In today’s fast-paced world, sometimes unplugging from the hustle and bustle for a bit is all you need for a relaxing vacation. In Amish country, it’s all about simple living and taking the time to slow down.
In 2012, the three states with the highest Amish population were Ohio (60,233), Pennsylvania (59,078) and Indiana (44,831). If you’re planning on traveling through any of these three states, or are simply in need of a getaway from the fast-paced nature of the world, here are nine of the best places to get your fix of the simple life.
Best Places to Eat in Amish Country
One of the most important aspects to experiencing a new culture is its food. A traditional Amish diet consists of eggs, oatmeal, bologna, cheese, soup, potato dishes, meat dishes and vegetables.
Keep in mind that the Amish see mealtime as a family event. Their dinners are almost always served family-style. Here are some restaurants in Amish country where you’ll find great eats along with a traditional, family-focused dining experience.
Amish Door Restaurant – Wilmot, OH
The Amish Door Restaurant sits in the center of a large Amish complex that’s sort of the triple threat: eat, shop and sleep. The restaurant, which serves up homestyle breakfast, lunch and dinner, is surrounded by a large market area and a bed and breakfast. If you’re coming for the food, the restaurant’s specialty is its “broasted” chicken. It’s made with a special recipe of marinated, hand-breaded, pressure-fried chicken. Yum.
Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen – Mt. Hope, OH
For family-style dinners or a hearty breakfast buffet at a decent price, Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen is the go-to spot. Specialties include fried mush, homemade sweet rolls, roast beef and juicy chicken.
Good ‘N Plenty – Smoketown, PA
Located in the heart of Lancaster County, Good ‘N Plenty serves authentic Amish food such as meatloaf, fried chicken and roast beef. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has fresh, homemade desserts and bread at their bakery.
Best Places to Stay in Amish Country
If you’re looking for a complete, immersive experience from the start of your trip to the very end, it’s important that your lodging fits with the theme of the rest of your vacation. Amish-run bed and breakfasts are scattered throughout Amish country and would enhance your overall experience.
The Barn Inn – Millersburg, OH
This charming bed and breakfast is the perfect getaway for those looking to really engage in the Amish way of life. If you’re interested in learning, the formerly Amish innkeepers can even teach you more about the culture and faith.
The Inn at Honey Run – Millersburg, OH
The Inn at Honey Run is the perfect retreat after a day of exploring Amish country. Ideal for couples, the inn takes relaxation and upscale dining to the next level.
Big House in the Little Woods – Millersburg, IN
Located in the heart of northern Indiana’s Amish farmland, this colonial-style bed and breakfast serves up a full country breakfast every morning. Rooms feature hand-stitched quilts and private baths.
Best Shopping and Attractions in Amish Country
So, you’ve got your restaurants and lodging, but what’s there to do all day? More than you’d think. You’re bound to pass by family-run markets and shops just by driving down some backroads in Amish country. Here’s just a handful of ideas for entertainment during the day.
The Farm at Walnut Creek – Sugarcreek, OH
Attention, animal lovers, here’s your stop! The Farm at Walnut Creek has more than 500 animals for visitors to play with, pet and feed. Take a wagon ride throughout the farm to see animals like giraffes, kangaroos and porcupines in action.
Schrock’s Heritage Village – Berlin, OH
This unique Amish village offers buggy rides, tours of traditional Amish homes, an antique mall and a craft mall. Spend the day shopping or enjoying a relaxing stroll through town.
Hans Herr House and Eastern Woodland Longhouse – Willow Street, PA
Built in 1719, the Hans Herr House is the oldest building in Lancaster County and the oldest standing Mennonite Meeting House in the country. Costumed interpreters will take you on a tour through the house, where you’ll see many original treasures, such as the staircase leading to the attic. The Native American-style longhouse was added to the property to show how the land was in use before European settlers arrived.
With all that Amish country offers in food and shopping, what are you waiting for? Plan a small staycation and explore the areas around you or come out and spend the week.
Kacey is a lifestyle blogger for The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts.