Hotel for Big 12 WBB Tournament?

Question

Looking for recommendations for the Women’s Big 12 tournament in March. Going to stay 4, maybe 5 nights and would like a suite style room with a small kitchenette. Debating between staying close to the arena or somewhere else downtown but also concerned about parking and availability. Any suggestions welcome. Thanks in advance!

Answer

For the Women's Big 12 Tournament in March, you'll want a hotel that’s convenient to the arena, but also offers comfortable accommodations for your extended stay. Here are some recommendations for suites with kitchenettes, as well as some options for good parking availability in Kansas City:

Hotels Close to the Arena: If you prefer staying near the arena (T-Mobile Center) for convenience, here are a couple of great options:

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kansas City Downtown This hotel is very close to the T-Mobile Center, making it an excellent choice for easy access to the tournament. They offer spacious suites, many with kitchenette options, and the location provides easy access to downtown restaurants and shops. Parking is available, but it may be limited, so consider checking availability in advance.
Court Yard by Marriott Kansas City Downtown/Union Hill Located just a few minutes away from the T-Mobile Center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with suite options and a small kitchenette. Parking is available, and it’s a good option if you want to be near the action but not too close to the crowds of the arena.

Hotels in Downtown with Suite Options: If you’re willing to stay a little further from the arena, these hotels offer a more relaxed vibe with great suite options:

Residence Inn by Marriott Kansas City Downtown/Union Hill Known for spacious suites with full kitchens, Residence Inn is perfect for longer stays and offers all the comforts of home. It’s a short distance from the T-Mobile Center, and while it’s not within walking distance, you can easily take a short drive or use Uber/Lyft. They also offer parking, but again, it’s a good idea to reserve ahead.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Kansas City Downtown A fantastic option for travelers looking for a suite with a kitchenette. This hotel is in a great location with easy access to downtown Kansas City. It’s a bit farther from the T-Mobile Center than the other options, but still within a short drive. Homewood Suites offers complimentary parking, which is a huge plus compared to some of the other downtown hotels.

Parking Considerations: Parking can be limited in downtown Kansas City, especially during events like the Women’s Big 12 Tournament. Many hotels offer valet or on-site parking for a fee, but some may have limited availability. Be sure to check with the hotel in advance to confirm parking arrangements and availability for larger vehicles like SUVs or those with trailers if necessary. Alternatively, if parking is difficult, you can always rely on public transportation, Uber, or Lyft for easy access to the arena.

Additional Tips:
- Consider using apps like SpotHero to reserve parking in advance if your hotel doesn’t offer guaranteed parking.
- If you want to experience more of downtown Kansas City, look for hotels close to restaurants and local attractions like Power & Light District, which is only a short walk from the T-Mobile Center.

Enjoy your stay in Kansas City, and have a great time at the tournament!