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Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111, United States
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Ar
Review №1

Went for free with a date and it was lovely! Had a scheduled appointment so there werent too many people. Visiting a nearly empty art museum is surreally beautiful.

Cl
Review №2

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!!!

Ni
Review №3

Just went after their reopening and it was fantastic. The cafe is open and their safety guidelines are above and beyond to make eating very comfortable.

Os
Review №4

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.

Ja
Review №5

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

Da
Review №6

Great museum! Friendly staff and they always have really interesting exhibits.

Mi
Review №7

Small gallery space, but the curators keep stunning and thought provoking exhibits in rotation. There is no admission charge to enter, and youll find a pricey, but delicious brunch served at the restaurant inside on Sundays. If youre 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 artists 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.

Yu
Review №8

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.

Mi
Review №9

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.

El
Review №10

This museum is small and funky but well worth the visit. I wasnt 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.

A
Review №11

Really awesome museum. It’s small compared to the Nelson-Atkins but definitely worth a visit. Make sure to check out the art in the museum cafe.

Kr
Review №12

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 its absolutely the best art facility in the Kansas City area. Oh yeah and its free and free parking!

Al
Review №13

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.

Ti
Review №14

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!

Mi
Review №15

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!

Da
Review №16

When Im 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). Its 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, dont sleep on this little gem when in town.

Ma
Review №17

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 dayCon: somewhat smaller in size compared to the bigwigs of modern art museum.

L
Review №18

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 its small. I was disappointed. BUT the art that was there was very interesting and thought-provoking.

Ma
Review №19

Beautiful and fun architecture inside and out! Makes for amazing photographs especially for weddings or portraits!

Am
Review №20

Very cool building with a unique collection. Definitely worth a visit!

Ja
Review №21

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

Ka
Review №22

My first trip here was a couple of weeks ago, since then Ive 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 girls 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.

Ti
Review №23

I love seeing other views. Art isnt just colors, its feelings and emotions. This museum has different rooms that feel like walking into different realms. Its quiet and relaxing. Thank you for sharing you art with us.

Bo
Review №24

Many brilliant pieces of art work & friendly employees. Was a splendid day.

Li
Review №25

Well its one of the smallest museums I have ever been in. It is FREE but there is a box that donations can be put in. Great place to go on a rainy day.

Ka
Review №26

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.

Oa
Review №27

Great collection and interesting building. The staff is very cheerful.

Ke
Review №28

Fantabulous gallery that is perfect for a daytime adventure or on the weekend. Definitely worth the visit and a nice change of pace after The Nelson too!

Yv
Review №29

E-clectic 2018 performed there & dinner was served along with a bar. Staff was friendly, dinner good with great service.

Er
Review №30

Great small museum with great contemporary art

Li
Review №31

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.

Je
Review №32

Great structure with always intriguing exhibits.

Ke
Review №33

Astonishingly curated rotating exhibitions of world-class contemporary art. Im always bowled over by what I see. One of the art worlds worst kept secrets for a reason!

Di
Review №34

Its a lovely contemporary museum. I enjoyed the interactive activities that were set up to enhance the visitors experiences.

We
Review №35

Small but elegant.

Sh
Review №36

It was small but great use of space..loved the photography area and the gift shop had unique and interesting items!!!

Se
Review №37

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. Its a David Hockney. It was like; oh, we had this little space in the corner and we thought wed brighten it up with this little Hockney. Just charming.

He
Review №38

Awesome museum. Not far from the Nelson. Highly recommend it.

Er
Review №39

The kemper museum of modern art is truly a treasure of Kansas City. I unfortunately dont get there enough but when I do it is always a fabulous experience. Thank you to the camper Foundation and family. Theyre truly Kansas City family.

Do
Review №40

Loved it! Art is so fun, cafe inside is also super yummy.

Au
Review №41

Makes me miss my ex bruh

Ma
Review №42

Restaurant is great for lunch. Always good exhibits.

Du
Review №43

During my trip and visit to the city I was a visitor to the kemper museum. I really enjoyed the ambiance in the building, its 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 childrens activities and had a great time. I really enjoyed the different stories in the art pieces, so many different mediums and styles, its definitely diverse and interesting from door to door.

Re
Review №44

Its smaller, but very nice place to visit and it is FREE.

Bl
Review №45

Great place to spend the afternoon, the Summer Wheat exhibit is up right now, and its awesome!

Ma
Review №46

The Contemporary Art is amazing and really love this museum. Outside of the Bellagio it was my first experience to see a Dale Chihuly piece in person. So incredible.

Ed
Review №47

The art is amazing

Li
Review №48

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.Ive 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.

Be
Review №49

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.

De
Review №50

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.

Vi
Review №51

Great place, exhibits are always changing. Something new every time we visit.

ad
Review №52

Amazing place that changes regularly, I try and visit four times a year

Ki
Review №53

A small museum dedicated to contemporary art just down the street from the Nelson. With rotating exhibits and local artists, its well worth a couple hours of your time.

Ju
Review №54

Beautiful building, great arelt and ideas. Just expect to be followed around if youre not dressed like youre wealthy.

Ma
Review №55

Thoughtful exciting exhibit. Tasty lunch, wonderful museum shop with local artists

Jo
Review №56

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.

Sc
Review №57

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. Thats a spot I would not miss.

Ly
Review №58

Always something interesting and enjoyable to view. An easy, quick stop that turns into an hour or more when I need an art fix.

Un
Review №59

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

Ch
Review №60

Amazing art, free visits.

Ja
Review №61

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.

jo
Review №62

Beautiful Art really layed back place a must see!!!!!

M
Review №63

Enjoyed the art and brunch!!! Worth a trip back.

ma
Review №64

Beautiful building with great art and smart informative staff. A must for any cultural being and advanced tourists.

Dr
Review №65

Perfectly sized museum with fantastic, women focused collection and exhibits. Security staff were very nice! Highly recommend

Ca
Review №66

An easy smaller museum to enjoy. Good food, service, gift shop & contemporary art to enjoy.

Ah
Review №67

I love the art! Some intriguing pieces. The only thing that would make it better is if the museum was bigger.

Sy
Review №68

Calming place with good and versatile art.

Ma
Review №69

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.

Ra
Review №70

This place is so unique I love that it isnt too large also it means i can spend more time in the exhibits

Do
Review №71

This place was recommended by a friend for a Sunday brunch. This place was good with excellent service. But the prices were expensive for what you get. You get just enough to appease your appetite. Though the food was good, but I wont be back.

Da
Review №72

Wonderful contemporary art in a beautiful setting. Have great exhibitions on a regular basis.

du
Review №73

Ive lived in this city all my life and have traveled the world. I have never seen this area and was amazed by its powerful art. The artist and students are incredible. Walk around the whole area at a slow pace with a drink and enjoy

Br
Review №74

Cool museum with a great restaurant inside. It’s small enough to see everything in an hour or so. They change the exhibits often enough to keep everything fresh.

Lo
Review №75

A beautiful and amazing museum. I was very impressed and I love the colored pencils I bought at the gift shop

Jo
Review №76

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 Im around.

Me
Review №77

We stopped here on our visit to KC. A very small place but free and full of cool art. Next to the bigger art museum so worth the quick walk over here.

Ce
Review №78

I love the Kemper. Their exhibits are so unique. If you have the time, definitely eat at their cafe!

An
Review №79

Free amazing contemporary art. They often have public and community/ family events

Br
Review №80

Very interesting pieces.

Co
Review №81

The place is smaller for a museum. But good collection of arts.The gift shop has a lot of fun choices for arts and for gifts. I think I end up spend more time at the shop than the museum.

Ka
Review №82

Super exhibit spaceI loved the food at the cafe

Mi
Review №83

Great place, but a little on the small side. Free admission however! We enjoyed it!

Ry
Review №84

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.

Ji
Review №85

Small museum with big programs and ambition. Spend half an hour there just to support it.

Me
Review №86

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.

Jo
Review №87

The Kemper Museum of Modern Art is one of the places that I was able to take my daughter, myself and my mom to when I was able to visit Kansas City in October of 2018.My mom is now living in Kansas City right now. My grandma Cramer also lives west of my mom in Overland Park, KS.I didnt take any photos of the Kemper Museum of Modern Art, but if youd like to take a visit to Kansas City for a vacation day from your place where you currently live in right now, please consider going to the Kemper Museum of Modern Art is one of the places that you should consider going.I didnt take any photos when I was in Kansas City in October of 2018, please consider going to the Kansas City Zoo and to the Kemper while youre able to visit Kansas City (if youre able to come to Kansas City during the winter, then please reconsider going to the Kansas City Zoo...)

Sc
Review №88

For anyone who enjoys modern art. This is a must see. Those of you who dont know wether you are a fan of modern art. This would be the place for you to find out.

Ma
Review №89

It was neat. Definitely what youd expect from an art museum.

Ne
Review №90

Somewhat large for a contemporary museum. There was an interesting short term exhibit in the main gallery, other areas had just a few, intentionally striking, pieces of permanent collection. Take the time to stroll around the buildings exterior and enjoy the public art on display. The spiders by Louise Bourgeois at the entrance are a favorite of mine. I was heartbroken to hear that one was removed due to damage from someone climbing it. Please dont do this and call the the police directly if you see someone doing it. Such a shame that people cant respect that some things are here for everyones enjoyment.

Ma
Review №91

An awesome experience from the beginning of my tours as a tourist to the very end. Very nice staffers to welcome and assist. Good job Kemper Museum thank you

An
Review №92

Lovely place and people. The gift shop is great! Cant wait to go back and eat at the cafe

Lo
Review №93

Love this place. A smaller museum thats 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.

de
Review №94

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!

Br
Review №95

Went to a wedding here. The catering company was good. Food was good.The Art exhibit was very modern and gratuitously nude. Not my style, but to each their own.Was a very good venue for a wedding.

Mi
Review №96

Great art with extensive explanations about artists, inspirations, and mediums. Really was a pleasure to see such artistic giants so close up and personal.

Li
Review №97

Always an interesting experience. I love that they do kid avtivites at noon on Saturdays.

Da
Review №98

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 wont be disappointed

Je
Review №99

Great place to see some contemporary art. Its free, but please throw a few dollars in the donation box to help keep it that way.

Bo
Review №100

Mariner Kemper, on the Board of Trustees at Kemper Museum is the CEO of UMB Bank. UMB Bank is collaborating with I.C.E. to sue Central Falls, RI for $130 million to continue to operate the Wyatt Detention Center and keep people detained by I.C.E. The Kemper Museum has five people on their Board of Trustees who either currently or recently worked for UMB: Mariner Kemper, Sandy Kemper, L. Joshua Sosland, Clyde Wendel, and Dennis Rilinger. UMB and Kemper, and by association the Kemper Museum, are complicit in the inhumane detention of people by ICE and the prison system. When confronted with this reality, they have ignored it, thereby condoning it. Please demand the Kemper Museum drop their trustees collaborating with I.C.E. It’s important to hold all institutions with any ties to ICE and/or prisons accountable. A just world would have no family separation, no detention, and no prisons.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111, United States
  • Site:http://www.kemperart.org/
  • Phone:+1 816-753-5784
Categories
  • Art museum
  • Museum
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:10am–4pm
  • Wednesday:10am–9pm
  • Thursday:10am–4pm
  • Friday:10am–4pm
  • Saturday:10am–4pm
  • Sunday:Closed
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:Yes
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