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

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), 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) 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), 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.