Union Station Kansas City: Where History Meets Arcade-Fueled Fun
Kansas City's Union Station isn't your average train station (though let's be honest, how many truly epic train stations are there these days?). This place is a sprawling monument to a bygone era, meticulously restored and absolutely bursting with things to see and do. So, ditch the dusty travel brochures and forget about pigeons pecking at stale french fries. Here's your hilarious guide to conquering Union Station like a boss:
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| What To Do At Union Station Kansas City |
The History Buff
Think Union Station is all about waiting for Amtrak #734 to Des Moines? Think again, my friend. This place is steeped in history, from its grand architecture to the permanent exhibit, Union Station Stories, which will have you feeling like a time-traveling train conductor (minus the itchy wool uniform, hopefully). Brush up on your railroad knowledge or discover how mail once traversed the country by way of the Railway Post Office exhibit. Guaranteed, it'll be way more interesting than Aunt Edna's endless vacation photos on Facebook.
The Science Nerd (or Curious Kid at Heart)
Is your brain aching for a workout? Science City at Union Station, bursting with over 300 interactive exhibits, is here to flex those mental muscles. Grown-ups, don't be shy! Channel your inner child and build a giant water droplet, or maybe even explore the wonders of the human body (hey, you learned about it in school, but did you ever get to crawl through a giant heart model?). Science City is perfect for a rainy day (or escaping the in-laws... no judgement).
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The Stargazer
Feeling a little cosmic? Head over to the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium. Here you can launch yourself on a mind-blowing journey through the universe, all from the comfort of a plush reclining seat (way better than that time you tried to stargaze while lying on a lumpy beach towel filled with sand). Dazzling laser light shows and informative planetarium presentations will have you feeling like you can practically touch the stars.
The Foodie (or Hangry Tourist)
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Let's face it, all this adventuring can build up an appetite. Fear not, weary traveler! Union Station boasts a delightful variety of restaurants, from upscale steakhouses to casual cafes. Grab a gourmet burger at The Yard or indulge in a sweet treat from Parisi Coffee. There's something to tempt every taste bud, so no need to resort to vending machine chips for sustenance (although, hey, we've all been there).
The Culture Vulture
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Craving a dose of the arts? Catch a Broadway show at the City Theatre or dive into a captivating film at the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre. They've got everything from heart-wrenching dramas to action-packed blockbusters, so you can unleash your inner theater nerd or movie buff.
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
Bonus: Retail Therapy
Need a souvenir or just want to browse some shops? Union Station has you covered. Find unique gifts or grab some snazzy new threads at the various retailers scattered throughout the complex. Just remember, buying that fifteenth Kansas City Chiefs jersey might not fly with your significant other.
FAQs:
How to get to Union Station? Amtrak is an option, of course, but you can also drive or take the KC Streetcar for a free ride!
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How much does it cost to get into Union Station? Entry to the station itself is free. However, there are separate admission fees for some attractions like Science City and the Planetarium.
How long does it take to explore Union Station? You could easily spend a whole day here, or just pop in for a quick visit. It all depends on how much you want to see and do.
Is Union Station kid-friendly? Absolutely! Science City is a haven for curious minds, and there's plenty of space for little ones to run around.
Are there places to eat at Union Station? You bet! From casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, there's something for everyone.
So there you have it! Your one-stop guide to conquering the magnificent Union Station. Now get out there and explore, but maybe avoid wearing your bowling shoes – this ain't exactly the place for a spontaneous game.
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