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Amish Country Itineraries

Amish Country Itineraries

Amish Country Ohio, USA Travel Guide

-Hour Layover Plan

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive early in Berlin. Explore the main street shops. Visit a local bakery for fresh-baked goods and coffee.

Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Enjoy a traditional Amish-style lunch at Berlin Farmstead Restaurant or a similar family-style eatery.

Afternoon & Evening

  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Visit the Amish & Mennonite Cultural Center to see the "Behalt" cyclorama. Take a short, scenic buggy ride from Berlin operators.
  • Late Afternoon/Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Drive to Walnut Creek for dinner at Der Dutchman or Walnut Creek Amish Kitchen. Check into your accommodation in Berlin or Walnut Creek.
  • Next Morning: Depart after breakfast.

Weekend Exploration

This balance allows for exploring the main highlights without rushing.

Day 1: Arrival & Berlin

Arrive, check into your Berlin accommodation. Afternoon: Explore Berlin's bustling main street. Visit shops with quilts, furniture, and local crafts.

Evening Plans

  • Dinner: Enjoy a family-style meal at a local restaurant in Berlin.
  • Evening: Relax at your B&B or hotel.
  • Shopping: Discover handmade items and local products.
  • Comfort: Settle into your chosen lodging.
Discover Berlin's charm.

Day 2: Culture & Countryside

Morning: Visit the Amish & Mennonite Cultural Center ("Behalt" cyclorama) for historical context. Late Morning: Drive to Heini's Cheese Chalet in Millersburg for a dairy product made from milk tasting.

Afternoon & Dinner

  • Lunch: Get a sandwich or pie from a local bakery or deli.
  • Afternoon: Take a scenic drive (e.g., SR 557) to observe Amish farms and daily life. Stop at a roadside stand. Consider a buggy ride.
  • Country Views: Enjoy the peaceful rural scenery.

Day 3: History or Swiss Charm

Morning: Choose your focus: Option A (History): Explore Millersburg's the old town, visit the Victorian A Preserved home museum. Option B (Swiss Charm): Drive to Sugarcreek. See the World's Largest Cuckoo Clock.

Departure Prep

  • Lunch: Enjoy a final meal in your chosen town.
  • Departure.
  • Explore Swiss-themed shops.
  • Pick your preferred theme.

One-Week Immersion

A week for exploration, relaxation, and day trips. Days 1-3: Holmes County Immersion, allowing more time for each town.

Extended Plans

  • Day 4: Nature & Outdoor: Mohican State Park for hiking, canoeing, or kayaking (seasonal).
  • Day 5: Hidden Gems: Less-visited areas, home-based Amish shops, Lehman's in Kidron.
  • Day 6: Relaxation: Revisit a favorite spot, spa treatment, scenic drive.
  • Day 7: Departure.

Longer Stays

A two-week trip for complete immersion and multi-day extensions. Week 1: Follow the "One-Week Comprehensive Experience" for thorough exploration.

Week 2 City

2-3 days in Cleveland (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, museums, dining).

Week 2 Capital

2-3 days in Columbus (arts, dining, Ohio State University).

Week 2 Islands

2-3 time on Lake Erie Islands (recreation, wineries, seasonal).

Tailor Your Journey

For multi-day extensions, consider your travel interests. Ohio has diverse offerings.

Tailored Experiences

Customize your itinerary to your specific passions for a more focused and satisfying trip.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Explore the Amish & Mennonite Cultural Center ("Behalt" cyclorama, schoolhouse, home), David Warther Carvings, Victorian House Museum (Millersburg).

More History

  • Yoder's Amish Home (Fresno) for a guided farm tour.
  • Day trip to Schoenbrunn Village and Fort Laurens for broader Ohio history.
  • Plan dedicated history days.
  • Find more historical tours on GetYourGuide.
Deep dive into local history.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Extensive visits to family-style restaurants (Der Dutchman, Berlin Farmstead Restaurant). Tastings and tours at Heini's Cheese Chalet and Guggisberg Cheese.

Culinary Delights

  • Frequent stops at Amish bakeries (Hershberger's Farm & Bakery, Troyer's Home Pantry) for pies, cookies, and breads.
  • Stands by the side of the road for fresh, seasonal ingredients.
  • Bulk food stores for unique local items.
  • Cooking demonstrations where possible.

Adventure & Outdoor

Spend a full day or two at Mohican State Park for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, or kayaking. Cycle or walk the Holmes County Trail.

Activities

  • Scenic drives through the countryside, stopping at overlooks.
  • Consider a hot air balloon ride over the rolling hills (seasonal).
  • Explore trails for cycling.
  • River activities and water sports.
Experience the outdoors.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Hershberger's Farm & Bakery (petting zoo, baked goods). The Farm at Walnut Creek (exotic animals, wagon rides). Horse-drawn buggy rides.

Kids' Fun

  • World's Largest Cuckoo Clock (Sugarcreek).
  • Engaging exhibits at the Age of Steam Roundhouse (check schedule).
  • Hotels with indoor pools.
  • Enjoy a peaceful buggy ride.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Explore the intricate craftsmanship of Amish quilts in various quilt shops. Visit Amish furniture showrooms to appreciate fine woodworking.

Artistic Exploration

  • Admire the Victorian architecture in Historic Downtown Millersburg.
  • Study the Swiss-style the style of buildings in Sugarcreek.
  • The David Warther Carvings represent an unique form of folk art.
  • Seek out local artisans for unique pieces.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Focus on the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the rural countryside. Stay at a tranquil B&B or cabin.

Mindfulness & Relaxation

  • Enjoy scenic walks or gentle cycling on the Holmes County Trail.
  • Consider personal reflection time. Some inns offer spa services for relaxation.
  • Experience the peaceful quiet.
  • Connect with nature.

Personalized Travel

Tailor your journey to match your unique passions and travel style. Each route brings a distinct flavor to your Areas Where the amish live visit.

Smart Planning

Adjust your itinerary to fit your financial comfort level and align your visit with the season for specific highlights.

Backpacker's Guide

Accommodation: Stay in cheap motels on the outskirts, or consider camping if suitable for the season. Meals: Cook some meals from groceries purchased at bulk food stores.

Savings Tips

  • Affordable Options: Focus on affordable choices from Amish bakeries and roadside stands.
  • Outdoor Lunches: Save money with picnic lunches.
  • Free Activities: Prioritize free attractions like scenic drives, walking through town centers, and browsing shops.
  • Free Samples: Visit free sections of attractions (e.g., Heini's Cheese samples).
Travel smart, see more.

Mid-Range Traveler

Accommodation: Stay in comfortable B&Bs or mid-range hotels. Meals: Enjoy family-style dining experiences at old-style restaurants. Mix in some bakery visits for breakfast or lunch.

Value Experience

  • Activities: Participate in popular paid activities like museums, buggy rides, and farm tours.
  • Comfort: Enjoy pleasant stays.
  • Good Value: Experience without overspending.
  • Souvenirs: Purchase local crafts.

Luxury & Value Focus

Luxury Experience: Stay at upscale inns (e.g., The Inn at Honey Run) or premium vacation rentals. Indulge in fine dining. Private buggy tours, custom craft experiences.

Spa & Serenity

  • Enjoy spa services for ultimate relaxation.
  • Explore premium dining options.
  • Book exclusive artisan workshops.

Smart Choices

  • Value-Focused: Visit during shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall) for better rates and fewer crowds.
  • Seek package deals for bundled savings.
  • Explore local markets for affordable finds.

Summer & Fall Wonders

Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and cycling. Fresh produce from farm stands and farmers markets is abundant.

Autumn Beauty

  • Fall (September-October): Peak fall foliage (mid-October) draws large crowds. Pumpkin patches and autumn-themed events.
  • Ohio Swiss Celebration in Sugarcreek usually late September/early October.
  • Extended daylight for in-depth exploration.
  • Perfect for buggy rides in pleasant weather.

Winter & Off-Season Peace

Winter (November-March): Quieter, often snowy landscapes present a tranquil getaway. Good for cozy B&B stays, indoor shopping for crafts, and reassuring, warm food.

Off-Season Tips

  • Reduced Hours: Many businesses have reduced hours, so plan carefully.
  • Lower Rates: Often the best time for lower accommodation rates (excluding holidays).
  • Embrace Quiet: Enjoy the lack of crowds.
  • Indoor Focus: Focus on indoor activities like museums, shops, and bakeries.

Important Fall Tip

Foliage Peak

For the best fall foliage, aim for the second or third week of October.

Book Early

Book accommodations months ahead for this period.

Plan Ahead

Planning your visit according to the season and your budget will lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
Amish Country Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel