Ohio Amish Country is known for its beautiful landscapes, farm fields, and bucolic towns that dot the countryside. Winter is a fabulous time to retreat from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a leisurely visit.
A mild Winter Day is a perfect opportunity to explore the backroads of Holmes and surrounding counties to catch a glimpse of buggies buttoned up against the cold with families inside traveling a network of scenic routes. The 29-mile (and expanding) Holmes County Trail gives space to pedestrians, bicyclists, and Amish buggies. The trail connects three counties and has become a safe and beautiful way to explore the area. The Killbuck Watershed houses hiking trails and wildlife observation in preserved wetlands in southern Holmes County.
What better way to enjoy a cold and snowy day than hunkering down with a steaming hot beverage and a snack inside any of the unique lodging properties in the area? From tiny houses to treehouses, historic hotels to Inns with meeting and conference space, and any lodging you can think of, the area is never short on sweet treats or unforgettable overnight retreats. Family-style restaurants such as Der Dutchman, Berlin Farmstead, Mrs. Yoders, and Boyd & Wurthmann are staples for traditional foodies. Unique culinary experiences can be had at The Cider Press in downtown Millersburg, featuring seasonal menus and cider flights, East Main Kitchen in Baltic, offering an eclectic menu ranging from shrimp and grits to traditional baked chicken, Soloway-a new Ukrainian restaurant in the heart of Berlin, Rebecca’s Tea Room in Walnut Creek (try the quiche!), and Bags Sports Pub with locations in Sugarcreek and Millersburg. An award-winning brewery, eight wineries, historic cheese houses featuring multigenerational family recipes, and Coblentz Chocolates in Walnut Creek round out a delicious journey. Calories don’t count in Amish Country!
Every community in Holmes County has its own story to tell. Millersburg, the county seat, is known for its tique-antiques and boutiques, as well as the Victorian House Museum, which is always decorated beautifully. Berlin, Walnut Creek, and Sugarcreek are wonderful stops for a delicious meal and shopping. Baltic, Winesburg, Charm, and Mt. Hope are just a little off the beaten path but well worth the visit. To the west and south, Killbuck, Nashville, and Loudonville celebrate the area’s Appalachian Heritage. A stop at the Killbuck Valley Museum is perfect for fossil hunters, gem enthusiasts, or bird lovers. Visitors can stop at The Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center to learn about Amish culture. In the summer and fall, the German Culture Museum or Alpine Hills Museum also teaches the history of the area’s culture.
How about a show? The Ohio Star Theater, located on the Dutch Valley campus in Sugarcreek, has a variety of shows planned through the winter and spring. The Amish Country Theater in Berlin also has big plans for the Winter and Spring.
For more information, visit www.visitamishcountry.com or call 330-674-3975.
