The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

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.