The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Arts & Culture · Kansas City, MO

4.7 (93 · Yelp ) ·Est. 1982 ·

About

You'll find a crowd that's equal parts nostalgia seeker and cultural historian at this museum. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures isn't just about displaying old dolls and dollhouses; it actively examines how gender roles shape the way children play and understand their place in society. That makes it a thoughtful, LGBTQ+-supportive stop in Kansas City. The museum houses the world's largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation's largest collections of antique toys, all housed in the historic Tureman Mansion on the UMKC campus.

Plan for about two hours to see both the toy and miniature galleries. If you're also interested in art, the nearby Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is worth pairing with this visit. The museum is open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm, and offers free wifi. Check the website for current admission prices.

Features

  • World's largest fine-scale miniatures collection
  • Examines gender roles in children's play
  • Housed in historic Tureman Mansion

Practical

MuseumGood for KidsFree WiFi

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this museum LGBTQ+-owned or specifically LGBTQ+-focused? +

It's described as LGBTQ+-supportive, but ownership details aren't confirmed. The museum's analysis of gender roles in play is relevant to queer visitors.

What are the hours? +

Open Monday, Wednesday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Closed Tuesdays.

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