I need some help from you Kansas City folk out there. I just moved back to the area--we're loving it, by the way--and I need a suggestion of an "off the beaten path" activity for our anniversary in a couple of weeks. We don't want to spend too much money on the activity, but will splurge for dinner. Any suggestions? We've already done Nelson Atkins, Union Station, the Plaza, and a few of the theaters in town. I'm just wondering if there is some hidden attraction out there. We are up for anything--romantic, adventurous, artsy, unusual. Help! :0

a couple of suggestions - i have been away for awhile but have you checked out the elms hotel, upgraded recently and has a great spa - check the web site. Another idea would be Lawrence, Kansas for the day - i always find that midwest living website has great ideas for short day trips and lodging suggestions in midwest states. go to their website travel section. I think that is where i found the great b&B we stayed at in Lawrence.

Lawrence has a nice downtown. On a much smaller scale, so does Weston.

For an anniversary, how about going up to the Elms in Excelsior Springs?

http://www.elmsresort.com/

Keith

I'd be pretty careful about scheduling the Elms without some careful research. Comments like "positively scary" and "awful" in prior reviews would make me a little bit nervous.

Check out a day trip to Weston. I live in downtown Kansas City and Weston is about a 40 minute minute drive from my loft.

In Weston, check out their antique stores, wineries (YES...wineries), good restaurants and farms that grow/sell apples, pumpkins, cider, cured bacon, etc. Plus, it's a pretty drive.

Here's a couple of suggestions in no particular order:

1. There's a famous B&B in Lawrence (name escapes me and I've not stayed there) that has their hot tub in the old silo. My boss and his wife rave about the place. I truly do not like B&B's so I've not checked into it.

2. Herman, MO has a vinyard and I believe they have a wine tasting festival about this time of year. It's been several years since we've gone but it's truly a fun outing. I don't have any info but I'm sure you can find something by looking on-line or calling their city hall.
3. Next time your near Union Station, go to the Liberty Memorial Museum and be sure to take the elevator to the top of the Memorial (assuming you've not already done so).