Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art - A group of people walking down a street next to a building
1 / 10

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

4.6
·1k reviews·Kansas City, United States

A free museum showcasing powerful, challenging contemporary art from mid-20th century to present, with an acclaimed on-site restaurant.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, quiet contemplation

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art - A group of people walking down a street next to a building

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, quiet contemplation

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free museum showcasing powerful, challenging contemporary art from mid-20th century to present, with an acclaimed on-site restaurant.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A small but powerful museum filled with brilliant work from talented artists capturing life from differing perspectives."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy world-class art without cost! Admission and parking are free. :moneywithwings:

🍽️ Dine at Oil on Linen

Experience a creative menu by Chef Ted Habiger in a beautiful art-filled setting. :forkandknife:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hope Gangloff's Portraits

Hope Gangloff's Portraits

Experience the vibrant and insightful portraiture of contemporary artist Hope Gangloff, known for her unique style and captivating subjects.

TikTok
Oil on Linen Restaurant

Oil on Linen Restaurant

Dine amidst art at Oil on Linen, featuring a creative menu by Chef Ted Habiger and stunning installations.

Instagram+1
Lucía Vidales' Foyer Installation

Lucía Vidales' Foyer Installation

Marvel at the massive, layered installation by Lucía Vidales in the museum's foyer, complete with bilingual informational pages.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy world-class contemporary art without breaking the bank! The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission and free parking in its private lot, making it an accessible cultural gem for everyone. Reddit

Plan Your Visit Around Exhibitions

While the museum has a permanent collection, special exhibitions rotate. Check the Kemper Museum's website before your visit to see what's currently on display and plan your experience accordingly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, quiet contemplation
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekdays
Why
Engaging for kids, plus brunch
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Brunch and art before the rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hope Gangloff #hopegangloff #kemperartmuseum #nationalportraitgallery #art #arttok #artreview #artlessons #artlessons #contemporaryart #portraiture #femaleartist #greenscreen
@theartrevival
12.5K likes • 122.2K views

🎯 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy world-class art without cost! Admission and parking are free. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🍽️ Dine at Oil on Linen

Experience a creative menu by Chef Ted Habiger in a beautiful art-filled setting. Instagram+1 :forkandknife:

📍Oil on Linen / Kansas City, Missouri Tucked inside the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is Oil on Linen, which features a rotating menu by Chef Ted Habiger (Room 39) that reflects the museum’s exhibition calendar. The space is meticulously designed with art from international-acclaimed artists, including floor-to-ceiling installation of over 100 paintings entitled “History of Art” by Frederick ...
kansascitydaily
923 likes • 65.9K views
@kansascitybucketlist 🎨✨ Art + food = the perfect Kansas City day! 🌿 The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art (always free admission!) is home to Oil on Linen, a stunning restaurant where sunlight pours in by day and stars shine through by night. Helmed by Chef Ted Habiger—yes, a 3x James Beard Foundation Outstanding Chef Award nominee—the menu is uniquely inspired by the museum’s rotating exhibits,...
visit.the.midwest
6 likes • 547 views

✍️ Join an Open Drawing Session

Get your creative juices flowing with relaxing and helpful drawing sessions. Instagram :pencil2:

📱 Check Exhibition Schedule

See what's new! Visit their website to know current and upcoming exhibitions. Reddit :computer:

No Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, a arte vai além das galerias. O restaurante Oil on Linen oferece um cardápio criativo que harmoniza sabores frescos com o clima inspirador do museu. Entre uma exposição e outra, aproveite para saborear pratos que são verdadeiras obras de arte no prato — cultura e gastronomia lado a lado em Kansas City. #viajarcomflaviogeo #livethejourney #nomadlifestyle #luxur...
flaviogeo
197 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy world-class art without cost! Admission and parking are free. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🍽️ Dine at Oil on Linen

Experience a creative menu by Chef Ted Habiger in a beautiful art-filled setting. Instagram+1 :forkandknife:

✍️ Join an Open Drawing Session

Get your creative juices flowing with relaxing and helpful drawing sessions. Instagram :pencil2:

📱 Check Exhibition Schedule

See what's new! Visit their website to know current and upcoming exhibitions. Reddit :computer:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Local Sculptures

After your visit, take a walk to see nearby metal and ceramic sculptures. Reddit :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art for its free admission and parking, making it an accessible cultural gem. The collection is described as powerful and brilliant, offering diverse perspectives through challenging contemporary art. While some mention rotation cycles can affect the amount of art visible, the on-site restaurant and surrounding sculptures offer additional enjoyment.

"A small but powerful museum filled with brilliant work from talented artists capturing life from differing perspectives that can be tragic to amusing all in a contemporary way. A must - see. Free admission, free parking in a private lot and handicapped accessible."

Daffodil Mama

"A really enjoyable contemporary art museum with a variety of different types of installations.
I enjoyed the audio/visual exhibits they had, as well as the artwork by Lucía Vidales. Her installation in the foyer is massive and there are so many layers to it. I appreciated the mini scavenger hunt they had to go along with the painting, as well as the informational page written in both Spanish and English."

S Vance

"What are you waiting for? Beautiful building, contemporary art, and it's free! Free parking too! Great way to spend a quiet afternoon.❤️"

J Flummy

What People Like

Free admission and parking
Powerful and diverse art
Challenging contemporary works

What People Dislike

Rotation cycles can limit art

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is easily accessible. It offers free parking in its private lot, making it convenient for those driving. Public transportation options are also available within Kansas City. Reddit

Yes, the museum provides free parking in its private lot, which is a significant perk for visitors. Reddit

Yes, the museum is handicapped accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests. Reddit

Driving and utilizing the free parking is a popular choice. For those who prefer not to drive, checking local public transport routes is recommended. Reddit

The museum is a well-known landmark in Kansas City, and its location is generally easy to find using GPS or mapping applications. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission, making it a fantastic and budget-friendly cultural experience. InstagramReddit

Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. Reddit

Typically, special exhibitions at the Kemper Museum are also free to the public, aligning with their commitment to accessibility. Instagram

Museums often have specific closing days. It's crucial to verify the Kemper Museum's operating schedule on their website to avoid disappointment. Reddit

As of current information, there are no timed entry requirements, but it's always wise to check their official site for any changes. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

The Kemper Museum showcases challenging contemporary art, including paintings, installations, and audio-visual exhibits, with a focus on diverse perspectives. TikTokReddit

While specific interactive exhibits change, the museum often features engaging displays, like the scavenger hunt for Lucía Vidales' painting, that encourage visitor participation. Reddit

Yes, children can be enthralled by the art. The museum offers a stimulating environment, and the restaurant can be a hit with younger visitors too. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's best to check signage or ask staff. TikTok

Information on guided tours is not widely publicized, but the museum's layout and informative panels often provide a rich self-guided experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum features Oil on Linen, a restaurant with a creative menu by Chef Ted Habiger, offering a unique dining experience within the museum. Instagram+1

Oil on Linen offers a creative menu that reflects the museum's exhibitions, focusing on fresh flavors and artistic presentation. Instagram

Brunch is available at Oil on Linen and is often highlighted as a great option, especially for weekend visits or family outings. Reddit

While specific menu details aren't always listed, Chef Ted Habiger's focus on fresh ingredients suggests a likelihood of accommodating various dietary needs. It's best to inquire directly. Instagram

The restaurant offers a high-quality dining experience with a creative menu. While prices aren't explicitly stated as budget-friendly, the quality and ambiance suggest a worthwhile culinary experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The foyer with Lucía Vidales' installation and the art-filled interior of the Oil on Linen restaurant offer visually striking backdrops for photos. Instagram+1

Generally, flash photography is discouraged to protect the artwork. Always check for specific signage or ask museum staff for guidance. TikTok

Personal photography is usually allowed, but commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Sharing on social media is common. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, especially for indoor shots. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively. TikTok

Look for large-scale installations, vibrant paintings, and unique sculptural pieces. The rotating exhibitions often provide fresh, photogenic content. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art can be a surprisingly engaging experience for families. A 12-year-old visitor was reportedly enthralled by every canvas, film, and sculpture, indicating that the art can capture young imaginations. Reddit The museum's free admission and parking make it an affordable outing for families looking for cultural enrichment. Reddit

Consider visiting on a summer weekday when the museum is less crowded, allowing children more space to explore. The Oil on Linen restaurant is also a hit with younger visitors, particularly for its brunch offerings and the unique dining environment. Reddit Encourage your children to look for details, colors, and stories within the artwork, turning the visit into a fun discovery mission.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is an absolute must-visit. Free admission means you can immerse yourself in contemporary art without spending a dime on entry fees. InstagramReddit This makes it an excellent option for those looking to experience Kansas City's cultural offerings affordably.

Pair your visit with a picnic lunch or explore affordable dining options nearby if you're looking to save further on food. However, if you're willing to splurge a little, the Oil on Linen restaurant offers a unique experience that many find worthwhile, even on a budget, given its artistic ambiance and quality. Instagram+1 The free parking also eliminates another common travel expense. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Critics

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art offers a curated selection of challenging contemporary works that are sure to pique the interest of serious art lovers. The museum's focus on mid-20th century to present-day art ensures a dynamic and relevant collection. TikTokReddit

Pay close attention to the rotating special exhibitions, which often feature significant contemporary artists and provide fresh perspectives. The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse voices, such as Hope Gangloff and Lucía Vidales, offers ample material for critical appreciation and discussion. TikTokReddit

Don't overlook the Oil on Linen restaurant, where the culinary arts are presented with the same thoughtful curation as the visual arts. It's an opportunity to experience how different artistic disciplines can inform and enhance one another. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Contemporary Art at the Kemper

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is dedicated to showcasing art from the mid-20th century to the present day. Its collection and rotating exhibitions aim to challenge viewers and spark dialogue about current cultural and social issues. Visitors can expect a diverse range of media, from painting and sculpture to video and installation art. TikTokReddit

Many visitors find the museum's approach to contemporary art to be both accessible and thought-provoking. The inclusion of artists like Hope Gangloff and Lucía Vidales highlights the museum's commitment to featuring significant voices in the contemporary art world. The museum often provides context and information to help visitors engage with the often abstract or conceptual nature of contemporary pieces. TikTokReddit

Beyond the galleries, the Kemper Museum integrates art into its very fabric. The Oil on Linen restaurant is a prime example, where the culinary experience is designed to complement the artistic environment. This holistic approach ensures that art is not just observed but also experienced and savored. Instagram+1

The Culinary Art of Oil on Linen

The Oil on Linen restaurant, located within the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, is more than just a place to eat; it's an extension of the museum's artistic vision. Helmed by the acclaimed Chef Ted Habiger, the restaurant offers a menu that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The culinary creations are designed to harmonize with the museum's exhibitions, providing a unique gastronomic journey. Instagram+1

Visitors frequently praise the restaurant for its ambiance and the quality of its food. The menu features fresh ingredients and innovative dishes, making it a destination for both museum-goers and those seeking a refined dining experience. The integration of art into the dining space, with floor-to-ceiling installations and meticulously designed interiors, enhances the overall sensory experience. Instagram+1

Whether you're enjoying brunch on a weekend or a light lunch during a weekday visit, Oil on Linen provides a memorable culinary interlude. It's a testament to how art and food can beautifully intertwine, offering a complete cultural immersion within the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. InstagramReddit

Engaging with Art: Tips from Visitors

Many visitors find that engaging with the art at the Kemper Museum is enhanced by actively participating. Open drawing sessions are highlighted as a particularly relaxing and creatively stimulating activity, allowing individuals to connect with the art on a more personal level. Instagram

For those interested in deeper understanding, the museum sometimes provides supplementary materials. For instance, the informational pages accompanying Lucía Vidales' installation, written in both Spanish and English, demonstrate an effort to make the art accessible to a wider audience. This approach encourages visitors to explore the layers and narratives within each piece. Reddit

Beyond the museum walls, the surrounding area also offers artistic discoveries. A walk around the block can reveal local metal and ceramic sculptures, extending the artistic exploration beyond the museum's immediate collection and enriching the overall experience of the Kansas City art scene. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2