The Amana Colonies comprise six villages: Amana, East Amana, West Amana, South Amana, High Amana, and Middle Amana. Among these, the Village of Amana attracts the most visitors due to its numerous renowned shops. A trip to the Amanas is sure to captivate you, where craftsmanship, German heritage, and community spirit are cherished.
Favorite Shops and Restaurants in the Amana Colonies:
The Amana Woolen Mill
The Amana Woolen Mill is my favorite shop in the Village of Amana. The mill has been operating for over 150 years and is now Iowa's only surviving textile mill. The business has gained national recognition over the years for its quality craftsmanship and products. The wool blankets, purses, clothing, and goods are true works of art. Visitors may see the mill in action and shop at the store. During festivals, artisans demonstrate textile arts including spinning and weaving on a loom.
The Amana Furniture and Clock Shop
The Amana Furniture and Clock Shop also holds a distinct reputation for quality American-made furniture. The store boasts a wide collection of beautiful furniture pieces and clocks. The cuckoo clocks are beloved by children. During festivals, visitors have the opportunity to take guided tours of the shop to learn how the furniture is made from start to finish. This free tour is a highlight of any visit to Amana.
Schanz Furniture / Brooms & Baskets
The Schanz Furniture / Brooms & Baskets shop in South Amana is a wonderful spot to purchase handcrafted brooms, baskets, and furniture - including rocking chairs. Broom makers and basket makers demonstrate their craft on site.
More Favorite Shops:
Amana General Store in the village of Amana is one of the largest shops in the colonies. Selling boutique items, Christmas decorations, candles, food, and souvenirs, this shop truly has something for everyone.
High Amana General Store located in the village of High Amana, this shop sells souvenirs and practical items in a quaint 1857 building that served as the community's general store for over a century.
Art Galleries, clothing shops, antiques, and collectibles can also be found at Amana's shops.
Favorite Restaurants & Eateries:
The Ronneberg Restaurant in the Village of Amana is famous for their authentic German menu and beautiful atmosphere. The restaurant opened in 1950 and may be the most popular eatery in the villages. Their schnitzel sandwich, Reuben, and pork tenderloin are favorites.
The Ox Yoke Inn in the Village of Amana is another historical landmark and favorite serving American and German faire.
Taverne at Middle Amana serves pizzas, apps, and beer.
The Chocolate Haus offers a wide selection of fudge and hand-crafted chocolates to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ackerman Winery is the oldest winery in Iowa, having won awards for both traditional grape as well as fruit wines.
Amana Meat Shop & Smokehouse has been operating since 1865. This is the perfect place to stock up on favorites for the charcuterie board.
The Amana Colonies Annual Festivals:
Celebrate spring with Maifest, summer with Wurst Fest, fall with Oktoberfest, Christmas with Tannenbaum Forest, and winter with Winterfest in the Amanas.
Tannenbaum Forest & Prelude to Christmas
Tannenbaum Forest is an annual Christmas tradition in the Amana colonies when visitors have the opportunity to explore a gallery of Christmas trees on weekends from Thanksgiving to Christmas. The Amana Colonies Prelude to Christmas is held the first weekend of December, as shops are filled with holiday goods, visitors can enjoy artisan demonstrations, the annual cookie walk, visits with Santa Claus, and the traditional Christmas tree lighting.
Maifest at the Amana Colonies
Maifest is held annually on the first weekend of May. Watch the famous Maipole dancers, enjoy a parade, and feast on German food including brats, kraut, and schnitzel. This German holiday celebrates spring and the villages come alive with flowers, dancing, music, and fun.
Most Frequently Asked Question: Are the Amana colonies an Amish community?
No, the Amish and the Amanas are two different groups. Both are German in origin, both sought religious freedom in America, and the Kolona Amish community is about an hour from the Amana colonies. However, the Amish originated from the European Anabaptists of the 1500s and the Amanas broke off from the Lutheran church in the 1700s. The Amana colonies of Iowa were founded on principles of communal living and spiritual beliefs, holding many German traditions dear. The Amana people have always welcomed new technology, which you will see on the farms, in the woodworking shop, in the woolen mill, etc. And. the Amana people wear modern attire. Visitors to the Amana colonies will note the German influence in the food, festivals, and traditions of the community. Learn more about the history of the Amana colonies here.
The Amana Colonies' 4 Most Adorable VRBO Rentals
Indulge in the charming shops and residences nestled in the heart of the Amana Colonies. Below, you'll find our handpicked selection of delightful VRBO lodging options:
The Treehouse is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway in the woods. This modern treehouse features 1 bedroom, 0.5 bathroom and sleeps 4. Overlooking a creek and scenic hills, this treehouse is nestled amongst lavender fields and wildlife. Average rate: $149/night. Book Treehouse at Lavender Farm in Amana, Iowa.
Treehouse Amenities
Parking available
Washer
Pet friendly
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
Kitchen with stovetop
Smart TV
The Prairie Retreat is ideal for groups visiting the Amana Colonies. This large home features 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps 15. Enjoy 40 private acres of Iowa’s natural landscape with walking trails for hiking, flower picking, or even cross-country skiing in the snow. Average rate: $342/night. Book Prairie Retreat in Amana, Iowa.
Prairie Retreat Amenities:
Toys/Games
Kitchen with microwave
Living/Dining area
Parking available
Pet friendly
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
Toys/ Games/ Books
This modern farmhouse features 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and sleeps 6. Situated on 22 acres in the Amana Colonies, visitors enjoy watching the farm animals including mini donkeys, a mini horse, Alpacas, A llama, kune kune pigs, baby doll sheep, goats, chickens and free ranging peacocks. Just 4 miles from main Amana with shops, restaurants and bars this location is convenient for your Amana getaway. Average rate: $250/night. Book Modern Farmhouse.
Modern Farmhouse Amenities:
Kitchen with microwave
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
Smoke-free property
This cute home features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and sleeps 4. Just 20-miles from Amana, this kid-friendly home is comfortable and lovely for your Iowa getaway. The spacious yard, firepit, and garden are lovely. Average rate: $118/night. Book Home in Fairfax.
Fairfax Home Amenities:
Toys/Games
Kitchen with microwave
Tennis court
Parking available
Pet friendly
Washer
Air conditioning
Dryer
Outdoor Space
Free WiFi
Smart Tv
Fire Pit
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