Trailside Center

The Trailside Center is an information hub located at 9901 Holmes Road that supplies travel guides, maps, and regional details for visitors. It operates through collaboration with Kansas City Parks and Neighborhoods Services Departments to help guests plan their explorations.

From the 1830s until 1854, this area marked the western boundary of the United States. Thousands of wagons passed through heading west during this period to seek opportunity and establish new settlements.

The center displays exhibits about pioneer settlement in the southwest region and preserves research materials documenting early life here. Visitors can learn how settlers lived and what role this area played in westward expansion.

The center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM and Sunday from 12 PM to 4 PM. Meeting rooms are available for groups and special gatherings.

The center sits where three major historical trade routes converge: the California, Oregon, and Santa Fe trails. This crossroads location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring sites along these famous paths.

GPS coordinates: 38.94800,-94.58210

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:23