.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Free made-to-order breakfast
- Evening reception with snacks
- Separate living rooms in all suites
- Indoor pool
- Mini-kitchen facilities
- Close to Kansas City Zoo
Why Families Love It:
- Complimentary meals and snacks
- Extra space for families
- Ability to prepare simple meals
- Privacy for parents and kids
- Value-added amenities
Drury Inn & Suites Kansas City Stadium
Budget-Friendly Family Option
Perfect for families watching their budget without sacrificing comfort, the Drury Inn offers numerous complimentary amenities that help stretch vacation dollars.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Free hot breakfast
- 5:30 Kickback® with food and drinks
- Indoor/outdoor pool
- Free popcorn and soda in lobby
- Pet-friendly rooms available
- Close to sports venues
Why Families Love It:
- Excellent value
- Multiple free meals
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Friendly staff
- Easy parking
Holiday Inn Country Club Plaza
Reliable Family Comfort
This recently renovated hotel offers reliable comfort for families in a prime location, with amenities that make traveling with kids easier.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Kids eat free program
- Outdoor pool (seasonal)
- Family-sized rooms available
- Walking distance to Plaza attractions
- Refrigerators in rooms
- On-site restaurant
Why Families Love It:
- Cost-saving dining options
- Safe neighborhood
- Easy access to shopping
- Comfortable beds
- Helpful staff
Residence Inn by Marriott Kansas City at Country Club Plaza
Extended Stay Perfect for Families
For families planning longer stays or needing more space, this property offers apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens and separate living areas.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Full kitchens in every suite
- Free hot breakfast
- Grocery shopping service
- Sport court
- Indoor pool
- Pet-friendly
Why Families Love It:
- Home-like atmosphere
- Money-saving kitchen facilities
- Separate bedrooms
- Laundry facilities
- Social events
Tips for Choosing a Family Hotel in Kansas City
- Location Considerations
- Proximity to planned activities
- Safety of the neighborhood
- Nearby dining options
- Public transportation access
- Parking facilities
- Must-Have Amenities
- Swimming pool
- Refrigerator in room
- Free breakfast
- Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- Budget-Saving Tips
- Look for hotels with included meals
- Consider suite options with kitchens
- Check for family packages
- Join hotel loyalty programs
- Book during off-peak seasons
Making the Most of Your Family Stay
- Seasonal Considerations
- Summer: Look for hotels with outdoor pools
- Winter: Consider indoor water parks or enclosed walkways
- Spring/Fall: Focus on proximity to attractions
- Room Configuration Tips
- Request rooms away from elevators for quieter stays
- Ask about connecting rooms for larger families
- Consider suite options for extended stays
- Money-Saving Strategies
- Book directly with hotels for best rates
- Look for packages including attraction tickets
- Take advantage of complimentary meals
- Use AAA or other membership discounts
Final Thoughts
Kansas City offers a wide range of family-friendly hotel options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience like Great Wolf Lodge or a comfortable base for exploring the city like the Sheraton Crown Center, you’ll find accommodations that make traveling with children easier and more enjoyable.
Remember to consider your family’s specific needs when choosing a hotel, including the ages of your children, your planned activities, and your budget. Many hotels offer special packages during school holidays and summer months, so be sure to ask about current promotions when booking.
FAQs
Which Kansas City hotel is best for families with young children?
Great Wolf Lodge is ideal for families with young children due to its extensive water park and themed activities. The Sheraton Crown Center is also excellent due to its proximity to LEGOLAND and other child-friendly attractions.
What hotels offer the best value for families?
Drury Inn & Suites and Embassy Suites offer excellent value through their complimentary meals and additional amenities that help families save on food costs.
Are there hotels near the Kansas City Zoo that are good for families?
Embassy Suites Plaza and Holiday Inn Country Club Plaza both offer good access to the zoo while providing family-friendly amenities.
Which hotels have the best pools for kids?
Great Wolf Lodge is unmatched for water activities. For traditional pools, the Sheraton Crown Center and Embassy Suites both offer excellent swimming facilities.
What hotels offer rooms with separate sleeping areas for kids?
Residence Inn, Embassy Suites, and Great Wolf Lodge all offer suites with separate sleeping areas, perfect for families needing extra space.
Do any family-friendly hotels in Kansas City offer kitchen facilities?
Yes, Residence Inn offers full kitchens in every suite, while Embassy Suites provides mini-kitchen facilities. These are perfect for families looking to save money on dining out.
