Discover all things Harry S. Truman – Independence's most famous resident. | p. 12
Explore the Square's history, dining, shops, and more! | p. 19
An art district's comeback story rooted in community, history and the arts. | p. 22
You've arrived in a historic city that continues to thrive in the heart of the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Whether you’re a lifelong Independence resident or visiting the city for the first time, we’re glad you’re here. This year is poised to be a significant one for Independence as past and present milestones collide, including the United States’ 250th anniversary and the arrival this summer of hundreds of thousands of soccer fans to the area.
In short, there’s no better time to explore Independence. Consider this 2026 Visitors Guide your starting point. This issue is jam-packed with recommendations, stories, itineraries and pro tips so you can navigate Independence like an insider.
We want your experience to be as easy and enjoyable as possible, so you’ll find plenty of logistical information in the guide, too, including how to access all of the soccer action and a comprehensive lodging directory.
Our only request? Take us along with you! As you explore Independence, feel free to tag us in your Instagram posts at @VisitIndependence or use hashtag #VisitIndependence. And stay up-to-date with us at VisitIndependence.com.
We’ll see you soon!
ALLISON CALVIN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Explore Independence through our digital Trails—your interactive guide to must-see sites around the city.
Check in at each stop, earn points, and redeem them for prizes.
Harry S. Truman treasured daily walks around his Independence neighborhood and throughout the city. Follow in his footsteps with an exploration of the Truman Historic Trail, a 2.7-mile trail that spans 43 stops important to Truman’s life.
From Independence Square you’ll explore cemeteries, churches, homes, businesses and schools that were important to the city’s African-American community, including The Neck, a predominantly African-American neighborhood demolished during a 1960s redevelopment and now home to McCoy Park.
The Civil War trail highlights locations tied to the First and Second Battles of Independence, including early urban battle sites, military buildings, and encampments. The trail also covers the Battle of the Little Blue, a failed Confederate raid in October 1864 that helped bring the Civil War to a close.
Questions often swirl about the city’s notable Mormon history, which began in 1831 when Joseph Smith declared Independence the site of Zion, God’s city on Earth. After tensions over anti-slavery views led to a violent uprising that drove the Mormon population out just two years later, a 14-stop trail now marks their lasting presence.
Scan here or visit VisitIndependence.com to sign up for our digital Trails and start exploring!
Welcome to Independence! If it’s your first time here, there’s a lot to experience, learn and savor. We’ve compiled the top 10 recommendations to guide your sightseeing. Enjoy!
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE
The historic Independence Square, which was built soon after the city’s founding in 1827, is a great starting point. A courthouse has stood at the center of the Square since 1830. The charming town square is full of photo opps, including historic architecture, statuary and colorful murals.
CABLE DAHMER ARENA 1 2
Want to catch a live event?
Cable Dahmer Arena hosts concerts, sports, live performances and more. Plus, the arena is surrounded by dining, retail and lodging.
3
HARRY S. TRUMAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM
Save several hours at minimum to explore the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. Museum Director Mark P. Adams calls the museum “the Smithsonian of the Midwest.” Exhibits include an exact replica of the Trumanoccupied Oval Office, a sprawling mural by Thomas Hart Benton and, downstairs, a rotating selection of exhibits and several of Truman’s fully restored vintage automobiles.
4
NATIONAL FRONTIER TRAILS MUSEUM
Learn more about the city’s emergence as the “Queen City of the Trails” at the National Frontier Trails Museum (pictured left), commemorating the city as a starting point for three trails that played a key role in westward migration: the Santa Fe, California and Oregon trails. The museum is home to the largest public library in the U.S. dedicated to the western trails.
5
ENGLEWOOD ARTS CENTER
Visit the heart of the Englewood Arts District, the Englewood Arts Center, a multidisciplinary arts hub that hosts performances, classes and exhibits.
Fun fact? Garth Brooks performed as a young musician in this neighborhood.
7
COMMUNITY OF CHRIST TEMPLE
The towering spiral spire of the Community of Christ Temple is visible throughout much of Independence and reflects a faith centered on joy, hope, love, and peace. Highlights include the serene Meditation Chapel overlooking a garden designed by Japanese master gardeners, the Temple Sanctuary, and a massive pipe organ with 5,685 pipes.
8
1859 JAIL MUSEUM
Tour the limestone cells of the 1859 Jail Museum, where outlaw Frank James was once held, carefully preserved by the Jackson County Historical Society. The museum is open April through October and on weekends in December.
9
VAILE MANSION
There’s no shortage of historic homes to see throughout Independence, but the towering Vaile Mansion is among the best. The three-story, 31-room mansion is a premier example of Second Empire architecture and includes 112 windows. Now, the reportedly haunted mansion is a museum that invites guests back into the Victorian era.
10
CHICAGO & ALTON DEPOT
Travel the same streets as early pioneer settlers and Frank and Jesse James during a mule-drawn wagon tour with Pioneer Trails Adventures, owned by Wagonmaster Ralph Goldsmith. Naturally, Ralph’s first (and favorite) mule is named Harry A. Truman. PIONEER TRAILS
The railroad also played an integral role in the rapid development of Independence. One key stop: the Chicago & Alton Depot, built in 1879 and believed to be the only fully restored two-story depot in Missouri.
Consider this: in 1996, the depot was fully lifted in one piece and transported to its current location, where a 10-year restoration brought the depot back to life as it would have functioned in the 1880s.
Independence plays host to seasonal and annual events throughout the year. Consider planning your trip to coincide with any of these 2026 highlights.
YEAR-ROUND
Explore the galleries, public art, performances and more of the Englewood Arts District on the third Friday of each month. A rotating selection of local food trucks ensures you’re fueled for exploring, or duck into one of the district’s restaurants like Vivilore or Wine Down 109 and grab a bite. Performances may include a live show at the Puppetry Arts Institute (PuppetryArtsInstitute.org) and an open mic night at the Englewood Arts Center.
ENGLEWOOD ARTS DISTRICT | 10901 E. WINNER RD. EnglewoodArts.art
ENGLEWOOD ARTS CENTER
UPTOWN FARMERS MARKET
YEAR-ROUND
INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN FARMERS MARKET
Browse locally grown produce, crafts and gifts from more than 40 vendors during the Independence Uptown Farmers Market, tucked right off of the Independence Square in an enclosed pavilion that was built to offer more gathering and event space in the heart of the city.
UPTOWN FARMERS MARKET | 211 W. TRUMAN RD. VisitIndependence.com
AMERICA 250
Independence Day in 2026 marks the country’s 250th birthday, and the City of Independence will be ready to celebrate accordingly! Events and festivities include special exhibits, live performances, fireworks displays and more. Check our website for a complete list.
VisitIndependence.com
SANTACALIGON FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 4–7
This beloved annual festival has a fun name to say, a mash-up of the Santa Fe, California and Oregon trails that began in Independence. You know fall is on the way when it’s time for SantaCaliGon Days, a free festival that began in 1940. Highlights include carnival rides, a local vendor marketplace, live music, beer gardens and plenty of food. And did we mention festival admission is free?
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 106 S. LIBERTY ST. SantaCaliGon.com
OCTOBER
Embrace spooky season with a 1.5-hour nighttime tour that explores the creepier side of the 1859 Jail Museum, including deaths on the property and resulting paranormal experiences. Please note that the tour is not a paranormal investigation; those are held separately, also in October.
1859 JAIL MUSEUM | 217 N MAIN ST. JCHS.org/1859JailMuseum
OCTOBER–APRIL
Catch the Kansas City Mavericks for fast-paced ECHL hockey, high-energy game-night, and family-friendly fun at Cable Dahmer Arena in Independence.
CABLE DAHMER ARENA | 19100 E. VALLEY VIEW PKWY. KCMavericks.com
NOVEMBER–MARCH
Check out the Kansas City Comets for fast-paced professional indoor soccer and an electric game-day atmosphere.
CABLE DAHMER ARENA | 19100 E. VALLEY VIEW PKWY. KCComets.com
NOVEMBER–DECEMBER
Travel back in time as you explore this historic estate adorned with holiday decorations, a glimpse into Christmas past.
BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE | 313 W PACIFIC AVE. BWEstate.net
DECEMBER 4
On one magical night during the holiday season, shop windows surrounding the Independence Square come to life with dancers, singers and actors. The Living Windows performances are preceded by an outdoor Christmas market, the perfect place to get started on your holiday shopping. Bundle up, sip a steaming cup of hot chocolate and get lost in a real-life Hallmark movie.
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 106 S. LIBERTY ST. IndepSquare.com
DECEMBER
Enjoy the Vaile Mansion in all of its holiday splendor with a Christmas-themed tour. Experience the wonder and merriment of a Victorian holiday as you celebrate the season in a truly unforgettable way.
VAILE MANSION | 1500 N. LIBERTY ST. VaileMansion.org
Enjoy all-indoor mini golf with dinosaur-themed holes across two 18-hole courses and one wacky 9-hole course. 13907 HWY 40 LetsGoPutt.com
For any time of the day fun, drop into Main Event for bowling, laser tag, and arcade games.
4600 S. COCHISE CT. MainEvent.com
Start the day at a locally owned comfort-food spot known for its cinnamon rolls and extra-sticky sticky buns.
4215 LITTLE BLUE PKWY. TheCornerCafe.com
Catch a first-run movie at this locally owned four-screen theater that’s been operating for over 40 years.
114 W. MAPLE AVE. Pharaoh4Cinema.com
Grab hot dogs or Philly cheesesteaks, and don’t miss the Missouri dog—best paired with a locally made Polly’s Pop.
114 N. LIBERTY ST EatUpDog.com
Explore this interactive children’s museum with hands-on exhibits like a laser maze, color shadow room, and musical instruments.
607 W. LEXINGTON AVE. ThePeacePavilion.org
This 1970s family entertainment center offers four outdoor mini golf courses and an indoor arcade.
10735 E. U.S. HIGHWAY 40 CoolCrest.com
including Polly-Q BBQ pizzas made with Polly’s Pop-infused barbecue sauces.
208 W. MAPLE AVE. SquarePizzaSquared.com
Experience a vintage soda shop with phosphates, Polly’s Pops, malts, and floats.
100 W. MAPLE AVE. ClintonsSodaFountain.com
Play tabletop games in a dedicated gaming space with open play and weekly themed events.
107 W. LEXINGTON AVE. PlayGameCafe.com
Check the arena’s schedule for Mavericks and Comets games plus concerts, wrestling, UFC, and seasonal skating.
19100 E. VALLEY VIEW PKWY. CableDahmerArena.com
Family-friendly entertainment with bowling, pool, electronic darts, arcade games, and plenty of TVs.
218 N. OSAGE ST. Diamond-Bowl.com
You’ll need more than a weekend to experience all the family-friendly adventures waiting in Independence. Whether you’re drawn to highenergy fun or more laid-back moments, check out the spots that best fit your family’s style.
The influence of Independence’s most famous resident, Harry S. Truman, is woven throughout the city—and we’ll help you catch every detail.
If you have time for just one Truman-focused stop, make it the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. Reopened in 2021 after extensive renovations, the interactive museum offers a multimedia journey through Truman’s life.
When Truman married Bess Wallace in 1919, they moved into one of the stateliest homes in Independence, a 14-room Victorian home just under 8,800 square feet and built in 1867. Once Truman was elected president, the home served as the “Summer White House.” When Truman’s presidential term ended, he and Bess steadily modernized the home, including the addition of extensive shelves to hold his treasured library.
Truman’s aunt and uncle, Margaret and Joseph, also called Delaware Street home, neighbors to Bess’s mother, Madge. Local lore says that while Truman was visiting his family, he was asked to return a dessert plate across the street to the Wallace home. Bess opened the door, the first time Truman had seen her in 20 years.
“That walk across Delaware Street that day changed their history … and ours,” wrote the National Park Service.
The Harry S. Truman National Historic Site acquired the Noland home in 1991. An extensive rehabilitation soon followed, preserving original interior features like woodwork and stained glass.
The oldest Episcopal church in Jackson County, Trinity Episcopal Church dates back to 1844. The current structure, built in 1881, served as Bess’s home church and still holds weekly services. On an early summer day, June 28, 1919, Harry wed the love of his life, Bess, beginning a 53-year marriage.
Several of Harry S. Truman’s favorite local businesses and destinations are still thriving today.
Dixon’s Famous Chili will introduce you to a truly one-of-a-kind chili, a family recipe honed over a century in business. Enjoy your chili in a bowl or opt for a Dixon burger, chili meat heaped on a grilled bun.
When you’re thirsty, grab a bottle of Polly’s Pop, a family-owned soda company founded in 1923. Flavors like grape, cherry, cream soda, and pineapple are bottled on a vintage 1940s machine. Find it at Clinton’s Soda Fountain or around the Independence Square.
Basement restaurant Courthouse Exchange is located across from the Historic Truman Courthouse, where Truman worked as a judge and maintained an office as U.S. Senator. Feast like the former president and order a burger. There’s one for each of the three trails, Santa Fe, California and Oregon, that left from the city.
During World War I, Truman drew on 12 years in the National Guard, serving as first lieutenant of Battery F before being promoted to captain of Battery D in France. Leading a rowdy unit of Kansas City soldiers, he earned a reputation as a firm but fair leader.
After the war, Truman championed a World War I memorial in Independence. The Neo-Georgian building opened on July 4, 1926, featuring bronze profiles of President Woodrow Wilson and General John “Black Jack” Pershing, WWI artifacts, and the names of fallen soldiers. Today, it serves as a community center.
The story opens with a nod to the library and museum, but it’s worth discussing again — it’s that good. Benjamin Petry, the museum’s marketing and sales operation manager, says he loves seeing so many visceral reactions from visitors. Often, they’ll come back the next day to revisit exhibits or continue absorbing everything they’ve learned.
Truman’s life took him around the globe, but he always treasured — and looked forward to returning to — his hometown.
“It’s good to be back home in what I call the center of the world — Independence, Missouri,” Truman declared during a May 8 Truman Day celebration to mark his post-presidential return.
A FUN FACT ABOUT HARRY S. TRUMAN
He was a voracious reader. He suffered diphtheria as a child, resulting in temporary paralysis of his legs, arms and throat. Truman’s mother gifted him a set of the multi-volume Great Men and Famous Women, sparking a literary love that would last a lifetime.
To enrich your exploration, here is a Trumanfocused reading list. Purchase any of these, and browse an extensive selection of books, at the Truman Library and Museum.
"Roughing It" by Mark Twain —
Twain was Truman’s favorite author, and Publisher’s Weekly identified this autobiographical adventure as Twain’s best. You also can’t go wrong with two Twain classics: "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn."
"Truman" by David McCullough —
Arguably the definitive Truman biography, McCullough’s 1992 book won a Pulitzer Prize. Copies are for sale at the gift shop inside the Truman Museum.
"Abraham Lincoln: The War Years" by Carl Sandburg — You’ll find a representation of this four-book series on an interactive bookshelf at the Truman Library and Museum. This is also a Pulitzer Prize-winning tome and is credited as playing an integral role in shaping the popular view of the 16th president.
"Harry S. Truman" by Robert Dallek —
Consider this a sort of Cliffs Notes biography, clocking in at just over 150 pages. You’ll get the highlights of Truman’s incredible life from this informative starting point.
Food and drink lovers will find delicious inspiration in these Independence-renowned restaurants and watering holes.
Of course, you can’t be in the Kansas City area and not have barbecue! Beloved local favorite, Gates Bar-B-Q, operates an Independence location. If you haven’t experienced Gates, be ready to order quickly once you step up to the counter! Staff will yell out an exuberant, “Hi, may I help you?” and that’s your cue!
Sometimes, you just need to pull up a stool at a nofrills bar. Welcome to Big John’s Corner Bar, which has been serving thirsty patrons for more than four decades. Pro tip? Big John’s is cash only.
Thirsty? The Sentinel Room, a newer cocktail bar on the Square, is tucked inside the building that formerly housed eastern Jackson County’s oldest newspaper: the Independence Sentinel. Now, The Sentinel Room specializes in whiskey, including what’s purported to be America’s largest collection of modern oldfashioneds (more than 30!)
Ophelia's (pictured left) is one of several restaurants owned by Ken and Cindy McClain, two people who have played an integral role in revitalizing the historic Independence Square. This eclectic American eatery serves delicious lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour. Yum!
The lush rural surroundings of the Albonée Country Inn & Vineyards are a relaxing backdrop for a tasting flight of Missouri-grown wines. Don’t skip breakfast if you book an overnight stay; the Country Inn potatoes are a local favorite.
Dixon’s Famous Chili opened in 1919 and is now the oldest family-owned restaurant in the Kansas City metro. Move over, barbecue — it’s time to put Kansas Citystyle chili in the spotlight! Beans and meat are cooked separately, then served on a plate with your choice of condiments, including onions, jalapeno relish, vinegar, hot sauce, cheese and sour cream.
In the Englewood Arts District, a hidden gem awaits. Vivilore is part lunch and dinner restaurant, part cocktail bar and part antique shop (three floors!), all in one gorgeous building that also features one of the city’s best patios.
The arts-focused vibe of the Historic Englewood Arts District is the perfect spot for a wine bar. Wine Down 109 is a vintageinspired wine, martini and cocktail lounge with extensive drink menus and rotating exhibits of locally made art.
Beloved Kansas City steakhouse Hereford House opened in 1957 near the Kansas City Stockyards, a central part of industrial hub, the West Bottoms District. Two locations remain, including one near Cable Dahmer Arena. You can’t go wrong with a hand-cut steak grilled over piping hot hardwood coals.
Longing for a trip to Italy without the travel? Step inside Café Verona and be whisked away to a fine dining Italian bistro, complete with cozy booths, Renaissance-style murals and a mouthwatering menu. Pause outside at the exterior wrought-iron gate, adorned with locks in the style of the Pont des Arts, also known as “the love lock bridge.”
One of the best parts of traveling is discovering a great local boutique. From quirky kitchen gadgets to nostalgic candy, these locally owned shops offer plenty of chances to test the phrase “shop ’til you drop.”
Sisters Natalie and Nanette Pickens craft toffees, fudge, and filled chocolates in their fragrant Square shop, using top-secret family recipes passed down from their mom.
205 N. MAIN ST. PickensSweetTreats.Etsy.com
Since 1978, 3 Trails Trading Post has been the Kansas City area’s oldest bead shop, supplying beads and regalia for Mic-O-Say and Order of the Arrow programs.
11022 E. WINNER RD. 3TrailsTradingPost.com
Gilbert Whitney & Co. is packed with drinkware, appliances, utensils, and table décor, plus specialty groceries like snacks, spices, sauces, jams, coffee, and local favorites.
104 N. LIBERTY ST. GilbertWhitney.com
APPROVED HARRY
You’ll find locally made jewelry, glassware, textiles, and (of course) beautiful art that supports the center’s mission to build a thriving, arts-focused community.
10901 E. WINNER RD. EnglewoodArts.art
Harry S. Truman would have loved this dapper, whimsical boutique near the site of his first job, Clinton’s Soda Fountain, and a 2024 Hallmark movie filming location.
104 W. MAPLE AVE. WildAboutHarryInd.com
Explore Merchant Square's 52,000 square feet and seemingly endless array of antique furnishings, home decor, and vintage jewelry from more than 400 vendors.
17730 E. 39TH ST. MerchantSquareAntiques.com/KC
“A charming downtown.” “Like a movie set!” “A downtown from earlier eras.” You’ll hear the historic Independence Square described in these ways and more, and for good reason.
The Square captures the spirit of a classic American town center, blending historic architecture with a lively mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, public art, and inviting green spaces.
As a busy trading post flourished into the City of Independence, the city’s brick courthouse was built in the middle of the Independence Square in 1836. Since then, the structure has been renovated five times, the last of which was supervised by Harry S. Truman in the early 1930s.
Today, the Independence Square bustles with locally owned businesses offering a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, alongside historic landmarks such as trailhead markers that once signaled westward migration. Visitors can explore an inviting mix of shops, enjoy diverse restaurants ranging from the city’s oldest burger joint to a welcoming Italian bistro. Throughout the year, the Square comes alive with signature events including the Independence Farmers Market, the beloved Living Windows holiday celebration, an annual Halloween parade, summer concerts, and more.
Independence’s history is shaped by pivotal moments, people, and places that helped define the city and continue to influence it today.
Founded less than a year after Jackson County, the City of Independence emerged on wooded land near 16 natural springs. Its first completed building—the Log Courthouse—still stands today and can be toured by appointment. Independence grew rapidly due to its role as the westernmost furtrading point along the Missouri River. Key milestones followed,
Three major westward routes—the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon trails—all began in Independence. After the first Oregon Trail wagon departed in 1843, tens of thousands of emigrants gathered here to prepare for the fivemonth, 2,000-mile journey west. The shorter Santa Fe Trail, primarily a trade route, spanned 800–900 miles. This role as a shared starting point earned Independence a lasting nickname: Queen City of the Trails.
The Civil War reached Independence on August 11, 1862, when the First Battle of Independence erupted on the Square. Designated a key federal military post, the city was drawn directly into the conflict. Confederate forces won the first battle. Continued violence through 1863–64, including William Quantrill’s raid on Lawrence, led Gen. Thomas Ewing to order residents to evacuate. The Second Battle of Independence followed, ending with a Union victory in October 1864.
At age six, Harry S. Truman moved with his family from Lamar, Missouri, to 619 Crysler Street in Independence. Over the next decade, key moments tied him to the city: he met his future wife, Bess Wallace, in Sunday School at First Presbyterian Church and took his first job in 1898 at Clinton’s Drug Store—still operating today as Clinton’s Soda Fountain.
After a decade as a United States Senator, Truman earned the attention of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who tapped Truman as his vicepresidential candidate. The duo won the election in 1944. Just 82 days later, Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage. Independence resident Harry S. Truman becomes the
Independence City Councilperson Barbara Potts is elected the first female Mayor of Independence. At the time, less than 10 percent of U.S. cities had female mayors. One of Mayor Potts’ initiatives remains today: Hope House, a support resource for people experiencing domestic violence. A task force assembled by Mayor Potts helped open Hope House on Jan. 1, 1983, and the organization celebrated 40 years in 2023.
In July 2021, the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum reopened after a $25 million, two-year renovation that created a new museum entrance and an interactive, permanent exhibit detailing Truman’s ascension to the presidency. Patrick Gallagher, owner of exhibit design firm Gallagher & Associates, said during an April 2021 sneak peek that “…Truman is the new benchmark for presidential libraries.”
A MASTERPIECE RESTORED
The Englewood Arts District is a comeback story rooted in community, history and the arts.
On a steamy day in 1949, all eyes were on the Englewood neighborhood as residents, visitors and dignitaries gathered to open a new landmark: the Art Deco-styled Englewood Theater, which opened July 7 in front of nearly 4,000 people.
The vibrant neighborhood grew around the movie theater and remained a beloved destination into the late 20th century, helped by retail cornerstones like the Ben Franklin Five and Dime store, located next to the movie theater. When the store closed in 2000, followed by the theater’s shuttering in 2007, the once-lively community saw an accelerated decline.
In a repeat of the area’s 1940s history, city leaders and advocates united again to revitalize the Englewood Arts District. The City of Independence established arts district zoning in 2011, requiring businesses in the district to display or sell art.
Artists began moving into the homes surrounding the district. The 2024 opening of the Englewood Arts Center acted as a catalyst to spark additional development and the launch of arts-focused events.
“Today, the neighborhood percolates with salons, galleries, working studios and a Third Friday Art Walk,” wrote Julius Karash for KC Studio magazine.
And in a full-circle moment, active efforts are underway to restore and reopen the Englewood Theater, led by non-profit organization Friends of Englewood Theater. Their goal, as outlined by Friends of Englewood Theater President Brent Schondelmeyer, is to transform the historic theater into a new cultural hub for eastern Jackson County. Their purchase also included the former Ben Franklin store.
As you keep tabs on the Friends of Englewood’s progress, there’s plenty to experience throughout the district. Learn a new skill like glassblowing, shop for collectibles and antiques or discover a new favorite wine, all while you’re surrounded by locally made art. The story of the Englewood Arts District is a comeback story that could easily be scripted for a Hollywood screen. And you can enjoy a frontrow seat as the story continues to unfold.
Make sure your Englewood Arts District exploring includes one of the following businesses. Better yet? Visit them all!
FRANNIE FRANK’S COFFEE CAKES
Named for a home baker known for pearls, heels, and coffee cakes, the family legacy lives on as Frannie’s daughter and granddaughter create award-winning cakes enjoyed nationwide.
ENGLEWOOD ARTS CENTER
From classes and local art to performances and history, the Englewood Arts Center offers it all. Located next to the historic Englewood Theater, it has become a vibrant community hub celebrating the arts.
ENGLEWOOD CAFÉ
ENGLEWOOD ARTS CENTER
This classic diner evokes the original small-town charm that made the area so appealing to residents and visitors. Come hungry to enjoy stick-to-your-ribs, homestyle cooking. A local favorite? The chicken fried steak. And breakfast is served all day.
VIVILORE
Part gallery, restaurant, and antiques shop, Vivilore fits right into the district. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine for lunch or dinner (with vegan and vegetarian options), then explore three floors of eclectic retail above—plus a must-see patio in warmer months.
WINE DOWN 109
What pairs better with art than wine? This neighborhood wine bar offers an extensive wine list, cocktails, mocktails, and beer—often served by owner Mary Ellen, known for remembering your order.
PUPPETRY ARTS INSTITUTE
With puppet shows, a free museum, and hands-on workshops, this interactive puppetry center is fun for all ages. Exhibits highlight local and global puppetry, including Kansas Citian Hazelle Rollins, whose factory operated from 1934–1985.
NIRVANA COFFEE & GAMES
Settle in with coffee or a cocktail and your favorite game at this relaxed, inviting space. Weekly events include chess, fiber art, music bingo, karaoke and trivia meet-ups. Or get lost in your favorite gaming universe on Saturdays, when Nirvana Coffee hosts open role-playing games (RPG) sessions.
OREGON CITY, OREGON
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA
(SUTTER’S FORT)
Before planes, trains and automobiles took us where we need to go, wagons were the go-to. And before Dwight D. Eisenhower started the interstate highway system, dirt trails guided travelers to the west as they sought opportunity and fortune. Independence’s prime location made it a key starting point as westward migration exploded. Trace the history of the trails and set off on a present-day adventure.
Throughout the 19th century, three transformative trails collectively known as the Westward Expansion Trails — Oregon, Santa Fe and California — would
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
take an estimated 500,000 emigrants west between 1843 and 1869. Because most travelers began their journeys in Independence, the city earned its enduring title as the Queen City of the Trails.
There are two spots in Independence where you can still see wagon ruts made by trail traffic. Or check out the National Frontier Trails Museum, the only museum in the nation that’s dedicated to the three great Western routes. An extensive collection of artifacts gives visitors a true feel for each of the three trails. Exhibits also detail the explorations of Lewis and Clark, the lives of early fur trappers and traders, and the myriad reasons why people decided to go West. Another museum highlight: the largest public research library in the country focused on the Western trails, including more than 2,000 first-person trail accounts.
The trails are so integral to the city’s initial development that you’ll still notice nods to the trio of trails throughout Independence, including 3 Trails Brewery, Three Trails neighborhood and Three Trails Lofts.
With the city’s history partially rooted in trails, it’s no wonder that present-day Independence offers an appealing range of recreational areas for a scenic, slower-paced type of sightseeing. Add one of the following stops to your Independence itinerary!
How’s this for a great day: Stop into Bass Pro Shops for some shopping, arcade-style games, and oversized aquariums. Then head across the street to Waterfall Park, which stretches along an 18-acre lake to create a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Relax with a picnic at the park shelter, spend time at the adjacent playground, or stroll the trail for a waterfall selfie.
4501 S. BASS PRO DR. VisitIndependence.com
Eighty-six acres of forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife await within George Owens Nature Park, a popular recreation destination since 1977. The park is open year-round, giving you an up-close look at seasonal changes, especially in areas like the butterfly and rain gardens. There’s no shortage of things to do outside, but be sure to check on a rotating selection of exhibits inside the DeWitt Nature Center, which also includes a pond display and four large aquariums.
1601 S. SPECK RD. VisitIndependence.com
Explore trail ruts spanning a quarter-mile, carefully preserved from the days of the Oregon, Santa Fe and California trails. Additional wagon ruts, or swales, can be found a half-mile away at the BinghamWaggoner Estate (p. 31).
2900 S. SANTA FE RD. VisitIndependence.com
This pioneer-themed accessible playground, designed to mimic a mining town, offers fun for the whole family! Interactive panels and sensory elements provide an entertaining way to explore and learn.
800 N. BESS TRUMAN PKWY. VisitIndependence.com
This 15.5-mile, partially paved hiking and biking trail gets high marks from reviewers on Trail Link for its proximity to several Independence hotels, making it an especially great recreation option for travelers. Strategically spaced picnic and bathroom amenities span the riverside trail. Yellow wildflowers are abundant in warmer months, and a small waterfall offers a lovely photo opportunity.
4000 S. LITTLE BLUE PKWY. VisitIndependence.com
Golf courses are abundant throughout the Kansas City metro area, including two public courses available in Independence.
Renowned golf course architect Craig Schreiner, whose portfolio spans public, private, and resort courses across North and Central America, designed Drumm Farm Golf Club across varied terrain of hills, forests, and wetlands. Additional amenities include a practice facility, pro shop, and a 9-hole executive course, an ideal place for beginners to hone their skills.
15400 E. 34TH ST. DrummFarmGolf.com
Transport yourself to the Ozarks at WinterStone Golf Course, a hilly, championship-caliber course also designed by Schreiner that winds through heavily treed land dotted with lakes and creeks. The course began as a limestone mine and is often described as a “hidden gem” among area golf courses. Unwind after your game at The Pavilion, a climate-controlled open-air facility that offers a lunch menu and prime views of the surrounding course.
17101 E. KENTUCKY RD. WinterStoneGolf.com
MORNING
AFTERNOON
EVENING
9:30 AM
Start with coffee and a breakfast bite at Main Street Coffeehouse, which puts you right on the historic Independence Square.
10:30 AM
Head one block north to spend the rest of the morning exploring the 1859 Jail Museum, the oldest building on the Independence Square. Tour 12 limestone jail cells, one of which held Frank James, Jesse’s brother, for 112 days
12:30 PM
Ready for lunch? Stop at Courthouse Exchange, which first opened in 1899 and was among Harry S. Truman’s favorite spots to grab a bite.
2:00 PM
It’s no surprise the Queen City of the Trails offers numerous trails and tours. Try the self-guided Visit Independence Truman Trail, 44 stops important to Truman’s life, or try the Pioneer Trails Adventures, which offers individual and group tours in muledrawn covered wagons for an authentic and memorable experience.
4:00 PM
Complete your day on the Square at the 1827 Log Courthouse, which, when built, was the only courthouse between Independence and the Pacific Ocean for 40 years. The building briefly served as a Mormon mercantile.
(Tours available by appointment: 816-325-7575)
MORNING
EVENING
11:30 AM
Begin your day where early Mormon settlers once gathered. Follow the onemile Visit Independence Mormon Trail through the heart of Independence. Along the way, you’ll stop at 15 meaningful sites, including the Gilbert and Whitney store, that bring this chapter of history to life.
1:00 PM
Enjoy a nostalgic lunch at beloved drive-in restaurant, Mugs-Up Root Beer, known for its Sloppy Joe-like zip burger. A frosty mug of root beer is a necessity! For more amazing local lunch and dinner spots, turn to page 16.
3:00 PM
Return to the historic Independence Square to explore the site of the city’s first Civil War battle, the First Battle of Independence, which started with an early morning surprise attack on August 11, 1862. Visit the historic marker at 121 W. Lexington Ave.
4:00 PM
Why not delve into your own history while you’re in Independence? The Midwest Genealogy Center boasts a collection of more than 250,000 books. Or browse census, military and Native American records on microfilm.
Check the center’s website to view upcoming events that coincide with your next visit.
MyMCPL.org/Genealogy
History buffs, you’ll find no shortages of places to explore and facts to learn throughout Independence! Staying for a weekend? Use this sample two-day itinerary to immerse yourself in local lore.
A guide to must-see homes and architectural styles in Independence.
BRYANT HOUSE
“THE
As Independence flourished in the mid- to late 19th century, several show-stopping Queen Anne-style homes were built; so many, in fact, that the city became known as Kansas City’s “royal suburb.” Queen Anne homes are part of the larger Victorian style and are typically characterized by ornate design features, wrap-around porches, gabled roofs, bay windows and stained or leaded glass.
EXAMPLES OF QUEEN ANNE-STYLE ARCHITECTURE THROUGHOUT INDEPENDENCE INCLUDE:
The Mollie and Josephine Hughes House, 801 S. Main St., was built in 1887 for sisters Mollie and Josephine. The 2½-story home joined a collection of mansions along Main Street, all owned by the Hughes family. (This privately owned home is not open for tours.)
One of the many benefits of Independence’s rich history and role as an early hub of the Kansas City metro area? The city is a chock-full time capsule of residential architecture, showcasing styles that span the Victorian era into mid-century designs. Make the following Architectural Digest-worthy homes part of your city sightseeing.
PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME OF THE FOLLOWING HOMES ARE PRIVATELY OWNED AND NOT OPEN FOR PUBLIC TOURS. TOUR AVAILABILITY WILL BE NOTED WHERE APPLICABLE.
The Bryant House, 522 S. Main St., was owned by Dr. John S., Jr. and Harriet Smart Bryant; he, a successful physician and businessman; she, the daughter of Judge Thomas Smart, a merchant, landowner, state legislator and county judge. Originally built in 1867, the Bryants expanded their home into a Queen Anne-Eastlake design around 1890. Bess Truman’s birthplace is nearby. (This privately owned home is not open for tours.)
The Bullene-Choplin House, 702 N. Delaware Ave., is part of the Harry S. Truman Historic Site. Numerous original elements of this 1887 home remain preserved today, including stained glass, bow windows and period-specific William Morris wallpaper. (This privately owned home is not open for tours.)
BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE
Second Empire architecture predates Queen Anne by two decades and was most commonly built between the 1860s and 1880s. Inspired by French Baroque design, these homes are known for their distinctive mansard roofs with dormer windows on all sides. More symmetrical and restrained than the ornate Queen Anne style, Second Empire architecture emphasizes balance over complexity.
Independence’s most notable example is the Vaile Mansion, considered one of the finest Second Empire homes in the U.S. Built in 1881 at 1500 N. Liberty St. by Colonel and Mrs. Harvey Vaile, the 31-room mansion was once called “the most princely house and the most comfortable home in the entire West.” Perhaps an accurate question is: what won’t you find inside the Vaile Mansion? Features include:
• NINE MARBLE FIREPLACES
• PAINTED CEILINGS
• A 48,000-GALLON WINE CELLAR
• A SOLID BLACK WALNUT STAIRCASE THAT WELCOMES VISITORS INSIDE THE FRONT DOOR
• AN EXTERIOR MADE FROM HAND-PRESSED RED BRICK
Today, the Vaile Mansion is carefully maintained by the Vaile Victorian Society. The home is open for tours and also hosts special events throughout the year, including beloved annual traditions like summer’s Vaile Mansion Strawberry Festival and Christmas-themed tours
Visit VaileMansion.org for more information.
Residential architecture abounds—and that’s just the beginning. Independence also features French Renaissance, American Foursquare, Prairie Style, antebellum homes, and Side Hall Plan architecture, including the Owens-McCoy Home at 410 Farmer Ave. The two-story, red-brick home is long and narrow, ideal for dense neighborhoods. It was later updated with Greek Revival and Italianate elements, including a front portico flanked by Ionic columns. (This privately owned home is not open for tours.)
Italianate-style architecture is on full display at the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, which housed famed artist George Caleb Bingham and his family just before the Civil War. The home was later purchased by the Waggoner family, early millers who migrated to Independence from Pennsylvania and launched the Queen of the Pantry flour brand. Located at 313 W. Pacific Ave., the estate sat along routes to the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon trails, where original wagon ruts remain visible today. The estate is maintained by the Bingham-Waggoner Historical Society, which offers tours, special events, and facility rentals.
Visit BWEstate.net for details.
After a mule train concept failed in 1854, the venture gave travelers a glimpse into the possibilities of rail transportation. The transcontinental Pacific Railroad reached Independence in 1868.
The uptick in train travel also caught more nefarious eyes, namely that of the infamous James brothers, Frank and Jesse, who set off a string of train robberies in 1879. Part of the city’s post-Civil War growth is credited to the increased commuter traffic as workers opted to live in Independence and ride the train into Kansas City to work.
In 1980, Amtrak launched passenger service between Kansas City and St. Louis with two trains known as the Kansas City Mule and the St. Louis Mule. Renamed the Missouri River Runner in 2009, the route now offers two daily round trips across the state.
Independence also celebrates rail history at the Missouri Model Railroad Museum, located in the historic WaggonerGates Mill Building. Exhibits explore Missouri rail travel through artifacts, art, scale models, and films.
Another can’t-miss stop is the Chicago & Alton Depot, believed to be Missouri’s only restored two-story frame station and one of its oldest. Tour the depot as it operated in the 1800s—its last passenger train departed in 1960.
Whether you’re boarding a train for a short jaunt or a multi-day journey, add the following songs to your music platform of choice. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Long Train Runnin'
The Doobie Brothers
C'mon Ride It
Quad City DJ's
Midnight Train To Georgia
Gladys Knight & The Pips
Love Train
The O'Jays
Long Black Train
Josh Turner
Downbound Train
Bruce Springsteen
Downtown Train
Rod Stewart
She Caught the Katy
The Blues Brothers
Midnight Flyer
The Eagles
Crazy Train
Ozzy Osbourne
Kansas City is one of 11 host cities welcoming the soccer world’s largest global event this summer. Watch parties, fan celebrations and official activations will be taking place throughout the Kansas City metro.
The good news? Independence is near two primary venues: Arrowhead Stadium, where games will be played; and the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which will host fan-focused activities and entertainment.
will host six matches during the tournament; all will be played at
An interactive, family-friendly event will be held over three weeks at the National World War I Museum and Memorial, fondly known as "Kansas City's front porch," and is easily reached via ConnectKC26 from Independence Center (also your route to the Stadium) or Independence Square.
Train, bus, car — there’s no shortage of ways to get from Independence to the heart of the action!
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE: 13910 E. Truman Rd
INDEPENDENCE CENTER: 18801 E. 39th St. Shuttles from Independence Square take you to the fan event at Liberty Memorial, while Independence Center connects you to Liberty Memorial and Arrowhead Stadium.
The Missouri River Runner — Amtrak’s service from St. Louis to Kansas City — will expand this year to three daily trains running April–June. Board the train in Independence for a 30-minute ride to downtown Kansas City’s Union Station, located across the street from the fan celebrations.
DETAILS: Amtrak.com
IRIS is an on-demand mobility service for all of Independence, offered by the City of Independence with KCATA, zTrip, and RideCo, allowing users to book rides by app, phone, or online.
ADA-eligible visitors or those with an apparent disability may use RideKC Freedom Paratransit Services for up to 21 days annually, after contacting the RideKC Freedom Regional Eligibility Office.
You’ll find no shortage of lodging throughout Independence, from quaint bed-and-breakfasts to premium hotels that help make both leisure and business travel a breeze.
ALBONÉE COUNTRY INN AND VINEYARDS
2200 S. CRENSHAW RD.
BEST WESTERN 18700 E. 37TH TERRACE ST.
CAMPUS RV PARK 500 W. PACIFIC AVE.
CANDLEWOOD SUITES 4545 S. TRACE PARK CT.
COMFORT SUITES INDEPENDENCE – KANSAS CITY 19751 E. VALLEY VIEW PKWY.
DRURY INN & SUITES INDEPENDENCE 20300 E. 42ND ST. S
HILTON GARDEN INN INDEPENDENCE 19677 E. JACKSON DR.
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES INDEPENDENCE 19901 E. VALLEY VIEW PKWY.
THE INN AT OPHELIA’S 201 N. MAIN ST.
MY PLACE HOTEL – KANSAS CITY EAST/INDEPENDENCE 20105 E. VALLEY VIEW PKWY.
RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT KANSAS CITY–INDEPENDENCE 3700 S. ARROWHEAD AVE.
SILVER HEART INN & COTTAGES 1114 S. NOLAND RD.
STAYBRIDGE SUITES KANSAS CITY–INDEPENDENCE 19400 E. 39TH PL. S
STONEY CREEK HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER 18011 BASS PRO DR.
THREE TRAILS LOFTS
208 ½ W. LEXINGTON AVE.
WOODSTOCK INN BED AND BREAKFAST 1212 W. LEXINGTON AVE.
(816) 220-2820
AlboneeCountryInn.com
(816) 795-1616
BestWestern.com
(816) 254-1815
TheCampusRVPark.com
(816) 381-7300 IHG.com
(816) 313-8891
ChoiceHotels.com
(816) 795-9393
DruryHotels.com
(816) 350-3000 Hilton.com
(816) 795-8889 IHG.com
(816) 461-4525 OpheliasRestaurant.com
(816) 491-2598 MyPlaceHotels.com
(816) 795-6466 Marriott.com
(816) 838-9508
SilverHeartInn.com
(816) 994-2700 IHG.com
(816) 908-9600 StoneyCreekHotels.com
(816) 320-5550
ThreeTrailsLofts.com
(816) 886-5656
WoodstockInnMO.com
INDEPENDENCE RESIDENT, TV PRODUCER, PAGEANT COMPETITOR
KS: Three years. The Square is one of the reasons we moved here — it looked like a Hallmark movie. That prediction proved accurate!
LIVED FAVORITE
KS: Courthouse Exchange! We take all of our out-of-town guests there. Our go-to order is the chicken fried chicken; and you have to get the fried mushrooms.
WORK AS A TV AND MOVIE
TOOK YOU TO THE SET OF “HOLIDAY TOUCHDOWN." DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE FROM THAT PROJECT?
KS: We were filming at midnight and I looked up and saw people in lawn chairs all around the outside of the courthouse. I’ve never seen a film set act as a tourist attraction, but everyone was so proud of the movie being filmed in Independence. The crew would have lunch at 3 Trails Brewing or stop into Main Street Coffeehouse , and everyone was welcoming and supportive. It felt like the city was part of the movie.
GS: The 1859 Jail Museum, which is owned and operated by JCHS. The two-story home was built in 1859, separated from the jail at the rear of the home by stone walls measuring three feet thick. After taking the guided tour, so many visitors rave that the museum is the best value on the Independence Square. We’ve also been renovating the 1870 Howard Schoolhouse, a one-room schoolhouse, including building a new foundation and refreshing the windows and paint.
Learn more about the Jackson County Historical Society and upcoming events, visit www.JCHS.org.
COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY LEADER/VOLUNTEER
The proximity of Independence to Kansas City may have ultimately diminished some of Independence’s early growth, but it’s now advantageous to travelers looking for a central location that connects them to points of interest throughout the metro.
HARRY S. TRUMAN SPORTS COMPLEX
Home of the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. Game site for the 2026 soccer action.
HERE’S A HANDY LIST OF CAR TRAVEL DISTANCES TO POPULAR KANSAS CITY DESTINATIONS
Historic Truman Courthouse on the Independence Square STARTING POINT:
KANSAS CITY ZOO & AQUARIUM
Explore more than 200 acres and nearly 10,000 animals.
WORLDS OF FUN AND OCEANS OF FUN
Amusement and Water Parks
NATIONAL WORLD WAR I MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL
The site of soccer fan central.
STATION & CROWN CENTER
Retail, dining and entertainment district.
Union Station is one of the several Kansas City Streetcar stops (free to ride). You can use the skybridge for a direct and covered pedestrian connection to Crown Center.
