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Do you know about the Museum of BBQ in Kansas City? In May, I learned about a new museum and booked a quick trip to Missouri before heading back to work for my 32nd year in education. What a great way to end a summer of domestic and international traveling.
Fares were high, but I had over $400 in credits. Yes, I still have credits from Southwest that do not expire. You can only apply two credits per transaction. I booked a nonstop round-trip flight to Kansas City for $150. Even though the flight was at 7:00AM, I timed my arrival to take a rideshare to the hotel, drop off my luggage, and stop by Panera Bread (Sip Club) for a beverage before heading to the museum at 10:00AM.
Sometimes I book my room the day of the trip, because I can cancel my flight 10 minutes before boarding starts to receive a credit. However, hotel reservations are different. I monitored the availability of rooms because I wanted to use points (19,000) plus cash ($100). I intentionally booked a room at the Westin because it is connected to the Crown Center. The museum is within walking distance of the hotel. As a matter of fact, you never have to go outside. Are you a Marriott Bonvoy Member? Do not forget to link your hotel and rideshare accounts.
The traditional king room was the same price point as the larger king corner room. Of course, I booked the larger room. Always scroll through the website to view all rooms and compare rates. Because I wanted to visit the Escape Lounge, I checked out at 11:00AM. As a Gold Elite Member, my checkout time is 2:00PM. Check your current level to understand your benefits.
I like barbecue and thought the museum would be a great place to learn more about one of my favorite dishes. I purchased my ticket online. If you are in Kansas City, stop by. I spent an hour reading, playing games, and taking pictures. As I walked around the museum, I realized I had not tried barbecue from Texas. I dined at Rendezvous in Memphis and Rodney Scott’s in South Carolina. If you know someone who loves to barbecue, stop by the gift shop for a unique souvenir. I picked up Rendezvous Famous Seasoning Rub. Just as I attended the Hot Chicken Festival in Nashville, I would love to attend a BBQ Festival featuring meals from all four states.
The menu at Burnt End BBQ was overwhelming for me. That usually happens when you have too many options. I purchased the Meat Platter, Burnt Ends, Cornbread Bites, and Pit Beans. As I tasted the burnt ends, I realized I had ignored the advice from the BBQ Museum. There was a mixture of burnt ends, some more meaty than others. The cornbread bites were interesting, but the highlight of the meal was the pit beans. Toasted bread and sliced dill pickles were included.
There are several small shops throughout the Crown Center. You can personalize an ornament at Shop Local KC for $20. I purchased two patches for my travel jacket at Sportibles.
I arrived in enough time to take advantage of the three-hour window in case it was crowded, and I had to wait. Every year, I look for a different lounge to visit when I register for the SWA Promotional Companion Pass. In the past, we have visited the Centurion Lounge at Denver International Airport and the Escape Lounge in Minneapolis.
Although this was a quick trip, I saved the most money on accommodations by redeeming a gift card and using points plus cash. I used Uber for the ride to the Westin and Lyft for the ride to the airport. I also applied the $15 Uber Cash from my Amex Platinum benefits. Panera is available in every state except Alaska and Hawaii, and I utilize my SIP Club membership when I travel. Panera was conveniently located across the street from the Crown Center. I love their Hibiscus Tea. Finally, I save money on meals by eating at the airport lounge. Check your travel rewards benefits.
