It is such a well designed space. The newer exhibits have several options for interaction. If you've been in the past, the oval office is still there too. They have great rotating exhibits, and while the gardens are under construction right now, it looks as if they'll be open soon. read more

As part of a trip to Independence, a group of us checked out the Truman Library. Full disclosure: I'm usually more of a fan of good food and camaraderie than museums, so take this review with a grain of salt! ​First, a quick heads-up: depending on when you visit, there is a ton of road construction nearby, so your GPS might feed you disinformation like a Cold War operative. ​That said, the newly renovated museum is a visual marvel. If you're a history buff, it's packed with interactive exhibits and several film areas. Because the layout follows a set path, it can get a bit stuffy when masses of humanity roll through in large tour groups, but there's plenty to keep you engaged. ​Some of my favorite parts were learning about the intricate history of how Israel became a state, checking out the classic cars, and taking the interactive quizzes to see if you're government material or getting exposed as a commie spy! ​All in all, it was a fun, educational experience that brought back classic grade-school field trip vibes read more

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I had just come from the Eisenhower Museum (34th POTUS, 1953 to 1961) a couple of days ago, not realizing that perhaps I should have seen them in the order they served as President. It might have made the history make more sense. Oh, well. Here we are. You can expect to spent a good three hours here, maybe more, because the Harry S. Truman Library (33rd POTUS, 1945 to 1953) and Museum is one of those places that rewards slowing down. The exhibits walk you through Truman's life with a clarity that feels almost old-fashioned in the best way, starting with his early years in Independence and moving through the presidency with a steady, chronological rhythm. It's dense and close to overwhelming, full of letters, photographs, campaign materials, and those moments where you realize just how much of the twentieth century passed through Truman's hands and how much was shaped by hom. The museum does a particularly good job with the heavy chapters. The end of WWII, the decision to use the atom bomb, the Marshall Plan, the founding of NATO, and the early Cold War. These aren't just bullet points on a timeline. They're laid out with context, artifacts and enough explanation that you can follow the threads even if most of it happened before you were born. It's the kind of museum where you keep thinking you're almost done, only to turn a corner and find another room that pulls you in. Outside, the courtyard where Harry and Bess Truman are laid to rest adds a quiet, reflective ending to the visit. After spendint hours inside tracing the arc of his presidency, stepping into that simple outdoor space feels like closing a book. Independence itself gives the museum a sense of place that I did not feel at other presidential libraries. I've been to the George W. Bush and the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and the LBJ Presidential Library and the JFK Presidential Library. Truman lived here, walked these streets, represented these people and stayed rooted long after leaving office. Even if you didn't plan your presidential library visits in chronological order, this one stands firmly on its own and it's easy to see why people linger well past the three hour mark. [Round number review 26000 overall - 819 of 2026 - 538 in Missouri] read more

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Overall a very nice and informative walk down memory lane. The volunteers at the beginning were very helpful. The exhibits were thought provoking and very interesting as well. The only reason not to give five star was an over zealous security man barked orders before we enter instead of simply telling us what to do. read more

This was an amazing experience! The exhibits and artifacts that they had were awesome. Also, as a history teacher and professor, I appreciated the straightforward and honest approach they took towards President Truman. I also enjoyed how the weather was so nice that I was able to walk about the grounds for a little while. Finally, the staff was very engaging and professional. If you were somebody who wants to learn about the time period from World War II through the Korean War, this is a place that you need to check out. You will definitely learn something! read more

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Neither of us had been since we were in school and the updated exhibits with state of the art technology were impressive. Very immersive and engaging. It deepened my respect for Harry S Truman ( and I finally learned what the S stands for ...or doesn't actually). read more

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Enjoyed our visit to another presidential library and museum. I found it very informative and learned quite a bit about Truman. Reasonably priced at $12, with friendly staff and interesting exhibits. Worth a visit! read more

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I am a history geek and enjoy presidential libraries. Solid experience here. Also attended a free weekend event at the Truman. read more

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This museum deserves much more hype than it gets! If you like history, it's a must-see. There were so many interesting exhibits that were interactive, and I appreciated the different perspectives on Truman's decision to drop the nuclear bombs- a very controversial move. There were many cool artifacts in the museum as well that I was not expecting- lots of interesting items from WWII. It's reasonably priced and definitely recommend everyone make a visit! read more

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The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is a must see. It tells the story of Harry S. Truman and the story of America while he was president. There are excellent interactive exhibits including a full scale replica of the Oval Office as he used it during his term. The president and the first lady are also laid to rest there. This is a pivotal moment in world and American history and should be seen by everyone! read more

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Pretty awesome exhibition of who the 33rd President of the United States was as a leader and a man. If you're in Independence, this is a can't miss The museum takes you from his time as a young man through the various phases of his life, (WW1 and the various issues this guy had to deal with). I always wondered about what could have been going on when a leader makes a decision, and this museum certainly gives an individual a fair picture of who he was and what he was dealing with during critical times in our history. You can actually spend the whole day here. It is well organized and extremely interactive. I showed up with a limited time, but Mr. Hamil at the front desk focused me on the museum's favorite exhibits and some other can't miss items. The museum has a bookmark with the top 8 items to look out for... but there was so much to see and find out, lots of stuff from the history books, and then next level items like a note Bess (Mrs. Truman) wrote on the back of a photo that said "come back safely." The library also has the burial grounds of the president and the first lady, along with an eternal flame of freedom that commemorates President Truman. One of the items that I was looking for, and I went through the museum twice, was the Normal Rockwell painting "Family Squabble," so, I have another reason to come back. The museum is beautiful. It's modern, it's well taken care of, and easy to move through. The staff is super friendly and helpful. The bathrooms are clean... it's a really great presidential library/museum. Great for families. Free Parking. Interactive, educational, and relaxing learning space. read more

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I went here as my goal is to visit Presidential libraries when I am in town and I used this day to go there as I wanted to take a break from the casino. The library does not look modern compared to the other ones I have been to, but they are the same size however. The people working there are very nice. They have a lot of movie clips of Harry Truman and there is a lot of reading though. I went through the museum within 2 hours of taking my time. I did not read everything as that can be overwhelming. I did like the car exhibits and the background and life behind President Truman and did learn quite a bit. I did enjoy seeing the office. Afterwards I would suggest visiting downtown as that is only a mile away, but then again lot of construction on the road. read more

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I love presidential libraries and this is a good one. Very interactive and I love the focus on his presidency and the decisions he had to make. read more

I was visiting Kansas City. Independence was less than a 30-minute drive away. My visit to the "Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum" was worth the trip. The library's website (www.trumanlibrary*gov) has information on hours, admission and directions. Admission fees are: $12 for adults; $10 for seniors, 62 and older; $10 for veterans; $8 for college students w/ID; $5 for youth 13-18; and free for children 12 and under. The library closed in 2019 and underwent a significant renovation. It reopened in July 2021. The result is a sleek, modern museum with interesting exhibits and artifacts. The displays are curated well and map the course of President Truman's life before, during and post presidency. It's interesting to think that when Truman was selected to be Roosevelt's vice president, no one would have imagined what a consequential figure Truman would become. read more

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Amazing Presidential Library. Many rooms with displays going through President Truman's term of office, many interactive displays as well. Nicely done, learned a lot. Highly recommended. I was apprehensive at first, but so glad I went. About 3 hours to do a thorough review. read more

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My wife and I were in Independence for a weekend trip to celebrate Valentines Day and a celebration of life for a friend who recently passed. We stayed at a wonderful B&B (I reviewed that as well) and had some time to check out Independence. Neither of us have been to the Truman Library & Museum so we thought we would go see it. If you are like me and love history, check this place out, it was $22 for both of us to get in (with a Senior discount for me) and that got you a lot of real estate to peruse. There are 2 levels and a lot of reading. There was a lot I didn't know about Truman and his family and all the knowledge I got from this was very fascinating. If you are in Independence and have about 3 hours to spare to take it all in, I highly recommend it. We were there for about 2 hours and really didn't get to take it all in, we will be back to check it out again. Well worth the time. read more

We have been visiting all of the presidential libraries and museums over the past decade and today we decided to visit this one. It was one of the first ones opened but was recently renovated over a year ago. The interior is very modern, educational, and informative. We especially enjoyed all of the videos. The exterior part is very beautiful and peaceful. The people working there were very welcoming and helpful. read more

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The library is very well appointed and thorough in its history. I learned many interesting things on my visit. A lot of interactive areas. Great for children and teens who would not be learning a lot of this hosting school. Highly recommend all Presidential Libraries especially those from our earliest Presidents. read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri

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This is a great presidential library. I've been to a few now and would rank it as number 2. While it's smaller than many of the others, they pack a lot in here. From his time as a farmer and local politician up to the presidency, it's all interesting; especially when you consider his involvement in WW I & II, Israel, Korea and early civil rights. If you're in the KC area, this is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon. I spent about 2 hours here. read more

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What an excellent tribute to Harry. The museum was well laid out with plenty of parking and grounds were we picniced after our visit. We spent about 3 hours here and enjoyed every minute of our visit. Museum portrayed his early years as well as his presidency and everything in between. He was a people's man. Interesting films and displays about the dropping of the atomic bomb and his integration of the armed forces. Such a cool tribute. Highly recommend read more

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Toward the end of the Truman presidential library and museum, I noticed a small exhibit of notes from students, asking what they had learned. One said something along the lines of, "There is so much more to Truman. In school I was only taught THE BOMB!" This museum, best viewed in conjunction with the Truman home and his cousins' home (both reviewed separately) is one of my favorites. I loved FDR's as well, but Truman's, as the aforementioned student stated, taught me a lot I didn't know. It's well laid out and organized, with several well-done short films. The first film was striking to me, highlighting quotes concerning the doubt cast on the Truman presidency (FDR, after four terms, was like America's father after all). It uses a colorful, visually appealing multi-media approach to take you through Truman's youth. His courtship and marriage. His business ventures. His climb up the political ladder. It focuses heavily on WWII, then transitions into the Korean War and the communist red scare. The artifacts are exceptional. His briefcase. His uniforms. You learn his shoe was a size 9. The pen used to sign the surrender in Germany. Atom bomb artifacts. An urn containing dirt from the battle of the bulge. Moving letters from Truman to Bess. Heartbreaking letters from the public to Truman. The havoc wreaked on Japan isn't glossed over. The site discusses Truman's policy agenda, who he was as a man. His legacy. The site also has a neat exhibit downstairs with rare photos, set up like a photo album. His autos are displayed. Truman's office, which he used the last several days of his life, is here, and set up as he left it. Truman and Bess are buried here. The staff were all so helpful and the price ultra reasonable. I know more about him and like him even more than before. Worth a stop 100%. read more

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5 years ago I would've given this 4 stars simply because it was so outdated. I definitely cannot say that anymore. They have many state of the art displays. Their multimedia presentations are amazing. The workers are also phenomenally helpful going above and beyond. I accidentally set my glasses down and left them near a display. They got them back to me while I was still in the library. Talk about great service!! This library gives an in depth realistic look at one of history's most important figures of the 20th century. I highly recommend this to any student of history and the presidents. It's a must see. If you haven't seen this library in the last 5 years, you haven't seen it at all. It's essentially almost all brand new. read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - World War 1 multimedia display detailing Truman's service with Battery D - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri

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What do you call an underdog who failed many things in life, then became vice president and became president shortly there after and no one thought you could do the job. You not only did the job, but got elected to a second term in one of the most trying times in history. We call him President Harry S. Truman. This is a beautiful library with so much information, many places to sit and listen to stories, narrated by some of the top news people and family of Harry S Truman I can truly admit I did not know much about him before coming to the library, but I'm so glad we came. Do yourself a favor and come here. There is a lot of free parking and signs to guide your way. read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - Exhibit - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri

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Free parking. Admission is $12 (you can see his home for free which is very close to the museum). The museum like every presidential museum is skewed and biased but did provide a lot of good information and history. What I liked best is that it is very interactive. read more

We have Truman to thank for the creation of Presidential Libraries! It's really amazing to learn that he and his wife are buried there and he kept an office there which you can view. A great library with interactive exhibits, designs that include the walls, floor, and ceiling. Well organized and a great place to learn about a former president. Note the gift shop closes at 4:45 pm. We had to make a 2nd trip to get souvenirs! read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - Around the building on the other side of the main entrance - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri

This library is really easily accessible and very clean. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Checking in they made sure to mark on our map of all the important little things not to miss. The graves are outside in the middle of the buildings. The gardens are gorgeous out there. It's very peaceful. There was so much history to learn. It's described very clearly. Definitely go to this museum if you are in KC Their house is a short drive away and just beautiful. Unfortunately we were too late to tour but could walk around on the sidewalk to see this beauty. read more

One of the best presidential libraries. Since Truman himself had a hand in creating it, there are many personal and historical objects to view in a beautiful building. The timeline is done well and shows the challenges and spirit of his presidency. read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri

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What an amazing President, and an excellent library that offers the perspective on everything Truman faced. Following FDR as president, Truman had so many responsibilities fighting back the expansion of the Soviet empire, Japan, and the European adversaries, dealing with domestic civil rights issues and maintaining a strong economy. This library did an excellent job covering it all, along with how he got to such an important position at a vital time in the country's history. The library is convenient to access from Kansas City, just about 25 minutes from our hotel in the financial district. For just a $12 entry fee, this is one of those places that you should certainly go out of your way to see. The staff is incredibly friendly and efficient, and offered quite a bit of additional perspectives and answered any and all questions. read more

During a recent trip to Kansas City, I re-visited the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum. As my previous visit was BYE (Before Yelp Existed), it was a good time to go as it has been recently renovated and write my review! Because of the recent renovation, the exhibits feel fresh and new. A little streamlined, there is a lot of new multi-media exhibits and a lot less reading required. I always enjoy seeing what happened on the journey to the Presidency. Harry Truman is one of my favorite presidents, for both his decisive leadership during his presidency and the fact both he & I were both National Guard captains who later served in the Army Reserve. During his watch most of the modern national security establishments were created (merging the War & Navy departments into Defense; splitting the Air Force into a separate service, the National Security Council; creating the CIA; and setting up alliances such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, etc); and the Truman Doctrine declared to contain communism. Previously the papers of the President were their personal property, and some became lost or held privately. President Roosevelt became the first to donate to donate his papers back to the public through the National Archives. A few years after President Truman left office the Presidential Libraries Act of 1955 declared that presidential papers were public property and established the system of Presidential Libraries for researchers to use. It is particularly fascinating to see what President Truman did after leaving office. Like the fabled Roman general Cincinnatus, he went back home to Independence MO to live a humble life. He was a regular fixture at his libary, keeping such regular hours he occasionally beat the caretakers in until they gave him a key. At that time Presidents did not have a pension, so all he had to survive on was Social Security, royalties from his memoirs, and an Army Reserve pension. Truman famously said, "show me a man who gets rich by being a politician, and I'll show you a crook," which tells you a lot of the politicians we have today! Several years later the Former Presidents Act was passed in 1958, granting a pension and other fringe benefits to former presidents. Very enjoyable, recommend and will repeat when my travels bring me back to Kansas City! read more

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Truman wasn't my favorite President but this Museum is fantastic. Lot's of great history and the exhibit's are wonderful. How amazing I would imagine it would have been to visit this site when Truman was working out of the building and would frequently join or lead tours. read more

We love going to presidential libraries and museum, so this review is a bit biased. We became really interested in Truman's presidency after visiting The Little White House in Key West, FL. The museum is very informative and easy to tour. After seeing what he accomplished, i.e. having to make the decision to use the atomic bombs has the new president, especially since he had no idea it existed until he became president; then being part of the 38th parallel division and then having to determine how U.S. would be involved in the Koren War, led the way to establish NATO and worked on the establishment of social security. And on top of that, he was a war hero in the WWI. A lot of interesting artifacts. A Must See. read more

The Truman presidential library was the first I have been to, and I will make it a point to make sure it will not be the last. One of the things that was most enjoyable for me and the rest of the family, was the exhibit to find out which one of the group participants was a communist spy. Naturally I passed with flying colors, with no suspicion drawn towards me whatsoever, even after being directly accused by a saboteur!(likely by the spy!) This was an enjoyable experience for everyone, and seeing artifacts that date back to the time of Kings in Israel was also remarkable. I did leave with a newspaper reprint, but the "Dewey Wins" newspaper was the most desired, and there is some degree of reluctance to sell actual fake news in a federal library. Would return to accuse more people of being spies! 5/5 experience! read more

Fun. Informative. And worth the money. Spent about 2 hours here and could've spend a little longer. If you're in KC, check it out.

Well if you think you know Truman think again. This exploration of the man goes from his formative years, to his service in World War One all the way to replacing one of the most heroic Presidents of all time FDR. Truman deserves a great level of respect for his approach and I think winning the election against Dewey justifies his place as a serviceable and effective President. This experience will give you a lot of background onto what prepares a man to make tough choices in a pivotal span of history. Highly recommended for any person that wants to understand more about what America represents and why our global goodwill is seen as a beacon of light for other nations to follow. read more

This was my first presidential library visit and it was everything I'd imagined, and more. Walking in, everything just felt like President Truman. I visited years ago and my review is long overdue, but this particular review is for the Truman library staff. I am from Missouri, but now live in another state. I really wanted to have a certain tote bag from the website for Election Day, and general use to rep my home state and our president, but it had been sold out online for months. Finally, I decided to call and see if maybe they'd be doing a restock. Not only was everyone so kind, they all knew what I was talking about and connected me to Anita, who I believe is the gift shop manager. She was so kind, found the bag, told me there were 3 in stock and she'd be happy to sell it to me over the phone and ship it to me. I wish I'd caught the first woman's name too because she was equally wonderful. I am thrilled to finally have my tote, and cannot wait to get my kids back to Missouri to visit the library and Truman NPS sites. I know it will be as special for them as it was for me and a big part of that is the fabulous staff that makes these places so incredible. Thank you so much, Anita & the Truman team! read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri

Lots of history and so much to learn about his presidency. He wasn't expected to be win and there are things in our current day political climate. You'll enjoy read more

This was our first visit to a Presidential Library and I found it to be extremely informative and very enjoyable. I learned things about Harry S Truman that I didn't know and found some explanations for some things I knew a little about but not enough. The library has extensive exhibits regarding Truman's life - not only as a president but including the periods both before and after his presidency. There is a replica of the Oval Office as well as the office he used during his life after the presidency. It was especially interesting to lean how humble he was and how different the times were back then. For example, he used to go for walks thru town alone (no Secret Service, no bodyguards, etc.). It was a different time. The library courtyard includes the burial sites for he, Bess, their daughter and her husband. read more

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I've been to quite a few presidential libraries and this one seemed a little bit smaller than the others but still had plenty to offer in terms of history about Truman's upbringing, presidency, and life afterwards. It's easily navigable and also has a pretty courtyard in the back. Truman is buried there and there's a nice memorial to him. If you're a US/presidential history buff, you'll definitely want to cross this spot off your list. read more

We just visited the Truman Library & Museum and found it to be very informative and of great value for understanding the person, his life, and the contributions that he made as President of our country. We purchased our tickets online which made it very easy once we got to the museum. I like how the exhibits started with how Truman came into office and then went back to his business ventures prior to him running for office. The responsibilities that Truman stepped into after just 90 days as the Vice President were huge and he demonstrated amazing leadership in getting our country through those times. Learning how he influenced the end of World War II and how long it took for him to learn about the atomic bomb was fascinating. The second section about his reelection and the challenges that he faced during this period of rebuilding the country was also very interesting. I have a much greater appreciation for the leader he was and am thankful to have the opportunity to visit this presidential library. The book store/souvenir shop was quite modest but still had a nice collection of items to capture your interest. I enjoyed looking at the different books they had, many of which were general history of the times and not just about Truman. We spent a little over three hours here on our visit and had to stay focused on reading the materials in the exhibit to get through everything that was there. I was also excited about the architecture and the layout of the library and the grounds it sat on. Add this to your list of places to visit if you are in the area. read more

I've visited twice already since the reopening. My family and I absolutely loved it and plan to return so we can fully digest the second half of the museum. The content is fascinating and entertaining. They do a great job at telling his story without the bias often seen at Presidential sites (e.g. Andrew Jackson's home admits he owned slaves but has a heavy emphasis on his "kindness" toward to the people he owned). I particularly enjoyed the room that explored WWII and post-WWII around the world. Absolutely phenomenal and one of the best historic sites I've visited. read more

Harry S. Truman Library & Museum - Libraries Near Me - Independence, Missouri