Iowa--Marshalltown to Amana Colonies
Date: 2004-11-16
The next time you find yourself traveling in Central Iowa, get off the
interstate and treat yourself to a beautiful scenic drive through America's
Heartland. Start out in Marshalltown, Iowa and take Rte. 30 east to County
Road T47. Turn south, and you'll be following the winding road along the
Iowa River. Enjoy the scenic river on one side, and the gently rolling
farm fields on the other, as you wind your way to the little town of Montour.
Take County Road E49 east toward Tama. Just before reaching Tama, stop off at the Mesquakie Native American Indian Settlement. Continue east to Tama. Just off Rte. 30 near Tama is the last remaining Lincoln Route Bridge in existence. Head southeast on County Road E64 to County Road V18, which crosses the Iowa River to Chelsea, where you follow County Road E66 east to Rte. 21. Turn south to Iowa Rte. 212 to Marengo. From there, take Rte. 6 east to Rte. 220, which will take you on a loop of the 7 Amana Colonies and a trip back in time. You'll pass by the beautiful Lily Lake and get to see the fertile country landscape that captivated the founders of these communal colonies.
The Amana Colonies, a National Historic Landmark, was founded in the mid-1800s. Today, visitors are treated to a glimpse of farm life in the 1800s while strolling through a series of museums and shops where you can buy hand-woven baskets, handmade quilts, Amana woolens, clocks, and heirloom furniture. Stay at the Die Heimat Country Inn (888/613-5463), which was originally a stagecoach stop, and enjoy the ambiance of the Colonies and the many family-style restaurants in the area.
Starting Point:
Marshalltown, IA
Distance of Drive:
74.5 miles
Must Eat:
Stones (in business over 100 years)
507 S. 3rd Ave., Marshalltown, IA 50158
Phone:641-753-3626
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring through fall is a good time to drive, but mid-summer is best.
Points of Interest on Drive:
Mesquakie Native American Indian Settlement
7 Amana Colonies
Die Heimat Country Inn
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