Explore Kansas City
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Type: History Museums, Museums
10Best Says
Antique toys and miniatures crowd the rooms of this 33,000-square-foot, recently renovated and refreshed museum, which operates on the campus of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Inside an... Read More
Antique toys and miniatures crowd the rooms of this 33,000-square-foot, recently renovated and refreshed museum, which operates on the campus of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Inside an addition to this restored, circa-1911 mansion dozens of rooms displaying antique dolls and dollhouses from various eras, as well as cast-iron toys and trains. Marvel at intricately designed miniatures that include a hand-woven rug and a tiny sewing machine. Admire an old-fashioned firehouse and fire engine or an intricate circa-1900 stove. Contemporary toys, such as G.I. Joe, 1960s Barbies, or agate marbles, are also featured. Boomers especially enjoy tripping down memory lane while sharing a glimpse of their past with family members and friends. Admission is free for active military too.
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Hours:
- Mon,: Wed-Sat; 10am-4pm
- Sun: 10pm-4pm
Admissions:
- Adult $5; Child (4 and under) Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Lisa Waterman Gray
Kansas City Local Expert
- Museums: "You could easily spend hours looking at this museum's permanent exhibits. But be sure to check out special, rotating exhibits too, such as Over the Rainbow: Toys From the Land of Oz, or Treasures of the Kings: 18th Century French Interiors in Miniature."
- Best for Museums Because: This museum has a national designation and an utterly fascinating treasure trove of priceless miniatures and toys.