
Kansas City Museum
Explore a stunning 70-room Beaux-Arts mansion and delve into Kansas City's rich history through captivating exhibits.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission!

Kansas City Museum
Best Time
Free admission!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a stunning 70-room Beaux-Arts mansion and delve into Kansas City's rich history through captivating exhibits.
"Absolutely amazing museum! Gorgeous mansion, beautifully restored, and free admission."

🎯 Free Friday Admission
Visit on Fridays for free entry and explore the mansion and exhibits without a ticket cost.
🎬 Don't Miss the Film
The museum's film offers great context for the exhibits and local history.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Beaux-Arts Mansion
Main Floors
Step back in time in this opulent 70-room mansion, showcasing the grandeur of the Long family's era.

Kansas City History Exhibits
Upper Floors
Discover the evolution of Kansas City, from its Native American roots to its modern-day spirit.

Museum Film
Gain valuable context and insights into the museum's narrative through its compelling short film.

Basement Soda Shop/Coffee Bar
A cool, unexpected spot for a refreshment after exploring the museum's historical treasures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Fridays & Mansion Charm
Beyond the Mansion Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Friday Admission
Visit on Fridays for free entry and explore the mansion and exhibits without a ticket cost.
🎬 Don't Miss the Film
The museum's film offers great context for the exhibits and local history.
🏛️ Explore All Floors
The main floors showcase the mansion's original glory, while upper levels detail KC's history.
☕ Basement Refreshments
Grab a coffee or soda at the cool shop located in the basement.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Friday Admission
Visit on Fridays for free entry and explore the mansion and exhibits without a ticket cost.
🎬 Don't Miss the Film
The museum's film offers great context for the exhibits and local history.
🏛️ Explore All Floors
The main floors showcase the mansion's original glory, while upper levels detail KC's history.
☕ Basement Refreshments
Grab a coffee or soda at the cool shop located in the basement.
🧐 Be Aware of Bias
Some exhibits on upper floors may present a strong political viewpoint.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kansas City Museum for its stunning Beaux-Arts mansion, free Friday admission, and engaging exhibits on local history. The restored interiors and the informative film are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some guests note a political slant in certain displays, but overall, the museum is highly recommended for its historical insights and architectural beauty.
"Free on Fridays. Interesting place to learn local history about the Long family and Kansas City. The film they show is worth seeing. As for the exhibits, it's good information, more signage than artifacts, but definitely worth the visit."
Karin Boeck
"Overall this was an excellent experience. This facility is state of the art, and the displays do an excellent job of holding you attention. Also the lady at the front desk was extremely helpful and friendly. My only issue is that many of the displays on the 2nd and 3rd floors do have a hard political bent towards one side of the aisle. Overall a good exprerience that I would recomend to others"
Cliff McNutt
"Absolutely amazing museum! Gorgeous mansion, beautifully restored, and free admission. We had a group of 12 people, and the tour guide was quite knowledgeable. The main floor and lower level was restored to how the home looked as built. The upper 2 floors are typical museum exhibit space, depicting the history of Kansas City, going back to the native Americans who settled in the area. Way surpassed my expectations!!! My girlfriend and I will be back, as our group didn't get much time visiting the upper 2 floors due to our schedule."
John Rau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kansas City Museum is located at 3014 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64109. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available. Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving the museum's area.
Yes, there is typically parking available at the Kansas City Museum. Visitors often find street parking or designated lots near the mansion. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially on busy days, to secure a convenient spot.
Public transportation options to the Kansas City Museum can be limited. It's recommended to check the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) website for the most current bus routes and schedules that service the museum's vicinity.
Using a GPS navigation app on your smartphone is the most straightforward way to reach the Kansas City Museum. Inputting the address '3014 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64109' will provide real-time directions.
While the museum itself is a significant attraction, the surrounding area offers parks and residential architecture. For broader exploration, consider combining your visit with other Kansas City landmarks, though they may require separate travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Kansas City Museum offers free admission every Friday, making it an accessible option for many visitors.
On other days, there may be an admission fee, so it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and hours.Opening hours for the Kansas City Museum can vary. It's highly recommended to check the museum's official website or social media channels for the most current operating hours, as they may change seasonally or for special events.
For general admission, booking tickets in advance is usually not required, especially on free Fridays. However, for special tours or events, it's advisable to check the museum's website to see if advance booking is recommended or necessary.
The museum offers free admission on Fridays, which is the primary discount. Other potential discounts for specific groups (like seniors or students) might be available on certain days or for special exhibitions, so checking their website is key.
General admission typically grants access to the historic mansion, its restored rooms, and the museum exhibits detailing Kansas City's history. Special tours or temporary exhibitions might have separate fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning 70-room Beaux-Arts mansion, including its beautifully restored main floors, and exhibits on the upper levels that cover Kansas City's history. Don't miss the compelling museum film and the basement soda shop/coffee bar.
A visit to the Kansas City Museum can range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and the mansion's history. If you plan to watch the film and thoroughly explore, allocate more time.
While the mansion's history and exhibits are educational, the primary focus is on local history rather than interactive children's exhibits. However, the basement soda shop and the grandeur of the mansion can still be engaging for older children.
Guided tours may be available, especially for groups, and can offer deeper insights into the mansion's history and the Long family. It's best to check the museum's website or contact them directly to inquire about tour schedules and booking.
The museum offers restrooms and a unique soda shop/coffee bar in the basement for refreshments. Accessibility might be a consideration in a historic mansion, so it's wise to inquire about specific needs if required.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Kansas City Museum has a soda shop/coffee bar located in the basement, offering refreshments. It's a cool spot to grab a drink or a snack after exploring the museum.
Generally, it's best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum premises to preserve the historic interiors. The basement coffee bar provides a convenient option for on-site refreshments.
The museum is located in a residential area, but you can find various dining options in nearby Kansas City neighborhoods. Exploring areas like the Crossroads Arts District or the Country Club Plaza will offer a wider selection of restaurants.
The basement coffee bar offers sodas and coffee, providing a casual and convenient place to relax. It's more of a refreshment stop than a full-service restaurant.
The basement coffee bar offers typical refreshment prices. For a wider range of dining experiences and price points, exploring restaurants outside the museum is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Kansas City Museum, especially in the public exhibit areas and the mansion's common spaces. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. Always check for posted signage.
While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or videography may require special permission. Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited in certain areas to preserve exhibits.
The grand architecture of the Beaux-Arts mansion, both interior and exterior, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The restored rooms and the museum's exhibits also provide unique backdrops for capturing memories.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during peak hours or in crowded areas, to ensure smooth visitor flow and prevent damage. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon arrival if you plan to use a tripod.
The museum highlights its restored mansion interiors and historical exhibits as key visual points. The exterior architecture and grounds also offer picturesque views, especially during different seasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more interactive children's museum experience in Kansas City, consider The Rabbit hOle (children's literature museum) or KidScape at The Johnson County Museum. These venues are specifically designed with young visitors in mind, offering hands-on activities and immersive environments. However, if your family enjoys history and grand architecture, the Kansas City Museum is still a worthwhile visit, especially on free Fridays.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a packed lunch or snacks, and perhaps enjoy a coffee from the basement shop, to keep dining costs low. The museum offers significant historical and architectural value, making it a rewarding experience that doesn't break the bank.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the museum's film, which provides crucial context for the historical narratives presented. While some exhibits may have a specific viewpoint, the overall collection offers a comprehensive overview of Kansas City's past. The opportunity to explore such a grand historic home makes it a unique destination for history enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Long Family Mansion
Beyond the grandeur of the main living areas, the mansion's design and preservation efforts are a testament to the city's commitment to its heritage. The upper floors transition into museum exhibit space, but the mansion's historical integrity is maintained throughout. It's an immersive experience that goes beyond simply viewing artifacts; it's about understanding the context of the people who lived there and their impact on Kansas City's development.
Exploring Kansas City's History
While the exhibits are informative, some visitors note a particular political perspective in certain displays. It's worth approaching these sections with an awareness of potential biases. The museum's film is also a highly recommended component of the visitor experience, providing a concise yet impactful overview that complements the on-site exhibits and offers deeper context for understanding Kansas City's past and present.
Beyond the Exhibits: Amenities and Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere of the museum is one of historical immersion combined with a sense of community engagement. The free Friday admission policy makes it an accessible destination for locals and tourists alike, fostering a welcoming environment. The blend of grand architecture, historical narratives, and thoughtful amenities creates a memorable and enriching visit for all who step through its doors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit