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Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 · Independence, MO

Why you should go…

A short drive east in Independence, Truman's hometown, this presidential library reopened in 2021 after a $29 million transformation, and it shows. Galleries walk you through the decisions that defined the 20th century: dropping the atomic bomb, the Marshall Plan, desegregating the armed forces, the Berlin Airlift. Stand in a recreated Oval Office, see the famous "The Buck Stops Here" desk sign, then pay respects at Truman's gravesite in the courtyard. History buffs should budget half a day.

  • #history
  • #presidential library
  • #truman
  • #independence
  • #wwii

Good to know

General museums guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Check the special exhibition separately

    Touring shows usually carry their own ticket and their own opening hours, listed apart from general admission.

  • Look for the free window

    Many museums run community days, member evenings, or discounted late openings. It is worth a look before you pay full price.

  • Travel light through the door

    Large bags and backpacks often have to go to a coat check, and lines for it move slowly at opening.

  • Weekday mornings beat weekend afternoons

    School groups clear out by early afternoon midweek, while weekends stay busy from late morning on.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    Local Gem

    Midwest Genealogy Center

    Free

    One of the largest public genealogy research libraries in the country, free to use, in Independence.

    0.8 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    History Buff

    Independence

    Free

    A historic Kansas City suburb and hometown of President Harry S. Truman.

    0.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Worlds of Fun

    $50+

    KC's classic theme park: 100+ rides including the Mamba and Prowler coasters, plus Oceans of Fun waterpark.

    6.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Eat & Drink
    Iconic

    Arthur Bryant's Barbeque

    Under $25

    The legendary 18th & Brooklyn temple of KC barbecue, burnt ends piled on white bread, sauce with grit, and a line worth standing in.

    7.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Eat & Drink

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

    Under $25

    The world's only museum devoted to the Negro Leagues, in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District.

    7.3 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
    Local Gem

    American Jazz Museum

    Under $25

    In the historic 18th & Vine district, hands-on exhibits trace Charlie Parker, Ella, and Duke, with live sets in the museum's own Blue Room club.

    7.6 mi awayMore like this