How to Plan a Pennsylvania Road Trip to Amish Country

Planning a road trip to Amish Country in Pennsylvania is more than just a scenic drive—it’s an immersive journey into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for over 300 years. Nestled in the rolling hills and farmland of southeastern Pennsylvania, Amish Country offers visitors a rare glimpse into simplicity, craftsmanship, and community. From horse-drawn buggies gliding down country roads to hand-forged ironwork and fresh-baked pies sold at roadside stands, the experience is as enriching as it is tranquil. But to truly appreciate this unique region, thoughtful planning is essential. Unlike typical tourist destinations, Amish Country thrives on quiet authenticity, and a well-planned trip ensures you respect local customs while maximizing your connection to the land and its people. This guide walks you through every step of planning your Pennsylvania road trip to Amish Country, from choosing the right time of year to navigating hidden gems that most travelers overlook. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper experience, this comprehensive tutorial equips you with the knowledge to travel mindfully, efficiently, and memorably.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Purpose and Expectations

Before mapping out your route or booking accommodations, take time to reflect on why you want to visit Amish Country. Are you seeking peaceful solitude, cultural education, photography opportunities, or hands-on experiences like farm stays or craft workshops? Your intent will shape every decision—from the length of your trip to the towns you prioritize. Many visitors mistakenly assume Amish Country is a theme park of quaint shops and photo ops. In reality, it is a living, breathing community that values privacy and tradition. Understanding this upfront helps you approach your visit with humility and curiosity rather than voyeurism. Consider setting personal goals: perhaps you want to learn about traditional woodworking, taste authentic Amish cuisine, or simply disconnect from digital noise. Write these down. They’ll serve as your compass when choices arise.

Step 2: Choose the Best Time to Visit

The season you visit dramatically impacts your experience. Spring (April–May) brings blooming orchards, fresh green fields, and mild temperatures ideal for walking and biking. It’s also when many farms begin their planting season, offering rare opportunities to witness early agricultural rituals. Summer (June–August) is peak tourist season. Days are long and warm, perfect for outdoor exploration, but expect larger crowds at popular markets like the Lancaster Central Market. Fall (September–October) is arguably the most beautiful time. The foliage turns golden and crimson, and harvest festivals are in full swing. Many Amish families sell their seasonal produce, jams, and quilts during this period. Winter (November–March) is quiet and serene, with snow-dusted barns and fewer visitors. However, some attractions may be closed, and roads can be icy. If you’re seeking solitude and authenticity, winter offers unparalleled peace—but pack accordingly. Avoid holidays like Easter and Christmas, when traffic surges and some businesses operate on reduced hours due to religious observances.

Step 3: Select Your Base Town

Amish Country spans several counties, but the heart lies in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Within it, four main towns serve as ideal bases: Lancaster City, Intercourse, Bird-in-Hand, and Strasburg. Each offers a different flavor. Lancaster City is the largest and most urbanized, with museums, upscale restaurants, and historic architecture. It’s ideal if you want cultural amenities alongside your rural escape. Intercourse, despite its unusual name, is the epicenter of Amish tourism. It’s compact, walkable, and packed with family-owned shops, bakeries, and buggy rentals. Bird-in-Hand is quieter, with a strong focus on crafts and farm-to-table dining. Strasburg, home to the Strasburg Rail Road, attracts families and train enthusiasts. Choose your base based on your interests. If you plan to explore multiple towns daily, stay centrally—perhaps in a B&B between Intercourse and Bird-in-Hand. For a deeper immersion, consider staying on a working farm or in a historic inn that has been family-run for generations.

Step 4: Plan Your Route and Transportation

While renting a car is the most practical way to explore Amish Country, it’s not just about having wheels—it’s about how you use them. Avoid GPS apps that route you through residential Amish neighborhoods. Instead, use a printed map or a dedicated Amish Country app like “Amish Country Explorer” that highlights scenic byways and designated tourist routes. Key roads to follow include PA Route 23 (between Lancaster and Intercourse), PA Route 340 (the “Amish Country Byway”), and PA Route 896 (connecting Strasburg to Bird-in-Hand). These roads offer the best views of farmland, barns, and buggies without intruding on private property. Never stop on the side of the road to take photos near homes or farms—this is considered disrespectful. Use designated overlooks and pull-offs marked for tourists. If you’re comfortable, consider renting a bicycle or joining a guided buggy tour for a slower, more intimate perspective. Many local operators offer multi-hour rides with narrated histories of Amish life, which can be profoundly educational.

Step 5: Identify Must-Visit Attractions (Beyond the Obvious)

Most visitors head straight to the Lancaster Central Market or the Amish Farm and House. While these are worthwhile, the true magic lies in lesser-known spots. Here’s a curated list of authentic experiences:

• Shoemaker’s Shop in Ronks – Watch a master cobbler hand-stitch leather boots using 19th-century tools.
• Butterfly Haven & Gardens (Elizabethtown) – A serene, non-Amish-run sanctuary with native plants and butterfly habitats, perfect for quiet reflection.
• Yoder’s Amish Home – A working farm offering guided tours that explain daily routines, from milk collection to quilt-making, without sensationalism.
• Witmer’s Country Store (Intercourse) – A family-run general store since 1928, selling everything from hand-churned butter to wooden toys made on-site.
• Stony Run Covered Bridge – One of the oldest in Lancaster County, best visited early morning for solitude and soft light for photography.
• Amish Quilt Shop in Paradise – Meet quilters who explain the symbolism behind patterns and the years it takes to complete a single quilt.

Remember: Many of these places are small, family-run operations. They don’t advertise online heavily. Ask locals for recommendations—often, the best finds come from conversations with shopkeepers or farmers at roadside stands.

Step 6: Schedule Meals with Local Flavor

Amish Country cuisine is hearty, seasonal, and deeply rooted in tradition. Breakfasts often feature homemade sausage, mashed potatoes, and fresh-baked bread. Lunches are typically simple: fried chicken, noodles, and creamed corn. Dinners may include shoofly pie, whoopie pies, or apple butter on crusty bread. Avoid chain restaurants. Instead, seek out:

• Stoltzfus Farm Restaurant (Bird-in-Hand) – Known for its Sunday roast and homemade apple butter.
• Good’s Restaurant (Lancaster) – A local favorite with a no-frills menu and massive portions.
• Amish Lunches by Appointment – Some families offer home-cooked meals in their kitchens, with advance notice. These are often the most authentic experiences.
• Roadside Produce Stands – Look for signs that say “Fresh Eggs,” “Homemade Jams,” or “Baked Goods.” Many are unmarked but open daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Be prepared to pay cash—many Amish-run businesses don’t accept credit cards. Also, note that meals are served family-style and may take longer than expected. Patience is part of the experience.

Step 7: Respect Cultural Norms and Etiquette

Amish communities live by principles of humility, simplicity, and separation from modern technology. Your behavior directly impacts how they perceive outsiders. Follow these guidelines:

• Never photograph people without permission. Even if they’re in public view, snapping a photo of a person in a buggy or walking down the road is intrusive.
• Do not enter homes, barns, or fields unless explicitly invited. These are private spaces.
• Speak softly in public areas. Loud conversations or cell phone use can be disruptive.
• Do not ask personal questions about religion, family size, or why they don’t use electricity.
• When shopping, be polite and patient. Transactions may be slower, as many Amish people avoid technology.
• Buy local. Supporting Amish artisans and farmers is the most meaningful way to honor their way of life.

These aren’t rules to restrict you—they’re invitations to engage with deeper respect. Many visitors leave with a renewed sense of mindfulness simply by observing these practices.

Step 8: Book Accommodations Thoughtfully

Accommodations range from luxury inns to rustic farm stays. Avoid large hotel chains. Instead, seek out:

• Amish-owned Bed and Breakfasts – Many are run by families who offer home-cooked breakfasts and personal stories. Look for listings on “Amish Country Lodging” websites.
• Historic Inns – Properties like the Historic Hotel Lancaster blend modern comfort with period architecture.
• Farm Stays – Some farms offer overnight stays where guests help with chores like feeding chickens or gathering eggs. These are often booked months in advance.
• Log Cabins and Cottages – Ideal for solitude seekers. Many are located on the edge of farmland with no Wi-Fi—perfect for digital detox.

Book early, especially during fall and spring. Many properties don’t use online booking systems and require phone calls. Keep a local phone number handy—many hosts prefer voice communication.

Step 9: Prepare for a Digital Detox

Amish Country is one of the few places in the U.S. where you can truly unplug. Many B&Bs have no Wi-Fi. Cell service is spotty in rural areas. Embrace this. Download offline maps, save restaurant names and addresses, and bring a physical guidebook. Use your time to observe, listen, and reflect. Bring a journal. Many visitors report that the most memorable parts of their trip were the quiet moments: watching a family walk to church on Sunday morning, hearing the clip-clop of hooves at dawn, or sitting on a porch with a cup of coffee as the sun rose over a cornfield. These are the moments no Instagram post can capture.

Step 10: Plan Your Departure with Intention

Don’t rush out. Leave time on your final morning to visit a local bakery for one last pastry, or stop at a roadside stand to buy a jar of blackberry jam. Consider writing a thank-you note to your host or leaving a small gift—a book on American history, a packet of native wildflower seeds, or a handmade card. These gestures are deeply appreciated. As you drive away, reflect on what you’ve learned—not just about the Amish, but about your own relationship with time, technology, and community.

Best Practices

Travel Slowly and Mindfully

The greatest mistake visitors make is trying to cram too much into one day. Amish Country isn’t a checklist. It’s a rhythm. Allow time to wander, sit, and absorb. Spend an hour in a single shop, talking with the owner. Walk down a quiet lane and watch how children play without screens. Let your pace slow to match the land. You’ll return home not just with souvenirs, but with a new perspective.

Support Local, Not Commercialized

Not all shops labeled “Amish” are run by Amish families. Some are owned by non-Amish entrepreneurs who market products as “Amish-style” to attract tourists. Look for signs that say “Amish Owned” or ask directly: “Is this product made by Amish artisans?” Genuine items—like hand-carved wooden toys, woven baskets, or quilted blankets—are more expensive but carry far more meaning. You’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in a legacy.

Learn Basic Pennsylvania Dutch Phrases

Many Amish people speak Pennsylvania Dutch (a German dialect) at home. While most understand English, learning a few phrases shows respect. Try “Gude morga” (Good morning), “Danki” (Thank you), or “Wie geht’s?” (How are you?). Even a simple smile and nod goes a long way.

Bring Cash and Small Bills

Most Amish-run businesses operate on a cash-only basis. Keep $20s and $10s on hand for purchases at roadside stands, markets, and small shops. ATMs are rare in rural areas, so withdraw cash before heading out.

Engage with Local History

Visit the LancasterHistory.org museum or the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center in Berlin to understand the broader context of Anabaptist migration, religious persecution, and settlement in Pennsylvania. This background transforms your trip from a scenic outing into a meaningful historical journey.

Photograph the Landscape, Not the People

Focus your lens on barns, fields, quilts on clotheslines, and horse-drawn buggies in the distance. Avoid close-ups of individuals. If you want to photograph someone, ask a shopkeeper or tour guide to introduce you—many will politely decline, but some may welcome respectful interaction.

Visit on a Weekday

Weekends, especially Saturday, bring the heaviest tourist traffic. Plan your major stops—markets, museums, and popular farms—for Tuesday through Thursday. You’ll have more space, better service, and a quieter atmosphere.

Be Prepared for Weather

Weather in southeastern Pennsylvania changes quickly. Pack layers, waterproof footwear, and a light rain jacket—even in summer. Fields can be muddy after rain, and cobblestone paths may be slippery.

Leave No Trace

Carry out all trash. Do not litter on roadsides or in parking areas. Many Amish families maintain their land with great care—respect their stewardship.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

• Amish Country Explorer – Offline map with marked attractions, restrooms, and photo overlooks.
• Google Maps (Offline Mode) – Download Lancaster County maps before arrival for navigation without data.
• Yelp (Filter for “Cash Only”) – Helps identify authentic, locally-owned eateries.

Printed Guides and Books

• “Amish Country: A Traveler’s Guide” by Mary Ann Smith – A comprehensive, respectful guide to history, customs, and hidden gems.
• “The Amish: A Concise Introduction” by Donald B. Kraybill – Essential reading for understanding Amish theology and culture.
• Lancaster County Visitor’s Map (Free at Tourist Centers) – Updated annually, includes seasonal events and local business listings.

Official Websites

• www.lancasterpa.org – Official tourism site with event calendars, driving tours, and lodging directories.
• www.amishcountry.org – Non-commercial resource focused on cultural preservation and ethical tourism.
• www.amishandmennoniteheritage.org – Educational center with exhibits and guided tours.

Local Workshops and Classes

Many organizations offer hands-on experiences:

• Amish Country Quilt Workshops – Learn basic stitching techniques from master quilters.
• Woodworking Demonstrations at the Lancaster County Fairgrounds – Watch artisans build furniture using hand tools.
• Farm-to-Table Cooking Classes – Prepare traditional dishes like chow-chow, scrapple, and shoofly pie with local chefs.

Book these in advance—spaces are limited and fill quickly.

Transportation Resources

• Amish Buggy Rides by Yoder’s – Guided tours with historical commentary.
• Lancaster County Bike Trails – Over 50 miles of paved and gravel paths along old rail lines, perfect for quiet exploration.
• Private Driver Services – For those who prefer not to drive, local drivers offer full-day tours with personalized itineraries.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Miller Family’s First Trip

The Millers, a couple from Chicago, planned a four-day trip to Amish Country in October. They booked a farmhouse stay in Strasburg and avoided the busiest markets. Each morning, they drove slowly along PA Route 340, stopping only at unmarked produce stands. One day, they bought a jar of apple butter from a woman who invited them to sit on her porch while she shelled peas. They learned about her family’s 120-year-old orchard and how she preserves recipes passed down from her grandmother. That evening, they dined at a small Amish-run restaurant where the owner, noticing their journal, asked if they wrote about their travels. They shared their reflections, and she smiled and said, “That’s the best souvenir.” The Millers returned home not with bags of souvenirs, but with a renewed appreciation for slowness and connection.

Example 2: The Photographer’s Journey

A professional photographer from New York visited Amish Country in late spring to capture rural life. He spent two weeks in Lancaster County, staying in a cabin with no internet. He photographed barns at sunrise, fields at golden hour, and the texture of handwoven baskets—but never people. He visited three Amish schools during open house days and spoke with teachers about education without technology. His photo series, “Silent Fields,” was later exhibited in a Philadelphia gallery. The accompanying essay, written from his journal entries, became a viral piece in photography magazines—not because of the images, but because of the quiet reverence behind them.

Example 3: The Teacher’s Classroom Trip

A high school history teacher from Maryland took her class on a three-day educational trip. Instead of a museum visit, they stayed at a farm, helped feed chickens, baked bread in a wood-fired oven, and interviewed a local Amish elder. The students wrote reflective essays on simplicity and sustainability. One student wrote: “I thought technology made life easier. But what I saw was a life full of meaning—without a single screen.” The teacher now leads annual trips to Amish Country, emphasizing cultural humility over curiosity.

FAQs

Can I visit Amish homes or churches?

No. Amish homes and worship spaces are private. Worship services are held in homes every other Sunday and are not open to the public. Do not attempt to enter or photograph these areas. Respect their privacy.

Are Amish people friendly to tourists?

Many are polite and patient, especially in business settings. But they are not tour guides. Avoid intrusive questions. A smile and a “Danki” go further than a long conversation.

Do Amish people use modern medicine?

Yes. While they avoid certain technologies, they do use hospitals and doctors when necessary. They may prefer natural remedies, but they are not anti-medical.

Can I buy Amish-made furniture online?

Some legitimate Amish furniture makers have websites, but many sell only through local shops. Buying locally ensures authenticity and supports the community directly.

Is it okay to take pictures of buggies?

Yes—if you photograph them from a distance and do not block roads or interrupt traffic. Never chase a buggy or stand in the middle of the road for a photo.

What’s the best way to support the Amish community?

Buy directly from Amish-owned businesses. Eat at their restaurants. Stay in their B&Bs. Avoid chain stores that market “Amish” products made elsewhere.

Do Amish people speak English?

Most do, especially in business. But Pennsylvania Dutch is their first language at home. Don’t assume they don’t understand English because they speak quietly or slowly.

Can I bring my pet?

Many B&Bs allow pets, but check in advance. Avoid bringing pets to farms or markets, as livestock may be sensitive to unfamiliar animals.

Is Amish Country safe for solo travelers?

Yes. It’s one of the safest regions in Pennsylvania. The pace is slow, the people are watchful, and crime is extremely rare. Still, practice standard safety precautions.

How far in advance should I book?

For peak seasons (fall, spring), book accommodations and workshops at least 3–6 months ahead. For off-season visits, 1–2 months is usually sufficient.

Conclusion

Planning a Pennsylvania road trip to Amish Country is not about ticking off attractions—it’s about entering a world that moves to a different rhythm. It’s about choosing presence over productivity, quiet over noise, and authenticity over spectacle. When done with intention, this journey becomes more than a vacation; it becomes a reflection on what truly matters. You’ll leave with photographs of barns and jars of jam, yes—but more importantly, you’ll carry with you a deeper understanding of patience, community, and the quiet dignity of a life lived with purpose. The Amish don’t seek your admiration. But they will welcome your respect. And in that exchange, you may find something you didn’t know you were searching for: a slower, sweeter way of being. So pack your map, leave your phone behind when you can, and drive with an open heart. Amish Country isn’t just a place on a map. It’s a lesson in living.