Overview
Independence, known as the Queen City of the Trails, is a city in western Missouri just east of Kansas City with a population of approximately 110,000. Independence's founding predates that of Kansas City, and it was home to U.S. President Harry S. Truman and the legendary actress Ginger Rogers, as well as the starting point of three of America's great Westward Trails: the Santa Fe Trail, the California Trail, and the Oregon Trail. The city also hosts numerous historical sites related to the Community of Christ (formerly RLDS), Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormons"), American Civil War and Western history.
While offering a full range of entertainment and lodging options for visitors, Independence generally tends to be more "quiet" than its larger neighbor to the west. One notable exception is Labor Day weekend, when it holds its annual Santa-Cali-Gon Days, one of the most important yearly festivals held in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Another exception is during the biennial April general conferences of the Community of Christ, the second-largest Latter-day Saint denomination, whose world headquarters is in the city.
20 sights · 5 things to do · 4 places to eat · 2 bars & cafés · 6 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Independence
Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
Official library of the 33rd U.S. President. Hailed as America's "best presidential museum" by the Dallas Morning News, the Truman Library offers theaters, a museum, store, and some interactive "hands-on" exhibits togeth…
Harry S. Truman National Historic Site
The Independence home of the nation's 33rd President, completed in 1885 and furnished exactly as it was when Truman lived there. Only the main floor is open to visitors, via a guided tour conducted by National Park Servi…
Harry S. Truman Courtroom & Office
In the Old Courthouse at the center of Independence's historic square. Truman's first elected office was as a Jackson Co. judge (1922-24) -- an administrative, not judicial, position. During his term he worked in the his…
The Temple
Constructed from 1990-94, sits adjacent to the original "Temple Lot," and clearly dominates the city skyline. Designed by famed Japanese architect Gyo Obata, the edifice evokes the spiral shell of the Nautilus by using a…
The Stone Church
It was constructed during the late 1800s, and serves a local Community of Christ congregation. Beautiful stained-glass windows and woodwork.
The Auditorium
A large structure built between 1926-58 for holding the church's biennial convention. It was the church's headquarters, before erection of the Temple. It houses an Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ with 113 ranks and 6,334 pipe…
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: Apr–May, Sep–Oct. Summer highs reach about 90°F; winter lows dip to about 22°F. Very hot (Jul) — plan outdoor time for mornings. Cold months (Jan) can bring snow and ice; check road conditions. Wettest: Jun and May. (climate data from nearby Kansas City)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- MCI Kansas City International Airport, Kansas City — 22 mi away (major hub). Directions
- COU Columbia Regional Airport, Columbia — 119 mi away. Directions
Interstate 70 is the main east-west highway, while Interstate 435 (running north-south) passes just to the city's west. U.S. highways 24 and 40 and Missouri state highway 291, which becomes Interstate 470, south of I-70, also provide access to the city. I-70 offers six exits to Independence (from west to east, in order: Blue Ridge Blvd., U.S. 40/Sterling Ave., Noland Rd., Lee's Summit Rd., MO-291/I-470, and Little Blue Parkway), while I-435 offers three (from north to south, in order: U.S. 24/Winner Road, Truman Rd., and 23rd St.). At each of these three I-435 exits, you must turn east to head into Independence! Turning west will take you into Kansas City. Also, if you are taking I-435 south on the east side of Kansas City (as opposed to the west side; I-435 circles the Kansas City metropolitan area) and planning to exit onto I-70 east, be aware that this exit is a left exit, and it can be very slow-moving during "rush hour" times!
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
No prices are listed for this place yet. See the Sleep guide ↓ for options.
Sample 3-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning Historic Independence Square, Harry S. Truman Courtroom & Office, Clinton's Soda Fountain
- Lunch Ophelia's
- Afternoon 1859 Jail, Marshal's Home and Museum, Pioneer Spring Cabin
- Dinner Courthouse Exchange
- Evening 3 Trails Brewing Co
Day 2
- Morning Temple Lot, The Stone Church, United Nations Peace Plaza
- Lunch Cafe Verona
- Afternoon The Children's Peace Pavilion, Mormon Visitors' Center
- Dinner Dixon's Chili
- Evening Wine Down 109
Day 3
- Morning Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum, Vaile Victorian Mansion
- Afternoon Vaile Strawberry Festival
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
Several other restaurants, including the Longhorn Steakhouse, Hereford House and other national or local chain eateries are located at or adjacent to the 39th Street corridor, between Lee's Summit Road and the Little Blue Parkway. Smoking is prohibited in all restaurants, bars and other public establishments in Independence.
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Photos
Map
Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.
Understand
Get in
By car
Interstate 70 is the main east-west highway, while Interstate 435 (running north-south) passes just to the city's west. U.S. highways 24 and 40 and Missouri state highway 291, which becomes Interstate 470, south of I-70, also provide access to the city. I-70 offers six exits to Independence (from west to east, in order: Blue Ridge Blvd., U.S. 40/Sterling Ave., Noland Rd., Lee's Summit Rd., MO-291/I-470, and Little Blue Parkway), while I-435 offers three (from north to south, in order: U.S. 24/Winner Road, Truman Rd., and 23rd St.). At each of these three I-435 exits, you must turn east to head into Independence! Turning west will take you into Kansas City. Also, if you are taking I-435 south on the east side of Kansas City (as opposed to the west side; I-435 circles the Kansas City metropolitan area) and planning to exit onto I-70 east, be aware that this exit is a left exit, and it can be very slow-moving during "rush hour" times!
By bus
Nearest Greyhound station is in Kansas City, MO.
By train
Amtrak, +1-800-USA-RAIL. The unattended Independence Amtrak is at 600 S Grand Ave, near the intersection with W Pacific Ave. This station, locally known as the Truman Depot, is on Amtrak's Kansas City to St. Louis route, the Missouri River Runner, and offers trains twice daily in both directions. Tickets cannot be purchased or baggage checked at this station, which houses the Jackson Co. Genealogical Society, so it is best to call Amtrak's toll-free reservation center or visit their website before departure. Tickets may also be purchased locally at Union Station in downtown Kansas City. A ticket is not required for boarding, though a reservation is. The route boasts a 90% on-time rating.
By plane
Access by air requires use of one of three airports:
- [https://flykc.com/ Kansas City International Airport] is 40 mi (64 km) away. To reach Independence from the airport take I-29 south to I-435 east, then follow I-435 east and then south along KC's east side until you cross the Missouri River; after passing the Front St. exit south of the river, you'll see the Independence exits.
- [http://www.flymkc.com/ Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport], located in downtown KCMO, serves private, corporate and charter aircraft. From this airport, take I-70 east.
Get around
By bus
The Metro, Kansas City's municipal bus service, has very limited service (time and route-wise) within Independence. The main Independence terminal is located next to the police station at the intersection of Truman and Noland roads. Fares cost $1.50 full price (including one transfer within two hours of the ticket's purchase), or $0.75 reduced fare (seniors, those under age 18, and disabled persons). A "Visitor's Pass" is available for out-of-towners; it allows unlimited riding of the entire Kansas City bus system for three days for $8. Information is available at .
On foot
Walking tours of the historic town square, Truman historical sites and Mormon historical sites are available. For most visitors, a car, bicycle or other means of wheeled transportation will prove necessary if one intends to venture very far beyond the central square area, which contains most of the attractions listed below.
By taxi
Local taxi service is available, but taxies are generally only obtainable by phone and sometimes require a lengthy waiting period between the time when you first call for the cab and the time that it arrives to pick you up. Calling well in advance of your appointment or desired arrival time is advised, as is checking with the taxi service as to the expected time of the cab's arrival.
See
See Historic Independence Square
Features numerous family-owned shops surrounding the old main courthouse, which was modeled after Philadelphia's Independence Hall. This courthouse houses Harry S. Truman's former courtroom and office (see below).
See National Frontier Trails Museum
Museum and interpretive center dedicated to the history of the Overland Trails and the settlement of the American West. Independence hosted thousands of settlers, pioneers, soldiers and merchants as they prepared to cross the plains along one of three trails which began just off the city square: the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon. The museum offers film, a children's activity room, artifacts, journal entries, maps, and covered wagons, among other highlights.
See Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
Official library of the 33rd U.S. President. Hailed as America's "best presidential museum" by the Dallas Morning News, the Truman Library offers theaters, a museum, store, and some interactive "hands-on" exhibits together with a "Decision Theater." The museum contains a colorful mural by Thomas Hart Benton, together with a reproduction of the Oval Office. The displays seek to educate patrons about the major world-shaping decisions that Truman was involved in as President (including the use of the Atom Bomb during WWII, and the formation of the UN), together with details of his personal life. The lower level offers an area where kids can dress up like Harry and Bess, explore "feely" boxes, engage in an interactive computerized race, sort mail, make campaign buttons and posters and play a trivia game.
See Harry S. Truman National Historic Site (Truman Home)
The Independence home of the nation's 33rd President, completed in 1885 and furnished exactly as it was when Truman lived there. Only the main floor is open to visitors, via a guided tour conducted by National Park Service employees. Obtain tickets for $4 at their office at 223 N. Main St., then walk or drive a short distance away to the corner of Delaware St. and Truman Rd. to see the house itself. You must obtain the tickets at the Main St. office before attempting to enter the house! Tours are limited to eight persons at a time, and all tickets are sold on a "first-come, first-served" basis on the day of the tour only. A ticket purchased to tour the Truman Home is also good to tour the Truman Farm Home in Grandview on the same day, and vice-versa.
See Temple Lot
A grassy field dedicated in 1831 by Joseph Smith, Jr., founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormons") together with several smaller organizations claiming to be the legitimate continuation of that church. No temple has ever been constructed on this site, though the Community of Christ has built one across the street which the Utah LDS and other sects do not accept as legitimate. The vast majority of the world's Latter-day Saints believe that this particular piece of land, which is owned by the tiny Church of Christ-Temple Lot, will one day be the site of their most important spiritual edifice. Tours and information are available at the white church building located on the lot, which is the world headquarters of its current owners.
See Community of Christ World Headquarters
The Community of Christ, second-largest of the Latter-day Saint denominations, has its world headquarters in Independence, as do several other smaller groups. Its headquarters' complex consists of three buildings, all of which are open to the public:
See The Temple
Constructed from 1990-94, sits adjacent to the original "Temple Lot," and clearly dominates the city skyline. Designed by famed Japanese architect Gyo Obata, the edifice evokes the spiral shell of the Nautilus by using a stainless steel spire that rises 300 ft (91 m). Unlike temples of the larger LDS church, the Community of Christ's sacred structure is always open to non-members. Its main sanctuary features a Casavant pipe organ with 60 stops, 102 ranks, and 5685 pipes; recitals are held daily during June, July, and August (and Sundays only the rest of the year). Also held daily is a Prayer for Peace, which the public is encouraged to attend.
See The Auditorium
A large structure built between 1926-58 for holding the church's biennial convention. It was the church's headquarters, before erection of the Temple. It houses an Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ with 113 ranks and 6,334 pipes, including an antiphonal console and pipes in the rear balcony of the oval chamber. Seating nearly 6,000 people (as opposed to 1,600 in the Temple's main sanctuary), this building is used not only for religious ceremonies, but community events as well, including local graduation ceremonies and an annual performance of Handel's Messiah that has become a mainstay of the KC Christmas holiday season.
See United Nations Peace Plaza
Just west of the Temple Lot. This memorial features a beautiful sculpture of a young girl releasing a dove to symbolize the hopes and dreams represented by the United Nations. It is billed as the only monument in the U.S. dedicated specifically to peace outside of the UN's headquarters in New York.
See Mormon Visitors' Center
Describes the roles played by Latter-day Saints during the early and tempestuous history of Independence. Offers flat screen visual presentations showing the arrival of early Saints, revelations, and their pioneer lives. Also offers rare artifacts and exhibits documenting the history and beliefs of the Mormons, together with information on the adjacent Temple Lot. Free guided tours daily.
See 1859 Jail, Marshal's Home and Museum
The dungeon-like cells of the 1859 Jail housed thousands of prisoners during the bloodiest period of Jackson County's history. Some of its guests included Frank James (brother of Jesse James) and Confederate guerrilla leader William Quantrill. Part of the exhibit details how the local marshal and his family lived in the adjoining Federal brick two-story home. An 1870s-era schoolhouse and museum completes the site. A "historic homes combo" ticket is available for use with the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and the Vaile Mansion. Closed for the winter from Jan-Mar.
See Puppetry Arts Institute
Home to hundreds of puppets and marionettes from around the world and features a collection from the world's largest puppet factory in neighboring KC, owned and operated by famous puppeteer Hazelle Rollins. Visitors can also watch a movie, use the puppet resource library and see changing displays. Children can choose a puppet head from the now-closed factory inventory, paint it with professional puppet paint, attach a body, and stage an impromptu performance on one of the institute's stages. Monthly professional puppet shows are also offered.
See Bingham-Waggoner Estate
Built in 1852 along the Santa Fe Trail, this magnificent home was owned by American artist George Caleb Bingham. Extensively renovated in the 1890s, many furnishings and accessories from the era may be seen in the home, and original wagon swales from the Santa Fe Trail may be viewed to its south. A gift shop is in the carriage house. Closed for the winter from Jan-Mar. Directly across from the National Frontier Trails museum.
See Vaile Victorian Mansion
This 30-room mansion was built by frontier business tycoon Harvey Vaile in 1881. Recognized as one of the finest examples of Second Empire Victorian architecture in the U.S., the opulent estate boasted conveniences such as flushing toilets, a built-in 6,000-gallon water tank, painted woodwork and ceilings and nine different marble fireplaces. Closed for the winter from Jan-Mar.
See Pioneer Spring Cabin
This austere two-room log cabin offers a sharp contrast to Independence's opulent Victorian estates. It was constructed in an Irish community known as "Brady Town," and moved to its present location in 1971. A spring outside the Cabin has been recreated to represent the abundant natural springs that served weary trail riders, pioneers and livestock.
Do
Do Santa-Cali-Gon Days
An annual Labor Day weekend festival held intermittently since 1940 and continuously since 1973. It celebrates the city's heritage as the starting point of three great frontier trails, and has changed throughout the years: In the 1940s, men grew their beards from one Sant-Cali-Gon to the next in beard-growing contests, whereas the 1950s saw exhibitions of horses and covered wagons, together with numerous other items that might have been purchased in Independence before heading West. The festival, while retaining some of its old customs, has shifted to a carnival atmosphere, with numerous rides, booths and other venues offering a variety of food, beverages, crafts, entertainment (including Country and Gospel Music singers), and similar attractions. The "buffalo burgers" and funnel cakes are not to be missed! Held on and adjacent to the town square. Parking generally costs between $5-10, depending upon how close to the festivities you wish to be (and the availability of parking spaces!). Free.
Do Vaile Strawberry Festival
Held on the first Saturday of June at the Vaile Mansion, 1500 N Liberty, 5 blocks north of the Square. In addition to strawberry treats, there are other concessions, free live local entertainment, a massive arts, crafts, antiques and bedding plant sale and display on the grounds of the mansion, displays of antique cars and children's activities. Everything is free, except for home tours, food and drink and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Do Chicago & Alton 1879 Depot
The two-story depot contains three rooms on the first floor which are the waiting room, stationmasters room & baggage room. On the second floor, four rooms, which were formerly the stationmasters residence, are the kitchen, dining room, bedroom and the parlor. Each of these rooms is furnished in the period circa 1879. Inside you will find pot-bellied stoves, the original waiting room benches and old Chicago & Alton advertising posters.
Buy
A farmers' market is held on the northeast side of the Independence Sq., along Truman Rd., on Wednesdays and Saturdays, mid-May through mid-Sep. (Vendors are usually at the market around 5AM and most leave by 11AM.) The adjacent Independence Sq. holds numerous shops for antiques, curios, book, and more.
Eat
Eat Ophelia's
Featuring an eclectic menu including steaks and seafood. Also features an inn on-site with rooms ranging from $105-145 per night.
Eat Cafe Verona
Specializing in Italian cuisine.
Eat Courthouse Exchange
Open since 1899. A cosy basement restaurant serving burgers, sandwiches, steaks, fish, chicken and similar dishes. Also features a full bar offering a wide variety of domestic, import and microbrew beers.
Several other restaurants, including the Longhorn Steakhouse, Hereford House and other national or local chain eateries are located at or adjacent to the 39th Street corridor, between Lee's Summit Road and the Little Blue Parkway. Smoking is prohibited in all restaurants, bars and other public establishments in Independence.
Eat Dixon's Chili
Dixon's Chili has some of the best chili and chili-based dishes in the area. This restaurant has an old-time diner feel, a great staff, and great value. Some of the dishes include Dixon's signature dry chili, spaghetti, and all-you-can-eat tacos.
Drink
There are numerous drinking establishments around Independence, and most if not all restaurants serve alcohol.
(Smoking is prohibited in all nightclubs, bars and other public establishments in Independence.)
Drink 3 Trails Brewing Co
Craft beer by the glass or taster flight. Under 21 allowed with parent. Also has a golf simulator, $30/hr.
Drink Wine Down 109
Wine, martini, and cocktail lounge with a jukebox. Outside food allowed.
Sleep
Several major motel chains serve Independence, and there are also a number of bed-and-breakfasts available.
Stay safe
Although violent crime is very uncommon in Independence, it is not unknown. Carjackings, vandalism to cars and auto thefts do occur, and while the chances of being a victim are slim (though still higher than the MO and national averages), visitors should not allow the "small town" atmosphere of this city trick them into letting down their guard with regard to locking autos and hotel doors, leaving cars running unattended, paying attention to surroundings, etc. The Square area is relatively safe during daylight and evening hours.
The west side, particularly the portion west of Sterling Ave., is not known to be particularly safe at night, especially along Blue Ridge Blvd. between 23rd St. and U.S. 24. Avoid anything west of Sterling Ave. at night if possible. Since there are no hotels, restaurants or tourist attractions in this part of town, this should not be hard for visitors to do.
Go next
Place Truman Farm Home
Grandview. Harry Truman lived on this, his family's farm, from 1906-17. Tours F Sa Su from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9:30AM-4PM, limited to 6 people. Farm grounds open daily, year-round for self-guided tour. $4, ages 15 and under free. A ticket purchased to tour the Truman Farm Home is also good to tour the Truman Home in Independence on the same day, and vice-versa.
Place Fort Osage National Historic Landmark
This reconstructed frontier post once hosted famed American explorer William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame), who selected the site and drew up the plans for its construction. The site offers the reconstructed fort, together with living history exhibits and a museum. A few miles east off U.S. Hwy 24. Call before going for exact directions (you'll need them, if you're not familiar with the area!), as the fort is in a rural area some distance off the highway.
Place Missouri Town 1855
A fascinating 30-acre "town" using both authentic and reconstructed buildings to reconstruct what a frontier town in 1850s Missouri looked like. Professional living history guides interact with guests on this self-guided walking tour, dressed in 19th-century attire and depicting 19th-century lifestyles. Authentic field and garden crops and rare livestock breeds are available for visitors to view. Definitely worth the time and reasonable cost ($5, $3 children and senior citizens).
Place Native Hooved Animal Enclosure
The big draw being the wild buffalo (bring some carrots to feed them!), but other interesting animals lurk here too, like Elk and Deer. It's near to MO-7 and Lake Jacomo/Missouri Town. There are a few small buffalo calves in the herd now as well.
Place Battle of Lexington
Was the site of a Civil War battle fought in September 1861 later known as "The Battle of the Hemp Bales." After a fruitless three-day siege of the Union garrison, attacking Confederate forces used hemp bales soaked in river water to form a mobile breastworks, which they rolled slowly up to the Yankee trenches to enable them to finally force a Union surrender. The site, now a state park, offers a free museum, picnicking, and a walking tour of part of the old battlefield, where remnants of the old trenches and fortifications remain visible. Adjacent to the museum is the Anderson House, which served as a hospital during the battle (a small fee is charged to tour). Lexington is worth a full day or more in its own right, with numerous Antebellum houses and the Wentworth Military Academy.
Nearby
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Kearney
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Lexington
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