Harry S. Truman always remembered where he came from and the many years spent in Independence. The Truman home has scheduled tours and has undergone a massive restoration. This restoration includes a long-term wallpaper conservation project that is on-going and shows the original wallpapers in the Truman home. Rangers help to oversee the park and conduct information tours. Children ages 5 to 12 can complete activities to become Junior Rangers through the Truman Historic Park.
Harry S Truman NHS (Visitor Center)
223 N. Main St.
Independence, MO 64050
816-254-9929
nps.gov
The Jackson County Historical Society maintains the site of the Marshal's home and the jail that were begun in 1959. These buildings have the distinction of being the earliest examples of work by architect A. B. Cross of Kansas City. The jail has a long and tumultuous history; its most famous inmate being the outlaw Jesse James' brother Frank, who spent six months locked up in Independence. Self-guided tours through the decorated house of the marshal and his family; the jail and chain gang buildings are available. Guided tours can be arranged with advance notice.
Jackson County Historical Society
1859 Jail, Marshal's Home & Museum
217 North Main St.
Independence, Missouri
816-252-1892
jchs.org
Cool Crest activities are fun for the whole family. The four complete 18-hole courses for miniature golf boast cool hazards and gardens. Golfers can shoot to win a free game. The video game arcade gives players over 7,000 square feet of games and fun. If kids bring in recent report cards, they can win tokens based on grades. New varied pitch batting cages and open wheel go-karts add to the many activities at Cool Crest Family Fun Center. Frankie's Pizzeria feeds visitors and events guests from a menu offering pizza, hot dogs, nachos, ice cream and more. Cool Crest is full of great things to do and open for events and parties.
Cool Crest Fun Park
10735 E. US Highway 40
Independence, MO 64055
816-358-0088
coolcrest.com
The Puppetry Arts Institute, begun in 2001, is led by puppeteer Diane Houk and run by local puppeteers. The Institute's mission is one of preserving the art and theater of puppetry. Wheelchair accessible, the large building encompasses the Hazelle Rollins Puppet Museum, a puppet production company started by Rollins in 1932. A performance and workshop area are included; research library and offices. The Institute provides hands-on puppet painting for kids, after which the children can dress their puppets and create performances with them. Monthly puppet show schedules and workshops are held for all ages. (See References 4)
Puppetry Arts Institute
11025 E. Winner Rd.
Independence, MO 64052
816-833-9777
hazelle.org
