Site Navigation

Home
About
Services
Testimonials
Contact
News
FAQ

The Kalona Historical Village

"Iowa’s Best Kept Secret Treasure"

About Us

The Kalona Historical Village is a living tribute to the rich heritage of Amish, Mennonite, and local history in Kalona, Iowa. With 12 historic buildings and 4 thoughtfully curated museums, visitors are invited to explore the traditions, craftsmanship, and community spirit that shaped this region.

From immersive exhibits and cultural displays to guided countryside tours, private events, and school field trips, every experience is designed to connect you with the past in meaningful ways. Don’t forget to stop by our gift shop, where you’ll find locally made items and keepsakes that reflect the heart of Kalona.

Whether you're visiting for a quiet afternoon or a special event, The Kalona Historical Village offers a warm welcome and a journey through time you won’t forget.

Areas Served

What We Offer

Our Services include:

Exhibits: Step into a world where history comes alive through thoughtfully curated exhibits. From the intricate artistry of the Quilt Museum and Textile Museum to the charming nostalgia of Hummel History and Spool Cabinet Displays, each space tells a story of craftsmanship, culture, and community. Explore the Loom House, marvel at the Gem and Mineral Displays, and stroll through the immersive Streetscape Exhibit—a recreation of Kalona’s past that invites you to experience life as it once was.
History & Culture: Kalona’s roots run deep in tradition, faith, and resilience. Discover the rich tapestry of Amish History, the spiritual journey of Anabaptist History, and the enduring legacy of the Mennonite Museum. For those tracing their own heritage, the Genealogy resources offer a meaningful way to connect with the past and uncover personal stories woven into the region’s history.
Tours & Experiences: Whether you're seeking a quiet stroll or a guided adventure, Kalona offers a variety of ways to explore. Join one of our Historical Tours or Amish Tours for a deeper look into the area's unique traditions. Prefer to go at your own pace? Our Self-Guided Tours and scenic Countryside Tours let you experience the beauty and charm of Kalona on your own terms.
Education & Youth Programs: Learning comes to life at Kalona Historical Village. Our School Field Trips provide hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and appreciation for history. During the warmer months, Summer Camps invite children to engage with heritage through fun, interactive activities that blend education with adventure.
Events & Community Engagement: Kalona is more than a village—it’s a vibrant community. Throughout the year, we host Special Events that celebrate local culture, traditions, and creativity. The beloved Annual Fall Festival is a highlight, drawing visitors from near and far to enjoy crafts, food, music, and fellowship in a festive atmosphere.

Our Products include:

Gifts
Local Sauces
Amish Quilts
Old-Fashioned Candy
Quilts
Cookbooks
Woven Rugs
Books
Jams
BBQ and Hot Sauces
Locally-Made Items
Iowa Wines
Hot Jelly
Amish Baskets
Collectible Souvenirs
Vintage Glassware
Souvenirs
Local Authors
Amish Dolls
Amish Soap
Postcards

Testimonials

On 11/21/2025 Sharon Wright had this to say:
Lots of history, including historical buildings with period appropriate finishes. The rock/mineral collection is impressive. Can learn about spinning and weaving on a variety of looms and spinners, many of them quite old, all in working condition. The Train Depot has functional Morse code, but not many places it can connect to. Gift shop has woven items made on site and some really amazing mustard. My favorite is the Dill Pickle Mustard

On 11/4/2025 Heather J. had this to say:
Unassuming on the exterior, this was a hidden treasure! I spent hours and still have not read and listened to all the stories and information available! Definitely worth more than admission price asked! The gift shop has beautiful qualityhandcrafted items, souvenirs, and a great variety of sauces and jellies. I will be back!

On 10/31/2025 Christophe Cappaï had this to say:
(Translated by Google) If you're passing through, sign up for this tour; the staff are fantastic, and it's definitely worth it to discover an old Amiche village. (Original) A faire signé vous passez par là, le personnel est au top, la visite est vraiment a faire pour découvrir un ancien village Amiche

On 10/21/2025 Douglas Hooper had this to say:
My wife and I truly enjoyed our visit to Kalona Historical Village, and we appreciated the insight that Heather offered as we toured the exhibits in the main building. The museum doesn't just offer history in pictures and text. It makes history come alive with exhibits on Amish and Mennonite life. The buildings provide a glimpse of how the local residents lived. The quilt collection is beautiful. Go back in time and enjoy the trip.

On 10/18/2025 Beverly Carson had this to say:
Very interesting and informative. Enjoyed the look back at old times.

Contact Us

The Kalona Historical Village
715 D Ave Kalona, IA 52247
Phone: (319) 656-3232
Email: kalonatours@gmail.com

Where To Find Us

Payment Types Accepted

American Express, Personal Checks, Debit Cards, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Our Hours

Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.

Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

News

From August 20 to December 20, experience the exquisite hand appliqué quilts by Thuy Nguyen at The Kalona Historical Village! 🧵🖼️ These captivating works showcase breathtaking detail and exceptional artistry. Don't miss this opportunity to witness quilting at its finest!

Exciting Holiday Sale at The Kalona Historical Village! Enjoy a 25% discount on everything in our gift shop* until December 24th. It's the season to shop local and find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones. From artisan treasures to holiday decor, there's something for everyone—excluding books and wine. Visit us and make your holiday shopping special!

FAQ

What is The Kalona Historical Village?

The Kalona Historical Village is a living history museum in Kalona, Iowa, featuring 12 historic buildings and 4 museums that showcase the rich heritage of Amish, Mennonite, and local communities.

What can I see during my visit?

Visitors can explore immersive exhibits, including the Quilt Museum, Textile Museum, Mennonite Museum, and more. You'll also find displays on Amish history, Anabaptist traditions, handcrafted items, and historical artifacts.

Do you host school field trips or educational programs?

Absolutely. We welcome school field trips and offer summer camps designed to engage students with hands-on learning and historical exploration.

Is the village accessible for all visitors?

We strive to make our exhibits and buildings accessible. If you have specific needs, please contact us before your visit so we can assist you.

How can I learn more or plan my visit?

Visit our website or give us a call for more details, directions, and planning tips. We look forward to welcoming you!
https://kalonaiowa.org/