Searching for a peaceful escape with old-world charm? Head to Amana, Iowa! Nestled in Iowa’s heartland, the Amana Colonies offer historic villages, traditional German food, handcrafted goods, and a uniquely preserved culture. Whether you're sipping locally made wine, touring 19th-century buildings, or enjoying a festival, Amana invites you to slow down and savor life.
Amana, IA Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Tour the Amana Heritage Museum – Learn about the communal lifestyle and unique German heritage of the Amana Colonies.
- For Foodies: Enjoy traditional German fare – Feast on schnitzel, sauerbraten, and strudel at family-style restaurants.
- For Shoppers: Browse handmade crafts and local shops – From woolen mills to woodworking, find one-of-a-kind artisan goods.
- For Wine & Beer Lovers: Visit the Ackerman Winery and Millstream Brewing Co. – Sample Iowa-made wines and German-style craft beers.
- For Art & Culture Fans: Explore the Amana Arts Guild and local galleries – Discover handcrafted pottery, textiles, and artwork rooted in tradition.
Best Time to Visit Amana, IA
The best time to visit Amana is from spring through fall (April–October). Spring and summer bring blooming gardens and festivals, while autumn offers crisp air and colorful foliage. Winter is quieter but cozy, especially during holiday events like Prelude to Christmas.
How to Get to Amana, IA
- If you are traveling by car: Amana is located just off US-151, about 25 minutes southwest of Cedar Rapids and 30 minutes from Iowa City.
- By Plane: Fly into The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids and drive to Amana.
- By Bus: Limited intercity bus service is available to nearby towns; a car is recommended for convenience.
Where to Stay in Amana, IA
- Recommended for Couples: Zuber’s Homestead Hotel – A quaint, country-style inn with individually themed rooms and warm hospitality.
- For Families: Hotel Millwright – A modern boutique hotel inside a historic woolen mill with cozy accommodations and a central location.
- For a Rustic Retreat: Die Heimat Country Inn – Quiet bed & breakfast with charming rooms and hearty breakfasts in Homestead village.
Best Things to Do in Amana, IA
1. Amana Colonies National Historic Landmark
Walk through preserved villages and explore German heritage on a peaceful, affordable cultural trip.
The Amana Colonies National Historic Landmark is collectively made up of the seven villages representing the Amana Colonies, which were founded back in 1855 by German immigrants. Visitors can taste locally produced beers and wines, dine on family-style cooking, and purchase clocks, furniture, handwoven baskets, and antiques among many other activities within the Amana Colonies. The seven Amana Colonies consist of Homestead, West Amana, South Amana, Middle Amana, High Amana, East Amana, and Amana. The Amana Colony remained almost completely self-sufficient with its local economy for eighty years thanks to their farming and specialized crafting occupations they brought from Europe.
622 46th Ave, Amana, IA 52203
2. White Cross Cellars
Sip Iowa wines and enjoy a romantic tasting in a quiet, historic setting.
White Cross Cellars, situated in historic Amana, takes a new approach to the wine industry of the Amana Colonies in Iowa. While the area has been famous for its fruit wines for quite a long time, White Cross has a more traditional approach to Amana wines, offering award-winning wines in both Midwestern varieties and classic wine grapes in the California and European styles. The specialities at White Cross Cellars are whites reminiscent of traditional French and German styles, as well as red dinner wines well suited for Italian and beef dishes. These wines are available in limited quantities.
755 48th Ave, Amana, IA 52203, Phone: 319-622-3233
Where to Eat in Amana, IA
3. Ox Yoke Inn
Savor hearty German dishes and experience traditional hospitality on a family-friendly food outing.
The Ox Yoke Inn is famous for serving traditional meals that are prepared using timeless American and Old World German recipes that have been passed down from one generation to another. Founded by Lina and William Lina Leichsenring, the Leichsenring family has been serving hearty, freshly made meals with breads, potatoes, vegetables, and salads in a family-style setting since the year 1940. This locally owned and operated restaurant also offers family-style breakfasts on the weekends and homemade desserts. In addition to the main dining area, the Ox Yoke Inn has a seasonal Biergarten, as well as a gift shop.
4420 220th Trail, Amana, IA 52203, Phone: 319-622-3441
4. Millstream Brewing Company
Taste craft beers and relax in the beer garden on a fun weekend stop.
The Millstream Brewing Company is the oldest operating brewery in the state, as well as one of the country’s oldest operating breweries. The Millstream Brau Haus, a “German Bierhalle,” was opened in Amana, Iowa in 2016. In addition to its wide selection of beers, the Millstream Brewing Company serves German-inspired fare and is well known for its unique history, along with the heritage that’s poured into every pint of beer. The brewery also hosts a number of festivals and special events throughout the year and invites travelers and locals alike to stop by and try their beers.
835 48th Ave, Amana, IA 52203, Phone: 319-622-3672
If you are interested in local events:
- For Holiday Cheer: Prelude to Christmas (December) – Lights, markets, caroling, and seasonal treats in a festive village atmosphere.
- For Culture Seekers: Maifest (May) – Celebrate spring with German dancing, parades, and live music.
- For Food & Fun: Oktoberfest (October) – Traditional beer, bratwurst, polka music, and family-friendly games draw thousands each fall.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Amana, IA:
- For Nature Lovers: Lake Macbride State Park (30 min) – Hike, swim, or paddle on a quiet lake near Coralville and Solon.
- For History Buffs: Iowa City (30 min) – Tour the Old Capitol Museum and University of Iowa campus, with great shopping and dining.
- For Art & Culture: Cedar Rapids (25 min) – Visit the National Czech & Slovak Museum, Brucemore Mansion, and NewBo City Market.
- For Foodies: Kalona (30 min) – Explore Amish country, visit cheese shops, bakeries, and the Kalona Historical Village.
- For Hikers: Palisades-Kepler State Park (25 min) – Wooded trails, bluffs, and river views along the Cedar River.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: What is Amana, Iowa known for?
- A: Amana, Iowa, also known as one of the villages of the Amana Colonies, offers a wide assortment of things to do, including exploring its unique history.
- Q: What is a key historical site in Amana?
- A: One of the best stops in Amana is the Amana Colonies National Historic Landmark, showcasing its rich history.
- Q: What options are available for wine and beer lovers in Amana?
- A: Wine and beer lovers can sample local products at places like the Ackerman Winery, White Cross Cellars, and Millstream Brewing Company.
- Q: What entertainment is available in Amana?
- A: Theatergoers can catch a show at the Old Creamery Theatre while visiting the Amana Colonies.
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