Issues To Do In Amish Nation – Lancaster, PA

Elijahkirtley


Within the serene panorama of Pennsylvania Dutch Nation, Lancaster County presents a captivating glimpse into the normal world of the Amish. This pastoral area, with its rolling farmland, lined bridges and horse-drawn buggies, appears misplaced in time – a spot the place an easier lifestyle nonetheless thrives.

On a current getaway to Lancaster, we had the prospect to immerse ourselves in Amish tradition, historical past, and legendary consolation meals. What we found was an unexpectedly wealthy and rewarding expertise, filled with heat hospitality, scrumptious home-cooking, and a profound sense of peace.

A wide view of a farm field with two Amish farmers, one adult and one child, walking through freshly plowed rows. The background features lush green trees, farm buildings, and rolling hills.
A wide view of a farm field with two Amish farmers, one adult and one child, walking through freshly plowed rows. The background features lush green trees, farm buildings, and rolling hills. Amish farmers, younger and previous, work collectively in Lancaster County fields | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

From the second we arrived, it was clear Lancaster strikes at a distinct tempo. The panorama is a patchwork of neatly tended farms, whitewashed barns and quaint outlets. Alongside winding nation roads, you’ll spot Amish households touring by horse and buggy, girls in bonnets working in gardens, and kids using on kick scooters.

This bucolic surroundings alone makes Lancaster well worth the journey. However to really recognize Amish Nation, we discovered it’s the folks, experiences and flavors you encounter that go away essentially the most lasting impression.

Issues To Do In Amish Nation – Lancaster, PA

Keep at AmishView Inn & Suites: Serene Luxurious Surrounded by Farmland

A rural landscape with fields of different crops in various shades of green and brown. In the foreground, two horses are pulling a farm implement across a field. The background shows more fields, hay bales, and a line of trees under a blue sky with wispy clouds.
A rural landscape with fields of different crops in various shades of green and brown. In the foreground, two horses are pulling a farm implement across a field. The background shows more fields, hay bales, and a line of trees under a blue sky with wispy clouds. The view of a working Amish farm from AmishView Inn & Suites | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Our immersive Amish Nation expertise started on the distinctive AmishView Inn & Suites. Located on a AAA scenic byway with beautiful views of surrounding Amish farms, this top-rated Lancaster lodge presents an upscale environment with genuine Amish attraction.

We stayed within the adults-only constructing and have been totally spoiled by our Grand King Suite. This spacious sanctuary featured hovering 10-foot home windows framing idyllic farmland views, a kitchenette, a spacious residing space, and tremendous comfortable king mattress. 

And, once they say “AmishView,” they honestly imply it. From dawn to sundown, we may watch the native Amish farming and using buggies proper from the consolation of our room.

A spacious hotel room featuring a large king-sized bed with white bedding in the foreground. Two bedside tables with lamps flank the bed, and a plush, patterned carpet covers the floor. In the background, there’s a seating area with a gray sofa and armchair facing a window that offers an expansive view of green fields under a clear sky. To the right, there’s a wooden desk with another lamp and chair. The room is well-lit by natural light from the window and warm artificial lighting.
A spacious hotel room featuring a large king-sized bed with white bedding in the foreground. Two bedside tables with lamps flank the bed, and a plush, patterned carpet covers the floor. In the background, there’s a seating area with a gray sofa and armchair facing a window that offers an expansive view of green fields under a clear sky. To the right, there’s a wooden desk with another lamp and chair. The room is well-lit by natural light from the window and warm artificial lighting. Class meets consolation within the Grand King room at AmishView Inn & Suites | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

One other standout function was the big, luxurious lavatory. Every Grand King Suite has a Victoria + Albert clawfoot tub excellent for soaking, positioned proper in entrance of its personal TV. There’s additionally an enormous bathe with frameless glass doorways and delicate lighting that units the temper. The toilet has top-quality fixtures, a separate water closet, Tarocco shampoo and soaps, a lighted mirror for doing all of your make-up, and a hair dryer – all the pieces you want to pamper your self.

A spacious bathroom featuring a freestanding white bathtub with clawfoot detailing. Above the bathtub, there is a wall-mounted towel holder with a white towel hanging on it. To the right of the bathtub, there is a sink with a faucet and what appears to be soap on the counter. Above the sink, there is an oval mirror flanked by wall lights on either side, and to its right, there’s a magnifying mirror with lighting. On the left side of the image, mounted on the wall, is a flat-screen television. The walls are painted in light beige tones, and the flooring appears to be wooden
A spacious bathroom featuring a freestanding white bathtub with clawfoot detailing. Above the bathtub, there is a wall-mounted towel holder with a white towel hanging on it. To the right of the bathtub, there is a sink with a faucet and what appears to be soap on the counter. Above the sink, there is an oval mirror flanked by wall lights on either side, and to its right, there’s a magnifying mirror with lighting. On the left side of the image, mounted on the wall, is a flat-screen television. The walls are painted in light beige tones, and the flooring appears to be wooden The luxurious lavatory within the Grand King room at AmishView Inn & Suites | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Every morning we seemed ahead to the well-known AmishView sizzling breakfast buffet, served within the sun-soaked Nice Room. This beneficiant and complimentary unfold, praised as certainly one of Lancaster’s finest, fueled our days with hearty choices like fluffy waffles, savory sausages, farm-fresh eggs and omelets made to order. Stress-free over espresso whereas horse-drawn buggies rode by within the distance was an effective way to start out the day in Amish Nation!

A well-balanced breakfast plate featuring scrambled eggs, crispy bacon strips, a sausage link, diced potatoes, and a cinnamon roll. A white mug of coffee completes the meal.
A well-balanced breakfast plate featuring scrambled eggs, crispy bacon strips, a sausage link, diced potatoes, and a cinnamon roll. A white mug of coffee completes the meal. A plate from the legendary AmishView breakfast buffet | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Make sure to reap the benefits of the lodge’s indoor pool, whirlpool and well-equipped health middle. Be at liberty to wind down every night with a soothing swim or soak and think about the sensible sundown over the farmland. 

Interior view of a jacuzzi at Amish View Inn with agitated water. The jacuzzi is surrounded by beige tiles and has steps leading down into it. Large windows offer a view of the outside, showcasing green fields and a fence. A black plaque with white text is visible on the wall.
Interior view of a jacuzzi at Amish View Inn with agitated water. The jacuzzi is surrounded by beige tiles and has steps leading down into it. Large windows offer a view of the outside, showcasing green fields and a fence. A black plaque with white text is visible on the wall. The big whirlpool within the indoor pool space of AmishView Inn & Suites | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

From check-in to check-out, AmishView Inn & Suites was the right residence base for our countryside journey. From breathtaking farm views, to scrumptious homestyle breakfasts, and its unbelievable location – we have been fully immersed in native tradition. We will’t wait to return!

Savor Native Flavors at Smokehouse BBQ and Brews

Smokehouse BBQ and Brews at AmishView Inn & Suites – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

As a lot as we adored AmishView Inn & Suites, certainly one of Lancaster’s greatest attracts is undoubtedly the exceptional Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. Fortunately, one of many space’s finest eating places is actually proper subsequent door.

The Smokehouse Stacker | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Smokehouse BBQ and Brews serves up mouthwatering barbecue and luxury meals classics in a relaxed setting simply subsequent door. The tantalizing scent of slow-smoked meats hits you the second you enter and the environment is enjoyable, informal, and alluring. 

Every little thing right here is comprised of scratch utilizing native elements. You possibly can style the standard, from the succulent Burnt Brisket Ends basted in White Horse sauce to the mammoth Smokehouse Stacker piled excessive with beef, pulled pork, slaw and fixings. Alongside honey-butter slathered corn muffins and decadent mac n’ cheese, it’s a carnivore’s dream.

The Smokehouse Rib Combo | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

The Smokehouse Rib Combo with a half-rack and your selection of smoked meat is the most effective of each worlds. We opted for the pull-apart tender pulled pork and have been gleefully lined in barbecue sauce by the final savory chunk.

Don’t overlook to pattern their domestically crafted brews, spirits and wines for an genuine style of Lancaster. After a meal right here, you’ll perceive why Smokehouse is a pilgrimage-worthy vacation spot for barbecue lovers!

Store for Handcrafted Treasures at Plain and Fancy Nation Retailer

Plain and Fancy Nation Retailer – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Earlier than leaving Smokehouse, be sure you browse the adjoining Plain and Fancy Nation Retailer. This spacious store carries a fastidiously curated assortment of handcrafted Amish clothes, toys, crafts, decor and meals that showcase the group’s unimaginable artisanship.

There’s additionally a mouthwatering array of genuine Pennsylvania Dutch sweets and snacks like whoopie pies, shoofly pie, chow chow and jams comprised of Amish household recipes. It’s the right spot to choose up distinctive presents and attractive souvenirs.

Discover The Quilt Store at Miller’s: Amish Quilting at Its Best

The Quilt Shop at Miller's - Lancaster, PA
The Quilt Shop at Miller's - Lancaster, PA The Quilt Store at Miller’s – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Amish Nation is known for its stunningly intricate handmade quilts. At The Quilt Store at Miller’s, you’ll be able to witness the fascinating custom of Amish quilting in its full glory.

Established in 1998, this specialised retailer boasts over 1000 beautiful hand-stitched quilts, wall-hangings, pillows and textiles made by native Amish and Mennonite artisans. Displayed in a brilliant 3500 sq ft showroom, the craftsmanship and artistry on show is jaw-dropping.

Vibrant and iconic patterns burst from every quilt in a kaleidoscope of shade and element. The stitching is impossibly exact, with hundreds of tiny uniform stitches making a supple but substantial texture. The period of time required to finish this course of can fluctuate relying on components comparable to the scale of the material and the complexity of the design, with some quilts taking as much as 1000 hours to complete! 

Whether or not you’re a critical collector or just an admirer of handmade magnificence, The Quilt Store at Miller’s offers an unimaginable alternative to personal a one-of-a-kind, future heirloom that may be cherished for generations. With a spread of sizes and designs for each style and funds, you’re certain to search out a tremendous quilt to take residence.

Inventory Up on The Flavors of Amish Nation at Domestically Made Meals Store

Domestically Made Meals Store – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Talking of take-home treats, no go to to Lancaster is full with out stocking up on genuine Pennsylvania Dutch meals and baked items. And there’s no higher place to get your repair than Domestically Made Meals Store.

Situated subsequent to The Quilt Store, this pleasant retailer encompasses a huge number of Amish-made candy and savory delicacies ready utilizing conventional recipes and native elements. Cabinets are lined with jars of chow chow, pepper jam, bacon dressing, fruit butters and pickled all the pieces alongside fresh-baked shoofly pies, gooey whoopie pies, sticky buns and signature breads.

With its ample number of domestically made delicacies you’ll be able to’t discover elsewhere, Domestically Made is an absolute must-stop for foodies. Simply go away further room in your automobile – you’ll want it for all of the mouthwatering goodies you’ll wish to carry again!

Dine at Miller’s Smorgasbord: Serving Amish Feasts for Practically a Century!

A plate loaded with various foods from Miller's, including fried chicken, roast beef with horseradish, mashed potatoes, corn, candied yams, and salad.
A plate loaded with various foods from Miller's, including fried chicken, roast beef with horseradish, mashed potatoes, corn, candied yams, and salad. A hearty and satisfying plate from Miller’s Smorgasbord – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

No go to to Lancaster County is full with out indulging in an genuine Pennsylvania Dutch smorgasbord. And for nearly 100 years, Miller’s Smorgasbord has been the go-to spot for experiencing this delectable Amish custom.

Miller’s story started in 1929 when Anna Miller began serving her well-known rooster & waffles to hungry truckers whereas her husband repaired their rigs. Phrase of her scrumptious down-home cooking shortly unfold, and shortly Anna’s humble truck-stop diner developed into Miller’s Smorgasbord, a Lancaster establishment now in its fourth era of household possession.

Interior view of Miller's Smorgasbord showing multiple food stations, including a "Soups & Breads" area. The space has carpeted floors and pendant lighting.
Interior view of Miller's Smorgasbord showing multiple food stations, including a "Soups & Breads" area. The space has carpeted floors and pendant lighting. You’ll discover over 1000 scrumptious objects at Miller’s Smorgasbord – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

At the moment, the restaurant serves a huge smorgasbord menu that includes over 100 objects, all comprised of scratch utilizing Anna’s time-honored recipes and recent native elements. However whereas the menu has expanded, the nice and cozy hospitality and dedication to homestyle cooking stays unchanged.

Dinner at Miller’s is a belly-busting affair, so arrive hungry and put on your stretchy pants. 

Countless rows of Pennsylvania Dutch consolation meals span so far as the attention can see – succulent slow-roasted beef, crispy fried rooster, savory rooster pot pie with home made noodles, creamy baked cabbage, and a lot extra.

A bowl of chicken pot pie with chunks of chicken, carrots, and potatoes visible in a creamy broth. A spoonful is being lifted from the bowl.
A bowl of chicken pot pie with chunks of chicken, carrots, and potatoes visible in a creamy broth. A spoonful is being lifted from the bowl. Miller’s genuine, Amish rooster pot pie | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Make sure to attempt Anna’s authentic rooster and waffles, an Amish Nation basic that includes tender, juicy fried rooster atop a golden malted waffle – a heavenly pairing of candy and savory. Different must-try dishes embrace the mouthwatering Swedish meatballs, beef burgundy, and an infinite provide of recent, peel-and-eat shrimp.

Simply while you assume you’ll be able to’t presumably eat one other chunk, the dessert bar presents a decadent number of baked pies, desserts, and extra.

Miller’s Connoisseur Apple Pie and Pennsylvania Dutch Shoofly Pie are native legends, whereas the Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake and Heat Chocolate Pecan Pie are decadent delights certain to fulfill any candy tooth. Tempo your self and save room for a slice (or two).

A slice of chocolate cheesecake with a chocolate cookie crust and chocolate whipped cream topping on a white plate.
A slice of chocolate cheesecake with a chocolate cookie crust and chocolate whipped cream topping on a white plate. The decadent chocolate mousse cheesecake at Miller’s Smorgasbord | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Practically a century after Anna Miller served her first rooster and waffle, her legacy of fabulous meals and gracious service continues to attract locals and guests alike. Making the pilgrimage to Miller’s Smorgasbord is a cherished Lancaster County custom that gives an genuine style of Amish tradition, the place everybody leaves stuffed and smiling.

Take a Scenic Drive By way of Amish Countryside 

A picturesque landscape of Lancaster County, showcasing vast golden wheat fields, a traditional white barn with a black roof, and a distant view of more farmland and silos under a clear blue sky.
A picturesque landscape of Lancaster County, showcasing vast golden wheat fields, a traditional white barn with a black roof, and a distant view of more farmland and silos under a clear blue sky. Expansive farmlands and iconic Amish barns in Lancaster County. | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

One of the memorable elements of our journey was merely driving round Amish Nation. As we meandered by the picturesque backroads of Lancaster, we have been handled to beautiful views of emerald fields, charming farms, and basic pink barns. The surroundings was dotted with quaint roadside outlets, the place we discovered distinctive handmade items and scrumptious native treats.

a large, speckled white and brown longhorn cow standing in a field with vibrant green grass and wildflowers. The cow’s prominent horns curve outward and slightly upward. In the background, there is a serene landscape of farmland with rows of crops under a soft pink and orange sky at sunset.
a large, speckled white and brown longhorn cow standing in a field with vibrant green grass and wildflowers. The cow’s prominent horns curve outward and slightly upward. In the background, there is a serene landscape of farmland with rows of crops under a soft pink and orange sky at sunset. A longhorn cow grazes at sundown in Amish Nation – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

We regularly encountered horse-drawn buggies, including to the timeless really feel of the panorama. The abundance of livestock was additionally a delight—longhorns, horses, sheep, and plenty of cute child animals greeted us at almost each flip. It was pure pleasure to see them grazing peacefully of their fields.

A close-up portrait of a baby brown Jersey cow. The cow's face fills most of the frame, with its large eyes, wet nose, and fuzzy ears clearly visible. The background shows a grassy field and some farm buildings in the distance under an overcast sky.
A close-up portrait of a baby brown Jersey cow. The cow's face fills most of the frame, with its large eyes, wet nose, and fuzzy ears clearly visible. The background shows a grassy field and some farm buildings in the distance under an overcast sky. A curious bay cow greets guests on an Amish farm in Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

As we handed by the native farms, we noticed Amish households working collectively to have a tendency their crops. It was heartwarming to see generations of farmers, even younger youngsters, all contributing to the labor with a way of goal and group. This straightforward but profound lifestyle was a fantastic reminder of the worth of exhausting work and togetherness.

See additionally

an aerial view of an Amish family engaged in farming activities. Two adults are tending to a horse-drawn plow, which moves through a field with distinct rows of soil. Several children sit on a flatbed attached to the plow, surrounded by fresh produce or plants. This scene reflects traditional farming methods without modern machinery, characteristic of Amish communities.
an aerial view of an Amish family engaged in farming activities. Two adults are tending to a horse-drawn plow, which moves through a field with distinct rows of soil. Several children sit on a flatbed attached to the plow, surrounded by fresh produce or plants. This scene reflects traditional farming methods without modern machinery, characteristic of Amish communities. An Amish household tending to their fields in Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Driving these backroads offers an intimate glimpse into the Amish lifestyle and an invite to decelerate and embrace the easy pleasures we so typically overlook. 

Go to the Charming Village of Hen-in-Hand

The Outdated Village Retailer in Hen-in-Hand, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Throughout your keep, undoubtedly plan to go to the charming village of Hen-in-Hand, only a 5 minute drive from AmishView Inn & Suites. Seemingly frozen in time, this little hamlet seems prefer it was plucked from a pastoral portray.

The story goes that in 1734, two highway surveyors debated whether or not to cease for the night time, noting “a hen within the hand is value two within the bush.” The title caught, and at present Hen-in-Hand retains the identical folksy enchantment that satisfied these colonial surveyors to remain.

Hen-in-Hand Farmers Market | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

On the coronary heart of city is the Hen-in-Hand Farmers Market, a sprawling bazaar full of recent produce, native crafts, smoked meats, jams and Amish staples. Nibble your approach by the stalls having fun with PA Dutch pretzels, funnel cake, fudge and infinite samples. The baked items are significantly divine – don’t miss the sticky buns or raspberry cream cheese pie.

Past the market, you’ll discover loads of quaint outlets, buggy trip excursions and eating places serving genuine fare. We beloved poking into the nation shops brimming with handcrafted objects, antiques and souvenirs. 

Modish at Hen-in-Hand | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Visiting Hen-in-Hand seems like stepping right into a Norman Rockwell scene, a nostalgic imaginative and prescient of small-town America that point forgot. Spending a day right here offers a fascinating glimpse into an easier period, brimming with genuine nation attraction and nostalgic enchantment.

Embrace Simplicity and Custom

A scenic countryside view at sunset. An Amish horse-drawn buggy is traveling on a road in the foreground. To the left, cows are grazing in a field. The sky is filled with dramatic orange and pink clouds, creating a colorful sunset backdrop. Modern houses are visible in the distance.
A scenic countryside view at sunset. An Amish horse-drawn buggy is traveling on a road in the foreground. To the left, cows are grazing in a field. The sky is filled with dramatic orange and pink clouds, creating a colorful sunset backdrop. Modern houses are visible in the distance. A horse-drawn buggy at sundown in Amish Nation – Lancaster, PA | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

Lancaster and Amish Nation provide an opportunity to flee fashionable life’s quick tempo and reconnect with less complicated residing. Right here, the main target is on religion, household, group, and residing harmoniously with the land. Each second, from shared meals to crafted items, feels intentional and significant.

Amish Nation isn’t just a quaint take a look at the previous; it’s a reminder to worth our roots, cherish communities, and find time for life’s easy pleasures.

When fashionable life turns into overwhelming, deal with your self to a peaceable getaway in Lancaster. Let this countryside rejuvenate you, and return residence with a newfound appreciation for simplicity.

Able to discover this distinctive nook of Pennsylvania?

➡ Ebook your keep at AmishView Inn & Suites and begin planning your journey now!

FAQ on the Amish

Amish farmers working in a green field, baling hay with horse-drawn equipment. Several horses are hitched to the machinery, while one farmer stacks hay bales on a trailer.
Amish farmers working in a green field, baling hay with horse-drawn equipment. Several horses are hitched to the machinery, while one farmer stacks hay bales on a trailer. Amish farmers bale hay utilizing horse-drawn tools | Photograph: Higher Dwelling

What’s the origin of the Amish? 

The Amish hint their roots again to the Anabaptist motion in 1525 Switzerland, which emphasised grownup baptism and separation of church and state. In 1693, a bunch led by Jakob Ammann broke off to type their very own sect, which grew to become often known as the Amish.

What language do the Amish converse? 

The Amish converse a number of languages. Pennsylvania German, often known as Pennsylvania Dutch, is the first language used at residence and in church. This can be a dialect of German with some English affect. Most Amish study English at college, making it their second language. A number of communities, particularly in Indiana, converse a type of Swiss German.

The place are Amish communities positioned? 

Amish communities exist in 31 U.S. states and several other Canadian provinces, with the biggest populations in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. Lancaster County, PA has each the oldest and largest Amish settlement. In complete, there are roughly 2,200 native church districts, every sometimes consisting of 20-40 households.

What’s the Amish inhabitants? 

As of 2023, specialists estimate there are roughly 308,000 Amish in North America, together with adults and kids. As a result of their communities are likely to have excessive beginning charges and low attrition, the Amish inhabitants is quickly rising, with numbers doubling about each 20 years.

Are there several types of Amish teams? 

Sure, there are lots of distinct affiliations inside the Amish, every with their very own particular practices, life and beliefs. Customs like gown, expertise use, occupations and even buggy kinds can fluctuate considerably between completely different Amish orders. When speaking about “the Amish” it’s necessary to acknowledge this range between subgroups.

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