7 Can’t-Miss Recommendations for Year-Round Family Fun
Plan a memorable family adventure in Independence with these year-round recommendations.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway, an escape timed with a school break or a summer adventure, Independence is filled with family-friendly recreation, exploring and dining. Add these recommendations to your must-see list.
7 Independence Spots Perfect for a Family-Friendly Trip
Kiddos will love the immense layout that includes four (!!) miniature golf courses, while parents will get a kick out of the nostalgic décor and vibe that dates back to Cool Crest Family Fun Center’s opening in 1950. Most of the holes are adorned with obstacles and visual enhancements to make play challenging and fun. Look for an animatronic alligator, replicas of castles and the Eiffel Tower, burbling fountains, graceful statuary and so much more. Keep the entertainment going inside with a wide array of arcade games and stay fueled at the snack bar.
As you pick travel dates, check upcoming events at Cable Dahmer Arena. This live entertainment venue hosts everything from concerts and pro wrestling to stand-up comedy and sports, including the Kansas City Mavericks hockey team and the Kansas City Comets indoor soccer team. A prime location just off of Interstate 70 puts you in the midst of several lodging and dining options, too.
Parents, ready for more nostalgia? Teach your kids the lost art of the old-fashioned soda shop at Clinton’s Soda Fountain. Sure, they’ve had milkshakes, but what about a malted? Or a phosphate? This is a great spot to stop and enjoy a sweet treat as you explore the historic Independence Square. Fun fact: Clinton’s was the site of President Harry S. Truman’s first job!
Keep the nostalgic theme going as you introduce your kids to yet another beloved experience: the drive-up restaurant. Mugs-Up Root Beer has been serving up their signature zip burgers and frosty mugs of their namesake since 1956. Another favorite? The chili dog, which you can also order with dollops of Cheez Whiz. Take home mementos of your meal, including T-shirts, the restaurant’s signature zip burger seasoning or a glass root beer mug.
The best kind of learning is when you don’t even realize it’s happening! Wagonmaster Ralph Goldsmith and his team at Pioneer Trails Adventures host a variety of themed tours that explore Independence history. And because tours are offered by mule-drawn wagon, your family will get a taste of pioneer life and what it might have been like to travel westward on the Oregon, California or Santa Fe trails.
There’s nothing like a ballpark hot dog or a pre-game tailgate — and in Independence, you can do both! The city is home to the Truman Sports Complex, which hosts the Kansas City Royals’ Kauffman Stadium next to the Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium. Don’t forget to pack your team gear.
It always helps to have a couple of indoor options in case of inclement weather. Add Diamond Bowl & Billiards to your list. Located on the Square, this relaxed hangout combines bowling, billiards, arcade games and darts for a fun but low-key afternoon. A full menu is available in case lunch or dinner are needed. Oh, and parents? Happy hour specials are available, too.
For more inspiration, be sure to check out our family-focused trip itinerary, two days filled with ideas and tips. Share your favorites with us at @VisitIndependence or with hashtag #VisitIndependence.
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