Union Station Kansas City – Kansas City Attraction Guide

Welcome to Union Station Kansas City

Step into a grand tapestry of history and modern excitement at Union Station Kansas City, a 1914 Beaux-Arts masterpiece in the heart of downtown, now a vibrant hub for science, culture, and entertainment. Once the nation’s second-busiest train station, this restored landmark houses Science City, a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and rotating exhibits, alongside dining and events like the Holiday Reflections (November-December 2025). Marvel at its 95-foot ceilings, massive chandeliers, and historic tales of travelers, while exploring attractions like the Model Train Gallery or catching a show at Regnier Extreme Screen. Perfect for families sparking STEM curiosity, history buffs tracing rail legacies, or travelers seeking a multifaceted KC experience, plan 3-4 hours to dive in. For easy exploration, especially for those needing Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental, contact KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098), a veteran-owned business offering reliable scooters with delivery to hotels and attractions.

Contact Details

Address: 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Phone: (816) 460-2000
Website: https://www.unionstation.org/

A Glimpse into History

Union Station Kansas City opened on October 30, 1914, as a $6 million Beaux-Arts marvel designed by Jarvis Hunt, handling 678,000 passengers in its 1917 peak as the nation’s second-busiest rail hub. It welcomed presidents, WWII troops, and stars like Charlie Chaplin before declining by the 1970s, closing in 1985. A 1996 bistate tax sparked a $250 million restoration, reopening it in 1999 as a nonprofit cultural center. By 2025, it hosts 2 million visitors annually, with Science City (1999), Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, and Regnier Extreme Screen, plus exhibits like Titanic: The Exhibition (through December 2025). Its 850,000-square-foot grandeur, including the 95-foot Grand Hall, anchors KC’s downtown revival, blending rail heritage with modern vibrancy.

What Makes It Special

Union Station Kansas City captivates with its historic splendor and diverse attractions:

Science City: Over 300 interactive STEM exhibits, from Sky Bike to maker labs, sparking curiosity for all ages.
Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium: 216-seat dome with cosmic shows like Stargaze Kansas City, updated with 2025 James Webb imagery.
Regnier Extreme Screen: Five-story IMAX theater screening documentaries and blockbusters like JAWS in immersive glory.
Grand Hall Ambiance: 95-foot ceilings, three 3,500-pound chandeliers, and historic plaques narrating rail stories.
Events & Exhibits: Holiday Reflections (November-December 2025) with model trains, plus Titanic: The Exhibition for artifact-driven storytelling.

Plan Your Visit

Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Science City Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m.; closed Mondays (except holidays). Evening events vary (e.g., Holiday Reflections, 5-8 p.m.).
Admission: Station free; Science City $17 adults/$15 youth (3-12); Planetarium/IMAX combos $20-25; Titanic exhibit $25 adults/$18 youth. Buy online for discounts.
Accessibility: ADA-compliant with ramps, elevators, wide paths, and accessible restrooms; free wheelchairs at guest services; contact for ASL or sensory-friendly options.
Tips: Start with Grand Hall; allow 3-4 hours for multiple attractions. Pair with Harvey’s dining. Check unionstation.org for 2025 events like Titanic. Reopens September 13, 2025, post-maintenance.
Getting There: Free parking in Union Station garage; KC Streetcar to Union Station stop; KCATA bus #229 to Pershing Rd.
Mobility: Recommend KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental to navigate with ease.

Where to Stay Nearby

Stay near Union Station in downtown for seamless access:

Loews Kansas City Hotel (0.5 miles): Modern luxury ($200-300/night) with skyline views and indoor pool—upscale comfort.
The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center (0.3 miles): Wellness-focused ($180-250/night) with rain showers—family-friendly.
Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center (0.3 miles): Modern mid-range ($150-220/night) with fitness center—great for groups.
Crossroads Hotel Kansas City (0.8 miles): Chic boutique ($180-250/night) with rooftop bar—artsy vibe. Note: Many hotels partner with KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for scooter delivery, perfect for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental.

More to Explore Nearby

Enhance your Union Station visit with these downtown gems:

Science City (on-site): Hands-on STEM exhibits—scientific adventure.
National WWI Museum and Memorial (0.2 miles): Immersive history and Liberty Tower views—thoughtful contrast.
Power & Light District (0.5 miles): Nightlife with bars and concerts—lively evening follow-up.
Museum of Illusions (on-site): Optical tricks and interactive fun—mind-bending complement. Accessibility Tip: Use KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) for Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental to explore comfortably.

Why You’ll Love Union Station Kansas City

Union Station Kansas City is a grand stage where 1914’s chandeliers meet Science City’s sparks, weaving rail history with modern marvels—perfect for families exploring Sky Bike, history buffs tracing troop trains, or travelers catching Titanic tales (through December 2025). From planetarium stars to Holiday Reflections’ festive glow (November 2025), it’s a dynamic hub slotting into a downtown day with WWI depth or Power & Light’s buzz. Its free Grand Hall and accessible design welcome all to connect past and present. Share your chandelier selfie on social and keep exploring. No matter your mobility needs, KC Mobility Scooter Rentals LLC (www.kcmobilityscooterrentals.com, 913-775-1098) ensures a seamless visit with Mobility Scooter Rental Kansas City or Kansas City Mobility Scooter Rental—book now for a memorable adventure.