Kelly Cole is president of Halls stores, specializing in modern luxury with names like Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Ermenegildo Zegna, Manolo Blahnik, Buccellati, Van Cleef & Arpels and others.

When it comes to shopping, what’s Kansas City’s best-kept secret?

Like Halls, there’s another local resource that travels the world to bring home the best, and that’s Scandia Down. It’s a unique store on the Country Club Plaza that plays to all your senses. Everything is personally selected by Ursala, the owner. She has exquisite taste, and you’ll find heirloom quality linens and accessories. The store has wonderful service and offers European style with a midwestern sensibility.

Another best-kept secret is The Crayola Store in Crown Center. Even locals aren’t always aware that they offer the most extensive selection of Crayola® products to be found anywhere outside the company’s factory in Easton, Pennsylvania. It’s a great creative experience for families.

What do you love best about Kansas City?

It’s a great juxtaposition. You have elegant old neighborhoods with fountains and boulevards and the revitalization of downtown with the loft/gallery vibe. Families come in from the suburbs to stroll on the Coutnry Club Plaza or check out the Crown Center and Kansas City Power & Light District urban scene. I also appreciate the fact that Kansas City has such a highly regarded arts culture, from the Lyric Opera to The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art—the Bloch addition gained national architectural attention for a reason.

If you had visitors for one day and could only do three things, what would you do?

First, the Kansas City food experience. I’d want them to sample the local flavor—everything from barbecue to The American Restaurant. Second, the Country Club Plaza shopping district—especially during the holidays. And third, Arrowhead Stadium—it’s a truly great sports venue.