“Discover 200 Tons of Buried Treasure!!!”
This cargo steamboat, laden with 220 tons of merchandise destined for settlers out west, sank in the Missouri River in 1856, where it remained preserved in cold mud until it was excavated in the 1980s. A virtual time capsule of the 1850s and one of the best collections of pre-Civil War artifacts in the world, the museum provides a look at frontier life, with displays of the steamboat's cargo, from china and hardware to jewelry and leather boots (900 shoes and boots alone are on display). Tours begin with a film of the excavation and restoration of parts of the boat (which are now on display).
I love going to this museum! Every time I go it feels like a new experience!
I have been to the Arabia more than a dozen times. I absolutely love this museum! The collection they have is unique and timeless. The families gave so much to the public when they opened the Steamboat Arabia Museum!
Probably better for kids than adults.. I went with my parents (60’s) and we were all meh
While not free the collection & history found here as well worth the cost. Tour guides are full of so much detail they leave little question. It's very fascinating to get a glimpse of what life was like in the prairie mid 19th century. With plenty of places to eat nearby this is a place you could spend the better part of a day.
What a gem!! My husband and I were headed to Colorado and figured we'd make the stop and take the tour. We were pleasantly surprised and loved it. Located in an adorable market area of Kansas City. Would suggest it to anyone that has a love of history.
A bit pricey for a large family but informative. The large collection of items from the Arabia is fascinating and the displays are done well. We got to meet one of the men who found and excavated the site, that was neat. It is a clean and friendly place with a knowledgeable and friendly staff! Very clean restrooms too. We had young school aged kids, teens and adults, each one enjoyed the visit. A good stop to see and learn about a portion of American history that is not often taught.
Seeing this collection of actual merchandise from the mid-1800s that's been buried in a sunken riverboat for over 150 years not only altered my perception of American history, it blew my mind! Absolutely a must-see, and if you're lucky you'll even get to meet one of the people who helped dig up this treasure.
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Arabia Steamboat Museum
Hours
- Mon - Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Sun: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
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Outdoor Seating
Parking, Dining
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