Kansas City: Looking for unique photo ops around Crown Center Mall

Kansas City
The Crown Center area offers some great views. The Western Auto Building is among the unique structures in Kansas City.

When you go to the mall or museum, do you explore the area? Or, do you just look for the reason for your visit? It’s easy to ignore the surroundings and just follow your path. We’ve all done it. While spending a morning in the Crown Center Mall area, I wanted to explore more than just the stores or restaurants.

The Crown Center area includes major Kansas City attractions Union Station and the World War I Liberty Memorial and Museum. My walk included those areas, as well as Washington Park.

With warm weather upon the city, it lived up to its nickname as “Fountain City,” as the mall had its outdoor fountains going full bore. The splash play area had dancing water. Later in the morning, children tried play in the water while parents fought to keep them out – it wasn’t that warm, apparently.

Kansas City
The splash fountain is popular among children to play in.

I love the fountains directly in front of the mall’s entrance. The water dances and looks pretty against the background, especially with a blue sky. I was in a playful mood with the camera, so I tried some different angles for water views. I must say I liked when I could see pellets of water against the rest of the H2O.

Kansas City
I had fun playing with speed on the camera.

Union Station is one of our favorite places to visit in Kansas City. We enjoy strolling through the area, taking in the sights and sounds. Every visit can bring new views. This trip was no different.

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As many times as we’ve been to Union Station, I never really noticed the door sign.

I looked up and out while walking through the main hall. The chandeliers high above the floor are beautiful and stand out against the background.

Kansas City
The station’s chandeliers are beautiful.

Union Station represents Kansas City’s history, while some of its neighboring buildings represent contemporary architecture. The depot provides a beautiful reflection against the glass of one of its neighbors.

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Reflection time.

The World War I memorial stands high above Union Station and its neighbors. Completed in 1926, the tower and exhibit halls were designed in Egyptian Revival. It’s a beautiful sight to take in, regardless of the angle.

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The World War I memorial with its open lawn space in front.

A walk through Washington Park offers visitors a chance to take in a Korean War memorial and statue of the United States’ first president. George Washington on horseback was dedicated to the city during the 200th celebration of the former general’s birth. After leading the American army to victory during the Revolutionary War, Washington was selected as the first chief executive for the new nation.

Kansas City
George Washington stands tall in his namesake park.

The park has several views, but one that is impressive is the Western Auto building. Built for the Coca-Cola Company in 1914, it has also served other companies. The 12-story building is currently home to the Western Auto lofts. The building has a unique design – a straight side while the opposite side curves.

Kansas City
Western Auto Building.

We enjoy checking out different architectural designs of buildings when we visit other cities. But, even with a location we’ve been to multiple times, such a Kansas City, we can still find new views among our favorite sites.

Next time you’re out and about, even in your hometown, look for different and unique items to take in. And enjoy your walks and travels.