For Visitors | City of Independence, MO

Things to Do

An abundance of recreational options await you here in Independence! Whether it’s taking a covered wagon ride on the historic Independence Square, attending all sorts of sporting events at Cable Dahmer Arena or relaxing in one of our beautiful parks.

Covered wagon pulled by mules with people smiling

Welcome to Independence!

Right outside of Kansas City and right in the heart of our nation’s history, Independence is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Feel the vibe and proximity of the city. Feel the roots of history and the legacy this area holds. Feel the hospitality of a hometown — even if it’s not your own. Sights, sounds, eats and shops await visitors of all ages looking for something new while feeling right at home. Independence is where the past is preserved, the present is embraced and the future is bright.

Image of the 2024 Independence visitor guide title with tents in the background

The 2024 Official Independence Visitor Guide is here!

Our official 2024 Independence visitor guide is hot off the press. From history to traditions and sporting events to one-of-a-kind stories of those who stayed, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

You can read and download our visitor guide here.

Image of BBQ food from A Little BBQ Joint

Independence BBQ

Image of burgers, onion rings, and drinks from Mugs Up

Casual Dining

Image of a table filled with food from Ophelia's Restaurant

Fine Dining

Image of macarons on a table

Sweet Treats

Salty Iguana Mexican Restaurant

International Food

Image of coffee and pastry on table

Coffee & Baked Goods

Image of sample of beer from 3 Trails Brewing

Drinks

Exterior of Clinton's Soda Fountain Shop

Truman Favorites

Boutique Hotels and B & B

Economy Hotels

Premium Hotels

RV Parks and Campgrounds

Looking for more?

Check out the 2024 Official Independence Visitor Guide. We have great itineraries for weekend getaways, girls weekends, and more!

Looking up at the statue of President Truman walking with his cane on the east side of the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence, Mo.

Discover Harry S. Truman

The peaked roof of the historic Victorian Vaile Mansion stands in the middle of the image with wispy white clouds in a blue sky behind it.

Historic Homes

Image of Harry S. Truman walking in his Independence, Missouri neighborhood. Member of the press walks beside him just outside of Truman Home.

Walking Trails

An image of an 1800s wagon with supplies for travel and a backdrop showing pioneers with their wagons preparing to head out West.

National Frontier Trails Museum

Aerial view of the Independence Square and the Historic Courthouse

Pioneers of Independence

Exterior of Community of Christ Temple

Religious Sites

Painting of the Town of Independence in 1838.

History of Independence

A picture of the interior of a library with bookshelves and chairs

Merril J. Mattes Research Library

Side view exterior image of the Vaile Mansion with holiday lights on.

Holiday tours at Vaile Mansion

Friday, December 6, 2024

10:00am

Vaile Mansion

Entertainment, Family Activity, Holidays

Santa in window making heart with hands. Children outside looking in window at Santa.

Living Windows on the Independence Square

Friday, December 6, 2024

4:00pm

Truman Courthouse

Entertainment, Family Activity, Holidays, Shopping

Image of the outside of the Vaile Mansion with holiday lights on the mansion and shrubs.

Champagne & Chandeliers

Saturday, December 7, 2024

9:42am

Vaile Mansion

Entertainment, Holidays, Shopping

Side view exterior image of the Vaile Mansion with holiday lights on.

Holiday tours at Vaile Mansion

Saturday, December 7, 2024

10:00am

Vaile Mansion

Entertainment, Family Activity, Holidays

Side view exterior image of the Vaile Mansion with holiday lights on.

Holiday Tours at Vaile Mansion

Sunday, December 8, 2024

1:00pm

Vaile Mansion

Entertainment, Family Activity, Holidays

Side view exterior image of the Vaile Mansion with holiday lights on.

Holiday Tours at Vaile Mansion

Thursday, December 12, 2024

10:00am

Vaile Mansion

Entertainment, Family Activity, Holidays

Photo of the American flag with sparklers in front of it

2024 Independence Day Celebration

Image of the visitor guide quarterly update for May-July 2024

Exploring Independence: Your Guide to Summer Adventures!

Image of white flowers in the spring

Blooming Heritage: Exploring Independence's Historic Homes, Parks, and Trails this Spring