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The Kalona Historical Village
"Iowa’s Best Kept Secret Treasure"
About Us
The Kalona Historical Village is Iowa’s premier destination for exploring local heritage and the Amish & Mennonite culture. A living tribute to the region’s history, the Village features 12 historic buildings and 4 thoughtfully curated museums, showcasing traditions, craftsmanship, and community spirit that have shaped Kalona. Visitors can explore immersive exhibits, cultural displays, and streetscape recreations while exploring Kalona’s heritage throughout the grounds and learning about Amish and Mennonite history in the Mennonite Museum. Guests can also enjoy a self-guided tour of the property, schedule a private guided tour of the countryside, participate in school tours, and host private events.
Established in 1969 with the relocation of the original train depot, the Kalona Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by a dedicated volunteer board. Throughout the year, the Village hosts special events, including the Annual Fall Festival and milestone celebrations such as the 250th anniversary. The gift shop offers locally made items, keepsakes, and souvenirs, making every visit a meaningful journey through time and Iowa’s rich heritage.
ADMISSIONS
April-October ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------November-March
Adults $15.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adults $12.00
Veterans $7.50 Celebrating the 250th --------------------------------------------------------Veterans $6.00
Youth 7-12 $5 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Youth 7-12 $3
6 and under Free ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 and under Free
Our Story
ADMISSIONS
April-October ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------November-March
Adults $15.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Adults $12.00
Veterans $7.50 Celebrating the 250th --------------------------------------------------------Veterans $6.00
Youth 7-12 $5 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Youth 7-12 $3
6 and under Free ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 and under Free
The Kalona Historical Society was established in 1969 with the relocation of the original train depot. The society is a 501c3 non-profit run by a volunteer board.
Take a step back into time and visit 12 authentic buildings from the 1800’s. Each building is restored and filled with interesting artifacts and informative displays depicting the rugged years of our immigrant settlers spent taming the Iowa prairie.
See what farming life was like in our agriculture building and take a look inside the 1800’s barn that was recently moved onto the property.
Be amazed by the history before Kalona existed then with the arrival of the train how Kalona grew and even with fires fought back to become a thriving town, see this in Wahl Museum.
The Mennonite Museum will tell you the history of the Amish and Mennonite of Iowa through their displays.
Our visitors center houses an amazing quilt collection showing different rotating displays of Amish and non Amish quilts from the early 1800’s to the mid-1900’s, the Reif Gem and Mineral display including a fascinating fluorescent exhibit, and each year we have rotating displays within our showcases, this year celebrating the 250th Anniversary of our country.
2026 Board Members
President - Colette Yoder
Vice President - Jim Miller
Secretary - Eva Kuykendall
Treasurer - Claudia Bishop
Executive Director - Steve Reif
Director - Martha Ann Crawford
Director - Carol Mayer
Director - Helen Slechta
Director - Nate Fick
Director - Michael Eash
Director - James Crowther
Director - Scott Allen
Director - Ethan Kos
Director - Jake Snider
Director - Wendy Sorrell
Areas Served
Washington County, IA | Henry County, IA | Johnson County, IA | Kalona, IA | Washington, IA | Iowa City, IA | Riverside, IA | Wellman, IA
What We Offer
Our Specialties include:
- Amish & Mennonite cultural education
- Historical preservation
- Living history exhibits
- Heritage tourism
- Community storytelling
- Historic building restoration
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 6/30/2026
Lola Lattan
had this to say:
Very informative and friendly
On 6/10/2026
Joe M. Brabeck
had this to say:
Nice local museum
On 2/25/2026
Cynthia Hampton
had this to say:
Beautiful better to come in spring time
On 12/27/2025
Rachel Albrecht
had this to say:
Amazing staff, wonderful displays, TONS of information you could explore for days, lots of unique and local items in the gift shop, a GREAT museum and experience!
On 12/7/2025
Kimberly Pauley
had this to say:
Great time in Kalona! Hot cocoa, firepits on corners with singing! All the merchants super friendly! First time there I would highly recommend
Contact Us
The Kalona Historical Village
715 D Ave Kalona, IA 52247
Phone: (319) 656-3232
Email: kalonatours
Where To Find Us
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Payment Types Accepted
American Express, Personal Checks, Debit Cards, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Our Hours
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
🇺🇸 Step Back in Time with a Civil War Era Meal 🇺🇸Join Kalona Historical Village for a unique dining experience that brings history to life! Enjoy a Civil War-era inspired meal while supporting an exciting cause—raising funds for a new military museum on our grounds.
🗓️ Saturday, August 1, 2026
⏰ Seating at 5 PM & 7 PM
💲 $35 donation
This special event is hosted in partnership with Mike Zahs and offers a memorable way to connect with history while giving back to our community.
📞 Reservations are required — Call 319-656-3232 to reserve your spot today!
🎉 Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at Kalona Historical Village! Explore Washington County stories, photos, uniforms, & artifacts. Enjoy lectures, reenactments, and more. Don’t miss these amazing exhibits—open through December 2026! 🇺🇸✨
Step back in time at Kalona Historical Village! On October 17th at 2pm, Caedyn Houston will share his passion for WWII history by dressing as a soldier and giving a glimpse into daily life during the war. All proceeds support the new Washington County Military Museum—don’t miss this unique experience!
Info
School ToursBusiness Memberships
General Membership Form
Event Venue Rentals
Fundraiser Campaign
Fall Fesitval Vendor App
Map
FAQ
Includes 2 destination locations
Approximately 45 minutes spent at each location.
For your own group of 12 or more people you can customize your group tour of Kalona.
leave hungry.
Approximately 45 minutes spent at each location.
For your own group of 12 or more people you can customize your group tour of Kalona.
Approximately 45 minutes spent at each location.
For your own group of 12 or more people you can customize your group tour of Kalona.
Approximately 45 minutes spent at each location.
For your own group of 12 or more people you can customize your group tour of Kalona.
• AMISH FIELD OPERATION
• BUNKER MILL BRIDGE HISTORIC SITE
• AMISH COUNTRY STORE
• CONSERVATIVE MENNONITE PROGRAM
• CREEKSIDE E-BIKES
• FARMERS HEN HOUSE
• GOLDEN DELIGHT BAKERY
• JK CREATIVE WOOD G GIFTS
• KALONA BUGGY SHOP
• KALONA CHOCOLATES
• KALONA CREAMERY
• KALONA HISTORICAL • VILLAGE
• AMISH CASKET MAKER
• KALONA QUILT G TEXTILE MUSEUM
• KALONA SALE BARN
• LOCAL FABRIC SHOPS G HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
• MAX-CAST SCULPTURE FOUNDRY
• OLD MANS CREEK WINERY
• STRINGTOWN GROCERY G PRODUCE
2. Reservations must be made at least 2 weeks prior to your tour date, payment in full required 14 days prior when a final head count is provided.
3. The mode of transportation you bring to Kalona is the method of travel you will use to tour, we do not provide transportation.
4. We reserve the right to cancel any tour for any reason out of our control.
5. You may select the destinations you prefer to visit, but many are mom & pop operated and as such may not be available on the date you select.
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