Exploring history isn’t about getting schooled. In KC|OP, we have nationally recognized museums and memorials. You could create an entire trip focused on history or choose one historical spot to complete your weekend. No matter how you choose to explore, options are abundant in Overland Park.

 

Museum at Prairiefire

The Natural History Museum at Prairiefire is the first building in North America to feature NASA-developed dichroic glass on its exterior for a breathtaking (and selfie-worthy) display. They host timely and scientifically accurate exhibitions, curated by top research scientists.

Museum at Prairiefire

Museum at Prairiefire

 

WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial

The internationally renowned museum and memorial welcomes visitors to enter across a glass bridge suspended over a symbolic poppy field that stands in memory of the nine million people who died as a direct result of the war.

National World War I Museum and Memorial

National World War I Museum and Memorial

 

Union Station

A short walk from the WWI Museum, Union Station opened in 1914. The Grand Hall is an architectural marvel—a soaring 95-foot-high ceiling is accented by three 3,500-pound chandeliers and a six-foot-wide clock.

Union Station

Union Station

 

Johnson County Museum of History

Browse a sizable collection of historic photos, artifacts and documents that trace Overland Park history from the late 1800s on. The newly renovated space is also home to a 1960’s all-electric house.

Johnson County Museum

Johnson County Museum

 

Tom’s Town Distilling Co.

Kansas City’s first legal distillery since Prohibition. Take a distillery tour and raise a glass to the memory of one of Kansas City’s most infamous figures: Boss Tom Pendergast.

Tom's Town Distilling Co.

Tom's Town Distilling Co.

 

9/11 Memorial in Overland Park

At the heart of the Memorial, standing 14 feet tall, is a 2.5 ton artifact from Ground Zero.

9/11 Memorial

9/11 Memorial

 

Arabia Steamboat Museum

This steamboat sank in 1856 in the Missouri River near Kansas City and 132 years later the items recovered are on display. It’s the largest single collection of pre-Civil War artifacts in the world!

Arabia Steamboat Museum

Arabia Steamboat Museum

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