The Kalona Historical Village

"Iowa’s Best Kept Secret Treasure"

About Us

The Kalona Historical Village is Iowa’s premier destination for exploring Amish, Mennonite, and local heritage. 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, enjoy guided Historical and Amish Tours, self-guided countryside tours, school field trips, and 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.

Our Story

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

Map of property with descriptions

Be a Supporter-
-Become a member
-Business Membership
-Support the Barn project

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 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

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!

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

Monday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Hours April -October 10 am -5 pm November - March 11am -3 pm
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

News

Join us at Kalona Historical Village for a special local history presentation!

📅 April 1st | 6 PM
🎤 Mike Houston presents “Civil War Images of Washington County”

🎟 Veterans & Members – FREE
🎟 Public – $5
(All proceeds support the new Washington County Military Museum.)

📞 319-656-3232 for details

Don’t miss this fascinating look at our local Civil War history!

Hop on over to Kalona Historical Village for an Easter Egg Hunt! 🐰🥚

📅 Saturday, April 4th
⏰ Doors open at 10 AM
📍 Kalona Historical Village Grounds

Bring the whole family for:
🐴 Pony Rides
🏰 Bounce House
🎨 Crafts & Games
🌭 Hot Dogs, Chips & Cookies

💛 Free Will Donation

For more information, call 319-656-3232.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Info

Tours
School Tours
Event Venue Rentals
Summer Camp Registration
Fall Festival Vendors
Memberships
Fundraiser Campaign
Iowa Illinois Quilt Study
Map

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/

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