It’s always 5 o’clock at Kansas City’s Margaritaville
It’s always 5 o’clock at Margaritaville Resort in Kansas City, Kansas. Or, so it seems. The hotel and resort complex opened in 2025 near the Legends shopping district.
As the area continues to develop – retail, entertainment, restaurants and professional sports franchises plan to call the area home – Margaritaville offers an opportunity to relax, enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, a little shopping and excellent food.
Margaritaville is ideal for an adult weekend getaway. Though, there are plenty of youth activities to entice families.
Jimmy Buffett-inspired
The resort hotel concept was inspired by the laid-back, beach life music by the late Jimmy Buffett. The singer was involved with developing the concept, though he didn’t own the company outright.
With more than 30 locations across the United States, as well as Central America and Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to find the lost shaker of salt Buffett mentioned in his hit song, “Margaritaville.”
The hotel definitely has a resort vibe to it. You’ll feel it as soon as you pull up to the entrance. You can self-park or use the valet. I preferred to park my vehicle. It’s a short walk to the entrance.
Once inside, you’ll be impressed with the colorful decor, using pastels and a motif associated with beach life.
The art is magnificent. Beginning with the giant flip-flop sandal sculpture in the lobby, the hotel features unique pieces, such as origami cranes hanging from a ceiling and sailboat sculptures on tables.
“Yacht rock” music plays throughout the resort grounds, with a Jimmy Buffett song every now-and-then. The music helps set the tone.
Comfy stay
Rooms are comfy. With king and queen size beds, the pillows are excellent. Sometimes, hotels can drop the ball when it comes to where you rest your head. But not at Margaritaville. There’s a nice work area (should you believe in such a concept during your stay). A nice coffeemaker (not a Keurig, sadly) is available. Walk-in showers provide a safe environment for travelers of all ages.
Each room comes with a small balcony, perfect for enjoying morning coffee as you watch the sun rise in the east, or enjoy a nightcap as you reflect on the day’s activities.
The Landshark Bar and Grill offers beach-influenced drinks. Forget the names, just order a color. You’ll be pleased, either way.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served there, as well. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from salads to burgers and sandwiches. Order off the menu or grab a weekend buffet for breakfast. I was partial to the behemoth club sandwich, which I ordered twice, though I was unable to finish it either time. Consider balcony dining on a nice day.
The bar hosts live acoustic music each weekend evening. It’s an enjoyable end to a busy day of taking in KCK’s bevy of attractions.
Pool, other amenities
As with any resort, Margaritaville features a variety of activities, from a not-just-for-kids arcade to outdoor corn hole games. Maybe just kick back and enjoy a nap on oversized hammocks.
Of course, laying by the pool is always a welcome break. Let the kids play and splash around in the indoor pool, while you chill by the spacious outdoor pool.
If you want/need to work out, the resort’s fitness center has plenty of aerobic equipment and weights.
Check out the Margaritaville store, with its excellent choices among clothing, such as a T-shirt, sweatshirt or cap, while souvenirs such as kay chains, coffee mugs and magnets are also available for purchase.
Since Margaritaville is currently a short drive from any convenience or grocery markets, if you need something, there’s a small store on-site. Consider grabbing a coffee to go while you’re there.
As you plan your visit, you’ll need to budget daily resort and parking fees into your reservation. The costs are separate from the room’s price.
Margaritaville Resort was an excellent experience. If you enjoy a resort-style hotel in the middle of the country, this is the place.
Chill and enjoy a change in latitude and a change in attitude, Midwest style.
