Background

Kansas City Power and Light Building: An Art Deco Icon

Experience Kansas City's iconic Art Deco skyscraper, a symbol of progress and innovation in the heart of the Power & Light District.

4.5

The Kansas City Power and Light Building, a stunning Art Deco skyscraper completed in 1931, stands as a landmark in downtown Kansas City. Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi River, its illuminated lantern and intricate architectural details continue to captivate visitors and symbolize the city's progress and innovation.

A brief summary to Kansas City Power and Light Building

Local tips

  • Visit during the evening to witness the building's stunning lighting display and the vibrant atmosphere of the Power & Light District.
  • Explore the building's lobby, now a premier event space, to appreciate its intricate Art Deco details.
  • Check for local events and concerts in the Power & Light District to enhance your visit.
  • Take advantage of the free KC Streetcar to explore other downtown attractions, including Union Station and the River Market.
  • Bring your camera to capture the building's architectural beauty, especially the illuminated lantern at night.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in downtown Kansas City, the Power and Light Building is easily accessible on foot. From the Kansas City City Market, walk southwest on Walnut Street, then turn left onto Main Street. Continue south until you reach 14th Street, then turn right. The building will be on your right at 106 W 14th St.

  • Public Transport

    The KC Streetcar provides free transportation to the Power & Light District. Several bus lines, including the 201, 9, MMAX, and PMAX, also stop near the building. Check the RideKC app for schedules and real-time information. The nearest bus stations are On 13th at Grand/McGee and On Grand at 12th.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Kansas City. A short ride from Union Station to the Power and Light Building typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages and surface lots are available in and around the Power & Light District. Valet parking is available on 14th Street between Main and Walnut for $10, subject to change during events. The KC Live! Parking Garage offers daily access, and validation from Power & Light District venues can provide discounts. Other parking options include the East Village Garage and the Block 112 Lot, with rates varying based on time and location. Expect to pay $8-$20 for a few hours of parking.

Unlock the Best of Kansas City Power and Light Building

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kansas City Power and Light Building

The Kansas City Power and Light Building is a distinguished example of Art Deco architecture located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Completed in 1931, the 34-story skyscraper was commissioned by Joseph F. Porter, president of Kansas City Power and Light, to stimulate job creation during the Great Depression. Designed by the local firm Hoit, Price & Barnes, the building quickly became an iconic feature of the city's skyline. At the time of its completion, the Power and Light Building was the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River, a title it held until the completion of the Space Needle in 1962. Its architectural style is characterized by clean, vertical lines, a stepped-back design, and an exterior clad in Indiana limestone. The building's most iconic feature is the 21-foot-tall lantern at its peak, which was originally illuminated with red and orange lights to create a flame-like effect. Today, it is lit with rotating LED lights that continue to captivate onlookers. The lobby is adorned with marble and granite floors, plaster ceilings, and custom metalwork, showcasing geometric patterns and bold lines consistent with the Art Deco style. The building also featured showrooms for electrical appliances and a two-story auditorium for demonstrations. After Kansas City Power & Light Co. left the building in 1991, it was transformed into a luxury apartment complex in 2014, blending modern living spaces with historic architecture. The lobby was converted into a premier event space. Today, the Kansas City Power and Light Building anchors the vibrant Power & Light District, a hub of entertainment, dining, and nightlife. The building's enduring presence serves as a reminder of Kansas City's rich history and ongoing vitality.

Popular Experiences near Kansas City Power and Light Building

Popular Hotels near Kansas City Power and Light Building

Select Currency