Amana Colonies

While the Amana Colonies in eastern central Iowa have strong German and Swiss influences in language and architecture, the history here is more than just European. In fact, this town has been designated as a national historic landmark. The Amana Colonies are seven picturesque villages in Eastern Iowa, about 30 minutes from Iowa City. The villages, founded in 1855 by German immigrants fleeing religious persecution, are one of America's oldest communal societies. Until the Great Depression, when societal needs shifted toward privatization, communal-style living thrived in Amana.

The Amana Colonies are still alive and well today, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The Amana Heritage Museum is a great place to start any visit to learn more about the history seen throughout the streets. There are also guided tours led by locals that provide in-depth narration about the heritage all around. The Amana Colonies are also well known for their artisan wares, which are sold throughout the villages. From handcrafted furniture to locally sourced entrees, Amana Colonies culture values handcrafted quality. The Amana Colonies are also known for their celebrations. Winterfest commemorates the snowy season in the Amana Colonies, while Maifest welcomes spring with events. Another popular annual event is the Wurst Festival, which features sausage specials and a Dachshund Derby.