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Visit the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri, and you’re not only visiting a presidential museum, but a World War II museum, a Cold War museum, and more—all wrapped into one.
Whether you’re planning a staycation in the Kansas City metro or a weekend out with the family, the Truman Library is a local treasure every Kansas Citian should have on their bucket list—even if you’ve visited the museum in the past.
Last year, the Truman Library reopened to the public after a $29 million renovation that transformed the library and museum into a cinematic experience.
The first update to the Truman Library in over 20 years and the largest since it opened in 1957, the institution unveils two more decades of research on President Harry S. Truman’s legacy.
Previously, the main exhibit spaces were divided into presidential years, with Truman’s early years relegated to the lower level. Now, the Truman Library is designed to answer the question of how an accidental president become one of history’s most beloved presidents who shaped the world we live in today.
“One of the things that I’m really proud of with this new exhibit is that we’ve been able to tell the story of the Truman presidency in so many different ways, and at so many different levels,” says Kurt Graham, the director of Harry S. Truman Library and Museum. “This is the very definition of an immersive environment. There’s something here for everyone.”
Visitors will be directed along a path that takes patrons through Truman’s early years in Independence, his time in the military during World War I, his relationship with the controversial Kansas City political boss Tom Pendergast, and his journey from a Jackson County judge to Missouri senator, U.S. vice president, and President of the United States.
After experiencing Truman’s background, patrons are guided through significant events in Truman’s presidency: World War II, the Cold War, the Korean War, and more.
“You can understand more about our nation by spending a day in Independence and at the Truman Library than anywhere else in the country,” according to American author and historian David McCullough.
A Museum for All Ages
Now, Truman’s legacy is explained through immersive mixed-media exhibits, eight films and more than 140 minutes of riveting reels, making it an experience all ages can enjoy. Museum admission is $12 with discounts for seniors, students, veterans, and active members of the U.S. military. Admission is free for members and children 12 and younger.
Designed by Gallagher & Associates—the firm behind the world-renowned International Spy Museum in Washington D.C. and National World War II Museum in New Orleans—the museum is designed so that every age group and type of learner enjoys a memorable experience. Highlights include:
- Immersive sound-and-light theaters depicting WWI and the Cold War
- An interactive 14-foot globe exploring the hard problems of peace following WWII
- Expanded insight on Truman’s leadership on Civil Rights and the recognition of Israel
- Fresh perspective on Truman’s family, including Bess Truman’s role as advisor and confidante
- Loyalty Review Board role-playing game where players uncover government disloyalty during the Red Scare
- Enhanced storytelling and never-before-seen artifacts from the Korean War
“When you look at the context of a museum experience, you have to know today that everyone comes with a different lens,” says Patrick Gallagher, the founder of Gallagher & Associates. “So, when a family’s in a space together, it’s our goal to give enough diversity of engagement that the family stays together and that they talk about what they’re doing.”
Become a Member for Added Benefits
Patrons could spend hours in the museum simply watching the videos, choosing to just walk from one interactive station to the next, or by choosing to do a deep dive into one exhibit in the museum.
The newly renovated library and museum leaves visitors wanting to return again and again, and for those lucky enough to live in the Kansas City area, a membership to the Truman Library Institute is worth considering.
Not only does membership include unlimited free access to the Truman Library, but members also receive free admission to all of the presidential libraries operated by the National Archives. Other benefits include museum store discounts, invitations to member-only events, and more. A $50 family membership provides benefits to four people.
The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum is open daily – Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Plan your visit here.