The Elms Hotel & Spa in Excelsior Springs offers a nearby refuge

Valentine’s Day is coming up fast, and you’d love to get away with your special someone, but time won’t allow more than a weekend. As it turns out the time constraint is not a problem as long as your getaway destination is The Elms Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs, located just 40 minutes northeast of downtown Kansas City.

The Elms has been a destination “to take the waters” for 125 years, garnering a reputation as the most relaxing spot in this part of the Midwest. Recent renovations include upgrades to the furnishings in the guest rooms and restaurant as well as a major makeover in the legendary spa featuring the addition of The Grotto, a Roman bath-inspired facility with luxurious steam rooms, saunas, pools, hot tub and showers.

Guests can enjoy the spa with the Romantic Escape Package, which includes a couples massage plus keepsake robes and wine glasses, with chocolates and valet service included with their Classic Room accommodations.

The Elms Hotel and Spa, 401 Regent St., Excelsior Springs, Mo. Special rate packages start at $159 and go up to $1,648. The Romantic Escape is $479.

Getting There

Excelsior Springs is located 28 miles northeast of Kansas City via Interstate 35, Hwy. 33 and Hwy. 10.

Around the Town

Excelsior Springs is named for a collection of mineral springs that put the town on the map more than 125 years ago. The Hall of Waters at 201 E. Broadway is a monument to the town’s heritage as a spa town. Originally built in 1937 as part of the New Deal, the Art Deco-styled Hall of Waters featured 10 varieties of Excelsior Springs’ mineral water. Today, the building is home to city offices, a visitor center and a water bar area, which offers a self-guided Excelsior Springs history tour.

Willow Springs Mercantile at 249 Broadway is a purveyor of fine wine and gourmet foods. The Willow Springs Mercantile also sells jewelry, candles, handmade soaps and art, has a bistro offering soups and sandwiches, and live music on the weekends.

Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery is conveniently located near town at 31010 W. 124th St. This winery offers wine tastings, a patio overlooking the vineyard and scenic countryside where you can sip wine. Private tastings and tours are also available.

Where to Dine

88 at the Elms

Rustic Midwest American fare is center stage at The Elms’ showcase restaurant, using fresh ingredients from local farms, as well as vegetables and herbs from The Elms’ own gardens. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily.

Ventana Gourmet Grill

Meat lovers adore this place, a classic steakhouse with emphasis on quality ingredients and friendly service.  117 W. Broadway, 816-630-8600