Queen City

Sipping your coffee on the front porch with the morning sun peeking through the leaves of the many tall oak trees lining the streets of Queen City, it’s easy to feel like royalty. That feeling is only strengthened by the fact that your house sits on a large lot, giving you ample space for landscaping or just enjoying the feeling of relaxing in your own backyard. But you don’t need an elevated title or a royal pedigree to live in Queen City. A wide range of price points makes the neighborhood accessible for first-time homebuyers, and the sense of community that pervades makes it attractive to those with more experience in real estate. And once people buy in the neighborhood, they see little reason to move elsewhere. Ron van Fleet, a Realtor with ReMax Elite, says, “People who buy in the area tend to stay in the area. The houses are well-maintained and the schools are great.”

Houses in the neighborhood were typically built from the 1950s to the 1970s, though some new construction is beginning to pop up in the area. The median price for homes in the neighborhood is around $195,000, with an average price-per-square-foot of $160. A typical two-bedroom/one-bathroom bungalow can list for around $108,000, with prices going up to just over $300,000 for a six-bedroom/three-bathroom Craftsman-style home on an acre-sized lot. “It’s a good mix of prices,” says van Fleet. “First-time buyers can usually find a home they can afford, and you’ve got bigger homes that are good for families.”

Students in the neighborhood can attend Glendale Elementary, Bridger Middle and William Chrisman High School. One of the many impressive programs within the school system is the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Lego and robotics teams. Those in elementary and middle school can participate with the Lego team under the mentorship of high school robotics team members. And while there are no guarantees that your child will grow up to be President, it’s worth noting that William Chrisman High School counts former President Harry S. Truman as an alum.

Attached to Bridger Middle School is Henley Aquatic Center, a family-oriented indoor swimming facility with 10 lanes dedicated to lap swimming. The center also offers swim lessons for all ages and open swimming. The facility is available for rent to host birthday celebrations year-round. During the summer months, the outdoor Adventure Oasis Water Park offers a lazy river, three water slides, a family pool and lap pool, concession stands and changing facilities.

When residents of Queen City feel the need for some time in the natural world, it’s a short drive to the George Owens Nature Park, an 86-acre forest oasis, complete with two stocked fishing ponds, 3 miles of trails and multiple picnic areas. “It’s a great escape for an hour or a whole day,” van Fleet says of the park. The DeWitt Center on the park’s western edge features a 150-gallon turtle enclosure and a 75-gallon freshwater aquarium, plus numerous educational programs throughout the year.

“Everything you need – from groceries to hardware stores to even the hospital – is within about three miles,” says van Fleet. Tractor Supply is conveniently situated within the neighborhood, and Price Chopper, Hy-Vee and Aldi are just a quick trip down East 23rd Street for groceries. “The location really provides easy access to everything,” van Fleet says. “You’re 10 minutes to downtown Independence and 10 minutes to the country.” And in case you need even more convenience in your life, Queen City is just 20 minutes by car from downtown Kansas City.

A local favorite for a quick bite is Backyard Burgers, where flame-grilled burgers and chicken sandwiches are served up with sides ranging from chili-cheese fries to loaded baked potatoes. Or stop in at La Fuente for traditional Mexican favorites in a casual setting. Queen City residents are also close to one of the best-kept secrets in the state: the Albonée Country Inn & Winery. Offering food and wine in addition to vineyard tours, the winery is set atop a hill overlooking Independence. Those seeking a romantic getaway or a weekend family staycation will find gracious hosts and a relaxing retreat at the winery’s bed-and-breakfast.

If you’re looking for a home in an established neighborhood with plentiful amenities and convenient access to both downtown Independence and KC, you’ll want to check out Queen City. Whether you’re a first-timer or a “not my first rodeo” kind of buyer, Queen City will make you feel like royalty. And there’s no crown required.

Written By

Andrew Spencer

Photography Contributed By

Eric Bowers

Video By

Zack Kojoyian