Amana Colonies

Looks like a Disney’s theme park

We only spent a day here, but I wish we had had more time. Even during Covid and the off season there were plenty of shops open and the food was good. Obviously I would have preferred to experience a tour or one of the events, but it is an intriguing place with an abundance of old houses and structures that never suffered fire damage. It's actually a collection of villages where you can explore shops, eateries, workshops of all sorts of traditional trades, and learn about their history. The antique stores in particular had some interesting wares if you're into that. I also really loved Hotel Millwright, which did an amazing job melding antique and modern design in all of their work.

A definite destination location but fun even if you can only spend one day. AND...you can have just as much fun and not spend any money (though it is a challenge). So many fascinating shops and goodies to eat. Beautiful place to stay and ride bicycles around too. A trip worth repeating. Beautiful flower pots and interesting yard ornaments full of flowers too.

Love the Amana but meal price have gone up$$$ 2 adults 1 child $72 w no dessert ...Food was just warm.I love going but we going to stop.Just not worth it. Great service tho. Sorry

The Amana Colonies are made up of 7 villages and are a wonderful place to visit that is full of old world charm and friendly people. Main Amana is where most of the shops and restaurants are to be found though we also enjoyed driving through and seeing the other villages where there are a few scattered shops. In main Amana everything is walkable and public parking is free. The village is beautifully clean and serene. The shops are full of handmade goods as well as antiques and a smaller number of items that are more mass produced. They host regular festivals throughout the year that are always a good time. There is also a brewery and a handful of wine shops. We have visited several times and will definitely return. Fair warning that during these times of Covid-19, mask wearing is taken lightly here, with some places requiring them indoors and some not mentioning it at all. Based on personal observations I'd say a little more than half the people in the village and shops were wearing masks.