**UPDATE: Look at this response from the museum! Notice my review has nothing to do with COVID. This review was specifically about the abhorrent behavior of a specific employee, which they ignore. Is it fair to assume this behavior is acceptable here? It sure feels like it.** I called to ask a few questions about an event I planned to attend here and was met with one of the rudest responses I've ever received. Their Director of Advancement told me that he was going to call the company I was going with and revoke my ticket for trying to understand some rules they set in place for the event. I wouldn't recommend supporting those who employ and approve of this behavior. Your donations would be better spent elsewhere.

The light experience we went for was cool but expected a little more. After placing your hand under the light, all the lights respond to and flash according to your heartbeat! That was very unique to experience!! Loved the gift shop. So many adorable items. Take your time to check out the details! So much to chose from ….price range from reasonable to reasonably high! The restaurant also had a gallery of unique art before you go in the dining area. This art gallery is considered a boutique gallery due to its size. It was free & unique!! Check it out at least once or for special events. Don’t forget to check out the heads, spider, flower, & a couple other metallic arts, along the building, outside!

My first trip here was a couple of weeks ago, since then I've been back 3 times for events, my family is scheduled to be back for another six months. The artwork is moving, the music events stir your soul to the point of tears. I made it a girl's day out which included a performance from here. Although they were quietly restless, my eldest daughter said it was one of the best days of her life. She loved every minute of it. I love this museum because it shows that even the unexpected can be art and truly beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Each one of us were able to take something different from each piece, and that is what made it beautiful.

Very small “show rooms”, there were not many exhibits to view and the atmosphere was completely uninviting, due to the staff acting as if they were bothered and did not want to be there. I can tell one staff member was extremely bored when as soon as my husband and I went to view the boats, he skipped in there behind us and told my husband “ You’re too close”, we had barely set our eyes on the piece. Very unwelcoming place unless you are wearing oversized jewelry, with your nose in the air. The Nelson Atkins Museum is amazing. Do not waste your time at Kemper Museum, you will be in and out in less than 30 minutes.

Brunch was delicious at the cafe inside the museum. Both my husband and I have dietary restrictions that make ordering difficult at times. We had the kindest server who took her time with us and communicated with the kitchen, who went above and beyond for us, exactly what we needed. Best part of the cafe was the incredible walls. All the artwork was commissioned specifically for the restaurant and done all by one artist. Its dazzling. Feast for the eyes. I only gave 4 stars because as far as the museum goes it's small. I was disappointed. BUT the art that was there was very interesting and thought-provoking.

During my trip and visit to the city I was a visitor to the kemper museum. I really enjoyed the ambiance in the building, it's a welcoming walk. The staff was friendly, kind, patient and human. I was comfortable to be here, comfortable to walk around and look at art and ask the staff any questions we had. It was great seeing my niece really enjoy herself here in the gallery. She even participated in their children's activities and had a great time. I really enjoyed the different stories in the art pieces, so many different mediums and styles, it's definitely diverse and interesting from door to door.

Small gallery space, but the curators keep stunning and thought provoking exhibits in rotation. There is no admission charge to enter, and you'll find a pricey, but delicious brunch served at the restaurant inside on Sundays. If you're looking for a fun morning/afternoon in Kansas City, this should be one of your stops. My only reason for 4 stars is because many (though not all) of the art pieces lack an artist's statement on the placard, which causes the art piece to lose context and meaning for visitors. It would be nice to see more info posted on some of the larger installation pieces.

The Kemper is small and gorgeous providing a personal, engaging experience. The open feel of the museum and cafe provides for natural light and changing exhibits. It all felt bright and inviting even when contemporary art isn’t my usual go to. This is the perfect, intimate museum, not crowded that makes the experience so worthwhile. The art on display was interesting too. Do not miss the huge mural in the cafe and the cafe walls filled with edge to edge art done on site by one artist. And it is all free.

Small but nice collection. Worth the visit if you're into contemporary art. Will say I had zero interaction with an employee my whole time. Front desk was empty, people standing in galleries averted their eyes, was in the gift shop for five minutes and no one was at the counter until the last 30 seconds and when they came in they didn't acknowledge us whatsoever. Cafe was closed.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This place is fantastic. It has a very high quality of art that does not require a 2-day visit like the Nelson-Atkins which is a labyrinth in itself. This is a fantastic place for people with short attention spans that like to do things and see awesome art in about an hour or two maybe longer but not needed to be longer. They have lots of places for people to learn about art and I Believe it's absolutely the best art facility in the Kansas City area. Oh yeah and it's free and free parking!

I had booked a Docent tour because I had 12 ladies from all over the U.S. visiting our great city. We loved our Docent, Cindy! This museum is a must! It is beautiful, has ever changing exhibits, is free, and has a great mission highlighting Women, Minorities of all Colors and Ethnicities with Diverse backgrounds. Cindy did an awesome job enlightening us and interacting with us, as she gleaned our perspectives on individual pieces. Afterwards we ate at Sebastienne, which was delicious!

The main exhibition was in the install process so the already small museum had an even smaller collection available. However what was on view was great and even had one of my current favourite artists on display. It was free entry so the fact there is only a small amount to see isn't bad its not like your spending $20 on entry. Even the small shop had some great works and books that I ended up buying a few things that had long been on my wishlist and had yet to find in person.

When I'm back in KC visiting family always try to get out and see things I missed as a kid growing up here. This is a lovely little free (donation box if you feel inclined). It's small, but I like this since it allows you to take your time while still seeing the exhibits. Currently, a good combination of bigger name exhibits with a competition exhibit with lesser known, but still excellent, artists. If you enjoy contemporary art, don't sleep on this little gem when in town.

I enjoy art of all kinds, and I found the Kemper to be interesting and helpfully minimalistic in its approach. While not a great museum for introducing high school students to contemporary art (the primary goal for my most recent visit) due to few educational guides and scaffolds, it is a well curated collection for those who are already engaged in the artistic conversation.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

I love museums. The Kemper is one of the best Art Museums in the Midwest, if not the world. The events held there are beautiful experiences. Please check both regularly and often to see what events are scheduled. I've never been disappointed by a visit to the Kemper. I strongly recommend that anyone that enjoys art make this a destination as soon as possible. Reviews DO matter. I encourage everyone to use this platform to express their opinions.

Absolutely stunning exhibitions— I was so mesmerized I forgot to take photos! So grateful for a space that generously makes novel art projects available to the public. I was particularly inspired by the embroidered photos of women— who sewed on their portraits themselves as a form of agency while needing to stay at home. I was emotional looking at the portraits before I even learned the story! Go now before another collection takes its place!

Contemporary art isn't much of my taste, but the architecture of this place is beautiful and there is a piece of chulily art right above one of the entrances and it is breath-taking. I didn't get a chance to try the restaurant inside (the Sebastian), but it's worth a visit if you enjoy this type of art. My fiance and I stopped at a little local place called Crow's coffee and it was a nice way to spend an afternoon while on vacation in KC.

Kemper Museum is such a treat! Small enough that it doesn’t take too much time and the art is always next level. Whoever picks the exhibits really knows their stuff because I always find them enjoyable. I love to look into the cafe also - the art from floor to ceiling is always fun. Kemper is a great spot to stop!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

This museum is a Kansas City staple. The employees are always friendly and helpful. The outdoor exhibit is fun and always maintained well. I am very fond of the Third Thursday nights, where 96.5 the buzz comes and has a themed late night at the museum with live music and fun crafts. The gift shop is a little pricey but not anything outlandish compared to other museums, especially considering there is no charge to enter the museum.

It was ok for what it was. I personally am not a fan of Modern Art but my wife is. The building was nice and the restrooms were clean. We were going to eat at the little cafe that is inside but decided instead to pick a different place. Not because of anything wrong but just to try something a little different. The gift shop prices were way too high for the products they were offering. Otherwise it was a great find.

The location was easy to see from the main road. You can park at various locations and there is a large parking lot to the north of the buildings related to the art district. The building is uniquely engineered, very interesting designed. The exhibits are placed so that you can stand next to, sit down near or just walk by. There are volunteers available if needed and a help desk right inside the main entrance.

This museum is small and funky but well worth the visit. I wasn't thrilled when my son insisted we leave the Nelson Atkins to check it out, but I am so glad we did! Very refreshing change of pace. We especially enjoyed the interactive room with thought provoking questions to ponder and discuss. This would be a great place to bring kids who might not be up to huge museum full of very old art.

The sculptures outside the museum led us inside with visual contemplation. The interior was small and I would have like to see more, but there was limited space. There is a cafe inside and to see some of the works, you had to wander through the cafe, which was a little distracting, but I guess if you were seated, eating, it was nice to look at all of the works of art. Very nice diversity.

Absolutely wonderful place to absorb some empathic rewards. Fantastic uses of style and medium. Was delighted to see a piece by Luis Jimenez that was a rendition of the statue ("Mustang") outside of Denver International Airport that locals lovingly call "Blucifer" Said statue was actually the cause of death for Mr. Jimenez when a large part of it fell on him in a tragic accident.

Do you like to look at cool stuff? Take the afternoon to visit. Great atmosphere and helpful guides make the difference. It can be a little overwhelming to go and see everything but the guides really know how to help. Take the time to see everything you want. There are other museums in the complex so give yourself the time or come back for more. Enjoy the viewing get inspired!

Love the art here! They have create your own art areas and my nephews loved it! They had books to read related to the art, a felt table to re-create the art you just saw. My youngest nephew loved this, they have a cute gift shop and a restaurant as well! Highly recommend stopping in if you’re near the Nelson looking for something else to do! It’s free as well!!!

Love this place. A smaller museum that's manageable for a shorter time frame. The building itself is a work of art and full of light. The collection features a temporary exhibition as well as permanent pieces. And a pleasant cafe with a coveted courtyard will complete the experience. Always enjoyed this place, whether with family, friends or a date.

Very nice enjoy the art and nice gift Shop too Don't know about the restaurant no one To ask about it the employer didn't ask if We need help not a thing so we left the was visit with each other that was More imported then visitors
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

I had a great time here. It's smaller, but definitely quiet and interesting to visit. And since it's contemporary art, we knew we would see some "different" pieces in here. The "Word Spill" was by far the most intriguing, and the gentleman working there who was telling us about it was very intuitive and helpful. I will definitely visit again.

Peaceful and interestingly educational! I went with my family. My granddaughters continued researching the artists when we returned home. We all loved it. It was free however, they take donations which is well worth doing.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

I like the location and I loved the sculptures, but i did not realize the gallery was used for political statements and protests. I mean, the artwork was beautiful and very well done, but sometimes art helps us escape the troubles of the outside world. It was a wonderful representation, and very moving, but definitely falsely advertised.

I love this little museum. Such a grand collection, in such a great setting. I think the best description is that while walking through I see this little painting in a far corner. It's a David Hockney. It was like; "oh, we had this little space in the corner and we thought we'd brighten it up with this little Hockney." Just charming.

Great little museum. It’s not intentionally kid friendly, but because it’s small, it’s a great place to take kids who don’t have the attention span for a larger museum. The exhibitions are thoughtful and visually pleasing. Also, the gift shop is one of the best places in the city for jewelry, ceramics and small stylish gift items.

Elegant building and fascinating collections. I appreciate the lack of any censorship in the pieces, and the more adult-centric collections are labelled as such. Lovely little shop with locally made art and jewelry as well. The restaurant was closed the day I went but I will certainly be checking it out next time I'm around.

Beautiful and ever-changing selection of contemporary art, much by artists who have some connection to Kansas City. The docents are knowledgeable and helpful, and the entire space is light-filled and lovely. Stop into the cafe for a seasonal menu that is absolutely delicious. Highly recommended for a day out or a date night.

We spent the day at The Kemper Museum of Art It was outstanding. We saw beautiful art and had lunch at the restaurant. Yum, it was so good, and the view was incredible. Come here you will not be disappointed. I loved it ❤️
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

We didn't get to view the museum's holdings but found the giftshop to be quite interesting with beautiful jewelry. We visited their restaurant which had great service. Kudos to Nova, a great server.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A very nice Contemporary Art Museum. There was a nice variety of displays. The art ranged from the very abstract to the much more approachable. It was great to see local artists featured as well as women and African American artists. My favorite exhibit was actually the cafe. That's a spot I would not miss.

The Kemper Museum is my favorite art institution in the KC area. We visit every 3 or 4 month, as the exhibits are changed frequently. If you love art, don't fail to visit the Kemper.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

First time visit to check out their collection. It was interesting to see contemporary art and experience something different. Staff was friendly and helpful. They have a scavenger hunt with craft activity for kids to do (craft package is ready to take with you and complete at home). Really great!

Advertised as kid friendly. IT IS NOT!!! It has a room for kids to do art work. However as we walked through it was obvious by employees we were not welcome. Received very dirty looks as we walked through. I will not be back. ( my daughter is almost 4) Do not advertise kid friendly if its false.

This place was SO COOL!! Some incredible contemporary art pieces and incredibly well curated galleries. The Vaughn Spann is a must see, especially the colourful X. Also, the entire Dyani White Hawk gallery is a total experience, and I could spend hours admiring the pieces. Plus it's all free!

Nice sized museum for seeing everything on display in one visit. Good exhibits which are offen changed for a fresh look. Excellent restaurant for lunch while at the Kemper.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

Quality at a great price: FREE! Art is varied, including LOCAL artists! Docents welcome you in and, for our experiences, are helpful and friendly. If you haven't stopped by - what are you waiting for?? Seriously? Enjoy a slice of KC that improves your cultural sensibilities AND is enjoyable!

Although the museum was small, the museum still had plenty of artwork to see and it wasn’t time-consuming. So consider going to this museum if you’re either time-strapped or want a quick relief to boredom.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

A charming little museum of modern art. It's an intimate viewing experience perfect for a date and art enthusiast. The museum might be small, but the exhibits make a significant impact on the community. Hats off to the curator for always rotating a fresh collection of art to Kansas City.

It's a good thing I came an hour before close I would have stayed for days. The works that they cultivate here are stunning reflections of the society we have become and are emerging into daily.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Took the time to come down, hoping for more than we got. More employees than either patrons or, quite frankly, artwork. Not sure the theme, or point honestly. Spent 5 minutes, saw it all, and left...
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

Mixture of moving and quirky pieces. Classic example of modern art. Loved the combination of downloadable music for specific paintings that was particularly moving.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

this is such a neat little art gallery. it's very small, so it's a great place to go when you want to see some art but don't have all day to dedicate to a museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

This i a small museum with just a few galleries with some contemporary art. It is cool because it is free, but it is a bit off the beaten path if you are on foot.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The photography exhibition was superb and really connected us as mother-daughter. The gift shop was unique and we found so many things we loved. Overall, it was a wonderful museum experience.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Small museum with a great selection of modern art. I love the emphasis on local artists and artists of color. Great for a quick stop after Saturday brunch.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Loved the photography exhibit that was there. Cool little cafe as well. It's not a huge museum like Nelson Atkins but perfect for a quick hour or two visit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

I drove two hours to visit this museum, only to be turned away at the door because of a private event that was not posted anywhere on the museum’s website. Highly disappointed! Three stars for free parking, a lovely building, and the love of art.
Visited on
Weekend

I felt as this sculpture did after visiting. Very underwhelming. Many of the areas were closed and the ones that were open didn’t have much to offer.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This modern art museum is a favorite because it is not overwhelming. There are usually around 3 exhibits that can be viewed in an hour or less. The store always has interesting things and the cafe is a nice place to get lunch or Sunday brunch. A plus? Parking is free.

More of a snack art experience than a full meal but that’s what makes this special. You don’t need to spend hours. You can get an art fix and get on your way. Not that it’s a Tik Tok type thing but traditional galleries with fewer pieces and thereby easier to digest.

Pro: free admission, fairly interesting works (if modern art is your thing), cool cafe with paintings on the wall, located near other museums so you can hot several museums on the same day Con: somewhat smaller in size compared to the bigwigs of modern art museum.

One of my favorite museums ever. Wonderful size, free and always cool exhibits. Both permanent and rotating. They also have a very well regarded restaurant that everyone recommends. We make this a must do every time we are in Kansas City. You won't be disappointed

A wonderful and free museum! There are 3 galleries, a cafe, and a gift shop. Easy to get through the museum in about an hour. Friendly staff
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

People who work there very nice and helpful. Clean. From pictures I assumed it was all day adventure. I was wrong. Total time to view everything 30 min, you may add 1,5-2 hours if you read postings. Very small. Try food ! it was best salad I ever had :)

Pros: 1) Free 2) Has a few abstract sculptures and works of art Cons: 1) Small (maybe it’s a pro, depending on who you go with)
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Kansas city always finds a way to hide it's gems from the public for some reason. It's a must to go along with nelson atkins
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Interesting museum. Beautiful interior spaces. Our Cadillac Club enjoyed our time there, and the Cafe was really nice!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Really pretty and inspiring little museum. Only took us 30-40 minutes to walk through everything! It's nice that it's free!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This museum never disappoints. I've visited a few times in the past few years and it always has some of the best exhibits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

While it is on the smaller side there is still much to be enjoyed here. Beautiful exhibits line the walls of such variety and creativity you will not be let down. Whether you live in Kansas or are just visiting this place is a must see.

Beautiful art display. I've posted pictures of my favorite exhibit, but you've got to see in person to appreciate.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Absolutely loved coming here! Their special exhibit is a must! I only came to KC for this museum and to stay the night and I was not disappointed! It's a must if I say so myself. Not huge but definitely worth a stop if you love art.

Great Museum. It is small but very informative on the items they have and in a beautiful building. Go check it out. Best of all it's free.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

I love Museums so I go often. Very kind staff and very ñatient with me because I just learning English. Every time I go is an excellent experience. I recommend visit it at least twice a year because its exhibitions changes.

A great collection that doesn't take too long to look at. The Cafe Sebastienne is incredible. The gift shop had some of the nicest and most helpful staff AND holds great gifts including an extensive art jewelry selection.

I love seeing other views. Art isn't just colors, it's feelings and emotions. This museum has different rooms that feel like walking into different realms. It's quiet and relaxing. Thank you for sharing you art with us.

This is the second year we have held our office holiday party at the museum. Betty and her team do a spectacular job. New chef this year knocked it out of the park! Wonderful place to have an event among phenomenal art.

I really enjoyed my visit. I saw some very unique pieces of art that I loved. I will be returning
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

If you want a great experience visit the Cafe Sebastian's and then go explore the exhibit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Worth a visit! Beautiful contemporary building, friendly people and thoughtful exhibits.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Interesting exhibits and private collections. Nice gift shop but you must eat at the cafe Sebastian. Unbelievable menu locally sourced. The spaghetti squash with spinach and roasted tomatoes was delicious!

Very small and the art is cool. I was underwhelmed. But if you have time, definitely check out the cafe. I had the lamb sandwich and the seasonal salad in a cute little atrium and that really made my day!

Kevin Morby gets the band back together for Life in Frame by Julie Blackmon.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This is a must visit, if you are in Kansas City and enjoy contemporary art. Lots of great pieces and can all be viewed within 2 hours. Very nice on-site restaurant and free parking is available.

It's no Nelson Atkins, rather small, but the art and environment are fine.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

We enjoyed our visit and all of the unique exhibits. I tis definitely worth your time to visit this museum.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

Great smaler museum. Staff was friendly and interacted with us a lot, informing us about featured exhibits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

Really unique, definitely thought it was going to be larger but wasn’t terrible. I’d still recommend people visit if they like contemporary.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

Excellent little museum. Small, relaxed, beautiful, friendly. Some really nice things in there too (though part of the main collection was not accessible). Nice restaurant too. Good food.

A beautiful Gallery with well curated pieces. Knowledge staff was very helpful. Food and dining could use more support but should not deter Art lovers from the Amazing pieces on exhibit

Loved the art here. Very nice and clean. Free admission is a plus!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Modern art at no cost. I was in there on a Sunday during summer.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Not sure why it exists. So small. Maybe a tax shelter?
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Neat little museum, had good exhibits and wasn't super busy!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

I had a wonderful experience with John, Donnie, and the rest of the Special Events team for a private party. Everything was top notch from start to finish. Highly recommend!

Fabulous museum and the artwork was exceptional!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Very nice gallery. It's not overwhelmingly large, but for the space they have wonderful exhibits. Probably about an hour walk through maybe two if you really take your time.

Cool and hip contemporary museum in Kansas City. Put it on your list! I walked in in a bustling Friday night with a live band and a teen roaring 20s party. Tres cool …

It was alright it's free so that was nice... just not alot to see but still cool!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

We had a class reunion there. Enjoyed the art work and had a great meal.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I went there again this month (11/2019), and this time the museum was excellent, great exhibits and very professional yet friendly staff. It is free to visit.

Nice venue for contemporary art, a little small but it's free! Good food at the restaurant and excellent service, not too easy to hear inside the restaurant.