Amish Country is a destination for families, couples, and friends of all ages. I grew up in Amish Country, and even though I’ve lived away for nearly 20 years, I keep going back. It’s more than just the amazing cheese, slower pace of life, and beautiful rolling hills – it’s a place to create amazing family memories.
Holmes County, Ohio is home to the world’s largest Amish settlement. A place where the clip-clop of horses replace the busy sounds of the freeway. The smell of locally baked pies is a welcome substitute for big-box bakeries. Yes, there’s a reason why visitors to Amish Country, Ohio return year after year.
Here are my suggestions for the best things to do in Amish Country, Ohio – places to eat authentic Amish food, experience animal encounters, and learn about the unique history of this area.
Things to eat in Amish Country – my favorite foodie finds
- Try a massive cinnamon roll or cream stick at Miller’s Bakery – Miller’s Bakery, located between Millersburg and Charm is an Amish bakery that’s popular with locals and travelers. While you’re there, visit their little gift shop with Amish-made potholders and toys. Miller’s Bakery is located at 4250 Township Rd 356, Millersburg.
- Heini’s Cheese. Heini’s Cheese Chalet is one of the first stops for visitors to Amish Country, Ohio. During the week you can watch the cheese being made (The best times are Mon, Tue, Thur, and Friday from 8-noon)! Sadly, cheese samples are no longer given (another sad byproduct of COVID), but it’s still fun to peruse the many cheese flavors! Heini’s Cheese is located at 6005 CR 77, Millersburg.
- Plan your own wine-tasting tour – Amish Country has emerged as a fantastic place to visit wineries. From Sunny Slope and Ugly Bunny Winery on the west end of the county to Breitenbach and Swiss Heritage winery near Dover, there are wines for everyone! For more info, check out some of my favorite wineries in Amish Country.
- Grab a meal and a beer at Millersburg Brewing Co. Millersburg Brewing Co (menu here) is one of my favorite date nights in Amish Country. I know it doesn’t really fit the Amish brand, but it’s become such a staple of downtown Millersburg, and made my hometown a whole lot cooler! 😉 My absolute favorite is the French Ridge IPA. While you’re there, try the buffalo cauliflower appetizer. Millersburg Brewing Co is located at 60 E. Jackson St, Millersburg.
- Try an apple cider slushie from Hillcrest Orchard. My favorite fall treat is a delectable apple cider slushie – it’s the perfect blend of sweet & sour, and does not feel like fall in Amish Country without one. Hillcrest is also the place to buy apples in bulk, plus all your pumpkins and gourds.
- Eat breakfast at Boyd & Wurthmann – Boyd & Wurthmann is to Amish Country what Christmas trees are to Christmas. If you don’t believe me, check out the line out the door on a Saturday morning and just about any time of the day during October. Fill up on all your breakfast favorites at Boyd & Wurthmann before heading out for a day of shopping and sightseeing. If you want a treat for later, buy a slice of pie and ask for it to go! Boyd and Wurthmann is located at 4819 E Main St, Berlin.
- Try the kettle corn at Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery. Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery is a multi-faceted destination (more on that later), but their kettle corn is also amazing and it’s usually served up by a local Amish man. Get the biggest bag. You’re welcome. 😉 Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery is located at5452 OH-557, Millersburg.
- Drink your coffee inside an Amish buggy at Buggy Brew Coffee Co. Buggy Brew is located inside Country Gatherings!
- Rebecca’s Bistro is my absolute favorite spot for lunch, especially in the warmer months when the patio is open. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a sandwich and iced tea, just make sure you leave room for her delectable desserts. Rebecca’s Bistro is located at 4986 Walnut St, Walnut Creek.
- Indulge your tastebuds at Coblentz Chocolates. Coblentz Chocolates is known throughout the area for its premier chocolate. Visiting their headquarters in downtown Walnut Creek makes it hard to resist- the smell alone will entice you to make a purchase! Make sure you also check out the viewing gallery to watch the chocolates being made! Coblentz Chocolates is located at 4917 OH-515, Walnut Creek, OH.
Pro-tip: Der Dutchman, Coblentz Chocolate, and Rebecca's Bistro are within a stone's throw of each other in Walnut Creek. Walnut Creek is also the perfect place to stay overnight, as it's centrally located to all of these great attractions. Check out my list of hotels in Walnut Creek, Ohio.
- Try an Amish pie at Der Dutchman or Amish Door. It’s really hard to pick a winner when it comes to the most amazing baked goods! I hate to name a favorite. Check out both the bakery at Der Dutchman and Amish Door and let me know what you think!
- Buy a ring of Troyer’s Trail bologna at the place it originated! For over 100 years, locals have been enjoying Troyer’s Trail bologna – still run by the same family and crafted with the original recipe! The retail counter is an historic spot to sit and enjoy a trail & swiss sandwich. Troyer’s is located at 6552, SR 515, Dundee.
- Guggisberg Cheese is known for cheese – and its idyllic location in the Doughty Valley just adds to the appeal. You must try the Swiss & Baby Swiss Cheese, after all, these recently were placed #2 in the WORLD at the World Cheese Championship. They are Grand Champions in the National Contest.
- Eat a donut the size of your head at Amish Country Donuts. Need a spot for coffee and a sugar rush?! I highly recommend a visit to Amish Country Donuts. Not only are their sourdough donuts YUGE, but they also taste delicious. Amish Country Donuts is located at 522 Dover Road Northeast, Sugarcreek.
Family-friendly things to do with Amish Country
- Play putt-putt golf at Country Acres or Cabin Creek Golf! Let’s be honest, at some point, kids get bored with sightseeing and just want to do something for themselves. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, there are two minigolf courses in the area. Country Acres is located right in front of the Berlin Encore Hotel at 4367 State Route 39, Berlin. Cabin Creek is located between Sugarcreek & Baltic at 1361 CR 108, Sugarcreek.
- Watch the time change at the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock. Downtown Sugarcreek is home to the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock. It’s not just a check on the Bucket List, it’s actually fairly entertaining.
- Enjoy the petting zoo and a buggy ride at Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery. Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery is the first place that we take visitors from out of town! It’s great for kids of ALL ages – I mean, who doesn’t love holding a baby bunny or taking a buggy ride? Here’s my guide to the Amish Country petting zoo.
- Love animal encounters? You may also want to visit The Farm at Walnut Creek. Visitors can either drive their own car around the property- or take a wagon ride. This is sure to delight the kids and give the adults a good laugh! The Farm at Walnut Creek is located at 4147 CR 114, Walnut Creek.
For more great family-friendly things to do in Amish Country, check out this post on FREE things to do in Amish Country with kids.
Shopping in Amish Country
One of the most popular things to do in Amish Country, Ohio is SHOP! There are so many amazing local stores and little gift shops, you could easily spend a week just shopping. Here are a few suggestions (and yes, I know I’m missing some).
- Go antique and boutique shopping in downtown Millersburg. My favorites are the Antique Emporium and Jackson Street Antiques. For the most beautiful home decor, check out Cottonwood Shanty.
- Shop for Christmas Year-round at ‘Tis the Season. ‘Tis the Season is the ONLY year-round Christmas shop in Ohio!
- Shop til you drop at the downtown Berlin Merchants. Kaufman’s Kountry Accents, Studio 4 Designs, and The Red Poppy are a few of my favorites
- Search for surplus items (like Target returns) at 61 Surplus. All of the profits go to orphans, and I’ve found great buys on kid’s shoes and clothes and home decor items.
- Become a fashionista at Farmhouse Frocks, Sheiyah Style Boutique, or BFearless. If you love cutting-edge fashion, beautiful jewelry, and awesome accessories, you’ve found it!
- Find everything you need to live off the grid at Lehman’s Hardware. Lehman’s has been an institution in Wayne County for many years, but a recent uptick in homesteading makes this even a cooler place. Check out Lehman’s website for educational classes and special events.
- Buy one-of-a-kind pottery at Holmes County Pottery. Visiting Holmes County Pottery is like stepping back into the Holmes County in which I grew up – quiet, unassuming, and handcrafted. You have to add this to your visit. Holmes County Pottery is located at 8500 CR 373, Big Prairie.
- Shop local at Bent N Dent Grocery Store. Bent N Dent Stores are loved by the locals, but I think it’s worth stopping by as a visitor. I don’t know if it’s the gas lighting, range of knick-knacks, or low prices on snacks, but I recommend visiting at least once. There is a local brochure of locations – look for it at hotels and the Visitor Bureau.
- It’s a cheese and everything superstore – Walnut Creek Cheese! For great cheese, baked goods, home goods, and more, you must visit Walnut Creek Cheese. If you get weary while you’re there, have lunch at Mudd Valley Cafe! The Walnut Creek location is located at 2641 OH-39, Walnut Creek.
Visiting Amish Country on a Sunday? No worries! Check out my list of things to do in Amish Country on a Sunday.
Museums
- Relive history in a walk through the Victorian House. The Victorian House was built in 1902 by wealthy Cleveland Industrialist, L. H. Brightman. The 28-room mansion is not only a magnificent example of Queen Anne-style architecture but also contains over 4,000 square feet of beautiful antiques and local artifacts. The home is host to many excellent events during the year, but at Christmas, it truly shines with most rooms decorated in holiday splendor. The Victorian House is located at 484 Wooster Rd, Millersburg. Check the website for hours before visiting, the house is open from 1-4 pm, April – October.
For more holiday events in Holmes County, check out this post of Holiday Events in Amish Country.
- View exquisite carnival glass at the Millersburg Glass Museum. John Fenton of, yes, that Fenton family, made Millersburg known for iridescent Carnival glass, which has wooed collectors from around the world. This museum tells the story of John Fenton’s time in Millersburg and numerous displays showcase a large collection of some of the most prized pieces. The Millersburg Glass Museum is located next door to the Victorian House, so make sure you buy the combination ticket and see both.
Read my full review of the Millersburg Glass Museum.
- Gain an understanding of Amish Culture at the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center. The centerpiece of this attraction is the 10-foot by 265-foot circular mural, called Behalt. Behalt tells the history of the Amish & Mennonite people and since the beginning of the Reformation in the 1500s. I’d recommend starting your visit to Holmes County with this attraction. You can also visit a one-room Amish schoolroom and learn how children of the Amish faith are taught.
- Yoder’s Amish Home – Yoder’s Amish Home is another stop that we make when visitors come in from out of the state or the country. If you want a introduction to Amish life, Yoder’s home includes a home tour, schoolhouse tour, and a buggy ride. It is best to purchase the combination ticket and experience the entire property.
Outdoor things to do in Amish Country
- Have your mind blown at Holmes County Open Air Art Museum. The Holmes County OAAM is not your typical art museum, it’s entirely outdoors! Works of the museum are spread out along a 1.5-mile hilly trail on the grounds at the Inn at Honey Run. The Inn allows anyone to access the trail, but please be courteous to guests of the hotel. You can learn more about this awesome attraction at Travel Inspired Living. The Art Museum is located at 6920 Co Rd 203, Millersburg.
- Watch a waterfall at Dundee Falls. This beautiful little hiking area at the Beach City Wildlife Preserve is a massive break from all the farmland and sites of Amish Country.
- Walk on the Rails to Trails – The Millersburg Rails to Trails is the only dual-purpose trail in the state – as in, it’s for bikes and BUGGIES. You’ll likely encounter a lot of Amish on bikes, too. There is parking at Hipp Station in Millersburg, located at 62 N. Grant St.
- Take a scenic drive on the Amish Country Byway. – With over 160 miles of designated roadway, there’s plenty to explore. My favorite sections are 557 S from Millersburg to Charm (you’ll be happy to pass by the Hershberger Farm & Bakery, Miller’s Bakery, Guggisberg Cheese, and Keim Lumber all in one go), and SR 241 from Millersburg to Mt. Hope (Beware the turns)!
- Explore Hollywood & History at nearby Malabar Farm – Less than an hour from Holmes County is the beautiful Malabar Farm State Park. Not only was the Big House the wedding site for actors Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart, but the property was also a filming location in The Shawshank Redemption. Visitors will want to allow enough time to peruse the Visitor’s Center, take a tour of the Big House, and hike one of the trails. Here is my full guide to Malabar Farm.
- Cross a swinging bridge or climb a fire tower at Mohican State Park. Mohican State Park is roughly 45 minutes from Amish Country. This State Park is home to many amazing features, such as Big Lyons and Little Lyons Falls, the Pleasant Hill Dam, and a circa 1930s Fire Tower. If you’re feeling extra courageous (and packed good shoes), try to newly reopened Gorge Overlook Trail! Here’s my full guide to Mohican State Park.
Four seasons of things to do in Amish Country
- Spring into the season at the Home and Garden Show at the Mt. Hope Event Center. Local vendors showcasing everything from bathroom renovations to playsets and even e-Bikes are on display to motivate and inspire you to spruce up your pad. It’s also great people watching! The Mt. Hope Event Center is located at 8076 SR 241, Millersburg.
- Easter Adventure at The Farm at Walnut Creek. Considering the property doesn’t use electricty, it’s a bit of a shock that they actually drop Easter eggs from a helicopter! WHAT?! This is fun on the farm for all ages!
- Try Dandelion Wine at Breitenbach’s Dandelion Festival. You read that right! Breitenbach Winery actually harvests local dandelions to make their dandelion wine and sangria! Celebrate the spring season at their Dandelion Festival.
- The Fall Festival at The Farm at Walnut Creek. Fall is my favorite time on the Farm. The Fall Festival happens Fridays and Saturdays in October and it is so much fun! Pumpkin slingshots! A giant corn pit! An epiccstack of hay (for climbing)! You really have to see it to believe it, this is a great place to bring a friend. Pro-tip: Visit on a Friday afternoon when it’s likely to be less busy.
- The Swiss Festival in the Little Switzerland of Ohio- Sugarcreek. (Event schedule here). We go to the Swiss Festival every October. Yes, my mother-in-law lives in Sugarcreek, so it’s kind of a given, but truly, the Swiss Festival gets better and better every year! The main parade on Saturday is so much fun- local vendors give out so many samples and candy, this is like Christmas #2 for my kids! Stay after the parade for the Steinstossen, a Swiss sport in which contestants try to throw a giant rock the greatest distance. It is stressful for this worrywart, for sure someone is going to pull out their back or break their neck! After all of that stress, hit the local craft beer tent. 😉
- The Berlin Live Nativity Parade – The Christmas Season begins in Berlin with a live nativity parade down Main Street in Berlin. Yes, there are live camels! This event takes place the Friday after Thanksgiving.
- Walnut Creek’s Journey to Bethlehem – During the xperience the sights and sounds that Mary & Joseph may have experienced on that fateful night. Visitors will meet Biblical characters and interact with them and they drive and walk through the area. This event takes place the first weekend in December. Tip: Arrive early and dress warmly!
Check out these additional posts: Amish Country in the fall & Holiday Events in Amish Country
Flowers & roadside stands in Amish Country
Roadside stands are a hallmark of Amish Country! Here is a list of some of my favorites!
Flourish Fields – Flourish Fields is a year-round flower stand with homemade arrangements and gifts. Stop in and pick out a present for that special someone.
Wysteria Shack – The Wysteria Shack is the most darling little roadside stand with fresh-cut flowers, arrangements, candles, and succulents. They are open year-round. The address is 7750 County Road 201, Fredericksburg.
Hummingbird Hill – Hummingbird Hill is a 6-acre flower farm that allows visitors to walk through the fields and purchase their flowers to take home! Special events and seasonal workshops make this flower farm even more unique. They are located at 10055 South Funk Road, Shreve.
Pro-tip: A perfect summer Saturday afternoon may include a visit to Hummingbird Hill, then shopping at Holmes County pottery, finished off with a drink at Sunny Slope Winery.
Blessing Acres Produce – Self-serve produce and vegetable stand with local flowers and honey. I recommend visiting in the fall to see their special display and purchase mums. Blessing Acres is located at 6735 TR 362, Millersburg.
Sweetwater Farm – One of my favorite stops in Amish Country is Sweetwater Farm. Mary & Bert Hostetler are the owners, and they offer an array of fresh vegetables, hanging baskets, and friendly service. Pro-tip: Visit in mid-July to see the field of sunflowers in bloom. It is a sight to behold! Sweetwater Farm is located at 217 Buckeye St., Sugarcreek.
Amish Furniture & Construction
Purchasing furniture is one of the most popular things to do in Amish Country! Here are a few places to check out.
- Keim Lumber in Charm is the home renovation & woodworking wonderland! You have to visit once, I’m sure you’ll be back! There’s even a cafe on-site if you need a chance to rest. Keim Lumber is located at 4465 OH-557, Charm.
- Stone Barn Furnishings – Two floors of Amish-made furniture in quaint Mt. Hope. Stone Barn Furnishings is located at 8613 TR 635 (On State Route 241).
- Kaufmann Lawn Furniture – If you’re coming to Amish Country in the hopes of leaving with furnishings for your deck or patio, Kaufmann Lawn Furniture is the place to stop! They have everything from dining sets to gazebos. Kaufmann Lawn Furniture is located at 4540 U.S. 62, Millersburg.
- Weaver Barns – Weaver Barns is more than just Amish-made sheds! Don’t tell my husband (can’t have him getting any ideas), but Weaver Barns is one of my favorite stops along SR 39! Mostly, I’m smitten with the model home – I would move right in if they’d let me! Make sure you stop during their open hours and see for yourself. They are located at 1696 State Route 39, Sugarcreek.
Unique Places to Stay
One of the most special parts of planning an Amish Country vacation is picking the place to stay! There are so many beautiful Inns, Airbnbs, and hotels in Amish Country. This is just a short list of some of my favorite unique lodgings. For more information, check out my post of the best places to stay in Amish Country.
- Sleep in a treehouse. Amish Country Lodging offers treehouses for 2 and 6 people. The convenient location near Berlin is perfect for couples looking for some quiet, but wanting to be close to the action. Check rates now – treehouses for two and treehouses for six.
- Sleep under the stars in a glamorous tiny home. The Lux Tiny Home is located in Berlin, Ohio; just a short drive away from downtown. Understated elegance and modern amenities make this the perfect place to unwind with your spouse and make amazing memories. The jacuzzi with a skylight is a great place to start! Book The Lux tiny home.
- Stay in a convenient family-friendly Berlin apartment. We loved staying at the Wurthmann House in downtown Berlin. This 2-bedroom accommodation is so nice for families that want to be just steps away from shopping and dining in Amish Country, including Boyd & Wurthmann. Check rates now.
- Sleep in a honeycomb. The Inn at Honey Run is home to unique suites that are built into the hillside. These are the perfect place for couples to unwind or celebrate a special event.
- Bed down in a barn! It sounds rustic, but The Barn Inn is anything but! This beautiful bed and breakfast lives in a restored bank barn.
- Hear the buggies pass by from this spacious home in Western Holmes County – The Bluebird Cottage is a kid-friendly 3-bedroom home in the idyllic countryside of Western Holmes County.
- Stay the night in a unique, pet-friendly shipping container. Located in Tuscarawas County near Dover, this converted shipping container is the perfect place to jump in the hot tub and relax after a busy day of shopping and dining in Amish Country. Read my full review of the shipping container.
So tell me, what are your favorite things to do in Amish Country, Ohio? Any new items to add to your list? I’d appreciate hearing from you in the comment section below!
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