Accessibility Info
What to Expect:
Due to the light sensitivity of many works of art, some galleries require low lighting.
Some galleries may feature security alarms, or works of art or interactives that include ambient sound.
Backpacks must be worn on the front or on one shoulder. Free bag and coat checks are available in Bloch Lobby. Exceptions are made for medically necessary devices.
Portable stools can be found at the Info Desk for your convenience. They weigh 3.75 pounds and can be carried from gallery to gallery.
Service animals are welcome anywhere in the museum.
Quiet spaces are available. Please inquire at the Info Desk. Sound-blocking headphones are available at the coat check counter in the Bloch Building.
Mobility
Most public areas in the museum are wheelchair accessible. The parking garage and museum lobby are fully ADA accessible with direct access from the garage.
Rozzelle Court Restaurant and the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park are partially wheelchair accessible.
Wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available at Coat Check on the Lobby Level of the Bloch Building. These are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available in the Bloch Building.
A cart is available to take visitors from the Info Desk to the galleries at the south end of the Bloch Building and back. The cart is not wheelchair accessible.
Accommodations
Social Stories/Narratives
Guides are directed toward school age children who are neurodiverse whether they are coming for a tour, an art workshop or a visit with their families.
Family | Tour | Workshop
More Communication
Communication aid cards are available at the coat check counter in the Bloch Building.
Contact us to schedule a sign language interpreter at 816-751-0441 or send an email to communityprograms@nelson-atkins.org . Please allow two weeks’ notice to schedule an interpreter.
Programs
The Nelson-Atkins offers customized experiences to fit the needs, abilities, and interests of people with disabilities.
Access Programs include tours and customized art classes for groups as well as tours in American Sign Language and public events such as Deaf Cultural Festival.
Deaf Culture Project
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art was awarded a three-year grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to provide quality, accessible, and inclusive interpretive and educational programs for visitors who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing.
ASL Vlogs
The Deaf Culture Project will also feature a series of captioned ASL vlogs.
View the Deaf Culture Project playlist below or on the Nelson-Atkins YouTube channel.