For couples who live in larger metropolitan areas like Kansas City or Topeka, one of the best ways to relax is to head out and explore the best small towns in Missouri. A road trip is a lovely way to spend quality time together, chatting and listening to music while the beautiful countryside whips by the car windows. There’s something to be said for enjoying the convenience and cost-effectiveness of staying close to home while discovering local treasures.
Independence, MO, is one of the best small towns for such an adventure. The “Queen City of the Trails” offers a rich history, including the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site and the National Frontier Trails Museum. Its vibrant downtown, antique shops, and beautiful parks provide a mix of history, culture, and relaxation, perfect for a romantic getaway to reconnect. There are also a handful of other small towns in Missouri nearby to see what else is in the Show-Me State.
Our charming small town also has a great selection of locally-owned historic lodging properties, and Silver Heart Inn is one of the best places to stay. As a top-rated bed and breakfast in Kansas City, our quiet suburb of Independence offers the perfect backdrop for your getaways, and our guest rooms set the tone for romance to blossom. Check our upcoming availability and book your room at our bed and breakfast in Kansas City today!
Explore the Best Small Towns in Missouri
There are so many things to do in Independence that make it one of the best small towns in Missouri! From historical museums and mansions to wonderful restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, you’ll find plenty to discover on our charming streets. When you’ve seen it all here, head to the nearby Excelsior Springs for more quaint, small-town things to do.
Here are the best things to do in Independence, MO:
- Harry S. Truman Presidential Library: Delve into the life and legacy of the 33rd U.S. President, Harry S. Truman. The museum features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and personal memorabilia, providing insights into Truman’s presidency and significant events. The facility has been recently renovated and includes new special exhibitions.
- Vaile Mansion: Built in 1881, the mansion boasts 31 rooms, nine marble fireplaces, and elaborately painted ceilings, showcasing the luxury and innovation of its time. Guests can marvel at the Second Empire-style architecture, intricate woodwork, and period furnishings, making it an immersive experience into Victorian-era grandeur.
- Bingham-Waggoner Estate: The 26-room mansion, set on 19+ acres, features stunning Victorian architecture and a rich history tied to the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. Guests can enjoy docent-led tours, explore the beautifully restored rooms, and visit the on-site boutique for a unique experience.
- National Frontier Trails Museum: The museum features exhibits on the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails, showcasing artifacts, diaries, and multimedia presentations that bring the pioneer era to life. Visitors can also explore a pioneer log cabin and view an authentic covered wagon.
- Little Blue Trace Trail: If you want to head outdoors for a hike or biking adventure. One of the best places to do that is the Little Blue Trace Trail—a picturesque 15.5-mile trail that follows the Little Blue River.
- Explore Independence Square: Stroll the square lined with these historic buildings, which makes Independence one of the best small towns in Missouri!
More Things to Do in Excelsior Springs Nearby:
Excelsior Springs is located on the East Fork Fishing River and is known for its fresh spring water, which has healing properties in historical retellings. If you’re a history buff, this small town in Missouri should be on your list!
- Tour the Elms Hotel: This historic hotel is where President Truman stayed in 1948. The grounds are beautiful for a stroll.
- Explore the Hall of Waters: The building, which once served as a distribution point for the town’s renowned mineral waters, features the world’s longest water bar and an informative museum.
- Stop by the Local Wineries: Three local wineries are accessible by trolley tour in Excelsior. You’ll also find a lovely selection of Missouri wines at Willow Spring Mercantile, which offers an excellent retail selection of Missouri wines in the state.
- Hit the Links: Head to the Excelsior Springs Golf Course for 18 holes in the stunning countryside. The championship course, par 72, was designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Bendelow.
Book Our Bed and Breakfast in Kansas City
One of the best parts of planning a vacation in one of the best small towns in Missouri is the cozy lodging accommodations. When you choose our bed and breakfast near Kansas City, guests can enjoy amenities like a gourmet breakfast, a complimentary open-air spa tub, and engaging activities like murder mystery events. This B&B is perfect for a romantic getaway, anniversary, quick weekend trip, or even an intimate wedding celebration.
Our inn features four luxurious guest rooms in an 1856 house, each uniquely designed with plush beds, en-suite baths, and electric fireplaces—these are the most romantic options. Additionally, there are two secluded cottages equipped with full kitchens and fireplaces, which are ideal for extended vacations and provide a fantastic homebase to explore the area.
A favorite activity at our bed and breakfast is our Murder Mystery dinners. If you happen to be staying with us when one of these is planned, they are so fun to attend. These dinners provide an immersive, interactive experience where guests become characters in a themed mystery story. Participants receive roles and clues, working together to solve the mystery while enjoying a multi-course meal. We can’t wait to host you; book your room today!
