Go Back in Time

Living history museums are a favorite local attraction, with several historic sites telling the area’s history through reenactments and hands-on education. Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm in Johnson County brings 1850s farming to life with tours and programs all year, including stagecoach rides, family programs and a working blacksmith shop. On snowy Saturdays, enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides on the property. Missouri Town 1855 and Shoal Creek Living History Museum are two historic villages teaching pioneer life through fun events, festivals and programs. Shawnee Town 1929 is a slightly more modern village where families explore living history firsthand.

It's been said that jazz was born in New Orleans but it grew up in Kansas City. There’s no better place to experience Kansas City jazz and celebrate our finest musicians than at 18th & Vine with a visit to the American Jazz Museum and a live concert at the Gem or the Blue Room. Then, head next door and visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, where you’ll discover the history of American baseball from the African American perspective, beginning in 1863, and get to know many famous local baseball stars. Measure up against the life-size bronze statues of players in mid-game on the baseball diamond. 

Independence, MO, was home to the 33rd president of the United States, Harry S. Truman. Learn about his childhood at the Truman Farm, his humble lifestyle at the Truman Home in Independence and his presidency at the Truman Presidential Library. There, visitors participate in interactive exhibits, including a replica Oval Office; they also explore Truman artifacts and special exhibits. At the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence, you can load a wagon bound for Oregon and learn about the Westward Expansion. For a truly historic experience, take a wagon tour with Pioneer Trails Adventures.