A First Trip to the Amana Colonies

Ever since moving to Eastern Iowa, there's been at least one thing I've been told to do, and have wanted to do, but never took the chance to make it a priority. It's so popular that every time my parents come to town, they mention we should do it.With near perfect weather on Saturday, my parents in town, and nothing else going on, I knew it was finally time to visit the Amana Colonies.

Honestly, I really never researched it, and had no clue what to expect. Was it historical? Was it just a bunch of shops? Was it similar to Usher's Ferry? I didn't know. What I did know is people went there all the time, there was a brewery, and it was gorgeous outside, so why not. My wife and history loving daughter were out of town, so I was a bit worried my 5 year old son would be bored, but figured we'd do what we can. I was just happy to spend the quality time with my son and parents.

The verdict? I was very pleasantly surprised. We thoroughly enjoyed the art galleries, toy
store (of course), and the rock store. My son's eyes opened wide at all the discoveries in there, from fossils to geodes, and more. He was even blown away by the woolen mill, and how all those little strings make up our clothes. He was staring at the loom, then his shirt, back and forth for a couple minutes in disbelief. Too bad it was a weekend. We'll have to go back when the loom is working on a weekday.

Of course the highlight of the trip was the food (lunch at Serena's was excellent) the beer at Millstream, and all the wine tasting. If you've never been to the Colonies however, take note it's mostly fruit wines. If that's not your cup of tea, don't miss White Cross Cellars.

Inevitably, these were so many things we missed out on, and we'll gladly return, especially to try out the many, many restaurants. Now I understand why it's a definite destination.

Also have to say thank you to the Colonies for making KDAT your chosen station, as we heard it in almost every place we stopped.