Union Station was built in 1914. It was at its peak for passenger traffic towards the end of World War II, and began to decline in the 1950s, and was ultimately closed in 1985. After being restored, Union Station reopened in 1999, and offered a number of public attractions and museums. It once again became an active train station when Amtrak began providing train services in 2002. It is now the second busiest Amtrak train station in Missouri. The Grand Hall has 3,500 pound chandeliers hanging from its 95 foot ceiling. There is also a six foot clock hanging in the building’s central arch.
There is much to keep you busy at Union Station today. Start by enjoying the grandeur of the restored Union Station, and enjoy a large number of other attractions. While there are a number of temporary exhibits, there are also permanent theaters, a dance center which is home to the Kansas City Ballet, a five and a half stories 3-D movie screen, restaurants, shops, the Gottlieb Planetarium, the Irish Museum and Cultural Center, the Science City at Union Station, and much more. Science City offers a large number of events and resources. The Demo Area brings science to life, and the Dinolab and Digsite gives children a chance to learn about dinosaurs and paleontology. The Engineerium is perfect for hands-on learning in science, technology, math, and engineering subjects.

Science City at Union Station has about 200,000 visitors each year. The museum is filled with many items of interest and interactive displays that promote learning, including over 120 hands-on exhibits. The museum had been closed for a short time when Union Station was undergoing renovations. It re-opened towards the end of 1999.
Science City at Union Station offers the chance to learn about science in an interactive way.