In the courthouse, there is a small visitor center and a fairly small office for the county historical society. If you just wander in, they may not seem exciting. But if you ask a question, and especially if you are interested in the area, I found that staff in both places very friendly and knowledgeable.
We went to Independence Square based on a recommendation of a staff member at our hotel. I love wandering around older, historic town squares. It's fun to go in the shops and take a step back in time. But, Independence Square was lacking in quaint shops and very spread out. I didn't need go to an Edward Jones office or a junk shop so we left quickly.
I love the Independence Square. It's a great place to shop for unusual gifts or browse through an antique mall. The newly finished Courthouse is an historic site, and across the street is the famous Courthouse Grill where the bar food is great. Ophelia's and Cafe Verona are two great restaurants, and for the best German beer outside of Germany, Rhineland offers a wide selection of imported German beers as well as German food and music. Clinton's is the famous ice cream shop with sundaes, malts, and floats served the old way, and a stroll around the square is a nice little evening walk. Seasonally, special events such as the Santa Calagon Days and the Holiday Lighting Ceremony provide fun for the family. A great way to spend a day.
This is such a slice of Americana. You can see where Truman walked around, be sure and check out his home. Don't be put off by the town of Independence off the interstate before you get to the square and Presidential Library (we were at first)-- it's well worth the visit to all that these have to offer!
The shops were very nice and shopkeepers were all very friendly. Prices of antiques were pretty consistent, not over-priced. We enjoyed the local flavor.
This is a diamond in the rough. Such quaint little stores and more are being developed. It's a very nice location and the stores were diversified with quality merchandise. A great experience.
Stop in "CourtHouse Exchange" The food, atmosphere and service is "AWESOME" They now have a added attraction every 1st and 3rd Saturdays they offer "Kareoke" the host is very nice and friendly he makes you comfortable as do the Waitress :) I promise you will enjoy yourself. Hope you get a chance to come by :)
I love shopping at the Independence Square! There are tons of cute and unique shops on the Square. Great places to eat too!
My sons play hockey for the JR Mavericks Elite TIER I Midget hockey teams out of the Independence Events Center. Great hockey venue. Excellent organization playing in the Nation's number one Midget Hockey League. Great coaching staff. The arena would benefit from more upgraded team locker facilities.
I have loved shopping at the square for many, many years. There are so many small individual stores and I have found many neat items to purchase there. Always try to make at least one trip before the Christmas Holidays. Come try it, I think you will be pleased.