Established by German Pietists in 1850, the Amana Colonies are situated in east-central Iowa and comprise seven villages. The name Amana for this group of settlements means ‘to remain faithful’. Nowadays, this location is a major tourist spot renowned mostly for its craft shops such as woodworking shops and wine shops, and for its exquisite restaurants. The colonies are currently registered as a National Historic Landmark.
Heritage tourism has become an important economic factor for the Amana region, and inevitably pizza parlors and golf courses can now be found among churches. Several local nonprofit organizations endeavor to conserve Amana’s historical, natural and built environment. These efforts become obvious when visiting some of the various shops and facilities including the Powder House, Amana Woolen Mill, Amana Furniture Shop, or the recycled food plant.
Amana’s surrounding area features a number of draws worthwhile seeing; Cedar Rapids offers a range of historical, cultural and ethnic options like museums and theater; Iowa City and Coralville present the University of Iowa, while downtown Iowa City provides art, shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences; Williamsburg with its brick paved streets, or the Pioneer Heritage Museum in Marengo let you pleasantly step back in time.
Highlights
Museum of the Amana Heritage: housed in four separate locations, this museum presents the history, culture and beliefs of the Amana Colonies settlers.
Mini-Americana Barn Museum: displays a collection of miniature buildings which are characteristic of late 19th century Iowa and Amana villages and farms.
Krauss Furniture Shop: all made on the site, the shop features custom-made furniture in oak, walnut and cherry as well as clocks.
Amana Woolen Mill: established in 1857, Iowa’s only textile mill is still in operation and produces 100 percent wool and cotton blankets using the machinery and skills from the Germans.
The Amana Colonies RV Park & Event Center: every year, plentiful activities take place at this event facility sited near the beautiful Lily Lake including music festivals, craft shows and events for pet lovers.
Homestead: just three miles from town, this less commercialized getaway offers a centuries-old walking trail first trodden by Indians.