In the green east-central Iowa River Valley along Interstate-80 (100 miles east of Des Moines), the seven Amana Colonies have clung to their roots with German steadfastness since 1855. Almost half the residents are descendants of the original German colonists; inns, restaurants and shops draw heavily on traditional foods and handicrafts. At the Amana Heritage Society, ask about custom tours in addition to the five museum sites. (319) 622-3567; amanaheritage.org
Shop for beautiful, classic quilts at Heritage Designs, (319) 622-3887; heritagedesignsquiltshop.com, or find local ham, bacon, sausage and cheese at Amana Meat Shop and Smokehouse. (800) 373-6328; amanameatshop.com
Amana Colonies Convention and Visitors Bureau
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