Three days of handcrafted charm, scenic backroads, and timeless traditions
There’s something grounding about Amish Country. The sound of horse hooves on quiet backroads, the smell of fresh-baked bread drifting from family-run bakeries, and the sense that time moves differently here — slower, steadier, more intentional.
We spent three days exploring the heart of Holmes County, the largest Amish community in the world, and discovered that sustainability isn’t a trend here — it’s a way of life.
Day 1 – Authentic Amish Country Immersion
Start your morning at the Mt. Hope Event Center, where an authentic Amish auction might be underway. Wooden furniture, handcrafted tools, and local produce fill the space with life and laughter — a glimpse into daily community rhythms rarely seen by outsiders.
Just up the road, Lehman’s in Kidron feels like stepping back in time. This iconic general store specializes in non-electric and sustainable living products — everything from hand tools to butter churns — all beautifully displayed in a space that celebrates craftsmanship and simplicity.
A few miles west, Holmes County Pottery is worth the detour. Artisan Cary Hulin shapes each piece by hand, transforming raw clay into functional art. Watching him work reminds you how much beauty there is in slowing down.
If you have time, stretch your legs on the Holmes County Rails-to-Trails, a peaceful stretch of converted rail line perfect for a scenic bike ride or walk among the fields and forests.
Day 2 – Food, Shopping & Farm Experiences
Thursday is all about local flavors and hidden gems. Begin at Heini’s Cheese Chalet, where you can watch live cheese-making (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and taste samples straight from the source — over 50 flavors of cheese, from smoked cheddar to jalapeño jack.
Next, head into Berlin, the bustling heart of Amish Country. Stroll through boutique shops and artisan stores before grabbing lunch at Blue Sky Café, where the donut bar alone is worth the stop.
At Homestead Furniture, you’ll see how traditional craftsmanship meets modern design — each piece built to last for generations. Then, finish your day at Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery, where you can pet farm animals, browse local produce, and enjoy a slice of pie straight from the oven.
For a fun evening out, check out Amish Country Theater, where lighthearted comedy brings local culture to life.
Day 3 – Walnut Creek & Cultural Highlights
Start your final morning with breakfast at Rebecca’s Bistro, a cozy spot serving locally sourced dishes with a fresh, seasonal touch.
Next, head to Hillcrest Orchard for apple picking and scenic countryside views, then continue to Yoder’s Amish Home, where guided tours, buggy rides, and demonstrations offer a window into Amish life.
Stop for lunch at Der Dutchman in Walnut Creek, famous for its hearty Amish-style meals — mashed potatoes, fried chicken, and homemade noodles served family-style. Across the street, you’ll find Carlisle Inn, where horse-drawn buggy rides complete the experience.
In the afternoon, explore The Farm at Walnut Creek, where you can hop on a wagon ride through rolling farmland and see exotic animals up close — a family-friendly favorite.
Before you leave the region, take a detour to the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, home to the world’s largest private collection of steam locomotives, and wrap up your adventure with a tasting at Breitenbach Wine Cellars, surrounded by vineyard views and Ohio sunshine.
Bonus Stops: Bakery Trail Favorites
If you have extra time, don’t miss the local bakery trail — starting with Boyd & Wurthmann (famous for its classic pies) and Miller’s Bakery, where the shelves are lined with old-fashioned donuts and pastries that taste like home.
Travel Tip
To plan your own route through Ohio’s Amish Country, visit visitholmescounty.com – it’s packed with guides and maps to help you create a trip that’s as slow and soulful as you want it to be.
2 Responses
Great post! I’ve been wanting to visit an Amish community for a long time. I will have to save this post.
Thank you! It is such a unique experience and so worth it!