In the rolling hills of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster County offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional world of the Amish. This pastoral region, with its patchwork farmland, covered bridges and horse-drawn buggies, moves at a pace that feels worlds away from Downtown Lancaster. It’s a place where a simpler way of life still thrives.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Philadelphia, a romantic retreat, or a family trip steeped in American history and culture, Amish Country in Lancaster, PA delivers something rare: an experience that truly slows you down and fills you up at the same time.
On this trip, we had the chance to immerse ourselves in Amish culture, history, and legendary comfort food. What we discovered was an unexpectedly rich and rewarding experience, full of warm hospitality, delicious home-cooking, and a profound sense of peace.

Amish farmers, young and old, work together in Lancaster County fields | Photo: Better LivingFrom the moment we arrived, it was clear Lancaster moves at a different pace. The landscape is a patchwork of neatly tended farms, whitewashed barns and quaint shops. Along winding country roads, you’ll spot Amish families traveling by horse and buggy, women in bonnets working in gardens, and children riding kick scooters.
This bucolic scenery alone makes Lancaster worth the trip. But to truly appreciate Amish Country, we found it’s the people, experiences and flavors you encounter that leave the most lasting impression.
Things To Do In Amish Country, Lancaster, PA
Stay at AmishView Inn & Suites: The Best Home Base in Amish Country

The view of a working Amish farm from AmishView Inn & Suites | Photo: Better LivingIf you want to experience Amish Country Lancaster, PA at its absolute finest, where you stay matters enormously. AmishView Inn & Suites sits on a AAA scenic byway, overlooking working Amish farms on every side. This top-rated Lancaster hotel is the rare property that doesn’t just sit near the attraction. It is the attraction.
AmishView Inn & Suites at a Glance
Location: Bird-in-Hand, Lancaster County, PA
Best For: Couples, families, romantic getaways, Amish Country immersion
Standout Room: Grand King Suite with 10-ft farmland-view windows, clawfoot tub and kitchenette
Breakfast: Complimentary hot breakfast buffet daily
Amenities: Indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, adults-only building
On-Site: Smokehouse BBQ & Brews, Plain and Fancy Country Store
Minutes From: Bird-in-Hand village, Miller’s Smorgasbord, Quilt Shop at Miller’s
Reservations: amishviewinn.com
We stayed in the adults-only building and were completely spoiled by our Grand King Suite. The room features soaring 10-foot windows framing idyllic farmland views, a kitchenette, a generous living area and a supremely comfortable king bed.
When they say “AmishView,” they mean it. From sunrise to sunset, we watched local Amish families farming and riding buggies right from our room, with no driving required.

Elegance meets comfort in the Grand King room at AmishView Inn & Suites | Photo: Better LivingThe bathroom is equally impressive. Each Grand King Suite features a Victoria + Albert clawfoot tub positioned right in front of its own TV. There’s also a large shower with frameless glass doors, top-quality fixtures, a separate water closet, Tarocco shampoo and soaps, a lighted mirror, and a hair dryer. It’s a proper pampering experience.

The luxurious bathroom in the Grand King room at AmishView Inn & Suites | Photo: Better LivingEvery morning, we looked forward to the famous AmishView hot breakfast buffet, served in the sun-soaked Great Room. This complimentary spread is widely praised as one of Lancaster’s best. Fluffy waffles, savory sausages, farm-fresh eggs and made-to-order omelets fueled our days beautifully. Sipping coffee while horse-drawn buggies rolled past in the distance? That’s the kind of morning that stays with you.

A plate from the legendary AmishView breakfast buffet | Photo: Better LivingDon’t overlook the hotel’s indoor pool, whirlpool and well-equipped fitness center either. Wind down each evening with a soothing swim or soak while the sun sets over the farmland.

The large whirlpool in the indoor pool area of AmishView Inn & Suites | Photo: Better LivingFrom check-in to check-out, AmishView Inn & Suites was the perfect home base for our Amish Country adventure. Its location puts you within minutes of every major attraction. The on-site dining and shopping (more on that below) means you could spend an entire day without ever leaving the property. We can’t wait to return.
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Savor Lancaster’s Best BBQ at Smokehouse BBQ and Brews

Smokehouse BBQ and Brews at AmishView Inn & Suites – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingOne of Lancaster’s biggest draws is the phenomenal Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. Luckily, one of the area’s best restaurants sits right next door to AmishView Inn & Suites.

The Smokehouse Stacker | Photo: Better LivingSmokehouse BBQ and Brews serves up incredible barbecue and comfort food classics in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The scent of slow-smoked meats hits you the moment you walk through the door and honestly, it’s hard to leave after that.
Everything on the menu is made from scratch using local ingredients. The succulent Burnt Brisket Ends basted in White Horse sauce are exceptional, and the mammoth Smokehouse Stacker piled high with beef, pulled pork, slaw and fixings is a full meal in one glorious tower. Add honey-butter slathered corn muffins and decadent mac n’ cheese and you’ve got a carnivore’s dream come true.

The Smokehouse Rib Combo | Photo: Better LivingThe Smokehouse Rib Combo with a half-rack and your choice of smoked meat is the best of both worlds. We went with the pull-apart tender pulled pork and were gleefully covered in barbecue sauce by the last savory bite. No regrets.
Don’t miss their locally crafted brews, spirits and wines either. After a meal here, you’ll understand completely why Smokehouse is a destination in its own right for barbecue lovers visiting Lancaster County.
Shop for Handcrafted Amish Gifts at Plain and Fancy Country Store

Plain and Fancy Country Store – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingBefore you leave Smokehouse, step into the adjacent Plain and Fancy Country Store. This spacious shop carries a carefully curated collection of handcrafted Amish clothing, toys, crafts, decor and foods that showcase the community’s incredible artisanship.
You’ll also find a wonderful spread of Pennsylvania Dutch sweets and snacks. Think whoopie pies, shoofly pie, chow chow and jams made from Amish family recipes. It’s the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts and tasty souvenirs you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Explore The Quilt Shop at Miller’s: Amish Quilting at Its Finest

The Quilt Shop at Miller’s – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingAmish Country Lancaster, PA is legendary for its stunningly intricate handmade quilts. At The Quilt Shop at Miller’s, you can witness the tradition of Amish quilting in its full glory.
Established in 1998, this specialized store boasts over 1,000 gorgeous hand-stitched quilts, wall-hangings, pillows and textiles made by local Amish and Mennonite artisans. Displayed in a bright 3,500 sq ft showroom, the craftsmanship on display is absolutely jaw-dropping.
Vibrant patterns burst from each quilt in a kaleidoscope of color and detail. The stitching is impossibly precise, with thousands of tiny uniform stitches creating a supple yet substantial texture. Some quilts take up to 1,000 hours to complete. You can feel that dedication the moment you touch one.
Whether you’re a serious collector or simply an admirer of handmade beauty, The Quilt Shop at Miller’s is your chance to own a one-of-a-kind heirloom to cherish for generations.
Stock Up on Amish Country Flavors at Locally Made Food Shop

Locally Made Food Shop – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingNo visit to Lancaster is complete without stocking up on Pennsylvania Dutch foods and baked goods. The best place to do it is Locally Made Food Shop, located right next to The Quilt Shop.
This delightful store features a huge selection of Amish-made sweet and savory delicacies prepared using traditional recipes and local ingredients. Shelves are lined with jars of chow chow, pepper jam, bacon dressing, fruit butters and pickled everything, alongside fresh-baked shoofly pies, gooey whoopie pies, sticky buns and signature breads.
It’s an absolute must-stop for food lovers. Leave extra room in your vehicle. You’ll need it.
Dine at Miller’s Smorgasbord: Serving Amish Feasts for Nearly a Century

A hearty and satisfying plate from Miller’s Smorgasbord – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingNo visit to Lancaster County is complete without a Pennsylvania Dutch smorgasbord. For almost 100 years, Miller’s Smorgasbord has been the go-to destination for experiencing this beloved tradition.
Miller’s story began in 1929 when Anna Miller started serving her famous chicken and waffles to hungry truckers while her husband repaired their rigs. Word of her down-home cooking spread fast. Anna’s humble diner grew into the Lancaster institution it is today, now in its fourth generation of family ownership.

You’ll find over 100 delicious items at Miller’s Smorgasbord – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingToday, the restaurant serves a massive smorgasbord menu featuring over 100 items, all made from scratch using Anna’s time-honored recipes and fresh local ingredients. The warm hospitality and commitment to homestyle cooking have never changed.
Arrive hungry and wear your stretchy pants. Endless rows of Pennsylvania Dutch comfort foods stretch as far as the eye can see: succulent slow-roasted beef, crispy fried chicken, savory chicken pot pie with homemade noodles, creamy baked cabbage and so much more.

Miller’s authentic, Amish chicken pot pie | Photo: Better LivingTry Anna’s original chicken and waffles without question. It’s a true Amish Country classic: tender, juicy fried chicken atop a golden malted waffle, a heavenly pairing of sweet and savory. The Swedish meatballs, beef burgundy and endless peel-and-eat shrimp are equally hard to skip.
Then comes the dessert bar. Miller’s Gourmet Apple Pie and Pennsylvania Dutch Shoofly Pie are local legends. The Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake and Warm Chocolate Pecan Pie are the kind of indulgent finishes that make you glad you saved room.

The decadent chocolate mousse cheesecake at Miller’s Smorgasbord | Photo: Better LivingNearly a century after Anna Miller served her first chicken and waffle, her legacy of fabulous food and gracious service continues to draw visitors from across the country. A meal at Miller’s Smorgasbord is one of the most satisfying, most distinctly Lancaster experiences you can have.
Take a Scenic Drive Through Amish Countryside

Expansive farmlands and iconic Amish barns in Lancaster County | Photo: Better LivingOne of the most memorable parts of any trip to Amish Country Lancaster PA is simply getting in the car and driving. As we wandered through the backroads, we were treated to views of emerald fields, charming farms and classic red barns. Quaint roadside stands appeared around nearly every bend.

A longhorn cow grazes at sunset in Amish Country – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingWe frequently spotted horse-drawn buggies, which added to the timeless feel of the landscape. The farm animals were a constant delight. Longhorns, horses, sheep and adorable baby animals greeted us at nearly every turn.

A curious baby cow greets visitors on an Amish farm in Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingAs we passed the local farms, we observed Amish families working together to tend their crops. Even young children were contributing with a clear sense of purpose and community. It was a beautiful reminder of the value of hard work and togetherness.

An Amish family tending to their fields in Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better Living🌿 Tips for Your Scenic Drive
- Slow down around horse-drawn buggies and give them plenty of space. It’s essential for safety, not just courtesy.
- Many roadside farm stands are cash-only. Bring smaller bills.
- Pull over whenever something catches your eye. Some of the best finds happen spontaneously.
Driving these backroads provides an intimate glimpse into the Amish way of life and an open invitation to embrace the simple pleasures we so often overlook.
Visit the Charming Village of Bird-in-Hand

The Old Village Store in Bird-in-Hand, PA | Photo: Better LivingDuring your stay, plan to visit the charming village of Bird-in-Hand, just a 5-minute drive from AmishView Inn & Suites. Seemingly frozen in time, this little hamlet looks like it was plucked from a pastoral painting.
The story goes that in 1734, two road surveyors debated whether to stop for the night, noting that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. The name stuck, and today Bird-in-Hand retains the same folksy appeal that convinced those colonial surveyors to stay put.

Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market | Photo: Better LivingAt the heart of town is the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, a sprawling bazaar packed with fresh produce, local crafts, smoked meats, jams and Amish staples. Nibble your way through the stalls with PA Dutch pretzels, funnel cake, fudge and endless samples. The baked goods are particularly wonderful. Don’t miss the sticky buns or raspberry cream cheese pie.
Beyond the market, you’ll find quaint shops, buggy ride tours and restaurants serving up true Lancaster County fare.

Modish at Bird-in-Hand | Photo: Better LivingVisiting Bird-in-Hand feels like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting. Spending an afternoon here gives you a captivating glimpse into a simpler era, brimming with charm and nostalgia in equal measure.
Best Time To Visit Amish Country in Lancaster, PA
Lancaster County is a year-round destination, but each season brings something different to the table.
See also


🌸 Spring (April – May)
Fields come alive, roads are quiet and farmers markets are filled with early-season finds. Perfect for scenic drives.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Peak season. Everything is open, farm stands overflow and daylight hours are long. Book AmishView well in advance.
🍂 Fall (September – October)
Our personal favorite. Rolling hills turn gold and crimson, harvest season peaks and the whole region glows amber.
❄️ Winter (November – March)
Quiet and wonderfully peaceful. Miller’s, the Quilt Shop and AmishView stay open. Off-season rates make it great value.
Planning Your Trip: Practical Tips for Visiting Lancaster PA Amish Country
Getting there. Lancaster County sits about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia, 2.5 hours from New York City and roughly 2 hours from Washington, D.C. It’s a natural stop on any mid-Atlantic road trip and one of the most rewarding day trips from Philadelphia you can make.
Where to stay. AmishView Inn & Suites in Bird-in-Hand is the top choice. You’re surrounded by working Amish farms and within minutes of every major attraction. The complimentary breakfast alone is worth booking for.
Bring cash. Many Amish farms, roadside stands and smaller shops are cash-only. Stop at an ATM before heading into the country roads.
Buggy etiquette. Slow down significantly when approaching horse-drawn buggies. Pass only when it’s clearly safe and give horses as wide a berth as possible. Loud music and sudden acceleration can startle animals.
What to bring home. Quilts from the Quilt Shop at Miller’s, Amish pantry staples from Locally Made Food Shop and handcrafted goods from Plain and Fancy Country Store are the most meaningful purchases. Think heirlooms, not tchotchkes.
Extend your trip. Lancaster pairs beautifully with Gettysburg, just 45 minutes away. Check out our Southeast Pennsylvania foodie road trip guide for even more stops worth making.
Embrace Simplicity and Tradition

A horse-drawn buggy at sunset in Amish Country – Lancaster, PA | Photo: Better LivingLancaster and Amish Country offer something increasingly hard to find: a genuine chance to escape the speed of modern life and reconnect with what’s essential. Here, the focus is on faith, family, community and living in harmony with the land. Every moment, from a shared meal at Miller’s to a handstitched quilt from a local artisan, feels intentional and meaningful.
Amish Country is not just a quaint look at the past. It’s a reminder to value our roots, cherish community and make time for life’s simple pleasures.
When modern life gets overwhelming, treat yourself to a peaceful getaway in Lancaster County. You’ll return home refreshed, well-fed and with a renewed appreciation for the things that truly matter.
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FAQ: Amish Country Lancaster, PA
Is Lancaster PA Amish Country worth visiting?
Yes, without hesitation. Lancaster County is one of the most distinctive travel experiences in the entire Northeast. It offers genuine cultural immersion, outstanding comfort food, beautiful countryside and remarkable handmade goods, all within a short drive of Philadelphia, New York City and Washington, D.C. First-time visitors are almost always surprised by how much there is to do and how deeply relaxing the experience turns out to be.
How many days do you need in Amish Country Lancaster PA?
Two days is the sweet spot for a first visit. That’s enough time to stay overnight at AmishView Inn & Suites, dine at Miller’s Smorgasbord, explore the Quilt Shop and Locally Made Food Shop, wander through Bird-in-Hand and take a scenic country drive. Three days lets you slow down even further and truly absorb the pace of the place.
Is Amish Country Lancaster PA good for families?
It’s an excellent family destination. Kids are fascinated by the farms, animals, horse-drawn buggies and hands-on cultural experiences. Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, the roadside farm stands and Smokehouse BBQ all work well for families. AmishView Inn & Suites offers family-friendly rooms in addition to the adults-only suite building.
What is Lancaster PA Amish Country known for?
Lancaster County is home to the oldest and largest Amish settlement in the United States. It’s known for Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, especially at Miller’s Smorgasbord, handmade Amish quilts, working horse-drawn farms, scenic backroad drives and a step-back-in-time atmosphere unlike anywhere else in America.
What is the origin of the Amish?
The Amish trace their roots to the Anabaptist movement in 1525 Switzerland, which emphasized adult baptism and the separation of church and state. In 1693, a group led by Jakob Ammann broke away to form their own sect, which became known as the Amish.
What language do the Amish speak?
The Amish speak several languages. Pennsylvania German, also known as Pennsylvania Dutch, is the primary language used at home and in church. It is a dialect of German with some English influence. Most Amish learn English at school, making it their second language. A few communities, particularly in Indiana, speak a form of Swiss German.
Where are Amish communities located?
Amish communities exist in 31 U.S. states and several Canadian provinces, with the largest populations in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. Lancaster County, PA has both the oldest and largest Amish settlement in the country. There are approximately 2,200 local church districts, each typically consisting of 20 to 40 families.
What is the Amish population?
As of 2023, experts estimate there are roughly 308,000 Amish in North America, including adults and children. Because their communities tend to have high birth rates and low attrition, the Amish population is growing rapidly, with numbers doubling approximately every 20 years.
Are there different types of Amish groups?
Yes. There are many distinct affiliations within the Amish, each with their own specific practices, lifestyles and beliefs. Customs like dress, technology use, occupations and even buggy styles can vary significantly between different Amish orders. When talking about “the Amish” it’s important to recognize the real diversity between subgroups.

Amish farmers bale hay using horse-drawn equipment | Photo: Better LivingPlanning a broader Pennsylvania getaway? Explore our guides to Downtown Lancaster PA, Peddler’s Village, things to do in Gettysburg and weekend getaways from Philadelphia.
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