Best hotels in the KC Area? (near I-70 if possible) (Kansas City: casinos, live)

[livedaround]

Greetings all, I'm going on a road trip in December from Columbus OH to Denver and would like to break for the night in the Kansas City area (can be in a nearby town but preferably near I-70 as that's my route - or along an alternative route that won't detour me much - ie no more than an hour east/west of KC).

I love staycations so I'm looking for comfort, amenities and character over value. Doesn't have to be super upscale, but a quality experience is preferred. Indoor pool/hot tub are very important to me too, as I like to soak my weary muscles after a long drive. Also up my alley is quality dining and a bar in or near the hotel (walking distance). I prefer the amenities of 3/4 star hotels but am somewhat flexible there if it's a great place to stay. I've stayed in a few 2 star hotels that were nicer than many 3 star hotels, so I don't always judge by star class. Basically, I'm looking for a bit more than a bed to sleep in. I know there are casinos in the area too and although I don't gamble that could be interesting too.

Just wondering what the locals think are the most interesting/comfortable hotels in the area, and worth the money if higher-end. Where do you put your family up while in town or staycation?

Cheers

[tht1guy]

use https://www.airbnb.com/ its cheaper and better

[thriftylefty]

Kansas City Hotels | AC Hotel Kansas City Westport
I think this one used to be called the Quarterage, its all new since I stayed there.

[kcmo]

I know KC's hotels well. I have stayed in most of them because we no longer live there and don't always want to stay with relatives when in town or in town for business. I have also stayed at most of the hotels near KCI for early morning flights etc.

I rarely use pools and hot tubs, so I'm not sure which of these hotels has them. I just know these are the better places to stay.

The plaza is the best place in KC to stay. It's about 4-5 miles south of I-70/Downtown KCMO. If you can stay in the plaza area, I would make that my first choice.

Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza
The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection
InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza
AC Hotel Westport
816 Hotel

Downtown is also a nice place to stay if the plaza doesn't work out:

Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, Autograph Collection
Hotel Phillips
Hilton President Kansas City
Westin Crown Center

Suburbs: Most suburban hotels are average, nothing special. The only one I would recommend is Stoney Creek in Independence. Brand new hotel, outdoors themed. They are top notch as far as customer service and the rooms are amenities are very nice. It's also right on I-70 in the eastern suburbs.