No visit to Kansas City is complete without a visit to one or more of the outstanding local museums. From the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum to the Union Station Science City Museum to the Nelson-Atkins Musuem of Art there is something for everyone to see and enjoy in Kansas City's museums.
Sports History and Memorabilia
If baseball is a fascination, the Negro League Baseball Museum is well worth the visit. Leroy "Satchel" Paige, Jackie Robinson, and Kansas City legend John "Buck" O'Neil, are immortalized. The panache and verve of Negro League baseball are remembered as well as the struggle for inclusion and equality with Major League baseball players. Relive the years of the Kansas City Monarchs, a very successful team in its day and the other teams of the League.
In the Sprint Center, the American College Basketball Experience is an interactive tribute to college hoops and the people who have made it great. Shoot the three pointer or do a play by play of it here. The National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame is located here.
Kansas City Jazz
The American Jazz Museum is located in the 18th and Vine building that houses the Negro League Baseball Museum. Saxman Charlie "Bird" Parker got his start in the Kansas City jazz scene. Other jazz celebrities, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and Count Basie are present. The interactive nature of the museum makes it a good place for children. Visitors can sit and play or listen to jazz on headphones, taking their time and enjoying the rare and historical recordings.
After hours, visit The Blue Room for live jazz performances. A tribute to the 1930s Street Hotel club located in the neighborhood, this club also features Blue Monday Jam night each week except the last Monday of the month. Bring an instrument and sit in or just soak up the jazz. On Mondays and Thursdays, admission to the Blue Roomis free. Cover charges apply for weekends and special events.
History Museums in Kansas City
Those interested in history and military history will not want to miss the World War I Museum at the Liberty Memorial. This is the only comprehensive World War I museum and memorial in the country. Even Washington D. C. has no equivalent period collection to rival it. The Liberty Memorial itself was established shortly after the war ended to honor the many locals who fought in America's relatively brief involvement in that war, including John “Black Jack” Pershing, the American commander.
The photos, artifacts, weapons and uniforms on display are in cases between the simulated trenches and narrative recordings. There is an interactive computer area for searching for specific information. Multi-media presentations put the visitor on the scene and explain the circumstances of the war. Allow several hours for a visit. There is a restaurant in the building, and an elevator to the top of the Liberty Memorial Tower for a great view of Kansas City.
Though it is not in the bounds of Kansas City, The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library is an important local historical museum. From Harry's personal office setting to a discussion of his momentous decision to use the first nuclear weapons to end World War II, any history junkie will want to see this important collection. Located in Independence, Missouri, the Library is just minutes from downtown Kansas City.
Art Attractions in Kansas City
Art enthusiasts can stroll around the treasures at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. A few blocks away, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art houses works that will amuse, move and puzzle the viewer.
Kansas City’s architecture and fountains are works of art in themselves. Union Station is a prime example of the Beaux-Art style of architecture. The hand plastered ceiling has been restored by the same firm that restored Grand Central Station in New York City. Union Station houses a science museum, planetarium and gallery space that houses the latest touring exhibitions. In addition, it is still in use as an Amtrak station and railroad museum.
For something unique, the Kansas City Toy and Miniature Museum boasts intricate craftsmanship and delightful memories.
For more on Kansas City attractions, see Waters Wizards and Wonders.
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