Independence Square

112 W. Lexington St., Independence
816/461-0065
www.theindependencesquare.com [1]

Travel to Harry S. Truman’s hometown, Independence, and spend a day on the Square, a historic district home to boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Civil War enthusiasts must stop in the Blue & Grey Book Shoppe (www.blueandgrey.com [2]), a local bookstore dedicated to Civil War and local and U.S. history.

Browse the plush colorful yarns at Knitcraft Yarn Shop, or visit the Uptown Boutique, a boutique owned by a mother and daughter that specializes in stylish apparel and accessories.

When you’re in need of refreshment, stop at Clinton’s Soda Fountain (www.clintonssodafountain.com [3]) for an old-fashioned soda phosphate. A young Harry Truman worked behind the counter, making Clinton’s an integral part of Independence history.

Dine at Ophelia’s (www.opheliasind.com [4]), an inviting restaurant that specializes in modern American cuisine. Stay for live jazz on the weekends, and if you’d prefer to stay on the Square, book a room at The Inn at Ophelia’s. The Square’s picturesque surroundings make it an ideal setting for year-round events, including ghost tours, a Halloween parade and trick-or-treating, and the holiday-themed Winterfest.