in Ohio Amish Country
There is no better way to celebrate the last days of summer than with a trip to Ohio Amish Country. Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Ohio Amish Country provides visitors with breathtaking vistas and a retreat into a simpler pace. Roads curve through fields that stretch beyond sight, where you’ll discover exciting new destinations, one-of-a-kind experiences, and renowned cultural attractions.
Immerse yourself in the Amish culture with a visit to Behalt, the Amish Mennonite Heritage Center, located in Berlin, Ohio, where you can learn about Amish heritage and explore an onsite barn and Amish schoolhouse. Every journey to the area is an invitation to experience the unique culture and enjoy a world where life slows down and the rhythm of the day is marked by the sounds of the clip-clop of horse and buggies.
Enjoy field-to-table fresh produce and goods, a staple of the area, from u-pick adventures at Moreland Fruit Farm to locally grown produce at Harvey’s Farm Market to the 75 rolling acres at Hillcrest Orchard boasting 22 apple varieties, 12 peach varieties, fresh sweet apple cider, and a million-dollar view of the Mud Valley. Bring along a cooler, as Ohio Amish Country is home to some of the best cheese houses and butcher shops that will keep you well stocked into the fall season.
A visit to Ohio Amish Country provides a unique opportunity to meet the makers. Stop in at Coblentz Leather, a third-generation family-owned business, to experience the beauty and talent of American-made leather craftsmanship. A peek through the workshop viewing window provides a glimpse of the leather artistry that goes into each handbag, wallet, purse, and custom-made belt. Nearby, you will find David Warther Carvings & Gift Shop, where you can experience a fascinating exhibit of intricate carvings and meet David Warther, the carver, as he works daily in his on-site workshop. Don’t miss the opportunity to travel the National Scenic Amish Country Byway to Holmes County Pottery in Big Prairie, Ohio. The drive will take you through the beautiful rolling hills of Ohio Amish Country, dotted with Amish homes and roadside stands, providing a truly authentic experience. Cary Hulin, owner and Potter, can be found most days working on-site where he mixes his own clay and uses a wood-fired kiln, which is an extremely rare form of firing in the modern age.
Ohio Amish Country is not meant to be a rushed destination. Sip, savor, and stay awhile. Home to several wineries, you can sip local vintages and enjoy a hearty Amish-inspired meal, then cozy up around a campfire. There are endless options for lodging from scenic campsites to cabins and cottages, charming bed and breakfast inns, and full amenity hotels where modern comfort meets countryside tranquility.
Give yourself plenty of time to explore and don’t be afraid to travel the backroads. The area offers 190 miles of National Scenic Byway, providing the perfect excuse to discover the most authentic experiences along the road less traveled.
