The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art 🇺🇸

When you visit Kansas City, Missouri, step into world-class culture at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. You will discover an encyclopedic art collection spanning nearly every continent and culture, with notable acclaim for its extensive collection of Asian art. Free to enter, this impressive institution offers you a rich journey through artistic history, housed across two distinct architectural masterpieces.

Start your exploration at the original classic Beaux-Arts building designed by Wight and Wight, which opened in 1933. As you approach, admire its south facade overlooking serene terraces down to Brush Creek, browse the detailed oak leaf grillwork on the doors, and look up at Charles Keck's 23 limestone exterior panels depicting the historic march of civilization across the American West. Then, transition to the modern Bloch Building expansion designed by Steven Holl and Chris McVoy, which opened in 2007.

Honored by Time magazine as a top global architectural marvel, this striking underground facility features five luminous glass pavilion lenses rising above ground. Inside this expanded complex, you can immerse yourself in diverse contemporary art, African art displays, photography galleries, the Isamu Noguchi Sculpture Court, special exhibitions, and the Spencer Art Reference Library before stopping by the museum cafe.

What to see at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

• Extensive collection of Asian art spanning ancient traditions
• The 2007 Bloch Building featuring five striking glass pavilion lenses
• Classic Beaux-Arts main building featuring 23 limestone exterior panels
• Isamu Noguchi Sculpture Court, photography, and contemporary art galleries
• Iconic south facade towering over terraces above Brush Creek

Visiting tips

Take advantage of free admission and visit during extended evening hours on Thursday or Friday when galleries stay open until 9 pm.

How long: 2-4 hours · Best time: Thursday or Friday evening

How to get there & what’s nearby

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is easy to reach on Kansas City’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Kansas City travel guide.