Welcome to Kalona, Iowa – home to one of the largest and oldest Amish settlements west of the Mississippi River. Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Iowa, just 30 minutes from Iowa City, Kalona offers visitors a unique glimpse into Amish life and culture. As you explore this charming community, you’ll discover a blend of old-world traditions and modern amenities that make Kalona a fascinating destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
History of the Kalona Amish Settlement
The Kalona Amish settlement dates back to 1846, when the first Amish settlers arrived from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Ohio[1]. Drawn by the rich farming potential of the area, these pioneers established what would become the largest Amish-Mennonite community west of the Mississippi. Over the years, the settlement has grown and evolved, maintaining many traditional practices while adapting to changing times.
Today, the Kalona area is home to approximately 1,200 Amish individuals spread across multiple church districts[1]. The community is known for its relatively progressive stance compared to other Old Order Amish settlements, allowing for the use of some modern technologies like metal-wheeled tractors for fieldwork and power lawn mowers[1].
Exploring Amish Country
As you drive through the countryside surrounding Kalona, you’ll be transported to a simpler time. Horse-drawn buggies share the road with cars, and neatly tended farms dot the landscape. To fully appreciate the Amish way of life, consider taking a guided tour that will provide insight into their customs and beliefs.
Kalona Historical Village
Your first stop should be the Kalona Historical Village, located at 715 D Ave. This living history museum offers a fascinating glimpse into pioneer life in the 1800s. Spread across a full city block, the village features three museums and 12 historic buildings filled with period artifacts[2]. Here, you can learn about the importance of quilting, weaving, and other traditional crafts in Amish and pioneer life.
The village is also home to the Iowa Mennonite Archives, which houses a wealth of information about the area’s Amish and Mennonite history[3]. As you explore the grounds, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the railroad, land grants, and pioneering spirit shaped this region of Iowa.
Popular Amish Businesses
One of the best ways to experience Amish culture is by visiting some of the many Amish-owned businesses in and around Kalona. These establishments offer a wide range of handcrafted goods, fresh produce, and delicious baked treats.
Golden Delight Bakery
A must-visit destination for any food lover, Golden Delight Bakery is located just north of town on the country roads. Here, you’ll find an array of mouthwatering baked goods, including pies, cookies, and bread. The bakery caters to both tourists and locals, offering a taste of authentic Amish cooking[2].
Address: 1309 540th St SW, Kalona, IA 52247
Kalona Creamery
Another local favorite is the Kalona Creamery, a locally owned establishment that’s popular with both tourists and residents. The creamery is famous for its homemade cheese, particularly the fresh squeaky cheese curds that are typically ready by noon on Tuesdays and Fridays. In addition to cheese, you can indulge in homemade chocolates and ice cream[2].
Address: 2206 540th St SW, Kalona, IA 52247
Community Country Store
For a truly immersive Amish shopping experience, visit the Community Country Store. This rural general store offers a glimpse into daily Amish life, with its narrow aisles filled with practical goods and traditional items. You’ll find everything from kerosene lamps and wooden toys to bulk foods and handmade quilts. The store provides a unique opportunity to shop alongside Amish community members[4].
Address: 2208 540th St SW, Kalona, IA 52247
Amish Craft Shops and Furniture Stores
As you explore the countryside around Kalona, you’ll come across numerous Amish-owned craft shops and furniture stores. These businesses showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail that the Amish are known for. Look for handmade quilts, wooden furniture, baskets, and other traditional crafts. Many of these shops are located on Amish farms, providing a chance to see their way of life up close.
Dining Experiences
To truly immerse yourself in Amish culture, consider arranging a meal in an Amish or Mennonite home. These dining experiences often feature organic meats, homemade egg noodles, tapioca pudding, and apple butter – all staples of Amish cuisine[4]. While specific addresses for these dining experiences are not publicly listed, local tour operators can help arrange such visits.
Annual Events
Kalona Fall Festival
If you’re planning your visit in the fall, don’t miss the Kalona Fall Festival. This annual event showcases the best of Amish and local culture, featuring demonstrations of traditional crafts and cooking methods. You can watch as antique equipment, like the 1881 treadmill and outdoor bread oven, is put to use. The festival is also a food lover’s paradise, offering homemade ice cream, soft pretzels, cinnamon rolls, ribs on a stick, biscuits and gravy, and chocolate chip cookies with milk[4].
Understanding Amish Culture
As you explore Kalona and interact with the Amish community, it’s important to remember that their lifestyle is deeply rooted in their faith. The Old Order Amish, who make up the majority of Kalona’s Amish population, adhere to strict religious beliefs that influence every aspect of their lives.
The Amish choose to live without many modern conveniences, such as electricity, natural gas, and plumbing. They also avoid the use of mirrors and bright colors in their clothing. These choices are not made out of a rejection of technology itself, but rather out of a desire to maintain their community’s solidarity and separation from the outside world[4].
It’s worth noting that not all Amish in the Kalona area follow the same strict guidelines. The community includes New Order Amish, who may use rubber tires on their horse-drawn buggies, and Beachy Amish, who might drive black cars and use cell phones[4]. This diversity within the Amish community adds another layer of interest for visitors.
Respecting Amish Privacy
While the Amish in Kalona are generally welcoming to visitors, it’s crucial to respect their privacy and customs. Remember that you are a guest in their community. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially of Amish individuals.
- Respect private property and don’t enter Amish farms or homes without invitation.
- Dress modestly when visiting Amish businesses or attending events.
- Be mindful of your behavior and language, as the Amish value humility and simplicity.
Beyond the Amish: Other Attractions in Kalona
While the Amish community is undoubtedly the main draw for many visitors, Kalona has more to offer. The town itself is a charming slice of small-town America, with a population of just over 2,600 as of the 2020 census[3]. The historic downtown area is home to a variety of locally owned shops and restaurants, many of which cater to tourists interested in antiques and local crafts.
Iowa Mennonite School
Located a few miles northwest of Kalona, the Iowa Mennonite School is another point of interest for those curious about the area’s religious heritage[3]. While not an Amish institution, it provides insight into the broader Anabaptist community in the region.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re looking to extend your trip, consider visiting the nearby Amana Colonies, located about an hour north of Kalona. While often confused with the Amish, the Amana Colonies have a distinct history and culture of their own[4].
Planning Your Visit
The best time to visit Kalona depends on your interests. Summer and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the countryside and attending outdoor events like the Fall Festival. However, the Amish community is active year-round, so you’ll find businesses open and tours available in any season.
When planning your accommodations, consider staying in Kalona itself to fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. There are several bed and breakfasts and small hotels in the area. Alternatively, you can stay in nearby Iowa City, which offers a wider range of lodging options and is only a 30-minute drive away.
As you prepare for your visit to Kalona, remember that you’re not just visiting a tourist destination, but a living, breathing community with a rich history and vibrant culture. Take the time to engage with local businesses, learn about Amish traditions, and appreciate the slower pace of life that defines this unique corner of Iowa.
Whether you’re interested in history, craftsmanship, food, or simply experiencing a different way of life, Kalona’s Amish settlement offers a wealth of experiences. From the clip-clop of horse-drawn buggies to the aroma of freshly baked goods, every moment in Kalona is an opportunity to step back in time and gain a new perspective on what truly matters in life.
Citations:
[1] https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Kalona_Old_Order_Amish_Settlement_%28Kalona%2C_Iowa%2C_USA%29
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JFEWArTHsE
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalona,_Iowa
[4] https://midwestweekends.com/plan-a-trip/history-heritage/ethnic-towns/kalona-iowa-amish-organics/
[5] https://kalonaiowa.org/tours/meet-the-amish/
[6] https://kalonaiowa.org
[7] https://www.traveliowa.com/iowas-amish-mennonite-communities/
[8] https://amishamerica.com/amish-kalona-iowa/