Lancaster County, Pennsylvania is home to one of the largest Amish communities in the United States. For visitors, experiencing Amish life can be a unique and fascinating way to learn about this traditional culture. Here are a few ways to immerse yourself in Amish life during your visit to Lancaster County:
There are several ways to experience the traditional way of life of the Amish community in Lancaster County, PA. Some popular options include:
Tour an Amish farm
One of the best ways to experience Amish life is by taking a tour of an Amish farm. You’ll get a firsthand look at the simple, traditional way of life, their daily routines, and the customs that the Amish have maintained for centuries. You’ll see the farm animals, learn about the crops they grow, and see the traditional tools and equipment they use.
Some things you might see on an Amish farm tour include:
- Horse-drawn equipment: Many Amish farms use horse-drawn equipment for plowing fields and other farming tasks, rather than tractors or other machinery.
- Traditional farming methods: You may see the farmers using traditional methods for planting, harvesting, and caring for their crops and livestock.
- Handmade products: Some Amish farms produce handmade goods such as quilts, baskets, and furniture that may be available for purchase.
- Simple living: You may see simple, traditional buildings and homes, as well as evidence of a self-sufficient lifestyle.
- Family life: You may see families working together on the farm, and learn about the importance of family and community in Amish culture.
- Religious practices: Many amish farms have a separate building for religious practices like church service or Sunday school.
- Animals: Many amish farms have animals like cows, pigs, sheep, and chickens that are raised for milk, meat, and eggs.
- Gardens: Many amish farms have large gardens for growing fruits and vegetables for their own consumption.
- Farming equipment: Instead of tractors, you might see equipment like scythes, plows, and hand tools that are used for farming.
- Modest clothing: You may see men wearing plain shirts, trousers, suspenders and hats, and women wearing modest, traditional clothing like long dresses and head coverings.
Visit an Amish Market
Amish markets are a great place to find locally made goods, including furniture, quilts, and other crafts. You can also find fresh produce and baked goods, all made by the Amish community. Many markets also offer buggy rides and other activities to give you an authentic experience of the Amish lifestyle.
Amish Village
By providing an authentic representation of how the Amish have lived in Lancaster County for over 300 years, the Amish Village aims to educate people about the Pennsylvania Amish. They are able to speak with respect and knowledge about the heritage and traditions of the local Amish because of our relationship with them. By touring the Amish Farmhouse, Village grounds, and Lancaster County backroads, you can discover what makes Lancaster County and the Plain Community so special.
Kitchen Kettle Village
Visit Kitchen Kettle Village and sample homemade jams, jellies, and other products. Located in a quaint, walkable Lancaster, PA village with local cooks, quilters, and shopkeepers, Kitchen Kettle Village is a place to share laughter, carve out family time, and enjoy Lancaster, PA hospitality. In Kitchen Kettle Village, you will always find a warm smile and lots of friendly faces, whether you are looking for delicious homemade food, shopping locally made, or your favorite brands.
Take a Buggy Ride
One of the most iconic images of Amish life is the horse-drawn buggy. Take a ride and experience the slow pace of life, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Amish countryside.
Visit an Amish Schoolhouse
Amish children attend traditional one-room schoolhouses, and you can visit one of these schools to learn about the education system of the Amish community.
Stay at an Amish-owned B&B
For a truly authentic experience, consider staying at an Amish-owned bed and breakfast. Many B&Bs are run by Amish families and offer a glimpse into their daily lives and customs.
Lancaster County Farmer’s Market
At an Amish farmers market, you may see a variety of locally grown produce, such as fruits and vegetables, as well as baked goods, jams and jellies, canned goods, and homemade crafts. These items are typically made by the Amish community and sold directly to the consumer. You may also find Amish-made furniture and other household items. Many farmers’ markets also have live animals such as cows, pigs, chickens, or horses.
Sample Traditional Amish Cuisine
Amish cooking is known for its hearty, comforting dishes made from locally grown ingredients. Try traditional dishes like shoofly pie, chow-chow, and chicken pot pie.
Shady Maple Smorgasbord
Largest smorgasbord restaurant in Lancaster County.
Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant
This award-winning smorgasbord features mouthwatering American favorites as well as authentic Pennsylvania Dutch heritage dishes, including carved top sirloin and turkey breasts, golden fried chicken, chilled steamed shrimp, baked hams and fish, chicken corn soup, baked cabbage, and bakery-fresh desserts.
Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord
Grandma Smucker’s Pennsylvania Dutch recipes and farm-fresh foods.
Hershey Farm Restaurant
Featuring PA Dutch recipes and delicious Grand Smorgasbord.
Conclusion
By experiencing Amish life in Lancaster County, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this unique culture and its customs. While Lancaster County is known for its Amish heritage, it’s important to remember that these are living communities and to treat them and their way of life with respect.