Independence, Missouri Weekend with Kids

Step back in time to Missouri as it was. Best known as the home of President Harry S. Truman and his wife Bess, the sites here make it easy for parents to educate their kids about a pivotal time in U.S. history without being boring.

1
Drury Inn and Suites Kansas City Stadium
Independence is just a little east of Kansas City so I'm going to stay at this hotel that's halfway between here and downtown Kansas City. Kids love the free popcorn and sodas, parents love the two room suites, free cocktails, free long distance, and free high speed internet. Around $100 per night.
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Harry S. Truman National Historic Site
OK, the kids have had their fun...now let's see if we can get them a history lesson. Right at the entrance to the old downtown is the visitor's center. Start here and check with the rangers for directions to the area's sites. Many are with walking distance and there's a large parking lot across the street. Free.
Start here and check with the rangers for directions to the area's sites.
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Clinton's Soda Fountain
Let the kids know this lesson won't be painful. At the other end of the block from the Truman Visitor's Center is this ice cream parlor. It's claim to fame? Many years ago, a young man named Harry S. Truman got his first job here. Not at the original site, but still a worthwhile stop. Less than $5 for some delicious ice cream serv... More >
Let the kids know this lesson won't be painful. At the other end of the block from the Truman Visitor's Center is this ice cream parlor. It's claim to fame? Many years ago, a young man named Harry S. Truman got his first job here. Not at the original site, but still a worthwhile stop. Less than $5 for some delicious ice cream served by a friendly staff.
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Truman Home
About three blocks away, in quite an unassuming neighborhood, the house that Harry and Bess Truman lived in is now open again afte undergoing a renovation. Be sure to look for the umbrella stand near the door. $4, kids under 15 free.
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Harry S. Truman Library & Museum
Now we go full bore, but don't worry, the kids will be fine. Start off with a short movie about President Truman, see some very interesting exhibits about Korea, recognizing Israel, firing General MacAurthur, the Presiden't grave, the office he came to every day after retiring, and...finally...a recreation of his oval office with the ... More >
Now we go full bore, but don't worry, the kids will be fine. Start off with a short movie about President Truman, see some very interesting exhibits about Korea, recognizing Israel, firing General MacAurthur, the Presiden't grave, the office he came to every day after retiring, and...finally...a recreation of his oval office with the iconic "buck stops here" plaque in front. Adults $8, kids $3.
Be sure to look for the umbrella stand near the door.
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About the Author

Darryl Musick
Darryl Musick
I produce a travel blog with my son, Tim, who uses a wheelchair. You can see our adventures at http://wheelstraveler.blogspot.com and you can send us a message at dmusick61-at-gmail.com
Websitefacebook.com/darryl.musick
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