The world headquarter of Hallmark Cards, Crown Center is an 85-acre entertainment complex that includes live theatre, museums, shops, restaurants, hotels and some of Kansas City's most enjoyable fountains. At Christmas, Crown Center is home to the Mayor's Christmas Tree, often the largest live tree in the United States. During the winter, the city's only outdoor skating rink is the focal point of the complex.

Best and Worst Times to Visit Crown Center
Crown Center is especially beautiful during the Christmas holidays. On weekends in December, parking is almost impossible, so come during the week, if at all possible. This is also where the city's Irish Fest is held on Labor Day weekend, another fun time to visit, if you don't mind the crowds.

Must See/Do at Crown Center

• Watch fudge being made at Chip's Chocolate Factory.
• Have lunch delivered by a choochoo train at Fritz's Railroad Restaurant.
• Tour the Hallmark Visitors Center and make a free bow.

Admission to Crown Center
Crown Center and many of the activities here are free to the public, but other activities, such as the SeaLife Aquarium or shows at The Coterie Children's Theatre require admission. Neighboring hotels often offer packages or discounts. Check the Crown Center website for best deals.

Parking and Public Transportation to Crown Center
Crown Center includes a multi-level parking garage with more than 1,000. Parking is free if you have your ticket stamped by a merchant. Crown Center is also a stop on the city's Metro bus route. Taxi service is also plentiful in the city.

Food at the Crown Center
More than two dozen restaurants are located within Crown Center, as well as ice cream and bagels. Popular with the kids is the Crayola Café or Fritz's Railroad Restaurant. For fine dining, the American Restaurant at the top of the crown is one of Kansas City's best.

Insider Tip for Visitors to Crown Center
For an authentic souvenir of Kansas City and Crown Center, visit Customer Service on the second floor and ask for the Mayor's Christmas Tree ornaments. Created by Hallmark artists with the wood from each year's Mayor's Christmas trees, the sale of these ornaments provide a happy holiday for those with less means in Kansas City.

Author's bio: Diana Lambdin Meyer is a travel writer based in the Kansas City area. Follow her travels at www.mojotraveler.com.