DAY 1: A DAY ON THE SQUARE
2 DAYS
IND EPEN D EN CE
WINTER WONDERLAND FESTIVITIES
ITI NE R AR I E S
2 Historic Independence Square
DAY 1
A Day on the Square ’Tis the season to get ready for holiday cheer in Independence, Missouri, as this getaway destination will make your winter experience unforgettable. The Historic Independence Square is overflowing with adventures including wagon rides, festive traditions, and sweet treats. 1) The first step on your Christmas escape is to check into a cozy bed & breakfast. Silver Heart Inn & Cottages features four well-appointed rooms and two secluded cottages that bring the bygone and today’s luxuries together. Another charming option is Woodstock Inn Bed & Breakfast, a romantic Victorian mansion with European-themed rooms that offer a serene setting to curl up in front of the fire. 2) Start your day on the Historic Independence Square, and take a journey back in time on a
carriage ride with Pioneer Trails Adventures. From the comfort of a mule-drawn sleigh— complete with a knowledgeable tour guide, an appearance by Santa, and blankets to keep you warm—you will be immersed in the city’s rich history and discover what makes it unique. Other tour options describe the history of former President Harry S. Truman, Civil War battle sites, and the reportedly haunted 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home & Museum. 3) After an expedition like that, your growling stomach may influence your next stop. With fresh ingredients and homemade sauce, Square Pizza makes everything to order to ensure complete taste bud satisfaction. You can stick with the classics, make your own, or try one of their signature selections like the Square House, Mexican Taco, or Big Island. 4) If you happen to be in Independence on the second Friday in November, then make sure to attend the town’s annual Square Lighting. Sparkling lights stretch for more than a mile,
bringing the Square to life. Winter activities include holiday crafts, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, choir performances, fire dancers, and more. 5) Next, if you start getting cold, stop by Main Street Coffee House for decadent hot chocolate to keep you warm through the evening. Sometimes just hot chocolate doesn’t cut it, and this coffee house has you covered with brownies, apple turnovers, and quiche. They also serve flavorful drinks like peppermint mochas, pumpkin spice lattes, and matcha. Don’t forget to purchase a souvenir mug to always remember your time in Independence. 6) You’re in luck if your vacation lines up with the first weekend of December, when Living Windows illuminates the storefronts on the Square for one night only. With the vibrant Christmas lights as a backdrop, the windows of local businesses feature musicians and scenes from beloved films to tell the story of the holiday season.
I NDEP ENDEN C E I T I NER A R I E S | WI NTE R WON D E R L A N D FE S TIV ITIE S
DAY 2: SHOPS & TOURS
IN D EP E N D E N CE I T INE R AR IE S | WINTER WO N D E R L AN D FE S TI VITI E S
DAY 2
Shops & Tours
6 Bingham-Waggoner Estate
Complete your winter vacation by finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones at local shops and holiday markets. End the itinerary with some festive guided tours and hearty eats from a longstanding favorite. 1) November marks the unofficial start of holiday shopping. On the second Friday, join Independence for the Holiday Open House, where retail stores showcase the best gift ideas they have to offer. Discover the newest products and home decor to kick off the season with a head start on your gift list. 2) If you are in town during Thanksgiving weekend, make sure to enjoy Shop Small Saturday. Make your way through more than 40 locally owned shops and restaurants in the historic downtown to find irreplaceable gifts for friends and family. 3) After a full morning of shopping, walk in the footsteps of former Independence residents with a visit to the area’s historic homes—the Vaile Mansion, Bingham-Waggoner Estate, and 1859 Jail, Marshal's Home & Museum. During the holiday season, see these storied spots sparkle with elaborate decorations and holiday delight.
3 Vaile Mansion
4) If you are ringing in December in Independence, then stroll through the Holly & Mistletoe Home Tours presented by the Independence Young Matrons. The sights and sounds of Christmas fill four beautiful homes from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the first Thursday of December. Local Independence merchants sell tickets in advance for $12, or you can purchase tickets at the door for $15. All proceeds benefit residents of eastern Jackson County. 5) Next, stop by the annual Uptown Holiday Mart on the first Saturday of December. Embrace the spirit of the season with craft vendors and a holiday DIY station. The free event also features handmade gifts, food, drinks, and endless excitement. 6) To keep the merry weekend going, experience the Bingham-Waggoner Estate Twilight Tour on the first Sunday of December. Explore the 19.5-acre grounds at your leisure, enjoy light refreshments, and listen to live music. The special evening is from 4 to 7 p.m., and admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children younger than 16. Relish in a night of family, friends, and beautiful decorations. 7) End the day with some comfort food at Dixon’s Chili Parlor. After 100 years of service, this local joint is well-known for its fast and friendly service. The oldest family-owned restaurant in Independence, Dixon’s serves more than just chili. Satisfy your appetite with burgers, hot dogs, or a customizable bowl of the good stuff.
3 Vaile Mansion
VISIT INDEPENDENCE
210 W. Truman Rd. Independence, MO 64050 (816) 325-6279, (800) 748-7323 VisitIndependence.com