Trip Ideas: Presidential Stomping Grounds
A visit to Independence can include a wide variety of American history, from pioneer days to the times of Jesse James and Harry S. Truman.
Morning
Dave's Bakery & Deli
Dave's Bakery & Deli
Fresh homemade baked goods. Special deli bread baked fresh daily. Combo meals served.
214 W. Maple, 816-461-0756.
Corner Café
The counter, the round table, the food, the service; they are all fashioned to recreate what people have come to expect from a 50’s diner.
4215 S. Little Blue Parkway, 816-350-7000.
Harry S. Truman Library and Museum
The Truman Library offers theaters, a museum store and dozens of interactive and hands-on exhibits designed to engage all ages. Step into a replica of President Truman’s Oval Office, test your presidential courage in Decision Theaters, and experience some of the most dramatic moments in American history. Truman's grave is on-site.
500 W. Route 24, 800-833-1225.
1859 Jail, Marshal's Home and Museum
The dungeon-like cells of the 1859 jail housed thousands of prisoners during the bloodiest time in Jackson County's history. Hear the stories of the famous to the infamous, including Frank James and William Clark Quantrill. An 1870s schoolhouse completes the site.
217 N. Main St., 816-461-1897.
Afternoon
Square Pizza
Delicious pizzas one square at a time. The freshest ingredients and homemade sauces to top baked crusts.
208 West Maple, 816-461-2929.
Gates BAR-B-Q
Gates BAR-B-Q
Family restaurant established in 1946, has grown from a single storefront at 19th and Vine to a family of five up-to-date restaurants throughout the Kansas City metro area; all struttin' the Gates Bar-B-Q unique red roof design and man in full tuxedo top hat.
10440 East 40 Hwy., 816-353-5880.
Harry S. Truman National Historic Site
The Truman Home in Independence was President Harry S. Truman's residence from 1919 until his death in 1972 - before, during and after his service as President. Tour tickets must be obtained at the visitor center at 223 North Main St., in downtown Independence. Also visit the farm house in Grandview. From age 22 until he was 33, Truman lived here on his grandmother's farm. Both locations are operated by the National Park Service.
816-254-9929.
Bingham-Waggoner Estate
Built in 1852 along the 1846 alignment of the Santa Fe Trail, this estate was owned by George Caleb Bingham, famed Missouri Civil War artist.
313 W. Pacific Ave., 816-461-3491.
Evening
Café Verona
A dining experience that will stimulate the senses and satisfy appetites with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Salad bistecca, pistachio salmon, filet with mac-and-cheese and steak Florentine are just a small sample of the tempting dishes served daily.
206 W. Lexington, 816-833-0044.
Ophelia's Restaurant
A unique fixture on Independence Square for over 10 years, Ophelia’s serves eclectic American cuisine with something for everyone from sandwiches and salads to steak, seafood and pasta.
206 N. Main, 816-461-4525.