A New Beginning on a Site Marked by Tragedy: Kansas City, Kansas, welcomed its first con Tuesday, bringing a tropical escape to the heart of the Midwest. This vibrant addition was built on the former site of a tragic water park accident in 2016, where young Caleb Schwab, son of Kansas Secretary of State Mike Schwab, tragically lost his life.
During the hotel’s grand opening, a moment of silence was held in Caleb’s memory. Secretary Schwab was present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking both remembrance and renewal.
Vision for Joy and Community Revitalization
Trey Bowen, CEO of Superior Bowen, the asphalt contracting firm behind the redevelopment, shared the motivation behind the project:
“From that tragedy, we wanted to really redo this site in a way that brought lots of smiles,” Bowen said.
The transformation aims to breathe new life and happiness into the community by turning sorrow into a space of celebration.
Tropical Getaway for Locals and Visitors Alike
Adorned with palm trees, swimming pools, and an island-inspired atmosphere, Margaritaville offers a staycation destination that captures the essence of the Caribbean—without ever leaving Kansas.
Members of the Kansas City Parrot Head Club, a group of passionate Jimmy Buffett fans, attended the opening to promote positivity and joy in everyday life.
Sue Lee, a club member, said:
“We all find joy on a beach or listening to the sound of the ocean, but that’s not where we live.”
Locally Staffed and Community-Oriented
Zac Alft, the hotel’s General Manager, emphasized that nearly 90% of the staff are locals from the Kansas City area.
“Families in Kansas City can come for a staycation, or people can drive in to enjoy something unique without flying to the Caribbean,” Alft noted.
Significant Investment and Economic Boost
The project represents a $150 million investment, funded primarily through STAR Bonds (Sales Tax and Revenue Bonds), a tool used to support economic development in the region. The same financing model was used to build local attractions like the Kansas Speedway and Children’s Mercy Park.
Alft added:
“There’s going to be a lot of activity and tourism through this property, which will hopefully boost nearby businesses too.”
Wyandotte County Embraces Its Growth Potential
At the launch, Mayor Tyrone Garner highlighted the importance of Wyandotte County’s role in the project:
“Wyandotte County isn’t just a ‘why’—but a ‘why not?’ It’s the place to be.”
County Administrator David Johnston echoed the optimism, stating:
“We think it’s going to be a star for us.”
As both the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals consider relocating across state lines, Mayor Garner reinforced the county’s open-door approach:
“Wyandotte County is open for business, and we’d love to have them as neighbors.”
Welcoming Guests with Open Arms
Guests have already begun checking in at the Margaritaville Hotel. Although the late Jimmy Buffett couldn’t be there to see it, his legacy of laid-back island living lives on in Kansas.
Whether you’re planning a staycation, a weekend getaway, or just visiting for the day, Margaritaville offers a taste of paradise close to home.
With its vibrant ambiance and local roots, Margaritaville is set to become a key attraction in the region. As Kansas City evolves, this tropical retreat offers both a nod to healing and a bold step toward the future.
Pricing varies by stay duration, and day passes are available for non-overnight visitors.
The arrival of Margaritaville Hotel in Kansas City, Kansas, marks more than just the opening of a tropical-themed resort—it’s a powerful symbol of community healing, economic development, and joyful transformation. Built on a site once overshadowed by sorrow, the hotel now stands as a beacon of possibility and relaxation for locals and travelers alike.