Whether conscious about your group’s footprint or simply interested in an energy-efficient event, Kansas City has the resources and infrastructure needed to host a stellar green meeting, from transportation to host site and after-hours activities.
Facilities
Home to more than 800,000 square feet of space—and 388,800 square feet of contiguous column-free exhibit space—the Kansas City Convention Center also touts the state-of-the-art Kay Barnes Grand Ballroom, a certified LEED Silver facility.
With waterless plumbing, energy-efficient climate control and a sophisticated lighting system, the 46,484-square-foot Grand Ballroom is without a doubt one of the most-coveted green facilities in the region.
Transportation and Lodging
The newly-opened single terminal at Kansas City International Airport is the first terminal project in the Midwest (and the second in the country) to receive LEED Gold certification.
With wireless electric bus charging stations, an installation of 500+ solar panels, and many more design elements intended to reduce environmental impact, Kansas City’s sustainability efforts are on display from the moment you arrive.
The all-electric KC Streetcar has revolutionized the way groups meet in Kansas City, maximizing convenience and eliminating the need for costly shuttles.
Your attendees can travel the 2.2-mile route through the city’s Downtown neighborhoods, from Crown Center and Union Station through the Crossroads Arts District, Power & Light District and River Market, all for free and without vehicle emissions.
Other green transportation options include RideKC Bike, a bikeshare program with dozens of stations situated in every corner of the city, and electric scooters like Bird, which get people from A to B in no time at all.
Not to mention that staying in the heart of Downtown KC means attendees are within walking distance of the Convention Center, T-Mobile Center, marquee hotel properties and the Power & Light District, a high-energy nightlife and dining hub popular among groups of all kinds.
New and recently renovated hotels on or near the Streetcar line include:
After-Hours Entertainment
In addition to nightlife celebrations in the Power & Light District, other hangs can be found by foot or streetcar in the Crossroads Arts District, such as arcade bar Up-Down, Pre-Prohibition distillery Tom’s Town and jazz club Green Lady Lounge.
Several of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium’s incredible exhibits are LEED certified, including the Polar Bear Passage, Helzberg Penguin Plaza and the Tuxedo Grill, thanks to solar panels, enhanced insulation, water recycling systems and more. Perfect for families visiting a few days before or after a meeting.
Your group can explore the Spanish-inspired Country Club Plaza by taking a guided tour by Segway Bike and Stroll, an easy and convenient way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights, like The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
Strolling through Kansas City’s urban greenspaces is another popular activity that leaves little footprint. Serene spots include Loose Park (near Country Club Plaza), Swope Park (home to the zoo and Starlight Theatre) and Berkley Riverfront Park (just north of the River Market).
