Bustling if somewhat sprawling Kansas City is one of the country's more underrated destinations on a number of fronts: culture, dining, shopping, architecture, and - unquestionably - gay travel. It's laid-back and unassuming vibe, a place where locals respect and accept one another's differences. And it's where GLBT folks who've grown up in the more conservative surrounding region often gravitate. Take a look at some of the city's many cool and gay-friendly eateries, shops, bars, and hotels.
 Shuttlecock sculpture, by Claes Oldenburg, at Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art |  Sidekicks Saloon, a gay country-western dance bar in Midtown |  Raphael Hotel Kansas City, overlooking historic Country Club Plaza |  Downtown Kansas City skyline at night |
 Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, the city's stunning new cultural jewel |  Fox Bar, Overland Park, Kansas (a nearby KC suburb) |  Gates B-B-Q on Main Street, Union Hill |  The Drop, in Union Hill, known for cocktails and great food |
 Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, just east of Country Club Plaza |  Holiday Inn Express Kansas City Westport-Country Club Plaza |  Lidia's Italy, in the Crossroads Arts District - superb Italian dining |  Buddies, a friendly gay bar on Main Street, next to Sidekicks Saloon |
