Welcome to the heart of Amish Country, where rolling hills, charming towns, and rich history await. Lancaster County is a treasure trove of must-see destinations that promise to delight its visitors. Whether you’re drawn to the Amish heritage, picturesque farmlands, or delicious home-cooked meals, Lancaster County offers a diverse array of experiences that are perfect for any traveler’s bucket list. Join us as we explore the top stops in this enchanting region, each offering a unique glimpse into the charm that makes Lancaster County a must-visit destination.

Explore Amish Country by Buggy

Climb aboard an authentic Amish buggy and immerse yourself in the quaint charm of Lancaster County. Your knowledgeable local guide will provide fascinating insights into Amish culture and traditions, offering a truly authentic and enriching experience.

There are a few options for buggy tour operators along Route 340, the main road through Lancaster County. We chose AAA Buggy Rides and thoroughly enjoyed our ride and dairy farm tour led by our guide, Levi, and our horses, Beauty and Ed.

AAA Buggy Rides offers three different tours that range from 35 minutes to 65 minutes long. Prices range from $22 to $36 for adults and $11 to $18 for children ages 3-12 (ages 2 and under are free).

• Country Buggy Ride (35 minutes) – A relaxing ride through the Amish countryside.
• Covered Bridge Ride (55 minutes) – Ride through an authentic wooden covered bridge dating back to the 1800s.
• Amish Farm Tour (65 minutes) – Stop halfway through your ride to tour a real Amish Dairy Farm.

AAA Buggy Rides is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. No reservations are needed.

Address: 3461 Old Philadelphia Pike, Ronks, PA

Aaron and Jessica’s Buggy Rides range from $18 to $35 for adults and $12 to $16 for children ages 3-12 (ages 2 and under are free). Private and specialty tours are more.

• Amish Cookie and Country Tour (30-35 minutes) – Ride through Amish communities and a farm where cookies and other refreshments are typically available for purchase.
• Amish Farm Tour (50-60 minutes) – Get off your carriage to tour the barn, and see farm equipment and various animals.
• Amish Journey Tour (Private Ride) – Ride through Amish farmland and visit local shops for crafts and baked goods. Reservations are recommended.
• Sunday Ride

Aaron and Jessica’s Buggy Rides is open Monday through Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sundays 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Address: 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand, PA

All of Abe’s Buggy Rides are private and available on a first-come, first-serve basis (except the two-and-a-half hour ride which is by reservation only). Prices range from $15 to $65 for adults and $7 to $30 for children ages 3-12 (ages 2 and under are free). A special two-and-a-half-hour ride is available for $350 for a group of four.

• 2 mile ride (20 minutes)
• 3 mile ride (30 minutes)
• 4.5 mile ride (45 minutes) – Pass an Amish one-room school house and a cattle field.
• 1 hour ride – Includes a stop at an Amish/Mennonite shop famous for its Shoofly Pies.
• 6.5 mile ride (1 hour and 15 minutes) – Pass a farm with a herd of camels used for their milk.
• Special two-and-a-half-hour ride – Reservations are required.

Abe’s Buggy Rides is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Address: 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand, PA

Tour a historic Amish homestead to learn about daily life, customs, and practices of the Amish community, complete with educational exhibits and interactive experiences.

The Amish Farm and House is open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM 7 days a week. Please note that Amish artisans on site will be closed on Sundays. Visit the farm with a day pass for $10 per adult and $7 per child (ages 5-11). Bus tours and other experiences are available for an additional cost.

• Self-Guided Farm Visit
• 30 Minute Guided Farmhouse Tour
• Bus Tours
• Sunset Dinner Tour
• Farm Animals
• Amish-Built Schoolhouse
• Artisan shops and demonstrations
• Scooter Run
• Corn Maze
• Kid’s Farm Zone
• BBQ Barn
• Goat Yoga Classes

Address: 2395 Covered Bridge Drive, Lancaster, PA

The Amish Village is open Sunday through Saturday. Hours vary by season, so please refer to their website for more information. Tours range from $13 to $35 per adult, and from $0 to $24 per child.

• An 1840 Amish Farmhouse and Village
• One-room Amish-built Schoolhouse
• Blacksmith Shop
• Amish Barn with Animals
• 90 Minute Bus Tour of the Amish countryside
• Smokehouse Market
• Windmill and Water Wheel

Address: 199 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA

Enjoy homemade goods and fresh produce sold at roadside stands, where you can purchase delicious treats like whoopie pies and vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables just harvested from the field. These stands, often unmanned and operating on an honor system, offer a glimpse into the Amish way of life. Leave your cash in the provided box and take pride in knowing you’re supporting local Amish families while savoring the authentic flavors of Lancaster County. The charm of these roadside gems lies not only in their offerings but also in the simplicity of the experience itself. *Pro tip: You’ll typically find these stands off the beaten path. Take a turn onto a back road to see what you can find!

Indulge in the bounty of Lancaster County at a farm-to-table restaurant where fresh, seasonal ingredients are transformed into delectable dishes, or enjoy traditional Amish comfort food anywhere from a small local cafe to an all-you-can-eat buffet.

• Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant and Smorgasbord – Choose an entree from their menu or dine on the all-you-can-eat buffet. The fruits, vegetables, meats, and poultry come from local farms, and most items are made from scratch, down to the condiments and dressings.
• John Wright Restaurant – Serving a menu made with fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers, John Wright’s has soups, sandwiches, rice bowls, and pizza. The restaurant also hosts a series of themed dinners throughout the year.
• Katie’s Kitchen – Amish-owned and operated, Katie’s serves homemade favorites such as omelets, sausage and gravy, and pancakes for breakfast, and soups, salads, sandwiches, and dinner platters for lunch and dinner. Grab a slice of homemade pie or a fresh apple dumpling for dessert.
• A Meal in an Amish Home – Some Lancaster County residents offer to host guests in their homes for an authentic, home-cooked Amish meal. These experiences are available by reservation only.
  • Authentic Tour and Meal With the Amish
  • Amish Meals at Home with Samuel and Ruth Lapp (610-593-1206)

Sight & Sound Theater brings beloved Bible stories to life with stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and talented actors. The use of cutting-edge technology, including 3D video imaging and pyrotechnics, creates an immersive Broadway-quality theatrical experience. Delight in the family-friendly atmosphere, where productions are designed to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages, making it a perfect outing for everyone.

Sight & Sound Theater prices vary by show, seat location, and day of the week. Tickets tend to sell out at least a few weeks in advance, so plan accordingly.

Address: 300 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA

Hunt for one-of-a-kind finds at the many antique shops and flea markets scattered throughout the county. Lancaster County is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. Whether you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind furniture piece for your home or a quirky vintage trinket, you’ll find that the area boasts a mind-boggling number of shops and markets to explore. Adamstown, located in the Northeast corner of Lancaster County, boasts over 300 antique shops, and is known as “Antique Capital, U.S.A.”

Indulge in a feast for the senses at Lancaster Central Market, overflowing with fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and local Pennsylvania Dutch specialties. Browse a vibrant selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs sourced from local farms and treat yourself to delicious pastries, bread, and other baked goods crafted by skilled local bakers. Explore stalls offering a wide array of spices, sauces, and marinades that can add a unique twist to your cooking. You’ll also find beautifully crafted items such as handmade soaps, candles, and pottery, perfect for gifts or as unique additions to your home, all made by local artisans. If you’re feeling hungry, satisfy your cravings with a diverse selection of ready-to-eat foods, including international cuisine, gourmet sandwiches, and freshly made smoothies and juices.

Lancaster Central Market is open Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Address: 23 North Market Street, Lancaster, PA

Embark on an adventure and explore the numerous covered bridges scattered throughout Lancaster County. In the 1800s, the Amish were renowned for constructing hundreds of covered bridges across the state of Pennsylvania and twenty-eight historical covered bridges remain across Lancaster County today. The structures were originally built to protect bridges from harsh weather and extend their lifespan. Whether you’re a history buff or simply enjoy a picturesque drive, Lancaster County’s covered bridges are not to be missed.

The Strasburg Rail Road offers a unique chance to travel back in time aboard a historic steam train. Breathe in the fresh country air and listen to the rhythmic chug of the locomotive as you wind your way through stunning Amish farms and rolling hills. Aside from a 45 minute scenic tour, the Strasburg Rail Road also offers specialty rides such as a Murder Mystery ride, Bonnie and Clyde Experience, and a Wine and Cheese Ride.

Tickets for the Strasburg Railroad start at $24.

Address: 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA