Your Amana Colonies Day Trip at a Glance for 2025
Feeling the need to escape the city and step into another world? Just a short drive from Des Moines, the Amana Colonies offer a perfect day trip where time seems to slow down. This cluster of seven historic German villages is a journey into a unique piece of American history, filled with incredible food, authentic crafts, and serene countryside. So, are Amana Colonies worth visiting? The answer is a wholehearted yes! It’s a fantastic blend of history, culture, and culinary delight, making it an ideal destination for your next Des Moines to Amana Colonies day trip in 2025.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Des Moines | ~110 miles |
| Drive Time | ~1 hour 45 minutes |
| Estimated Cost | $75 – $150 per person |
| Best Time to Visit | May – October (especially during festivals) |
How to Get to the Amana Colonies from Des Moines
Planning your route is the easiest part of this adventure. The journey is a pleasant and straightforward drive through Iowa’s rolling heartland.
By Car (The Best Way)
Driving is the most practical and recommended way to experience the Amana Colonies. It gives you the freedom to explore the seven distinct villages at your own pace. The drive is simple:
- Hop on I-80 East from Des Moines.
- Enjoy the scenic drive for about 100 miles.
- Take exit 225 for US-151 N toward the Amana Colonies.
- Follow the signs for a few miles, and you’ll find yourself arriving in a different era.
Once you arrive in the main village of Amana, you’ll find plenty of free street parking and several public lots, making it easy to park your car and explore on foot.
By Public Transportation
For a day trip, relying on public transport isn’t a feasible option. There are no direct bus or train routes from Des Moines. While you could take a bus to nearby Iowa City or Cedar Rapids, you would still face an expensive 20-30 minute taxi or rideshare to the colonies, with no guarantee of a reliable return trip. To make the most of your day, driving is the way to go.
Top 5 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Amana Colonies
With so much to see, where do you start? Here are the top five experiences you can’t miss on your day trip.
- Explore the Historic Shops of Main Amana: The main street of the village of Amana feels like a living postcard. Wander down the historic sidewalks and pop into shops that have been operating for generations. Don’t miss the Amana Woolen Mill for beautiful blankets, the Broom & Basket Shop to see craftspeople at work, and the iconic Amana General Store for a bit of everything, from local jams to classic candy.
- Step into the Past at the Amana Heritage Museum: To truly understand the incredible story of the Amana Colonies, your first stop should be here. The museum provides fascinating context about the community’s German Pietist roots, their communal way of life, and the “Great Change” of 1932. Admission is around $10 for adults and is worth every penny.
- Indulge in a Family-Style German Feast: You can’t say you’ve visited the Amana Colonies without experiencing a traditional German meal. “Family-style” means the table is filled with heaping platters of meats, sides, and salads for everyone to share. Head to the legendary Ox Yoke Inn or the historic Ronneburg Restaurant for an authentic and filling experience.
- Taste Local Flavors at a Winery or Brewery: The German heritage of the colonies extends to their love of good drink. Sample fruit wines at Ackerman Winery, enjoy a more traditional vintage at Fireside Winery, or visit Iowa’s oldest brewery, Millstream Brewing Co., for a refreshing lager or ale. Tastings typically range from free to about $15.
- Watch Artisans at Work: The Amana Colonies are not just a museum—they are a community of working artists and craftspeople. Many shops have live demonstrations where you can watch a blacksmith forge iron, a cooper build a barrel, or a weaver work a loom. These moments of living history are truly special and often free to watch (though schedules can be seasonal).
A Perfect One-Day Itinerary from Des Moines
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Here’s a schedule that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed. This is how to tour Amana Colonies for a perfect day out.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Depart from Des Moines | Grab coffee and hit I-80 East. Enjoy the morning drive. |
| 10:00 AM | Arrive & Visit the Heritage Museum | Park in the main Amana village. Start at the museum to get historical context for your visit. |
| 11:30 AM | Stroll and Shop | Wander the main street. Pop into the General Store, Woolen Mill, and craft shops. |
| 1:00 PM | Authentic German Lunch | Head to the Ox Yoke Inn or Ronneburg for a memorable family-style meal. |
| 2:30 PM | Winery/Brewery Tasting | Walk to a local winery or Millstream Brewery for a tasting to sample local drinks. |
| 3:30 PM | Final Exploration & Sweets | Grab a treat from Hahn’s Bakery, find the Lily Lake for photos, or visit one last shop. |
| 4:30 PM | Depart for Des Moines | Begin your drive home, full of good food and great memories. |
Where to Eat: A Taste of Germany in Iowa
The German food in Amana Colonies is a highlight of any visit. From hearty feasts to quick bites, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.
Classic Family-Style Dining
- Ox Yoke Inn ($$-$$$): Famous across the Midwest, this restaurant serves up classic German-American dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, sauerbraten, and Kassler Rippchen (smoked pork chops) in a warm, welcoming setting.
- Ronneburg Restaurant ($$-$$$): Located in a historic building, the Ronneburg offers a similarly beloved menu of family-style German classics. The atmosphere is cozy and authentic.
Casual Bites and Treats
- Millstream Brau Haus ($$): The perfect spot for a more casual meal. Pair one of Iowa’s best craft beers with a delicious bratwurst, giant pretzel, or schnitzel sandwich.
- Amana General Store ($): Ideal for a quick and affordable lunch. They have a deli counter serving sandwiches, plus you can pick up famous Amana meats and cheeses to take home.
- Hahn’s Hearth Oven Bakery ($): A mandatory stop! The smell alone will draw you in. Grab traditional German pastries, breads, and coffee cakes for a sweet treat.
Insider Tips for a Flawless Day Trip
Make your visit even better with a few local secrets.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The main village is very walkable, and you’ll want to explore every charming corner without getting sore feet.
- Visit Mid-Week: To avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy more personal interactions at the shops, plan your trip for a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday.
- Check Festival Dates for 2025: If you love lively events, plan your visit during Maifest (May), Oktoberfest (October), or Prelude to Christmas (December). If you prefer quiet, avoid these weekends. Always check the official Amana Colonies website for confirmed 2025 dates.
- Bring a Cooler: You will be tempted by the delicious Amana bacon, sausage, cheese, and other goodies. A cooler in the car means you can stock up!
- Start at the Visitor’s Center: Located in the main village, they have free maps, brochures, and friendly staff who can answer any questions and give you the latest updates on events or demonstrations.
What to Pack for Your Amana Adventure
A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Camera or Smartphone (for all the photo ops!)
- Sunscreen & Hat (especially in summer)
- A Reusable Water Bottle
- Cooler Bag & Ice Pack (for all the treats you’ll buy)
- Cash for smaller shops or bakeries that might not take cards
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend on your day trip.
| Expense Category | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (Round Trip) | $20 – $30 | $20 – $30 |
| Lunch | $15 – $25 | $25 – $40 |
| Attractions/Tastings | $10 – $15 | $20 – $30 |
| Souvenirs/Shopping | $20+ | $50+ |
| TOTAL | $65 – $90 | $115 – $150+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Amana Colonies worth visiting?
Absolutely. It’s one of Iowa’s most unique cultural destinations. If you appreciate history, handmade goods, hearty food, and a change of pace from modern life, you will love it. It is an easy and incredibly rewarding day trip from Des Moines.
How long does it take to tour Amana Colonies?
For a great day trip experience focusing on the main Amana village (shops, lunch, museum), you should plan for 4 to 6 hours. If you want to explore the other six villages more deeply, you would need a full day (6-8 hours) or even a weekend.
Are Amana Colonies Amish?
No, this is a common misconception. The Amana Colonies were founded by German Pietists who lived a communal lifestyle but have always embraced modern technology like cars, electricity, and phones. The Amish have different Swiss-German Anabaptist roots and religious beliefs, and they choose to live a “plain” life without many of these modern conveniences.
How to tour Amana Colonies?
The best way is to drive your own car. This allows you to easily travel between the seven villages. Park for free in the main village of Amana and explore its shops, restaurants, and museums on foot—it’s very walkable. For a great start, grab a map at the Visitor’s Center to guide your tour.
TLDR: Your Perfect Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here’s the rundown for your 2025 Amana Colonies adventure:
- Getting There: Drive. It’s an easy 1 hour, 45-minute trip on I-80 E.
- Must-Do: Eat a family-style German meal at Ox Yoke Inn or Ronneburg.
- First Stop: Visit the Heritage Museum to understand the unique history.
- Don’t Miss: The Woolen Mill, Broom & Basket Shop, and Millstream Brewery.
- Key Fact: They are NOT Amish; they are a German religious community with a different history.
- Bring: Comfy shoes and a cooler for meats and cheeses!
