Its rich collections bring together masterpieces from every culture and period of the world, spanning over 5,000 years. The Museum opened its doors in 1933 as a gift to the community from William Rockhill Nelson (1841-1915), founder of The Kansas City Star. Contributions from the estate of Mary McAfee Atkins (1836-1911) helped complete the building.

The Nelson-Atkins has prestigious collections of European and American art, but it is known above all for its magnificent collection of Asian art, notably the arts of China. The Chinese collection comprises masterpieces from every phase of Chinese art. The bronze age (1200 B.C. to 500 B.C.) is especially well represented in a series of ceremonial vessels and weapons.

Modern sculpture is another area of distinction, both inside the Museum and outdoors in The Kansas City Sculpture Park, which features the country’s largest collection of monumental bronzes by British sculptor Henry Moore as well as works by other modern masters.

The Museum is also home to outstanding collections of ancient art, decorative arts, African art and American Indian art. In addition to the permanent collection, visitors may enjoy an ever-changing schedule of special exhibitions organized by the Nelson-Atkins and other institutions. We hope our web site will aid you in planning a personal visit to discover for yourself these inspiring works of mankind’s imagination.

Rozzelle Court Restaurant, in the Museum, is open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m. It is also open for dinner on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. On most Friday nights, visitors can dine to the sounds of live Kansas City jazz or classical music. Travel Holiday magazine calls Rozzelle Court Restaurant "the prettiest café in the Midwest." Rozzelle Court is fashioned after an open-air Italian courtyard and offers buffet-style service of main dishes, salads, soups, breads and desserts. This beautiful setting is elegant yet casual, and offers a delicious Sunday brunch featuring savory entrees, full coffee bar, our famous scones and a gourmet omelet station with crab, shrimp, fresh vegetables and more. As you dine, enjoy classical music on select Sundays.