Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Phillips mixes modern sophistication with a glittering Art Deco vibe. The old-Hollywood look of the landmarked building's 1931 facade carries over to the marble-floored lobby. An 11-foot sculpture of Aurora, the goddess of dawn, presides over the entrance, while a period chandelier hangs from the ceiling and a grand, double-sided staircase with bronze and nickel metalwork leads to the second floor. Original features have been retained throughout the hotel, such as the walnut wood paneling that lines many common areas throughout, and the decorative bas reliefs throughout. The hotel's commitment to local art and artists is immediately visible from the lobby, with eye-catching contemporary art on the mezzanine level. There is plenty of 1930s-inspired art throughout as well, and the bar area and lounge are vibrant and popular during daily happy hours and live music sessions. Guests here run the gamut from families and couples to business travelers and weddings guests.

The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Kansas City’s business, entertainment, and arts districts and within walking distance of many attractions, restaurants, and shops. There are several other hotels in the surrounding area, plus Kansas City’s Power & Light District -- an area rife with dining options, bars, shops, and entertainment venues --  is a block away. KC Live!, an entertainment plaza with two levels of high-energy bars and nightclubs, is a five-minute walk away, as is the Sprint Center, a large indoor venue that hosts concerts and sporting events. The Kansas City Convention Center is a four-minute walk from the hotel, while Kauffman Stadium, where the Royals play, will take 15 minutes to reach by car or cab. Kansas City International Airport is under 30 minutes away by car.

The vintage-contemporary blend continues into the hotel's guest rooms with neutral walls, carved crown molding, and stylish upholstered headboards on the white-linened beds. A botanical wall in gilded frames adds a welcome bit of glitter to some rooms. Brown-and-white patterned carpets line the floors, and some rooms feature generous seating areas with love seats that have 1920s lines. Wooden blinds cover the windows, but they lack blackout curtains meaning that rooms may be bright at night, though some rooms on higher floors have nice city views. Junior Suites with separate sleeping and living areas are available, including the vibrantly styled Artist-in-Residence Room that was designed by the hotel's fourth artist-in-residence, Madeline Gallucci. Bathrooms have granite vanities and tan tile floors plus shower/tub combos and WELL Spa toiletries, but they aren't quite as stylish as the guest rooms. All rooms come with air-conditioning, 37-inch flat-screen TVs, work desks, free Wi-Fi, and coffee/tea facilities. Some guests have complained of uncomfortable beds, however, as well as cleanliness issues.

The hotel embraces and supports local up-and-coming artists and musicians by displaying their works throughout the hotel and hosting live music several nights per week. The hotel also hosts an artist-in-residence in an on-site studio that guests can visit. The hotel's restaurant, 12 Baltimore, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus 24-hour room service, and also has bar with a popular daily happy hour and plenty of locally brewed beers. There's a free guest reception every weekday evening with wine and cheese, but breakfast is not included with room rates. The hotel's 24-hour fitness center has a handful of modern equipment, though there's no pool or spa on site (massages are available by appointment). A 24-hour business center and 5,763 square-feet of conference space and meeting rooms are both available and the hotel hosts many weddings throughout the year. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property and valet parking is available, but is pricey. Pets are allowed and in-room treats and features are offered for them, but pet stays are subject to a non-refundable deposit.