Steamboat Arabia Museum

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Steamboat Arabia Museum

400 Grand Blvd.,Kansas City, MO 64106816.471.4030www.1856.com

The Missouri River was infamously dubbed “too thick to drink and too thin to plow,” making its waters something of a burial ground for steamers in a day and age when the Great Missouri was the most effective means of travel to the West. Come discover more than 200 pounds of buried treasure that has been meticulously excavated from one such ship, the Steamboat Arabia!

Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10:00-5:40 (last tour begins at 4:00); Sunday, Noon-5:00 (Last tour begins at 3:30). Guided tours are available every 30 minutes, on the hour and half-hour.

Admission: $14.50/adults, $13.50/seniors, 45.50/children (4-12), Free/3 and under

Hot Tips

• Handicap & stroller accessible  
• Free parking available  
• Cameras welcome

Before You Go

In the 1800s, one of the most effective means of transportation (for both people and cargo) was the steamboat. Discuss with your children the various means of modern travel, as well as how goods are imported and exported. Check out the museum’s website where you will find a wealth of information to prepare for your visit. You can view a video narrative and read up on the history of the well-regarded Steamboat Arabia, as well as track updates from the preservation lab. The museum recommends reserving at least 90 minutes for your tour, so plan accordingly.

While You’re There

Tours are partially guided, providing you opportunity to ask questions and view the exhibits at your own pace. Your guide will provide a brief overview and escort you to the Paddlewheel Theater where you will view a documentary about Steamboat Arabia’s history. Following that, you can view the cargo gallery that houses a vast (and growing) collection of goods, known as “King Tut’s Tomb of the Missouri River.” Observe the latest work in the preservation lab and stroll along the 171-foot-long replicated deck that houses the original engine, boilers, anchor and paddle wheel support timbers.

After You’re Gone

The Steamboat Arabia Museum includes a gift shop and food service area. Purchase a memento to remember your visit and enjoy a snack in the atrium, all while viewing the Steamboat Arabia’s giant paddle wheel  turning in a pool of water. Neighboring gift shops flank both sides of the museum, and the City Market is in the museum’s backyard.  Coupling a trip to the City Market and the Steamboat Arabia Museum makes for a day full of fun.  Check out KC Parent’s website for upcoming local festivals that celebrate the rich history of the 1850s and 1860s in Kansas City, as well.

Lauren Greenlee grew up going to Steamboat Arabia and now enjoys taking her children to one of her favorite local museums. She resides in Olathe with her husband and two sons.