Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Guide
Art for Everyone: Explore Masterpieces from Around the World Guide
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Kansas City, Missouri. With a collection spanning over 5,000 years of art from nearly every continent, the museum offers something for everyone. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, the Nelson-Atkins provides a rich and diverse cultural experience. Best of all, general admission to the museum is free! The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art opened in 1933, thanks to the generous bequests of William Rockhill Nelson and Mary McAfee Atkins. Nelson, the founder of the Kansas City Star newspaper, left his estate to establish a museum "for the enjoyment of the public." Atkins, a local schoolteacher and art collector, also left her fortune to the museum. Over the years, the museum's collection has grown significantly through acquisitions and donations, making it one of the leading art museums in the United States. Visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection, which includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts. Highlights include works by Caravaggio, Monet, Van Gogh, and Warhol. The museum also features a significant collection of Asian art, including Chinese paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. Outside the museum, visitors can stroll through the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park, which features iconic works such as the Shuttlecocks by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. While the museum doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, Rozzelle Court Restaurant inside the museum offers a unique dining experience in a beautiful setting inspired by an Italian courtyard.
Transportation
The Main MAX bus route stops directly in front of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Other bus routes that serve the area include the 35 and 39. Check the RideKC website or app for the most up-to-date route information.