Amana Colonies Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Amana Colonies, Iowa with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, lodging options, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Amana Colonies

Nestled in Eastern Iowa, in the heart of America’s Midwest, lies the historic town of Amana Colonies. Amana Colonies is a cluster of seven villages, founded by German settlers in the 1850s. These villages have been preserved for their cultural and historic significance, giving visitors a glimpse of the past.

The town has become a popular destination for travelers, with its quaint architecture, delightful markets, unique shops, and delicious cuisine. The historic sites, along with outdoor recreation offerings, make Amana Colonies the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Amana Colonies

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Amana Heritage Society Museum: showcasing the history and culture of Amana colonies through artifacts, exhibits, and guided tours.
  • Amana Woolen Mill: a historic mill dating back to 1857, a must-visit place for those interested in the town’s industrial history.
  • High Amana General Store: a cultural symbol of Amana people, a unique place where you can buy German delicacies, antic items, clothes, hats, and many more rare finds.

Natural Attractions of Amana Colonies: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Iowa River Corridor Trail: a beautiful 6-mile trail, great for hiking, biking, and nature walks. The trail features scenic views of the Iowa River and diverse wildlife.
  • Lily Lake: a serene lake surrounded by lush trees and marshes, perfect for kayaking, bird-watching, or fishing.
  • Tannenbaum Forest: a 20-acre forest that becomes an enchanted wonderland during the holiday season, an excellent choice for families with kids to experience the holiday magic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amana Colonies

Amana Colonies offers numerous hiking and biking routes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers who love adventure and nature. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Amana Colonies Nature Trail: a paved trail spanning over six miles and an ideal place for biking, hiking, or walking through the charming scenery.
  • Amana Colonies RV Park Trail: a short trail leading through the scenic and natural preserve for nature lovers.
  • Lily Lake Trail: a trail that encircles the lake, with beautiful views of wildlife, perfect for a relaxing nature walk.

Best Things to Do in Amana Colonies: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting at Ackerman Winery: The winery is home to some of Iowa’s best wines. Visitors can enjoy tasting some of the region’s finest wines here.
  • Take a Guided Tour or Ghost Tour: These tours will give you a glimpse of the region’s history, and the ghost tour is a thrilling experience for those who enjoy the eerie.
  • Attend Theatre Performances at Amana Colonies: A great entertainment option for all ages, the theater features live performances every weekend.

Week-Long Itinerary for Amana Colonies

Day 1 - Arrive and Check-in, Explore Amana Heritage Society Museum, and Historic village charm Day 2 - Amana Woolen Mill and Hiking on Iowa River Corridor Trail. Day 3 - Visit High Amana General Store and Take a Tour Through Amana Colonies villages. Day 4 - Go Shopping in Amana Colonies, buy local crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy the Wine Tasting at Ackerman Winery. Day 5 - Outdoor Activities, explore Tannenbaum Forest and Lily Lake. Day 6 - Attend Theatre Performances at Amana Colonies. Day 7 - Check-out and Depart.

Food and Drink Scene of Amana Colonies

Must-Try Dishes

  • German Potato Salad: A traditional German dish made from boiled potatoes and bacon, seasoned with vinegar and spices.
  • Bierocks: A savory roll filled with ground beef, onions, and cabbage.
  • Schnitzel Sandwich: A breaded and fried pork sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato, and creamy German Mustard.

Local Beverages

  • Sarsaparilla: a non-alcoholic beverage with an earthy and sweet taste, considered an Amana Colony staple.
  • Ackerman Winery Wine: A vineyard tucked away in the Amana Colonies, offering a multitude of wine options for every palate.

Where to Stay in Amana Colonies: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Zuber’s Homestead Hotel: A budget-friendly, historic accommodation perfect for travelers who prefer authentic details and an old-world ambiance.
  • Die Heimat Country Inn: A historic bed and breakfast with homemade breakfasts and luxurious amenities, perfect for a relaxing escape.
  • The Ronneburg Restaurant and Hotel: An authentic, charming German-style accommodation for travelers who crave traditional Amana Colonies hospitality.

What to Buy in Amana Colonies: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Amana Woolen Mill Products: buy blankets, apparel and rugs
  • Amana General Store Honey and Jam: Delicate bees honey with mouth-watering flavors, along with homemade jam.
  • Antique Collectibles and Furniture: Antique furniture, lamps, and household items can be found at Village Antique Galler ia shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Amana Colonies

Amana Colonies is a destination that has been hailed for its cultural touchpoints. The customs and traditions of the German settlers are still alive and thriving in this town. Amana Colony people are known for their hospitality, hard-working ethics, and impressive craftsmanship.

Best Time to Visit Amana Colonies

The best time to visit Amana Colonies is between April to October. During this period, the weather is warm, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and walks are perfect to do. From Christmas through February, Tannenbaum Forest and the Midwest Mushroom Festivals flourish this area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amana Colonies

Do:

  • Do visit the Museums and Historical places.
  • Do try local cuisine and wines while exploring the city.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for walking and outdoor activities.
  • Do take the guided tours for the ghost tour and city tours.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural or historical treasures of the town.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions, be respectful of the German background of the people.

Safety and Health

Safety in Amana Colonies

Amana Colonies is generally safe for tourists to visit. Walking around town and enjoying the outdoors is considered safe.

Health in Amana Colonies

Tourists do not need any special vaccinations to travel to Amana Colonies. It is always good to have travel insurance if emergency medical assistance is needed during the trip.

Getting to Amana Colonies: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Amana Colonies

  • Eastern Iowa Airport
  • The Des Moines International Airport

Bus Stations Near Amana Colonies

  • The Greyhound Bus Station in Coralville is the nearest bus station.

Other Options

Hiring a car or using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is one of the most convenient options for travelers to move around inside Amana Colonies and nearby areas.

How to Get Around in Amana Colonies

Renting a bike, hiring a car, or using rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft is the best way to explore the town of Amana Colonies. The downtown area of Amana Colonies is easily walkable, and the hike/bike trails are perfect for physically active travelers.

Where to Go Next from Amana Colonies: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cedar Rapids, Iowa: A city located an hour away from Amana Colonies, known for its pristine gardens, museums, and unique art installations.
  • Iowa City, Iowa: Just 30 minutes away from Amana Colonies, Iowa City is a city with amazing architecture, local eateries, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Amana Colonies is an enchanting destination that combines rich cultural heritage with natural beauty. From outdoor adventures to authentic local cuisine, hiking to biking, and everything in between, this town remains a favorite destination for visitors around the USA. Visitors can look forward to experiencing an authentic taste of German culture and customs while exploring the charm and beauty of Amana Colonies.