One of the most iconic holiday destinations in Kansas City is Union Station. The beautiful, historical building is adorned with the magic of the season as families bustle about to the buzz of miniature trains, delighting everyone who enters the gold-laden doors. The lineup of lineup of attractions broadens every year, giving Kansas Citians a reason to visit more than once.
Holiday Reflections
Held in the Grand Plaza, Holiday Reflections is a feast for the eyes. This spectacular themed experience features floor to ceiling lights, a multitude of decorated trees, forest friends, floating mirrored ornaments and a bigger-than-ever Rudy’s Wonderland where kids can ride the historic Jones Store Train. It is also connected to the fan favorite model train display. New for 2023 is the addition of “Fountain Forest”, a grand liquid fireworks show set to the beat of holiday songs. All 17 iconic Grand Plaza windows will be covered with “12 Days of Christmas” themed blackout curtains, making the dazzling lighting experience enjoyable day or night.
Customers must select date of visit, and advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged to avoid a wait, or to be turned away. You may arrive up to 30 minutes before your hourly timed ticket. Expect to spend 45-60 minutes in total enjoying the decorations, taking pictures, and marveling at the sights. Viewing is available everyday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with the last ticket sold and entry an hour before each session ends.
Arvin Gottleib Planetarium
Sky Station LIVE – Stars of Faith is showing at the Arvin Gottleib Planetarium through January 1. The show highlights winter constellations, planets and deep-space objects, and also the many ways in which faith connects with the night sky.
Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre
At a cost of only $3.75 per ticket, a visit to the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre should be on your KC holiday bucket list! “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” “Elf,” and “The Polar Express” movies are on the docket, running through December 31. Make this a relaxing last stop after your eventful visit to Union Station.
City Stage Theatre
“Three Wise Cats on Broadway” is a story of love and miracles. Taking place Nov. 25-Dec. 23, with matinee showings, this is the perfect outing for young children. Tickets are $10 for Union Station members, and $12 for nonmembers.
Science City
Science City will be celebrating a “Merry Science Day” on Dec. 17, but the full month of December will include seasonal displays. A Noon Year’s Eve event will take place Dec. 31, complete with a massive balloon drop. Tickets, again, must be purchased in advance.
Tips for parents
- Plan ahead by purchasing tickets online for any and all exhibits.
- Arrive early if possible to allow ample time to park and walk to exhibit.
- Take advantage of all the amazing photo opportunities! Warn kids ahead of time that pictures will be taken.
- Parking is plentiful. The West Yard Garage Parking accepts credit, debit and cash. The South Plaza and Triangle Lot only accepts credit or debit card.
- Strollers are welcome.
- Food is not allowed within the Holiday Reflections display, but options for sweet treats, coffee, lunch and dinner all exist within Union Station.
- If children are wanting to ride the mini train within Holiday Reflections, make sure to purchase the $5 ticket as well. Union Station members receive free train rides!
- If viewing “The Polar Express” at the Extreme Screen Theatre, plan on everyone wearing pajamas for an extra special treat!
- Head to Crown Center before or after for a little window shopping.
What a wonderful time of year. Happy Holidays!
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