When you visit historic Independence you can almost hear the blazing guns of the Civil War and the rhythmic clatter of wagon wheels. It's also easy to imagine the cheers of the crowd as their home town hero returned from the White House. See for yourself why Harry loved his hometown. Package price includes lodging accommodations for one night and two adult tickets to each site (lunches and optional activities are not included).
Enjoy film by producer Charles Guggenheim, exhibits and memorabilia on Truman's presidency and private life. Of special interest is a full-scale reproduction of the Oval Office circa 1948 and the gravesites of Harry and Bess. The Museum has completed a $22 million renovation which includes a new multi-media exhibit with two interactive decision theaters on the Truman presidency. Also inlcuded are four interactive "discovery" activities for children.
500 W. 24 HwyIndependence, MO 64050(816) 268-82001 hour and 30 minuteswww.trumanlibrary.org
Built in 1881, this ornate 31-room mansion is one of the finest examples of Second Empire Victorian architecture in the country; with colorful ceiling paintings, hand wood-grained trim, crystal chandeliers, and 9 marble fireplace mantels.
1500 N. LibertyIndependence, MO 64050(816) 325-7430Allow 45 minuteswww.vailemansion.org
Enjoy lunch on the Historic Independence Square which once served as the rallying point for wagon trains heading west and many of Harry's favorite haunts. Families can enjoy a sandwich or full-course meal at one of the several eateries on the Square.
Main & LexingtonAllow 1 hour
Massive walls, barred windows that once housed Frank James give an authentic look at frontier justice; and mid-1800s home life. Four feet away is federalist style house that was home for county marshal until 1920s.
217 N. MainIndependence, MO 64050(816) 461-1897Allow 45 minuteswww.jchs.org
Stop to take a look at log cabin life in the 1800s.
Truman & Noland RoadIndependence, MO 64050Allow 20 minutes
Built in 1852 along the 1846 alignment of the Santa Fe Trail, this magnificent home was once owned by George C. Bingham, famed Civil War artist. In the 1890s the Waggoner's purchased the home and 95% of the furnishings are original to the home. Visit the unique Carriage House Gfit Shop.
313 W. PacificIndependence, MO 64050(816) 461-3491Allow 1 hourwww.bwestate.org
During America's expansion in the 1800s three great routes led the pioneers west, the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. All three began in or near Independence - known as the "Queen City of the Trails." Experience the history of the trails and the personal trials and adventures of the pioneers who opened the West through the Museum's exhibits and award-winning film.
318 W. PacificIndependence, MO 64050(816) 325-7575Allow 1 hourwww.frontiertrailsmuseum.org
Package price includes lodging accommodations for one night and two adult tickets to each site (lunches and optional activities are not included).
© 2010 City of Independence Department of Tourism