Amish Country, located just west of Canton and Massillon in Northeastern Ohio, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the state. With its gentle rolling hills that were carved out by Ice Age glaciers, it's a far cry from the flat, endless prairies that many people associate with Ohio. As someone who was initially surprised by the area's stunning beauty, I can confidently say that a trip to Amish Country is a must-see for anyone exploring Ohio.  

According to some reliable sources (aka, my cousin who was born and raised in the area), Ohio has a larger population of Amish than Pennsylvania. This may sound surprising because often when people want to go to Amish country, they journey to Pennsylvania (PA). Well, PA was just better at marketing their Amish then Ohio was, I guess. Or maybe the Ohioans just did not want a billion and a half tourists clogging up their beautiful rural roads and making them all kitschy and commercialized. Regardless of the reason, the cool thing is that you can actually go to Ohio Amish Country and have a more authentic experience than if you go to PA, just sayin’.  

Keep reading for 7 tips on how to make the most of your visit to Amish Country Ohio!

Visit Lehman’s Hardware Store in Kidron

If you're looking for a unique shopping experience in Amish Country, be sure to visit Lehman's Hardware Store in Kidron. This store specializes in products that are designed to be used without electricity, perfect for the Amish way of life. You'll find a wide selection of old-fashioned items that are brand new, such as wood-burning kitchen stoves, kerosene lamps, and schoolhouse and farmhouse bells. Walking through the aisles of Lehman's is like taking a step back in time. I even bought a 60-lb schoolhouse bell to take home with me! Just make sure to check your airline's weight limits before packing this heavy souvenir in your luggage.

Explore Home Shops in Amish Country

One of the best parts of visiting Amish Country is discovering the charming home businesses that line the roads. Look out for handmade signs advertising fresh eggs, garden produce, handwoven baskets, and other unique items like bent hickory wood rocking chairs. The Amish are happy to welcome visitors to their homes, but be sure to motor slowly and respectfully as you approach their properties. The driveway may not be oiled or paved, so take care not to kick up too much dust. Keep an eye out for a safe spot to park your car that won't disrupt their daily operations. Once you arrive, the Amish will likely bring out their products to show you on their front porch. If you find something large, like a rocking chair, that you can't resist, they'll even ship it straight to your home. Don't miss out on these unique and authentic experiences in Amish Country.

Discover the Charm of the German Accents in Amish Country

One of the most fascinating things about visiting Amish Country is hearing the German accents spoken by the Amish people. As descendants of German immigrants, the Amish have maintained their unique culture, language, and traditions for over two centuries. In fact, they still speak German in their homes, schools, and communities, which is why you'll hear their distinctive accents when you speak to them. They even have a special name for non-Amish people: "Englishers." It's truly impressive how the Amish have preserved their heritage in the United States for so long. Don't miss the chance to hear their charming accents and learn about their way of life during your trip to Ohio's Scenic Amish Country.

Indulge in Mouth-watering Amish Cuisine: Homemade Meals & Delicious Pies

Growing up, I was lucky to have delicious homemade meals every day. My dad was a meat cutter, and my mom was a fantastic cook and baker, making homemade bread almost every other day. In Amish Country, you'll find food just like what I grew up eating - fresh and flavorful, with high-quality meats and homemade bread. And the best part? The prices are more than fair, with a decent plate of roast beef, mashed potatoes, salad, bread, and pie costing around $10. Even during tougher economic times, you can still indulge in this mouth-watering Amish cuisine without breaking the bank.

Let's talk about the pie - it's a must-try! With a buttery and flaky crust, and unique fillings like grape or chocolate peanut butter, you won't find a slice of Amish pie you don't like. Don't forget to leave room for dessert and indulge in the local ice cream, some of the best I've had anywhere in the world. Trust me, you can do without an arm and a leg, but you can't do without this Amish cooking!

Be Respectful

Remember, the Amish are a religious group who have very specific beliefs. Be respectful to them and honor the things that make them unique. For instance, they don't appreciate having their pictures taken due to religious reasons. So, just be a decent human and don’t attempt to photograph them. Remember, the Amish are not actors dressed up in costumes in a living history museum like Williamsburg, VA. Rather, they are people living a simple, pious life, and you are visiting their domain, so DO NOT treat them like a tourist attraction!

Experience Amish Country at its Peak: Why Fall is the Best Time to Visit

Fall is the perfect time to explore Ohio's scenic Amish Country, especially during the peak of the harvest season. The farmland in Ohio is stunning, with rolling hills covered in lush green crops and rich soil that resembles a dark chocolate candy bar. The farmers here take pride in their work and it shows in the quality of their produce. From sweet peppers the size of your head to juicy stone fruit, crunchy cabbages, and vine-ripened tomatoes, the options are endless. If you love farmers markets, you'll be in heaven in Amish Country. Look out for little roadside stands selling fresh produce and take the opportunity to try some delicious and locally grown food. Do yourself a favor and stop, buy, and dine. I promise you’ll be glad you did!

Take It Slow: Tips for Driving in Ohio's Amish Country

When you're exploring Ohio's scenic Amish Country, it's important to take it slow. The rolling hills and one-lane roads mean you need to be extra careful when driving, especially since the Amish still travel by horse and buggy. Speeding down the roads puts you and the Amish families at risk, and you don't want to find yourself in a dangerous situation. So, obey the speed limits and be cautious on the roads. It's better to take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery anyway!

FAQ: Exploring Ohio's Scenic Amish Country

Amish Country is located just west of Canton and Massillon in Northeastern Ohio. It features gentle rolling hills that were shaped by Ice Age glaciers, providing a beautiful and unique landscape.

Contrary to common perception, Ohio has a larger population of Amish than Pennsylvania. While Pennsylvania's Amish attractions are well-known, Ohio's Amish Country offers a more authentic experience due to its less commercialized and tourist-focused environment.

• Lehman's Hardware Store: Visit Lehman's Hardware Store in Kidron for a shopping experience featuring products designed for Amish living without electricity.
• Explore Home Shops: Discover charming home businesses along the roads offering handmade items and farm-fresh produce. Approach Amish homes respectfully and considerately.
• Experience German Accents: Listen to the distinctive German accents spoken by the Amish, reflecting their unique culture and heritage.
• Indulge in Amish Cuisine: Savor mouth-watering homemade meals and delicious pies, including unique fillings like grape or chocolate peanut butter.

Show respect for the Amish way of life and religious beliefs. Refrain from taking photos of the Amish, as they have religious reasons for avoiding photography. Treat them with consideration and sensitivity, as they are not tourist attractions but people living a simple, pious life.

Fall, especially during the peak harvest season, is the ideal time to explore Ohio's scenic Amish Country. The landscape is breathtaking, and the farmers' markets offer a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce.

When driving through Amish Country, be cautious and obey speed limits. The rolling hills and narrow roads, shared with horse and buggies, require careful navigation to ensure safety for everyone on the road.

Approach the Amish Country experience with an open mind and a desire to appreciate the simplicity and authenticity of their lifestyle. Take the time to learn and understand their unique culture, heritage, and values for a meaningful visit.