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Independence, MO Real Estate, Homes For Sale, School & Area Information

Due to its proximity to Kansas City, Independence has all of the amenities of a large metropolitan area while still maintaining a great hometown atmosphere. Although it still has a small-town feel, Independence is the fourth-largest city in the Missouri. Independence is also the county seat of Jackson County, although a small portion of the city also falls within Clay County.

Like many cities in the Kansas City metro are, Independence is rich in historical significance. Independence was founded on March 29, 1827, and quickly became a vital frontier town. Known as the "Queen City of the Trails," Independence was an important stop on the California, Oregon and Santa Fe Trails. Independence is also the hometown of President Harry S. Truman and where he began his political career.

There are several historical landmarks in Independence, including the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site, the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library, and the National Frontier Trails Center. There are also many modern day amenities and attractions including the Adventure Oasis Water Park, the new Independence Event Center, nearby Arrowhead Stadium, and over 21,000 acres of outdoor fun made possible by Jackson County Parks and Recreation. If you still have time on your hands with all of these amazing activities, spend some time shopping at either the brand-name stores at Independence Mall or at the myriad of local shops that line Independence Square.

Top 10 Family Restaurants in Independence Whether you are a KC resident or a tourist, you have to try our BBQ. You'll find that two of the

Independence Area Insight

  • Sadie Redmond
    REMAX Elite Realtors
    Whether you are a KC resident or a tourist, you have to try our BBQ. You'll find that two of the Top 10 rated restaurants in Independence are BBQ! Here is the list if you would like to check them out.

    1. A Little BBQ Joint
    2. Ophelia's Restaurant & Inn
    3. Corner Cafe (Holy moly their Cinnamon Rolls are the best!)
    4. Cafe Verona
    5. Smokehouse Barbecue
    6. V's Italiano Ristorante
    7. Clinton's Soda Fountain/.
    8. First Watch
    9. Court House Exchange
    10. Salvatore's Restaurant

    My personal favorite is Kobe's Steakhouse. They cook right in front of you. They have the best chicken noodle soup appetizer and teriyaki chicken.
  • Carrie Brigham
    REMAX Heritage
    This part of Independence has that established neighborhood feel. Mature trees, older homes with character, and streets where people have lived for years. It’s not brand-new construction, and that’s exactly the appeal for many buyers. You get solid homes, reasonable lot sizes, and pricing that still feels attainable compared to much of the metro.

    You’re just minutes from everyday essentials, grocery stores, restaurants, and quick highway access if you commute into Kansas City. It’s close enough to enjoy the charm of the Independence Square, local parks, and community events without being right in the middle of the traffic.

    Overall, this pocket of Independence is a solid option for buyers who want value, convenience, and an established neighborhood feel without stretching their budget.
  • Genia Birchfield
    REMAX Elite Realtors
    Located just blocks from the historic Independence Square, the First Baptist Church of Independence stands as a cornerstone of Missouri history and a vital piece of the Harry S. Truman legacy. While many visitors flock to the Truman Home or the Presidential Library, this church offers a more intimate look at the community that shaped a president.

    The congregation was officially organized in 1845 by Elder Lewis Franklin, just as Independence was booming as the "jumping-off point" for the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. While the original mid-19th-century structure served the early pioneers, the current majestic building—a beautiful example of Late Victorian architecture—was constructed in 1895 upon the foundations of a previous 1889 sanctuary that had been lost to fire.

    The Truman Connection:
    Though Harry S. Truman was baptized in Kansas City and maintained a lifelong membership at the First Baptist Church in Grandview, he was a frequent presence at the First Baptist Church in Independence. Truman often described himself as a "lightfoot Baptist." While he and Bess were married at the nearby Trinity Episcopal Church (Bess's family church), Harry would often attend services here in his later years.

    Community Roots: After his presidency, Truman famously refused to be treated like a "showpiece." He would often walk the streets of Independence on his morning constitutionals, passing this very church, which sits only two blocks from his home on North Delaware Street.
    Presidential Presence, Inside the sanctuary, you can still feel the weight of history in the pews where the 33rd President occasionally sat among his neighbors, seeking a quiet moment of reflection away from the global spotlight.

    Why It’s a "Must-See" in Independence:
    1. Stained Glass & Serenity: The 1895 sanctuary is renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows and a historic pipe organ added in 1908. The interior remains a remarkably preserved time capsule of the late 19th-century American frontier.
    2. The "Truman Trail": The church is a key stop on the walking tour of Truman’s Independence. Seeing the church helps visitors understand the social and spiritual fabric of the town that Truman famously said was the place "where I belong."
    3. National Historic Register: As a building on the National Register of Historic Places, it represents the architectural transition of Independence from a rough-and-tumble trailhead to a sophisticated, established city.

    Visiting the First Baptist Church provides a sense of the ordinary side of an extraordinary man. It reminds us that behind the world-altering decisions made in the Oval Office was a man who valued the simple, sturdy traditions of his Missouri home.
  • Kristina Jo Stricklin
    REMAX Heritage
    Ask Kristina Jo a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant in Independence is hands down my go-to spot for authentic Italian food and unforgettable experiences. The ambiance is warm and inviting, the service is always attentive and welcoming, and the food is absolutely incredible. The flavors are rich, authentic, and made with care. A must-do is requesting their Italian butter to go with the bread. Trust me, it takes it to a whole new level. I can’t say enough about how consistently amazing the food and service are every single time.

    This is where I go to celebrate just about everything in my life, and anytime I am craving a true Italian meal. I always order the Gambretti Angelina without the breading on the shrimp, and it never disappoints. Their lasagna is also phenomenal. Cheesy, rich, and flavorful, very similar to how I make mine at home.

    If you are looking for authentic Italian cuisine, incredible service, and a place that feels special every visit, Salvatore’s is it.
  • Briana Colón
    REMAX Heritage
    One of my favorite parts of working in Independence is spending time around the Square. There is great food, local shops, and so much historic charm. If you’re looking for a neighborhood with character and community, this area is a must-see!
  • Kelli Pool
    REMAX Heritage
    Chipotle Mexican Grill on 291 Highway is a fantastic addition to our area, and the staff here make each visit a pleasure. We waited a while to try it after it first opened, but now we’ve been there twice in less than a month. The experience is quick, easy, and consistently clean. Both times we dined inside, the lines moved faster than at any other Chipotle we’ve visited, which is a huge plus. The staff are friendly and generous with their servings, and the portions are great. We’ve always found a clean, comfortable place to sit, and the beverage area is consistently tidy. The food is fresh, hot, and delicious every time. This location has definitely earned a spot on our regular rotation, and we will be back often.
  • Kelli Pool
    REMAX Heritage
    I’ve been shopping at Cargo Largo in Independence, MO, since the days of RSO, and it’s impressive to see all the improvements over the years. The new location with a lighted parking lot is a huge plus, making visits safer and more convenient. The store is generally well organized, though the clothing department remains a bit of a challenge to navigate. One of the most frustrating aspects of any visit is accessing WiFi through their connection, which can be inconsistent. Pricing tends to be on the higher side for this type of store (damaged packaging), usually aligning with modest retail sale prices, so I typically reserve purchases for truly unique finds. It would be great if they offered a price check device or app, as the tags are not always accurate. Overall, a solid shopping experience with room for a few improvements.
  • Kristina Jo Stricklin
    REMAX Heritage
    Jerusalem Café is a true Mediterranean gem. The food is fresh, flavorful, and authentic. The service was great, friendly, and welcoming, and they went above and beyond to cater to my requests. I ordered the pita bread with hummus and asked for some fresh veggies, which they happily accommodated. I also had a Greek gyro that was warm and full of flavor. I cannot wait to go back and try more of their delicious Greek dishes.
  • Step back in time for a fun and fascinating experience at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum. Thanks to a huge recent renovation, the museum offers engaging and interactive exhibits that walk you through the life and presidency of Independence's most famous resident. Beyond just looking at documents, you'll feel immersed in history, with exhibits covering everything from his early days working at a local drugstore to his major decisions as the 33rd President. It's a surprisingly captivating experience for all ages, and an insightful way to connect with a pivotal piece of American history right in Truman's hometown.
  • Julie Maupin
    REMAX Heritage
    Golf is one of those sports that you can do at any age, all year long. My daughter plays on her high school golf team, and Winterstone is their home course. Any chance I get, I will go wait for her to get out of practice and enjoy the serene views and the quietness that only a golf course offers. It's a public course that is challenging, gorgeous, has lots of water hazards, and has the friendliest staff in both the clubhouse and pro-shop. If you have not had the chance to visit or play a round of golf at Winterstone, put it on your bucket list today! Be sure to make a tee time because I am not the only one who loves it there!

    Phone: (816) 257-5755
    Website: [email protected]
    Address: 17101 E Kentucky Rd
    Independence, MO, 64058
  • Briana Colón
    REMAX Heritage
    Independence is becoming a hub for future-focused infrastructure with the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor. A $5.6 million RAISE-funded project that will span 24 miles, connecting Independence, Sugar Creek, KCMO, and KCK. It includes planned electric bus routes and enhanced bike and pedestrian pathways. This is a game-changer for local accessibility, eco-friendly commuting, and business development along connected neighborhoods.
  • Briana Colón
    REMAX Heritage
    Ask Briana a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    Greg's Tire Center on Noland Rd. in Independence, MO, is well-known for tire sales and auto repairs but also offers lesser-known services like JASPER re-manufactured engines and transmissions, eco-friendly Green Star-certified services, drivetrain repairs, steering/suspension diagnostics, and vehicle reprogramming. Their ASE-certified technicians provide comprehensive vehicle care, making them a trusted choice for more than just tires.
  • Briana Colón
    REMAX Heritage
    The Independence, MO real estate market is experiencing steady growth. The average home value has risen to $193,605, marking a 2.3% increase over the past year. Homes typically go pending in about 20 days, indicating a brisk market pace. The median sale price stands at $201,067, with a sale-to-list price ratio of 0.999, suggesting that homes are generally selling close to their asking prices. While the market is somewhat competitive, with homes receiving an average of one offer and selling in approximately 38 days, the combination of affordable pricing and a strong rental demand continues to attract first-time buyers and investors to the area.
  • Shane Stevens
    REMAX Heritage
    Ask Shane a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    In the month of January there were 104 homes to close ranging in price from $30,000 all the way up to $1,560,000! Independence continues to be a gem! The Independence Square was featured in a Hallmark movie recently! "A Holiday Touchdown" highlighted the charm of the Independence Square! Pretty cool to see this city highlighted nationally in a movie!
  • With 70 years of entertaining, Cool Crest in Independence is a premier family entertainment facility. Perfect for birthday parties, group events, or a night out with family and friends, Cool Crest is sure to please! Their facility boasts four full 18 hole miniature golf courses, a 7000 square foot video game arcade, a full pizzeria and restaurant, go-karts, batting cages, and now, a full-time event staff ready to make your special event at Cool Crest a truly wonderful experience!
  • Ask a Local Expert a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    For authentic Kansas City-style barbecue, look no further than Adam's Smokehouse. Located at 2543 S State Rte 291 its just a short drive from Blue Springs, this beloved barbecue joint is renowned for its slow-smoked meats and mouthwatering sides. Whether you're craving tender brisket, juicy ribs, or savory pulled pork, Adam's Smokehouse delivers barbecue perfection with every bite. Pair your meal with classic sides like baked beans and creamy coleslaw for the ultimate barbecue feast!
  • Ask a Local Expert a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    Main Event Entertainment in Independence, MO, is a premier destination for family fun and group events. Located at 4600 S Cochise Ct, this expansive center offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages. Whether you enjoy bowling, laser tag, arcade games or pool, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can enjoy a diverse menu featuring handcrafted food options and a full-service bar, making it a suitable destination for both dining and entertainment. What a great place for quality family time or for occasions such as birthday or office parties! Check it out today or sometime soon.
  • Kristina Jo Stricklin
    REMAX Heritage
    If you're looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, look no further than Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant. Nestled at 12801 E US Highway 40, Independence, MO 64055, this family-owned gem delivers on every front. The food is simply outstanding, with each dish bursting with rich, authentic flavors that transport you straight to Italy. From the appetizers to the desserts, every bite reflects the Lupoli family's dedication to quality and tradition. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a touch of old-world charm that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're dining in one of their elegant private rooms, enjoying a drink at the full bar, or soaking up the sunshine on their quaint outdoor patio during the summer months, Salvatore’s has the perfect setting for any occasion.

    And let’s not forget the service - it’s truly spectacular. The staff is attentive, friendly, and committed to ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience. Salvatore’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where you can feel the passion and tradition of Italian hospitality. I absolutely love this place and highly recommend it to anyone craving delicious Italian food and a fantastic dining experience.
  • Santa's Wonderland is up and running again this year at the Bass Pro Shop in Independence, MO. Parents can bring the kids out to celebrate the magic of Christmas. Santa's Wonderland will feature games, toy stations and crafts creating the perfect holiday outing for the whole family. Plus, don't forget free pictures with the big man himself. Enjoy a seamless experience with a free online reservation. Santa will be at available until December 24th. The Bass Pro Shop is located at 18001 Bass Pro Drive in Independence.
  • Ask a Local Expert a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    I had Lutfis Fried Fish for the first time and I have to say it was absolutely delicious. I ended up getting the eight piece fish combo with two sides of potato salad and fried okra. They have several different varieties of combos and different sides. This is a must place to stop if you are in the mood for some fried fish.
  • Kaley West
    REMAX Revolution
    Bass Pro Shops is a must-visit this time of year! It’s the perfect place to start shopping and making your Christmas lists, with something for the entire family to enjoy. Their holiday setup is magical, featuring beautiful Christmas trees and a Santa’s Workshop that the kids will love. On top of that, the amazing animal displays and ponds make every visit feel like an adventure. Whether you're shopping for gifts or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, Bass Pro Shops never disappoints!
  • Kaley West
    REMAX Revolution
    Ask Kaley a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    The service at this restaurant was outstanding, our waiter truly went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of, which was much appreciated. However, the food was just okay. It’s not your typical Mexican fare, and there was an overwhelming amount of cheese used in the dishes. The cheese dip wasn’t the authentic kind I was expecting, which was a bit disappointing. Overall, I’d recommend it more for the excellent service than the food itself.
  • Ask a Local Expert a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    The Black Bear Diner in Independence, MO is a great place to enjoy some American comfort food. Known for its hearty breakfast options and diner classics, Black Bear Diner is a popular choice for a relaxed meal. Their portions are generous and the menu includes everything from pancakes and waffles to burgers and fried chicken.
  • The Enchanted Forest at George Owens Nature Park in Independence, MO, is a beloved annual event that transports visitors into a world of magic and wonder. Each fall, the park’s already scenic landscape transforms into a captivating fairytale setting, where nature and fantasy intertwine. Families and children are invited to explore the illuminated trails winding through the woods, encountering scenes from classic fairy tales brought to life by creative, glowing displays and costumed characters. The event features a range of interactive activities, from storytelling and scavenger hunts to hands-on crafts, offering something for all ages to enjoy.

    The gentle glow of lanterns and twinkling lights guide visitors through the forest, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll. Along the way, guests might meet fairies, woodland creatures, and other magical beings, enhancing the feeling of being in another world. The park’s natural beauty, combined with the creative displays, makes for a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the imagination of both children and adults. In addition to the fairy tale-inspired fun, the Enchanted Forest encourages families to connect with nature, as the park’s trails and activities promote outdoor exploration in a safe, family-friendly environment. The event is not only a festive way to celebrate the fall season, but also a unique opportunity to create lasting memories in one of Independence’s most cherished natural spaces. Whether it’s the thrill of meeting a favorite character or the simple joy of walking through a beautifully lit forest, the Enchanted Forest offers a magical evening that brings the community together. You don't wanna miss out on the fun this FALL SEASON!
  • Ask a Local Expert a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    Situated on the historic Independence Square, Ophelia’s is a beloved local institution. This elegant eatery offers a blend of traditional and contemporary American cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the service is top-notch. The crab cakes and the bison meatloaf are highly recommended. If you’re looking to stay overnight, the inn above the restaurant offers beautifully decorated rooms.
  • Ask a Local Expert a question about Independence.
    Independence, MO
    Parents be sure and bring the little ones out to George Owens Nature Park on Tuesday, August 27th, at 9am for some "Fun at the Park". The Independence Park/Recreation/Tourism staff will share a wide variety of games and equipment for families and kids of all ages. Experience fun, unique and engaging outdoor activities designed to increase activity and connections with friends and neighbors. George Owens Nature Park is located at 1601 Speck Road in Independence, MO.

Independence, MO

Top 10 Family Restaurants in Independence

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Nearby Real Estate Offices

    REMAX Premier Properties

    17000 E US Highway 40 Ste 1
    Independence, MO 64055

    REMAX Innovations

    3200 NE 83rd St.
    Kansas City, MO 64119

    REMAX LEGACY

    4635 Wyandotte Street
    Kansas City, MO 64112

    REMAX Heritage

    1900 NW S Outer Road
    Blue Springs, MO 64015

    REMAX Revolution

    2 Victory Dr
    Liberty, MO 64068

    REMAX Elite Realtors

    1201 NE Windsor Drive
    Lees Summit, MO 64086