If you’re seeking a truly authentic experience in Ohio’s Amish Country, look no further than the unique and immersive tours available just a short drive from The Inn at Honey Run. As the proprietor of our peaceful boutique resort, I’m often asked by guests for recommendations on the best ways to explore this rich and cultural region. Amish Country is a place where time slows down, and visitors can witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. From scenic buggy rides to farm visits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the top Amish tours and experiences, offering you a firsthand look at the simple, yet extraordinary lifestyle of our Amish neighbors.
1. Amish Buggy Rides: A Journey Back in Time
There’s no better way to experience the beauty of Amish Country than from the seat of an Amish buggy. The rhythmic clop of the horse’s hooves and the gentle sway of the buggy transport you to a simpler time. Several local tour companies offer authentic buggy rides, giving you a glimpse into Amish life. These rides often take you through the quiet, scenic backroads of Holmes County, allowing you to see Amish homes, farms, and schools up close.
One of the most popular places for buggy rides is Yoder’s Amish Home in Millersburg. Here, you can tour an Amish home and barn, and take a horse-drawn buggy ride with a knowledgeable Amish guide who will share insights into their way of life. You can also explore their bakery and gift shop, where fresh pies and handmade quilts are available for purchase.
2. Amish Farm Tours: Discover the Heart of Amish Life
For a deeper dive into Amish culture, consider visiting one of the many working Amish farms in the area. Farm tours offer a fascinating look into the everyday tasks and traditions that define Amish life, from milking cows and gathering eggs to blacksmithing and woodworking.
One of my personal favorites is The Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center in Berlin. Their Behalt Cyclorama, a 10-foot by 265-foot mural, tells the story of the Amish and Mennonite people through striking visual art. The center also offers a farm tour where you can see the traditional methods of farming still in use today, along with demonstrations of Amish crafts.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during harvest season, you might catch a glimpse of the Amish community working together to bring in the crops using horse-drawn plows and wagons—a truly humbling and beautiful sight.
3. Amish Culture Tours: Behind-the-Scenes with Local Artisans
Amish craftsmanship is known worldwide for its attention to detail and quality, and many local artisans offer tours of their workshops. These hands-on experiences allow visitors to see everything from furniture-making to candle-dipping and basket-weaving.
I often recommend Troyer’s Amish Tours, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the area’s most skilled artisans. During the tour, you’ll visit various family-owned shops, where you can purchase one-of-a-kind handmade items directly from the craftspeople who made them. Stops typically include Amish furniture makers, quilt shops, and basket weavers, all of whom use traditional techniques passed down through generations.
4. Visit an Amish Schoolhouse: Learn from the Inside
For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting an Amish schoolhouse. Many Amish children attend one-room schoolhouses until eighth grade, and you can see firsthand how they are taught in a setting that has changed little over the years.
Tours such as those offered by Amish Heartland Tours often include a stop at an Amish school, where you can meet with an Amish teacher and students. This experience provides a unique opportunity to learn about their educational system and the values they instill in their youth.
5. Amish Farm-to-Table Meals: Savor the Flavors of Amish Cooking
No trip to Amish Country is complete without indulging in a traditional Amish meal. Many local families offer farm-to-table experiences where guests are welcomed into their homes to share a meal. These dinners often include hearty, home-cooked favorites like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade bread, and pies.
One such experience is the Doughty Valley Steam Mill Amish Home Meal Tour. After a tour of their mill and farm, you’ll sit down to a delicious meal prepared using fresh, local ingredients. It’s a perfect way to connect with the Amish community and savor the flavors of Ohio’s Amish Country.
6. Amish Market Shopping: Take a Piece of Amish Country Home
A visit to one of the local Amish markets is a must during your stay. Places like the Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market and the Holmes County Flea Market offer an array of handmade goods, from furniture and quilts to baked goods and preserves. These markets are not only great for finding unique souvenirs, but they also offer a glimpse into the hard work and dedication of the Amish people.
When visiting these markets, be sure to look for products made with natural materials and traditional craftsmanship. You’ll find everything from hand-carved wooden furniture to intricate quilts and homemade candles.
Plan Your Amish Tour Adventure Today
Whether you’re looking to take a peaceful buggy ride, enjoy a hearty farm-to-table meal, or explore the craftsmanship of local artisans, Amish tours in Ohio offer a wide range of unforgettable experiences. At The Inn at Honey Run, we’re just minutes away from some of the best Amish Country tours, making it easy for you to immerse yourself in this unique culture during your stay.
As always, my team and I are here to help plan your perfect Amish Country adventure. We invite you to relax at our boutique inn, explore the beauty of our 56-acre property, and discover the rich traditions that make Ohio’s Amish Country so special.
Ready to plan your visit to Amish Country?
Book your stay at The Inn at Honey Run today, and let us create an unforgettable experience for you.