As a tour guide, I’m always surprised by how many residents haven’t explored some of our city’s coolest places. Let’s delve into a few local favorites that often get overlooked! If you are new here, WELCOME!
Union Station: A Treasure Trove of History
The Union station in Kansas City is filled with all sorts of nooks and crannies that are often overlooked. There is so much history on display there. I definitely encourage you to go just for the joy of exploration
Did you know that Harvey’s restaurant in the middle used to be the ticket windows?
If you take the elevator to floor 2 you will see a history timeline of the Union station from where it began through the remodel. Not to mention the bird’s eye view of the grand hall and seeing the ceiling a bit closer, which is gorgeous.
In the hallways on both the right and left side of the building you will find a pictorial of the history of Union station in Kansas City on one side, and the other side is a history of the postal service which is still located inside Union station.
And that is just the tip of the iceberg. A lot of my walking tours do include a stop at Union station and if you’re ever interested, I would be happy to show you that.
Steamboat Arabia: A Time Capsule Emerges
One of the most amazing histories and family stories of a treasure hunt. The sheer volume of products that was on that boat from shoes to buttons to tools and machines. They have curators on site that you can ask questions about the textiles and more. Many of the family members are on site talking to guest and telling stories.
If you haven’t been in a while it’s worth going back again because you know how vast the collection is.
Sea Life Aquarium: A Midwestern Surprise
Who says you need an ocean to have a great aquarium? Sea Life offers a delightful underwater adventure.
Sea Life aquarium in Kansas City near Crown Center is one of my top choices to visit.
I have to admit I was a bit skeptical about an aquarium in the Midwest and how well it would be done compared to others I have seen.
I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of it all, the variety of fish and animals. It’s very well laid out and very well attended to. I know it’s geared towards kids but I found it just as enjoyable without the kids.
Thomas Hart Benton Home & Studio: A Glimpse into an Artist’s Life
At this location you will find his studio that literally looks like he stepped out for lunch. Paint brushes, models, sculptures everything in mid-stroke simply sitting there as it was. As an artist I love the smell of studio.
Exploring the home itself is a delightful experience. Imagine the lively parties that must have been held here, the fascinating people Benton met and invited to dinner. Not far from Benton’s home is a home that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Benton Moved into his house in 1939 while the Frank Lloyd House was built in 1940. There was an age gap between them, but I often wonder if their paths crossed at some point. A true hidden gem for sure.
I could do a whole entire day all about Thomas Hart Benton. Starting with the home tour, more work can be seen at The Nelson-Atkins Museum, Union station, and of course the big mural at Truman Library, and one at the Kansas City library. His work is everywhere. That to me, would make a cool day tour around KC.
Hope you enjoyed my top picks for Kansas City and thanks for joining my newsletter. More local details and my own tours will be shared once a week. See you soon!
Want to Explore Further?
Interested in a guided tour that takes you to these hidden gems and more? Feel free to reach out – I’d love to show you around our amazing city!
Sincerely,
Sherrie