Remember last year when USA Today called the Amana Colonies a "tourist trap?" Well, we're much happier with this assessment!

A new article from Only in Your State outlines "24 Hidden Gems To Explore In 2024" across the United States, and we're proud to report that the Amana Colonies made the list! It was put together by "OnlyInYourState's team of local travel experts," and they placed the Amana Colonies in the "Man-Made Gems" category.

Amana Colonies Festivals Inc., Facebook
Amana Colonies Festivals Inc., Facebook
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Courtlin
Courtlin
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According to the official website, the Amana Colonies is a "National Historic Landmark and one of America’s longest-lived communal societies." It was started in 1855 by a group of Germans who were fleeing religious persecution and economic depression. They initially established six villages, but the seventh, Homestead, was added in 1861.

Ackerman Winery, Facebook
Ackerman Winery, Facebook
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Millstream Brewing Co., Facebook
Millstream Brewing Co., Facebook
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Millstream Brewing Co., Facebook
Millstream Brewing Co., Facebook
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The Amana Colonies attracts thousands of visitors each year with its variety of unique shops, antique stores, wineries & breweries, restaurants, art galleries, trails, and more. Popular stops include Millstream Brewing Co., Ackerman Winery, Ox Yoke Inn, Ronneburg Restaurant, the Amana Furniture & Clock Shop, the Amana Woolen Mill, and the iconic General Store. They also host a series of annual events, including Oktoberfest, Winterfest, Maifest, and Prelude to Christmas. For a full list of businesses, restaurants, and festivals, you can check out the official website HERE.

A few other Midwest spots made Only in Your State's list. They include:

Fall Photos from Palisades-Kepler State Park Near Mt. Vernon

The park is gorgeous in the fall.

Gallery Credit: Julie James

Iowans Show Off Their Most Beautiful Photos of the State

Gallery Credit: Courtlin

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