Hey guys! Planning a trip from Ottawa University to Kansas City? Awesome! Whether you're a student, a visitor, or just curious, this guide's got you covered. We'll break down everything from the best travel options to things to do once you're in the heart of the Midwest. Let's get this adventure started!

Getting There: Your Transportation Options

Alright, let's talk about the journey itself. You've got a few solid choices to get you from Ottawa, Kansas, to Kansas City, Missouri. The best option for you depends on what you value most: speed, cost, or comfort. Let's dive in.

Driving: The Classic Road Trip

For those who love the freedom of the open road, driving is a fantastic option. The drive from Ottawa to Kansas City is roughly 60-70 miles, depending on your exact starting point and destination within the city. This translates to about a 1.5-hour drive, give or take, depending on traffic and how often you like to stop. This gives you time to plan, to have snacks, and to use the restroom whenever you want.

Pros: Control over your schedule, the ability to bring a lot of luggage, and the freedom to make detours. You can customize your trip.

Cons: The cost of gas, the potential for traffic, and the need for a designated driver. Plus, if you’re driving your own car, you'll need to factor in the wear and tear.

Tips: Make sure your car is in good shape before you go. Check your tire pressure, oil, and fluids. Plan your route using a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze to avoid traffic. Bring snacks and drinks, and make sure someone knows your route and expected arrival time. Also, listen to a podcast, a good book or even an album of your favorite music.

Public Transportation: Buses and Trains

If you're not keen on driving, or if you want to avoid the hassle of parking in Kansas City, public transportation is a viable alternative. This generally means taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate routes between Ottawa and Kansas City.

Pros: Generally more affordable than driving, and you can relax and enjoy the scenery or catch up on some reading. You don’t have to drive, so you can focus on other things and enjoy the travel.

Cons: Schedules are fixed, which means you have to plan accordingly. Travel times can be longer than driving, and you might have to transfer buses, which can be stressful if you have heavy luggage.

Tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times. Arrive at the bus station early to avoid any last-minute rush. Check the bus company's website for luggage restrictions and any other specific policies.

Ridesharing Services: Uber and Lyft

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are another option. However, availability in Ottawa might be limited compared to Kansas City. It's best to check the app to see if there are drivers available in Ottawa.

Pros: Convenient, door-to-door service. You don’t have to drive or navigate, and it’s usually quicker than public transport.

Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, especially during peak hours. Availability can be unpredictable in smaller towns like Ottawa.

Tips: Always check the estimated fare before requesting a ride. Make sure the driver and the vehicle match what’s shown in the app. Share your trip details with a friend or family member for safety.

Flying: A Quick but Potentially Costly Option

While you can't fly directly from Ottawa to Kansas City, you could consider flying from a nearby airport. However, this is generally not a practical option given the short distance. The time spent getting to the airport, going through security, and waiting for your flight would likely make this a less efficient choice.

Pros: The fastest travel time, if you include all the steps required to take the flight.

Cons: Very high costs and time for all the processes involved such as commuting to the airport, waiting, boarding, and the security checks.

Tips: Generally not recommended for this route due to the short distance.

Exploring Kansas City: What to See and Do

Alright, you've made it to Kansas City! Now what? Get ready for a city bursting with culture, delicious food, and plenty of entertainment. Here are some of the must-see attractions and activities.

Iconic Landmarks and Attractions

• The National World War I Museum and Memorial: A must-visit. Explore the history of the First World War in an immersive museum, and enjoy stunning views from the Liberty Memorial tower.
• Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Home to a world-class collection, and the iconic Shuttlecocks sculptures on the lawn.
• Country Club Plaza: A beautiful shopping and entertainment district inspired by Seville, Spain. Gorgeous architecture, fountains, and a lively atmosphere.
• Union Station: A historic train station that now houses science exhibits, a planetarium, and event spaces.
• Kauffman Stadium (for the baseball fans) and Arrowhead Stadium (for the football fans): Catch a Royals or Chiefs game if you're visiting during the season. The energy at these games is electric!

Foodie Adventures: Where to Eat

Kansas City is a foodie paradise, especially when it comes to barbecue. Get ready to indulge in some serious eats:

• Kansas City BBQ: Of course! Try some of the legendary BBQ joints like Arthur Bryant's, Gates Bar-B-Q, or Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que (formerly Oklahoma Joe's). Expect long lines, but it's worth the wait.
• Fine Dining: Kansas City has a thriving fine dining scene. Check out The American Restaurant for a special occasion or Novel for a modern dining experience.
• Casual Eats: From amazing Mexican food in the Westside to trendy cafes in the Crossroads Arts District, there's something for every taste.

Entertainment and Nightlife

• The Crossroads Arts District: Explore art galleries, boutiques, and lively bars.
• The Power & Light District: A vibrant entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
• Live Music: Kansas City has a rich jazz heritage. Check out the historic 18th & Vine district for live jazz performances.
• Breweries and Distilleries: Kansas City has a great craft beer and spirits scene. There are plenty of breweries and distilleries to explore.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Kansas City

Planning your stay is as important as the trip itself. Kansas City offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences:

Hotels

• Downtown: Great for exploring the city's attractions, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury.
• Country Club Plaza: Upscale hotels with easy access to shopping and dining.
• The Plaza: More options near the Kansas City Plaza, which is a great place to visit.
• The Crossroads: Hip and trendy hotels close to the arts district.

Vacation Rentals

Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms offer a range of apartments and houses, providing a more home-like experience. This can be a great option for longer stays or if you're traveling with a group.

Budget-Friendly Options

Hostels and budget hotels are available, especially in the downtown area. These are great choices if you are traveling on a budget.

Planning Your Trip: Important Tips

To make your trip from Ottawa to Kansas City a breeze, here are a few extra tips to consider:

Weather Considerations

• Summer: Hot and humid. Pack light, breathable clothing, and stay hydrated. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
• Winter: Cold and potentially snowy. Pack warm clothes, including a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf.
• Spring/Fall: Mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.

Budgeting Your Trip

• Transportation: Factor in the cost of gas, public transport tickets, or ride-sharing fares.
• Accommodation: Prices vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodation.
• Food: Budget for your meals, snacks, and drinks. Kansas City has options for all budgets.
• Activities: Set aside money for attractions, entertainment, and shopping.

Safety Tips

• Be aware of your surroundings: Especially in busy areas, like any other major city.
• Keep your valuables secure: Don't leave valuables visible in your car, and keep your wallet or purse close.
• Use reliable transportation: Stick to licensed taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transport.
• Stay hydrated: Especially during the summer months.

Wrapping Up: Your Journey Awaits!

There you have it, folks! This guide should give you a good start to planning your adventure from Ottawa University to Kansas City. Remember to customize your trip to fit your interests and budget. Whether you're a student looking for a change of scenery, or a visitor eager to explore a new city, Kansas City is sure to offer an unforgettable experience. Safe travels, and enjoy your time in the heart of the Midwest!