Union Station Kansas City is a restored 1914 railway terminal at 30 W. Pershing Road, now home to museums, exhibits, restaurants and live entertainment. Start in the Grand Hall: its 95-foot ceiling, three large chandeliers and six-foot clock make the building itself a highlight. You can also visit Science City, the planetarium, the miniature train exhibit or a changing exhibition. The station remains an active rail stop, and the building is free to explore, though some attractions charge admission.
A railway terminal restored
Union Station opened in 1914 as a major railway terminal. Its Beaux-Arts design and grand interior were made to impress passengers arriving in Kansas City. The station continued to serve rail travel for decades, then closed in the 1980s as passenger traffic declined. A major restoration returned the building to public use, and it reopened in 1999.
Today, Amtrak trains still stop at the station. The building also holds museums, restaurants, shops, theatres and attractions, so you can visit without taking a train. Entry to the station itself is free; individual attractions may charge admission.
Look up in the Grand Hall
The Grand Hall is the clearest place to appreciate the station’s scale. Its ceiling rises 95 feet above the floor. Three chandeliers, each weighing about 3,500 pounds, hang overhead, while a six-foot clock marks the central arch. Take time to look across the room and notice how the restored historic interior contrasts with the activity of a working station.
The building also has exhibition spaces and corridors displaying historic plans. Depending on what is on during your visit, you may find a temporary exhibition alongside the station’s permanent attractions. These displays change, so check the event and exhibition calendar before setting out.
Science, trains and performances
Science City is an interactive science centre inside Union Station, with hands-on exhibits for children and other curious visitors. Its activities cover subjects including physics, biology, engineering, health and water. Specific exhibits can change, so consult the current schedule if you have a particular one in mind.
The station also has a planetarium, a movie theatre with a large screen, and a miniature train exhibit. City Stage Theatre hosts live performances. With several attractions under one roof, you can shape the visit around your interests: spend time with the architecture, choose one paid exhibition, or plan a longer family outing around Science City.
Plan your stop
Union Station is at 30 W. Pershing Road, close to the National WWI Museum and Memorial. On-site restaurants and cafés make it possible to pause for a meal or coffee between exhibits. Harvey’s is on the upper level, with a view into the Grand Hall; Pierpont’s is another restaurant inside the station.
The building can draw crowds during special events, including seasonal holiday programming. A weekday or quieter period can give you more room to look around. If your priority is a particular exhibition, film or performance, check what is scheduled before you go, since the programme changes.
FAQ
Is Union Station Kansas City free to enter?
The station building is free to enter and explore. Some attractions and exhibitions inside charge admission.
What can you see inside Union Station Kansas City?
The Grand Hall, Science City, a planetarium, a miniature train exhibit, changing exhibitions and a movie theatre are among the attractions. The station also has restaurants, shops and live entertainment.
How long should you spend at Union Station Kansas City?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a visit, especially if you plan to explore Science City or more than one attraction.
Is Union Station Kansas City still a working train station?
Yes. Amtrak trains still stop at Union Station.
