Penn Valley Park
Penn Valley Park: Home to the National WWI Museum & Memorial, offering history, stunning city views, and recreational spaces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Penn Valley Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Penn Valley Park: Home to the National WWI Museum & Memorial, offering history, stunning city views, and recreational spaces.
"One of the best museums I've been to, with amazing views and a deep dive into history."
🚗 Traffic Alert!
New stop signs at Wyandotte & Memorial Drive. Drive cautiously!
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll need 2-5 hours for the WWI Museum. Don't rush!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Center of Penn Valley Park
Immerse yourself in history with compelling exhibits, artifacts, and immersive experiences detailing World War I.
Liberty Memorial Tower Viewpoint
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Ascend for breathtaking panoramic views of Kansas City, offering a stunning perspective of the city skyline.
The Scout Statue
Overlooking the Missouri River
Admire this iconic statue of a Native American warrior on horseback, a significant piece of local art and history.
Hickory Run State Park
Carbon County, PA (Note: This seems to be a misattribution from the TikTok video, as Penn Valley Park is in Kansas City. Hickory Run is a separate location.)
Discover waterfalls and unique geological formations in this scenic Pennsylvania park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Penn Valley Park
Navigating Penn Valley Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Traffic Alert!
New stop signs at Wyandotte & Memorial Drive. Drive cautiously!
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll need 2-5 hours for the WWI Museum. Don't rush!
📸 Panoramic Views
The Liberty Memorial Tower offers stunning Kansas City vistas.
🎭 Immersive Exhibits
WWI Museum uses audio, video, and reading for all learning styles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Traffic Alert!
New stop signs at Wyandotte & Memorial Drive. Drive cautiously!
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll need 2-5 hours for the WWI Museum. Don't rush!
📸 Panoramic Views
The Liberty Memorial Tower offers stunning Kansas City vistas.
🎭 Immersive Exhibits
WWI Museum uses audio, video, and reading for all learning styles.
👟 Comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the museum and park. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Penn Valley Park, especially the National WWI Museum and Memorial, for its immersive historical exhibits and the breathtaking panoramic views from the Liberty Memorial Tower. The park's amenities and the iconic 'The Scout' statue also receive positive mentions, making it a well-rounded destination for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.
"I am a veteran of the 7th ID and several other patches. It was awesome to see uniforms, weapons, and gear that the WW1 soldiers used. The museum was very organized and interesting. I was in the area on a business trip and wished I had more time to spend at the museum and tower. I spent about two hours at the museum and a half hour at the tower. I would go back to view more videos and read more about the exhibits."
Joshua Cooper
"One of the best museums I've been to. They do a great job presenting the information in various ways. If you don't like to read, they have audio and video presentations (some of which do a great job immersing you in the story). And if you like reading all the notes around each exhibit, those are there for you too."
Christiaan Osborn
"Beautiful place. Wonderful view and best view of kansas city. A best place for person who loves history and a panoramic view .
In nutshell, its a place where you learn the history and various aspect about world War and stories of people who were in it.And at the same time you if you go to the top of liberty memorial tower you can see the present best best of Kansas city."
bipashwi uprety
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Penn Valley Park is easily accessible by car in Kansas City, MO. It's located near downtown. Be mindful of the recent change from yield to stop signs at Wyandotte and Memorial Drive for smoother navigation.
Yes, parking is available within Penn Valley Park, particularly near the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Some areas may have time limits, so check signage.
Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) buses serve routes near Penn Valley Park. Check their schedule for the most convenient stops and routes.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is generally accessible. Paved paths throughout the park offer easier navigation for those with mobility challenges.
For the best views, head towards the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The Liberty Memorial Tower offers the most prominent panoramic city views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Penn Valley Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, the National WWI Museum and Memorial requires paid admission.
Ticket prices for the National WWI Museum and Memorial vary. It's best to check their official website for current admission fees and any potential discounts.
The park grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. The National WWI Museum and Memorial has specific operating hours, which can be found on their website. It's advisable to confirm hours before your visit.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance for the National WWI Museum and Memorial is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons.
The museum occasionally offers special promotions or free admission days. Check their website or social media for announcements regarding discounts or free entry opportunities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Penn Valley Park offers various amenities including tennis courts, baseball fields, and skateboarding venues. It's also a great place for a scenic walk or enjoying the views.
Most visitors spend at least 2-3 hours at the National WWI Museum and Memorial to fully appreciate the exhibits. Some dedicate up to five hours to explore everything.
The museum offers diverse ways to learn, including reading exhibits, audio guides, and immersive video presentations. Choose what suits your learning style best.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial offers guided tours. Check their schedule and booking information on their official website.
The Liberty Memorial Tower offers incredible cityscapes. The area around 'The Scout' statue and the museum's exterior also provide great photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The National WWI Museum and Memorial has a cafe on-site, offering refreshments and light meals. For more options, you'll find numerous restaurants in the surrounding Kansas City area.
Picnicking is generally allowed in public parks like Penn Valley. However, check specific park regulations regarding food and alcohol consumption, especially near the museum.
The museum cafe typically offers sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient option for a quick bite while visiting the museum.
Yes, Kansas City has a wide array of family-friendly restaurants. Areas like the Crossroads Arts District and the Power & Light District offer diverse choices.
Penn Valley Park is a great spot for a picnic. Find a scenic spot on the grounds to enjoy your meal with a view of the city or the memorial.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the museum's architecture is striking any time.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check with park management.
The Liberty Memorial Tower, the sweeping views from the tower, 'The Scout' statue, and the grand facade of the WWI Museum are prime photography locations.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use, but flash photography is often prohibited to protect artifacts. Check specific exhibit guidelines.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the memorial and city views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots from the tower. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the museum, the park's open spaces are perfect for kids to run around, and the skateboarding venue can be a hit with teens. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable outing. Remember to check the museum's website for any family-specific programming or events.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to ascend the Liberty Memorial Tower for a historical perspective on Kansas City itself, and take time to appreciate 'The Scout' statue, which adds another layer to the area's historical narrative. Allow ample time to fully absorb the rich historical context that Penn Valley Park provides.
📸 Photographers
The grand architecture of the National WWI Museum and Memorial itself is also a compelling subject. Capture the iconic 'The Scout' statue with its historical significance, or find scenic spots throughout the park for landscape and lifestyle photography. Be mindful of lighting conditions and consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both wide vistas and intricate details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The National WWI Museum and Memorial: A Deep Dive
Beyond the main exhibition halls, the Liberty Memorial Tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of Kansas City. Ascending the tower provides a unique perspective on the city's layout and a moment of reflection on the sacrifices made during the war. The museum also features special exhibitions and events throughout the year, so checking their schedule before your visit is recommended.
Many visitors recommend allocating at least two to five hours for a thorough exploration of the museum and tower. The sheer volume of information and the emotional weight of the exhibits mean that rushing through can diminish the experience. Consider prioritizing sections that interest you most if time is limited, or plan for a return visit to see everything.
Exploring Penn Valley Park's Amenities
The park's rolling hills and open spaces are also ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, or simply relaxing outdoors. The scenic pathways offer pleasant routes for walking, and the open areas are perfect for picnics or enjoying a sunny afternoon. The presence of these varied amenities ensures that Penn Valley Park caters to a wide range of visitors, from history buffs to active families.
It's important to note recent changes in traffic management within the park. Yield signs at Wyandotte and Memorial Drive have been replaced with stop signs. Travelers should be aware of this signage change to ensure safe navigation through the park.
The Significance of 'The Scout' Statue
The statue's presence in Penn Valley Park is a testament to the area's historical narrative. It serves as a visual reminder of the diverse peoples who have inhabited and shaped the Kansas City landscape. The statue's thoughtful design and its commanding position offer a moment of contemplation for visitors, inviting them to reflect on the stories and cultures it represents.
'The Scout' is not only an artistic masterpiece but also a significant cultural marker. Its enduring appeal draws visitors who appreciate its historical context and its aesthetic beauty, making it a must-see element of the Penn Valley Park experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit