2023 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
INDEPENDENCE QUARTERLY ISSUE
STEP INTO HISTORY AGAIN
MAGICAL MEMORIES OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON
Step back in time as the National Frontier Trails Museum reopens its doors at the Truman Memorial Building.
Independence’s holiday season is here, filled with festive events and cherished traditions. Join us for the magic!
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS The holiday season is here! Mark your calendar for holiday magic in Independence!
TABLE OF
CONTENTS FEATURES 03 STEP INTO HISTORY AGAIN Step back in time as the National Frontier Trails Museum reopens its doors at the Truman Memorial Building.
VISIT INDEPENDENCE 416 W. Maple Ave. Independence, MO 64050 (816) 325-7575 Visitindependence.com
04 BURGER BATTLES Taste the rivalry: Big Boy, Hi-Boy, Mugs-Up, and McDonald’s in Independence strive to win over burger aficionados.
06 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS The holiday season is here! Mark your calendar for holiday magic in Independence!
09 MAGICAL MEMORIES OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON LOCATION SPOTLIGHT Independence’s holiday season is here, filled with festive events and cherished traditions. Join us for the magic!
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
Visit Independence is a division of the Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism at the City of Independence, Missouri. It is dedicated to promoting Independence as a convention and visitor destination.
This publication was created by the City of Independence and paid for by local guest tax proceeds. Learn more about the City of Independence at independencemo.org.
2023. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.
STEP INTO HISTORY AGAIN: NATIONAL FRONTIER TRAILS MUSEUM REOPENS HOURS OF OPERATION ARE: The wait is over! The National Frontier Trails Museum is preparing to open in the Truman Memorial Building located at 416 W. Maple on the lower level. The doors will officially open on Wednesday, November 1, at 10 am. The transition of the National Frontier Trails Museum began with the move to the Truman Memorial Building on July 1, 2023. The move of the NFTM provided an opportunity for a new attraction, the Missouri Model Railroad Museum, to fill the space. Along with a new layout and location, you’ll find a new admission price – free! Now there is no cost to tour the National Frontier Trails Museum, but donations toward the new museum are encouraged. The National Frontier Trails Museum features Independence as the jumping off point for the Lewis & Clark, Santa Fe, California, Oregon, and Mormon Pioneer trails stories. Your adventure begins with an introductory video making your way along the trails of artifacts and exhibits. Don’t forget to round out your trip with a stop in the museum giftshop. We are thrilled to offer our visitors a new experience of the trails’ history in our temporary location,” said Assistant Department Director, Frank Buhro.
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
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Monday: 10 am – 6 pm
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Tuesday: 10 am – 7 pm
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Wednesday: 10 am – 6 pm
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Thursday: 10 am – 7 pm
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Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
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Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
Closed on Sundays. The last tour each day begins one hour before the scheduled closing time, so please plan accordingly. Tours outside of scheduled hours are available by appointment. Make the National Frontier Trails Museum part of your stop when you visit Independence!
A SHORT TIME AGO, IN A CITY NOT SO FAR, FAR AWAY... BURGER BATTLES! The city of Independence is home to a heated debate, with strong opinions on every side about who has the best-tasting burger in town. Burgers from all over Independence have marched into the competition, offering their loyal fans satisfying options with a side of one-of-a-kind vibes that can only be found at these Independence original restaurants. Though every burger fought
valiantly to satisfy the hunger of citizens throughout Independence, four clear favorites have emerged as the most powerfully tasty burger establishments throughout the hungry realm. The loud and boisterously delicious, Big Boy Burgers, is a mighty contender in the battle as one of the most coveted burger joint champions throughout the land. With speed and agility, Big Boy Burgers lives up to its fearsome reputation for cooking burgers at a fast pace, ensuring shorter customer wait times while maintaining the superb quality of hot, fresh, and tasty burgers. Not to mention, their original and savory onion rings make for tenacious sidekicks in a one-two combo against other burger joints. Coming in hot and fresh at number two is Hi-Boy Drive-In, a long-time favorite cherished by the citizens of Independence for over 66 years and counting. This family-owned gem uses pure heart and joy to deliver devastatingly delicious blows to
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
the stomachs of hungry customers. Two of the most recent victims claimed by Hi-Boy’s luscious meals are Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, who both starred in a television commercial taking place at the establishment. Their onion rings, voted best in Kansas City, also make the institution a force to be reckoned with on the burger battlefield. But wait, don’t count out this challenger! Mugs-Up Root Beer lunges into battle as a cherished drive-in restaurant. Serving exquisitely refreshing root beer since 1956, this local favorite crafts burgers with loosely packed ground meat that constructs a unique and delicious strategy in this battle. Not only do the burgers provide an amazing taste, but they also present a nostalgic experience with the retro vibes of carhops who take your order and serve you a powerfully tasty weapon consisting of scrumptious root beer and burgers. Like most battles, there’s a dark horse contender. McDonald’s is a force that can be found all over the country-wide burger battlefield. And while it’s not quite in Independence it is right across the street and you’ll want to experience this historic treasure - McDonald’s with only one arch! This establishment is one of only TWELVE McDonald’s restaurants in the entire country that still contain the original and rare golden arch design by Ray Kroc, the company’s first-ever franchising agent. Eating at the establishment will be like traveling back in time to the 1940s. It’s a tough battle between some of the most cherished favorites in Independence! Day after day, more customers fall victim to the savory, juicy, endearingly greasy, and flavorful burgers that fight their way into customer’s stomachs. But all hungry visitors must choose a side in this battle. Which Independence burger joint has your heart - er tastebuds? Which one will come out on top? It’s time to get out there and get a taste of the battle for yourself!
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
JAIL HAUNTS TOURS FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS IN OCTOBER 1859 JAIL MUSEUM | 7-11:30PM
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS! Your trail to holiday magic begins with a visit to Independence! There has never been a better time to take in the wonder and nostalgia of the holiday season in Independence – We have it packed full of events and activities that are sure to have you feeling the holiday spirit.
Join us for a tour and paranormal investigation at the 1859 Jail Museum! Tour times vary. Learn more at jchs.org.
SPOOKY SKATE OCTOBER 19, 2023 CABLE DAHMER ARENA | 5-8PM
Bring the whole family out for FREE Trick or Treating with our sponsors and sports teams. Craft Vendor Fair, Haunted House walk-through experience, entertainment, costume contest with prizes, and ice skating for only $5. Free skate pass with a food donation for Harvesters. Learn more at cabledahmerarena.com. KANSAS CITY MAVERICKS HOCKEY OCTOBER-FEBRUARY CABLE DAHMER ARENA | TIMES VARY
Join us at the Cable Dahmer Arena for the Mavericks Season! Learn more at kcmavericks.com.
ENCHANTED FOREST Spooky Skate
WINTER FARMERS MARKET FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH DECEMBER-APRIL INDEPENDENCE UPTOWN MARKET | 9AM1PM
The Farmers’ Market is your stop for fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and more from our local farmers, businesses, and crafters!
ROOTED AMONG THE ASHES: HIBAKUJUMOKU/A-BOMBED TREES OCTOBER-DECEMBER HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY AND MUSEUM
Take a walk of remembrance among the trees that survived the atomic bombs in Japan. To learn more, visit trumanlibraryinstitute.org.
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
OCTOBER 20, 21, 27, 28, 2023 GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK | 7-9PM
Take a stroll through non-scary, family-friendly pumpkin-lit trails and witness your favorite characters come to life at our Annual Enchanted Forest! Tickets are $4. Learn more at independencemo.gov. HALLOWEEN PARADE OCTOBER 28, 2023 HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 1011:30AM
Join us for the 75th Annual Halloween Parade on the Historic Independence Square! The parade consists of local businesses, organizations, and community leaders. Halloween Parade
NEEDTOBREATHE NOVEMBER 2, 2023 CABLE DAHMER ARENA | 7PM
GRAMMY nominated multi-platinum band NEEDTOBREATHE are a dynamic force in rock. SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE CONCERT BAND FALL CONCERT NOVEMBER 5, 2023 TRUMAN MEMORIAL BUILDING | 4PM
Square Lighting
Celebrate the Fall season with music! Enjoy the Spirit of Independence Concert Band’s Fall concert.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 9-11, 2023 HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE
Join us on the Historic Independence Square for our Holiday Open House! Visit the more than 45 local shops, restaurants, and bars as you make your holiday plans. Historic Homes Holiday Tours
SHRINE CIRCUS NOVEMBER 16-19, 2023 CABLE DAHMER ARENA | TIMES VARY
Come one come all to the Shrine Circus – KC’s only 3-ring circus!
SQUARE LIGHTING & SANTA’S VILLAGE NOVEMBER 17, 2023 HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 6PM
Join us as we light up the holiday season on the Square! Fox 4’s Matt Stewart will be our Master of Ceremonies. Join us at the Independence Uptown Market after we light the Square for FREE crafts, treats, and photos with Santa! Best Little Arts & Crafts Show
BEST LITTLE ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW NOVEMBER 17-18, 2023 ROGER T. SERMON CENTER | 10AM-7PM
Shop for the holiday season at the Best Little Arts and Craft Show! Find unique, home-made gifts for everyone on your list. SHOP SMALL SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25, 2023 HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE
Support our local businesses by shopping small on Saturday, November 25. Find gifts for everyone on your holiday list. HISTORIC HOMES HOLIDAY TOURS NOVEMBER 24-DECEMBER 30, 2023 VAILE MANSION & BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE | 11AM-4PM
Stop by and visit Bingham-Waggoner Estate and Vaile Mansion decorated for the holiday season!
HOLIDAY TOURS WEEKENDS IN DECEMBER 1859 JAIL & MUSEUM | 11AM-4PM
Stop by and visit the 1859 Jail Museum to see the jailer’s house decorated for the holiday season! LIVING WINDOWS DECEMBER 1, 2023 HISTORIC INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | 6-9PM
Living Windows
Join us for Living Windows on the Historic Independence Square! Take in the magic of the holidays as our shop windows come to life. CHAMPAGNE & CHANDELIERS DECEMBER 2, 2023 VAILE MANSION | 5:30-8:30PM
Come enjoy the beautiful Christmas décor while sipping champagne or sparkling water, appetizers, and a tour. Tickets will be available on Eventbrite closer to event date for $25.00/person or onsite for $30.00/person. COOKIES & COCOA WITH MRS. CLAUS DECEMBER 16, 2023 BINGHAM-WAGGONER ESTATE | 10AM-1PM
Stop by and visit with Mrs. Claus at the BinghamWaggoner estate! She will read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” and children will make a holiday craft. Best for children 3-8 years old. Winter Solstice Torch-Lit Hike
Winter Trails
SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE CONCERT BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT DECEMBER 17, 2023 TRUMAN MEMORIAL BUILDING | 4PM
Enjoy the jolly music of the Spirit of Independence Concert Band at this free holiday performance. 20TH ANNUAL WINTER SOLSTICE TORCH-LIT HIKE DECEMBER 6, 2023 GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK | 5-7PM
Celebrate the Winter Solstice with our Annual TorchLit Hike! See our holiday sweaters decorated by the Community. WINTER TRAILS DECEMBER 6, 2023-JANUARY 31, 2024 GEORGE OWENS NATURE PARK | 8:30AM5PM
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
Walk the Butterfly Trail and see holiday sweaters decorated by the Community!
MAGICAL MEMORIES OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON
LOCATION SPOTLIGHT:
We can hardly believe the holiday season is upon us! Holidays in Independence are more than Jack Frost nipping at your nose while you sip your hot cup of coffee – it's the season for discovering the magic of a winter wonderland, memories that sparkle like holiday lights, and a hometown connection that warms your heart for years to come. 'Tis the season for exploring new destinations and creating memories.
The Englewood Arts District is back and better than ever! Our location highlight shares the story of the Englewood Arts Center and how they’re building community. In 2009, Englewood reinvented itself as a city-approved Arts District. This endorsement has stimulated a revitalization of this once-active retail area. Since its confirmation, ten art businesses have moved into Englewood.
The holiday season begins with the Annual Square Lighting – ushering in the holidays for Independence, all merry and bright. You might feel the need to search the skies, but Santa and Mrs. Claus will have already arrived. Join them for treats and a visit in the Independence Uptown Market. Celebrate the magic of the season with Living Windows – where we bring the wonder of the season to the streets of the Independence Square. As you peer in shop windows, you’ll feel like you are strolling through a holiday movie. Take a walk down memory lane as we celebrate the changing of seasons at our Torch-Lit Hike. Look for decorated sweaters along the beautifully torch-lit trail. You might even catch a glimpse of some of Santa's elves along the way. Make sure you stop by all of our Historic Homes, beautifully decorated in their Victorian splendor. Traditions of yesteryear are brought back to remind you of what's truly important during the holidays. Independence is your trail for finding the joy of giving and receiving in new surroundings, or maybe it's a time to return to your roots and take comfort in the love and nostalgia that fills the air during the winter months. Whether you’re rediscovering the warmth of home, or embarking on a new adventure, we'd love for you to stop in for the festivities! Independence is your destination for Great American Stories and the holiday season.
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Independence Visitor Guide 2023
ENGLEWOOD ARTS DISTRICT
The Englewood Arts Center is the heart of the Arts District. The Arts Center goal is to help the community with access to public art events, programs, and community outreach solutions The renovated Arts Center provides areas for artists to create visual art and includes space for performing arts. The Arts Center also offers culinary opportunities and encourages visitors to engage in hands-on art classes. We look forward to what’s to come and are excited to see the Arts District thrive. We hope you will add the Arts District to your list during your next visit to Independence!
LEARN MORE AT ENGLEWOODARTS.ART
W White Oak Ave
N Main St
N Liberty St
N Osage St
W Maple Ave
E Maple Ave
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2 W Lexington Ave
W Kansas Ave
S Lynn St
S Liberty St
E S Osage St
S Pleasant St
W Kansas Ave
W Walnut St
S Main St
S Spring St
HISTORIC VENUES National Frontier Trails Museum at Truman Memorial Building 2. Historic Independence Square 3. 1859 Jail and Museum
W Short Ave
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Independence OUR QUICK GUIDEVisitor TO Guide LOCAL STOPS 2023
berty St
MAP YOUR TRAIL
E Sh S Lynn St
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W Walnut St
S Osage St
ant St
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W Truman Rd
N Lynn St
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N Spring St
N Pleasant St
W Truman Rd
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