Harry S. Truman Library & Museum in Independence, MO 64050

If your family can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen and into the fun and informative library of the 33rd president, Harry S. Truman. The 2004 opening of the permanent exhibit, Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times, culminated a $22.5 million library renovation. The exhibit allows kids to dress up in period costumes, sort mail, write a letter to President Truman, and make campaign buttons.

Truman's rise from a failed Kansas City businessman to world leader is chronicled. Special attention is given to his common man approach to the presidency and his love for his wife and daughter.

Also, the museum features a copy of the Oval Office as it appeared during Truman's presidency. You can't help but get a few goosebumps as his soft-spoken voice comes over the speaker welcoming you to the hometown library he planned especially for young people of future generations.