riverboat kansas city

— OPEN FOR VISITORS —

The arabia steamboat museum, recovered 1988.

THE ARABIA STEAMBOAT MUSEUM 

A popular Kansas City attraction for more than 25 years 

When the mighty Steamboat Arabia sank near Kansas City on September 5, 1856, she carried 200 tons of mystery cargo. Lost for 132 years, its recovery in 1988 was like finding the King Tut’s Tomb of the Missouri River. The discovery was truly a modern day treasure-hunting story at its best.

The artifacts are preserved and displayed at the Arabia Steamboat Museum, located in the historic City Market. From clothing, fine china and carpentry tools to guns, dishes and children’s toys to the world’s oldest pickles—the collection captivates visitors of all ages. Whether it’s your first visit to this favorite Kansas City attraction or you come every year, the treasures of the Steamboat Arabia will connect you to American history in a new and exciting way.

INTRODUCING THE NATIONAL STEAMBOAT MUSEUM

The Arabia is an incredible story ... but there are other stories to tell. Hundreds of 1800s steamboats were lost to the Missouri River, hidden deep beneath riverbeds and farmfields. The National Steamboat Museum will be the pre-eminent historical and educational facility of our nation's long-lost steamboats and the stories they carried.

The National Steamboat Museum's vision is to discover, recover, and preserve other collections similar to that of the Arabia Steamboat for the cultural, historical and educational benefit of future generations.

Please donate here to help make this new, state-of-the-art facility a reality.

Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.*

Noon - 5:00 p.m.*

*Closed on New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Closed one hour early on Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Halloween and New Year's Eve.

Visit includes a series of short videos that show the story of this historic excavation and a short movie. Guests will see the treasures recovered from the Arabia and watch preservationists restoring artifacts in our lab.

Arabia Steamboat Museum 400 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64106

(816) 471-1856

[email protected]

THE BEST Kansas City Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in kansas city.

• Kayaking & Canoeing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. KC Kayak & Canoe

Museum of the Moment: Arabia Steamboat Museum

September 18, 2019

What good can come from a shipwreck? Quite a lot, actually.

Get to know the Arabia Steamboat Museum , one of Kansas City’s most unique historical attractions—offering an in-depth glimpse into 19 th century frontier life of the American West.

The History

Before the United States was connected by railroads, the noble riverboat ruled the transportation industry, particularly in the still-developing West.

The Missouri River was once a hotbed for this interstate commerce and travel. Dangerous though it was—fallen trees and other hidden obstacles could easily snag and cripple unsuspecting boats—merchants and passengers alike utilized riverboats to traverse miles and miles of country, either to capitalize on business ventures or to search for new lives.

The Arabia Steamboat Museum tells a story of the American West through the lens of the ill-fated Steamboat Arabia, which met its demise in the middle of the 19 th century and remained hidden for 132 years.

The Shipwreck

Steamboat Arabia was constructed in Pennsylvania in 1853. The 171-foot boat could hold up to 222 tons of cargo, as well as passengers, and regularly made trips along the Missouri River during an era when settlements in Westport and Independence were best-known as jumping off points for the Santa Fe, California and Oregon trails.

After only three years on the water, Steamboat Arabia hit a snag of its own in September 1856. It only took a few minutes, but 200 tons of cargo was completely surrendered to the river. Thankfully, this tale is significantly less tragic than other infamous shipwrecks, because all 150 passengers and crew escaped safely.

However, the ship’s cargo remained embedded in the earth for more than 100 years. In 1988, a local father and his two sons learned Steamboat Arabia’s story and discovered its wreckage 45 feet underground—soil and erosion had shifted the path of the river—less than a half-mile away from the current channel of the Missouri.

Two more friends joined the trio and, four and a half months later, excavated the shipwrecked cargo—the single largest collection of pre-Civil War items in the world.

The Arabia Steamboat Museum displays this fascinating collection of artifacts once thought forever lost to history.

Visitors can ride the KC Streetcar to the institution, located at The City Market in Kansas City’s charming River Market neighborhood. There, they’ll find a time capsule depicting frontier life during the middle of the 19 th century.

Treasures include clothing, weaponry and tools, as well as everyday items like sweet pickles, liquor, ketchup and fruit preserves—all of which was originally destined for the shelves of pioneer general stores. As a result, museumgoers can truly step back in time to get a taste of the routine lives of the region’s recent ancestors.

Tours of the facility—open seven days a week—run every 30 minutes on the hour and at the half hour, beginning first with a 20-minute guided intro followed by a short film. The remainder of the experience is self-paced, and in whole, the museum recommends expecting at least an hour and a half to view every exhibit.

The Arabia Steamboat Museum Virtual Tour

Welcome to the Arabia's 360° virtual tour!

Click on the tour below to access.

Steamboat Arabia Virtual Tour

We hope you enjoy visiting the museum from afar.

Once you purchase the tour, you will be able to explore the museum for 24 hours.

Click anywhere you seen a yellow icon for more information, and let us know if you have any additional questions!

Please note, this is still a beta version of the virtual tour, and we are still working on perfecting it. It works on mobile, but is not completely optimized yet. We welcome your feedback to help make it better in the future, so please email us at [email protected] if you have any comments. Thanks for being one of the first to take our Virtual Tour!

Theme: Illdy . © Arabia Steamboat Museum 2021. All Rights Reserved.

200 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64112

Call 816-365-7101  for a reservation! |  Phone answered 8 am - 10 pm Sun - Sat

BUY A GIFT CARD

In order to use gift cards, please call  816-365-7101 for reservations.

“Schedule Your Visit Today!”

For same day bookings after 4pm, please call for availability. 

Located on the Majestic Country Club Plaza River Walk, Ambiance on the Water is one of Kansas City’s favorite 5 Star romantic destinations on the Country Club Plaza. No trip to the Country Club Plaza would be complete without a graceful and romantic glide down the relaxing waterway in an elegant Venetian style Gondola boat . Float beneath bridges, besides majestic fountains, and view the spectacular nightlife of the unique Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri. Come enjoy a romantic evening out or celebrate a special occasion after enjoying a remarkable dinner at one of the Plaza’s many top acclaimed restaurants. We will entertain you for a delightful evening out under the stars that you and your loved one, friends, or family will never forget. Reservations are definitely recommended due to limited time slots availability, but walk ups are welcome.

Tips are kind of customary and greatly appreciated by your gondolier. .

Call or Text at  816-365-7101 or schedule a reservation online today.

Create Lasting Memories Out On The Water

Gondola Packages

• Our Romance Package
• Our Standard Package
• Our Special Occasion Packages
• Our For Your Eyes Only Package
• Our Group Rates

Make A Date Night Reservation

Normal gondola boat hours are from Wednesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm and (other days are available by appointment). The length of rides will vary from approximately 20-30 minutes depending on which package you purchase. For same day bookings after 4pm, please call for availability. Our season begins April 1st and ends November 30th, however, weather can always shorten or lengthen our season. Gift cards are available throughout the year.

Contact Information

200 Ward Parkway

Kansas City, MO 64112

816-365-7101

Phone answered 8 am - 10 pm Sun - Sat

[email protected]

Business Hours

Sun - Mon - Tues: By Appointment Only

Wed - Sat: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

April 1st to Nov 14th 

Nov 15th to Nov 30th: by Appointment Only, Weather Permitting

Payment Options

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation & No Show Policy

Refund Policy

Privacy Policy

Exploring the Heartland: Missouri River Cruises from Kansas City

• Date: May 29, 2023
• Time to read: 7 min.

Short answer for Missouri River Cruises in Kansas City:

Missouri river cruises in Kansas City offer scenic views, historic landmarks and narrated tours. Popular options include the 90-minute sightseeing cruise along the downtown skyline or the longer excursion to Parkville. Experienced boat captains and crew onboard provide informative commentary about this mighty river’s rich history.

How to Plan Your Dream Missouri River Cruise Experience in Kansas City

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines leisurely river cruising with the stunning scenery and lively culture of Kansas City, look no further than a dream Missouri River Cruise. With so many options to choose from, planning your perfect trip can seem overwhelming – but fear not! We’ve put together some expert tips and tricks to help you plan your ultimate Missouri River Cruise adventure .

1. Choose the right time of year

The first step in planning any successful river cruise is choosing the ideal season for your trip. In Kansas City, summer (June through August) offers warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities, while fall (September through November) boasts beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. Spring (March through May) is also lovely if you don’t mind a little rain here or there. Winter cruises are not recommended due to snowfall and ice on the river.

2. Select your cruise line

Choosing which cruise company fits best with your interests can be challenging because most offer different itineraries on either end of the price spectrum. American Queen Steamboat Company provides luxurious rides on authentic paddlewheel boats, while Bristow Adventures specializes in eco-tours via kayaks or canoes – offering wildlife sightings beyond what other tours provide.

3. Decide how long you’d like to be aboard

Cruises offer various durations— anywhere from one day excursions up to ten days treks — so figure out whether a short escape just outside Kansas City does the trick or diving deep down its roots as part of more extended trips works better.

4. Consider additional amenity packages available during port stops

Many shore excursions offered by tour companies may interest tourists who want another layer added onto their vacations besides sight seeing– such as wine tastings at local vineyards near Hermann or hot air balloon flights over St Joseph’s rolling hillsides with Midland Aviation.. Make sure whatever package comes along complements all aspects ensuring maximum enjoyment from start to finish.

5. Plan shore excursions off the beaten path

Aside from organized tour-sponsored destinations like Mammoth Cave State Park and Museum in Glasgow, or Truman Library & Museum that offers interactive exhibits on America’s 33rd president, branching out is possible with a few Google searches beforehand depending on personal interests. Want to get up close views of breathtaking wildlife? Take a historical journey back through German roots at Missouri Rhineland wineries? Explore any number of smaller towns found along the river banks such as Hermann (known for its annual Oktoberfest) or Weston, known for whiskey distilleries and quaint B&Bs.”

6. Manage River Navigation Logistics

Plotting an effective route schedule should not be underestimated when embarking upon your own unique river adventure experience. Take into account types of locks which may slowdown transit times during certain cruising hours; planned dredging sites slated throughout seasons where some channel mobility could temporarily decrease capacity levels affecting passage through targeted areas; detours can also occur due to unforeseen maintenance work related but virtually necessary given how long ago these structures

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking and Embarking on a Missouri River Cruise in Kansas City

If you’re looking for a unique and refreshing way to explore the Midwestern United States, embarking on a Missouri River cruise is an excellent choice. Kansas City, located at the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas rivers, offers some of the most exciting river cruises in this region.

With so many options available for booking your Missouri River cruise in Kansas City, it’s essential that you know what to expect before you embark on this adventure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help make your trip unforgettable:

Step 1: Choose Your Cruise

The first thing you need to do is determine which type of cruise best suits your interests. Are you interested in historical tours or dining experiences with stunning river views? There are plenty of options available to select from such as Happy Hour Cruises that offer an exhilarating atmosphere after work hours or Dinner Cruises that provide elegant dining along with picturesque views. Some popular choices include “A Taste Of The Mediterranean” Cruise or Set Sail With Santa!

Step 2: Reserve Your Spot

Once you have decided which type of Missouri River cruiser is right for you, visit their website offering online reservations or simply call their customer service helpline for detail about dates & times by providing insight into availability etc.

You will be able to reserve your spot on-board without any hassle but keep yourself reminded by filling up all information as per company’s policies such as particular number people traveling together including infants/ children (if applicable).

Step 3: Pack Appropriately

Make sure you pack appropriately depending upon time and season while steering clear off clothing panic packing routine following ways: • Check weather conditions prior setting sail • Casual comfortable clothing during daytime excursions • Dress well- especially if opting Dinner Cruisers where dressing up formal will enhance experience. Don’t forget getting comfy-footwear along with-right accessories suiting specific style like hats,sunglasses handy sunscreen protection under hot sun glare can ensure good times ahead.

Step 4: Arrive Early

Allow for time to get through security checks and formalities as well as finding the parking lot before embarking. Since cruise timings are set, it’s better to be early than late. Arriving early allows one not only to prep themselves but also allows tour guides or customer service teams on board with enough space available for handling things smoothly during busy hours.

Step 5: Board the Ship

Take home an unforgettable experience by being able to board a Missouri River cruiser- allowing ample opportunity for astonishing scenic views of the area surrounding Kansas City!. Once aboard, start indulging yourself into conversing with fellow passengers, open-air decks around you in order to genuinely appreciate this magnificent journey .

Embarking on a Missouri River cruise is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of America’s heartland while experiencing first-hand history & culture along its banks. Whether opting Dinner Cruise or Happy Hour Cruse that offer vivid red & orange sunset hues over wide waters lapping at shores, hopping onboard boat-based excursions will make sure dining out experiences don

Frequently Asked Questions about Missouri River Cruises in Kansas City: Everything You Need to Know

Are you considering a Missouri River cruise in Kansas City but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some frequently asked questions about Missouri River cruises that will help guide your decision-making process.

1. What is a Missouri River Cruise?

A Missouri River Cruise is where you get aboard a vessel and travel along the flowing waters of the iconic river surrounded by stunning landscapes and exquisite vistas as it cuts through different cities, towns and states in America’s heartland.

The concept has gained immense popularity in recent times as it offers unprecedented views of nature elements that might be difficult to access otherwise like lush green forests, historic structures on either side and other picturesque locations like waterfront gourmet restaurants or vineyards.

2. How long do these Cruises usually last?

Although various packages vary depending on what company you choose from for your adventure downriver, most cruises can take anywhere between two hours to four days depending upon how much time visitors would like to put into exploring the beauty of surrounding areas.

3. Are there any age restrictions?

There aren’t any official age restrictions per se when it comes to taking a ride down the majestic river thanks to its calm nature -but supervising minors below 18 years with caring guardians’ is generally suggested..

4. Can I bring my pets?

Most river cruise lines have strict policies regarding pets onboard due due lack of availability accommodation wise aboard ships although few exception may exist inform of small indoor dog breeds accepted inside kennels equipped onboard which will then relieve passengers from excessive worrying over missing their furry little friends back home!

5.What type of food options are available during this kind of cruising experience?

Food menus typically depends on length excursions hot bites and Beverages options such as beer , cocktails etc – may include comfort favorites with Midwest influences offered alongside well-known global cuisines! Furthermore for Health conscious people vegan , gluten-free dietary preferences all become catered offering lighter meals options upon request based on a meal plan.

6. What should I bring for the cruise?

Also depending on kind of activity aboard you can pack clothing items such as swimming gear, sunscreen lotion and wear comfortable shoes if planning to walk around scenic spots at shore points during off board halt; Above all, keep in mind that Missouri River cruises are captivating experiences offering miles of stunning environments, which aim to provide adequate entertainment and will allow for an enjoyable experience – whether with friends or family!

Kansas City’s river views present ideal backdrops whatever your interests- getting your tickets booked now will get you closer to the Blue Mountains, where your soul is sure to be stirred by fireworks shows against Mississippi Valleys’ tranquil golden sunset moments giving well-assuredly satisfy eyes & heart alike.

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Kansas City's steamboat museum is gonna need a bigger space to add more sunken vessels

In its search for a facility large enough to hold future additions to its collection, the Arabia Steamboat Museum may have to leave Kansas City.

David Hawley has been hunting sunken Missouri steamboats since 1988 when he, along with his father, brother and two friends, went looking for and found the Steamboat Arabia — 45 feet underground in a field where the Mighty Mo once flowed.

That led to The Arabia Steamboat Museum in the City Market in Kansas City, Missouri, and sent Hawley on a continuing quest to find five other steamboats from the hundreds that sank in the river. His goal is to have one boat from each decade of the Missouri River's steamboat era and place them all in one National Steamboat Museum.

And Hawley has found some. The Malta is resting under a cornfield near the town named for it, Malta Bend, and the Radnor remains under the Missouri's waters near Boonville.

But with the Arabia Museum "bursting at the seams," until a new space is found that can accommodate all future boats, the Malta, the Radnor, their cargo and the stories they tell of America's westward expansion remain buried.

• David Hawley , owner, The Arabia Steamboat Museum

Casino KC Review

Mike is our Senior Editor and experienced gambling strategist . A former hockey player, he transitioned to the casino industry after finishing his B.A. in English. Blackjack systems, online casino guides, gambling terms, and more - Mike is familiar with all fine points of gambling.

Casino KC in Kansas City— formerly Isle of Capri Kansas City is a classy riverboat casino, permanently docked on the Missouri River. ... You can board the riverboat and you’ll be faced with a casino floor filled with slots and table games, not to mention quality dining and drinking options where you can refuel, recharge, and let off steam.

• Casino KC Gambling and Games

Casino KC Venues and Services

• Casino KC Contacts and About
• Casino KC FAQ

Gambling in Casino KC

Spread over 28,000 square feet, the Casino KC floor carries the one-two punch of slot machines and table games as their casino’s bread and butter. In small casinos like this, the poker tables are often the facet of the casino that is forsaken, so it's to be expected here in a small riverboat.

Casino Games

• Colossal Wizards
• Spartacus Gladiator of Rome
• Forbidden Dragons
• Queen of the Wild II
• Lazer Lock Ice Sapphire
• Let it Ride
• Limit Holdem
• No Limit Holdem
• Crazy 4 Poker
• Fortune Pai Gow
• Sharp Shooter
• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• Any 2 Card Blackjack
• Hand-Held Deck
• Single Deck
• Double Deck
• Chuck-A-Luck
• 75 Ball Bingo
• 90 Ball Bingo
• Daily Lotto Draws
• Mini Lottos
• Electronic Craps
• Electronic Blackjack
• Electronic Roulette
• Electronic 3-Card Poker

Dining, Bars, and Entertainment

The Casino KC has a handful of dining options to satisfy (almost) all tastes, with three restaurants covering the needs of the patrons. Also on offer at the casino is a relaxing bar where you can kick your feet up after a busy night.

• Tradewind's Marketplace

Bars & Night Life

Contacts and about casino kc, how to get to casino kc.

Casino KC is located on the Missouri River in Kansas City, just a few minutes from the downtown area

• Public Transport Bus 77
• Shuttle Service KCI Shuttle
• Nearest Highway I-29
• Parking Slots RV Parking

Frequently Asked Questions

When was casino kc opened, how old do you have to be to gamble at casino kc, does casino kc offer free parking.

If you’re looking for a quaint riverboat casino in the classic Mississippi style, Casino KC in Kansas City MO ticks that box. It offers some quality games, in the form of slots and table games, and some great dining options where you can have your fill. In addition to that, we also enjoyed:

• The multi level car park
• Drinking at Pulse Bar
• Learning about the 20-year history

Disclaimer: With regard to any changes related to the information about a casino, we won't be held responsible if such differences occur. We advise our readers to double-check the official website of the casino for the most accurate information.

• Responsible Gambling
• Contributors
• How We Rate

World’s first stadium dedicated to women’s sports opens in Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Mo. ( KCTV /Gray News) - History was made Saturday in Kansas City as the first soccer game was played at a new stadium specifically dedicated to a women’s sports team.

Fans filled the CPKC Stadium with the colors of the Kansas City Current, teal and red, as the team played against the Portland Thorns.

A number of fans arrived at the 11,500 seat stadium early to watch the team hit the field, including Current ticket holder Lea Kennedy.

“Just really grown to be a really big fan of women’s soccer over the years, so I’m just so excited that we are able to have this team and have this great stadium,” she said.

Many came to the game in extravagant attire, including scarves and top hats, among much more.

“Today called for something a little bit fancier than normal,” season ticket holder Jennifer Gall said.

The stadium is located in Berkley Riverfront, a location in downtown Kansas City by the Missouri River, so some fans used rideshare options, while others took one of many shuttles or purchased parking passes.

As games at the new stadium gain popularity, Current fans said they hope the transportation options continue to grow.

“Any new endeavor has growing pains, I guess, so we are just trying to keep a positive, open mind,” Gall said.

No matter the trek, thousands still showed up to witness history.

“Today just means so much more, just being a woman and having girls,” said Current season ticket holder Tamiko Turner.

The Current shared before the season started that the KC Streetcar will eventually be an option to get to the games as well.

The Current won their game against the Portland Thorns 5-4.

Copyright 2024 KCTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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KCK Police identify man found dead near Kansas River

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (KCTV) - A 40-year-old man has been identified as the dead body found near the Kansas River on Saturday morning.

KCKPD announced Tuesday that 40-year-old Sean Myers, a Shawnee resident, was found late Saturday morning near the 12th Street bridge.

READ MORE: Investigation opens after angler finds deceased man near Kansas River in KC

Police said their investigation revealed that Myers had been in the area fishing. Detectives said they didn’t believe any foul play was involved.

Copyright 2024 KCTV. All rights reserved.

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