Renowned for the building's neoclassical architecture and impressive permanent collection of Asian art, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is beloved by Kansas City visitors and locals alike. The museum's Beaux Arts architecture style was inspired by the Cleveland Museum of Art and designed by architects Wight and Wight. A schoolteacher and art lover named Mary Atkins left money for the construction of this museum in 1911, and, though it was originally two separate galleries, the sites merged into one museum in 1983. While the museum is best known and celebrated for its extensive collection of Asian works, especially pieces from imperial China, it also boasts numerous American and European paintings, as well as photography and visiting exhibitions. This site hosts balls, speaker series, and other events year round. Make The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art a centerpiece of your Kansas City vacation itinerary, and find what else is worth visiting using our Kansas City tour itinerary planning tool.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art reviews
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This art museum has wonderful variety. Unfortunately we only had 3 hours and could barely see half of it, I will definitely be going again next time I'm in the area.
This art museum has wonderful variety. Unfortunately we only had 3 hours and could barely see half of it, I will definitely be going again next time I'm in the area. more »
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The Nelson -Atkins Museum of Art is not limited to paintings. There are sculptures, and something for everyone. Be sure and stop and listen if there is a guide to explain. Great stories, and...
The Nelson -Atkins Museum of Art is not limited to paintings. There are sculptures, and something for everyone. Be sure and stop and listen if there is a guide to explain. Great stories, and... more »
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Incredible and fantastic! Could not recommend more, 10 out 10. We literally just went to the Louvre and I enjoyed it here more. Not crowded, cool and refreshing air-conditioning. Beautiful artwork, wonderfully displayed. I felt like I got to go to a private section of the Louvre. Had I not gone I would have no idea how nice it was, we went across the world to see the thinker, when you had a copy right here, just a few states away!!! The glass maze was fun. Our son enjoyed the scavenger hunt, he puts on the pin he won on each shirt wears each day.
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One of Kansas City's top places to visit! Our biggest museum! Gorgeous inside and out! Never crowded! There is cover parking. The museum is closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Open 10am to 5pm rest of the week. Plan a couple hour visit it is a huge place multiple floors and art inside and out! Different exhibitions and programs check their calendar! Handicap accessibility. You can eat and shop here as well! Great place for a picnics too! Great place for pictures!
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