Experience · Independence
Frontier & Fun Family Day in Independence
Start your family adventure at the National Frontier Trails Museum, where you can learn about the history of the American West. Enjoy a casual BBQ lunch at A Little BBQ Joint, then head to Cool Crest Family Fun Center for an afternoon of mini-golf and arcade games.
A 5.5-hour Ashland Ridge full_day plan for families — National Frontier Trails Museum, A Little BBQ Joint, Cool Crest Family Fun Center.
- Duration
- 5h 15m
- Cost
- $50–$90
- Stops
- 3 stops
- Area
- Ashland Ridge
- Walking
- Moderate walking · Total 4.4-mile driving route
- Ideal for
- Families · Kids
The plan
The plan
- 1National Frontier Trails Museum(2 hrs)→
- 2A Little BBQ Joint(1 hr 15 min)→
- 3Cool Crest Family Fun Center(2 hrs)
Why this plan works
Every stop sits in Ashland Ridge, so the whole plan happens inside one neighborhood. National Frontier Trails Museum is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. It finishes at Cool Crest Family Fun Center — a short, low-effort stop you can skip if you're ready to call it. Best suited to families and families with kids who want a planned Independence outing without improvising between stops.
The story
Overview
Start your family adventure at the National Frontier Trails Museum, where you can learn about the history of the American West. Enjoy a casual BBQ lunch at A Little BBQ Joint, then head to Cool Crest Family Fun Center for an afternoon of mini-golf and arcade games.
The itinerary
3 stops, one great day
- 12 hrsNational Frontier Trails Museum
Arts & Culture
Museum & interpretive center exploring the history of the settlement of the American West.
What to do — Engage with the interactive displays and artifacts at the National Frontier Trails Museum, learning about the settlement of the American West.
Scout Side QuestPick one artifact on display that you would secretly smuggle into your pioneer wagon.
0.7 mi · 14 min walk or 5 min drive
Then Drive a short 5 minutes to a casual lunch spot.
21h 15mA Little BBQ JointFood & Drink
Easygoing, family-owned mainstay for classic BBQ, with unique car-themed decor & an outdoor bar.
What to do — Enjoy classic, easygoing BBQ favorites in a unique car-themed setting perfect for families.
Scout Side QuestLook around and spot the quirkiest car part or piece of road memorabilia on the walls.
3.7 mi · 11 min drive
Then Continue driving about 10 minutes east on US Hwy 40 to your next activity.
3Optional 2 hrsCool Crest Family Fun CenterFamily · Ashland Ridge
Mini-golf, video arcade, go-karts, batting cages, a kids' play area & pizzeria under one roof.
What to do — Spend the afternoon at Cool Crest Family Fun Center, choosing from mini-golf, arcade games, or other attractions.
Scout Stories
People who did this
Be the first to leave a Moment.
Did this outing? Hit "We Did This" up top and share a photo.
The route
On the map
Common questions
Planning this outing
- Is this a good Independence itinerary for families?
- Yes. It's built for families and families with kids and runs about 5 hr 15 min across 3 stops, starting at National Frontier Trails Museum.
- How long does this outing take?
- Plan on 5 hr 15 min door to door, including time between stops.
- How much does this Independence itinerary cost?
- Roughly $50–$90 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
- Is this itinerary walkable?
- Not entirely. The stops cover about 4.4 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
- Do I need reservations?
- No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.
Keep exploring
More ways to spend time in Independence
Different moods, same city.
Date NightIndependenceBudget-Friendly Morning in Historic IndependenceStart your day with a free deep dive into local history at the iconic Truman Courthouse, exploring its significance in the community. Follow it up with a classic, filling breakfast at The Big Biscuit, ensuring you're energized without breaking the bank. Conclude your morning with a pleasant walk through McCoy Park to enjoy the fresh air and scenery.
- Duration
- 3 hrs
- Cost
- $10–$25
- Ideal for
- Solo · Friends
FamilyIndependenceFamily Fun Afternoon in IndependenceKick off your family afternoon with a prehistoric adventure at Prehistoric Putt, where everyone can enjoy a round of dinosaur-themed mini-golf. Afterward, refuel with classic American comfort food at Corner Cafe, a local favorite diner. Finish your outing with some fresh air and play at McCoy Park, known for its playground and splash park.
- Duration
- 3h 45m
- Cost
- $35–$70
- Ideal for
- Families · Kids
Food & DrinkIndependenceTruman Home & Morning WalkBegin your budget-friendly morning by touring the Harry S Truman National Historic Site, gaining insight into the former president's personal life. Afterwards, grab an affordable coffee and quick bite from 7 Brew Coffee. Conclude your outing with a pleasant walk through Bundschu Park.
- Duration
- 3 hrs
- Cost
- $5–$15
- Ideal for
- Solo · Friends
Date NightIndependenceHistoric Elegance Date Night in IndependenceBegin your evening with a stroll through the opulent Vaile Mansion, admiring its architecture and period furnishings. Afterward, treat yourselves to a sophisticated Italian dinner at V's Italiano Ristorante. Conclude your date with an optional relaxed drink at The Court House Exchange, perfect for lingering conversation.
- Duration
- 4h 30m
- Cost
- $75–$150
- Ideal for
- Couples · Adults