Independence Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Kansas, the city of Independence offers a charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Queen of the Cowtowns," this picturesque destination is perfect for those seeking an authentic American experience.

Begin your journey by exploring the rich history of Independence at the Independence Historical Museum and Art Center. Here, you can immerse yourself in the stories of pioneers and Native Americans who once called this land home. Discover artifacts from the Civil War era and learn about the city's role in shaping the state of Kansas.

For a taste of the Wild West, head to the Chisholm Trail Museum. This living history museum showcases the life of cowboys and the importance of cattle drives in the 19th century. Take a guided tour and witness reenactments of cowboy life, or simply wander through the exhibits and admire the authentic artifacts on display.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the scenic beauty that surrounds Independence. Just a short drive away, Elk City State Park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Hike along the nature trails, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or try your hand at fishing. The park is also home to the Elk City Reservoir, where you can rent a boat and spend a leisurely day on the water.

No visit to Independence is complete without experiencing its vibrant arts and culture scene. The William Inge Center for the Arts pays tribute to the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and celebrates the performing arts through workshops, productions, and festivals. Catch a show at the beautiful Independence Community Theatre and be entertained by local talent.

When it comes to dining, Independence offers a range of options to satisfy every palate. From hearty steaks at the historic Elk's Lodge to mouthwatering barbeque at the local Smokehouse, there is something for everyone. Don't forget to indulge in some Kansas specialties, such as fried chicken and homemade pie, at one of the charming local diners.

Alternative names: Founded: 1869 (155 years ago)Population: 9 thous.Area: 7.62 mi²Elevation: 810 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°13'31"N, 95°42'25"W

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KansasUnited States

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Independence Top Attractions

Independence Attractions - What to See and Explore

Independence offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Independence Public Library, Booth Theater, Union Implement and Hardware Building-Masonic Temple. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Bookshop • Library
Independence Public Library
Independence Public Library is a small public library that has stood in the same location for more than 100 years, in Independence, Kansas.
Concerts and shows • Theater
Booth Theater
The Booth Theater is a historic movie theater located at 119 W. Myrtle St. in Independence, Kansas. The building was constructed in 1911 and renovated for use as a movie theater in 1926–27.
Romanesque architecture
Union Implement and Hardware Building-Masonic Temple
The Union Implement and Hardware Building is a historic building in Independence, Kansas. Constructed in from 1900, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Day trips

Independence – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Independence, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Price Tower (Bartlesville), Bartlesville Kiddie Park (Bartlesville), Woolaroc (Bartlesville).

36 milesSW
Museum, Architecture, Art museum
Price Tower, Bartlesville
The Price Tower is a nineteen-story, 221-foot-high tower at 510 South Dewey Avenue in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. It was built in 1956 to a design by Frank Lloyd Wright. It is the only realized skyscraper by Wright, and is one of only two vertically oriented Wright structures extant.
36 milesSW
36°45'17"N • 95°58'26"W
Bartlesville Kiddie Park, Bartlesville
Amusement, Theme park, Amusement park
46 milesSW
Museum, History museum, Specialty museum
Woolaroc, Bartlesville
Woolaroc is a museum and wildlife preserve located in the Osage Hills of Northeastern Oklahoma on Oklahoma State Highway 123 about 12 mi southwest of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and 45 mi north of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Woolaroc was established in 1925 as the ranch retreat of oilman Frank Phillips.
27 milesW
Specialty museum, History museum, Museum
Emmett Kelly Museum, Sedan
The Emmett Kelly Museum in Sedan, Kansas, nominally honors their native son, the famed circus clown. The museum houses a mix of local memorabilia along with a few Kelly-related items, but its main attraction is the world's largest collection of commemorative Jim Beam bottles, some 1,500, donated by a couple who once took them on tour.
35 milesNE
37°40'60"N • 95°27'8"W
Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum, Chanute
Specialty museum, Museum