Best Tourist Attraction Independence Near Me

Jim C: A wonderful museum and story worth telling of the pioneer history that started in Independence, MO.By understanding our history we can educate future generations.This museum needs the support of our City, State and Nation - NOW at a critical time in this Cities History to recognize it’s Past.

Jim Hink: This place is an embarrassing slight on Independence Missouri . Clearly, due to low visitors or some other number crunching #s, this place is Clearly low on a up keep priority. This town has such Pioneering, Oregon trail history, and the City Clearly dropped the ball on this place. Relying on mostly paper pamphlets and almost no radio, social media popups, or other routes to advertise in, this place could be so amazing!!! No covered wagons out front to take pictures on or look at , or other outside interactive activities to entice interaction and quriosity from visitor's. I believe the City may not be in touch with how much revenue they have, but sadly, it goes underutilized .

Kirk Coats CCC: cool place very knowledgeable

John Michael Thompson: The National Frontier Trails Museum is an exceptional institution that provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the pioneering era in America. I recently had the opportunity to visit this museum, and I must say it exceeded my expectations in every way.From the moment I entered, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The museum's layout is well-designed, guiding visitors through a chronological journey of the frontier trails that played a pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering a wealth of information and captivating artifacts that bring the history to life.One aspect that impressed me greatly was the museum's dedication to inclusivity and diversity. It recognizes and acknowledges the experiences of not only the European settlers but also the Native American tribes, African Americans, and other groups who had significant roles in the development of these trails. This comprehensive approach provides a well-rounded perspective of the era and fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of the time.The museum offers a range of interactive displays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history. From simulated wagon rides to hands-on activities that replicate the challenges faced by the pioneers, there is something for everyone to engage with. The staff members are knowledgeable and passionate, readily available to answer questions and provide additional insights.Additionally, the National Frontier Trails Museum offers educational programs and special events that further enhance the visitor experience. These initiatives cater to a diverse audience, including students, families, and history enthusiasts, making the museum a valuable resource for both learning and entertainment.In conclusion, the National Frontier Trails Museum is a gem that showcases the pioneering spirit of the American West. Its well-curated exhibits, interactive displays, and commitment to inclusivity create an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you have a deep interest in history or simply want to explore a fascinating chapter of America's past, this museum is a must-visit destination.

T Dwayne W: Having grown up on the west coast I have always been fascinated with the westward expansion of America during the 1800s. This museum definitely tells that story. The museum exhibits are laid out perfectly and informative. Learned about the other trails (Santa Fe trail) and what it was like for the travelers through their journals/letters on that are on display. I was actually surprised to hear that over 90 percent of the travelers made it.Highly recommend this museum to anyone who loves America history!

Kim Lang: An awesome museum showing the history of pioneers who wanted to move west to settle in our western US.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Kim H: Great museum and staff with a lot of information and displaysVisited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

K Neary: Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $11–15More

Chris Chubick: Very fun and interesting

anna aldridge: nice place to see the past

C Sabin: Very interesting place and friendly lady greeting you at the door.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $1–5 …More

Secret Shopper: My second favorite Civil War historical site in Missouri. Place trains. Who doesn't love trains?

Robert Pitman: Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry FreeMore

Gary Sinclair: It was closed.

Preston Kirby: One of the best stops in Indepdence. A great museum and very friendly and helpful workers. The railway station and tour guide was excellent!! Glad I visited!!

Justin S: Wonderful staff, very reasonably priced gift shop, and tons of information on westward expansion!

Jennifer Hart: We were looking to fill time before a concert and Google led us here. I'm glad we stopped by, I learned a lot. If you like to read everything, I recommend allowing at least two hours. My only complaint is the entrance wasn't well marked. The staff was very friendly.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Tom: Fascinating tour with a very knowledgeable lady who took us through the whole building imparting great stories and history of the station and the C&A Railroad! Would highly recommend to train buffs of all ages. The station was moved years ago to it's present location and lovingly restored and loaded with period train and housing items to give the viewers a better appreciation of the times.

Jessica Wallace: Very educational and clean. Highly recommendVisited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Anna Alonzo: Nice museum with historical value. Nice displays and intro video. Nice Lewis and Clark facts of exploration.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No …More

Alan Marvin: Visited on Weekday Wait time No waitMore

Michael Bessler: A must see!!!! Awesome experienceVisited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry Free …More

Mark Smith: Moving experience well worth the trip.

A Crowd of One: The farm was difficult for us to find due to lack of signage. Limited hours of operation. It was interesting to see the house Harry Truman grew up in.

Eileen Deveber: Ranger James McGill was awesome

Kenneth Moeller (The Dane): Great place very interesting place.

Zhuozhao Yang: 历史地标

Linda Merck: Interesting

David Minear: Get your ticket for Truman home. Have wonderful film.

Cher Oliver: Not a lot here. The movie just talked about the connection of Truman and the house. I was hoping for a little more about Truman’s life and presidency to educate my kids. We didn’t do a house tour because of time. It’s free though!

James Gibson: Awesome place to visit. So much history to be seen.

vicki shearer: The tour was a must see! The house is like a time capsule!

Hunter Horne: Park Ranger McGill was outstanding!

Joey Park: Great place

Andi Kahclamat: Very friendly and kind rangers. Small but well stocked gift shop. Stamping station was clean and organized.

Dave Steeves: Part of history everyone should visit.

Nancy Wadsworth: Pretty low key staff. Had a nice walk to Truman Home.

Carol Koehn: Enjoyed our time here! The displays were well designed to make the story of our well-loved Mid-American president impressive. The film also was interesting and informative. Thanks!

C Meyer: This was closed. Very disappointing

Teresa Lackey: Cool place

Dani McPeek: We stopped by for the Strawberry Festival! The vendor selection was amazing and it was a perfect day for an event! We did not tour the mansion, but it is on our list to check out soon! Looking forward to it!Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry Free …More

Kathy Beck: Enjoyed the Strawberry Festival. I wish I had more time to go see all the craft booths. I wish it didn't close at 4. It was starting to get a breeze in the shade lol There was as no cost for festival but $10 adults for tour of mansion. I suggest doing the tour any other day. It was to rushed the day of festival.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Eric Hougland: Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sureMore

Shari m: Really beautiful place that really needs a new sidewalk around the outside of the property. Could really be an extraordinary place for a wedding or tea party.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Michael Young: Beautiful and stunning…must stop and see!Visited on Weekend Wait time Up to 10 min Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Eilleen Hiscock: A wonderful historic Mansion with a super tour guide.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Melissa Ann: Truly a beautiful place to visit

Star Crandall: Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sureMore

Anne Lange: very interesting history, this house is definitely haunted you can just feel itVisited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry Free …More

Brenda Green: I had a friend in town from another country. We visited on Monday (it was closed) but we enjoyed walking the property. We both felt spirit energy in the front of the house and on the parking lot side. This would be beautiful to visit in the fall. There are a double line of maples on the property.Visited on Weekday …More

Michael Dolan: I have always loved Vaille Mansion and the history it represents. This Location has a long and storied history that is well documented. There is constriction going on at the street in front of the property, but that shouldn't get in the way of getting in the parking lot.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry Free …More

Kelli Beth: Well worth a visit! Our tour guide was awesome! He was dressed to the period the mansion was built. He was very knowledgeable.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Niki McElroy: Me and my mom had a great tour a few months ago. What a beautiful well preserved home.Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Anita Cramer: Interesting tour, very unique. Guide was knowledgeable and fun. Each room decorated for the holiday.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Yes Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Athena L. McConnell: I was simply amazed by the beauty of the mansion. The Christmas decorations were charming. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of the mansion from our group's tour guide; Don. The entire visit was a splendid Christmas treat!Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Judy B: Historic Mansion. Just beautiful!!Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Yes Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

aaron reynolds (Big Mac): Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $1–5More

Mike mccarter: Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Yes Price for adult entry FreeMore

Cat Cauley: I would give 100 stars if I could. Thank You to Sandy and the others who gave us such a treat. The mansion is just beautiful art and architecture. I recommend visiting!

Marilyn Lynch: Very informative. Good tour guides. Plan to go back and see Christmas display.

Dorothy Lee: We had a lovely tour guide, very interesting place if you like history

David D: An absolute gem to be able to visit. The staff here is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Make sure and take time to look through the exhibits that change periodically in the museum, and the gift shop.

Derek Maskerade: Went here when I was 8 on a school field trip. Fascinating stuff.

Natalie Sowards: Very cool experience and the people that work there are so nice!

Caleb Blacksnow: Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $1–5More

Timothy Truman: A site full of area history. There is an entry fee. They offer haunted ghost tours in October.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Cat Cauley: Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10More

Kaija Laney: Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10More

John Calkins: Amazing experience definitely go to the ghost tour

Adam Wagner: Friendly greetings, but tour guide was unable to handle/redirect a rude and unruly group.

Nicole Richards: Great place to visit. Really enjoyed reading about the History here at the jail.. the painted mural on the wall is very beautiful! We really enjoyed taking pics of the old antique furniture!Visited on Weekend Wait time 30–60 min Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Tyanne Johnson: So neat to see where Frank James actually stayed, along with other popular inmates of that time period. They had nicely displayed signs so you could read about inmates that were there and get more of a history feel. We did a self guided tour in the jail, but we also chose to do a tour town with the wagon and mules outside the jail. Very nice guy and was very entertaining. Highly recommend paying for the wagon ride city tour.

lynne laney: Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Price for adult entry $6–10More

Rob Hull: Nice museum.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Scott Robertson: I love a creepy historic place

Breanna Lopez: Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $11–15More

Shirl Maldonado: Had fun but was sad didn't find a ghost

April Milam: A great little nugget of local and county history. Worth the small entry fee.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Jim Hink: Good experience.

Rodney Muecke: Right across from the Harry Truman home. Very nice exhibits of Truman's life and presidency. NPS was operating from this location when I visited. They did have all the park passport stamps on the back porch.

Ron Unfried: Any fan of presidential history will enjoy touring the cousin's house of President Truman. Great insight into the man who authorized the use of the bombs that essentially ended WWll

Kurt: Lovely place

Van Wiley Jr: History right in front of you! Awesome experience.

Charles Feiring: Wonderful place to visit . NPS staff very friendly and very knowledgeable.Enjoyed the visit.

Emily Crain: This was our favorite part of the site because we could actually go in and see it. The Noland home is situated right across from Truman's home and it is where his aunt and uncle lived when he was courting his wife. The home is not set up like it was when it was lived in, rather it has displays about Truman and about his time as president. It is very interesting to go through and read all the information. The door is open and anyone can gl in without tickets or anything. It's a really cool place to visit!

Mangazo34: I love history. Nice place to visit.

Chad Bowlin: Lazy

Serenity Mask: They keep this Historic section of town in pristine shape.

NY B: Great educational place. Harim at the admission desk, described the place with enthusiasm and went through information before we even entered. Also, when he said “scavenger hunt” about the artifacts, it made me pay more attention. Thanks to it, I learned whole lot!

Katrina Sims: This place is really cool there is a lot of history here and great place to visitPrice for entry: $12.00

Richard: Incredibly informative and well designed. Accessible for kids or adults. Plan for about two hour visit. Should be a must visit in the Kansas City area. Would go back every time I’m in town.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

renee holt: Excellent exhibits! Interactive, video clips and artifacts from Harry's time in office. Modernized flow, friendly staff! Great afternoon!Visited on Public holiday Wait time Up to 10 min Reservation recommended Yes Price for adult entry $11–15 …More

Brittany Helm: This was a really cool experience! Lots of interactive displays and interesting videos along the way. Great museum!Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $11–15 …More

Raymond Reynolds: Great museum family oriented clean and safe

Aquill Gous: I had a truly phenomenal experience! The museum is very informative and it displays the information in a easy to follow, logical way.The staff that work there are extremely friendly and very educated on the subject matter. I recommend anyone to visit!

MFPhoto1: The museum is a great tribute to one of our greatest Presidents. Many subjects are covered. I highly recommend.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No …More

Surajkuma Entertainment: The sauce is really good I love to stop by and try good BBQ joints. Tried the Sampler meat was dried not to juicy. Sampler was $48 even.Visited on Weekday Wait time 10–30 min Reservation recommended Yes Price for adult entry $11–15 …More

Linda Fortunato: We went on this special day-HST Birthday! Gosh, we enjoyed it so much! So informative of his life leading up to being one of the best Presidents in such a difficult time in history. He loved Missouri & loved this country. May he forever rest in Peace. Loved that he was a native Missourian like me.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry Free …More

R. Burns: It was a great learning experience. Must have been tough to be the president who ordered the drop of "THE" bombs. Then, the recovery efforts afterward. Loved the courtship with Bessie. I could go back and learn even more....Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Shamus Burns: WonderfulVisited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

James Coonrod: The 33rd President Harry S Truman has a wonderful Library honoring him and his hard work that he did during his lifetime and I thank him so much for the big decision that he had to do that ended the war in the Pacific Ocean the library has done a wonderful job since the remodel and update to honor the President and his family a beautiful place with employees and people that are dedicated to the library.

Jean Vogt: Excellent. I highly recommend.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

Caleb Thomas: i honestly love this place, i did not like the part where he died thoughVisited on Weekday Wait time Up to 10 min Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry $1–5 …More

Alexander Heath: Great place to visit. Recent renovations greatly improved this musuem. It is full of so much interesting and exciting content on Harry Truman and related content!Price for adult entry $11–15 …More

Erika Ashley-Atkins Darling: It's a BIG museum! You'll need a whole day or multiple trips to see it all. No drinks allowed; not even water.

Joel Heinrichs: Another one of the Kansas City area's treasures! I would definitely like to go back to spend more time than I was able to on my child's class field trip.Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry $6–10 …More

John Sands: Staff very Knowledgeable about the historic depotVisited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry Free …More

Anna Alonzo: Very nice historical tour.Visited on Weekend Wait time No wait Reservation recommended No Price for adult entry Free …More

D A: Virgil Atchley and Gladys Quinn Atchley lived in this Depot during the twenties and thirties. Gladys played both organ and piano to delight the passengers waiting on the trains. She was a very accomplished musician and enjoyed ragtime and the popular American tunes of that day. Virgil was a brakeman, later an electrician for the railroads. Later Virgil became a city councilman in Independence, Mo. They were my paternal grandparents. My second cousin Lawrence Wiebusch was instrumental in saving this depot starting in the 1980s.

Jade Magee: Very neat and well preserved piece of History. A great museum for history buffs and train lovers alike. 👍 Bring cash for the gift shop.

Bob Nelson: Very well done. It was a great experience.

Larry Smith: Amazing stories and history lessons from staff

Amber Pena: Great little railroad museum right next to the tracks. Lots of little gems to looks at from the old RR days. Place has been restored and has the upstairs living quaters to walk through as well. Super cute and some really cool stuff to look at if you're into railroad memorabilia.

K Thornton: The best train depot I have ever visited. Amazing collection of vintage train stuff, excellent tour guide, fully restored living quarters upstairs.... A true gem!

Bob Herbst: The older gentleman who gave us the tour was outstanding. He was very knowledgeable, answered all our questions with enthusiasm, had many interesting stories, and had a great sense of humor. We visited in Sept. of 2019.

Lou Ann Miller (Dragonheart): Great place for a day trip. Or a school trip. The wagon ride and story telling and singing was great. Friendly staff. They are great at storytelling and answering questions

Randy Bennett: Wasn't open for season

P Princess (皮公主): Little, but real railroad historical piece with cool guides and many informations. Love it!

Jenna Remack: The gentleman who staffs this is very knowledgeable and super friendly. A very interesting place with lots of interesting history

Kevin Mackey: This is a real piece of history. Restored and open to the public

DTRTL Turtle: If your a railroad buff.It is a must stop place.Free admission.Great place for all ages.

Ericka Porter: Very long wait! If you are coming to handle property taxes, they open at 8am but you should arrive by 7:15/7:30am to get in line. You have to wait in the line and get out in queue. I arrived at 8:25am and was in line outside for just over an hour and a half. I ended up being #39 once I made it inside. I then waited for 3 hours for it to be my turn. You can set up to have text notifications when your number is coming up so you can at least sit in your car and wait. Once it was my turn, it took about 20-25 minutes to do what I needed and get done. The bathrooms were also out of order and they had porta potties outside instead.

Norfolk N. Waypal: Ugh. I got there at 7 am to add a vehicle, and I was 6th in line. By the time they opened at 8, there were 50 plus waiting. They are listed on the qless app, but you cant use it. It always says closed. The receptionist likes to interrupt and talk over you to ask exactly what I was trying to say when she interrupted. Once I got through the line it took about 45 minutes. If i had known about the vehicle inspections and complicated taxes, I would never have moved to Missouri.

BrookLynn Bruce: If you plan to see the assessor they tell you to arrive between 8-10am to get your “spot” but I would recommend being out there at 6-7am in the morning maybe 5-530am if you don’t want to be there ALL day long. I went today at 9am, stood in line until 10am before I made it to the lady at the front of the line asking everyone what they were there for. I thought once getting to her I was in & ready to go. I had no idea at that point I would be given a # & had 52 in front of me. I didn’t sit down with the assessor until exactly 415pm. I missed an entire day of work. Towards the end of the day I was able to secure a seat inside to sit. No privacy for anyone coming in to handle their business. It can all be heard out in the open by the man or woman at the desk. I sat & heard many people complain that they are tax payers & can’t even get in to handle their business unless they come early & even then people were turned away after so many people checked in. It’s unbelievable how they are running it. Terrible actually.

Edith Serrano: Muy mala atención una morena no nos quiso dar información de lo que andábamos haciendo y nos saco muy feo del lugar y no permitió que mi esposo le explicará lo que necesitaba.

TREELIE W: Poor management

Thomas Owens: Went to take care of my personal property taxes. Was there at 8:30 A.M.Did not git done until 3:15 P.M.

ScroatBagGarage: The vicarious incompetency actions by the director of the Recorder of Deeds, Diana Smith who knew or should had known that shutting down access to the Recorder of Deeds during the plumbing issue at the Historic Truman Courthouse (week of 03/06 - 03/10 2023) with no reasonable remedy for someone to pick up their marriage license would cause significant financial and stressful consequences. Complete lack of leadership and common sense.,Long story short, I took our daughter and her fiancé who had an appointment to pick up marriage license 03/06 (mon) after completing the online app the week before when we saw the notice on the door: Closed till 03/08 (wed), ok plenty of time, wedding 03/11 (sat). Now closed 03/09 (thr), 03/10 (fri) and no way to reach a human on the phone as they are all enjoying a week off. Wedding had to be postponed, venue had to be changed, food had to be changed, entertainment changed and moved 2 weeks later, tell me that's practical and not expensive!After I called numerous times unsuccessfully able to reach any human or receive any direction, I drove again to the historic courthouse to see if there was any updated notes posted on the door or someone with any updates how to get answers. Nothing, no one, nada, zilch, buzzttt (game show wrong answer buzzer sound). Just another note saying closed the rest of the week.A reasonable person would believe it should had been handled by, a reasonable accommodation; by closing tax side, keeping Recorder of Deeds open, bring in porta-pottys for employees and place outside building. Leave sign saying no restrooms. Allow business to continue at RofD office (they are a low traffic department anyway). Allowing marriage license's to be picked up as scheduled. Have phone numbers that actually go to a human so you can get direction instead of ring/no answer and automated loops.Complete failure by the director of the RofD office, perhaps her position should be re evaluated. Imagine the legal remedies if you could get around the sovereign immunity shield.

Willowcreek scanner: been here for 4 hours and they have only helped 27 people!!!!

jill street: Cool old architecture

Danny Kirkendall: Visited on WeekdayMore

Mario Espinoza: Very nice cervice great job

Omar Correa: Service sucks her place is super super slow people have been waiting for about 4-5 hours.

Pamela Semmler: Visited on Weekday Wait time 30–60 min Reservation recommended Not sure Price for adult entry FreeMore

Adam Patton: Waiting outside in the cold, windy morning for them to open because they have yet to find a way to automate taking care of personal property tax issues is absolutely ridiculous. The woman who helped me was hateful, practically yelled at me, asked inane questions and then got upset at my responses, and overall proved in word and deed how much she hates being a civil servant.

Ricky Pace: Visited on Weekday Wait time 10–30 minMore

Marisa Franks: I hate to give one start ... EXPECT TO BE SET UP FOR FAILURE AND WAIT FOREVER THE PROCESS OF TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IS RIDICULOUS AND THE PEOPLE THAT WORK HERE ACT LIKE YOUR NOT THE PERSON HAVING TO WAIT

Jim Hink: Nice Historical building. Still in operationVisited on Weekday Wait time No wait Price for adult entry Free …More

Ragnar Lothbrook: Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Price for adult entry FreeMore