Commerce Tower - Kansas City
The Commerce Tower has a fantastic history and because of its uniqueness as an example of architecture, it has managed to get itself protected status. For the few months that I lived in Kansas City recently, I was able to work at this gem and was lucky enough to be granted access to the (very scary) roof of this gem.
Located in the heart of KC's old financial district, the tower now exists as modestly-priced apartments and condos. You can walk to all the coolest spots in the area and the streetcar will take you to even more fun neighborhoods. That's cool and all ... but that view!
My friend, Shella, and I (go check out her awesome Instagram page) went up there in there in the early evening so we could make certain to get plenty of light for the views but also to ensure we would get great sunset imagery. I think we succeeded.
From the top, we could see far into Kansas, miles and miles of Big Muddy, the super cool River Market neighborhood, and we got an eyeful of the many, swell art deco elements on the nearby buildings.
I've lived in and moved away from Kansas City enough times to know that it's not the kind of town for me to live in long-term, but I also know that the place is chock full of American history and in its present form is a fantastic destination for visitors. For residents, the art and entertainment scene is top notch and I'm grateful that KC is making huge steps to create a pedestrian/bicycle friendly downtown.
... but that view!
