Science City at Union Station

Science City at Union Station showing signage as well as a couple
Science City at Union Station which includes aircraft, heritage elements and interior views
Science City at Union Station
Science City at Union Station which includes a playground, outdoor art and a city
Science City at Union Station showing bird life


Experience the wonder of science via hands-on exhibits and experiments at this family-friendly museum set inside a century-old railway station. 

Visitors of all ages are welcome to participate in the educational and entertaining activities of Science City at Union Station. Learn how science works via live demonstrations, marvel at brainteasing illusions, go on a journey deep into our solar system and explore America’s railroad history. Science City at Union Station is housed in Union Station, a national monument and train depot museum and entertainment complex.

Within the museum find demonstration areas where scientists carry out experiments and then let you try them yourself. Browse examples of ancient dinosaur bones and dig for fossils in the Dinolab. Test your strength against friends and family in a tug-of-war battle. The Kinderlabhas activities designed for children between the ages of 1 and 7.

At the KC Rail Experience, see how train travel has evolved and played an important role in everyday life in the U.S. Mr E. Hotel is a recreation of a hotel with 21 illusions that defy the laws of gravity and physics. Meet birds, lizards and snakes in the nature area. Ride a bike along a cable suspended 30 feet (9 meters) in the air.

Elsewhere, discover fascinating facts about common foods and drinks such as why soft drinks fizz. Watch as the children climb, jump and slide around the outdoor adventure playground. Don’t miss the chance to attend movies about birds, dinosaurs and the solar system at The Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium.

Reach the museum in Union Station easily via Kansas City’s extensive network of public transportation. Public buses stop close to the station’s main entrance, as does the free KC Streetcar. Parking is available for a fee at an on-site parking garage. Combine your time at the museum with a visit to the station’s other attractions, including a theater and traveling art and history exhibitions.

Science City at Union Station is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. The Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium charges a separate fee. Visit the museum’s official website for information about special events such as children’s birthday parties, after-hours tours and overnight stays.

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Things to do near Science City at Union Station

At Science City in Union Station, Kansas City, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, including exploring fascinating museums and cultural attractions. Art lovers will appreciate the diverse entertainment options within this vibrant complex, featuring sports and theatrical performances. Whether you're interested in immersive exhibits or simply enjoying the dynamic atmosphere, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating destination.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit the City Market of Kansas City, a vibrant public market only 3.2km from Science City. If you're up for a drive, Zona Rosa Shopping Mall and Oak Park Mall, both about 11-13.2km away, offer family-friendly entertainment and a variety of shops.

Recreation

GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium offers exhilarating sports experiences, located 9.7km from Science City, while Kansas City Memorial Hall, 4.8km away, provides vibrant musical entertainment. For a cultural escape, the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, just 1.6km away, showcases captivating dance performances in a romantic atmosphere.

Adventure

Explore the Santa Fe Trail, an outdoor adventure located 1.6km from Science City, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. For a more thrilling experience, head to the Plaza Tennis Center, 4.8km away, offering exciting tennis activities, or try Jaegers Subsurface Paintball, 12.9km away, for an exhilarating paintball battle.

Nightlife

At Science City, the nightlife buzzes with excitement. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, just 644m away, offers adventure through its arcade. The Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, a mere 161m distant, provides captivating entertainment, while Just Off Broadway Theatre, 1.4km away, blends culture and romance seamlessly.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Science City at Union Station

Science City at Union Station offers a variety of attractions, including event venues, entertainment arenas, and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences, enjoy family-friendly activities, and explore the vibrant city atmosphere. This locale is perfect for tourists seeking a mix of education and entertainment during their stay in Kansas City.

  • Crown Center: Located 644m from Science City, Crown Center offers a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor spaces, shops, and dining options. Enjoy a leisurely stroll while engaging in fun activities for all ages.
  • Kansas City Convention Center: Situated 1.6km away, this venue buzzes with business energy, hosting conferences and events. It's an architectural marvel, perfect for those interested in the dynamics of the corporate world.
  • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Just 4.8km from Science City, this art museum showcases a stunning collection of art, providing a rich cultural experience amidst beautiful gardens and impressive sculptures.

Best time to go to Science City at Union Station

The best time to visit Science City at Union Station is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January29.8°F (-1.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
June75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July79.0°F (26.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Science City at Union Station

To save on your visit to Science City at Union Station, plan your trip between December and February, when accommodation prices are at their lowest. Consider staying on a Monday, as Saturday is typically the priciest. Utilise Expedia to find budget-friendly hotel options and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to check for any extra fees that may apply. For transport, public buses and walking are cost-effective ways to navigate the area while enjoying free activities in the vicinity.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Science City at Union Station are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Science City at Union Station is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Science City at Union Station is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can sort the results to display the lowest prices first, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could make savings by combining your hotel reservation at Science City near Union Station with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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