Union Station Kansas City
A magnificent historic train station, Union Station Kansas City offers stunning architecture, engaging exhibits, and a planetarium.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Union Station Kansas City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent historic train station, Union Station Kansas City offers stunning architecture, engaging exhibits, and a planetarium.
"This place was AMAZING!!! It is worthy of a visit by everyone."
Free Exploration Galore
Wander the Grand Hall and explore history exhibits for free! :moneywithwings:
Parking Strategy
First 30 mins free, then $7 for up to 5 hours. Plan accordingly! :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Hall
Main Concourse
Marvel at the stunning architecture and soaring ceilings of this historic train station's heart.
Science City
Second Floor
An interactive science center perfect for kids and curious minds of all ages.
WW1 Liberty Memorial
Outdoor Monument
A poignant tribute to WWI veterans, offering historical insights and impressive scale.
Planetarium Shows
Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium
Experience captivating celestial journeys and educational shows under a dome.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Union Station
Navigating Union Station
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Exploration Galore
Wander the Grand Hall and explore history exhibits for free! :moneywithwings:
Parking Strategy
First 30 mins free, then $7 for up to 5 hours. Plan accordingly! :parking:
Amtrak Train - Experiences/Tips
Kid-Friendly Fun
Science City is a hit for kids, but has a separate admission fee. :child:
Architectural Gem
Don't miss the stunning Neo-Classical architecture and restoration details. :building_construction:
Traveling by train Union Station
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Exploration Galore
Wander the Grand Hall and explore history exhibits for free! :moneywithwings:
Parking Strategy
First 30 mins free, then $7 for up to 5 hours. Plan accordingly! :parking:
Kid-Friendly Fun
Science City is a hit for kids, but has a separate admission fee. :child:
Architectural Gem
Don't miss the stunning Neo-Classical architecture and restoration details. :building_construction:
Check Exhibit Schedules
Temporary exhibits and planetarium shows vary, so check online before you go. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Union Station Kansas City for its breathtaking architecture and rich history, calling it a 'must-see' landmark. The free access to the main hall and historical exhibits is a significant draw, though some find the paid attractions like Science City to be a bit pricey. The station is widely regarded as a family-friendly destination with plenty to explore.
"We had a nice afternoon at Union Station. It had been about 20 years since our last visit and we happened to be there during KC Fringe. We went and visited the museum parts upstairs to learn about the history of the station. We wandered around and saw the Guinness World Record exhibit and we went to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory where we took advantage of their buy 5 get 1 free for their truffles."
S Vance
"Union Station. It is one of the greatest buildings ever built. I've loved this place since I was a kid. One of the greatest building marvels of its time. With a rich history from traveling to the Gangster era it's a must see if your visiting Kansas City Missouri 😇"
Jeffrey Speight
"This place was AMAZING!!! It is worthy of a visit by everyone. The place is generally free - that's why you pay for parking. The first 30 minutes are free. Then you pay $7 for up to 5 hours. It's a but of change after that.
The place was big. These are free areas that tells you about trains and you get to walk the large hall. At the front of the place is 3 floors that is about the building and how it was build and restored. That part is free. There's 4 restaurants in there, 2 areas you have to pay for the kids (an outdoor play area, and kids science museum), a movie theater, and a free planetarium. There's also a small interacted science museum that has optical illusions. It was $18 per person. And, of course, a gift shop.
There's also an Amtrak that runs to St. Louis. So yes, there's a REAL train there too. And a post office. The architecture is Wonderful-Amazing-Superb!!! The restoration is explained on the 3rd floor of the museum. Very interesting. There's also a part about a WW1 monument that's outside. It's free too.
Overall, it's a place for the entire family, couples and older ones. No pets allowed, but they wouldn't get much out of it anyway. A must see!!
So, why travel outside of the United States? wisper no passport."
Dee Hale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Union Station is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available (first 30 minutes free, then paid). It's also a major Amtrak stop, making it convenient for train travelers. Public bus routes also serve the station.
Yes, several Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) bus routes stop directly at Union Station, making it a convenient option for those relying on public transit.
Traveling by train via Amtrak is an exciting option for kids, as they get to experience a real train. Driving is also convenient, with parking available.
Depending on your starting point downtown, it's a moderate walk. The Freight Bridge offers a scenic pedestrian route connecting the station to areas north of the river.
Yes, Union Station offers parking facilities. The first 30 minutes are free, and then there's a fee for longer stays, with rates varying based on duration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main hall and historical exhibits at Union Station are generally free to explore. However, attractions like Science City, the Extreme Screen Theatre, and special exhibits have separate admission fees.
Union Station's general hours are typically from 10 AM to 5 PM daily, but specific attraction hours may vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating times for each exhibit.
Entry to the main concourse and historical displays is free. Paid attractions like Science City are around $18 per person, and parking fees apply after the first 30 minutes.
For general entry to the main areas, no advance booking is required. However, for popular exhibits, planetarium shows, or Science City, it's advisable to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak times.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or military personnel for specific attractions like Science City. Check the Union Station website or inquire at the ticket counter for current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Union Station is a hub of activity! Explore Science City, catch a movie at the Extreme Screen Theatre, visit the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, learn about the station's history, and enjoy temporary exhibits.
Absolutely! Science City is a major draw for children, offering interactive exhibits. The planetarium and historical displays can also be engaging for various age groups.
The Grand Hall's architecture is a must-see. Visitors also rave about the historical exhibits detailing the station's past and the interactive displays at Science City.
Yes, Union Station is an active Amtrak station, so you can see trains arriving and departing. There are also exhibits that delve into the history of rail travel.
Yes, Union Station features several dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, including the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.
📸 📸 Photography
The Grand Hall with its soaring ceilings and intricate details is a prime photo spot. The exterior architecture and the WW1 Liberty Memorial also offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside Union Station. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits or during planetarium shows.
You can photograph the trains from the public areas of the station. Be mindful of any restricted zones or active platforms for safety reasons.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around public transportation hubs like Union Station due to security regulations. Always check local ordinances and station policies.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting. However, the grandeur of the Grand Hall is impressive at any time, and special evening events can create unique photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exploring the Grand Hall and historical exhibits is free, consider budgeting for Science City and any special temporary exhibits. The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is also a sweet treat for the kids. Parking fees apply after the initial free period, so factor that into your planning.
💰 Budget Travelers
Parking has a free initial period, and while paid attractions exist, you can easily spend a good amount of time enjoying the free areas. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the vicinity or grab a more affordable snack from a cafe rather than a full-service restaurant to keep costs down.
💑 Couples
Consider catching a show at the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium for a unique and awe-inspiring date night experience. The station's proximity to other Kansas City attractions also makes it a great starting or ending point for a romantic day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the station's rich history, from its role in passenger transport to its significance during wartime. The WW1 Liberty Memorial located just outside the station is a powerful monument that adds another layer of historical depth to the visit. Learning about the station's past truly enhances the appreciation for its current state.
For those interested in the restoration process, exhibits on the third floor offer fascinating insights into the meticulous work involved in bringing Union Station back to its former glory. This blend of active transit hub and historical monument makes Union Station a unique destination.
Interactive Fun at Science City
Popular attractions include the Build-It Workshop, where kids can design and test their own creations, and the Dino Dig, offering a chance to uncover ancient fossils. The Global Lab provides opportunities for experimentation with various scientific principles, while the Kidopolis area is specifically tailored for younger children to explore and learn through play.
While Science City offers an incredible educational experience, it's important to note that it requires a separate admission fee. Many visitors find the cost well worth it for the hours of engaging and educational fun it provides, making it a highlight for families visiting Union Station.
Experiencing the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium
Shows often cover topics like the formation of stars, the exploration of our solar system, and the vastness of the universe. It's a fantastic way to learn about astronomy in an engaging and visually spectacular environment. The planetarium is a popular attraction, and shows can fill up, so booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for weekend visits or during school holidays.
Beyond scheduled shows, the planetarium can also be a venue for special events, making it a unique spot for a memorable experience. The combination of educational content and awe-inspiring visuals makes a visit to the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium a truly stellar experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit