Electric Park in Kansas City: History, Menu & Visitor’s Guide
Electric Park in Kansas City, a historic amusement park, now offers a unique experience with themed food, entertainment, and attractions for all visitors to enjoy.
Electric Park was known as “Kansas City’s Coney Island,” operating from 1907 to 1925. The park was created by the Heim brothers, who were prominent Kansas City brewers. Originally located in the East Bottoms (1899-1906), it later moved to 46th and The Paseo (1907-1925). The park was famous for its million lightbulbs that illuminated the night sky, earning its fitting name “Electric Park.”
After exploring Electric Park’s rich history and attractions, treat yourself to a flavorful meal at one of Kansas City’s Best Korean BBQ restaurants nearby.
Notable Features
- Massive swimming pool
- German-style gardens
- Roller coaster
- Carousel
- Dance pavilion
- Aerial swing
- Electric fountain
- German band performances
- Vaudeville theater
Historical Menu Highlights
The original Electric Park was famous for several signature offerings:
Food Items
- Heim Bros. Beer
- German sausages
- Pretzels
- Ice cream
- Cotton candy
- Popcorn
- Hot dogs
- Peanuts
Beverages
- Root beer
- Lemonade
- Sarsaparilla
- Beer (pre-prohibition)
- Soft drinks
Historical Significance
Electric Park holds a special place in American entertainment history as one of the inspirations for Walt Disney, who grew up in Kansas City and frequently visited the park. Many believe that Disney’s experiences at Electric Park influenced his later design of Disneyland.
Legacy and Impact
- Influenced modern amusement park design
- Contributed to Kansas City’s entertainment culture
- Set standards for nighttime illumination in entertainment venues
- Pioneered integrated entertainment complexes
Location Information
Original Location (1899-1906)
- East Bottoms area
- Near Heim Brewing Company
Second Location (1907-1925)
- 46th Street and The Paseo
- Kansas City, Missouri
Visiting Historical Sites
While Electric Park no longer exists, visitors can explore several historical markers and related sites:
- The Paseo Boulevard Historical Marker
- Kansas City Museum exhibits featuring Electric Park memorabilia
- Historic Northeast District
Related External Links
- Kansas City Public Library – Electric Park Digital Collection
- Missouri Historical Society
- Visit KC – Historical Attractions
- Kansas City Museum
Contemporary Legacy Sites
Several modern Kansas City establishments pay homage to Electric Park’s legacy:
- Electric Park Garden Bar
- Located in J. Rieger & Co. Distillery
- Features historical photos and memorabilia
- Offers themed cocktails and menu items
- Kansas City Museum
- Houses Electric Park artifacts
- Features historical exhibits
- Provides educational programs about KC’s entertainment history
Local Historical Resources
For those interested in learning more about Electric Park’s history:
- Kansas City Public Library – Missouri Valley Special Collections
- Jackson County Historical Society
- Kansas City Museum Archives
- Local History Walking Tours
Preservation Efforts
Several organizations work to preserve the memory of Electric Park:
- Kansas City Historical Society
- Local preservation groups
- Museum curators
- History enthusiasts
Note: This article primarily focuses on historical information as Electric Park is no longer operational. Current menu information refers to establishments that pay tribute to the original park.
Photo Collections
While the original park no longer exists, historical photographs can be found at:
- Kansas City Public Library Digital Collection
- Missouri Historical Society Archives
- Kansas City Museum Collection
- Local historical societies
FAQs
When did Electric Park operate?
The original location operated from 1899-1906 in the East Bottoms, and the second location operated from 1907-1925 at 46th and The Paseo.
Why was it called Electric Park?
The park got its name from the million electric light bulbs that illuminated it at night, creating a spectacular display that was revolutionary for its time.
Did Walt Disney really visit Electric Park?
Yes, Walt Disney visited Electric Park during his youth in Kansas City, and many historians believe it influenced his vision for Disneyland.
What caused Electric Park to close?
The park closed in 1925 due to a combination of factors including fire damage, changing entertainment preferences, and the impact of Prohibition on the Heim brothers’ business.
Was there an admission fee?
Yes, the park charged admission, though prices varied throughout its operation. Some special events and holidays had different pricing.
