There’s something magical about the city during wintertime. Maybe it’s the cheery holiday decorations or the way streetlamps and string lights softly illuminate falling snowflakes. So don’t let the dropping temperatures keep you from enjoying a weekend getaway. Gift yourself tickets to a play or performance and fill out the rest of your trip with artful attractions – you’ll stay cozy and warm while also basking in the beauty of the season.
Kansas City
The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a stunning architectural complex that houses two separate venues: The Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall. The resident Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera of Kansas City and Kansas City Symphony frequently perform there. The schedule is also peppered with special appearances by top national and international entertainers, artists and troupes, including Broadway production companies.
Within two miles of the Kauffman Center is Union Station Kansas City and Crown Center. Union Station is chock-full of activities that will appeal to the whole family: Science City, Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, Model Railroad Experience, City Stage and touring exhibitions. Crown Center is an entertainment complex that houses SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, theaters, shops and restaurants. During the winter, a public ice skating rink offers outdoor fun at the base of the massive Mayor’s Christmas Tree.
What’s a trip to Kansas City without barbecue? Jack Stack Freight House serves up award-winning dishes, including Kansas City’s specialty – burnt ends. The restaurant has impressive 25-foot ceilings, a fireplace lounge, indoor and outdoor seating, and a full-service bar.
At the end of the day, head to Hotel Phillips, an Art Deco retreat in the Power & Light District. The 1930s hotel, once the tallest building in Kansas City, stays true to its roots with a hidden speakeasy in the basement. If you want to venture out for a taste of local nightlife, you’re just a few blocks away from the fun.
St. Louis
A 1920s-era movie palace designed by William Fox has been a longtime favorite entertainment venue in St. Louis. The Fabulous Fox Theatre is ornately decorated in the “Siamese Byzantine” style, which borrows from Moorish, Egyptian, Babylonian and Indian themes. The building has been carefully renovated and features a lineup of world-class performances, including the U.S. Bank Broadway Series.
You might be in town for a show, but take a moment to appreciate the snowy scenery at Forest Park – one of the largest urban parks in the United States. If it’s a little too chilly to explore the winter wonderland, head to the Saint Louis Art Museum, located in the park, to peruse a collection of art and artifacts that spans from thousands of years ago to modern day. If your taste in art leans toward compelling photos, you’re in luck. The International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates famous photographers, preserves historic photos and cameras, and displays rotating exhibits that showcase beautiful and thought-provoking images.
Dine in style at Brasserie by Niche, a bistro-style spot that specializes in French cuisine. From mussels in white wine sauce to classic profiteroles, Brasserie will give you a taste of Paris without requiring a passport. At the Brass Bar, you’ll find an impressive selection of wines that will pair perfectly with your meal. The Chase Park Plaza is known as the place to stay if you’re wanting to be close to the action and attractions while enjoying an upscale hotel experience. In addition to the luxurious rooms, the heated pool and patio and five-screen historic movie theater will take your stay to the next level.