Experience the Delights of the Amana Colonies, Iowa

The Amana Colonies on the Iowa Plains is one of America's longest lived communal societies and is a National Historic Landmark. Having fled Germany because of persecution and economic depression this religious group called Pietism arrived in Iowa in 1855.

The Amana Colonies are made up of seven villages and although the residents do not embrace a communal way of life and haven't since 1932 they are a thriving community that was founded by a religious faith and community spirit.

This wonderful Historic Landmark welcomes hundreds and thousands of visitors each year and every visitor will enjoy being somewhere where the place is cherished and hospitality is a way of life. The streets are reminiscent of yesteryear with their brick, stone and clapboards homes, flower and vegetable gardens, lanterns and walkways.

The community is vibrant and here you can really experience the Amana Colonies past, present and future.

One of my favorite places to stop is the Millstream Brewing Co., Amana. The Millstream Brewing Company is the oldest microbrewery in Iowa and offers award winning premium beers and the famous Old Time Root Beer. Needless to say you are able to sample the wonderful offerings at this brewery in their hospitality room, my favorite being the Windmill Wheat Beer. Open daily you can view the brewing and bottling processes before enjoying a beer or two in the Biergarten.

Another favorite of mine is the Heritage Wine, Cheese and Jelly Haus, Amana and not just because I can sample their wares..... although of course I do with enthusiasm. Here you will find the award winning Ackerman Wines, huge varieties of imported and domestic cheeses. Wine and cheese tasting, what could be better? You will also find hundreds of different jellies and unique food items. The heritage Wine, Cheese and Jelly Haus specialize in baskets and gift boxes.

For a mid-morning or afternoon snack I can highly recommend the Amana Stone Hearth Bakery, Amana. The delicious smell of freshly baked bread and goodies hits you the moment you open the door. Of course as a bakery you can purchase your goodies and retire to wherever or sit and enjoy them with a beverage in the quaint German Loft. Of course you can also purchase lunch items such as pies and sandwiches but for me a visit to the Amana Stone Hearth Bakery has to be to indulge in some wonderfully naughty pastries, cakes or cookies whilst enjoying the German music being played in the background.

There are a variety of restaurants to choose from it really is a case of take your pick. For a fantastic family style breakfast I would suggest trying the Colony Inn restaurant, Amana. I haven't indulged in lunch or dinner here but if they are anything like breakfast it can only be plentiful and tasteful.

I know so far I have focused on places to eat or drink but I do do other shopping as well. The High Amana General Store, High Amana has changed little since it first opened its doors in 1858 and smells invitingly of handmade soap and kerosene lanterns. The shelves are stocked with merchandise and dry goods that are a reminder of bygone days.

I have just given a little taste (there I go again) of what the Amana Colonies in Iowa have to offer but they really are worth a visit. Throughout the year there are various festivals such as willow weaving weekend, the Millstream bottling party, art night and of course Oktoberfest and many others so I would strongly suggest checking out their website at www.AmanaColonies.com.

Source - Authors own travels