Hilton President Kansas City
Hilton President Kansas City hotel is a historic downtown property in the Power & Light District, known for its 1920s architecture, political history, and walkable location near Kansas City’s top venues. Opened in 1926, it remains one of the city’s most recognizable landmark hotels.
Historic Significance
The hotel played a central role in U.S. political history, serving as headquarters for the 1928 Republican National Convention where Herbert Hoover was nominated. Notable guests have included Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Gerald Ford.
Entertainment Legacy
Inside the hotel is the Drum Room Lounge, a Kansas City staple since 1941. The venue has hosted major performers including Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline, Benny Goodman, and Sammy Davis Jr. It was originally designed with a drum-shaped bar and connected to nearby theaters through a private tunnel.
Modern Restoration
A $45 million renovation in 2005 transformed the hotel into 213 larger guest rooms while preserving original features like the Congress Ballroom. The result is a blend of historic character and updated accommodations in the center of downtown.
Ride the KC Streetcar
The free KC Streetcar stops just two blocks away at 14th & Main (Power & Light stop), offering complimentary transportation to the River Market, Crown Center, and Union Station.
Experience the Drum Room
The on-site Drum Room lounge is a historic KC landmark that serves legendary craft cocktails in a space that once hosted Frank Sinatra and Patsy Cline.
Utilize Covered Parking
Downtown parking can be scarce during major arena events. Opt for the hotel’s secure valet parking ($45/day) or self-parking ($30/day), both of which feature unlimited in-and-out privileges
What Will I See From My Room?
Room views vary by which direction your window faces. Use this as a guide when selecting your floor in the viewer above.
Active city views overlooking nightlife, streets, and skyline. Best for energy and nighttime views.
City View and the iconic Liberty Memorial visible on higher floors.
Downtown Kansas City's premier sports and live entertainment arena, a direct 0.4-mile walk east through the Power & Light District.
ZERO VIEW A Skyscraper blocks the view entirely across all floors. West-facing rooms should be avoided.
Room 1320, 1224, 1112. Rooms 132 and 110 don't have a view but these rooms are huge in size.
Avoid every room on the west side no matter what floor you're on you're going to be facing a skyscraper will have zero view.
What are the check-in and check-out times at the Hilton President Kansas City?
Check-in at the Hilton President Kansas City begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is required by 12:00 PM. Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability.
Which rooms at the Hilton President Kansas City should I avoid for bad views?
West-facing rooms at the Hilton President Kansas City directly face an adjacent high-rise building, resulting in obstructed outward views. Guests seeking optimal downtown sightlines should request East, North, or South-facing accommodations upon booking.
Have any U.S. Presidents stayed at the Hilton President Kansas City?
Yes. The hotel has hosted multiple U.S. Presidents, including Herbert Hoover, Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Richard Nixon. It also served as a key headquarters location during the 1928 Republican National Convention, where Herbert Hoover was nominated.
Is the Hilton President Kansas City pet-friendly?
No, the Hilton President Kansas City is not a pet-friendly hotel. Only ADA-recognized service animals are permitted on the property.
When was the Hilton President Kansas City built?
The Hilton President Kansas City was built in 1925 and opened in 1926. It closed in 1980, was restored, and reopened as a Hilton in 2005–2006 following a major renovation. Additional renovations in 2017 and 2019 modernized the guest rooms and public spaces.
Is breakfast included at the Hilton President Kansas City?
Breakfast is served in the Walnut Ballroom, but it is not included in the standard room rate. A full buffet is available for a fee, though Hilton Honors Gold and Diamond members can apply their daily food and beverage credit toward the meal.
Is the Hilton President Kansas City a historic hotel?
Yes. The Hilton President is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel has hosted U.S. Presidents and celebrated figures throughout its nearly 100-year history.
What is the Drum Room at the Hilton President?
Operating since 1941, the Drum Room is the hotel's historic on-site lounge. Famous for hosting legendary performers like Frank Sinatra and Patsy Cline, it currently serves craft cocktails and features live music, serving as a direct link to Kansas City's jazz heritage.
Does the Hilton President Kansas City have a pool?
No, the Hilton President Kansas City does not feature an on-site swimming pool. However, guests are provided 24-hour access to a fully equipped on-site fitness center.
How much is parking at the Hilton President Kansas City?
The Hilton President Kansas City charges $30.00 per day for self-parking and $45.00 per day for valet parking. Both options are located on-site and the fees are typically billed directly to your guest room.