Attractions and Places To See around Independence - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Independence include historical sites and natural features. The area offers insights into significant historical events and provides opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can find a variety of points of interest, from historical monuments to challenging climbs.
Best attractions and places to see around Independence
- The most popular attractions is Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, Manzanar ⛩️, a historical site that was created during the incarceration period at the Manzanar concentration camp. This…
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Manzanar National Historic Site Museum hangar ℹ️
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, Manzanar ⛩️
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Onion Valley Road
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Widely regarded as one of California's most demanding ascents, …
Tip by
Manzanar WWII Japanese Concentration Camp
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Concentration camp barracks, Manzanar 💀
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Independence.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This is a brutally challenging climb! Starting at 4,500 feet in one of the deepest U.S. valleys, surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks. Widely regarded as one of California's most demanding ascents, this climb rewards your effort with panoramas of Owens Valley and the Eastern Sierras. The remote location is justified by the ride's intensity. No water, and changing weather conditions are common here.
0
0
The Manzanar War Relocation Center was one of ten concentration camps where the U.S. government incarcerated Japanese-American citizens during World War II. The site is now run by the National Park Service to provide an opportunity to learn about the experience of those who were incarcerated.
0
0
Japanese Americans from California were interred here for 5 years during the second World War. Powerful museum, good info in the visitor center.
1
0
Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, led the United States into World War II. It radically changed the lives of 120,000 men, women, and children of Japanese ancestry living in the United States. The attack intensified racial prejudices. Without due process, the government gave everyone of Japanese ancestry living on the West coast only days to decide what to do with their houses, farms, businesses, and other possessions before they were relocated.
0
0
On May 16, 1942, Matsunosuke Murakami, 62, became the first of 150 men, women, and children to die in camp. He and 14 others, most infants and older men without families, were laid to rest in the Manzanar cemetery. The cemetery was outside the barbed wire fence. While some deceased were sent to hometown cemeteries, most were cremated. Their ashes were held in camp until their families left Manzanar. Six burials remain today.
4
1
After the end of WW II the american government quickly dismantled the concentration camps, but some fragments, foundations, and secret photos survived, from which the barrack has been reconstructed.
1
1
Manzanar is best known as the site of one of ten American concentration camps, where more than 120,000 Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II from December 1942 to 1945. An old airport hangar has been converted to a state of the art visitor center and museum, with excellent details, original documents, and film presentations. https://www.nps.gov/manz/index.htm
1
0
The incarcerated American decendents of Japanese immigrants had to create their own cemetery during the 4 year period at the Manzanar concentration camp.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Independence?
Independence is rich in history, particularly regarding the Japanese-American experience during World War II. You can visit the Manzanar WWII Japanese Concentration Camp to learn about the incarceration of Japanese-American citizens. The Manzanar National Historic Site Museum hangar offers excellent details, original documents, and film presentations. You can also see the Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, Manzanar, which commemorates those who died in the camp.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Independence area?
Yes, several historical sites around Independence are considered family-friendly. The Manzanar WWII Japanese Concentration Camp and the Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, Manzanar offer educational experiences suitable for families. Additionally, the reconstructed Concentration camp barracks, Manzanar provides a tangible glimpse into the past.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Independence?
For those seeking a challenge, Onion Valley Road offers a brutally challenging climb with panoramas of Owens Valley and the Eastern Sierras. While the immediate area of the historical sites is focused on remembrance, the broader region provides opportunities for outdoor exploration.
What is the significance of Manzanar in the Independence area?
Manzanar is best known as the site of one of ten American concentration camps where over 120,000 Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II. The Manzanar WWII Japanese Concentration Camp and its associated sites, like the Manzanar National Historic Site Museum hangar, serve as a powerful reminder of this period in history.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic panoramas around Independence?
Absolutely. The Onion Valley Road, despite being a challenging climb, rewards visitors with stunning panoramas of Owens Valley and the Eastern Sierras. It's a highly recommended spot for breathtaking views.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Independence?
Yes, the Manzanar National Historic Site Museum hangar is wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive experience for all visitors to learn about the history of the concentration camp.
What can I expect to see at the Manzanar National Historic Site?
At the Manzanar National Historic Site, you can explore the museum hangar with detailed exhibits and film presentations. You'll also find reconstructed concentration camp barracks and the Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, offering a comprehensive look at the site's history.
What is the difficulty level of Onion Valley Road?
The Onion Valley Road is widely regarded as one of California's most demanding ascents. It's a brutally challenging climb, starting at 4,500 feet and surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks, making it suitable for experienced cyclists or hikers seeking a strenuous workout.
What is the significance of the cemetery at Manzanar?
The Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, Manzanar is a solemn site where incarcerated Japanese-American descendants created their own cemetery during their time at the Manzanar concentration camp. It holds the graves of 6 individuals and commemorates over 150 who died there, serving as a poignant memorial to those who suffered.
Are there any unique historical monuments in the Independence area?
Yes, the Cemetery and Japanese Inmate Memorial, Manzanar is a unique monument created by the incarcerated individuals themselves. It stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and remembrance from a challenging period in history.
What kind of information can I find at the Manzanar National Historic Site Museum?
The Manzanar National Historic Site Museum hangar provides extensive information about the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. You'll find excellent details, original documents, and film presentations that explain the historical context and personal stories from that era.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
