Giant badminton shuttlecocks (the building represents the net) surround this encyclopedic museum, which has standout European painting, photography and Asian art collections. With free entry, a gorgeous sculpture garden and an expansive collection from top-tier artists, what's not to like? Blockbuster special exhibits carry admission fees.
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Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Top choice in Kansas City
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
9.11 MILES
See the simple life Harry (1884–1972) and Bess (1885–1982) lived in this basic but charming wood house. It's furnished with their original belongings and…
2.46 MILES
Enter this impressive modern museum on a glass walkway over a field of red poppies, the symbol of remembrance of WWI. Through detailed and engaging…
3.33 MILES
This comprehensive museum covers the lesser-known history of African American teams, such as the KC Monarchs and New York Black Yankees, that flourished…
2.75 MILES
Opened in 1914, KC's Union Station is a sublime example of the magnificent architecture that once was the hallmark of American train stations. Today it…
5.15 MILES
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0.64 MILES
Built in the 1920s, this posh commercial district (centered on Broadway and 47th St) boasts finely detailed, sumptuous Spanish architecture. It’s rich…
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Truman Presidential Museum & Library
9.46 MILES
There are thousands of objects, including the famous 'The Buck Stops Here!' sign, from the man who led the US through one of its most tumultuous eras…
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3.59 MILES
Really a gussied-up basketball hall of fame, this interactive (and entirely overstimulating) exhibition lets you try free throws or pretend you're an…
Nearby Kansas City attractions
1. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
0.23 MILES
Near the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Country Club Plaza, this museum is small and edgy with rotating exhibitions. The cafe is excellent.
0.64 MILES
Built in the 1920s, this posh commercial district (centered on Broadway and 47th St) boasts finely detailed, sumptuous Spanish architecture. It’s rich…
3. National Museum of Toys & Miniatures
0.99 MILES
Over 100 years of toys spread over 38 rooms, including the world’s largest fine-scale miniature collection. There are 51,000 toys, 3320 dolls and 1600…
2.46 MILES
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2.75 MILES
Opened in 1914, KC's Union Station is a sublime example of the magnificent architecture that once was the hallmark of American train stations. Today it…
3.33 MILES
Learn about different jazz styles, rhythms, instruments and musicians – including Kansas City native Charlie Parker – at this interactive museum, at the…
7. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
3.33 MILES
This comprehensive museum covers the lesser-known history of African American teams, such as the KC Monarchs and New York Black Yankees, that flourished…
8. College Basketball Experience
3.59 MILES
Really a gussied-up basketball hall of fame, this interactive (and entirely overstimulating) exhibition lets you try free throws or pretend you're an…