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As Kansas City Welcomes the World,Union Station Makes Ready for Summer of Soccer and More
May 22, 2026
As Kansas City Welcomes the World, Union Station Makes Ready for Summer of Soccer and More
Member News

112-Year-Old Landmark Blends History, Celebration and Global Connection During Summer of Soccer and America’s 250th Anniversary

Kansas City, MO — As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary and Kansas City prepares to welcome the world during the FIFA World Cup™ summer of 2026, Union Station Kansas City — a Smithsonian Affiliate — is once again stepping into the global spotlight not simply as a historic landmark, but as a living symbol of the American story.

For more than 112 years, Union Station has stood at the heart of Kansas City through moments that shaped generations.

“Union Station has stood at the center of Kansas City’s story for more than a century,” said Ray Kowalik, Chairman of the Board for Union Station Kansas City. “We’ve welcomed home our uniformed heroes from far-away fronts.  Celebrated with championship parades. And now, we’re welcoming the world during this historic moment for our country. Through it all, the Station continues to bring people together in meaningful ways. And as we approach America’s 250th anniversary, Union Station remains a powerful reminder that enduring places become part of our generational identity and collective future.”

Now, as the “Paris of the Plains” prepares to host a truly international audience, Union Station will become a vibrant gathering place where visitors from around the globe will experience the energy, creativity, and unique spirit of Kansas City . . . a city long considered one of America’s best-kept secrets.

“Union Station has always been more than a building. It is Kansas City’s front porch and the place where our community comes together during moments that matter,” said George Guastello, president and CEO, Union Station. “As the world arrives in Kansas City during this historic moment for our country and our city, we are honored to welcome a diverse array of guests to this place that has stood the test of time.”

Beginning June 11, Union Station will transform into an immersive destination filled with interactive experiences, cultural activations, local businesses and unforgettable photo opportunities celebrating both Kansas City and the global spirit of soccer.

Filling Union Station’s Grand Hall, Experience KC will showcase larger-than-life activations, community partners and iconic Kansas City brands . . . all free to visit.

A few highlights include:

  • Russell Stover Chocolates activations featuring the limited-edition Soccer Capital of America® Heart Box and appearances by Sporting KC legend Matt Besler
  • A giant match-viewing experience presented by Forvis Mazars
  • A community impact tailgating experience from Ford Motor Company
  • A Kansas City-inspired floral installation from Powell Gardens
  • Interactive media and photo experiences with KMBC 9 and IN Kansas City Magazine
  • Nations in Motion, a 30-foot-tall illuminated, in-motion sculpture celebrating global unity through soccer


In Grand Plaza, the City of Entrepreneurs Marketplace will feature local artists, makers, performers and small businesses every Thursday thru Sunday from June 11 through July 12. Presented in partnership with the City of Kansas City, Missouri and the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri, the free public marketplace will highlight the creativity, culture and entrepreneurial spirit that define Kansas City.

In addition to these free experiences, visitors can explore Union Station’s world-class attractions and entertainment offerings throughout the summer, including:

  • International Exhibition and North American premiere of The Berlin Wall. A World Divided . presented by Chase, exploring one of the most defining periods in modern history.
  • Internationally awarded Science City — filled with hands-on experiences for all ages.
  • Immersive astronomy and laser experiences beneath a stunning digital dome at the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium.
  • Kansas City’s largest movie screen experience at the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre.
  • For history lovers and lifelong learners, explore more than 100 years of Union Station history through the new CLIO app, an interactive mobile guide sharing stories, architecture, and historic moments connected to the Station and available in multiple languages. Guests can download the free app and take a fascinating self-guided journey.


Guests will also enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment throughout the Station, including:

  • Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
  • Harvey’s at Union Station
  • Parisi Coffee
  • Pierpont’s at Union Station
  • Made in KC Marketplace
  • Rally House
  • Rainbow Slime
  • The Escape Room Kansas City


As international visitors arrive in Kansas City during one of the most globally significant moments in the city’s history, Union Station will serve as both a gateway and gathering place — connecting the city’s past with its future while welcoming the world to the heart of America.

Experience KC is sponsored by Forvis Mazars, Russell Stover Chocolates, Ford Motor Company, Powell Gardens, KMBC9 News, IN Kansas City Magazine, and Google. For a full list of events and activities visit unionstation.org.

Union Station Kansas City

Union Station Kansas City — a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and Smithsonian Affiliate – is a 112-year-old historical landmark and celebrated civic asset renovated and reopened to the public in 1999. Known as Kansas City’s Visual Voice, the Station has been designated “Favorite Attraction”, “Favorite Family-Friendly Attraction” and “Favorite Historic Attraction”, dedicated to science education, celebration of community and preservation of history.  Union Station is home to Kansas City’s internationally-awarded Science City; the new Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium; the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre; the popular free Model Railroad Experience; City Stage featuring live theater, and a selection of unique shops and restaurants. Union Station is also home to prominent area civic organizations and businesses, and regularly hosts world-class traveling exhibitions as was proud to host the 2015 Royals World Series Championship Parade/Rally and the 2020 and 2023 Chiefs Super Bowl Parades/Rallies plus the recent 2023 NFL Draft.  Awarded “Top Banquet Facilities in KC” by KC Business Journal, the facility annually hosts hundreds of community events and private celebrations of all sizes. Visit unionstation.org for details. Also, follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, and YOUTUBE.