Country Club Plaza, Kansas City's premier upscale shopping and dining district, lies about 30 km from MCI Airport. The 30-40 minute drive reaches one of America's first planned shopping districts, inspired by Seville, Spain.

About Country Club Plaza

Country Club Plaza (commonly called 'the Plaza') is one of the first shopping districts in the world designed to accommodate automobile traffic, opened in 1923 by developer J.C. Nichols. The district's Spanish-inspired architecture features terra-cotta roofs, ornate tile work, wrought-iron balconies, and decorative fountains that give it a European ambiance unique in the American Midwest.

The Plaza spans 15 blocks and houses over 100 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ranging from national brands (Tiffany & Co., Nordstrom, Anthropologie) to beloved local establishments. The dining scene includes the Capital Grille, JJ's Restaurant (legendary for its jazz), and an array of cafés with outdoor patios that come alive in the warmer months.

The Plaza is adjacent to several of Kansas City's finest attractions: the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (with its iconic Shuttlecocks sculpture on the lawn), Loose Park (a formal rose garden and Civil War battle site), and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. The annual Plaza Lights, a Thanksgiving-to-January tradition since 1925, transforms the district with over 80 miles of Christmas lights outlining every building, tower, and archway.

Nearby Landmarks

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Loose Park Kemper Museum Plaza Fountains

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $50-65
Time 30-40 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $35-50
Time 30-40 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. From MCI Airport, take a taxi or ride-share to Country Club Plaza ($40-55)
2. The drive takes 30-40 minutes via I-29 to I-35 to Southwest Trafficway
3. Request the Plaza's main entrance at 47th and Main or your specific hotel
4. From downtown KC: the KC Streetcar to Union Station, then bus or ride-share south
5. RideKC bus routes 51 and 47 serve the Plaza from downtown (limited frequency)
6. Free Plaza parking is available in garages; validate at participating shops for extended time

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $50-65 30-40 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $35-50 30-40 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The KC Streetcar currently does not reach the Plaza (an extension is planned). Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available. The Plaza's restaurants and bars are active until 11:00 PM-midnight. The area is well-lit and safe for walking in the evening. Ride-shares from the Plaza to the airport cost $35-55. Free parking is available in the Plaza garages after 6:00 PM on some levels.

Luggage Tips

The Plaza's parking garages offer easy drive-in, drive-out access, making luggage storage in a rental car practical. Most Plaza-area hotels (including the Intercontinental and Marriott) have drive-up access and bellman service. There is no public luggage storage in the Plaza itself. If visiting before hotel check-in, hotels will typically hold bags. The district is walkable but covers 15 blocks — wear comfortable shoes.

Accessibility

Country Club Plaza is wheelchair accessible with level sidewalks, curb cuts, and accessible entrances to all shops and restaurants. Parking garages have designated accessible spots. The Nelson-Atkins Museum is fully accessible with wheelchair lending. Loose Park has paved paths. The Plaza's Spanish-style architecture does not present accessibility barriers on the ground level. All Plaza hotels have ADA-compliant rooms.