Museums are the cultural hubs of Kansas City. Whether you’re looking to learn something new about the City of Fountains or plotting a way to spend your Saturday afternoon, here are 16 museums to visit in KC.
History
Arabia Steamboat Museum, 400 Grand Blvd. | $0-$16.50
Explore the shipwreck of the Steamboat Arabia, lost to the Mighty Mo’ for 132 years until its discovery in 1988. From clothing and carpentry tools to the world’s oldest pickles, there’s a little something for everyone just inside City Market.
Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum, 500 W. U.S. Hwy. 24, Independence | $0–$12
Take a deep dive into the life and legacy of the 33rd president through interactive exhibits, handwritten letters, and the restored Oval Office. Bonus: You can visit Truman’s gravesite on the grounds.
John Wornall House Museum, 6115 Wornall Rd. | $0-$8
This 1858 Greek Revival home served as a field hospital during the Battle of Westport. Today, it offers a glimpse into Civil War-era KC with guided tours, seasonal events, and ghost stories.
Kansas City Museum, 3218 Gladstone Blvd. | Free
Once a private mansion from 1910 to 1940, you can explore Corinthian Hall’s four floors for history exhibits, art installations, and reimagined rooms like the Elixir soda fountain.
National WWI Museum and Memorial, 2 Memorial Dr. | $0-$19.50
It’s one of the most scenic spots in the city. Explore the grounds for skyline views and dip below the tower for the nation’s only dedicated WWI museum’s world-class rotating exhibits.
ICYMI — Stay tuned for its 2026 FIFA Fan Festival transformation.
Shoal Creek Living History Museum, 7000 NE Barry Rd. | Free
You can use the walking trails anytime, but we recommend stopping by during special events to see the 19th century village come to life with working buildings + re-enactors.
TWA Museum, 10 NW Richards Rd. | $0–$12
Housed inside the original TWA headquarters at the downtown airport, this museum celebrates KC’s aviation history.
Nelson-Atkins Museum is open Thursday-Monday. | Photo by @mikedayphotography
Arts
American Jazz Museum, 1616 E. 18th St. | $0-$10
Located within the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a space dedicated to the sounds of Kansas City’s unique music scene. See what gave rise to the cradle of jazz and keep your toes tapping at the The Blue Room.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, 4420 Warwick Blvd. | Free
Even its special exhibitions are free to the public, meaning you can explore without your wallet — though we recommend bring it just in case you’re drawn to the culinary artwork inside Oil in Linen.
Museum of BBQ, 2450 Grand Blvd. | $10
Take a saucy stroll through two immersive paths — one spotlighting iconic US barbecue regions, the other breaking down the ingredients and techniques behind the magic. (Pro tip: Don’t skip the baked bean ball pit.)
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 4525 Oak St. | Free, Price of exhibit
Between the outdoor sculpture garden, Bloch Building, Rozelle Court, Tivoli theater, and its impending expansion — there something new to see each time you visit.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy? Grab a coffee inside from Thou Mayest before spending your lunch break laying out on the lush front lawn.
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park | Free
Located on the Johnson County Community College campus, this sleek space features nationally acclaimed contemporary art exhibits — plus a rotating collection of works by local and regional artists.
Interactive + kid-friendly
Money Museum, 1 Memorial Dr. | Free
As one of twelve cities with a regional Federal Reserve, Kansas Citians can learn how the Bank processes millions of dollars in currency daily. Plus, you get to walk away with a bag of (shredded) money.
Museum at Prariefire, 5801 W. 135th St., Overland Park | $0-$5
Soon to be the home of the College Baseball Hall of Fame, this south OP anchor is a natural history museum, discovery center + exhibition hall all in one.
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, 5235 Oak St. | $0-$10
Peer through the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and toys all in one place.
The Rabbit hOle, 919 E. 14th Ave., NKC | $16
The newly-opened children’s literary experience earned KC a spot on TIME’s World Greatest Places list, so we just had to see it for ourselves.
The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City, 433 E Red Bridge Rd. | $0-$16
Come for the interactive + accessible exhibits, stay for the kid-friendly workshops and classes ranging from sensational play to engineering.
Science City at Union Station, 30 W. Pershing Rd. | $16.50
Explore ~100,000 sqft of interactive exhibits and play spaces, all geared towards engaging your kiddos in the world of STEAM.
Sports
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, 1616 E. 18th St. | $0-$10
The Monarchs won Kansas City’s first world series 100 years ago, now we can revisit the historic moment during the museum’s special anniversary season.
The College Basketball Experience, 1401 Grand Blvd. | $15-$20
Get off the bench and immerse yourself with interactive galleries + activities honoring the sport’s great players + the pure love of the game.
What to bring
Whether you’re heading to check out the latest art showcase or ready to marvel through historic architecture, have these essentials on hand while you venture through your local museums:
- Stay hydrated while you peruse ancient artifacts with this 64 oz leak proof glass jug with versatile lids for easy use.
- Pack light and breeze through security screenings using this clear, waterproof cross sling bag to comfortably carry your valuables.
- Don’t forget to pack snacks for the tours –– like these low calorie, low sugar KIND Bar minis that give your taste buds the perfect salty/sweet combo.
- Your feet will be ready to conquer the world when you wear this pair of New Balance women’s sneakers that give all day support and cushion.
- These quick drying cargo shorts by Wrangler give a relaxed and comfortable fit and feature extra pockets for easy storage of car keys, cell phones, and a museum guide.
- Use the thick lined pages of this compact style, vegan leather journal to capture your thoughts as you spectate whimsical paintings and statues.
What did we miss? If you know a museum that’s not on the list, let us know.
