When exploring Kansas City, Missouri, there are plenty of unique and offbeat activities to experience beyond the typical tourist attractions. From quirky museums to hidden gems, there is no shortage of unusual things to do in Kansas City, Missouri. Whether you’re a local looking for something different or a visitor seeking unconventional adventures, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Join us as we uncover the most intriguing and unconventional experiences that make Kansas City, Missouri, a destination like no other.
Visit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Essential Information
– Address: 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112
– Opening Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm
– Fee: Adults $7, Children (5-12) $5, Children under 5 free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, Toy enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures in Kansas City offers a unique and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. What sets this museum apart is its extensive collection of over 72,000 toys and miniatures, showcasing the evolution of playthings throughout history.
One of the most unusual attractions at the museum is the intricate dollhouses on display. These are not your typical dollhouses; they are meticulously crafted miniatures of real-life homes, complete with tiny furniture, decor, and even functioning lights. Visitors can marvel at the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into creating these miniature worlds.
Another highlight of the museum is the collection of antique toys dating back to the 19th century. From tin soldiers to wooden trains, these vintage toys offer a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the simplicity and charm of playthings from bygone eras.
For those interested in more modern toys, the museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits that showcase the latest trends in toy design and technology. Visitors can try their hand at building their own creations or test out the newest toys on the market.
Overall, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is a hidden gem in Kansas City that offers a delightful and educational experience for anyone with a love for toys, miniatures, or simply a curiosity about the history of play.
Explore the Cave of the Winds at Worlds of Fun
Essential Information
– Address: 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave, Kansas City, MO 64161
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday-Sunday)
– Fee: Included with Worlds of Fun admission
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Adventure seekers, families with kids
Why is it so unusual
When visiting Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri, one of the most unusual attractions you’ll encounter is the Cave of the Winds. This unique experience offers visitors the chance to explore a simulated underground cave system, complete with winding tunnels, hidden chambers, and mysterious rock formations.
Unlike traditional amusement park rides, the Cave of the Winds provides a hands-on adventure that challenges both the mind and body. Visitors can navigate through dark passageways, crawl through tight spaces, and even encounter simulated bats and other creatures of the underground world.
For those seeking a break from the usual thrill rides and shows, the Cave of the Winds offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a chance to test your courage and agility in a setting that is both exciting and educational. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for something different to do at Worlds of Fun, exploring the Cave of the Winds is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Take a tour of the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank
Essential Information
– Address: 1 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64198
– Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
– Fee: Free admission
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, families, and anyone interested in economics
Why is it so unusual
When visiting Kansas City, Missouri, one might not expect to find a hidden gem like the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank. This unique attraction offers a glimpse into the world of finance and currency in a way that is both educational and entertaining.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a display of shredded money, showcasing the process of destroying old currency. This unusual sight sets the tone for the rest of the experience, where guests can participate in activities like lifting a gold bar to feel its weight or testing their knowledge of monetary policy through interactive exhibits.
One of the highlights of the Money Museum is the opportunity to see a real cash vault in action. Visitors can watch as money is sorted, counted, and prepared for distribution, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the Federal Reserve Bank.
For those looking to take home a unique souvenir, the museum’s gift shop offers a variety of money-themed items, from piggy banks to novelty currency. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or simply someone interested in the world of finance, a visit to the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank is sure to be an unusual and enlightening experience.
Discover the Glore Psychiatric Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 3406 Frederick Ave, St Joseph, MO 64506
– Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm
– Fee: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for students, free for children under 6
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, those interested in mental health
Why is it so unusual
The Glore Psychiatric Museum offers a unique and somewhat eerie experience for visitors curious about the history of mental health treatment. One of the most unusual attractions at the museum is the collection of psychiatric devices used throughout history, showcasing the evolution of treatments from the medieval times to modern practices. Visitors can view restraining devices, shock therapy equipment, and even a lobotomy ice pick.
Another intriguing aspect of the museum is the artwork created by former patients, providing a glimpse into the minds of those who resided in psychiatric institutions. The museum also features exhibits on the history of mental health care in Missouri, including stories of patients and the challenges they faced.
For those seeking a different kind of museum experience, the Glore Psychiatric Museum offers a thought-provoking journey through the often misunderstood world of mental health treatment.
Experience the Steamboat Arabia Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 400 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106
– Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
– Fee: Adults $15, Children (4-14) $5
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, families
Why is it so unusual
The Steamboat Arabia Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its remarkable collection of artifacts salvaged from the wreckage of the Steamboat Arabia. This 19th-century steamboat sank in the Missouri River in 1856, carrying a cargo of goods intended for frontier towns. What makes this museum truly unique is the focus on everyday items from the past that provide a glimpse into life during that era.
Visitors to the Steamboat Arabia Museum can witness the painstaking process of excavating and preserving artifacts such as clothing, tools, and household items that were perfectly preserved in the river mud for over a century. The museum offers a rare opportunity to see these well-preserved relics up close and learn about the challenges faced by pioneers and traders in the 1800s.
One of the most unusual activities at the museum is the chance to watch conservators at work in the preservation lab, where they clean and restore artifacts using specialized techniques. This behind-the-scenes look at the conservation process adds a fascinating dimension to the visitor experience and highlights the dedication required to protect these historical treasures for future generations.
In addition to the artifacts themselves, the Steamboat Arabia Museum also features interactive exhibits and displays that bring the history of the steamboat and its cargo to life. Visitors can try their hand at activities like rope-making or learn about the science behind artifact preservation, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Overall, the Steamboat Arabia Museum offers a truly unusual and immersive journey into the past, allowing visitors to connect with history in a tangible and engaging way. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about life on the frontier, this museum is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Go on a haunted tour of the Kansas City Ghosts and Gangsters Tour
Essential Information
– Address: 1100 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64106
– Opening Hours: Tours available on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM
– Fee: $25 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 2 hours
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Kansas City Ghosts and Gangsters Tour offers a unique blend of chilling tales and historical insights that set it apart from typical tourist attractions. As you embark on this haunting journey, you’ll explore the darker side of Kansas City’s past, delving into the mysterious world of spirits and notorious gangsters.
One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to visit haunted locations where paranormal activity has been reported. From eerie alleys to historic buildings with a ghostly presence, each stop on the tour is sure to send shivers down your spine. Professional guides lead you through these haunted sites, sharing spine-tingling stories of the supernatural occurrences that have taken place within their walls.
In addition to the ghostly encounters, the tour also sheds light on the city’s infamous gangster past. You’ll learn about the notorious figures who once ruled the streets of Kansas City, from bootleggers to mob bosses. Walking in their footsteps, you’ll uncover the secrets and scandals that shaped the city’s history, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of crime and intrigue.
For those seeking a truly unusual and unforgettable experience, the Kansas City Ghosts and Gangsters Tour provides a perfect blend of paranormal thrills and historical intrigue. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the hidden mysteries that lie beneath the surface of Kansas City’s streets.
Visit the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame
Essential Information
– Address: 630 N 126th St, Bonner Springs, KS 66012
– Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Closed on Sundays
– Fee: Adults $6, Seniors $4, Children (4-16) $2, Under 3 Free
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Families, History Buffs, Agriculture Enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When exploring Kansas City, Missouri, a visit to the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame offers a unique and educational experience. This attraction stands out for its focus on the rich history and innovations in American agriculture. Unlike traditional museums, here you can witness fascinating displays of antique farming equipment, interactive exhibits on crop cultivation, and even a replica of a one-room schoolhouse from the 1900s.
One of the most unusual activities at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame is the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops where visitors can try their hand at milking a cow or learn about the process of making butter. For those interested in the evolution of farming technology, the center showcases vintage tractors and machinery that played a crucial role in shaping the agricultural landscape of the United States.
Moreover, the Hall of Fame section honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of agriculture, shedding light on the unsung heroes behind the nation’s food production. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to pioneering farmers, scientists, and inventors who revolutionized the way we grow and harvest crops.
For a truly offbeat experience, don’t miss the chance to stroll through the center’s outdoor gardens, where you can marvel at various plant species and learn about sustainable farming practices. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply curious about the backbone of American society, the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame offers a refreshing and enlightening perspective on the importance of agriculture in our daily lives.
