Our Guide: Nearby Attractions | Amish Country Itineraries | Scenic Byways |
Holmes Co. Bike/Hike Trail | Amish Furniture & Quilts

Covering many of Holmes County’s country roads, the Ohio Amish Country Scenic Byway introduces you to the region that is home to the world’s largest Amish settlement. Rolling hills, pristine farms, historic Millersburg and the frequent sightings of horse and buggy await the visitor. Portions of this 76-mile scenic byway have been designated as a National Scenic Byway by the Federal Highway Administration along Routes 39, 62, 515 and 60. Get a map when you check into the Inn at Honey Run.

Allow four to six hours to cover. Because of the unique agriculture and culture of Amish Country, you must share the road with Amish buggies, agriculture equipment, cyclists, etc. The two-lane state routes and State Road 62 should be traveled at a somewhat slower pace than most paved roads. Keep in mind that many services are not available on Sundays. Roads are sometimes bad in the winter because of ice or snow.

More Details: "Wilkum" to the Ohio Amish Country Byway. Discover the cultural and historic treasures of the Amish and northern Appalachian people around the winding curves and over the hills along scenic countrysides. Travel this charming country byway and experience simple living and the interaction of Amish and English community life - a bygone era still present.  

The Amish have established themselves in the Holmes County area, and it is estimated that one in every six Amish in the world live in this area. The Amish choose to live a simple way of life, which is clearly evident by the presence of horses and buggies, handmade quilts, and lack of electricity in Amish homes. Entrepreneurial businesses owned by the Amish add to the friendly atmosphere along the byway while creating a welcome distance from the superstores of commercial America. In the 21st century, the Amish Country Byway is an important example of a multicultural community, as both the Amish and non-Amish traditions are strong in the region. These two cultures have built on similarities while still respecting differences. By working together, they have created a thriving, productive community.

The Amish, as a branch of the Anabaptist people, are traditionally devout and religious. Like so many other immigrants, they came to America in search of religious freedom. In Europe, the Anabaptists had been persecuted for their beliefs, but today Amish beliefs are more accepted and laws have been passed protecting their rights in regard to education, Social Security, and military service. Horses and buggies, plain dress, independence from electricity, homemade quilts, spinning tops, and lots of reading materials are some of the things you might find in an Amish home. A community event, such as a barn raising, helps build relations among neighbors and is an efficient way to get work done.

Another important aspect of the byway is the influence of early Native Americans and Appalachian folklore. The presence of both is felt along the byway, as festivals and parades, such as the Killbuck Early American Days Festival, celebrate these early settlers. Coalfields and stone quarries drew settlers from the east, and today this influence is manifested in the strong mining and manufacturing industries in the area.

Agriculture is the economic heart of Amish Country, and visitors to the area are likely to see rows of haystacks or fields being plowed. Holmes County boasts the second largest dairy production in the state, the largest local produce auction during the growing season, and weekly livestock auctions in the communities along the byway. The Swiss and German heritage of the early settlers in the county is evident in the many specialty cheese and meat products and delicious Swiss/Amish restaurants. A variety of festivals and local produce stands along the byway allow visitors to taste a part of Amish Country. Agriculture-based auctions are held regularly at the Mount Hope, Farmerstown, and Sugarcreek sale barns, and specialty sales are held throughout the year at various times.

When the Amish settled in the area, most depended on agriculture as their profession, but others who were not farmers worked instead in blacksmith shops, harness shops, or buggy shops. In addition, many specialties sprang up, such as furniture-making. Today, shops are scattered along the byway, specializing in everything from furniture to gazebos.

The Ohio Amish Country Byway is not one for speed demons. By slowing down, you get to experience the many recreational opportunities that are unique to this byway. There are carriage rides, hay rides, and sleigh rides that reflect the agricultural traditions of the area, while unique activities, such as hot air balloon rides and airplane rides, may also be enjoyed. One of the most popular activities is visiting Amish homesteads and farms, antique shops, and museums. In addition, you can find many places to stop and enjoy some good cooking or shopping.

The Holmes County Trail goes through Millersburg and links the byway with the northern part of the county and state. This trail is open to bicycles, hikers, and buggies. The local Amish citizens who sit on the Rails to Trails board provide valuable insight into how to make this a success for the Amish, their non-Amish neighbors, and visitors. This trail travels through beautiful Amish Country and is a good way to get off of the main byway route.

Another way to get off the main byway route is to use the area's river and creek network. These rivers and creeks were critically important to the transportation and commerce of the past, and today they provide a great opportunity for visitors to go canoeing, swimming, boating, or fishing. The Killbuck Creek feeds into Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area, which also provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. Tucked away on the western edge of the byway, the Mohican River is the basis for making this one of the most popular recreational retreats in the state of Ohio. Canoeing is especially popular along the river; this area has been coined the Camp and Canoe Capital of Ohio.