There are few places where the sights and sounds of the holiday season are more captivating than in Kansas City. From dazzling light displays to a rich tradition for holiday entertainment, it’s no wonder that KC has earned a reputation for its seasonal charm. Discover a perfect holiday getaway with all the trimmings—affordable shopping, unique entertainment, one-of-a-kind winter attractions … and plenty of memories to go around.

Plaza Season of Lights

The Country Club Plaza spends seven weeks each winter dressed up in jewel-colored lights—a tradition for almost eight decades. More than 80 miles of holiday lights outline every shop, dome and tower of the Spanish-inspired shopping and entertainment district.

Lavishly decorated store windows, horse-drawn carriages and Victorian carolers add to the already-perfect holiday scene (Thanksgiving-Jan. 10).

Affordable Shopping

Find everything on their wish list and more at one of the metro’s many shopping areas. In addition to the Plaza, shop in style at Zona Rosa beneath beautiful lighted crowns or among the oversized ornaments at The Legends at Village West.

These lifestyle centers feature big names to appease even the most seasoned of shoppers. For fun and funky gifts, browse the trendy boutiques in the Crossroads Arts District, charming shops in Brookside or the local favorites at Briarcliff Village.

Family Fun at Crown Center

One could easily spend an entire day (and a whole roll of film) at Hallmark’s Crown Center. The creative complex pulls out all the stops each holiday season.

Take a break from shopping at Crayola Christmas Land, a wintry world of larger-than-life Crayola products for kids to climb and play on. Venture outside for a spin on the skating rink or a family photo beside the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, one of the nation’s tallest.

Eat, Drink …

Warm and inviting, Kansas City’s restaurants are the perfect place to celebrate the season with friends and family. Bring together your loved ones at the cozy Room 39. The eatery’s farm-to-table menu is a hit with locals and critics alike (just ask Food & Wine).

Another top pick for special occasions is Carmen’s in Brookside, where sumptuous yet inexpensive Italian dishes are the mainstay. For brunch, try the lively and iconic Bristol Seafood Grill. Its Sunday spread is sure to bring the family together, with selections like fire-roasted shrimp enchiladas and tasty jambalaya.

And Be Merry

Follow up dinner with a trip to one of the city’s four riverfront casinos or numerous jazz clubs. National acts frequent The Blue Room, which was chosen by visitors as the best jazz club in KC for three years running.

For nightlife, venture to the Kansas City Power & Light District. Lined with nightclubs and restaurants, this eight-block entertainment hub is a perfect place to catch live music or simply enjoy a holiday toast.

Around the Metro

From the quaint shops in Parkville to the downtown traditions of Lawrence, the entire metro area gets in full holiday swing. Take the short drive to Independence and celebrate the Spirit of Christmas Past.

Tour the city’s historic homes or stop by the shops in Independence Square. Finally, don’t miss Leavenworth’s popular night parade. Families flock from miles around to see the glowing caravan of lighted floats.