amish country tour pa

Open 9am-6pm, 7 days a week. Bus tours at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm. Reservations highly recommended!

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717.394.6185

Want to make a same day reservation? Please call us at 717-394-8185.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have! Email us at [email protected]

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Tours and Pricing

Families, schools, youth groups, international travelers, and local Lancaster-area residents visit the Amish Farm and House to immerse themselves in Lancaster’s Amish culture and to learn how life for Amish folks has evolved in modern times.

During our tours you will get answers to questions, such as:

• Why do the Amish not drive cars or use electricity?
• Where do the Amish live and work?
• How can you tell if a home is Amish-owned?
• What crops do Amish farmers grow?

Our tours are unscripted and conversational, and our guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and trained to help you learn and have a great time. We’re also proud to have been featured on The Today Show. Watch the video here to see why The Amish Farm and House was chosen to be on the show. Come experience the Amish way of life with us and make lasting memories with your family and friends.

Quick Facts About Tours

• All Amish Farm and House tour buses are air conditioned
• We have tour buses that are handicapped-accessible
• We offer guided Amish countryside bus tours, guided farmhouse tours, group tours, and self-guided farm tours
• We offer a pickup and drop off service from the Lancaster Amtrak Station and area hotels. Contact us to reserve a pick up.
• We are pet friendly, bring your four-legged friend for a tour!
• Our guides are not Amish but are well-versed and trained in Amish culture.
• For our international guests, we offer written translations in 19 different languages.
• Free parking and ample room for motor coaches and RVs
• Open daily, year-round, including Sundays

At-a-Glance Pricing

Get at-a-glance pricing and summaries of our Amish country bus tours, guided farmhouse tour, and more.

Reservations: Some tours require a reservation. Please see tour details below for more information about reservation requirements.

• Adult (ages 12-59)
• Senior (ages 60+)
• Child (ages 5-11)
• Toddler/Baby (ages 0-4)

Farm Visits

Self-guided farm only visit.

All of our guided tours include access to our 15-acre farm. However, if you’re not interested in learning about the Amish but would like to spend the day on the farm, this option is perfect!

This visit is self-guided. We will give you a map of the farm and you can explore it at your leisure. This ticket is an all-day pass to the farm!

Learn more about what is on our farm. 

Price: Adults (12+) $11.00  Children (ages 5-11) $8.00  Toddlers (0-4) Free

Approx Time:

Price Range:

$8.00-$11.00

Reservations not needed.

Purchase tickets upon arrival.

See Details

Farm Animal Fun Tour Limited Edition

Small group farm tours

Enjoy a fun morning with farm animals!

Find out what it’s like to work on a farm. Be prepared to get a little dirty, have a lot of fun, and learn something new. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to hold a chicken, feed a calf or have a steer come running excitedly up to you (don’t worry he’s friendly, we promise!) then put your boots on, grab a feed bucket and let’s get busy! This tour is geared toward children.

Possible activities include:

• bottle feeding a calf (when available)
• gathering eggs
• feeding our sheep, alpaca and horses
• cuddling our baby goats
• Animal Interaction

$20.00-$25.00

Guided Farmhouse Tour

Tour through our historic farmhouse where an Amish family once lived and worked. Learn about Amish culture and beliefs from our in-house tour guide.

• Reservations ARE NOT accepted, you can walk-in and buy your tickets at the front desk.
• 30 minute guided tour through the 1805 farmhouse located on our farm and access to our 15-acre farm.

Toddler (ages 0-4): We do not recommend the guided house tours for toddlers, as they may not have the attention span yet to make it through a 30-minute museum-style lecture tour. Please consider our Farm Only Pass instead.

• Schoolhouse

$9.95-$13.95

See Details Book Now

Guided Countryside Bus Tours

Premium tour package reservation recommended.

Countryside Bus Tour + Farmhouse Tour + Farm Visit

Take a guided countryside bus tour and a guided tour through our authentic Amish farmhouse, led by a knowledgeable tour guide. Coming today? Call us for same-day reservations, we have availability.

• 90 min bus tour guided by a knowledgeable driver
• Stops at Amish stores while on the bus tour (not available on Sundays or Amish holidays)
• 30 min guided house tour through our farmhouse (There is a flight of stairs included in this tour)
• Self-guided tour of our 15-acre farm and Amish one-room schoolhouse
• Most Popular

$12.95-$35.95

Classic Bus Tour Reservation Recommended

Countryside Bus Tour + Farm Visit

$12.95-$27.95

Sunset Dinner Tour on an Amish Farm Limited Edition

Sunset Dinner + Dessert and Conversation

We are currently booking Sunset Dinner Tours for select Fridays and Saturdays through August 31.

3:00pm 15-acre Farm Visit

3:45pm 1805 Farmhouse Tour

5:00pm Countryside Tour & Dinner

6:30pm Dessert & Conversation

7:00pm Return to our Farm

Please note: You are welcome to tour our 15-acre farm until dark.

$12.95-$60.00

Now booking select Fridays/Saturdays through August 31.

Group Tours

Have a group of 15 or more? Then a Group Tour is for you! A reservation is required for group tours. Call or contact us to learn more.

Available Group Tours:

• Guided Farmhouse Tour: Tour through our historic farmhouse where an Amish family once lived and worked.
• Step-On Tours: Our highly-trained guide will “step on” to your group’s motor coach as you tour the picturesque Lancaster County countryside.
• Willow Lane One-Room School: Your guide will explain a typical day, explain more about the education system and give your group a more hands-on experience.
• Self-Guided Farm Visit: Your group can stroll our 15-acre farm at your leisure, visit farm animals, and interact with local artisans (farm access is included with any ticket purchase).

Please make a reservation for your group prior to your arrival. Call 717-394-6185 or complete our Group Tours Reservation form to get started.

$1.00 Off Each House Tour or Countryside Bus Tour Ticket

Valid up to six (6) people. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Does not apply to group rates. Only one coupon per transaction.

$2.00 Off Each Premium Bus Tour Ticket

$1.00 off any house or bus tour for aaa members only..

Valid up to six (6) people. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Does not apply to group rates. Only one coupon per family. Guests MUST show their valid AAA card to the front desk at the time of the tour.

$1.00 off any House or Bus Tour Option for Military Families

Valid up to six (6) people. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Does not apply to group rates. Only one coupon per family. Military Member/Veteran MUST show proper I.D. desk at the time of the tour.

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• The Amish Experience

The Amish Experience is open every day except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9:30am to 5:00pm.  Sundays, 11:30am to 5:00pm.  Group Tour reservations welcome any time.  Now through June 30, 2024 we are pleased to offer a Summer Family Package Special.  One flat rate of $120 covers an entire family of up to 6 people regardless of age for the Super Saver Package.  More details about the Super Saver Package can be found here .

Join Jacob Fisher and the rest of his fictional Amish family to discover what it means to be Amish in the compelling five-screen, special-effect film, “Jacob’s Choice.”  Learn more…

AMISH HOUSE & SCHOOL

Tour the Amish Country Homestead & One-room School for a guided look at how Lancaster’s Amish of today live at home. Discover life without electricity, plain dress, and one-room school education. Learn more…

Explore back country roads through Amish farmland with expert local guides.  Ride in comfort onboard our climate-controlled 14 passenger minibuses for a 90 minute guided tour. Learn more…

Amish VIP (Visit-in-Person) Tour

Visit three authentic Amish farms not normally open to visitors.  Go inside an Amish dairy farm at milking time, discover how Amish who don’t farm make a living running small businesses, and sit down in an Amish home to ask questions first-hand. Learn more…

Meal in an Amish Home Experience

Join us for an authentic Amish-made meal, served in an Amish home.  This experience starts with a backroads journey on our 14 passenger bus, as our guide sets the stage for the bountiful meal.  Roundtrip, narrated transportation, and the meal is included. Learn more…

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1 Day Tour of Amish Country, Pennsylvania

It took Adam and I about three hours to make the drive from our home in the Washington, DC area to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. A three-hour drive is just short enough that we don’t usually break up the ride with a stop, but it’s long enough that we’re always anxious to park the car and stretch our legs at our destination. As I planted my feet on the pavement and stretched through my torso when we arrived at our first stop, I locked my gaze on a pair of women wearing dark dresses and aprons carrying vegetables into nearby building. Beyond them, a buggy pulled by two horses crossed the road.

Amish County, or Pennsylvania Dutch Country, is the oldest Amish settlement in the United States. Visiting the picturesque countryside is, indeed, like stepping back into a world that existed a century or two ago. In between modern conveniences like grocery stores and restaurants, huge working farms serve as the economic backbone for the families residing there. Drivers of modern cars are careful as they pass horses and buggies as well as children on bicycles and scooters. Men in straw hats tend to their fields and animals, and women in long dresses sew, bake, and care for children.

Our visit was a lot of fun. We learned a lot about the history, culture, and beliefs of the Amish people, and after a great tour and some time exploring the area we both developed a genuine appreciation for the steadfast, devout community we encountered. If you have never heard of the Amish before—or if you are wondering if a trip to Pennsylvania Dutch Country would be worthwhile—here’s what you need to make the most of your visit!

Who Are the Amish?

Although they are called the Pennsylvania Dutch, the Amish originally came to the USA after being forced out of Switzerland. The group takes their name from Jakob Ammann, recognized as their leader. They share many similarities with the Mennonites, who also left Europe for the USA; however, a primary difference between the two groups is that the Amish are more conservative and will excommunicate, or shun, any member of their community who does not abide by their societal norms. The Mennonites do not promote such extremes in their own communities.

The Amish arrived in Philadelphia in the 18th century and eventually settled in Lancaster County, with groups moving to other locations throughout the country. They chose Pennsylvania because the state promised religious freedom, a welcome change from the persecution they faced in Europe. Today, there are close to 308,000 Amish—or Plain People, as they call themselves—in North America, making their homes in 31 states and four Canadian provinces. The largest communities are in Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, with Lancaster County housing 35,000 Amish people.

► Religion

The Amish are Anabaptists, which means they practice adult baptism. They believe adults should make a conscious choice to be baptized, something they cannot do of free will as children. Children are raised as part of families and communities with shared values, and as they approach adulthood they are given the choice to be baptized into the church or to become “English,” the Amish term a non-Anabaptist. This period, called rumspringa, describes the period of time between when a child turns 16 and their baptism. While movies like Kingpin and TV shows like Breaking Amish have characterized this time as one where Amish children run wild and break the rules, that’s not typical of the experience. It’s more often a time of increased socialization, where children are allowed to attend more events and may begin dating. While they may gain more exposure to technology and the English way of life, most Amish children decide to be baptized into the church instead of leaving the community behind.

If a child does not decide to be baptized, he or she is not shunned by the family. While most parents certainly hope their children decide to become baptized, children who do not can continue to maintain close relationships with their family and friends. However, if someone who is baptized breaks their commitment to the church or fails to adhere to the church’s regulations, they may be excommunicated, or shunned. While they are forgiving and will hear a confession of sin and apology, church leaders can vote to shun one of their own, which means a loss of status in the community. Shunned people cannot even have a meal with Amish family; the consequences of violating the church’s rules are severe.

The Amish do not worship in churches; instead, church is held in individual homes, and a family may host their entire community for a service once or twice a year. With 200-250 people attending, most people have a large room in their home reserved just for big gatherings. The church community supplies long benches to the host family, and the benches are delivered via a horse and buggy for the community to sit on during the service. Services are held every other Sunday, which means only twice each month. On alternate Sundays, they visit friends around the area, which is the single day of rest they enjoy during a two week period. The services are not conducted in English; instead, they are given in Pennsylvania Dutch, which is a German dialect that is also taught in schools.

► Family and Home Life

Next to religion, family is the most important part of the Amish experience. Amish families are large—most have seven or more children. They place more emphasis on a family’s identity than individuality.

Traditionally, most women marry in their late teens or early twenties, and men are a bit older than that. Weddings are most often held on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the late fall, which avoids any interruptions to the summer harvest season. Upon their marriage, men are permitted to grow a beard, which they never cut—the length of a man’s beard can shed some insight into how long he has been married! Typically, they have large families, and children are formally educated in one-room schoolhouses until the eighth grade, when they shift away from the classroom and begin to learn their role as part of the family.

Amish homes are, in a word, efficient. Because they do not use or rely on electricity, typically their lives unfold in the home’s kitchen, which is often the only heated room in any house. Without electricity, their appliances run off propane—in fact, some appliance manufactures have developed special models specifically for the Amish community, including washing machines sold by Maytag that run off propane.

The Amish follow a concept called Ordnung, which is the German word for order. They do not use electricity, they do not own televisions or have the Internet in their homes, and while communities do have access to telephones, the phones are not inside a residence—they are kept outside in phone booths. Even though they avoid technology to some degree they don’t view technology is evil; however, they do believe it can corrupt family values and pull apart the threads that weave a community together.

I was surprised to learn they don’t avoid all modern conveniences. They do not own cars, but they can be passengers in them; they are also able to use buses and trains. Flying is out of the question, though; they believe they should be on the ground at all times. Although they are predominantly farmers who grow crops, sell them, and can them, they also shop at grocery stores and eat in restaurants. One thing they do avoid are cameras. Pictures are out of the question for the Amish, as they do not allow graven images (which can lead to vanity). Some also believe that if you look into a camera when a photo is taken it can steal your soul.

A Daytrip to Amish Country

While you can spend far more than a single day in Pennsylvania’s Amish Country, one day is enough time to explore and learn about their culture!

► Take an Amish Country Tour

There are a few different companies that offer tours of Amish country, and many of them operate similar itineraries. We visited the Amish Village (based on pricing and scheduling), and we had a terrific afternoon with them! We enjoyed a great tour of a former Amish home now owned by the Amish Village but preserved in such a way that it’s still reflective of what a traditional home would look like today. The tour walked us through the room used for church services and large gatherings, the kitchen, and the bedrooms. We also took a 90-minute bus ride through some of Amish Country’s back roads, and our driver Paul provided an incredible amount of insight into the homes and farms we passed. My favorite was a small house owned by a woman in her late 80s; Paul pointed out her modest flower garden, and as the bus passed the house he noted she also maintained an enormous field of crops!

Our tour stopped twice, each time at an Amish-run farm stand, and we had a chance to sample pretzels and purchase goods made by the families. We couldn’t pass up a jar of spicy pickles, and I had to stifle a laugh when a brother and sister behind the counter fought over who would wrap it in newspaper and place it in a bag for me. No matter where you are or what your family background or beliefs may be, siblings arguing are something to which everyone can relate!

The Amish Village also had a nice area with farm animals, a replica of a one-room schoolhouse, and a few shops, which really rounded out our experience. I especially enjoyed seeing the animals, specifically the peacocks. I was surprised that Amish families would keep what I considered to be an exotic animal as a pet. As it turns out, peacocks make a loud, unmistakable screaming noise when they are startled, so they are wonderful alarm systems!

More Information: AmishVillage.com

► Enjoy the Food

You will not go hungry in Amish Country. We were stuffed by the end of the afternoon! If you are planning a visit, don’t miss these favorites:

Lunch . Amish cuisine is basically hearty comfort food; expect fried chicken, beef, mashed potatoes, boiled vegetables, and bread. We had lunch at Dienner’s, an Amish-style restaurant with a buffet that allowed us to sample a few different dishes. Amish food is not big on spices but has plenty of flavor, so be sure to have a meal at a local restaurant while you are there. Katie’s Kitchen is another great Amish owned and operated family restaurant to try during your visit.

More Information: Dienners.com More Information: KatiesAmishKitchen.com

Whoopie Pies . My mom’s side of my family is from Maine , and when it comes to Whoopie Pies, Maine and Pennsylvania have a friendly argument over where the dessert was first created. I have to side with Maine in that battle, but I can attest to the fact Whoopie Pies in Amish Country are very tasty. For the uninitiated, Whoopie Pies are two circular cake slices with cream filling in the middle. We tried a classic chocolate cake as well as an oatmeal Whoopie Pie, and both were soft, flavorful, and creamy. Almost every bakery had Whoopie Pies , and often they are only $1.00!

Shoofly Pie . Shoofly Pie is basically a molasses crumb pie: a delicious molasses filling topped with sugary crumbs. There are two versions, including the dry-bottomed pie that is baked longer for a more cake-like consistency, and the wet-bottomed version that has a stickier crust. We tried the wet-bottomed version at both Dutch Haven and Bird-In-Hand Bakery. Dutch Haven is a touristy stop that specializes in souvenirs and furniture, but visitors get a free sample of Shoofly Pie for stopping in to shop. Bird-In-Hand Bakery has dozens of tasty baked goods for sale, not the least of which is Shoofly Pie and Whoopie Pie.

More Information: Bird-In-Hand.com/Bakery More Information: DutchHaven.com

► Get Lost and Explore

Some of the most fun we had was just driving around Lancaster County. After our bus tour, we could easily tell the difference between Amish homes and English homes, and we had a great time exploring and enjoying the picturesque countryside. Knowing that they are community-focused, we had a great time driving away from the tourist destinations and observing the homes and farms that are so central to their lives and livelihood.

Hotels in Amish Country

Planning a trip to Amish County, or Pennsylvania Dutch Country? There are plenty of hotels in the area, but Harrisburg is the largest city close to Amish Country and it’s a great place to start your adventure! Here are some deals to consider.

Visit Amish Country

A visit to Amish Country may feel like a trip back in time at first, but very quickly you’ll start to understand that just because they live and dress more simply than we’re accustomed to doing does not make them more primitive. I found their commitment to their families and communities refreshing and inspiring. Although I won’t be giving up my cell phone or TV anytime soon, I did find a number of practices and traits I would like to incorporate into my own life after witnessing the impact simplicity has on their lives. A good travel experience should encourage you to discover and embrace new ideas, and we learned a lot from our visit to Amish Country!

Have you spent time exploring Amish Country? Leave a comment below and let us know about your experience!  

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* From time to time, our travels are directly impacted by a service or company. This post includes our candid review of our experience at various shops and locations. We selected these locations based on our own research and travel needs; we were not offered and did not receive compensation of any kind from them or any other party in exchange for our review. Learn more about our travel philosophy here .

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The Unique Tour That Will Take You Deep Into Pennsylvania Amish Country Like Never Before

Beth Price-Williams

A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.

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Take a peek into a one-room schoolhouse. Watch an Amish craftsman hard at work. And, experience a taste of daily life in Pennsylvania Amish country – all in a single day, on the oldest tour in Lancaster County. (Did you know that PA’s home to the second largest population of Amish in the United States, coming in behind Ohio?) Here’s just a sampling of what you can expect.

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Pennsylvania Amish country offers plenty to do for visitors. But, for an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Amish, embark on a tour with the Amish Experience. And, if you like an old-fashioned homecooked meal with an Amish twist, dine at one of these 10 Amish restaurants in PA .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Amish Experience Theater, Homestead, and Tours

Amish Experience Theater and Homestead Amish Experience Farmlands Tours

3121 Old Philadelphia Pike (Rt. 340) Bird-in-Hand , PA 17505 717-768-8400

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Come experience three ways to learn about the amish.

Tour the beautiful Amish Farmland, Explore the Heritage Site Amish House and School, and see the Multi-Media Theater .

The Amish Experience offers three ways to learn about the Amish:

• “Jacob’s Choice” in the multi-media Amish Experience Theater introduces the history and origins of the Amish through a contemporary “Rumspringa” story of today.
• The heritage site Amish Country Homestead offers a glimpse into the “how” and “why” of an Amish house and school.
• The original guided tours of the Amish farmland (60 years and counting) take visitors into the back roads of the Amish countryside for an informative bus tour.

Enjoy a Traditional Family Style Amish Meal in an Amish Home

Take a Fascinating Tour Through The Amish Farmlands

On the Amish Farmlands Tour the Amish Experience tour guides will point out fascinating sights along the way as they tell you about the lifestyle of our Amish neighbors. Learn about the Amish way of life, their strong work ethic, and their commitment to family and community. And see beautiful and peaceful Lancaster farmlands that are still farmed with horses and mules. Get your questions answered here.

The Amish Experience also offers the Visit-in-Person Tour

• Visit an Amish farm at milking time. Talk with the farmer himself and learn about the milking process first-hand.
• Then visit an Amish home business. This could be a carriage manufacturer, a basket weaver, a woodworker, or some other Amish home business. This stop often includes a tour or demonstration by the host.
• Finally, visit and talk with an Amish family in their home.

What better way is there to learn more about the Amish lifestyle than from the Amish themselves?

Reserve your spot for this unique three-hour tour. Get all the details here .

The Super Saver Package includes the Theater, Homestead, and Farmlands Tour

The Super Saver is a package special that will save you $16. This special offer includes:

• The Amish Farmlands Tour
• Admission to “Jacob’s Choice”
• Admission to the Amish House and One-Room School

Group Tours of the Amish Country

Group Tours  of the Amish farmlands are also available for groups of 20 or more.

Don’t Miss the Bus

You can view all the details for each of these tour packages here.

Amish Experience is located along Route 340 between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse, PA .

Amish Experience Theater, Homestead, & Farmlands Tour

101 Fun Things To Do Here!

Come and Enjoy the many Things To Do in Lancaster, PA .

You'll find  entertainment and memories for all interests and ages :  Things To Do for Kids, Families, and Couples. Theaters, Good Food, Outdoor Adventures, more. Fun times await you here .

Smokehouse BBQ and Brews at Plain & Fancy Farm

Authentic BBQ and smoked meat, fried chicken, house-made sauces, sandwiches, sides, salads, local brews & cocktails. Menu also includes Traditional Lancaster County Favorites. Dine-in, take-out and catering available. Buggy rides, Amish homestead tours & shopping on-premises.  Walk-ins welcome.

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Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides

Ride like the Amish do… with a Horse and Buggy view!  Our Amish drivers escort you through working Amish farms. Several family priced ride options available. ASK ABOUT OUR Private Rides! Group tours welcome. Located at Plain and Fancy Farm just east of Bird-in-Hand along Route 340.

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Amish Experience: Amish Meal in an Amish Home

Tour the Amish Countryside and enjoy an authentic Amish meal in an Amish home.  Enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat, family-style menu of delicious PA Dutch foods.  The three-hour tour includes an hour of farmland touring, a stop at an Amish quilt or craft shop, and then a meal in an Amish home.

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Amish Country Homestead & One-Room School

Tour the only officially designated “Heritage Site” Amish house. Explore the nine rooms as your certified guide unravels the riddles of Amish clothing and life without electricity. Sit at authentic Amish desks in the Fisher One-Room School and learn how eight grades are taught in one room.

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Amish Experience SuperSaver Tour

Enjoy the emotional story of “ Jacob’s Choice ” in the Amish Experience Theater. Explore the Amish Country Homestead & One-Room School . Discover the spectacular beauty of the Amish farmlands on your 14-passenger shuttle, led by a certified Amish Country tour guide.

Amish Experience Visit-in-Person Tour

Visit three real Amish homes. Meet a farmer at milking time, a craftsman in their workshop, and a family at home. We work with 30 authentic Amish households not normally open to the public. This exclusive tour takes 14 people maximum to ensure everyone interacts with the Amish hosts.

AmishView Inn & Suites

Tripadvisor’s #1 Lancaster County Hotel. Trivago’s #1 National 3-star Hotel. Located on AAA Scenic Byway. Indoor pool, spa, fitness center. AmishView makes the perfect intimate getaway or family vacation. Complimentary hearty breakfast buffet. DVD players & kitchenettes in every room. Value packages.

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Jacob’s Choice at the Amish Experience Theater

Discover the world of the Amish today through the emotional struggle of the Fisher family to preserve 400 years of tradition. Five screens, smoke, fire, wind and special effects immerse you in this dramatic story as you experience what it’s really like to be Amish.

Peaceful Valley Furniture – Amish Handcrafted Furniture

Very large selection of fine furniture and accessories handcrafted by local Amish craftsmen. Wide variety of desks, cabinets, chests, tables, chairs (including the popular glider rockers). Plus, bird houses, rocking horses, wishing wells, mailboxes, crafts, gifts & more. Visit our Amish staffed showrooms in Amish Country. Closed Sundays.

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Hershey Farm Resort – Your Lancaster County Destination

Amish Farm and House – America’s 1st Amish Attraction

Lancaster Arts Hotel — A Boutique, Historic Hotel

Martins Bike & Fitness – The Cycling and Fitness People

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Ultimate day trip to Amish Country, PA

I have always wanted to visit Amish Country , but never had the chance as my trips to New York or Philly were already filled up. But Lancaster County is an easy hour and half drive from Philadelphia , so now I can’t wait to go.

This post is written by one of my awesome freelancers who lived in New York for years and explored the nooks and crannies of the city and surrounding states.

When you arrive into Amish Country in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, it’ll feel like you’ve entered an historical movie set.

If you’re visiting Amish Country from a big city like nearby Philadelphia or New York City, you’ll feel like you stepped into a time machine and gone back a few hundred years to visit a completely foreign culture. 

But this is why I so want to visit. This is the charm of these unique historical and cultural areas in rural Pennsylvania. You’ll find serene farmlands, a culture steeped in history and faith, and some of the best produce markets in the northern United States.

How to plan the Ultimate Day Trip to Amish Country, Pennsylvania

How far is Lancaster PA from NYC? It’s about 168 miles and will take around 2 hours, 45 minutes if you drive. More info on how to get there below.

Here is a quick guide to everything you need to know to plan the perfect day trip to Amish Country, PA!

*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Getting to Amish Country in Lancaster Pennsylvania

Unless you book a  tour , like this one from New York City , you will need to drive to get around Lancaster County where Amish Country is.

The  Amtrak Train  or  Ourbus  bus (very limited schedules) will take you to Lancaster City but to get to many of the more authentic Amish experiences in the smaller towns in the eastern part of the county, you will need to use the backroads where there is no public transportation. 

And since the Amish people are prohibited from using cars (we will get to this and other cultural practices that will seem alien to you later!) getting a cab to take you around will be difficult unless you don’t mind waiting for an Uber each time you need to move. We recommend driving there or  renting a car after taking public transportation into Lancaster. 

Check out this guided tour from Philadelphia to Lancaster

Tips on planning your Amish itinerary

Give yourself plenty of time to get to different sites.

Lancaster County, where the Amish people have their villages and farms, is three times bigger than New York City while being a million times slower. The vast farmlands and slower pace will leave you feeling like you’ve escaped the worries of life.

But with this stress-free pace comes the possibility for random things to slow down your day. For instance, you will likely get stuck behind horse carriages carrying Amish families if you go into the backroads (that thing about prohibiting cars again!). If that happens, you will have no choice but to enjoy the view while  slowly  making your way to your next activity. 

Have a plan

You won’t be able to do things on a whim if you go into the more rural parts of the towns. For example, if you don’t book a  tour , you’ll need to plan your day so that by the time you’re ready for lunch you’re either in the center of a town or close to one of the fantastic  smorgasbord restaurants  as you won’t find restaurants on every corner like you would in Philadelphia or NYC.

Wear appropriate shoes

Make sure to wear shoes made for walking and getting dirty. You’ll see why this is absolutely necessary in the next section where we suggest things to do on your Amish Country day trip!

The best things to do on an Amish Country day trip

Most people take a day trip to Amish Country to see the unique way of life of a people who’ve wholeheartedly held onto the same historical and religious practices they had centuries ago.

The Amish way of life is centered on the things God has provided in nature as they believe modern development and materialism leads away from the spiritual way of life most important to them. 

●      Tour A Working Farm

Start your day trip in nature and take a  farm tour  while you are rested and have the energy to walk a lot. Dairy farms are most popular in the area so expect to get the chance to milk cows, collect organic eggs, and observe the sustainable ways the Amish power their farms (electricity is too far removed from nature to be used as a power source!)

While you’re there you may be tempted to snap photos of the Amish in action.  Stop! Don’t do it!

Taking photos isn’t appreciated by the Amish. They are forbidden from having their faces on any image as graven images tempted people away from God in biblical times. The photos you see in the post do not show faces.

●      Shop for Amish Crafts and Antiques

After your tour, experience authentic Amish culture at an Amish crafts shop. Since Amish people shun traditional mediums of entertainment, they use crafting as a way to connect socially.

‘ Quilting bees ’ where groups of Amish women gather while quilting have given birth to some of the nation’s best  quilting shops where you can get a famous Amish quilt and wear crafters from all over the US send their own blankets to be finished by hand by these talented needle workers. 

Furniture shops  are also open to the public if you want to see how the Amish make their popular mission and shaker furniture.  

●      Take a Horse and Buggy Ride through the Countryside

After crafting, see how the Amish really live by taking a buggy tour past the homes on the backroads. Cars are prohibited in Amish culture as they are considered materialistic and a distraction from community. If you are to get a  tour  from an authentic Amish person while on your day trip, it’s going to be by horse buggy. 

Expect to see streams gurgling by the roadsides if you visit in spring or summer (these are the best times to visit Amish Country). In some spots, for as far as your eyes can see, there’ll only be rolling, green fields. Also look out for Amish families playing games in their yards as they do not use modern gadgets like televisions or video games for entertainment.

●      Visit an Amish Market or a Smorgasbord

When it’s lunch time, leave the rural backroads and head into the center of the town where your morning activity is closest to, to experience some of the best small town Americana foods.

The Amish have retained traditional American foods like fried chicken, biscuits, apple pies, and have huge buffet dinners (see a list of Smorgasbords here) that you’ll want to try. The  markets   are also excellent for an authentic Amish lunch. 

●     Take An Organized Tour Of An Amish Village or Town

For the afternoon of your Amish Country day trip you may want to explore one of the quaint towns on your own or take an organized  tour  of one of the following villages as the day darkens. See Discover Lancaster for info on tours.

●      Paradise

 Paradise  is perfect for quaint bakeries, quilt shops, and historic covered bridges.

●     Bird In Hand

Bird In Hand  is the quaint name of our favorite town to explore on an Amish Country day trip because of the cultural experiences around the village. The countryside is idyllic, there’s authentic Amish theater, and a one room Amish schoolhouse!

●      Strasburg 

Strasburg is all about railroad history so the town is a good bet for history buffs. It also has unique shops, corn mazes and an old fashioned creamery.

●      Farm & House Tour 

Take a tour through an authentic Amish Farm and House . Founded in 1955 in an Amish family home, this “museum” will provide a great educational for life in the Amish community.

For dinner, try a burger at  Harvest Cafe  in Kitchen Kettle Village after finishing your day shopping in  Kitchen Kettle  before it closes at 6pm (5pm in colder months).   

A day trip to the small towns of Amish Country is just what you need if you want to experience life in a new way or need a peaceful retreat from everyday life.

Special events!

If you’re visiting in February through April, you should go to one of the famous Amish Mud Sales . These huge auctions, named for the winter thaw, seem chaotic with several going on at once, but up to 20,000 people come to buy handmade quilts, furniture, antiques and produce. Plus horse and buggies if you need one!

All proceeds benefit the local fire companies. Check out this calendar for upcoming Mud Sales .

Because one post is never enough!

You might like to read my day in Philadelphia post here, covering a dollop of history, some European culture, places to eat and a freaky medical museum!

Or this fabulous shopping day in New York covering the best shops on Fifth Avenue, plus tips for where to stop and eat along the way.

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About The Amish Village

The amish village means authenticity.

The Amish Village is dedicated to creating authentic encounters with the Amish culture through our tours and educational stories about Amish traditions. We are a family-owned business and value our connections with our Amish neighbors.

The Amish Village is dedicated to bringing together elements of the Amish community – farmhouse, barn, schoolhouse, and blacksmith shop included – to give you a true taste of the Amish way of life. Our Amish Village centers around the Amish farmhouse, originally built in 1840. We employ Amish and ex-Amish friends to ensure our tours deliver accurate and helpful information. We have relationships with the Amish-run businesses in our community, and we look forward to sharing some of these Lancaster County gems with you.

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Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country in Lancaster County, we enjoy our particular corner of Amish farmland just North of Strasburg, PA.

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Experience the Amish culture first-hand through our memorable Amish Farmhouse, 12-acre Village property, and Backroads Bus tours.

Explore the Amish Countryside of Western Pennsylvania

Drive the backroads with your own personal tour guide as you discover the Amish Community and learn about the Amish culture.

About Simple Life Tours

Simple Life Amish Tours

Private or Group Guided Tours through the Amish Countryside of Pittsburgh in North Western Pennsylvania

Are you interested in discovering a world where peace and tranquility still exist? Book your Simple Life Amish Tour and you will be transported to the Amish Countryside.  NOW MORE THAN EVER IS A GOOD TIME TO VISIT A WORLD THAT HAS DIFFERENT VALUES, A  SIMPLER STYLE OF LIFE,  AND IS ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! 

Please call 724-923-9730 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR WOULD LIKE TO TALK TO A SIMPLE LIFE REPRESENTATIVE.

 There will be as many stops as we can fit in, on our Simple Life tour. First stop may be an Amish produce and bakery stand. Meet Andy  and his family and tempt your taste buds with their delicious wares! The Amish are FAMOUS for their BAKED GOODS! YUM!!! The next stop is an Amish Grocery store, where you will meet the Byler Family. Located in the basement of the Byler’s home, this grocery store is lit with a gas lamp. Purchase old fashioned sodas kept cold in an  the Byler’s “Ice box” and wait until you see the antique adding machine! You will be able to purchase local honey, fresh tapped Maple Syrup, Homemade noodles, cheeses a variety of Amish jams and jellies and homemade candy.  Our third stop is Cornerstone Furniture where you will get to see  how and Amish furniture shop works with no electricity! Watch the Amish men build furniture and meet Rudy, who will show you his hand built tables and chairs.  Our fourth stop is an Amish Quilt shop. Meet Sam and Lizzie Byler who own New Wilmington’s only Amish Quilt Shop filled with beautiful Amish handmade quilts, rocking chairs, and many other Amish made items from our local Old World Order Amish community. 

Children can pet and feed the horses, puppies and kittens! So much to do and see on this tour!

Rates: $100 total for up to two guests

$25.00 each additional guest

$12.50 children ten and under.

Please call for special pricing for larger groups

What to Expect

Each tour begins in the heart of Amish Country of New Wilmington, Pa located just 60 miles North of Pittsburgh, 15 minutes from the Grove City Outlets and Just five minutes from the town of Volant, Pa. We meet at an Amish Store called Byler’s Quilts and Crafts located at 435 Quilt Shop Lane, Volant, Pa 16156 There you will meet Susan, your personal tour guide. Step into Susan’s vehicle and let her lead you through  a backroads tour of our Amish villages. You will be transported into another world as we explore the Amish Countryside.  This is a private, non commercialized scenic back roads tour that takes you off the beaten path.  Susan  will teach you about the Amish lifestyle as we drive past horse and buggies, homes,  dairy farms and even an Amish schoolhouse.  You never know what you will see along these backroads! Visit Amish farms, greenhouses, an Amish bakery, grocery store and many other litle stops along the way. Watch Amish men build furniture and plow their fields with horse and plow! 

You will be amazed at the knowledge, friendliness and warmth of this tour and tour guides. You will be able to meet and speak with our Amish friends and discover the beauty of the Amish culture and lifestyle. 

Tours are approximately 2 hours long. Each tour is a non-commercialized private tour made by appointment. You can book online or call us. (724-923-9730)

This tour is perfect for individuals, families, couples and even groups.

Rates: $100.00 total for up to two guests

Children 10 and under $12.50 each

For Larger Groups:  Try the TASTE AND TOUR AMISH COUNTRY TOUR. Let Susan come as a step on tour guide, or lead your group on a two hour tour plus an Amish themed meal at a local restaurant. (Groups of 10 or more)

Call for special pricing for larger groups

We do Field trips, Bus groups, Church groups, women's groups, Book clubs etc..

Are you ready for your Simple Life Tour? Please call us  @ 724-923-9730 or book now online.

Photo by: Jim Fisher

Journey through Simple Life Tours: A Visual Tour

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Susan Hougelman Author of: Inside the Simple Life

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The Amish Experience Gives Tourists an Inside Glimpse Into Lives of the Pennsylvania Dutch

Lancaster County tourists can get the true VIP experience the Amish way. The Amish Experience has connected visitors with a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the lives of the Pennsylvania Dutch .   

The VIP, or “Visit-in-Person” tours bring small groups of up to 14 tourists to three authentic Amish properties. The tour kicks off at one of the dairy farms during milking time.  

The second shop is at a craftsman’s workshop to learn about their trade. This could include visiting carriage makers, goat cheese artisans, wooden toy makers, or canning kitchens. The tour wraps up inside an Amish family’s home, where participants can ask them questions.  

Amish Experience President Clinton Martin says that the Amish have a very powerful social network.  

“They’re all like one big grapevine,” said Martin.  

When the tour company started out with one or two families participating. But it wasn’t hard to be introduced to others, and the Amish Experience is now connected to 30 to 35 different households.  

For larger groups also seeking a similar authentic experience. The Meal in an Amish Home Tour takes bus groups of fifty to 100 people to eat a hearty meal of Amish cuisine in a barn.  

The tour company connects with an Amish family-owned catering business to provide traditional meals, such as pot roast, coleslaw, corn, baked chicken, or shoofly pie.  

The Meal in an Amish Home tour also recently started letting smaller groups of people participate. It so far has been proving itself a success.  

“It’s really been working out well, I’ve been pleased at the response,” says Martin.  

Read more about the tours on The Amish Experience’s website.   

A glimpse into The Amish Experience.

Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on DELCO Today in June 2023.