Our eighth day in Kansas City was fairly active. After Beth’s run and another doctor visit for Bob (leg pain issues), we hit five different sites.
First up was Country Club Plaza. Developed in the 1920’s, it was marketed as the first shopping center for shoppers traveling by car. The buildings have a Spanish influence. It seems like it would be a fun area, but there was so much redevelopment it was hectic trying to drive, walk, and get into stores. Though, we did find a great KC Market, with locally-made products to buy a few items for future home owners.
Second up was Crown Center developed by Don Hall of Hallmark Greeting Cards (see #5). The Center was planned and developed starting in the 1960’s. It has a mall with your standard stores and also has nearby hotels and nearby attractions such as Legoland, Sea Life , and the Hallmark Visitor’s Center, as well as a fountain.
Third was the World War I museum. It is an impressive, imposing museum. We didn’t pay to go in ($18 apiece), as our homeowners found it overwhelming and we weren’t in a war mood. We did get a good view of the city, however, from the upper level of the monument.
Fourth was Union Station, 108 years old. We usually like hitting these stations as many cities have updated them. This one had a couple nice restaurants in it. Amtrak can still be boarded here. Also, right outside is a free light rail that will whisk you into downtown proper.
Number five was the Hallmark Card Visitor Center. We thought it would be fun to tour, since we’re familiar with the cards, and they started in Kansas City. Who knew? Plus, “We care enough to send the very best.”
It was an informative visit. They have a movie which provides a good overview of the start and growth of the company. Joyce Clyde (J.C.) Hall started the company from his room in the local YMCA. He started out by selling other people’s postcards before moving into creating their own cards. The Hall Brothers (he was joined by his older brothers) also created gift wrap. The company is still run by the family and now includes the Crayola Crayons company as well as two Hallmark channels on tv. The trickiest part of the tour was finding the Visitor’s Center. We heard another couple complaining about that on our way out.
We’re now having an early 59th birthday celebration for Bob since we won’t be together on his birthday. We’ll likely have a second celebration when we get back together in Denver after his birthday.
Peckish Travels 