Day Trips
Available April 1 - October 31
Stop 1 - Bingham-Waggoner Estate
313 W. Pacific
Independence, MO 64050
Allow 1 hour
816-461-3491 www.bwestate.org
Built in 1852 along the 1846 alignment of the Santa Fe Trail, this magnificent home was once owned by George C. Bingham, famed Civil War artist. In the 1890s the Waggoner's purchased the home and 95% of the furnishings are original to the home. Visit the unique Carriage House Gift Shop.
Stop 2 - National Frontier Trails Museum
318 W. Pacific
Independence, MO 64050
Allow 1 hour
816-325-7575
www.frontiertrailsmuseum.org
During America's expansion in the 1800s three great routes led the pioneers west, the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. All three began in or near Independence - known as the "Queen City of the Trails." Experience the history of the trails and the personal trials and adventures of the pioneers, who opened the West, through the Musesum's exhibits (includes two covered wagons) and award-wiining film.
Stop 3 - Chicago & Alton Depot on Trails Museum Campus
318 W. Pacific
Independence, MO 64050
Allow 30 minutes
Cost: Donations accepted
816-325-7955 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mon, Thur. - Sat.
The depot is filled with railroad artifacts and memorabilia that was used during the 1800s in this working two story railroad depot. The second floor is furnished as the depot agent's residence with period furniture.
Stop 4 - Truman Depot
1111 W. Pacific
Independence, MO 64050
Turn right (or West) once you leave the Trails Museum and drive by the final stop in Truman's 1948 Whistlestop Campaign. Today, the depot is an Amtrak stop and home to the Jackson County Genealogical Society Research Library.
Stop 5 - Lunch & Shopping on the Historic Independence Square
Main & Lexington
Independence, MO 64050
Allow 2 hours
Enjoy lunch on the Historic Independence Square which once served as the rallying point for wagon trains heading west and many of Harry's favorite haunts. Families can enjoy a sandwich or full-course meal at one of the several eateries on the Square. Any remaining time can be spent in one of the antique or specialty shops.
Stop 6 - Pioneer Trails Adventures
Take a covered wagon tour with Pioneer Trails Adventures and the Wrangler as he spins tales of the past (call for a reservation 816-456-4991).
Stop 7 - 1859 Jail, Marshal's Home & Museum
217 N. Main
Independence, MO 64050
Allow 45 minutes
816-461-1897 www.jchs.org
Massive walls, barred windows that once housed Frank James give an authentic look at frontier justice and mid-1800s home life. Four feet away is federalist style house that was home for county marshal until 1920s.