National Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City

The National Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City in Kansas City Missouri 64068 is home to the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the largest collections of historic toys that are currently on public display. It was formerly known as the Kansas City Toy and Miniature Museum when it was established in 1982 featuring the collections of Mary Harris Francis and Barbara Hall Marshall. The two women were avid collectors and lifelong friends. The museum is located in the historic Tureman Mansion on the University of Missouri – Kansas City campus. At the time of opening, the 7,500 square-foot museums had two full-time staff members. Since then, the museum has undergone two expansions, growing to 33,000 square feet. The collection also increased to over 72,000 objects. The museum currently has more than 86,000 objects in its collection. 

The toy collection reflects society’s cultural beliefs, technological advancements, and the array of children’s toys from the 18th century to the present. The toy collection features 59,591 objects. The museum’s oldest doll is Georgiana, an English wooden doll circa 1750, who stands just over 26 inches tall and has a wig made from human hair. The museum’s fine-scale miniature collection includes architectural work, room settings, fine art, decorative art, tools, equipment, and figures made to scale (usually 1:12). The miniatures are often working reproductions of objects in the full-scale world created by master artists. The miniatures collection features 20,763 objects. 

The museum hosts special events throughout the year for adults and families. The gift shop also has a number of unique items that are available for purchase. 

This is the perfect place to explore with your friends or family providing a day full of nostalgia. The museum seeks to educate, inspire, and delight adults and children through the museums’ collection and preservation of toys and miniatures. Make sure to check the museum’s website for current and upcoming exhibits and events. 

Lakeside Nature Center 

Langley Recycling Inc. Kansas City