Just outside the bustle of city life lies a region where time seems to move a little slower, and tradition runs deep. Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is at the heart of Amish Country, a place where horse-drawn buggies are an integral part of everyday life, and values such as family, craftsmanship, and simplicity continue to guide daily life. Hop on one of these Amish buggy rides, and you’ll quickly see that this region offers more than just beautiful farmland and rolling hills. It opens a window into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Visiting Pennsylvania’s Amish Country is one of the most deeply rooted and authentic experiences you’ll ever have. For a truly immersive first-hand experience, Amish buggy rides in Lancaster should be at the top of your list. These tours aren’t just about a scenic drive through the countryside; they’re also about experiencing the local culture. You’ll find yourself sitting beside an Amish or Mennonite guide, hearing first-hand about their lifestyle, beliefs, and history. Companies like Abe’s Buggy Rides offer intimate, guided experiences, passing by working farms where you’ll see laundry drying in the breeze, or stopping at a roadside stand run by a local family.
These moments bring visitors face-to-face with the heart of Amish Country. Of course, there are far more things to do in Lancaster County than ride in a buggy. It’s a great place to start, but you can dive deeper into the culture with other Lancaster Amish Tours that include stops at one-room schoolhouses, family-run bakeries, and working farms. Take in a show at the Amish Experience Theater or shop for handmade quilts, furniture, and crafts that reflect generations of skill. You’ll also find some of the best roadside produce stands and markets anywhere in Pennsylvania.
Don’t forget to do a little antiquing while you’re here and soak up the sights, sounds, and flavors of this charming and historic destination. Lancaster truly is an experience like no other. When it’s time to unwind, the countryside surrounding Lancaster offers a peaceful place to reflect on the day. Places like our Bed and Breakfast near Lancaster offer that perfect blend of elevated comfort and local charm. We’re close enough to Lancaster for you to enjoy everything this region has to offer, but far enough away to feel as though it’s a true getaway. Book now, and enjoy our welcoming hospitality and the character of a restored 18th-century inn.
What to Know About Amish Buggy Rides
If there’s one symbol of Pennsylvania Amish Country that transcends the rest, it’s a horse and buggy. Drive down any country road in the Lancaster area, and you’re bound to encounter one of these symbols of what, for most of us, is a bygone era. You can ride in one of these horse-driven buggies, but Amish buggy rides aren’t just an ordinary tourist activity. When you climb into a horse-drawn buggy and settle into the seat, you’ll find yourself transported back in time.
From there, you’ll ride past working farms, hand-built barns, and wide-open fields where horses graze and crops grow the old-fashioned way. It’s not just about what you see out the window. It’s about the stories shared by your guide, the gentle rhythm of the horse, and the feeling you’ll get without modern noise or distractions. It’s one of the most meaningful things to do in Lancaster PA.
To fully appreciate the experience, it helps to understand a bit about Amish customs. The Amish live without many modern conveniences, guided by faith and a strong sense of community. They value humility, modesty, and hard work. On many buggy tours, your guide will explain how Amish communities are structured, how their education system works, and why they avoid things like electricity and cars. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful, avoid taking close-up photos of people, and be open to learning about a lifestyle that may seem unfamiliar at first.
As you hop on these Amish buggy rides, get ready to see a side of Lancaster that goes far beyond markets and souvenir shops. We’ve listed a few of our favorite local tour operators to help guide you to the best Amish experiences in Lancaster.
The 4 Best Amish Buggy Rides, Lancaster PA
- Abe’s Amish Buggy Rides has been offering personalized Amish buggy rides since 1968. They’re located in Bird-in-Hand and offer everything from short 2-mile rides to longer, 5-mile countryside tours that stop at Amish farms. Drivers are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights into Amish life as you ride. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those looking for a flexible and friendly experience. They don’t take reservations, so these Amish tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Aaron & Jessica’s Amish Buggy Rides provide private and semi-private rides departing from the Plain and Fancy Farm in Bird-in-Hand. Their tours are known for including scenic farmland, Amish schools, and stops at working farms, and include the opportunity to tour a private Amish dairy farm. No reservations are required, but they are recommended.
- AAA Amish Buggy Rides offers guided Amish Country tours right from the heart of Intercourse, PA. They’re known for their knowledgeable guides, personalized rides, and options that include visits to local Amish businesses. It’s a great option if you’re already exploring downtown Intercourse. Their tours can include activities such as a ride across one of Lancaster County’s historic covered bridges and a visit to a local Amish dairy farm. We recommend booking in advance.
- In nearby Ronks, you’ll find A is for Amish Buggy Rides, featuring drivers that love to share local, insider knowledge about the Amish communities and traditions, while highlighting local landmarks and treating you to a unique and immersive Amish country experience.
The Perfect Place to Stay Near Lancaster, PA
After a day of exploring the best of Pennsylvania Dutch Country and enjoying one of these incredible Amish buggy rides, it’s time to return to your home away from home. When you stay somewhere special, like our historic Bed and Breakfast in Ephrata, it’s a stay that feels like the ideal continuation of your experience. Our Bed and Breakfast is a restored 18th-century building with a long history of welcoming travelers, and it offers a thoughtful mix of character and comfort.
Inside our Lancaster Bed and Breakfast, you’ll find fireplaces, exposed stone walls, and locally sourced breakfasts that match the spirit of the region. Far more than offering a simple place to rest your head, staying at our B&B will help you feel connected to the community, with modern touches that still respect the past. We offer a variety of guest rooms and vacation cottages, including pet-friendly accommodations. Each room is distinct, featuring a wonderful collection of handcrafted furniture and antiques, along with elevated amenities such as fireplaces, jetted tubs, and more.
Our Bed and Breakfast near Lancaster offers ample space to spread out and enjoy, complete with gorgeous gardens and grounds to unwind in at the end of the day. Don’t forget to stop in to our onsite tasting rooms, in partnership with Weathered Vineyards. With wine flights and delicious food offered, and live music Saturday nights, it’s “the” place to be! These things are reason enough to stay with us, but we’re also centrally located to all the things you want to do in Lancaster County.
We know the area well and can recommend personalized ideas for Amish country tours, cultural activities, and other meaningful things to do in Lancaster PA. Above all else, what you’ll find here is an experience that goes far beyond a simple sightseeing adventure. We admire and reflect the deep cultural influences of our region, setting the tone for a thoughtful and memorable getaway. There’s no better place to stay near Lancaster, PA. Book your stay today!