Be Part of the Arts

A group of students attentively listens to an elder woman, who is presumably a guide, giving a tour in the modern, glass-roofed building of the Kauffman Center.

The Kauffman Center offers private tours for local residents and those visiting Kansas City, as well as public access hours that are available on most Fridays.

Both opportunities provide a closer look at the Kauffman Center with a special focus on the venue’s history and key architectural elements. Please check below for the most up-to-date information about private tours and public access hours.

Private Group Tours

Are you seeking an unforgettable experience with a unique look at the Kauffman Center? Our knowledgeable volunteer tour guides offer a comprehensive overview of the history, architecture and inner workings of one of Kansas City’s most iconic venues.

Request a Tour

Tours must be scheduled around the performances and work calls of the technicians, artists and administrators. Therefore, private tours do not include access to backstage areas and we cannot guarantee that every tour will have the opportunity to view Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall.

Private tours of the Kauffman Center must be requested via form at least three weeks before the requested visit date.

Public Access Hours

    • Friday, Nov. 29, 2024 – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 – No public access hours
    • Friday, Dec. 13, 2024 – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Friday, Dec. 20, 2024 – No public access hours
    • Friday, Dec. 27, 2024 – No public access hours

The Kauffman Center maintains public access hours on most Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors may explore Brandmeyer Great Hall, Helzberg Hall and Muriel Kauffman Theatre with guidance from a volunteer greeter.

Occasionally, performances, concerts or event set-up do not allow us to offer this experience, or visits may be limited to only Brandmeyer Great Hall. Please contact the Kauffman Center Ticket Office at 816.994.7222 before your visit to ensure public access is available.

People walking up a glass-enclosed staircase, with large windows in the background letting in natural light. Request a tour to experience this architectural marvel firsthand.

Architecture & Spaces

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a regional hub for music, opera, theater and dance, serving also as the performance home of three of the region’s leading performing arts organizations.

The Kauffman Center’s two performance venues — Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall — are distinct structures, each housed in their own architectural shell which contains their individual acoustical environment. The building’s glass roof and walls provide sweeping views of Kansas City to the south. The north façade features arched stainless steel walls that rise from the ground like a wave.

Learn More

The image shows the exterior of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, featuring its distinctive curved, metallic architectural design. Grasses are planted in front of the building.
Close-up of two musicians playing brass instruments during a Kansas City Performing Arts performance. One musician's face is partially visible behind the instrument.

Purchase Your Ticket to World-Class Entertainment

Don’t miss your next favorite performance or event at the
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

Buy Tickets