The 1812 Overture is a three-story Victorian brick house situated on a hill overlooking downtown. The views of downtown from the front porch are magnificent at night. The minute I walked up the stairs and entered the vestibule, I was enthralled. The house is an eclectic mix of Victoriana, cowboy sculpture, and Japanese porcelain. Built in the 1880s, the house has the original hand-painted flower wallpaper along with Japanese-themed wall covering sporting mountains, cliffs and oceans. Luke and Pedro, the innkeepers, have done an incredible job of combining the whimsical with the original and the two downstair parlors, separated by carved wooden pocket doors, are stuffed full of collectibles.

Rooms are available either with shared bath or with baths in the room. My room was on the top floor and was plain and functional, with furniture that seemed like it might have been bought at a second-hand store. The bathroom was across the hall and was large. There were some toiletries, although nothing fancy. There are other rooms that were more attractively furnished and if I was returning, I would opt for one of those. There was a simple continental breakfast served each morning in the dining room: fruit, cold and hot cereal, bagels and coffee.

Luke and Pedro, the two innkeepers, are warm, friendly and welcoming which added to the pleasure of my trip. I only wish that I had more time to hang out in the parlor, relaxing and listening to the Sara McLaughlin music playing in the background. For anyone traveling to Kansas City who needs to be close to downtown, I would recommend staying here if you are are willing to forego some of the luxury one expects during business travel. The 1812 is an experience you will not forget and will leave you with fond memories of your stay in Kansas City.