3 Weekend Getaways Near Kansas City

Independence, Missouri: 10 miles east of Kansas City Once you get past the big-box stores, historic Independence Square doesn't feel a bit like suburban sprawl. The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum (pictured at left) has impressive exhibits. The Truman home offers an intimate glimpse of the 33rd president, and Ophelia's serves inventive fare such as a grilled shrimp Cobb salad. (800) 748-7323; visitindependence.com

Fort Scott, Kansas: 94 miles south of Kansas City Kansas' Civil War history spirals around Fort Scott, where today, a national historic site preserves 20 buildings. (Look for 170-year-old ax marks on the beams.) Try to time your visit for a special event, so you can chat with reenactors. Also, don't miss the nearby National Cemetery. (800) 245-3678; fortscott.com