Mansions, museums and one-room schools: Kansas City’s historic holiday spots to see
.JPG "Vaile Mansion in Independence will be dressed this year for Victorian Christmas Magic.")
Kansas City’s rich history can be explored throughout the holidays. Experience some Christmas cheer while also learning about the past and some historical events that made the city what it is today.
Old mansions and schools are decked out with holiday magic and are inviting the community to check them out. The Star’s service journalism team selected a few locations for the city to enjoy.
Strawberry Hill Museum
Journey through an Olde World Christmas at the Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center. Built in 1887, the Victorian mansion celebrates the many European nationalities in Kansas City.
Scheduled tours are available every Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. from now until Jan. 9. Tickets cost $10 for ages 12 and up, $6 for ages 6-12 and are free for children under 6. They can be purchased here.
Bingham-Wagonner Historical Society
Organized to preserve the history of the Queen City of the Trails, the Bingham-Wagonner Mansion and Estate is open for holiday tours. Sitting on 19 acres in Independence, take a look at original furnishings and paintings of wealthy 19th century residents.
It’s open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12. The final day is Dec. 30.
Vaile Mansion
The 1881 three-story mansion was described as “the most princely house and the most comfortable home in the entire west” and now open for tours. It has 31 rooms, nine marble fireplaces and a 48,000 gallon wine cellar.
It’s open every Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and every Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m until Dec. 30. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12 and tickets can be purchased at the door.
Wornall House
The five senses will be put to the test at the Wornall House this holiday season. Decorated in its Christmas best, tour the house, enjoy the music, food and leave with a take-home craft that anyone can make.
It’s open from 6-9 p.m. on Dec. 10. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children and can be purchased here.
Rice-Tremonti Home
The historic home dates back to 1844 and was built on the Santa Fe Trail, the Holiday Open House brings festive decorations, holiday treats and stocking stuffers.
It’s open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec 11-12.
Lanesfield Country Christmas
Travel back to 1904 and experience an old-fashioned Christmas at the Lanesfield Historic Site. Write to Santa, who’ll be in attendance, and find some presents at the gift shop.
It’s happening from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m on Dec. 11. The Edgerton Rainbow Connection Children’s Choir will perform at 1:30 p.m.
