Amish Country Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-Hour Layover Highlights

Focus on a specific area like Bird-in-Hand/Strasburg for a concise yet fulfilling experience.

Start with an authentic Amish buggy ride in Bird-in-Hand or Intercourse to experience the countryside. Then, visit The Amish Hamlet for a guided tour of a traditional farm. Enjoy lunch at a family-style restaurant. Explore the Strasburg Railroad with a steam train ride. Finish with an early dinner.

Activities

Amish buggy ride (Bird-in-Hand/Intercourse).
Tour The Amish Village or The Amish Farm and House.
Strasburg Railroad ride.

Time-Based Itineraries

Detailed plans for various trip durations, from a quick weekend to a week-long adventure.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A balanced introduction to Amish Country's charm and attractions.

Sample Plan

Day 1: Arrive and check into your hotel. Afternoon: Amish buggy ride, Amish farm tour. Evening: Family-style Pennsylvania Dutch dinner.
Day 2: Morning: Strasburg Railroad and Museum. Afternoon: Lititz downtown, Lititz Springs Park, Wolf Sanctuary. Evening: Sight & Sound Theatres (book ahead).
Day 3: Morning: Lancaster Central Market, Historic Downtown Lancaster. Afternoon: Departure.
Explore additional regional experiences via GetYourGuide.

Consider booking your experiences in advance to secure your spots, especially for popular attractions.

One-Week Comprehensive

Extend your visit with diverse day trips and exploration.

Extensive Itinerary

Days 1-3: Follow the Weekend Getaway plan.
Day 4: Day trip to Hershey (Chocolate World, Hersheypark).
Day 5: Day trip to Gettysburg (battlefield, museum).

One-Week Continued

More alternatives for the runner-up half of your week-long trip.

Additional Options

Day SIX: Brandywine Valley (Longwood Gardens, Brandywine River Museum of Art) or Susquehanna River drive.
Day 7: Revisit a favorite spot, explore more covered bridges, or take a culinary tour in Lancaster City.
Enjoy a final local meal before departure.
This plan has a deep dive into the region's offerings.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

A slower pace, detailed exploration, and extended regional travel.

Extended Stay

Explore at a more relaxed speed.
Consider multi-day extensions to Philadelphia, Washington D.C., or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
Integrate workshops, more cycling, or longer visits to off-the-beaten-path Amish businesses.
For stays longer than two weeks, consider renting a vacation home with a kitchen for local immersion.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

Vacation Rentals

Renting a vacation your residence or apartment with a kitchen promotes local immersion.

Local Life

Grocery shopping at farmers markets becomes part of the routine.

Relaxed Pace

See the region at a very relaxed pace, discovering hidden gems.

Itinerary Flexibility

These itineraries are suggestions. Feel free to mix and match elements to build a trip that perfectly fits your interests and available time. Flexibility and an open mind contribute to discovering unexpected delights.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to what excites you most, from history to gastronomic journeys.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Dive deep into Pennsylvania's rich past.

Historical Sites

Explore Historic Downtown Lancaster (walking tours, museums).
Visit Ephrata Cloister for unique colonial religious history.
Spend time at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania and ride the Strasburg Railroad.
Take a day trip to Gettysburg (Civil War).

The Hans Herr House AND The museum also has early history.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Savor the flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch Country and beyond.

Taste the Region

Frequent Lancaster Central Market and Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market.
Dine at Pennsylvania Dutch smorgasbords and family-style restaurants.
Seek out roadside farm stands for fresh produce, baked goods, and "Honest Stand" experiences.
Visit local creameries or farm stores for cheese and dairy products.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

For those seeking active pursuits in nature.

Outdoor Exploration

Extensive cycling on rural backroads, perhaps using a rented bike.
Hiking in Lancaster County Central Park or along the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail.
Hot air balloon ride for aerial views.
Wildlife viewing at Moderatedle Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Check local outfitters for bike rentals and guided tours.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities tailored for visitors with children.

Fun for All Ages

Dedicated day at Dutch Wonderland Family Theme Park.
Buggy rides and excursions to The Amish Village or The Amish Farm and House (with petting zoos).
Visit Hershey's Chocolate World.
Explore hands-on exhibits at the North Museum of Nature and Science.

Art and Architecture Emphasis

Appreciate the visual and structural beauty of the region.

Visual Exploration

Explore Lancaster City's historic architecture.
Visit the Demuth Museum.
Discover public art and galleries in Lancaster's arts district.
Appreciate the craftsmanship in Amish quilts and furniture.

Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Seek tranquility and introspection in the peaceful setting.

Mindful Travel

Focus on the quiet, contemplative nature of the Amish countryside.
Enjoy scenic drives and walks for reflection.
Consider a stay at a peaceful Bed & Breakfast.
Observe the religious practices of the Amish from a respectful distance.

Tailored Experiences

Remember, these suggested itineraries are a starting point. Customizing your trip to match personal interests creates a truly memorable experience.

Budget-Based Plans

Adjust your travel style to fit your financial preferences, from budget-savvy to luxury.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize your experience while minimizing expenses.

Economical Travel

Accommodation: Economy motels on city outskirts or campgrounds.
Food: Mainly grocery store purchases, picnics, and affordable diners.
Activities: Focus on free attractions like scenic drives, covered bridges, and parks. Limit guided tours for a fee.
Transportation: Rely on your own car if possible, or limited use of Lancaster City's public bus.

Picnicking at a scenic overlook is a no-cost and enjoyable option.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

A comfortable and varied experience without excessive spending.

Balanced Travel

Accommodation: Charming Bed & Breakfasts or mid-range hotels.
Food: Mix of casual and sit-down restaurants, including a Pennsylvania Dutch smorgasbord.
Activities: A few paid attractions (buggy ride, Strasburg Railroad, Amish Village), plus market visits.
Transportation: Rental car for flexibility.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive activities for a lavish visit.

High-End Stays

Accommodation: Boutique hotels in Lancaster City or high-end, secluded Bed & Breakfasts.
Food: Fine dining in Lancaster City, private culinary experiences.
Activities: Private guided tours, hot air balloon rides, premium seating at Sight & Sound Theatres, bespoke shopping.

Premium Travel

Transportation: Private car service or luxury rental car.
This experience prioritizes comfort and exclusive access.
Every detail is curated for a refined journey.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart strategies for maximizing your budget.

Cost-Saving Tips

Visit during shoulder or low season for lower prices.
Look for package deals from hotels that include attraction tickets.
Utilize free walking tours in Lancaster City.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of driving the countryside, which is free.

Seasonal Specialties

Align your visit with the unique offerings of each season.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer: Lush green farmlands, outdoor attractions fully open, fresh produce abundance.
Winter: Peaceful, quiet atmosphere with fewer crowds, possibility of snow-covered landscapes, lower accommodation prices.
Festival visits: Check local calendars for craft fairs, seasonal food events, or the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (late summer/fall).
Witness snow geese migration at Moderatedle Creek Wildlife Management Area (late winter/early spring).

Off-Season Exploration

Advantages

Embrace the slower pace with fewer crowds and quiet roads.

Practicalities

Call the sights ahead to confirm hours, as many may be reduced or closed. Focus on indoor cultural experiences and shopping.

Final Tip

These itineraries are suggestions. Mix and match elements to build a trip that fits your interests and time. Flexibility and an open mind uncover unexpected delights.

Amish Country Itineraries