Follow along with an essay from your local park ranger
LOOKING BACK AT THE CIVIL WAR WHY INDEPENDENCE’S HISTORIC HOMES SHOULD BE ON YOUR LIST TO VISIT
Learn how Independence had a part in the Civil War Hear all about Independence’s Historic Homes
One of the best places to shop in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Independence Center is located in Independence, Missouri, near I- 70
Home to more than 100 popular retail stores, including Dillards, Dick’s Sporting Goods, H&M, Forever 21, PINK, Pandora, Victoria’s Secret, Carhartt & Toy House.
Treat yourself at Topsy’s Popcorn, Baskin-Robbins, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels & More
Check out the new Jurassic Giants Dinosaur exhibit, ALL DAY PLAY at Fun Bounce and District Jungle Arcade.
Over 1 million square feet of retail, dining and entertainment, at one of the premier enclosed shopping malls in the region.
For more infomation visit our website
FEATURES PLUS TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME TO
Welcome to Independence, Missouri! I hope you can not only explore the history that helped shape our nation, but the many great shops and venues that continue to make Independence great.
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Independence has had a special place in my heart since I was a child and strongly impacted my decision to serve my community. One of my most vivid childhood memories is standing in line at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum to pay my respects upon President Truman’s death with thousands of other people, all there to honor the life of this humble man. I remember thinking this person must have been special to impact so many people and there began a lifelong goal of learning all I could about him.
country, but he wasn’t above trying to hula-hoop in a driveway, talking with a mother shopping on the Independence Square, or walking through the community he loved. He was a man that knew the lesson throughout his entire life. We continue to honor his legacy today, celebrating the renovations of his presidential library, marking important moments of his life on the Independence Square with statues, and growing the community he and his family loved so much.
Harr y pay th he life person ple could op on he the ing king d
From the brave pioneers heading west, to a humble president, to the vibrant community we are today, Independence is a Great American Story and we hope you enjoy your time here!
Mayor Rory Rowland
HARRY’S HOMETOWN: A GREAT AMERICAN STORY
AN ESSAY FROM YOUR LOCAL NATIONAL PARK RANGER
“Well, it’s good to be back home, in what I call the center of the world…Independence, Missouri. And I am more than happy to be here, and to stay here the rest of my life…”
- Harry S Truman
You are holding in your hands a booklet designed entirely to help you plan a trip to Independence, Missouri. Few things would have made President and Mrs. Truman happier than knowing you are doing so. For the Trumans and their family, Independence was more than just a spot on a map. It was home, in the
truest sense of the word. The town provided decades of memories, and support when they needed it the most. The town was proud to be home to a President of the United States and his family, and that feeling was more than mutual.
President Truman would be proud to know that in 2022, Independence came back to life after a period of uncertainty during the pandemic, and it came back in a big way. Visitors from around the world have come to learn about the Man from Independence, and found while here that there are almost endless opportunities to explore. (There’s a reason Harry Truman said that Kansas City was a suburb of Independence.)
During a recent visit to the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, an elderly Veteran of the United States Army stood from his wheelchair in the courtyard and saluted at his Commander in Chief’s grave. We can only imagine the memories that gentleman carries with him, being part of that Greatest Generation.
During a recent visit to the Truman Home, a local six-year-old boy was excited to see and experience where Truman and his family lived, and shared with a Park Ranger what he would do if he became President of the United States. He and his grandparents subsequently enjoyed ice cream bought on the Square, and were excited to learn this was drugstore. At the end of the day, he discussed what his future presidential library would be like…it will contain an ice cream parlor. Imagine the memories that young man will create in the future.
During a recent stroll in the Harry S Truman Historic District, a couple from New York shared that they could easily imagine this town through the eyes of a young Harry Truman and Bess Wallace, saying that they truly understood the appeal of a small town, even as they chuckled because they couldn’t keep up with Harry Truman’s 120-stepsper-minute walking cadence. They left Independence
with good memories.
If you haven’t done so recently, please take a few minutes and pay close attention to the news and current events. Check out the new releases in your favorite bookstore. Odds are you will often see and hear Harry Truman’s name mentioned. He is as relevant to us today as he was then. In 2023, it will have been 78 years since Harry Truman became President of the United States.
But in the grand scheme of time, it is but a blink. We, today, can learn much from Harry and Bess Truman. Leadership? Certainly. Integrity? Absolutely. We can also learn life lessons about love, faith, optimism, the importance of family, appreciation of our past, and the power of community.
The last of these is quite important. When you visit Independence you will be able to visit worldclass museums, historic homes, libraries, and more. You can shop in some of the most unique stores and dine in excellent restaurants. But what makes all these experiences extraordinary is the people… extraordinary people, here to tell you extraordinary stories and part of an extraordinary community.
For, you see, we also believe that Independence is the center of the world.
LOOKING BACK AT THE CIVIL WAR
forces and does not require a minimum number of combatants. Since the history of the American Civil battle of that war occurred at Manassas, Virginia on July 21, 1861. However, recent information shows
Two units of the MSG were formed in Independence. The Independence Greys, led by Captain Thomas Arnold, and the Independence Blues, led by Captain George Whitehead. Ironically though, both units dressed in blue. This entire group was under the command of Colonel Edmund Learning new history
Civil War occurred on June 13, 1861, right here in Independence, Missouri, just west of where the Independence to Westport Road crosses Rock Creek. It was not fought by thousands of men, nor did it have well-known men participating. The battle consisted of just one hundred or so men on each side.
After the raid on the Liberty Arsenal, the raid on Chouteau’s warehouse, the Camp Jackson Affair and the Price-Lyon-Jackson meeting in St. Louis; Governor Claiborne Jackson of Missouri issued a proclamation on June 12, 1861 calling into active service 50,000 members of the state militia known as the Missouri State Guard (MSG). It was with this call out of the MSG, that set the events in motion for the Battle of Rock Creek.
graduate who had served in the Mexican-American War, and fought against Native Americans in the West. Following Governor Jackson’s orders, the units gathered and set up camp in the pasture of resident Albert Oldham west of Independence near the Rock Creek crossing of the Independence to Westport Road.
In the pursuit of accuracy, it must be said that not all of the members of the units were present. Stories will say that a Mr. Patsy O’Donnell, a local shoemaker, showed up late and gloriously drunk. He was immediately arrested for showing up in such a condition. Patsy wouldn’t let that go and was reported to have said, “Ye-s havn’t got a man in yer company that can irrest me, sir.” Not long after those words left his mouth, Captain Arnold turned to Dealy Noland and ordered “Knock him down, Dealy.” When Patsy woke up, he found himself hog-tied and trying to sober up.
On June 12, 1861 Union troops from Fort Leavenworth, under the command of Captain William Prince, came to Kansas City at the request of the loyal Union citizens of that town. To allay the fears of the citizens of Jackson County, Prince issued a newspaper article saying he came on the authority of the President of the United States to organize, “a Home Reserve Corps for maintaining the integrity of the laws and the rights of individuals.” He also said as soon as his mission was complete, he would return to Leavenworth ending his article by saying, “My desire is peace—but must accept the other alternative if offered.” The next day Captain Prince ordered Captain David Stanley along with 200 men to travel camp in Independence. Their intent was to make a show of force, but not to bring on a confrontation.
cause any trouble, he was released to join his fellow soldiers. The MSG marched west about half a mile on the road and took position behind a rail fence facing west along with one cannon positioned to
owner, was said to have grabbed a cornstalk and ran alongside the MSG shouting, “Give ‘em hell boys, give ‘em hell, and tell ‘em I’ll be there directly.”
of truce. Colonel Holloway and aides Lt. William McClannahan and Thomas Cooper, all dressed in
Holloway and Stanley got closer, they found out they were old acquaintances having served together during the Mexican War. During the talk, Stanley noticed that the MSG, under Colonel Chiles, were making from Kansas City. Holloway assured Stanley there wasn’t any danger. The talk continued until Stanley
and becoming more threatening. He broke off the talk to return west to his men. Holloway and aides turned to start back to their lines, but before they started, Holloway motioned for his men to move back. The MSG misunderstood the motion and, thinking it is a signal for the Union to attack, they let
At 5pm on June 12th, the MSG pickets on the road west to Kansas City came running back to camp saying the Union cavalry was approaching. The MSG was ordered to fall in and after Patsy promised not to
individual said, “Shoot the d--- rascals,” and that is after he was mortally wounded. Both Lieutenants and pandemonium lasted for just 10 minutes. When the smoke of battle had cleared the only man killed outright was Charles Harbaugh of the MSG. He was shot climbing the fence and was hit in the head - falling dead in the road. Samuel Ralston and Perry Stonestreet received wounds and would recover. After order was restored, the Union forces returned to Kansas City. Holloway was taken to the house of Barnet Noland where he died that night. McClanahan and Cooper were taken to the home of Albert Oldham. McClanahan was dead the next morning and Cooper recovered from his wounds. The Union forces suffered no casualties. Following the battle the command of the MSG fell to Colonel Weightman. He organized a retreat east on the Independence to Lexington Road to where the road crossed the Little attack. When none came, they slowly dispersed back to their homes.
of the Civil War. A battle of misunderstandings, and
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WHY INDEPENDENCE’S HISTORIC HOMES SHOULD BE ON YOUR LIST TO VISIT
Bingham-Waggoner Estate
313 W. Pacific Ave.
Vaile Mansion
1500 N. Liberty St.
Chicago and Alton Railroad Depot
318 W. Pacific Ave.
History is breathtaking, and Independence is very fortunate to be home to several beautifully preserved turn-of-the-century homes and buildings. We invite you to step back in time as you tour the BinghamWaggoner Estate, Vaile Mansion, and Chicago and Alton Railroad Depot located in the heart of Independence. Join us as we explore the importance of the past as it guides our future.
QUEEN CITY OF THE TRAILS BEGINS AT BINGHAM-WAGGONER
Between 1827 and 1878, the Bingham-Waggoner Estate had several owners. The grounds were known as the shortcut for the Santa Fe Trail. In fact, wagon swales, or ruts, are still present on the grounds today. As westward migration grew, Independence would become the jumping-off point for the Oregon and California Trails. This would lead to our nickname of
Queen City of the Trails and solidify our place in the great story of our country.
Today you can walk through the grounds and see their journey. Perhaps one of your ancestors traveled the trails, passing through this same property!
FROM WAGONS TO WAR
George Caleb Bingham painted quite the picture of the Civil War - literally. As the new, prominent owner of the estate, Bingham would create one of his most well-known pieces, “General Order Number 11,” on the grounds of what would become the Bingham-Waggoner Estate. As he sat in the log-andclapboard building outside the main house, Bingham would paint an image of the infamous order by General Thomas Ewing for martial law displacing 200,000 rural families in Jackson, Cass, Bates, and northern Vernon counties in Missouri. The civil war profoundly affected 1860s America and we still feel echoes in our world today.
FROM PAINTINGS TO QUEEN OF THE PANTRY
The Waggoner family came to Independence from Pennsylvania. As the longest single owner of the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, the Waggoners would remodel the estate into what we see today. The operator of the Waggoner-Gates Flour Mill,
Midwest and was known as Queen of the Pantry. The Waggoner family continued to live in this home until 1976, when Harry Waggoner, the last Waggoner to own the estate, died.
In 1979, a group of private citizens, in partnership with the City of Independence, purchased the 19.5acre estate for a museum and public park. If you are a fan of historic architecture or retracing important moments in history, the Bingham-Waggoner Estate is a must-see while in Independence.
ICONIC VAILE MANSION
Not to be outdone, the beautiful Victorian Vaile Mansion, shares a story mixed with tragedy and extravagance. It has become one of the most recognizable homes in Independence and a vision of the modern possibilities during the Victorian Era.
LAVISHNESS OF THE MOST “PRINCELY HOME”
Harvey and Sophia Vaile loved all things luxurious, as is apparent when you step into the Vaile Mansion where the couple spared no expense when it came to construction. The home features nine exquisite water tank for indoor hot and cold water. The cost to build the stunning home was between $100,000 and $150,000, equivalent to $3-4.3 million today. The Vaile Mansion was said to be “the most princely house and the most comfortable home in the entire west,” as reported by Kansas City Times in 1882.
ISOLATION AND ACCUSATIONS
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Although the couple built a stunning residence, Mr. of Independence. Harvey endured lawsuit charges of mail fraud. He faced two trials, and though he was found not guilty, tragedy befell him. Sophia felt shunned by the women of society in Independence. Rumor has it Sophia became so distraught over the fraud accusations and bitter loneliness, it may have led to an overdose by the use of Laudanum, a type of opium. Harvey would never remarry and continued to live in his Mansion until he died in 1895.
CONTINUAL CHANGE
After Harvey died, the home transitioned into several different ventures, from a sanitarium to a nursing care facility and a spring water bottling company. Eventually, the Vaile Mansion, bought by Roger and Mary Mildred DeWitt, would be repaired. The
DeWitt family donated the Mansion to the City of Independence. An extensive renovation would restore the home to its former glory and transition it to the museum you see today.
ALL ABOARD CHICAGO AND ALTON RAILROAD DEPOT
Just 20 minutes from downtown Kansas City, the expansion of the railroads led to the end of the trails and a new chapter for the City of Independence. The faint sound of train whistles let visitors to the beautifully restored Chicago and Alton Depot know the station master will be checking luggage, punching tickets, and notifying passengers when to board. This enjoyable museum is said to be one of the oldest restored train depots in Missouri, and it is the only two-story depot to be fully restored.
LAST STOP THE TIMELINE OF C&A
The Chicago and Alton Railroad Depot of Independence, constructed in 1879, is cherished by train enthusiasts and the public. One notable event occurred in 1919 when President Woodrow Wilson stopped at the depot while awaiting the proper time for his League of Nations Tour. The Chicago and Alton Independence Depot received its last passenger train in 1960. In 1996, the depot was moved to its new location and opened to the public in 2002. Come see what it was like to be a part of the railway system with a tour of the Station Master’s home and train depot.
FINDING YOUR TRAIL TO INDEPENDENCE
From Queen City of the Trails to the industrial age, the story of Independence is deeply rooted in the history of America and continues today. Let your trail lead you to explore the history of our nation with a trip to Independence.
HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS
Each season in Independence offers something exciting to see and do. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, we have just the right events and activities for you. Our venues and businesses provide you with experiences that spark a love of history, and fun. We have a wide variety of things to do for all ages. Join us every season in Independence for your Great American Story!
TRUMAN DAY/TRUMAN TROT
MAY 7, 2023
WATERFALL PARK | 8AM
Join us in celebrating Truman Day with the Annual Truman Trot at Waterfall Park! The race begins at 8 AM. T-shirts are available for purchase for $10. Help us continue celebrating President Truman with community events and fun at regional venues. Learn more at indep.us/trumantrot2023.
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
JUNE 3, 2023
VAILE MANSION | 9AM-4PM
HISTORIC HOMES OPEN FOR SEASON
APRIL 1-OCTOBER 31, 2023
Celebrate our Historic Homes as they open for the season! Take a step back to the Victorian Era as you tour some of our oldest sites.
UPTOWN GARDEN FAIRE
APRIL 29, 2023
INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN MARKET | 8AM2PM
Join us at the Independence Uptown Market for the Uptown Garden Faire. Celebrate plants with a garden
FARMERS MARKET
MAY-OCTOBER
INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN MARKET | 8AM1PM
Our Farmers Market opens for the regular season on May 6, 2023. Join us in welcoming back our farmers, crafters and local businesses.
Savor the taste of a variety of strawberry treats while listening to live music and exploring the Mansion at this free event!
WINE AND BREW WALKING TOUR
JUNE 2023
HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE
Stroll down our historic district while sampling local and regional wines, brews and spirits. Get your tickets at indepsquare.com.
ANTIQUE AND CRAFT FAIR
JULY 8, 2023
BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE
Join us for shopping and unique gifts from 100 antique dealers and crafters on the BinghamWaggoner Estate.
SANTACALIGON DAYS FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 1-4, 2023
HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE AND INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN MARKET
Join us as we celebrate Independence’s pioneer roots as the Queen of the Trails! This festival features live music, food and drink, shopping, entertainment, and more! See this year’s lineup at santacaligon.com.
INDEPENDENCE UNCORKED WINEFEST
SEPTEMBER 10, 2023
BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE
Come and sample wines from 25 Missouri wineries, peruse food and art booths at one of the largest wine festivals in the State! Learn more at independenceuncorked.com.
HUMMINGBIRD FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 7-9, 2023
GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK
See throngs of ruby-throated hummingbirds as they pass through on their migration. Learn how to tag hummingbirds, pick up feeders, and more as you see and hear everything about hummingbirds!
BEST LITTLE ARTS AND CRAFT SHOW
NOVEMBER 17-18, 2023
ROGER T. SERMON CENTER
Shop till you drop at the annual Best Little Arts and of hand-crafted merchandise from local businesses, a special gift for everyone.
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE LIGHTING AND TREE LIGHTING
NOVEMBER 2023
HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 6PM
Holiday fun, tradition, and magic starts with the annual square lighting. Help us usher in the holiday season by lighting the Historic Square in the heart of Independence. Enjoy singing, dancing, and more as we kick off the holiday season.
ENCHANTED FOREST
OCTOBER 20-21, 27-28, 2023
GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK
Come for family-friendly, non-scary Halloween fun. Guides will lead you down paved paths where you will see stories acted out along the way. Each tour ends with a hayride back to the entrance!
SPIRITS WITH THE SPIRITS
OCTOBER 7, 2023
VAILE MANSION
Join us for the Annual Spirits with the Spirits at Vaile Mansion. Enjoy cocktails while experiencing stories of the spirits that live in the mansion. Purchase your tickets at vailemansion.org.
HALLOWEEN PARADE
OCTOBER 28, 2023
HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 10AM
Holiday fun begins at 10AM on Saturday, October 28, 2023! After the parade, stick around to shop and eat at our amazing shops on the Historic Square.
SANTA’S VILLAGE
NOVEMBER 2023
INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN MARKET | 6:30PM
Santa Claus is coming to town! In true Independence fashion, Santa and Mrs. Claus will join us at the Independence Uptown Market after we light the Square. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, and more!
HISTORIC HOMES OPEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS
NOVEMBER 24-DECEMBER 2023
The historic homes are open for the holidays! Explore our beautifully decorated historic homes to be taken back to simpler times. The Vaile Mansion and Bingham-Waggoner Estate will be open to the public Thursday through Saturday. Private events are available by registration Monday through Wednesday.
LIVING WINDOWS
DECEMBER 1, 2023
HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE
SQUARE
Holiday magic will be seen and felt at this year’s Living Windows in the Historic Independence Square! Enjoy the magic and wonder of some of your favorite holiday movies and songs in the shops as we celebrate the holiday season.
ANNUAL WINTER SOLSTICE TORCH-LIT HIKE
DECEMBER 6, 2023
GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK
Celebrating 20 years of tradition with the annual Winter Solstice Torch-Lit Hike! If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, this is the event for you. We invite you to enjoy the changing of the seasons as you walk through the beauty of George Owens Nature Park.
the Winter Solstice. Come face to face with birds of prey. Ice sculptures in the park are sure to delight community members of all ages.
CHAMPAGNE AND CHANDELIERS
DECEMBER 2, 2023
VAILE MANSION
Join us for a twilight tour of the Vaile Mansion in beautiful holiday décor while sipping champagne or sparkling water and enjoying passed appetizers. Learn more at vailemansion.org.
TWILIGHT GALA
DECEMBER 2023
BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE
Join us for the Annual Twilight Gala of BinghamWaggoner Estate. This is a one-night event you won’t want to miss. Learn more at bwestate.net.
WINTER MARKET
OPEN EVERY FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH NOVEMBER-MARCH
INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN MARKET
The winter market is the perfect place to pick up fresh baked goods and seasonal produce. Come support local businesses and pick out hand-crafted gifts that are sure to please everyone on your holiday list.
WINTER TRAILS
DECEMBER 2023-JANUARY 2024
GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK
Come see decorated holiday displays created by the community for the community. Each holiday item is decorated to support Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity. We hope to share this long-standing tradition with you!
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STEP BACK IN TIME TO EXPLORE 1849
This Labor Day, we invite you to head west and step back in time as we celebrate Main Street 1849 at the SantaCaliGon Festival. Enjoy a stroll down a street alive with the commotion of travelers talking and children playing. Listen to the sound of metal clangs
of the water underlines it all as a few daring souls search for a glimpse of gold. While we haven’t quite perfected time travel, you and your family can enjoy a simpler time on Main Street 1849.
Main Street 1849 is more than 1800’s memorabilia, it’s living the Queen City of The Trails at the height of the Santa Fe, California and Oregon Trails. The City of Independence presents an original experience and a glimpse back in time at what it was like to walk the streets of Independence during the Westward Expansion right at the heart of the SantaCaliGon Festival.
Main Street 1849 features entertainment, games, activities, and live demonstrations of the pioneering past. Learn how to pan for gold as you make your way on the California Trail and interact with pioneers
helping bring it all to life. But don’t get caught frontier jail.
Load up your wagon, learn pioneer skills, and see what it was like to live in a pioneer cabin. Don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to capture your own history with plenty of photo opportunities as you stroll down through.
Once you’ve traveled back in time, be sure to enjoy the rest of the fun at the SantaCaliGon Festival. From great live music to fantastic crafts to a familyfriendly carnival, it’s a great way to spend time together over the holiday weekend.
Memories are made in Independence! Main Street 1849 is part of the magic that lasts a lifetime. Your trail to the historic past is on Main Street between Lexington and Kansas Avenues on the southeast corner of Independence Square.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
A DAY IN INDEPENDENCE
Whether you’re planning a staycation, girls’ weekend, or post-game fun, Independence has a lot to offer. Let’s walk through the endless possibilities of a day in Independence.
A good day begins with a great cup of coffee or tea; we don’t pick favorites here. We have several coffee shops to accommodate your taste preferences with a fun vibe. From The Delaware to Blendwell Café and
from award-winning water and a wide variety of breakfast options too.
shops around the Historic Independence Square and Englewood Arts District. Find all those unique gifts you might need to check off your list for birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.
History abounds in Independence and an afternoon here gives you so many options to explore it!
You can:
• Visit the National Frontier Trails Museum and learn more about the California, Oregon, Santa Fe, Lewis and Clark, and Mormon Trails.
• Block out an afternoon to explore the newly renovated Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. With new interactive experiences and exhibits, this is a must-see visit whenever you are in town.
• Explore your family’s history in one of the largest genealogy libraries in the country at the Midwest Genealogy Center.
The afternoon activities are endless - from wagon rides to historic homes and walking trails, you’re sure Independence.
Now we are sure you’ve built up an appetite after all the exploring and shopping. We have more than 200 dining, there is something for everyone.
It’s been a busy day, but don’t miss out on a chance to see a great hockey or indoor soccer game. The Cable Dahmer Arena is proud to be home to the Kansas City Mavericks hockey team and the Kansas City Comets soccer team. If sports aren’t your thing, the beautiful arena showcases a variety of events,
concerts, and family-friendly shows throughout the year too.
After a great day of shopping, exploring, and catching some entertainment, we know you could use a restful night’s sleep. With over 40 accommodations from bed and breakfasts to hotels and vacation
head down at night.
WHERE TO STAY IN INDEPENDENCE
Independence is home to great history, great food, and a Great American Story. Come see why you should plan a visit to Independence.
To find more places to stay scan here.
WATER, BEER, AND WINE
Did you know Independence, Missouri, has some of the best tasting water in the world? We regularly compete in the Berkley Springs Water Tasting competition and have placed in the top 10 several times over the last 15 years. Now that we have you googling how to become a water sommelier, you are probably curious why this is important as you plan a potential visit to Independence.
Great water is a key ingredient to make great beer, soda, wine, and other distilled drinks. Here are a few great local options to consider.
ADVENTURE AROUND EVERY CORNER
For pleasure seekers, Independence is your ticket to excitement. From family fun activities to one-ofa-kind historical sites, Independence has it all. We have the perfect accommodations to meet all your needs. Our distinctive bed and breakfasts, Short-
place to call home while you take in all the sites. With plenty of Independence originals, the choices are unlimited.
Whether you’re visiting Independence for business or enjoyment, we have just the right place for you!
POLLY’S POP
Find more information about places to stay, places to eat, and things to do at visitindependence.com/ wheretostay.
306 W. Maple Ave., Independence, MO 64050
A local favorite, Polly’s Pop is available to order at several local restaurants and with some even making specialty cocktails. Originally bottled from 1923 to 1967 in Independence, Polly’s Pop made a comeback and now offers the classic orange, grape, root beer,
peach or a special collaboration with Donutology that tastes like a glazed donut.
ALBONEE WINERY
2200 Crenshaw Rd., Independence, MO 64057
Located just minutes from I-70 or the Independence Square, this beautiful winery also offers a Country Inn. With a beautiful outdoor area, you can enjoy the of wines. The winery is open on the weekends, perfect for a fun afternoon with the girls or an at alboneecountryinn.com.
THREE TRAILS BREWERY
111 N. Main St., Independence, MO 64050
Located in the heart of the Independence Square this relatively young brewery has made its mark with an event space, golf simulator, seasonal pop-ups, trivia, and more. Enjoy a variety of great beers with equally creative names like Missouri Loves Company Sticke Altbeir or Trail Dragger Imperial Stout. They also offer hard sodas and meads. While you are enjoying your beverage or event, you can also order a Flying Horse Flatbread to make the night complete. Visit upcoming events at 3trailsbrewing.com.
TOP HAT WINERY
120 S. Main St., Independence, MO 64050 y
Top Hat Winery is a family-owned winery located on the historic Independence Square. They offer a variety of wines from dry to sweet and have recently added hard ciders to the mix. As we are just miles away from Kansas City, you can also enjoy some great BBQ while you have fun. Whether a connoisseur or novice, they have something for you. Plan your trip today by visiting tophatwinery.com.
Since our earliest days, water has played a big part in why people came to Independence. And while most of us aren’t fueling up for a months-long walk along the trails, there are still great options for a fun afternoon or evening out right here in Independence (and yes, some even have the Oregon Trail Game to enjoy while you relax). See you soon!
WHERE TO EAT IN INDEPENDENCE
• A Little BBQ Joint 1101 W. US Hwy 24 Phone: (816) 252-2275
• Big Biscuit 16506 E. US Hwy 40 Phone: (816) 478-6958
• Big Boy Drive-In
12401 E. US Hwy 40 Phone: (816) 356-1221
• Blendwell Community Café 10725 E. US Hwy 24 Phone: (816) 642-2204
• Café Verona
206 W. Lexington Ave. Phone: (816) 833-0044
• Authentic California Taco Shop
19520 E. US Hwy 40 Phone: (816) 503-6767
• Casa Mexico
19321 E. US Hwy 40 Phone: (816) 832-8194
• Cathay Express 15411 US Hwy 24 Phone: (816) 254-2005
• China Wok 17911 E. Hwy 40 Phone: (816) 257-2999
• Clintons Soda Fountain 100 W. Maple Ave. Phone: (816) 833-2046
• Courthouse Exchange 113 W. Lexington Ave. Phone: (816) 252-0344
• Daisy’s Mexican Food 10802 E. 23rd Street S. Phone: (816) 701-6323
•Drumm Farm Golf Course 15400 E. 34th Street S. Phone (816) 350-9900
•George Owens Nature Park 1601 S. Speck Rd. Phone (816) 325-7115
•Independence Community Ice 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy Phone (816) 442-6128
• Little Blue Trace Walking & Biking Trail
US Hwy 24 and Blue Mills Rd. Phone (816) 503-4800
• Phone (8 ( 16) ) 254-3644
•Church of Christ Temple Lot 200 S. River Blvd. Phone (816) 833-3995
•Community of Christ Temple 1001 W. Walnut Ave. Phone (816) 833-1000
•Stone Church 1012 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 254-2211
•McCoy Inclusive Playground and Adaptive Field
US Hwy 24 & N. Delaware St. (816) 325-7370
•Stone Canyon Golf Club 22415 E. 39th St. Phone (816) 228-3333
•Waterfall Park
4501 S. Bass Pro Dr. Phone (816) 325-7370
•Winterstone Golf Course
17101 E. Kentucky Rd. Phone (816) 257-5755
SHOPS ON THE HISTORIC SQUARE
•323Clay
323 W. Maple Ave. Phone (816) 254-7552
•All Star Pictures
110 S. Main St. Phone (816) 616-3003
•All Things Independence
215 N. Main St. Phone (816) 313-5603
•Art Squared Gallery
111 N. Main St. Phone (816) 252-9909
•BHN Home and Garden
205 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 461-7819
•Black Lemon Boutique
112 N. Liberty St. Phone (816) 287-0716
• Blue & Grey Book Shoppe
106 E. Walnut St. Phone (816) 252-9909
• Clinton’s Soda Fountain
100 W. Maple Ave. Phone (816) 833-2046
• Corporate Copy Print
111 S. Main St. Phone (816) 252-0400
• Designer’s Avenue Upholstery
202 N. Liberty St. Phone (816) 836-3075
• The Edison Event Space
204 N. Liberty St. Phone (816) 726-7471
• Game Café
107 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 252-7529
• Gilbert Whitney & Co
104 N. Liberty Ave. Phone (816) 836-0567
• Happy Trails Esthetics
211 W. Maple Ave. Phone (816) 824-5963
• HaupART Frame Gallery
111 N. Main St. Phone (816) 461-1717
• Heartland Wedding Chapel 108 S. Main St. Phone (913) 244-8528
• Jim Shaw Gallery
111 N. Main St. Phone (816) 204-8370
• Jones Taxidermy
123 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 254-1013
• Just for You Hair & Nail Salon
208 N. Liberty St. Phone (816) 254-4777
• KC Weddings 2 Go
108 S. Main St. Phone (913) 244-8528
• The Keeping Room
213 N. Main St. Phone (816) 833-1693
• Liquid Lines Studio
101 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 642-2176
• Miss Nails Spa
212 W. Maple Ave. Phone (816) 912-1831
• Music Gear 121 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 254-8989
•Peddlers Bike Shop
141 E. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 254-6855
•Portrait Gallery
124 S. Main St. Phone (816) 461-5400
•Salon 208
109 S. Main St. Phone (816) 252-6303
•Scandinavia Place
209 N. Main St. Phone (816) 461-6633
•Serendipity Antiques
211 N. Main St. Phone (816) 210-7182
•Shop ‘N Pawn of Independence
211 N. Osage St. Phone (816) 254-0022
•Sonshine Sports Apparel
101 S. Main St. Phone (816) 461-1198
•Studio on Main
123 S. Main St. Phone (816) 836-8139
•Tivona Naturals
211 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 606-5533
•Under the Awning Boutique
121 E. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 866-0188
•Uztabz Antiques
118 S. Main St. Phone (816) 252-9100
•Wild About Harry
104 W. Maple Ave. Phone (816) 252-0100
George Owens Nature Park
Located in Independence, Missouri, George Owens Nature Park is a lovely place to get away. Enjoy the serene sounds of nature along our walking and hiking trails. Cast a line and relax along the banks of two fishing ponds. Bring the entire family for an enjoyable day trip.
George Owens Nature Park has been providing families with outdoor nature opportunities since 1977. The park is open year round and provides 86 acres of beautiful forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife.
SHOPS AT ENGLEWOOD
STATION ARTS DISTRICT
• 73-Productions
10922 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 873-5501
• Catalani’s Hair Salon
11027 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 767-3164
• Darkwood House Gallery
10918 ½ E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 398-0894
• Estetica Unisex Linda (Hair Salon)
11010 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 308-6825
• Four Corners Framed Art 10912 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 252-3178
• Hill Flower Shop
11112 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 252-8812
• Massage By Erin
10906 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 810-6118
• Miracle Touch Barber Shop and Beauty Salon
11035 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 833-8449
•Pottery Art
10918 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 833-8331
•Puppetry Arts Institute
11025 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 833-9777
•Studio Englewood Salon
11026 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 333-5852
•Three Trails Trading Post & Artisian Gallery
11022 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 252-5622
•Vivilore
10815 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 836-2222
•West iNd Connection
11100 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 833-7770
•Wine Down 109 10914 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 209-3036
Find more things to do here.
INDEPENDENCE CENTER
18801 E. 39th Street S. Phone (816) 795-8602
SHOPS AT FALLS AT CRACKERNECK CREEK
19321 E. US Hwy 40 Phone (913) 648-6900
SHOPS AT NOLAND ROAD RETAIL CORRIDOR
Located between Hwy 24 and Hwy 40 Phone varies between locations
ART IN
INDEPENDENCE
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
•AMC Independence Commons 20 19200 E. 39th St. Phone (816) l795-1430
•Archery Excellence 4420 S. Noland Rd. Phone (816) l795-1430
•B&D Skate Center 13903 E. Noland Rd. Phone (816) 886-6281
• Cable Dahmer Arena 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy Phone (816) 795-7577
•Children’s Performing Theatre of Independence
201 N. Dodgion St. Phone (816) 370-6654
•City Theatre of Independence
201 N. Dodgion St. Phone (816) 370-6654
•Cool Crest Family Fun Center
10735 E. Hwy 40 Phone (816) 358-0088
•Diamond Bowl
218 N. Osage St. Phone (816) 252-8003
•Encore Theatre of Independence
201 N. Dodgion St. Phone (816) 370-6654
•Game Cafe
107 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 252-7529
•Get Air Trampoline Park 18900 E. Valley View Pkwy Phone (816) 897-3456
•Independence Uptown Market
211 W. Truman Rd. Phone (816) 325-7843
•Kansas City Comets
19100 E. Valley View Pkwy Phone (816) 478-2255
•Kansas City Mavericks 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy Phone (816) 252-7825
•Main Event Entertainment 4600 S. Cochise Ct. Phone (816) 350-1000
•Peace Pavilion 607 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 912-1275
•Pharaoh Cinema 4 114 W. Maple Ave. Phone (816) 836-9555
•Pioneer Trails Adventures 217 N. Main St. Phone (816) 254-2466
•Powerhouse Theatre of Independence 201 N. Dodgion St. Phone (816) 370-6654
•Prehistoric Putt 13907 E. US Highway 40 Phone (816) 832-8161
•Puppetry Arts Institute 11023 E. Winner Rd. Phone (816) 833-9777
•Three Trails Brewery 111 N. Main St. Phone (816) 886-6256
•Top Hat Winery 120 S. Main St. Phone (816) 248-9436
•Twin Drive-In 291 E. Kentucky Rd. Phone (816) 844-6430
•United Nations Peace Plaza and Fountain S. Temple Ct.
HISTORIC SITES AND MUSEUMS
•1827 Log Courthouse 107 W. Kansas Ave. Phone (816) 325-7575
•1859 Jail Museum 217 N. Main St. Phone (816) 252-1892
•Bingham-Waggoner Estate Phone (816) 461-3491
• Chicago & Alton Railroad Depot
Phone (816) 325-7955
• Harry S. Truman Home
219 N. Delaware St. Phone (816) 254-2720
• Harry S. Truman Library and Museum
500 W. US Hwy 24 Phone (816) 268-8200
• Jackson County Historical Society Archives, Research Library, and Book Shop 112 W. Lexington Ave. Phone (816) 252-l7454
• Merrill J. Mattes Research Library National Frontier Trails Museum
Phone (816) 325-7575
• Midwest Genealogy Center 3440 S. Lees Summit Rd. Phone (816) 252-7228
• National Frontier Trails Museum
Phone (816) 325-7575
• Peace Pavilion
1001 W. Walnut Ave. Phone (816) 521-3033
• Vaile Mansion
1500 N. Liberty St. Phone (816) 325-7430
• Woodlawn Cemetery
701 S. Noland Rd. Phone (816) 325-7365
WALKING TRAILS
• African American Historical Sites of Independence
Walking trail
Locations Vary Phone (816) 325-7575
• Civil War Battles on the Square and Driving Tour
Locations Vary Phone (816) 325-7575
• Harry S. Truman Historical
Walking Trail
Locations Vary Phone (816) 325-7575
• Missouri Mormon Historical
Walking Trail
Locations Vary Phone (816) 325-7575
Looking for all our walking tours?
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MAP YOUR TRAIL
OUR QUICK GUIDE TO LOCAL STOPS
HISTORIC VENUES
1. Vaile Mansion
2. Harry S Truman Home
3. Harry S Truman National Historic Site Visitor Center
