Today a part of the Kansas City metropolitan area stretched along the south bank of the Missouri River, Independence was once an important frontier town, a starting point for many adventurers heading to California or Oregon. Follow the path of the California, Santa Fe, and Oregon Trails along the tracks carved by real wagon trains, go for a mule-drawn wagon ride, or take a tour of historic Independence Square and the jail, where famous outlaw Frank James spent some time. Stop by the Mormon Visitors Center to learn about the importance of this faith in Independence. Visit the Englewood Station Arts District, filled with art galleries, small shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site in Independence.

St Louis Branson Columbia Kansas City Springfield Carthage Elephant Rocks State Park Grant's Farm Ha Ha Tonka State Park Hannibal Hermann Independence Jefferson City Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Joplin, Missouri Lake of the Ozarks Lee's Summit Meramec Caverns Ste. Genevieve Rolla Saint Charles Saint Joseph Table Rock Lake for Couples Talking Rocks Cavern Roaring River State Park

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