The Amish Village
March 9, 2023
Most tourists visit Lancaster Pennsylvania for its large Amish community. But not all that long ago, the Amish were living pleasantly under the radar of most Americans. It wasn’t until the “Plain and Fancy” played on Broadway in 1955 that the idea of coming to Lancaster to see the Amish was “a thing”. The show is about a NYC couple who come to Bird-in-Hand to sell a piece of land to a farmer, only to find themselves involved in the day-to-day lives of the local villagers (including an Amish wedding!).
While the musical didn’t bring home any Tony’s, it DID ignite interest in Lancaster County’s Amish, and tourism in our area has grown steadily over the years since.
Today it’s infinitely easier than it was in 1955 to meet the Amish, learn about their culture and immerse yourself in the special sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Amish Country. Thanks to the Amish Village and their wonderful staff, visitors can enjoy a combination of on-site and bus tours to gain a greater understanding of this fascinating group of Americans who have lived in Lancaster County since the early 1700s.
This Blog is all about the Amish Village
1 – About
The centerpiece of the Amish Village is an Amish Farmhouse dating back to 1840. The Amish Village is privately owned by a local family who have a passion for creating authentic Amish encounters. Visitors gain an understanding of Amish culture and traditions through a combination of tours and storytelling. One of the things that makes the Amish Village special is the staff. Visitors benefit from a team that includes Amish and ex-Amish friends & neighbors, which ensures authenticity in every aspect of the Amish Village.
2 – Location
199 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks | Website
Phone: (717) 687-8511
The Amish Village is located in the center of Lancaster County’s ‘tourism hub’. Set along a country road that’s dotted with farms, small shops and local businesses, you’ll find a large white barn with green trim. The lovely grounds are just begging to be toured, which is exactly what we recommend you do! Just pull into the large parking lot and follow signs to the main office where you can purchase tickets and begin your journey.
3 - Farmhouse Tour
The Farmhouse Tour at the Amish Village is the foundation of your Amish Experience and Education. An Amish family’s life centers around the home. It’s where they eat, sleep, play and worship. As with “the English” (the Amish refer to non-Amish people as “English”), you can learn a lot a family from their home. How is it decorated, what does their clothing look like, what’s hanging on the walls and what will you find on their bookshelves. Walking through an authentic Amish home you’ll be immersed in Amish life and culture in a way you can’t accomplish by reading a book or watching a video.
4 - Tour the Grounds & Outbuildings
A number of “outbuildings” can be found on the 12 acre Amish Village property. In addition to the farmhouse, visitors can explore a barn with farm animals, a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, a windmill & waterwheel, and a Smokehouse / Market. Rounding out the buildings is the Amish Village Store where you can purchase souvenirs to remember your visit to the Amish Village.
The Amish you see as you drive the backroads of Lancaster County live very much the same as they did 300 years ago, and this collection of buildings (and the stories behind them) will give you a sense of everyday Amish life, from childhood through old age.
5 - Backroads Bus Tour
Once you’ve gained some insight and perspective on Amish life and culture, it’s time to hit the road and experience it first hand. The Amish Village’s 90 minute bus tour is a real treat. You’ll drive in air conditioned comfort and listen to your guide go into even greater detail about Amish life, history and beliefs as you drive through the rolling hills and farmlands the Amish call home. You’ll visit at least one Amish family home or Amish-owned business along the way.
6 - 9 - Restaurants Nearby
If you’ve worked up an appetite during your Amish Village Tour there are a number of terrific restaurants nearby you can try. This collection (in order) includes a café / sandwich shop, Amish-owned restaurant, full restaurant & craft brewery with tasty food.
- Agape Cafe | 366 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks | Website
- Katie’s Kitchen | 200 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks | Website
- Fireside Tavern | 1500 Historic Dr, Strasburg | Website
- Tavern by Springhouse Brewing | 8 E Main St, Strasburg | Website
10 - 13 - Shopping Nearby
- Kitchen Kettle Village | 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA | Website
- Old Candle Barn | 3551 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse | Website
- Bird in Hand Bake Shop | 542 Gibbons Road, Bird-in-Hand | Website
- Log Cabin Quilt Shop | 2679 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand | Website
14 – 18 - Other Attractions Nearby
- Sight & Sound | 300 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks | Website
- Ed’s Buggy Rides | 23 Hartman Bride Road, Ronks | Website
- Strasburg Railroad | 301 Gap Rd, Ronks | Website
- Strasburg Scooter Tours | 246 N Decatur St, Strasburg | Website
- Village Greens Mini Golf | 1444 Village Rd, Strasburg | Website
19 – Stay at the Historic Smithton Inn Bed and Breakfast
We hope you consider the Historic Smithton Inn for your overnight accommodations!! The Smithton Inn is a Colonial Tavern and Stage Coach Stop dating back to 1763. Experience Lancaster's rich history Lancaster first hand, while enjoying all the modern comforts and conveniences you expect from luxury accommodations.
Choose a King Suite or a Queen Guest Room. All have private baths and working fireplaces. A full breakfast is included with your stay. Read the Google Reviews to learn what past guests hae to
CHECK AVAILABILITY and book your getaway today.
This Blog is all about the Amish Village
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