Union Station is one of those buildings that is worth entering even before you decide what you want to do there. The enormous historic railway station combines impressive architecture with exhibitions, attractions and a useful central location.
Look at the building first
Before rushing toward a ticket counter, spend a few minutes looking around the main hall. The scale and restored architectural details recall an era when railway stations were designed as civic landmarks.
More than a station
Modern Union Station hosts changing exhibitions and several visitor attractions. What is available can vary, so check the current program if a particular exhibition is important to you.
A useful sightseeing hub
The station sits close to the National WWI Museum and Memorial and connects naturally with other central Kansas City areas. It can therefore become part of a larger day rather than a standalone excursion.
Railway history still matters
Even if you do not spend hours inside, the building helps tell the story of Kansas City’s growth as a transportation hub.
I would include Union Station partly because it asks very little of you. Walk in, admire the space, explore whatever interests you and continue through the city. Sometimes a great building is enough of an attraction on its own.