23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Independence (MO)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Independence, MO? Independence is the seat of Jackson County and Missouri’s fifth most extensive city. 

The city is well known for being the hometown of United States President Harry S. Truman, who formerly served as a judge for Jackson County before his presidential election.

Tourists can explore historical sites related to the ex-president, such as his former residence and the courthouse where he worked as a judge before his election.

Besides the historical sites, the city offers many fascinating attractions that will surely interest you, such as Cable Dahmer Arena, Waterfall Park, National Frontier Trails Museum, Independence Center, etc.

Are you planning an exploration of Independence? Here are the best things to do in Independence, MO.

Things to Do in Independence, MO

1. 1879 Chicago and Alton Railroad Depot

The Chicago and Alton Railroad Depot was built in 1879. It is Missouri’s sole fully renovated two-story train depot.

The depot was eventually transferred to its recent location and was restored in the decade from 1992 to 2002. It was moved by a non-profit organization called the Friends of the Chicago and Alton Depot.

Inside this two-story depot are three rooms on its first floor: the baggage room, the room of the stationmaster, and the waiting room.

The second floor of the depot contains four rooms which served as the former residence of the stationmaster, consisting of a parlor, bedroom, kitchen, and dining space. All of the rooms in the depot were well furnished to give the same look as in the 1800s.

Address: 318 W Pacific Ave, Independence, MO 64050, United States

2. Waterfall Park

The Waterfall Park is a mini park on Bass Lake within walking distance from Independence Greenways. It is one of the best places to visit in Independence, MO. With the Park’s name, anyone will imagine a waterfall inside. However, there is none except for one that is close by.

After exiting the Park, take a short journey east along East Bluff Drive to reach the waterfall. The Park’s westbound lane is closed from car traffic to ensure safe crossing for pedestrians. The waterfall is a beautiful sight to behold and makes up for a perfect background to take pictures.

Waterfall Park, located adjacent to the Bass Pro Shop on the other end of an 18-acre lake, features picnic tables, restrooms, paved walking trails, playground equipment, and a nearby massive waterfall.

Address: 4501 S Bass Pro Drive, Independence, MO 64055, United States

3. Darkwood House Gallery

The Darkwood House Gallery is home to a selective team of successful figurative painters inspired by the mysterious, macabre, and unreal themes that fill their creations.

They are dedicated to showcasing different interpretations of dark, morbid, unusual, weird, macabre, and strange art creations, programs, and events to the public.

As a team, they are committed to actively supporting or encouraging the artistic creations of dark artists and offering them an excellent platform to showcase their works.

The gallery is also looking for artists whose subjects and style reflect dark art, not minding the type of media they use. This gallery has everything from antiques to taxidermy, photographs, artworks, and books on diverse macabre subjects. If you are interested in dark art, be sure to stop by.

Address: Lower Level, 10916 E Winner Rd, Independence, MO 64052, United States

4. Harry S. Truman National Historic Site

Numerous sites in Independence, MO, are connected with the legacy and history of Harry S. Truman. Still, the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site is the most significant of all these locations.

The National Park Service manages the site. It was officially announced as a National Historic Site in 1983. This property served as a residence for Truman from 1919, when he got married, and was that way not until the ex-president died in 1972.

Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the home of Truman for a better understanding of the events that transpired in the life of the former president and his family. In 1983 The site was declared a National Historic Site. 

The Truman Home in Independence and the Truman Farm Home on Grandview are the primary features of this historical site. It also has the Noland home belonging to Truman’s cousins and the Frank and George Wallace house of Bess Truman’s brothers.

Address: 223 N Main Street, Independence, MO 64050, United States

5. The Community of Christ International Headquarters Temple and Auditorium

The Community of Christ International Headquarters Temple, previously called the RLDS Auditorium, is a place of worship and office building. 

The building was built entirely in 1958 after years of planning and construction. The facility hosts 6,000 people and is owned by the Community of Christ. 

When you visit the Auditorium, check out its Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ, which is on the world’s list of 75 largest pipe organs. It features 6,334 pipes and 113 ranks.

From 1968 to 1993, a famous organist named John Obetz held his monthly radio program known as the “Auditorium Organ” where he played the Aeolian-Skinner pipe to public listeners right from this Auditorium.

Self-guided tours of the temple are available so visitors can explore the Worshiper’s Path, which showcases symbolic religious art, or visit the Meditation Chapel, which showcases an outstanding stained glass display and a museum featuring artifacts significant to the church’s history.

Address: 1001 W Walnut St, Independence, MO 64050, United States

6. Truman Courthouse

Truman Courthouse is located at the center of Historic Independence Square. The courthouse has a history that predates Harry S. Truman’s incumbency as the Presiding Judge of Jackson County by roughly ten years before he became president. 

Guided and complimentary courthouse tours are available between 11 am and 2 pm on Tuesdays and Fridays. The Jackson County Historical Society offers these tours.

Enjoy a tour of Truman’s courtroom and office, discover the fascinating history of the building, and browse through the artistic features of the Jackson County Museum of Art. Tours start on the first floor of the historic center.

Make sure to explore the surrounding areas, which feature President Truman and Andrew Jackson statues. There are also historical markers and monuments dedicated to honor pioneers, the Civil War and Sante, Oregon Trails, and California’s starting point.

Address: 112 W Lexington Ave, Independence, MO 64050, United States

7. The Puppetry Arts Institute

For unique entertainment, visiting the Puppetry Art Institute should be on your bucket list of the best things to do in Independence, MO.

The Puppetry Arts Institute is a multifaceted institute featuring an exceptional museum devoted to Hazelle Rollins, an ingenious businesswoman from Kansas who established a company for making puppets that are known globally alongside her instruments.

The exhibit devoted to Hazell offers a diverse range of finger puppets, marionettes, hand puppets, and components utilized in making her company’s puppets.

Besides the museum, this institute also features a theater and puppetry center, offering professional puppetry shows, monthly puppet demonstrations, and workshops for puppet-making and puppet repair.

Address: 11025 E Winner Rd, Independence, MO 64052, United States

8. National Frontier Trails Museum

This Museum is dedicated to preserving and narrating the significant history of America’s pioneering trails, such as the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails, through its history museum, interpretative center, and research library. 

The museum provides exhibitions that showcase the discovery and settlement of the West, with remarkable artifacts like original diaries, letters, and covered wagons.

The Merrill J. Mattes Research Library is also located in the museum, featuring the vastest public collection of writings concerning the trails in the country. The library is open to everyone, and admission fees are relatively fair.

To add to your experience, you can check out the historic trails utilized by the emigrants as they journeyed to the West. The courses are located across the street from the museum.

The existential proof of these trails is visible through swales used in marking out the paths threaded by the emigrants. There are also interpretive signs that narrate the history of the journey.

Address: 318 W Pacific Ave, Independence, MO 64050, United States

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9. Harvey M. Vaile Mansion

Harvey M. Vaile Mansion is located in the center of Hudson Valley, the beautiful mansion was built in 1881 for Harvey Merrick Vaile, a merchant and Colonel.

The stunning mansion is a typical example of the Second Empire architectural style, and the home has unique design components that gained it the title of “showplace of Jackson County” in the 19th century. 

The mansion was also listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. In 1983 the property was acquired by the city of Independence and is operated as a museum.

Guided tours of the mansion are available, allowing visitors to see the massive 48,000-gallon wine cells and the impressive design elements of the estate, like its fine marble fireplaces.

Address: 1500 N Liberty St, Independence, MO 64050, United States

10. 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home and Museum

The 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home, and Museum is a building in Independence, Missouri, formerly used as a county jail for Jackson County, Missouri, until it became inactive in 1933.

The building was eventually restored and serves as a museum to the public. Due to its historical importance, it also earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

A tour of the museum allows visitors to delve into the history of the county marshal building, the limestone jail cells of the museum, and chain gang amenities, which were utilized as civilian and military prisons in the American Civil War.

Through the various information and exhibits in this museum, visitors can also discover the facility’s connection with famous criminals, such as Frank James, the older brother of Jesse James. The museum is open from April to October and at specific hours during December because of Christmas.

Address: 217 N Main Street, Independence, MO 64050, United States

11. Independence Mormon Visitors’ Center

Another fascinating historic landmark to check out during your vacation in the city is the Independence Mormon Visitor’s Center. Visiting this Center is one of the top things to do in Independence, MO, especially if you are a history enthusiast.

The Mormon Visitor Center in Independence, Missouri, was dedicated in 1971. It is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints.

The headquarters of the church of Christ is close to the community of Christ’s temple and is situated at the Greater Temple Lot, which Joseph Smith bought and dedicated in 1831.

The exhibits in the museum narrate the history of Mormon people who resided in Missouri from 1832 through 1939. It also highlights the importance of families and the doctrines of the Book of Mormon conveyed by recent prophets.

Address: 937 W Walnut St, Independence, MO 64050, United States

12. Be Here Now

Stop by Be Here Now, a furniture store in Independence, MO, to shop for beautiful home decor souvenirs to give your home an attractive look.

The store inventory features a broad selection of home decor items, such as furniture, tabletop wares, lighting, etc.

Patrons can place orders to be delivered to the store for instant pickup, or they can go through their wide selection of exceptional items. There are many items to choose from to enhance your decor at home.

In addition, Be Here Now welcomes old furniture for refurbishing to give it a much more current or fashionable appearance. There are many fascinating things to buy at affordable prices when you visit the store. 

Address: 205 W Lexington Ave, Independence, MO 64050, United States

13. Dixon’s Chili Parlor

Dixon’s Chili Parlor is a popular restaurant in the city of Independence. Its history dates back to when it first started as a street cart established by Vergne Dixon in the historic district of Independence.

The Chili street cart received national recognition after being visited by President Harry S. Truman in 1952. This remarkable event was showcased in Life Magazine, and Chili also got the title of Dixon’s “Famous” Chili.

A permanent venue was opened for Chili Parlor, which operated as a complete restaurant in the 1969s.

The restaurant is currently owned and run by Terri Totta Smith, providing its famous made-to-order chili platters. The platters can be served with beans, spaghetti, or tamale spreads. Their toppings comprise ketchup, grated cheese, ketchup, and jalapeno relish.

Address: 9105 East US Hwy 40, Independence, MO 64055, United States

14. Crest Family Fun Center

Crest Family Fun Center is undoubtedly an ideal destination to enjoy a fun-filled day with the entire family. Visiting it should make your bucket list of fun things to do in Independence, MO.

This destination is a leading family entertainment venue that has been operating in the city for over seventy years. There are diverse recreational amenities available at the center for your pleasure and enjoyment.

This family fun center is perfect for hosting your next birthday celebration, a family friend’s night out, or even a corporate meeting.

Some of the attractions at Cool Crest Fun Center include batting cages, go-karts, a children’s playground, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a 7,000-square-foot video game arcade, and a complete pizzeria and restaurant.

Address: 10735 E US Hwy 40, Independence, MO 64055, United States

15. George Owens Nature Park

Since 1977, George Owen Nature’s Park has allowed families to revive their connection with their natural environment. Exploring this Park is one of the fun things to do in Independence, MO.

The Park is available throughout the year, offering 86 acres of stunning beautiful forest, serene lakes, scenic hiking trails, and wildlife. The Park amenities include three miles of hiking trails, a family picnic site, bioswales, rain gardens, two fishing lakes, and a butterfly garden.

Some activities you can do at this Park are fishing, birdwatching, hiking, geocaching, nature photography, picnicking, and wildflower watching. They offer rental services for the Park’s lodge, pavilion, and organized group campground area.

Additionally, you can visit the DeWitt Center within the Park to explore its many exhibits, which are also suitable for all ages, including four big aquariums and a pond display. 

Address: 1601 Speck Rd, Independence, MO 64057, United States

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16. Bingham-Waggoner Estate

Bingham-Waggoner Estate is nestled amidst a lush grove of black walnut trees on nearly 20 acres of land south of the famous Independence town square. It is one of the best places to visit in Independence, MO.

The estate was the former residence of a world-renowned painter named George Caleb in the Civil War era. After some time, its ownership changed hands to the Waggoner family, who resided there for 97 years, retaining 90 percent of the original furnishings.

In 1979 the city of Independence acquired the estate, which currently serves as a historical museum providing tours for the general public. The entire residence is well-maintained and kept. You can enjoy a guided tour of this historical landmark and learn about its history.

Address: Bingham-Waggoner Home, 313 W Pacific Ave, Independence, MO 64050, United States

17. Apex Aleworks Brewery & Taproom

If you are a beer enthusiast, one of the top things to do in Independence, MO, is to visit Apex Aleworks Brewery and Tap Rooms. It is located in a neighborhood setting and specializes in craft beers.

The local brewery was established in 2018 and swiftly became well-known amongst craft beer enthusiasts. It is also the first nano brewery in Independence, MO. In 2021, outdoor seating was added to improve the craft beer experience of their customers.

The brewery has a taproom that provides a range of craft beers on tap, including Lager, Wheat, Stout, Kolsch, Pale Ale, Season, Pilsner, and IPA. They also offer homemade margaritas, seltzers, ginger beer, and cocktails. 

Address: 4356 S Noland Rd, Independence, MO 64055, 816-642-2901, United States

18. Independence Center

The Independence Center is a shopping mall that is 1,032,000 square feet. It was opened to the public in 1974. The shopping mall draws a large crowd of visitors annually with anchor stores such as Dillard’s and Dick’s Goods.

There are over 100 retail stores in the mall, which comprise men’s, children’s, and women’s stores like American Eagle Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret, Forever 21, and H&M.

The Independence Center also features a massive indoor kiddie’s playground in this region with a two-story carousel.

You can also check out the various restaurants in the mall ranging from well-known eateries like Vine Tavern to quick-service eateries like Gloria Jean’s Coffees, Auntie Anne’s, and Noodles and Company.

Address: 18801 East 39th St S, Independence, MO 64057, United States

19. Gilbert Whitney & Co.

In 1833 Gilbert and Whitney operated as a small establishment on the intersection between Liberty and Lexington streets in Independence Square.

The shop eventually changed ownership, and the new owners decided to renovate the building to its original state. Its name was changed to Gilbert Whitney Co.

It is a go-to store to shop for all your kitchenware, including culinary utensils, bakeware, baking aprons, pans, and other exceptional items that you might need.

Additionally, the shop contains items from brands such as Bordica Ware and Lodge. Breville and others. You can also check out their selection of gourmet foods, drinks, and made gift boxes,

Address: 104 N Liberty St, Independence, MO 64050, United States

20. Top Hat Winery

For winery enthusiasts, on your itinerary of what to do in Independence, MO, should be a visit to Top Hat Winery at the historic Independence Square in the city.

This family-owned winery provides its guests with a welcoming ambiance for them to enjoy different types of wines and hard cider.

The wines manufactured at Top Hat Winery span from dry to sweet. Their diverse wine selection caters to different tastes and levels of wine lovers, spanning from novices to connoisseurs. 

Top Hat Winery produces over sixty wines and over twenty distinct hard ciders. Check out their tasting room to enjoy a vast selection of wines plus four hard ciders, available daily on tap.

Address: 120 South Main St, Independence, MO 64050, 816-248-9436, United States

21. The Midwest Genealogy Center

The Midwest Genealogy Center, established in 1971, operated from a room inside the Independence Branch of the Mid-Continent Public Library system. It has become part of the country’s foremost centers for learning family history and genealogy.

The Genealogy Center relocated to its present independent site in the city’s center in 2008. Presently the center features over 52,000 square feet of detailed resources linked to family history and genealogy. It also offers access to more than three-quarters of a million online resources. 

Visitors to the center can delve into their personal family histories or do their research based on the families of famous historical people from this region, such as President Harry S. Truman.

 Address: 3440 S Lee’s Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055, United States

22. V’s Italiano Ristorante, Independence

The V’s Italiano Ristorante, previously called the V’s Cafe, was established in 1963 by Vita and Jay Totta and offers tasty Italian family dishes that you should try.

The restaurant underwent a much-needed expansion in its current venue. It currently features a beautiful dining room with 150 people and a gorgeous wood arbor showcasing grape vines cultivated by Tony Barber, Totta’s father.

Visitors can savor delicious Italian recipes like chicken lemonata, native seafood cioppino, veal shank osso bucco, and veal parmesan at the restaurant.

 You can also try out their pasta favorites, such as fettuccine alfredo and candy alongside Kansas City strip steaks, classic filet mignon, and prime rib au jus.

Address: 10819 East US Hwy 40, Independence, MO 64055, United States

23. Cable Dahmer Arena

Cable Dahmer Arena was previously called the Silverstein Eye Centers. It is a 5,800-capacity multiple-purpose arena in Independence, MO.

Since its inception in 2009, the arena has been a destination for hosting live sports and entertainment. If you love sports, it should be on your checklist of what to do in Independence, MO.

The Cable Dahmer Arena serves as a home and administrative base for the Kansas City Mavericks playing in the ECHL and a home ground for the Kansas City Comets of the Major Arena Soccer League.

Over 100 hundred events are hosted annually at the Cable Dahmer Arena, such as trade shows, festivals, professional sporting events, concerts, community events, and its chief tenant, Kansas City Mavericks. 

Address: 19100 E Valley View Pkwy, Independence, MO 64055-6935, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Independence, MO

The city of Independence is famed for its fascinating history and unique attractions. There are many things to do in the city. Our carefully-curated list of some of the best things to do in the city will help you plan your vacation for a fantastic experience. Do visit!