City: Kansas City, MO

Category: Accommodations

Telephone: (816) 221-9490

Address: 1329 Baltimore

Description: If you like to say “They don’t build ’em like they used to,” you’ll enjoy all the lush trappings from the 1920s when the President first arrived on the scene: gorgeous marble and intricate plasterwork decorate every inch of public space. Today the 213-guest-room palace is the official hotel to the exciting 24/7 area known as the Power & Light District. If you’re in the market for an impressive corporate shindig or special event, the President’s grand ballroom will wow your guests with an elegant space and unmatched views of downtown. All in all, we’d say the $45 million for the makeover was well spent. The President also brought back its famous Drum Room from the 1940s. Luminaries such as Frank Sinatra, Tommy Dorsey, and Duke Ellington all performed here. Today guests can sit in the Rat Pack booth and enjoy live entertainment on Fri and Sat nights along with the Drum Room’s tasty nine-ounce martinis. Alas, the Marx Brothers won’t be on the stage, but some of Kansas City’s best jazz talent will be. The restaurant side is also getting noticed with its laid-back atmosphere and menu choices that include a 10-spice roasted duck and all your favorite steaks and chops. The happy hour (and reverse happy hour that’s perfect for a late-night bite) will make you just that: happy.