Luxury properties--naturally--come with a price tag. At this hotel in Kansas City, that’s definitely not the case. With a grand chandelier in its lobby and large-scale art, plus rooms featuring gorgeous bathrooms and velvet chaise lounges, The Fontaine is the ultimate place to stay for a chic -- and affordable -- Midwest experience.
The Basics
- Budget Level: Upscale ($150-$300/night)
- Lodging Type: Large Hotel (100+ rooms)
What You Need to Know
The Look
The entrance to this property is as impressive as it is Intagram-friendly. Tile mosaics are set into the marble floors, large-scale Renaissance-style artwork adorns the walls, and a massive, hand-blown Venetian glass chandeliers float overhead. Beds have large tapestry headboards, and the Carrera marble bathrooms have oversize showers with rainfall fixtures. Perched on the hotel's top floor, the restaurant 901 West features modern Mediterranean cuisine and offers great views of the city.
The Vibe
Couples looking for a romantic weekend on the Plaza, and fans of modern design will appreciate the hotel, which is in the middle of the shopping and dining the area is known for. Arguably, The Fontaine is one of the chicest hotels in the city. Roger Waters --of Pink Floyd fame -- was staying on the property during our visit.
Who Will Love It
This is a great place to stay if you prefer an independent hotel to a chain, and if you enjoy contemporary design.
Who Might Not
We're struggling to think of anyone who wouldn't appreciate this property. We spied everyone from (not-too-rowdy) bachelorette parties, to couples, to families with young children at the hotel.
Best Amenity
The rooftop pool isn't enormous, but it's the hub of the action at The Fontaine. Located just off the bar, you'll find couples sipping cocktails on loungers (or in the water) and groups gathered around the fire pit.
Money Matters
What’s Included
A European-style breakfast is offered each morning in the Solarium Lounge, complete with meats, cheeses, hot items, and made-to-order cappuccino or lattes. It's something you don't often find in the U.S., and it's free, to boot. You’ll also get wifi. Rooms feature iPhone and iPad docking stations and expansive views of the Plaza and grounds.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About
Valet parking is $18 per night.
How to Get a Deal
The hotel offers a handful of special offers when booking directly from the website, including a AAA and AARP member rate, as well as romance and dining packages. The average rate for this hotel comes out to about $190 per night.
Getting There
In the Neighborhood
The Fontaine is located in the city's Country Club Plaza, which is styled after the plazas of Seville, Spain. Here, more than than 150 shops and restaurants are just outside the door. Westport neighborhood (with additional shopping, bars, music venues, and restaurants) is within walking distance, too.
Nearest Airport and Public Transport
Located about 25 miles from the Kansas City International airport, you'll need to rent a car or take a taxi or ride-hailing service from the airport. A taxi (about $35 each way) or an Uber (about $30) gets you to the hotel in about 30 minutes.
The Bottom Line
For an upscale stay in Kansas City -- with Midwest pricing -- this is a great choice.