Simply iconic. To start off Liberty Memorial is part of the National World War One Museum and Memorial. It's the only National monument to WWI in our country and every time I see it as part of our KC skyline I'm reminded of how cool that is. I've been here countless times, both just to enjoy it myself, and also to take friends and family that are visiting. It's the best place in town to get a photo of the skyline, and it's a gorgeous park to walk around and explore even if you don't do the museum (which I think you should). I most recently attended the Chappell Roan concert here and was amazed at how well the staff did in terms of keeping the area safe and clean. It's not a *perfect* venue in terms of sloping for stage views, but it makes up for that with ample viewing areas, tons of food vendors, and an unmatched backdrop. All in all this is a KC must visit, whether it's for views, a check on your KC itinerary, or a concert. It's a fantastic place in our great city. read more

See all

The Liberty Memorial is an awe-inspiring memorial to those who served in World War One fighting for democracy and freedom. This column is visible across the city and reminds people daily that freedom is not free and must be fought for every day. You can walk up to the top of the memorial with the purchase of a museum ticket. The Liberty Memorial is part of the WWI Museum. The museum is worth checking out! This memorial offers excellent views of the city and is a must see for tourists and locals alike! read more

See all

It's crazy that so few people know that you can go to the top of Liberty Memorial Tower because it is one of if not the best view of downtown Kansas City you'll find. And while it's a definite MUST for any visit to the National WWI Museum and Memorial, you don't have to visit the museum to purchase a ticket to the tower. I will say this isn't something I'd visit more than once year or so, but for a fantastic view of downtown Kansas City for only $6, I'd say it was more than worth it. You can see more of our experience on our YouTube travel channel: https://youtu.be/6X_5cDClGus read more

See all

There is an awesome memorial that I stopped by and saw and took pictures with and enjoyed myself. I definitely recommend it. It's in the heart of downtown and it's fun to see. read more

See all

This is a great spot in KC that I love to take out of towners, dates, friends, or family to visit. You can see the great KC downtown skyline. It's very peaceful, great place to have a picnic on a nice day or just explore around. It's also a great place to visit if you get a chance to go up the tower. You can purchase that online or in the museum with weather permitting. Going to the top feels great, not for the faint of heart who are scares of heights though. They lit the fire on the tower but you don't feel it when you're up that high. It's not handicapped accessible for those who need assistance though. There's some steps even after the elevator. But the views is worth it. It's a must see and do if you haven't done so. KC charms. read more

It's definitely worth a visit. The WW1 Museum is below for all the history buffs. It's quite a trek up the steps and around, so it's not easy for anyone with trouble walking. After getting tickets, there's a line to go up the elevator to get to the top. The most stoic guard scanned our tickets, but he was not a man of many words. Don't ask him any questions; he kind of grunts and lets out one- or two-word responses. The view of the city from the top was spectacular. We then went down to the WW1 Museum. It was a fun trip. Worth the drive there. read more

When visiting the WWI museum you also have the option to go up inside the Liberty memorial monument. There's an extra charge, but it's worth it. Beautiful views of KC that you can't get from anywhere else in the city. Highly recommend you do this on your next trip through town. And if you live here and you've never done this, it's past due for you. read more

We decided to come visit this museum since we were in the area. We came super late in the day and was worried about not being able to enjoy the place. We were able to find parking just fine and get tickets. We even got to up to the tower which was awesome. All of the staff members here are super nice. They had so many things to look at and everything was well preserved. The museum itself was also in great shape and super clean. The tower viewing is awesome with an awesome view of the city. Great place to take photos and even saw several wedding parties taking photos. Pretty cool to check out. Get here early in the day as there is plenty to look at! read more

Lush green space which is great for taking a break for some "self care", meditation, walk or a lunch break. read more

Liberty Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

Great exercise walking up that hill and all those stairs! Great experience and look out when you get to take the elevator to the top and see the spectacular view! read more

See all

Hadn't visited since 09'. Arrived too late to go up in the tower, but just in time for a beautiful sunset. Offers a spectacular of downtown KC! read more

See all

The Liberty Memorial is part of the WW1 Museum and Memorial. It consists of a tower (217' high from the plaza / 268' above the green plaza below) honoring WW1 veterans. It is not handicapped assessable but does have an elevator most of the way to the top. When you exit the elevator, you have 45 steps up a narrow spiral staircase to reach the top. It's worth the climb and the view from the top is beautiful. While here, be sure to visit the WW1 Museum and Memorial on both the plaza level and the underground museum. read more

See all

Liberty Memorial is where you will find the World War I Museum and the tower (known for the best views of the city). General admission to the World War I Museum is $16 that is good for a 2 day visit. But if you come on World War Wednesdays, you only pay $8 (and yes, this ticket is also good for a 2 day visit). Admission includes a visit up to the tower. But if you only wish to visit the tower and not the museum, it will cost $5. There are 2 exhibit halls at the base of the tower that should not be missed (there are restrooms inside each exhibit hall). Also the current exhibit out on the Liberty Memorial Courtyard is Fields of Battle, Lands of Peace: The Doughboys 1917-1918. The Liberty Tower is over 200 feet high. Along the top of the tower are four guardian spirits (carved by New York artist, Robert Aitken) that are said to be watching over the tower. The two Assyrian Sphinxes also guard the tower. One sphinxes faces towards the east, shielding it's eyes from the evils and horrors of battle. The other sphinxes faces towards the west, shielding it's eyes from the unknown future. Take the elevator ride up the tower, where you will see the views of the city. It is rather small and limited up here, but sure makes for some awesome, unforgettable photos. The Liberty Memorial at it's finest. read more

See all

I managed to visit just around sunset, which lit up the stones and the glass absolutely beautifully. A really wonderful structure and so much greenery around that it's a really unique icon for Kansas City. Well worth a stop if you're visiting the city. I didn't realize until I'd already left that you can go up! read more

See all

If you don't have a photo of the KC skyline from the top of the Liberty Memorial, you're doing KC a disservice! This is the best view to take in and appreciate this great city from. I remember going up in the Memorial as a kid and having the thrill of looking down on everything with open air all around. Last I checked, it's free to go up in it if you go to the World War I museum (5 stars by the way) and has a small cost if you don't visit the museum. I think it's really cool to honor the World War I veterans and the fact that there is one WWI monument in the US and this is it. It's an iconic part of the city, complete with a beautiful lawn around it and one that even if you don't go up it, you'll want to recognize it as you go by it. read more

Here it is, the large phallus to WWI. If Kansas City had an erection this would be it -spewing steam from the tip. Trivia: There is not a real fire. Steam comes from the tip top. The price tag for the steam and lights? About $45000 a year. Quite large, architecturally very minimal. Respectful of those that served. WWI is often the forgotten war due to WWII, but this memorial pays homage to those who served. Nice gift shop inside. The most cliche vantage point for photos of the city. I took my share of photos! read more

See all

Majestic architecture. I had to notice the tower, with its simulated eternal flame, in the evening hours from my hotel. It rose above the terrain more prominently than any other. While I visited Union Station, I found a good perspective from the ground. Its scale and symmetry reminded me of the temples of Egypt. Along with the foundation, the two buildings, and the tower, I noticed the setting on the hill. Side roads and stairways, a grassy terrace underneath, the hill itself became a pedestal. This led me further into the impression I had formed of Kansas City: wide streets, light traffic, abundant grass and trees. When I was only 20, I lived in Kansas City and I swore that I would never be without a car. Now I have lived in San Francisco without one for five years. While citizens of the coast may believe their home is the best place on earth, it would do them well to look on the Midwest, to see the vast open spaces, and to discover that the best place on earth is always wherever you are. read more

Liberty Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

The Liberty Memorial is that tall tower at the WW1 Museum. If you haven't been to the top, it's worth the trouble to go. The thrill of being so high and the view are exhilarating. Sofie and I rode the elevator to the top and then climbed the stairs a way to the viewing area. The view is of the Kansas City skyline. It was windy and scary being so high. All I could think of was me dropping my expensive Pixel XL phone over the edge to see it disappear out of sight and my shameful descent to the plaza to pick up the pieces as a crowd of spectators gathered around to look at me with that "what a chump!" expression on their faces. I put my phone in my pocket. I wasn't going to be a chump. The air in the passageway from the elevator to the top is stale from the thousands of people who passed through that hall. Wouldn't it be nice if someone put in fans to blow it all away? read more

Woohoo! If you are at all interested in WWI, you've got to go to this museum. The name is deceptive. The Liberty Memorial is the location of the national World War I Museum. The memorial was built in 1923. The museum was added in space under the memorial in 2004. And what a great job they did. A huge tip of the hat to the companies and individuals who contributed to the museum. I used to teach American history a zillion years ago. I would work with my students through the causes of the way, what brought the US into the war, the impact on civilian society of the war, and the consequences of the peace treaty. So it was with trepidation that I went to the museum. I was concerned that it would e superficial. Or jingoistic. Or overly focus on the U.S. Or focus on battles and not the causes. Or that it was an old museum with artifacts in cases and no context. No need to worry. The WWI Museum is extraordinary. It delves into the causes of the war. Half the museum focuses on the war before the US entered, half on what happened after the US declared war on Germany. The exhibits and explanations are cutting edge. There is even material on local soldiers and what they did in the war. My son and I spent three hours on one day and went back the next day to go up the tower and visit the two halls at the base of the tower. Even so, there was loads we didn't have time to explore in depth. The exhibit halls topside are a lagniappe. If you have to cut something, you can skip them. Question: Anyone been to both this and the WWII museum in Nola? How do they compare? read more

I came after the museum closed but it was such a beautiful day that it didn't matter. I could see the skyline and it reminded me how much Kansas City has to offer. Liberty memorial is beautiful location whether it's day or not and not just visitors love visit but you see locals walking and going for runs. read more

Liberty Memorial will always hold a special place in my heart as it is the site that my fiancee proposed to me. On clear nights you can view the "Eternal Flame" from miles around making it quite a sight to see. The illusion of the flame is created through lighted steam. Underneath the memorial lies the amazing National World War I Museum, easily one of the most impressive museums in the country. In order to go up the memorial, you must purchase admission to the museum but it is valid for 2 days making it a great deal. The view of the city especially the new Performing Arts Center from the top of the memorial is worth the money alone. And the perfectly-manicured lawn is an excellent spot for picnics, studying, or watching a random soccer practice. I do find the design of the memorial to resemble more of a fertility symbol especially with the sphinxes flanking the memorial. The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument located at Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis is more impressive. It's also sad that the museum must rely on private donations in order to keep the flame lit. Please go support this amazing national landmark! read more

Liberty Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

Although I have yet to tour the WWI Museum, I am a fan of Liberty Memorial. I have attended a couple of events there and it is a great space. Stadium style seating, good views of the stage, just a great place to have an event. Liberty Memorial has been the location of TedX UMKC for the last couple of years and it is a great experience. I also just love wondering around the grounds of the Liberty Memorial. Giant green spaces, one of the best skyline views of the city, and just a great area to hang out. read more

I have memories going up to the top of the tower as a little girl with my father and brother who now serves is Afghanistan. On behalf of him, I have began to volunteer at the memorial, in both the administrative offices and in the museum. I have just finished Martin Gilbert's World War I: A Complete History, and it captivated me. I now feel so fortunate to have this National museum in Kansas City and honestly believe it is the best thing we have here to offer the world (barbecue is wonderful, but the nation's only memorial of the first world war holds a certain gravity unmatched by anything else we offer!) I have found that the other 140 volunteers (mostly older gentleman, many of whom are veterans) to be utter scholars in war history. They have as much if not more experience and dedication and intrigue as any of the professors that have ever lectured to me on the east coast and I am absorbing as much as I can from them. The new museum (completed in 2006) is incredible. It really brings the war to life (as best a museum can) with simulation trenches spanning the east wing, with an actual tank, with the meditation rooms playing war songs and poems. And the museum finish was chilling - the way they displayed eight or so of those quotations on a double screen, so eerily telling of the future wars to come - I was blown away by the presentation of it all! While I was working today a woman from Los Angeles came up to me and asked why the government would ever think to pass a bill placing the national memorial somewhere else (in D.C.) with all that we have here...and I told her I had no idea. The Liberty Memorial was built on the backs of KC taxpayers and war veterans or family members of veterans around the country and therefore, adding a plaque stating its position as the national museum (of which it currently is) AND national monument would cost the government NOTHING!!! Kansas City deserves this recognition, for the Liberty Memorial is historic in its own right, a cornerstone of the city and nation, a destination for world travelers, and moving for those who have traveled either 1,000 miles or for people like me who live down the street and just realized what I've been missing. The new Over There cafe serves a great lunch, right next to the bookstore, so that now making an all-day visit to see everything on site is possible with the recent availability of sustenance and rest (especially for the many elderly who travel in groups here). I was stationed today at the entrance of the simulation Flander's Field on the sky bridge revealing a sea of 9,000 poppies (each one representing 1,000 casualties on both sides of the war totaling 9 million.) I watched hundreds of out-of-state visitors leave in a sort of awe and in only a day I was impacted. I can't wait to go back and volunteer again, hear more veteran's stories, and learn about the lives of those that fought and died in battle or lived to record their memories here in the memorial halls forever. read more

Liberty Memorial - It was a foggy day and I thought the photo would turn out more eerie because of it. I was right. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

If you have not seen the National World War I Museum (opened on Dec 2, 2006) and Liberty Memorial, you should. It is near Crown Center. In terms of grandeur and spectacle, it is not comparable to Stalin's little known memorial to the Second World War in a remote park of (east) Berlin. In terms of shock and horror, the WW1 memorial in KC is not comparable to the museum at Auschwitz in Poland or the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and nearby Killing Field in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. But in terms of the dignity with which it represents the dark side of history, the National WW1 Museum and Memorial is world class and is an outstandingly well-conceived and designed tribute to those who fought and died in the Great War. You will need at least 2 hours to see and absorb what is here. Don't miss the 10 minute movie at the entrance to the museum, since it frames what follows. read more

One of my all time favorite sites in Kansas City, a must-see for visitors. Breathtaking views, stunning architecture on immaculately kept grounds. I've made it a project over the years to document the skyline as it changes from year to year. On a spur of the moment, I went up yesterday-perfect, clear, warm-but-not-hot day. The elevator operators are always friendly and are well-informed about the memorial. While I was up there, I met a group from Oregon and got to play KC Goodwill Ambassador-pointed out the sites downtown and suggested more places to see. They love the city, and it was fun giving a shout-out to my favorite places. And there's NO better place to take pictures... I hear the WWI museum is worth the trip...someday I'll make time for that too. read more

Liberty Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

The Liberty Memorial is our 'great monument' or 'post card landmark'. It has beautiful art deco architecture (of course, this is KC) and an amazing location. The skyline views just from the platform are amazing...not to mention the views from the top of the tower. The lighting effects at night are beautiful and unique. The giant eternal flame concept is almost magical. It's easy to look at this grand urban space with the liberty memorial at one end and Union Station on the other and imagine you are in KC during our Depressions Era heyday. The grounds could be spruced up a bit, more trees and flowers could be planted...but then again, it was practically abandoned just 10 years ago, so we are making progress. The museum inside is great, but that's another review. For those that don't know, the memorial is in KC and not DC simply because KC residents raised the money for it back in the 1920s. Back then we had a real 'can-do spirit', something that has had a resurgence in the last decade. read more

Liberty Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

Great historical site. Also a great site to see downtown KC and there are plenty of locations to take amazing wedding, graduation, or professional photos. I highly recommend visiting here read more

This is the most AMAZING military museum that I have ever seen and I'm a huge history/military buff. The price is quite low and I suggest you get the tickets to go to the top of the tower (it has an elevator so you won't be climbing steps). The ground are well landscaped and quite attractive from the Sphinxes to the terraced grounds by the reflecting pool, to the glass ceiling, and the beautiful view of the city. Let's get to the museum. It's under ground. You go through these huge brass doors and it's very tastefully done as a memorial to WWI as well as a military museum. There are many interactive exhibits (multimedia touch). Quite a few movies. You can find tanks, guns, artillery pieces, shells, life size soldiers, uniforms, and lots of maps and reliefs with historical graphs. What was the most amazing part? Well, they have a movie that plays to a large area that looks like the trenches with soldiers down there and light shows. Really really cool! This helps you understand what the soliders encountered in Europe and how they suffered for years. If you're visiting Kansas City and you love history or you're a VET, you MUST see this!!!! read more

I was in Kansas City for only a couple of days and paid a visit to this place. I've always been interested in military history and knew this would be right up my alley. It was $14 for a two-day pass. However, I didn't really see the need to come back for a second day. I did not get the audio package since they were out, but in no way did I feel like my experience was hurt by not having it. The tour started with a 12 minute movie explaining the socio-political climate leading up to the war and set the stage for a tour through the three major exhibition rooms. The first room covered the pre-U.S. involvement years which were 1914-1917. Amongst the relics and photos there were plenty of storyboards or narratives. The second room is actually a giant theater which played another movie explaining how the U.S. got involved in the war. This was a great transition to the third room which covered the years when the U.S. was now a part of the war or 1917-1918. All-in-all, I thoroughly enjoyed my time. There were plenty of things to look at: photographs, weapons, clothes, post cards, listening booths, interactive exhibits, and even a mock crater to illustrate the massive destructive power of the munitions used at the time. Many people recommend going up the tower, but the line was really long so I skipped it. Lastly, I thought the staff/volunteers were extremely nice, knowledgeable and helpful. If you like U.S. and world history, I would say that this is a "must-see" if you ever find yourself in Kansas City. read more

This memorial is one of Kansas City's greatest treasures. Standing as an eternal memorial to those who served and sacrificed in World War One. Atop of the central tower is an "eternal flame" that glows every night giving our city a distinct and beautiful landmark. If you are looking for a new perspective the Liberty Memorial has them in spades. Take an afternoon and enjoy the National World War I Museum where you will be privy to America's largest collection of WWI artifacts displayed in a succinct and powerful manner. Or you can take a ride to the top of the tower and see Kansas City and the surrounding area stretching out around you. The memorial itself sits on top of one of Kansas City's many hills and while the beautiful structure is well worth a sightseeing trip, the grounds surrounding should be noted too. A leisurely walk about is recommended as there are many details in this homage to our past that should not be missed. History is alive and well here. read more

I had never been to Liberty Memorial until my boyfriend was visiting from out of town. I was researching activities to do over the 4th of July weekend and the WWI museum came up. Even though I had grown up in the KCMO area, I had never even heard around this museum until a few days before our visit. Let me just say, it blew me away. The museum is FANTASTIC. It's educational, interactive and we actually wished we had planned to spend more time. We had only allotted two hours, therefore we had to rush around to fit everything in. I would definitely suggest going when it opens in the morning and clearing your schedule for the rest of the day. The entire museum is amazing. The entrance, the glass bridge over the field of "poppies," the layout of the museum, the rotating exhibit (when we went it was uniforms from different countries) and even the gift shop. Everything about the experience was fun and we will definitely go back at some point! Tips: -Go early, its much bigger than it looks -Good for children, though younger kids may not quite get the entire experience -Would be a great place for a Boy Scout Troop field-trip -Make sure you grab a map (the building is set up a little confusing) -Eat before you go (they have a cafe, but its expensive) -Take the time to listen to the majority of the audio read more

The Liberty Memorial will always be one of the most memorable spots for me in Kansas City. Not only is it visible on most drives in and out of the city, but the views from the memorial are the best KC has to offer. You can see the entire downtown skyline, which makes for great photo ops. It got its official designation as a National Memorial in 2004 and museum that lies beneath the memorial is the only nation museum dedicated entirely to WWI. I thought the meaning behind the huge winged lions on each side of the tower was especially poignant. The one facing east is named Memory and shields its face from the horrors of the battlefields in Europe. The one facing west, Future, shields its face from the unseen future. If you can, make a trip to the top of the tower. You'll ride in an elevator to the top, then climb some stairs that lead you to a large balcony that circles the top. While this probably won't be much fun in the bitter cold, the view is definitely worth it. Especially at night. read more

The Liberty Memorial is a 217-foot tower honoring those who served in The Great War. Completed in 1926 and fully restored for 2002, the tower offers an amazing view of Union Station and the Kansas City skyline to anyone who can brave the smallish elevator and the 40-step skinny staircase to the top. Not wheelchair accessible! Part of The National World War I Museum, also a must-see in Kansas City. read more

There are so many amazing things about the memorial. The museum is educational and throuough. The structure is gorgeous and unique. I REALLY need to go to the top, somehow I haven't done this yet. But...the view of downtown from here is one of my favorite places in the entire city to take pictures. The entire location actually is a photographers dream. No matter where the sun is, there are plenty of places to get some great shots. read more

Everyone in KC knows this place, and if you haven't been here...come. Everyone from out of town...KC doesn't have the biggest or best skyline in America, but it's lovely nonetheless, especially with places like Union Station and the Kauffman Center on the skyline. And, this place has the best view of the skyline - hands down. It's free to park and free to wander around here. The museum below is great...$12 to get in for adults. If you have time, check it out, but if you don't have time or are are on the cheap, visiting the memorial is a great way to check out the skyline. read more

I go to the memorial every Wednesday for a group workout (November Project), and it is BEAUTIFUL there. The memorial is monolithic, the stairs are a great place for a workout, and the view of the city is gorgeous. I was there on veteran's day, and it just felt magical. Never have been to the museum, though!! read more

We decided to take advantage of the 2 for 1 promo and visit the memorial museum. I'm not a huge war person but I do like history. The museum has a very impressive collection that needs more than enough time to take it all in. One of my favorite partsof the memorial is the poppy exhibit that is right inside the entrance that represents all those we lost in WWI. A perfect representation, in my opinion. Outside the grounds are immaculate, with one of the best KC photo op landscapes to be found. On warm days, you can always find us spending a leisurely day under one of the beautiful trees there. I like the peaceful feeling that surrounds this place. P.S. One time in the tower is more than enough for me. Maybe we hit it on a busy day because it was very crowded. Not good. I'm a bit claustophobic and the narrow, winding steps, along with too many people caused me to slightly panic. I couldn't even enjoy the view up top. Hello, capacity limit!! Save it for a day that there aren't many people. Or don't and say you did. read more

Alright, maybe it was because Barack Obama graced us with his presence or maybe this is the first park that captured my heart since moving here, but I find Liberty Memorial beautiful. At Liberty Memorial they constructed a wonderful open space with a huge phallic monument and a view of downtown Kansas City. Nevermind that its home to the WWI museum, which has its own posting, but the wide stone steps, the open grass areas and the epic lighting highlighting the tower makes this simply a breathtaking park. I have heard to not go into the woods around here, which I can't tell if it's rumored fear or for actual knowledge of bad things happening. I can imagine recreational drug use would be in full swing (it is a pretty place), but then there's hard core scary drug use which is different. I'm not sure... read more

Are you a history buff? Then this is the place for you. The Liberty Memorial is a beautiful museum with interesting films, exhibits and artifacts galore. read more

Liberty Memorial - Liberty Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

I love this park, it's almost as good as a loose park. It is my second favorite park in Kansas City Missouri. The location of Liberty Memorial and the surrounding park is prime real estate for whatever your days activities may be! Do you just want to read at the park, do you want to just walk your dog, do you want to go for a good run, would you like to go to the museum -which is AMAZING,or would you just like to sit in your car and write Yelp reviews? No matter which of these activities you choose the Liberty Memorial and the surrounding Park definitely deserve a five out of five stars on that Yelp 'park spectrum'! read more

See all