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Independence

· Independence, MO

Why you should go…

Independence, Missouri, just east of Kansas City, was the starting point for the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails and later the home of President Harry S. Truman. Truman's presidential library and his family home are both preserved in town, alongside a walkable historic square.

  • #harry truman
  • #historic square
  • #trails
  • #kansas city area

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

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

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Independence, 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.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Museums

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

    Under $25

    Freshly reimagined after a $29M overhaul: the atomic bomb decision, a recreated Oval Office, and Truman's grave in the courtyard.

    0.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • 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.

    7.0 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    KC Streetcar

    Free

    A free, frequent streetcar linking River Market, Power & Light, Crown Center, Union Station and the Plaza.

    9.0 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Kansas City

    Free

    A Missouri River metro known for jazz and barbecue history, hundreds of fountains, and a walkable downtown.

    9.1 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Family Favorite

    Kansas City, Kansas

    Free

    Kansas's third-largest city, home to Kansas Speedway, the Legends shopping district, and Sporting KC's stadium.

    9.7 mi awayMore like this