Tannenbaum Forest (Amana Colonies)

Tannenbaum Forest fills the Festhalle Barn in the Amana Colonies with more than 80 live Christmas trees, supplied by Amana Forestry and decorated by local businesses, families and organizations. Some trees are elegant, some whimsical, some themed around characters or the groups that sponsored them. A 17-foot German Christmas pyramid turns slowly at the center, joined by a large nativity scene, and Santa visits on select days. Donations benefit the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital and local nonprofits.

Our take: Past seasons paired the forest with a Hot Beverage Sample Walk and Pickle Hunt that lead you through Amana's shops, so ask at the barn.