If you’re traveling through Ohio and want to experience real Amish country, skip the heavily trafficked tourist hubs and venture onto the back roads of Holmes and surrounding counties. Here, quaint farms, family-run businesses, and small communities offer an authentic glimpse into Amish life – from buggy rides through rolling farmland to homemade baked goods and handcrafted furniture.
Yoder’s Amish Home – Millersburg
Step back in time at Yoder’s Amish Home, a working farm in Millersburg that offers a peek into traditional Amish life. Guided tours of the historic homes and barns reveal the simplicity and functionality of Amish architecture.
Visitors can enjoy buggy rides, exploring the grounds with farm animals adding to the charm. The homestead also features a schoolhouse tour, offering insights into Amish education.
Yoder’s provides an authentic experience, blending history, culture, and nature seamlessly. It’s an inspiring visit for those eager to learn and connect with the Amish way of life.
Guided Backroads Buggy Tour – Amish Heartland Group Tours
Imagine the rhythmic clip-clop of horse hooves as you embark on a guided buggy tour with Amish Heartland Group Tours. This intimate journey takes you through serene rural landscapes, offering breathtaking views of lush farms and fields.
Your guide, an Amish resident, shares insights into everyday life, traditions, and the history of the settlements. The highlight of the tour is a visit to a working Amish farm, where you can observe traditional farming practices.
Ending with homemade cookies, this experience is both educational and delicious. The unique perspective offered by a local driver provides a rare glimpse into the heart of Ohio’s Amish community.
Amish Backroads Experience – The Inn at Honey Run
The Inn at Honey Run offers a delightful Amish Backroads Experience, blending comfort with cultural immersion. Guests are taken on hour-long buggy rides by a local Amish neighbor, unraveling the secrets of winding country roads.
These roads lead to hidden gems like roadside produce stands and scenic overlooks. Each ride comes with insider stories that paint a vivid picture of life in Amish country.
This adventure offers a relaxed pace, allowing time to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility found away from tourist hotspots. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking authenticity and peace.
Self-Guided Backroads Driving Tour
Navigate the hidden lanes of Ohio Amish country with a self-guided driving tour that’s full of surprises. Equipped with a map, follow hand-painted signs leading to charming roadside stands selling fresh produce, eggs, and unique crafts.
This adventure is all about discovery and spontaneity, as each turn reveals something new – a picturesque barn, a friendly farmer, or a quaint village.
The tour invites you to embrace the freedom of the open road while supporting local artisans and farmers. It’s an experience that caters to the curious and adventurous traveler.
Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery
Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery is more than just a place to buy delicious treats; it’s a slice of Amish life. With a petting zoo and a relaxed farm atmosphere, it offers a welcoming environment for families.
The bakery specializes in homemade goods, from pies to fresh bread, each crafted with care and tradition. Visitors can also browse seasonal produce and handmade items.
This farm and bakery exemplify the charm and warmth of the Amish community, making it a must-visit for those craving authenticity and taste. It’s a delightful stop for food lovers and families alike.
Weaver Ridge Surplus
Tucked away on a less-traveled road, Weaver Ridge Surplus is a hidden gem offering a unique shopping experience. This Amish-run grocery store is stocked with bulk foods, fresh produce, and a variety of local goods.
The atmosphere is devoid of the rush and commercialism found in larger stores, focusing instead on quality and community. Friendly faces and personal service are a staple here.
Exploring Weaver Ridge Surplus is like walking into a simpler time, where shopping is leisurely and personal connections matter. It’s a refreshing experience away from the bustling tourist spots.
Swiss Village Bulk Foods
Swiss Village Bulk Foods is a quintessential stop for those looking to shop like a local. This store offers a wide selection of bulk products, including grains, spices, and deli items.
The deli section is a favorite, with fresh-cut meats and cheeses drawing in regulars. The store’s charm lies in its authenticity, with an emphasis on quality and community engagement.
With thousands of products to explore, Swiss Village is a treasure trove for culinary enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine Amish shopping experience. It’s a cornerstone of the local community, cherished by all who visit.
Mt. Hope Auction
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mt. Hope Auction, an authentic Amish-run event that showcases the community’s agricultural roots. The weekly auctions feature livestock, produce, and more, each item reflecting the hard work and dedication of local farmers.
Special events, like the Christmas Auction on Black Friday, add excitement and variety to the experience. The auction is a lively gathering, filled with the sounds of bidding and the sight of bustling activity.
Attending the Mt. Hope Auction offers a genuine taste of Amish commerce and community spirit. It’s a memorable event for those interested in agriculture and tradition.
Home-Based Amish Craft Businesses
Venture off the beaten path and discover home-based Amish craft businesses, where artisans create beautiful, handcrafted items. Watch for discreet signs advertising furniture, quilts, or repairs, leading you to family-run workshops.
Purchasing directly from the artisans offers a personal connection to the craft, with each piece telling a story of skill and tradition. The quality and uniqueness of these items stand as a testament to the dedication of Amish craftsmanship.
These workshops provide a rare opportunity to see the creative process up close. Supporting these businesses means supporting a way of life rooted in hard work and artistry.
Smaller Local Markets – East Union Bulk Food (Orrville)
Avoid tourist-oriented markets and head to East Union Bulk Food in Orrville for an authentic shopping experience. This community-focused store offers a wide range of staples and local goods, catering primarily to residents.
The unpretentious atmosphere invites browsing and discovery, with friendly staff and an array of products that reflect the tastes and needs of the local community.
Shopping at East Union Bulk Food offers a glimpse into everyday Amish life, where simplicity and quality are prioritized. It’s a delightful exploration for those who appreciate genuine connections and local flavors.
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