"A very interesting place in..." Iowa Things to Do Tip by erikajj

A very interesting place in Iowa is the Amana Colonies. In 1855, Germans seeking religious freedom settled in Eastern Iowa and formed a communal society. The area is beautiful, with rolling hills and lots of green space and the people are welcoming and engaging. The Colonies are famous for their wood furniture and I also recommend the wine and beer that is made there. The Amana Colonies are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Great food and lots of it, fun shopping, interesting museums, and great B&Bs. We have stayed in the Die Heimat Country Inn Bed and Breakfast several times. The family that runs it are wonderful hosts, the breakfast is amazing, and the rooms are very nice. They are located in Homestead and the phone number is (888)613-5463. The Rawson's Inn is also wonderful and I believe it is right next door to the Die Heimat. The Rawson's number is (800)637-6035. My favorite restaurants in the Colonies are the Colony Inn, the Ox Yoke Inn, and the Ronneburg Restaurant. They are all wonderful and most restaurants in the colonies serve food family-style. At the Colony Inn, dessert is included! Make sure to wear your loose pants!

Directions: On the Iowa River Valley. About an hour (?) from Iowa City and Cedar Rapids and a few hours by car from Des Moines. If you are driving, take Hwy 6 rather than the interstate for some lovely scenery. (
othercontact: http://www.jeonet.com/amanas/