Nestled on the West bank of the Willamette River, just 12 miles southwest of Salem, is the thriving City of Independence, Oregon. This quaint river city was known as the “Hop Capital of the World” from the late 1890s to the 1940s. It is now the third-largest city in Polk County and the fourth-fastest growing city in the state of Oregon. With family-friendly events and programs happening all year round like summer concerts and movies in the park, heritage festivals, downtown trick-or-treating, craft-making sessions, and the best 4th of July celebration in Oregon, Independence has a distinct sense of place that is grounded in its history, connected to nature, and filled with community spirit.