Add a Little Junket to Your Museum Jaunt

Kansas City is home to many well respected museums, each popular with visitors to the city and each residing in a neighborhood with additional adventures to include on your itinerary. 

After a visit to the world-renowned Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, visit the nearby Kauffman Memorial Gardens (4800 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, MO). Kauffman Memorial Gardens is one of the most beautiful free attractions in Kansas City. The garden is a collaboration between the Kauffman Foundation and Powell Gardens. Powell Gardens manages the garden itself, with all of the annuals and many of the perennial plants grown at the Powell Gardens greenhouses.

The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial is one of the most respected history museums in the nation and it draws visitors from around the world. Most visitors know that it is near the attractions at Union Station and Crown Center, but another great nearby attraction is the free Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank (1 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.881.2683). Interactive exhibits explore banking, basic economics and the financial policies that affect your family. Visitors take home a FREE souvenir bag of shredded cash. 

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence is one of only 13 presidential libraries in the nation. The museum is a must-see on a trip to Kansas City. Be sure also to visit the Independence Square for a sweet treat at Clinton’s Soda Fountain, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and one of the first places where young Harry Truman worked as a boy.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures was recently renovated, offering fresh new exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. After a visit, head to the nearby Country Club Plaza and explore the shops and restaurants. Or drive over to Loose Park at 51st & Wornall to enjoy the exquisite rose garden, duck pond, sprayground and playground.

The Arabia Steamboat Museum in the City Market tells the story of recovered buried treasure. City Market is the city’s largest farmers market (especially on weekends in the spring and summer) and is also home to a variety of eclectic restaurants, bakeries and shops. 

Legoland Discovery Center at Crown Center is a favorite hands-on attraction for kids. With theme park style rides, a 4D Cinema, and a wide variety of play areas, this is a favorite for Lego fans. Next door, visit Sea Life Aquarium or walk over to the Hallmark Visitor’s Center and Kaleidoscope. Crown Center also offers a variety of great options for some lunch and shopping. Take in a show at the Coterie or split a sundae at Sheridan’s.