Amish Country Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Maximizing your budget during your visit.

No single "Amish Country Pass" exists like those in major cities. Some attractions or bundled tickets give small discounts when purchased together. Inquire at visitor centers.
Coupon books or brochures at visitor centers or local hotels sometimes hold discounts for specific attractions or restaurants.

Driving the quiet backroads of Amish Country costs nothing and has some of the best views of the landscape and Amish life.
Exploring the numerous historic covered bridges throughout the county costs nothing and is picturesque.
Visiting Lititz Springs Park or sections of Lancaster County Central Park gives free recreation and beauty.
Strolling through charming towns like Lititz, Strasburg, or downtown Lancaster permits enjoyable window shopping without spending money.

In Lancaster City, many restaurants feature happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers during late afternoon.
Look for lunch specials or early bird dinner menus. These come at a reduced price than regular dinner service.
Many Pennsylvania Dutch smorgasbords extend slightly lower prices for lunch or early dinner.

A rental car, while a direct cost, frequently serves as the most economical way for a group or family to explore rural areas. This contrasts with multiple taxi or ride-share fares. Split the cost among travelers.
If your accommodation is in a walkable town like Lititz or downtown Lancaster, or if you see a specific cycling route, walking or renting a bicycle can save on daily transportation costs.

Efficient planning leads to maximizing time enjoying the destination.

For popular attractions like Sight & Sound Theatres or Strasburg Railroad, pre-booking tickets online is helpful. This lets you bypass ticket lines and secure your preferred show or train time.

Visit popular attractions like The Amish Village or the Strasburg Railroad right after opening or an hour or two before closing. This avoids peak crowds, especially on weekends and during high season.
Weekdays typically encounter fewer crowds than weekends.
Visiting during the shoulder or low season (April/May, November, January-March) entails fewer crowds and potentially shorter lines everywhere.

For travel to/from more substantial airports (PHL, BWI), consider Amtrak. While you still connect, it often circumvents road traffic congestion, providing predictable travel time.

Plan your days by grouping places that reside close to each other. For example, combine Bird-in-Hand, Intercourse, and Strasburg attractions on one day; they are all near one another.
Utilize a reliable mapping app (e.g., Google Maps) for efficient routes between your chosen destinations, considering real-time traffic.

Niceties of the community and common visitor experiences.

Ignoring Buggy Safety: Failing to slow down, keeping unsafe distances, or passing unsafely around horse-drawn buggies. Avoid this by driving patiently and respectfully.
Taking Photos Without Permission: Trying to photograph Amish individuals, especially children, without clear permission. Avoid this by always asking first, and honoring a "no." Concentrate on landscapes and buggies from a distance.
Expecting Electricity/Modernity Everywhere: Assuming all Amish businesses hold modern facilities like credit card machines or restrooms. Prepare with cash, and grasp that some small, home-based businesses operate with simpler amenities.
Lack of Cash: Arriving without sufficient cash for smaller Amish businesses. Always carry small bills and change.

Patience on Roads: Life proceeds sless in rural Amish areas. Be patient with horse-drawn modes of transport and farm equipment.
Sunday Closures: Many Amish businesses, and some non-Amish ones, close on Sundays. This observes the Sabbath. Plan your Sunday activities around this.
Directness: Amish people generally display directness and honesty in their dealings. Politeness and respect find appreciation.

Do not go onto private property unless invited or it is a clearly marked business open to the public.
Avoid loud noises or gestures that might startle horses or disturb the community's tranquility.

A simple "Greetings," "Good afternoon," or "Thank you" spoken sincerely is all that is needed. Displaying genuine interest in their crafts or products likewise finds appreciation.

Tailor these pointers for your specific travel group for a smoother experience.

Safety: Lancaster County has a safe area for solo travelers. Practice standard personal safety measures.
Social Opportunities: Consider staying at a Bed & Breakfast; hosts often share conversation and local insights. Joining a guided bus excursion or a walking tour in Lancaster City can yield social interaction.

Pacing: Plan a more leisurely pace with many breaks, especially for younger children.
Kid-Friendly Attractions: Focus on attractions like Dutch Wonderland, The Amish Village (with its animals), Strasburg Railroad, and interactive farm experiences.
Snacks and Hydration: Carry ample snacks and water, especially when out in rural areas.
Travel Games: Bring Travel games for kids for car rides.

Advance Booking: For groups, securing a place to stay, tours (especially Sight & Sound), and large restaurant book far ahead holds importance to confirm availability.
Group Rates: Inquire about group rates for attractions or tours; many feature discounts for larger numbers.
Communication: Clearly convey the itinerary and expectations to all group members.
Transportation: For large groups, consider a dedicated tour bus or arranging a caravan of rental cars for easyr movement.

For travelers with mobility challenges, a rental car has the most flexibility.
Check individual attraction websites for detailed information on ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.