The Country Club Plaza in Kansas City

Stucco buildings, courtyards and a Spanish feel all are part of the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City. A popular tourist destination, as well as a Kansas City favorite, the "Plaza" has transformed itself into the premier shopping and entertainment area for the city.

When the 20^th century turned, J.C. Nichols, a young entrepreneur, dived into real estate development and purchased a swampy piece of land with Brush Creek running through it, south of the downtown area. His vision was large and ridiculed by many. He intended to build a central shopping area for residents. However, there were no residents and there were no neighborhoods. J.C Nichols took the job on, and developed stores, parking lots, and offices. He then built neighborhoods surrounding the shopping area. The Country Club Plaza also had filling stations, and large parking lots, making it the first shopping area in the US to cater to automobile drivers.

The Plaza was a big success. It's European feel, open walkways and wide streets, fountains and sculptures all make for breathtaking scenery. It soon became known as the place to go for luxury items and the latest in fashions. Over the years, many changes took place, including the near disastrous flood of 1977, when Brush Creek, rushed its banks and destroyed most of the Country Club Plaza within minutes. Despite setbacks, transition in ownership, and the economy, the Country Club Plaza continues to thrive as a tourist and shopping destination.

The Country Club Plaza hosts many events throughout the year, including the very popular Plaza Art Fair that draws an average crowd of 300,000. Over 250 artists present their work for sale in this 75 year old tradition. The Plaza Lights display during the holiday is the biggest event the Plaza holds. Each year over 500,000 people come on Thanksgiving night to watch the Plaza come alive with over 80 miles of Christmas lights! The display stays lit until New Years. The lights are a beautiful addition to this already stunning development and draw visitors all season long.

Currently the Plaza has some of the best restaurants in Kansas City, including Jack Stacks Barbecue, one of the best Kansas City barbecue places in town. Stores include the exclusive Halls department store, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Standard Style and the Betsey Johnson boutique. MAX cosmetics and Origins have shops here as well.

On any given weekend, shoppers, tourists, and people watchers fill the streets of the Plaza. Live music is performed on several corners throughout the Country Club Plaza, playing live jazz for the crowds. Many restaurants have outdoor patios for alfresco dining. For dessert try the Cheesecake Factory or some freshly made gelato. Even you and your pet can stop into Three Dog Bakery and get a home made treat! The Country Club Plaza is a great place to visit while in Kansas City.