Amana Colonies
The religion of the Amana natives, the Community of True Inspiration, is based on belief in divine revelation through werkzeuge—inspired prophets. Its roots date from the mysticist and pietist movements of 16th- and 17th-century Europe.
The first houses in Amana were large but without kitchens or dining areas—community meals were prepared and eaten in central kitchen houses. The cooking in the colonies still reflects a German heritage.
From a workshop where beverage coolers were made, Amana Refrigeration Inc., now owned by Whirlpool Corp., has grown into a manufacturer and international marketer of kitchen appliances and heating and cooling systems. Furniture, meats and woolens are the colonies' other notable products.
If you're looking for fun things to do with friends during your vacation, see demonstrations at the artisan galleries and shops throughout the colonies. Traditional brooms are made using a kicker winding machine at The Broom & Basket Shop in West Amana, which also offers basketry and woodworking. Inside the shop an 11-foot-tall walnut rocking chair weighing 670 pounds beckons photographers; the chair was made at a South Amana furniture shop. A viewing gallery overlooks the workshop area of Amana Furniture and Clock Shop in Amana.
Wineriesoperate in Amana and are generally open daily 10-5; phone the convention and visitors bureau for more information.
Summer hikers and bikers will find fun places to go along the 3.1-mile hard-surface Kolonieweg Recreational Trail between Amana and Middle Amana. In late July and early August the 160 acres of Lily Lake in Middle Amana are a covered with large yellow lotus lily blooms. The Amana Colonies Nature Trail at the junction of SRs 151 and 6 treats hikers and cross-country skiers to sights such as wildlife, geological features and Native American mounds along its 3.2 miles.
The colonies are open to visitors year-round, although some historic sites close or offer reduced hours during the winter season. See individual attraction listings for schedule information, or contact the convention and visitors bureau.
Visitor Centers
Amana Colonies Convention and Visitors Bureau 622 46th Ave. Amana, IA 52203. Phone:(319)622-7622 or (800)579-2294
Self-guiding tours:
A guide outlining the various shops and historic sites in the Amana villages is available at the convention and visitors bureau.