Welcome Iowa’s charming communities, the Amana Colonies, where history, culture, and local craftsmanship come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, there’s so much to explore. Let’s dive in!
Start your journey at the Amana Heritage Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of these unique colonies and get a sneak peek at some of the stunning locally-made creations you’ll find throughout the community.
Main Street in the Amanas is like stepping into a Hallmark movie, especially during the holidays. With so much to see and do, you’ll definitely want more than a day to take it all in.
Fireside Winery is a personal favorite. Not only can you sample delicious wines like Glow and Brianna, but you’ll also find a variety of specialty foods, from meats and cheeses to jams and jellies. If you love entertaining, this is the place for unique kitchen essentials, wine accessories, fun aprons, and serving platters.
Another must-visit is Ackerman Winery, the oldest operating winery in Iowa. Known for their classic fruit wines since 1956, favorites include cranberry and plum. After a tasting, explore their selection of wine racks, glasses, and unique home décor. Be sure to check out more award-winning wines at White Cross Cellars and Village Winery.
The General Store is a treasure trove of local and international finds. Built in 1858, this historic landmark offers everything from specialty foods and snacks to Amana-branded clothing and home décor. Downstairs, the Amana Coffee & Tea Company features flavored whole-bean coffees and loose-leaf teas. Don’t miss the International Christmas Market—a winter wonderland open year-round, filled with ornaments and décor from around the world.
For lunch, we chose the Ox Yoke Inn, an Amana tradition famous for its family-style American and German food. The homemade desserts are impossible to resist. Other great dining options include the Ronneberg Restaurant, serving similar classic dishes and Millstream Brau Haus for German-style bar food like pretzels paired with local beers.
After lunch, we visited the historic Amana Woolen Mill, Iowa’s only remaining woolen mill. Since the 1850s, their beautiful, handcrafted products have gained national recognition for quality. You can even watch the looms in action! Their blankets, towels, and scarves make perfect gifts.
The Amana Furniture and Clock Shop showcases timeless, handcrafted furniture made in the colonies since the 1850s. The store also features a workshop viewing gallery where you can watch artisans at work.
For unique shopping, check out the Painted Cupboard for antiques and collectibles, Amazing Grace for handmade soaps and lotions, and the Creative Colony for gifts handcrafted by Iowans. The Little Red Wagon is perfect for kids, offering personalized gifts, toys, and puzzles. Don’t miss Yana’s Clothing and The Clothes Encounter for women’s fashion and accessories.
A sweet treat always tops off the flavor of a trip, so we stopped at the Chocolate Haus. With homemade chocolates, specialty candies, and their famous fudge, we think it’s a little slice of heaven.
There are so many other great local shops and bakeries in the Amanas; I wish we had time to visit them all. After a day of exploring, relax at Millstream Brewing Co, Iowa’s first microbrewery, and enjoy one of their award-winning brews.
When it’s time to unwind, stay at a cozy bed and breakfast or the stunning Hotel Millwright. This beautifully renovated woolen mill now features modern accommodations, a restaurant, bars, and a conference center.
Thank you for exploring the Amana Colonies with us. We hope you enjoyed the journey as much as we did. I can’t wait to come back. Stay tuned for our next adventure off the beaten path in Iowa!
Check out our Off the Beaten Path in the Amana Colonies vlog by clicking here!
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