Memories of family vacations are likely to stay with you for a lifetime, so it is important to have more fun than stress.
Crown Center (www.crowncenter.com) in Kansas City hopes to eliminate any tension associated with traveling by bringing lodging, food, shopping and entertainment together all in one place. Even better, you can leave your car at home.
The Amtrak station in Jefferson City provides two trips daily on the Missouri River Runner to Kansas City's Union Station, which is connected to Crown Center via an enclosed sky walk. Both the morning and evening rides take about three hours and 20 minutes with stops along the way in Sedalia, Warrensburg, Lee's Summit and Independence.
Ask the station agent for a complimentary permit if you require long-term parking at the station. Tickets for the train can be purchased ahead of time at www.Amtrak.com.