Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center

This huge Sheraton is about as on-brand as it gets, with predictable, modern, and pleasant interiors and a bustling vibe. That atmosphere comes in part from this hotel's status as a major convention destination, and also because it's attached to the massive Crown Center entertainment and shopping complex. Its extensive meeting spaces means there are usually groups in attendance, and it can be busy with business travelers and convention goers. The lobby is huge and open, with a skylight above and many windows all around letting in abundant natural light. Multiple seating groups allow for small gatherings. Stairs lead up to the mezzanine, where even more seating is available. A huge modern chandelier hangs overhead, and a fountain provides a soothing sound of water flowing. Three reception pods keep guests moving in and out. This isn't the spot for those seeking a hotel with lots of intimate character and charm, but for families, couples, and corporate guests, it fits the bill for a pleasant place to rest in the middle of Kansas City.

Located in Midtown, this hotel is connected by skywalk to the multilevel Crown Center complex and Hallmark's world headquarters. It's surrounded by large corporate offices and parking garages, and the immediate area can be busy with traffic. In addition to shopping and dining, attractions within the Crown Center include Sea Life Kansas City, Legoland Discovery Center, Hallmark Visitors Center, and the Crown Center Ice Terrace. Historic Union Station can be reached in about 10 minutes on foot, and the Power & Light Entertainment District is a 20-minute walk or a five-minute taxi ride from the hotel. It's also about a five-minute drive to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and the Kansas City Convention Center. Kauffman Stadium, where the Royals play, is about 15 minutes away by car. Expect about a 25-minute drive to Kansas City International Airport. 

There's nothing particularly exciting about the style in this Sheraton's guest rooms, but they are clean and well-kept. The look is modern and plain, featuring cherry wood furniture, soft beige color schemes with blue striped carpeting, wood-framed leather headboards, granite-topped desks and tables, and abstract artwork. Beds are Sheraton's Sweet Sleeper mattresses -- firm, but yielding -- with all-white bedding. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and free bottled water. Wi-Fi is only free for SPG members. Bathrooms are also modern and come with tiled shower/tub combos, granite countertops, hairdryers, and toiletries. Pure Rooms are designed for allergy sufferers. Executive suites are larger and offer a separate living area. Some rooms have nice views of the city. 

Dining in the hotel takes at Spectators Gastro-Pub, a casual pub-like place serving all meals. Multiple TVs on the walls keep guests up-to-date on the latest news, sports, and weather. Link Cafe sells coffee, snacks, and other beverages. Starwood Preferred Guest members get access to the Club Lounge on the 42nd floor, which has spectacular panoramic views of Kansas City. This also includes free breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres, coffee, and free Wi-Fi. Many additional dining options are available in the Crown Center.The hotel's rooftop pool isn't exactly a place of beauty -- the space is rather gray and small -- but it's functional and offers nice views of the city. It's suitable for swimming laps, and lounge chairs are available, although there are no umbrellas. There's also an enclosed indoor area for inclement weather. The modern fitness center offers cardio and weight training equipment as well as free weights and exercise balls. A free shuttle service takes guests to the Power & Light Entertainment District on most days -- check with the hotel for the schedule. The hotel's meeting space is among the largest in the city and includes a ballroom that can accommodate up to 2,000 people, plus various sized meeting rooms, an exhibit hall, and pre-function space. Link@Sheraton offers computers and printers for guests to use, and an on-site gift shop sells travel essentials, toys, souvenirs, snacks, and beverages. Those who aren't SPG members must pay for Wi-Fi, and the hotel is pet friendly. Dogs weighing less than 40 pounds can stay for free. A fee is charged for larger dogs.