There are three things we Kansas Citians truly can’t live without: food, water, and the Country Club Plaza. Whether you’re new to town or a true KC native, we can all agree that there’s really no place in the city like our Spanish-inspired shopping center. It’s no wonder so many people are flocking to nearby apartments to make the Plaza their home.
But wait, wait… isn’t living near the Plaza super expensive?
That, friends, is #FakeNews. Yes, there are some upscale apartments that may break the bank, but surprisingly, there are also great affordable apartments in the Plaza area, too. At LeasingKC, we aren’t just KC-fanatics, we’re also your local apartment experts. With a keen eye for the best deals, our website features a massive list of the best apartments that won’t have you scavenging for change—even on the Plaza.
So before you cross “living by the Plaza” off your dream list, keep reading to learn all about the perks of Country Club Plaza living and how to find the most affordable apartments in the Plaza. And hey, we may drop in a few apartments to get you started (hint: by may we mean we definitely will 😉).
Did you know?: The Plaza was basically a swamp at one point
Before the Plaza became the place we all know and love, it was Brush Creek Valley. Literally, it was nothing more than a creek, some wetland, and a pit stop for travelers. But real estate developer J.C. Nichols saw beyond the mud and swamp land. In the midst of the Roaring Twenties, he built a shopping center inspired by the beauty and art of Seville, Spain. By 1923, the Country Club Plaza was open for all.
BTW: The Plaza was the first shopping center in the world designed to accommodate vehicles. That kind of forward thinking has allowed the Plaza to thrive for almost a century!
Since its grand opening, the Plaza’s architecture hasn’t changed that much. Step into the Plaza in 2020 and you’ll surround yourself with over 30 statues, color-drenched mosaic tiles, murals around every corner, and the mouth-watering aroma of globally inspired food. And even though there’s still the hustle and bustle of cars, the sound of local musicians intertwine with the hum of those engines, bringing out that unique, urban artistry Kansas City is known for.
Oh, and did we mention fountains? How could we forget the massive J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain? As one of the most popular photo op locations in town, this fountain is sure to up your insta game. Or if you’re not into social media, you can simply sit down, make a wish, and relish in the moment.
With affordable apartments in the Plaza popping up left and right, you can also make this booming area your new home.
What to do at the Country Club Plaza
It’s no secret that there is much to do at the Plaza that there’s no way we can list it all in a single blog (unless you don’t mind a novel). But before you search for the most affordable apartments in the Plaza, here are some of our absolute favorite things to do (other than spending way too much money shopping!).
For outdoor lovers: Millcreek Park
Just outside the Plaza and next to the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain lies Mill Creek Park. With running tracks, exercise stations, and tennis courts, this 11-acre park is a great way to enjoy fresh air and stay active. Plus, you can take your pup along with you for some “doggie and me” time.
For art lovers: Plaza Art Fair
Okay, so you have to wait until September for this one, but you definitely want to add the 89th Annual Plaza Art Fair to your calendar. More than 300,000 attendees and artists from across the Midwest gather each year to enjoy fine art, good music, and great food. Even if you don’t know much about art, the Plaza Art Fair is the perfect place to get your foot in the door.
A Local’s Guide to the Plaza Art Fair 2020 →
For food lovers: Zocalo Mexican Grill and Tequileria
You could have a basic taco bar at home, or you could visit Zocalo Mexican Grill. This local eatery is traditional Mexican with a modern twist. Ever had a lobster and crab gourmet quesadilla? Well, you can get one at Zocalo, plus so much more. With a variety of lunch, dinner, and even brunch options (yes, there’s bottomless mimosas), we’d be surprised if you couldn’t find something to satisfy your palate.
For romance lovers: Carriage Rides
Date night isn’t at Applebee’s this time. Grab your significant other and wow them with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride down the streets of the Plaza. If you’re not singing Bella Notte in your head right now (yes, the song from Lady and the Tramp), you definitely will be after the most memorable and romantic date night you’ve ever had.
The most affordable apartments on the Plaza
Now to the part you’ve all been waiting for. We’ve found so many options for affordable apartments on the Plaza that our heads just might explode from excitement. Yes, that was a bit dramatic, but the point is—we got you. While many apartments near the plaza could run you well over $1000 a month for a one bedroom, we’ve found a few of our favorite facilities that are $1,000 or less 🙌
Plaza 209
Recently upgraded, these luxurious but affordable apartments are only minutes away from the Plaza, the Nelson-Atkins Museum, and UMKC. The new renovations include stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, in-unit washer and dryer (say goodbye to hoarding quarters), and free Google Fiber. For you bicycle enthusiasts, Plaza 209 also features a bike storage room complete with a work bench, tools, storage lockers, security cameras, and bike-friendly maps of K.C.!
Fountain View on the Plaza
Gorgeous pool, dazzling fountains, and amenities to die for—all without costing you thousands per month. Fountain View on the Plaza is located right by the Plaza and comes with resort-style amenities, including a controlled-access gates, a fitness center, and even valet trash pick up. Plus, they have their own parking garage, so you don’t have to worry about annoying street parking.
Regency Apartments
Sitting right across the Plaza Library, these affordable apartments in the Plaza are just steps away from all the action. With large rooms, granite countertops, and updated kitchens, you’re definitely getting a bang for your buck. It’s also great for college students looking for a place in walking distance to UMKC.
Sunset Towers
If natural light is your thing, then Sunset Towers may be the place for you! All units come with large windows, contemporary finishes, and breath-taking views. These high-rise units come with a laundry facility, dry cleaning, and a fitness center to shape up your summer bod 💪 You won’t even feel like you’re in one of the most affordable apartments the Kansas City Country Club Plaza has to offer.
The Coolest Apartments in the Kansas City Plaza →
Find the most affordable apartments on the Plaza
With so many activities inside and around the Plaza, an apartment in the area is sure to keep you at the heart of the action. There are a variety of neighborhoods and complexes that could fit anyone’s needs.
If you’re looking for the most affordable apartments on the Plaza, we’ve got you covered. LeasingKC is a rental listing site run by local experts to help you find Kansas City apartments, rental homes, condos, and lofts.
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