Hotel Phillips

The Hotel Phillips, in the heart of downtown Kansas City and a couple blocks from the Power and Light District, is the sort of hotel you want to stay in when you visit a big city. The lobby is a glorious example of Art Deco style: a symphony of gold, wood and fabulous decorative detail. The staff strikes a pleasant balance between suave and courteous. And if you stay on the 20-story hotel's upper floors, you'll enjoy nice views of downtown, including the new Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. The atmosphere feels like a splurge, but the actual price isn't exorbitant enough to make you feel guilty, with rooms starting at $129 during peak summer weekends. The bedding is crisp, white and modern, and furniture features classy Art Deco accents. In terms of amenities, the hotel has a fitness center, free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant with 24-hour room service. Most visitors valet park ($20), another treat during a big-city stay.