When the vacation you really want is one away from all of the hustle and bustle of modern-day life, Amish Country is the perfect place to find solace. Their culture provides a simpler, more straightforward way of life in a rural setting that will give you the break from fast-paced modern life.
Ohio and Pennsylvania are home to the country’s largest Amish populations. Their settlements dot the rural landscape and come together to make up what is called Amish Country. The religious and agricultural-based Amish culture shuns electricity and many aspects of modern life. They do, however, welcome visitors and enjoy sharing their way of life and products with the outside world. Take a look at what you can experience when visiting Amish Country.
Lancaster Balloon Rides, Bird in Hand, PA
Lancaster County is the most famous Amish settlement in the United States. A hot-air balloon ride gives you a bird’s eye view of the entire county. It’s the perfect combination of excitement and tranquility with breathtaking sights you will only find in Amish country.
End of the Commons General Store, Mesopotamia, OH
End of the Commons General Store was founded in 1840. It is the oldest general store in Ohio still in operation. They have hand-dipped ice cream, homemade fudge, penny candy, and more. Make sure to try their fry pies, a local delicacy. They are freshly baked and made with homemade dough and fillings.
Northwest Lancaster County River Trail, Columbia, PA
If you love nature and want some amazing views, you’ll love Northwest Lancaster County River Trail. The paved trail runs along the Susquehanna River. Sites along the trail include a few remaining river locks and the remains of Clay Iron Furnace.
Lancaster Central Market, Lancaster, PA
You will find plenty of farmer’s markets throughout Amish Country. Any of them are worth a visit. They offer a vast selection of homemade goods and fresh fruits and vegetables. Our favorite is Lancaster Central Market. They offer fantastic local fare and exclusive Amish gifts. This is the perfect place to try real Amish food at its very best.
The Farm at Walnut Creek, Sugarcreek, OH
The Farm at Walnut Creek is a working Amish Farm. Visitors can experience authentic farming methods and Amish culture, including farmhouses with non-electric baking, canning, and quilting methods. The farm has more than 500 animals and offers opportunities to buy real Amish goods.
The Inn at Honey Run, Millersburg, OH
While the area has plenty of nice hotels and bed and breakfast lodgings available, an ideal place to base your exploration of Amish Country is The Inn at Honey Run in Millersburg, Ohio. It features a lovely garden and terrace, providing rustic charm alongside modern amenities.
The Amish Village, Ronks, PA
The Amish Village gives you a glimpse into the Amish way of life. There are demonstrations of traditional Amish crafts and recipes. Tour an authentic Amish farmhouse where you can learn about local agriculture or see a traditional one-room schoolhouse while you’re there.
Wolf Sanctuary of PA, Lititz, PA
Animal lovers can visit the Wolf Sanctuary of PA and support a great cause. The 80-acre sanctuary is home to more than 50 rescued gray wolves and other wolf dogs. Tours of the facility raise funds to sustain the non-profit and continue to provide shelter for these animals taken from environments not suited for them.
Landis Valley Villages & Farm Museum, Lancaster, PA
For a more historic take on the area, visit Landis Valley Villages & Farm Museum. This living museum focuses on the rural history of Pennsylvania. It brings to life the Pennsylvania German way of life from 1740 until 1940 through architecture, exhibits, and costumed interpreters.
Walnut Creek Cheese, Walnut Creek, OH
One specialty food store not to be missed is Walnut Creek Cheese & Market. They have an incredible selection of cheeses and other local products. Their jams, jellies, spreads, and meats are a great way to take a piece of Amish Country home with you. They also make wonderful gifts.
Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen, Mt. Hope, OH
You’ve probably noticed that food is a big thing in Amish Country. Meals bringing a family to the table are central to the life here. For an authentic Amish meal, come to Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen for a hearty buffet, delicious fresh baked pies, and their amazing at-home atmosphere.
Sight & Sound Theater, Lancaster, PA
It’s not Broadway, but founded in 1976, Sight & Sound Theater provides entertainment to the local Lancaster community. The original theater was lost to a fire in 1997 but has since been rebuilt. Tagged “where Biblical stories come to life”, it is a great place to experience the Lancaster community.
Holmes County Tours, Millersburg, Ohio
Private and group tours of Holmes County Ohio can be arranged through several groups, the most popular is Amish Heartland Group Tours in Millersburg, Ohio. Tours can include home and farm tours, area bus tours, and tours of local businesses including flea markets, bakeries, and other shops.
Amish Buggy Rides, Bird in Hand, PA
When traveling through Amish Country, stay alert for horse horse-drawn buggies on the road. If you’re curious about this way of getting around, go for your own buggy ride. Aaron and Jessica’s Buggy Rides in Bird in Hand, PA can show you around Lancaster County in true Amish style.
Lehman’s Hardware, Dalton, OH
We’re willing to bet that you have never seen anything like Lehman’s Hardware in Dalton, Ohio. In Lehman’s, you will find all types of antique-style appliances and retro home furnishings necessary for many Amish homes. There are also non-electric kitchenware and vintage toys that will take you back to days past.
The Old Candle Barn, Intercourse, PA
Many people visit this area just to purchase handmade goods. One of the most popular goods is hand-dipped candles. Some of the best candles are found at the Old Candle Barn. From decorative to utilitarian, they have it all and have been doing it right for over 40 years. Stop by the Old Candle Barn in Intercourse, PA.
Peaceful Valley Amish Furniture, Ronks, PA
The Amish are known worldwide for their well-crafted and durable furniture. Amish made furniture often becomes heirloom pieces in family collections due to its timeless design and unique durability. Don’t expect cheap prices, though. In this case, you can count on getting what you pay for.
Amish Door Restaurant, Wilmot, OH
The Amish Door prides itself in over a half-century of hospitality and down home goodness. It is a rare place where a family can dine in a true Amish setting with the best of fine restaurant service. There is also an Inn, market, and bakery to visit here.
Helping Hands Quilt Shop, Berlin, OH
Helping Hands Quilts is Berlin’s original quilt shop. Open for more than 50 years, they carry finished quilts as well as quilting supplies. In addition to quilts, you will also find plenty of fabric, and products like pillows, table runners, and wall hangings available at Helping Hands.
Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park, Lancaster, PA
Dutch Wonderland is a kid-focused amusement park perfect for any family getaway. It features a castle, rides, and a dino dig where you can dig for fossils. The theme park is open in the summer months but in the winter it turns into a magical wonderland of lights and festive music.
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