Independence Travel Guide — Best Time, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Why Independence

Independence is a city located on the south bank of the Missouri River near the western border of Missouri. As the largest suburb on the state's side of the Kansas City metropolitan area, it functions as one of two county seats for Jackson County, with a small portion extending into Clay County. Recognized historically as the "Queen City of the Trails," Independence gained fame as a primary departure point for nineteenth-century pioneers heading west.

The region was originally home to Missouri and Osage Native Americans before becoming part of the United States through the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Following a stop by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804, Independence was formally established in 1827. Because it was the furthest point west on the Missouri River navigable by cargo steamboats, it swiftly grew into an essential outpost for the frontier fur trade and an outfit hub for travelers along the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails.

Religious history forms another central aspect of the city's heritage. In 1831, founder Joseph Smith identified a parcel of land west of the courthouse square as the site for a prophesied temple, bringing members of the Latter Day Saint movement to the area. Today, several denominations maintain headquarters in Independence, including the Community of Christ, the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), and the Church of Jesus Christ (Cutlerite). Visitors can explore the original Temple Lot, the Community of Christ Temple and Auditorium, and an adjacent visitors' center operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Independence is also widely celebrated as the hometown of 33rd U.S. President Harry S. Truman and his wife, Bess. Major historic attractions dedicated to their legacy include the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site, a boyhood residence, and the local courthouse where Truman worked as a county judge. Both the former president and first lady are buried in the city.

In addition to presidential and frontier history, the city offers numerous cultural destinations and events. Notable sites include the National Frontier Trails Museum, the historic 1852 Bingham-Waggoner Estate, the 1879 wooden Chicago and Alton Depot, and the Jackson County Jail and Marshal's House. Unique local displays can be found at Leila's Hair Museum, the Owens-Rogers Museum, and the Puppetry Arts Institute. Community celebrations include the annual Santa-Cali-Gon Days festival over Labor Day weekend and the Vaile Strawberry Festival in June.