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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Independence

4 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Independence, Missouri

Updated January 27, 2020

Unusual Attractions in Independence

Independence, Missouri

Vaile Mansion

A remarkably opulent mansion with a tragic history.

Independence, Missouri

Independence Temple

This otherworldly church spire reaches up toward the heavens.

Independence, Missouri

The Bingham-Waggoner Estate

This mansion was made famous by its colorful cast of owners and location along the Sante Fe Trail.

Independence, Missouri

Leila's Hair Museum

A museum celebrating the Victorian obsession with hair art.

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Kansas City, Missouri

Bird's Botanicals

A cave 150 feet beneath Kansas City is the perfect climate for growing 10,000 delicate orchids.

3 miles from Independence

Kansas City, Missouri

SubTropolis

The "World's Largest Underground Business Complex," a 55,000,000-square-foot city underneath Missouri.

5 miles from Independence

KCMO, Missouri

Kessler Park Reservoir

An abandoned concrete jungle surrounded by a lush park.

7 miles from Independence

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