Holiday Inn Express Kansas City Westport-Country Club Plaza

One of only a couple of lodging options in Kansas City's gay-popular and trendy Westport neighborhood, the mid-priced Holiday Inn Express Kansas City Westport-Country Club Plaza (801 Westport Rd., 816-931-1000) is a reliable option, typical of others in this growing chain. If you can pardon the building's rather unattractive, boxy exterior, the property is bright and smartly decorated within. Rooms have coffeemakers, Wi-Fi, and two phones (and some have microwaves and mini-refrigerators), and there's a full gym and business services. Westport's many stylish boutiques and fun restaurants and bars are within walking distance, and Country Club Plaza is a short drive or cab ride south.