Independence
Buchanan County | Map It
Driftless Area
Must Do’s
Discover the rich history and architecture of Cedar Rock State Park, where visitors can step
back in time with a tour of the Walter House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright while enjoying
scenic hiking trails and beautiful river views. History lovers can also explore Heartland Acres
Agribition Center, The Independence Depot, Captain D. S. Lee Mansion, and Wapsi Mill to
experience Independence’s unique past. While in town, stroll through Historic Downtown
Independence and shop local favorites like The Brick Kitchen, S&K Collectibles, and Fabulous
Fridays.
Outdoor Adventures & Exciting Eateries
Take a drive through the countryside surrounding Independence and explore more than 50
Amish-owned stores featuring bakeries, greenhouses, furniture shops, discount grocery stores,
and handmade goods. Outdoor enthusiasts can spend the day on the Wapsipinicon River
kayaking, boating, swimming, or fishing. After your adventure, enjoy Independence’s growing
food and coffee scene with fresh pastries from Gedney Bakery, handcrafted drinks at Em's
Coffee Co., or a locally brewed beer at Allerton Brewing Company. Visitors can also enjoy a
hearty homestyle breakfast at Arianna's or Buttermilk Cafe.
Community Highlights
Every year on the third Saturday in August, visitors can experience Independence’s
Underground Tour, where guides lead guests through the hidden underground city built beneath
downtown in the 1880s.
During the summer, Independence also comes alive with its annual Celebrate America
festivities on July 3rd and 4th, featuring a parade, live entertainment, community activities, and
one of the area’s best fireworks displays
Discover the rich history and architecture of Cedar Rock State Park, where visitors can step
back in time with a tour of the Walter House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright while enjoying
scenic hiking trails and beautiful river views. History lovers can also explore Heartland Acres
Agribition Center, The Independence Depot, Captain D. S. Lee Mansion, and Wapsi Mill to
experience Independence’s unique past. While in town, stroll through Historic Downtown
Independence and shop local favorites like The Brick Kitchen, S&K Collectibles, and Fabulous
Fridays.
Outdoor Adventures & Exciting Eateries
Take a drive through the countryside surrounding Independence and explore more than 50
Amish-owned stores featuring bakeries, greenhouses, furniture shops, discount grocery stores,
and handmade goods. Outdoor enthusiasts can spend the day on the Wapsipinicon River
kayaking, boating, swimming, or fishing. After your adventure, enjoy Independence’s growing
food and coffee scene with fresh pastries from Gedney Bakery, handcrafted drinks at Em's
Coffee Co., or a locally brewed beer at Allerton Brewing Company. Visitors can also enjoy a
hearty homestyle breakfast at Arianna's or Buttermilk Cafe.
Community Highlights
Every year on the third Saturday in August, visitors can experience Independence’s
Underground Tour, where guides lead guests through the hidden underground city built beneath
downtown in the 1880s.
During the summer, Independence also comes alive with its annual Celebrate America
festivities on July 3rd and 4th, featuring a parade, live entertainment, community activities, and
one of the area’s best fireworks displays
