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Amazing Free Museums in Kansas City
Kansas City has many exciting venues that provide entertainment for all ages. If you plan on visiting Kansas City, Missouri in the near future, you will find that there is no shortage of museums.
Kansas City has more than 55 museums. Fortunately, you can visit many of these museums without breaking the bank. There are several museums in the city that offer free admission. Some of the local museums also have free parking. If you want to plan a fun and educational trip, here is a look at some of the best free museums in Kansas City, Missouri.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Many locals consider this to be a Kansas City staple. Located at 4525 Oak Street, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is hard to miss. It has four 18-foot statues in the shape of a shuttlecock on the front lawn. If two giants stroll up wanting to play a game of badminton, this museum is ready.
When you walk into the museum, you are instantly transported back in time. Many exhibits and pieces of artwork have been collected for over 5,000 years. As you walk through the large museum, you get to see an up close and personal look at how art has changed throughout the centuries.
There are a couple of special exhibits that charge a small fee. However, visitors can walk through the rest of the art museum for free. You can also request a tour, or you can download a free app that helps to explain each exhibit as you walk through it.
The Museum of Kansas City
If you are looking for a fun way to learn about the history of Kansas City, Missouri, The Museum of Kansas City is a must-see destination. The museum is housed in a historic Beaux Arts-style mansion called the Corinthian Hall that was built in 1910 by Robert A. Long. In 2017, the mansion underwent a drastic restoration and renovation project that restored every inch of the home to its original pristine condition while still keeping the historic architecture intact.
The museum is three stories tall, and every floor beautifully illustrates a distinct part of Kansas City history, dating all the way back to Native American tribes that originally lived there. After spending hours learning about the intricate history of the area, you can go down to the basement of the mansion and visit the vintage soda shop to get a hand-scooped milkshake.
The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank
Money has been the core part of civilization for centuries. It has started wars, mended relationships, and caused people to lose control. While some might not realize it, money has been at the center of every part of history.
The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank is full of fun facts and interactive displays. From elementary students to older adults, there is something for everyone at the Money Museum. You can learn about inflation or take a closer look at US currency throughout the years. The museum provides hours of entertainment.
This is a federal building, so they do have certain safety protocols in place. Be ready to show a picture ID of yourself and walk through a metal detector when entering. The best part of the Money Museum is that admission is completely free, and they also have free parking close to the facility.
Haskell Cultural Center and Museum
Take a step back in time to learn about Haskell University's rich history. Located on the university's campus, the Haskell Cultural Center and Museum takes its visitors on a journey that starts with the school's inception as a boarding school.
The museum and cultural center also celebrate the area's deep indigenous history. They have a large selection of Native American art and artifacts. Explore the fascinating life of various Native American tribes through portraits collected by Frank Rinehart. If you love learning about Indigenous culture, this is definitely a spot to visit.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Built in 1994, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is a go-to spot for art fans who want to tap into their creative side. This unique museum highlights contemporary art from local and well-known artists. The deeper you go into the museum, the more creative and elaborate the pieces become.
The facility's exterior is just as stunning as the interior. When you first drive up, the equine-shaped building immediately catches your eye. You are then greeted by giant, elaborate statues on the lawn. Most visitors are already enthralled by the artwork before they even step one foot inside the museum.
The art museum offers free parking and free admission. They also host several free events throughout the year. Once a month, they have a community night where they allow you to bring your own art supplies and create your masterpiece while surrounded by inspirational pieces of art.
Kansas City is the Perfect Place for Museum Goers
There is a wide variety of fascinating museums in Kansas City, Missouri. Fortunately, you don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy all of the diverse options that this city has to offer. Whether you would like to learn about the history of the city or you want to explore unique works of art, there is a free museum waiting to be explored.