This post is in partnership with Visit Independence (learn more here). All opinions and images are my own. #visitindepmo #COIInfluencerWeekend2019
I spent last weekend exploring Independence, a Missouri city about 3 1/2 hours from St. Louis. It’s a city so rich with history and culture that I had to share about the experience. Follow along to spend 36 hours in Independence with me.
36 Hours of Independence
Friday
1. 6:00 p.m. Check in to the Hilton Garden Inn.
Independence offers accommodations to meet every traveler’s needs, from quaint Bed and Breakfast spots to swanky Airbnb homes. I chose to stay in a hotel.
2. 8:30 p.m. Get your brew on at 3 Trails Brewing Company.
Catch a live band, mingle with locals, and find out why this brewing company won national attention for its Westward Wit.
Saturday
3. 10:00 a.m. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Clinton’s Soda Fountain.
This shop oozes with history. The building dates back to the 1800s. I hear that a young Harry Truman worked in the building when it was a pharmacy and also a previous soda shop. Today, visitors stop by for the sundaes. Check out the one my husband enjoyed.
4. 11:0o a.m. Steal a photo op at the #LoveTheSquare mural.
5. 11:15 a.m. Dig into the interesting history of the 1859 Jail and Marshal’s Home Museum.
This museum is the earliest structure still standing on its original site in the Independence Square area.
6. 12:00 p.m. Grab lunch at the homey El Pico Restaurant.
Burritos, fajitas, tacos, whatever you have a taste for, El Pico will satisfy your appetite. As a vegan, I was so appreciative of the staff’s awareness of ingredients and options suitable for my specialized diet.
7. 1:30 p.m. Truman Library
Did you know that Harry Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, was from Independence? And, Independence is home to his presidential library.
8. 3:oo p.m. Soak up the opulence of Vaile Mansion.
Explore this 13-room mansion built in 1881. You will be blown away by the Victorian architecture. Be sure to note the hours because it closes fairly early at 4 p.m.
9. 8:00 p.m. Dinner at Ophelia’s
Enjoy the atmosphere and ecclectic menu at Opehelia’s restaurant.
10. 6:00 a.m. Hit the road again!
Thank you to Visit Independence for having me!
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