Independence is rich with history as the starting point of the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails and home of President Harry S. Truman. You can learn about his humble lifestyle at the Truman Home in Independence and visit the newly renovated Truman Presidential Library. Visit other historic sites including Vaile Mansion, the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, the 1859 Jail Museum and the National Frontier Trails Museum. A unique destination, the Puppetry Arts Institute offers puppet shows and puppet-making workshops. Another favorite for history buffs is a ride with Pioneer Trails Adventures, which offers you the chance to take a mule-drawn wagon ride through the historic square while hearing stories of the city’s history.
Nature lovers enjoy a visit to Powell Gardens, home to a beautiful island garden, rock wall garden, conservatory, Heartland Harvest Garden and acres of trails with magnificent flowers, plants and prairie. Enjoy seasonal festivals and special exhibits at this botanical garden. During the holiday season, attend the Festival of Lights, a magical holiday event. On your way, stop at Cockrell Mercantile Company, a quaint mini-village of boutique shops where you’ll find special items for the home and kitchen. For a free outing, visit Burr Oak Woods Nature Center where you can walk miles of trails.
Downtown Lee’s Summit is home to shops and boutiques, including bookstores, hobby shops, clothing boutiques, art galleries, cooking stores and more. The city’s quaint weekend farmers market is a favorite for locals. Visit Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park, in Lee’s Summit (additional locations available across the metro), or K1 Speed, a world-class indoor go-kart track. Or entertain the gang at Main Event in Independence, where you can enjoy arcades, bowling, billiards, laser tag, obstacle courses and more. All year long, you may enjoy Independence Community Ice, an indoor ice-skating rink, and live shows at Cable-Dahmer Arena.