If you are looking for the best things to do in Kalona Iowa, you have come to the right place. Kalona may be one of Iowa’s best-kept secrets, but once you visit, you’ll understand why so many people, including me, return again and again.
Nestled in the rolling countryside of southeastern Iowa, this charming small town is known for its thriving Amish and Mennonite communities, handcrafted goods, incredible homemade food, and welcoming downtown filled with locally owned businesses.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend getaway, a scenic Iowa road trip, or simply looking for one of the best small towns in Iowa to explore for an afternoon, Kalona offers a refreshing change of pace. Spend the day browsing antique stores, sampling fresh cheese and baked goods, touring historical attractions, or taking a peaceful drive through the surrounding countryside where horse-drawn buggies, and the things they leave behind on the road, are still a common sight.
Although Kalona has a population of just a few thousand residents, it attracts visitors from across the Midwest who come to experience authentic Amish culture, shop for handcrafted furniture and housewares like quilts. You can purchase Amish canned foods or pick up fresh baked items, enjoy farm-to-table dining, and attend seasonal festivals.
The town is also recognized as the Quilt Capital of Iowa, and they won’t let you forget it as you stroll through town. The streets are lined with more than 40 quilt-inspired designs that really make the area pop.
Located only about 30 minutes southwest of Iowa City and roughly an hour from Cedar Rapids, Kalona makes an easy day trip while also offering enough attractions to fill an entire weekend. It’s one of those destinations where slowing down isn’t just encouraged, it’s part of the experience.
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Kalona, Iowa, including must-visit attractions, where to eat, the best places to shop, hidden gems, and helpful travel tips so you can plan the perfect visit to this Iowa Amish town.
Quick Facts About Kalona, Iowa
| Kalona Iowa | Quick Facts |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Washington County, Southeastern Iowa |
| 🚗 Drive from Cedar Rapids | About 45 minutes to about 1 hour |
| 🚗 Drive from Iowa City | About 30 minutes |
| ⭐ Best known For | Amish culture, handmade quilts, cheese, bakeries, antiques |
| ⏰ Best Time to Visit | Spring through Fall, especially September during the Fall Festival |
| 🕒 Time Needed | Half-day to full weekend |
| 👨👩👧 Family Friendly | Yes |
| 🐶 Pet Friendly | Many outdoor areas and parks welcome leashed pets |
| 🛍️ Perfect For | Couples, families, food lovers, photographers, road trips |
Why Visit Kalona, Iowa?
If you’ve ever wished you could escape busy city life for a day, Kalona is the place to go!
Unlike larger tourist destinations in the Midwest, Kalona hasn’t lost the charm that makes small town Iowa so special. Instead of chain restaurants and crowded attractions, you’ll find family owned bakeries, locally operated restaurants, handcrafted furniture stores, quilt shops, antique shops, and friendly small business owners who genuinely enjoy welcoming visitors.
One of the most interesting things about Kalona is its close connection to one of the largest Amish settlements west of the Mississippi River. While the Amish community values privacy, visitors can respectfully experience many aspects of the area’s heritage through locally owned businesses, museums, markets, and scenic countryside drives. You’ll often pass horse-drawn buggies sharing the road and roadside stands selling fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, or handmade crafts depending on the season.
If you get lucky like my family did, you’ll head into a shop with the intentions of buying a bike, and the next thing you know you find yourself on a personal tour of a goat farm. Now that was a good time!
Plus, some would say that the food alone is worth the trip.
Fresh cheese curds, homemade pies, warm donuts, locally smoked meats, Amish-made jams, bulk foods, and family-style comfort meals have earned Kalona a loyal following among Iowa food lovers. In fact, many visitors come specifically to stock up on baked goods and specialty groceries before heading home.
They are the only place around that sells scrapple, a delicious meat rarely found in Iowa although it is a breakfast staple in most kitchens on the East coast.
Kalona also serves as an excellent stop if you are partaking in a larger Eastern Iowa road trip. It’s close to the Amana Colonies, Riverside (the future birthplace of Captain Kirk), Iowa City, and Mount Vernon, making it easy to combine several charming destinations into one memorable weekend.
Whether you’re interested in history, photography, shopping, local food, or simply taking the scenic route, Kalona is one of the most rewarding small towns to visit in Iowa.
The 12 Best Things to Do in Kalona, Iowa
The best way to experience Kalona is by taking your time. Wander through downtown, stop whenever something catches your eye, and don’t be afraid to explore the country roads or talk to a local. Some of this rural area’s most memorable experiences are found in small family-run businesses tucked away just outside the city limits.
From fascinating museums and Amish-owned markets to delicious bakeries and locally crafted furniture, these are the attractions that make Kalona one of Iowa’s most charming spots to visit.
1. Explore the Kalona Historical Village
If you only have time for one attraction in Kalona, make it the Kalona Historical Village. This 22-acre living history museum offers one of the best opportunities to learn about the area’s Amish, Mennonite, and early pioneer heritage.
More than a dozen restored buildings, including a beautiful general store, church, schoolhouse, train depot, and historic homes show what daily life looked like in rural Iowa generations ago. One thing that stood out to me is how much smaller everything seemed in comparrison to the other buildings in the area.
Inside the museum, you’ll also find exhibits featuring handcrafted quilts, toys, antique farm equipment, and fascinating stories about the families who helped shape the Kalona community.
If you’re visiting in the fall, check the calendar before your trip since special events often include live demonstrations, food vendors, and local artisans.
Why Visit
- Learn about Amish and Mennonite history
- Family-friendly attraction
- Beautiful photography opportunities
- Seasonal festivals and events
Travel Tip: Plan to spend at least one to two hours exploring the grounds.
2. Shop for Handmade Goods in Downtown Kalona
One of the best things to do in Kalona is simply wander through its charming downtown.
Unlike shopping districts crowded by national retailers, nearly every store here is locally owned. You’ll discover handcrafted furniture, locally made soaps, candles, home décor, quilts, antiques, gifts, kitchen items, artwork, and specialty foods that make wonderful souvenirs.
Many shops feature products made by local Amish and Mennonite craftsmen, making downtown Kalona an excellent place to find authentic Iowa-made gifts you won’t see anywhere else. You can purchase a lot of gifts while knowing that your recipient definitely doesn’t already have one!
Whether you’re browsing antique stores or chatting with friendly shop owners, downtown Kalona encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy the experience.
Don’t Miss
- Boutique gift shops
- Antique stores
- Handmade furniture
- Quilt displays
- Local artisan products
3. Visit the Kalona Creamery
No trip to Kalona is complete without sampling some of the area’s famous cheese.
The Kalona Creamery has been producing handcrafted dairy products using milk sourced from local family farms for generations. Visitors can browse the gift shop, and take home fresh cheese curds, aged cheddar, smoked cheeses, butter, and other locally produced specialties.
Whether you’re creating the perfect charcuterie board or simply looking for a delicious snack for the drive home, this creamery stop is worth making.
Popular Purchases
- Cheese curds
- Sharp cheddar
- Smoked cheeses
- Butter
- Local dairy products
4. Take a Scenic Drive Through Amish Country
One of the most memorable experiences in Kalona doesn’t require an admission ticket.
The quiet country roads surrounding town offer a glimpse into one of the largest Amish settlements west of the Mississippi River. Rolling farmland, white farmhouses, horse-drawn buggies, clotheslines filled with handmade quilts, and beautifully maintained gardens create a landscape unlike almost anywhere else in Iowa.
Driving these peaceful backroads is an experience in itself, but it’s important to remember that these are working communities not tourist attractions. So, be sure to drive cautiously, as horse-drawn buggies share many of the roads.
Along the way, you may discover roadside produce stands, greenhouses, furniture shops, bakeries, or handmade craft stores that aren’t always listed on Google Maps.
This scenic drive is especially beautiful during the fall when colorful foliage surrounds the countryside.
Travel Tip: Slow down and enjoy the journey, some of Kalona’s best discoveries happen when you venture off the main highway.
5. Browse Stringtown Grocery
Hidden just outside Kalona, Stringtown Grocery has become something of a destination for visitors exploring Amish Country.
This family-owned bulk food store is packed with baking ingredients, homemade candies, spices, dried fruits, nuts, snacks, jams, noodles, locally produced honey, and specialty foods that are difficult to find elsewhere.
Home bakers especially love browsing the shelves for hard-to-find ingredients sold in bulk at affordable prices. You’ll also find kitchen gadgets, old-fashioned candies, and seasonal treats throughout the year.
Many visitors arrive planning to buy one or two items and leave with an overflowing cart.
Whether you’re stocking your pantry or searching for unique gifts, Stringtown Grocery is one of the most enjoyable shopping stops near Kalona.
Popular Items
- Bulk baking supplies to fill your cabinets on the cheap
- Homemade jams in almost every flavor
- Local honey in a variety of sizes
- Candy by weight
- Fresh spices to fill your containers at home
- Soup mixes
- Specialty flours
6. Enjoy Homemade Pastries at Golden Delight Bakery
The smell alone is enough to convince you to stop.
Golden Delight Bakery has become one of Kalona’s favorite destinations for fresh baked goods made from traditional family recipes. Inside you’ll find shelves filled with pies, cinnamon rolls, cookies, breads, donuts, pastries, and other homemade treats that pair perfectly with a morning coffee or just an afternoon road trip break.
Many recipes reflect the area’s Amish and Mennonite baking traditions, emphasizing simple ingredients and time-tested techniques that produce incredible flavor.
Depending on the season, you’ll also find fruit pies made with locally grown produce and holiday specialties that keep both locals and visitors coming back.
Arriving early in the day offers the widest selection since many favorites sell out before closing.
Don’t Leave Without Trying
- Cinnamon rolls
- Fruit pies
- Homemade cookies
- Fresh bread
- Seasonal pastries
7. Discover Kalona’s Quilt and Textile Heritage
Kalona’s connection to quilting is one of the things that makes this Iowa town truly unique. After all, it is known as the Quilt Capital of Iowa. Kalona celebrates a long tradition of quilting, textile arts, and handcrafted work passed down through generations.
Visitors can explore quilt shops, antique stores filled with vintage textiles, and local businesses featuring handmade creations from area artisans. As I mentioned earlier, the downtown area even features a quilt-inspired walking tour with colorful quilt block designs incorporated into the sidewalks throughout town.
For anyone who enjoys sewing, crafting, antiques, or handmade goods, Kalona is a destination worth adding to your Iowa travel bucket list.
Why Visit
- See Iowa’s quilting heritage
- Shop for handmade quilts and textiles
- Find unique gifts and collectibles
- Enjoy a slower-paced shopping experience
Travel Tip: Even if you’re not a quilter, the craftsmanship and history behind these pieces make them fascinating to explore.
8. Visit the Mennonite Museum and Archives
History lovers should make time for the Mennonite Museum and Archives, located near the Kalona Historical Village.
The museum preserves the stories, traditions, and migration history of Mennonite families who helped shape the Kalona area. Exhibits include historical artifacts, documents, and items that provide insight into the faith, culture, and daily lives of generations of settlers.
This is a great stop for visitors who want to better understand why Kalona became such an important center for Amish and Mennonite heritage in Iowa.
Why Visit
- Learn local history
- Explore Iowa’s Mennonite heritage
- See historical artifacts
- Pair with the Kalona Historical Village
9. Walk Across the Historic Bunker Mill Bridge
For a peaceful outdoor stop and a great photo opportunity, head to the Historic Bunker Mill Bridge.
This beautiful covered bridge is one of the area’s hidden gems and offers visitors a chance to experience a piece of Iowa history surrounded by farmland and scenic countryside.
The bridge is especially beautiful during sunrise, fall foliage season, or after a fresh snowfall when the surrounding landscape feels like a classic Midwest postcard.
Why Visit
- Historic Iowa landmark
- Great photography location
- Peaceful countryside scenery
- Easy addition to an Amish Country road trip
10. Shop for Antiques and Unique Finds
Antique lovers will quickly discover why Kalona is such a fun Midwest shopping destination.
The town is filled with stores offering vintage furniture, collectibles, antiques, handmade items, home décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Whether you’re searching for an old farmhouse find, a unique kitchen item, or something to decorate your home, you’ll find plenty of reasons to browse.
Popular stops include antique shops and specialty stores throughout downtown Kalona.
Some favorites include:
- Vintage décor
- Antique furniture
- Handmade gifts
- Vintage kitchenware
- Local artwork
Shopping in Kalona is less about rushing through a store and more about enjoying the experience of discovering something unexpected. You are sure to see something that you didn’t think you would find. It happens every time I visit the area.
11. Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Kalona Chocolates
If you’re looking for a delicious gift for family and friends from your Iowa road trip, stop by Kalona Chocolates.
This locally owned shop creates handcrafted chocolates, including truffles, caramels, and other sweet treats that make perfect gifts or road trip snacks. If your timing is right, you may even catch these candies being made!
This is a must stop when you are downtown shopping in Kalona.
Don’t Miss
- Handmade chocolates
- Seasonal treats
- Gift boxes
- Locally made sweets
12. Relax Outdoors at Kalona City Park
In my opinion, the best small-town attractions are the simple ones that you don’t put much planning into.
Kalona City Park offers visitors a place to slow down, stretch your legs, and enjoy some fresh air. It’s a nice stop if you’re traveling with kids, bringing a picnic, or simply want a peaceful break between shopping and sightseeing.
The park is also a reminder of what makes small-town Iowa special, beautiful green spaces, friendly communities, and places where visitors can relax, usually without too many crowds.
Best Restaurants in Kalona, Iowa
One of the best parts about visiting Kalona is the food. From Amish-inspired baked goods to local restaurants serving comfort food, this small town has plenty of memorable places to eat.
Tequila Grill Kalona
For a sit-down meal, Tequila Grill offers a more casual dining experience in downtown Kalona. It combines a cozy atmosphere with Mexican inspired dishes, making it a popular choice for lunch with the family or for a relaxing dinner after exploring town.
JW’s Deli
For a casual meal, Jw’s Deli is a local favorite offering sandwiches, deli favorites, and a comfortable small-town atmosphere.
Other Places Worth Trying
Other Kalona dining stops include:
- Tuscan Moon Grill on Fifth
- Creamery Coffee
- Dutch Country Table
Best Shopping in Kalona, Iowa
Shopping is one of the biggest reasons people visit Kalona.
From Amish-made goods to antiques and local treats, this is a town where you can actually find things you won’t see at a typical shopping center, making it perfect for gift shopping!
Must-Visit Kalona Shops
Best of Iowa
Best of Iowa is a great stop for locally made products, gifts, antiques, and Iowa-themed finds.
Timeless Charm
Timeless Charm offers gifts, home goods, clothing accessories, and seasonal items.
Antique Shopping
For antique lovers, don’t miss exploring downtown shops like:
- The Vintage Society
- Kalona Antique Company
- Woodin Wheel Antiques
Best Time to Visit Kalona, Iowa
Kalona is a year-round destination, but each season offers something different.
Spring
Spring is a beautiful time for:
- Country drives
- Fresh flowers
- Garden shopping
- Less crowded attractions
Summer
Summer is ideal for:
- Exploring downtown
- Outdoor activities
- Farmers markets
- Scenic drives
Fall
Fall may be the most popular time to visit.
Visitors come for:
- Fall colors
- Harvest season
- Apple treats
- The Kalona Fall Festival
- Beautiful countryside drives
Winter
Winter offers a quieter experience with:
- Holiday shopping
- Cozy bakeries
- Handmade gifts
- Christmas events
One-Day Kalona, Iowa Itinerary
Morning
☕ Start with coffee or breakfast
Visit:
- Creamery Coffee
- Golden Delight Bakery
Pick up fresh baked goods for now and for later.
Late Morning
Explore:
- Kalona Historical Village
- Mennonite Museum and Archives
Lunch
Enjoy:
- JW’s Deli
- Tequila Grill Kalona
Afternoon
Spend time shopping:
- Stringtown Grocery
- Downtown Kalona shops
- Quilt and antique stores
- Kalona Chocolates
Before Heading Home
Take a scenic drive through Amish Country and stop for photos of the beautiful Iowa countryside.
Nearby Places to Visit From Kalona
Kalona makes a great base for exploring more of Eastern Iowa.
Amana Colonies
About 45 minutes away, the Amana Colonies offer German heritage, wineries, restaurants, and unique shopping.
Iowa City
Only about 30 minutes away, Iowa City offers:
- Restaurants
- Museums
- University of Iowa attractions
- Devonian Fossil Gorge
Cedar Rapids
About an hour away, Cedar Rapids offers:
- Brucemore
- Museums
- Restaurants
- Cultural attractions
Mount Vernon
A charming Eastern Iowa town known for:
- Cornell College
- Downtown shopping
- Historic charm
➡️ Best Things to Do in Mount Vernon, Iowa
Frequently Asked Questions About Kalona, Iowa
Why Kalona Belongs on Your Iowa Bucket List
Kalona is the kind of Iowa town that reminds you why small-town travel is so special.
It isn’t about rushing from one attraction to another. It’s about wandering through locally owned shops, enjoying homemade food, discovering pieces of history, and taking the scenic route.
Whether you’re planning an Iowa road trip, searching for a unique weekend getaway, or looking for charming small towns in Iowa to explore, Kalona deserves a spot on your list.
Bring your appetite, wear comfortable shoes, and give yourself plenty of time to slow down and enjoy everything this unforgettable Eastern Iowa destination has to offer.
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