Amana Colonies Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Stepping into the Amana Colonies feels less like a typical road trip and more like a journey into a quieter, more deliberate era. Comprising seven villages in east-central Iowa, this National Historic Landmark district was founded by German Pietists who lived a communal life until 1932. Today, the brick buildings, winding streets, and rolling farmland preserve a history of self-sufficiency and craftsmanship that is rare in modern America.

While the communal way of life has evolved, the spirit of hospitality remains the beating heart of the colonies. Visitors are greeted with the aroma of smoked meats, the sound of clock chimes, and the sight of intricate handcrafted goods. Whether you are here to explore the deep historical roots or simply to indulge in some of the Midwest’s best comfort food, Amana offers a pace of life that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

A Legacy of Communal Living

The Amana Colonies are unique in American history because of their longevity as a communal society. For over 75 years, residents worked assigned jobs, ate in communal kitchens, and shared property. This wasn’t just a social experiment; it was a religious necessity for the Community of True Inspiration. Even after the “Great Change” of 1932, when the community voted to separate church and state and embrace capitalism, the physical layout of the villages remained largely untouched.

Walking through Middle Amana or Homestead, you will notice the lack of kitchens in the original homes and the large, central buildings that once served as dining halls. The architecture tells the story of a people who valued utility and durability, yet created beauty through their renowned craftsmanship in woodworking, textiles, and gardening. It is this authentic, tangible history that earned the colonies their landmark status.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Amana Heritage Museum - Located in Main Amana, this is the best starting point for your visit. It includes three buildings and provides a 20-minute orientation video that explains the complex history of the colonies. Entry is approx $10.

The Communal Kitchen - In Middle Amana, this museum preserves the experience of communal dining. You can walk through the prep areas and dining room, which looks exactly as it did in 1932. It is just 1.5 miles from Main Amana and operates on donation.

Ackerman Winery - As Iowa’s oldest winery, this spot in Main Amana offers tastings of exotic fruit wines like Dandelion and Rhubarb. Tastings run about $10, and it is located right on the main drag.

Amana Furniture & Clock Shop - Watch masters create heirloom-quality pieces. The viewing gallery is free, and the showroom features stunning grandfather clocks and walnut furniture. Located on the edge of Main Amana.

Planning Your Visit

The Amana Colonies are located just minutes off Interstate 80, making them easily accessible. While the villages are close together, mostly within a 3 to 4-mile radius, they are not all connected by sidewalks, so a vehicle is necessary to see them all. Main Amana is the commercial hub with the most shops and restaurants, while the other villages offer a quieter look at residential life.

Be aware that Amana runs on a slightly more relaxed schedule than big cities. most businesses open at 10:00 AM and close promptly at 5:00 PM, even on weekends. If you plan to have dinner, make reservations, especially during peak fall weekends, as the popular family-style restaurants fill up quickly. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the best way to explore Main Amana is on foot.

The Amana Colonies offer a genuine escape from the rush of modern life. Whether you are sipping a dark lager by a fireplace in winter or dancing around a Maypole in spring, you will leave with a full stomach and a deeper appreciation for this unique chapter of American heritage.