12 Surprisingly Affordable Vacation Destinations Only A Few States Away

11. The Amana Colonies, IA: A Journey into Communal History

Step back in time with a visit to the Amana Colonies in Iowa, seven villages founded by German Pietists in the 19th century who lived a communal lifestyle for nearly a century. Today, these National Historic Landmark villages offer a unique glimpse into that heritage with preserved architecture, craft shops (woodworking, woolen mills), family-style restaurants serving traditional German-American food, and local wineries/breweries. It’s a peaceful, culturally rich, and generally very affordable escape offering a different slice of American history.