Tour the Amish Village in Lancaster, PA

April 1, 2025

A visit to Amish Country near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, feels like stepping into a completely different world—one where life moves slowly and tradition is woven into daily routines. The Amish community in this region is one of the largest and most well-known in the country, drawing visitors curious about their way of life. If you're looking for a fantastic way to explore these traditions and cultures, don't miss The Amish Village.

The Amish Village offers an in-depth look at various Amish customs and ways of life, from horse-drawn buggies and one-room schoolhouses to homemade quilts and furniture. Walking through the Village, you’ll see how these communities rely on simple craftsmanship and strong community values. Exploring this unique attraction is just the start of things to do in Lancaster, though.

Take a scenic drive along the backroads, enjoying picturesque scenes of rolling farmland, covered bridges, and roadside stands selling homemade jams and whoopie pies. Ride the Strasburg Rail Road, the oldest continuously operating railroad in the country, and browse the Lancaster Central Market, one of the oldest farmers' markets in the U.S., where Amish vendors sell fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted products. Enjoy local theatres, shopping, museums, and plenty of time spent in the outdoors. Lancaster is truly an unforgettable destination.

Elevate your time in Amish Country further by staying at the Historic Smithton Inn. Our charming bed and breakfast near Lancaster is a beautifully restored 18th-century inn that offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with luxurious rooms, fireplaces, and a homemade breakfast that rivals anything you’ll find in town. Located just minutes from Lancaster’s top attractions, our Bed and Breakfast makes an ideal home base for your getaway. Book your stay today!

FArm and gardens at The Amish Village in Lancaster, PA
Editorial credit: LEE SNIDER PHOTO IMAGES / Shutterstock.com

Step Back in Time at The Amish Village

The Amish Village in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination for anyone curious about the Amish way of life. This immersive experience offers an authentic look at how the Amish live, work, and maintain traditions passed down for generations. Touring the Amish Village allows you to step inside an authentic Amish farmhouse, explore a historic one-room schoolhouse, and see firsthand how this tight-knit community functions without modern technology.

The historic buildings of The Amish Village are spread out over twelve acres. The farmhouse itself dates back to 1840, and it and other structures on the property were built by local Amish craftsmen. Other features of the property to explore include a windmill and water wheel that power operations on the farm, a barn filled with a variety of animals, including “local celebrity,” Molly the Mule, and the Smokehouse Market and Amish Village Store, where you'll find plenty of delicious Amish treats that you can take home with you. You can even ride in an Amish buggy to experience this iconic mode of transportation or visit the Blacksmith's shop for a live demonstration.

Visiting The Amish Village is wonderfully immersive and offers a rare opportunity to slow down and appreciate a simpler lifestyle that prioritizes family, faith, and craftsmanship. Beyond its fascinating glimpse into Amish culture, the Amish Village is an excellent starting point for exploring the Lancaster area. The Village offers three main Amish Country tours:

  1. The Premium Package Tour offers a little bit of everything, including a 25-minute narrated tour of the farmhouse, a self-guided tour of the grounds, including the schoolhouse and outbuildings, and a 90-minute narrated bus tour through Amish Country.
  2. If you want to travel a little more off the beaten path through Amish Country, take the Backroads Bus Tour. It includes a 90-minute bus tour of the Amish Countryside and at least one stop at a local Amish business. With only 14 other people on this tour, it's an intimate way to explore the area.
  3. The simplest tour at The Amish Village is the Amish Farmhouse and Village Tour, which offers a 25-minute guided tour of the farmhouse, a self-guided tour of the Village, and a look at the authentic Amish way of life.

Exterior of our Bed and Breakfast near Lancaster and The Amish Village

The Best Bed and Breakfast Near Lancaster

As you embrace the simple, graceful experience in Pennsylvania's Amish Country, we invite you to stay with us at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast near Lancaster. Our historic Inn offers a quiet respite to enjoy at the end of your day, in a setting that perfectly blends the area's historic charm with plenty of modern luxuries.

Our guest rooms and private cottages are thoughtfully designed, featuring handcrafted furniture, Amish quilts, and working fireplaces that create a cozy atmosphere. Modern touches like flat-screen Smart TVs, reliable Wi-Fi, and plush bedding ensure a comfortable stay. Some rooms even boast Jacuzzi tubs, providing an extra layer of relaxation.

Guests at the Historic Smithton Inn are treated to a range of amenities that enhance the overall experience. A farm-to-table breakfast is served each morning, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and offering a hearty start to the day. The Inn's on-site wine bar, Weathered Vineyards Ephrata, is open Friday and Saturday, allowing guests to enjoy local wines and delicious bites to eat without the added hassle of leaving the property in search of dinner.

Hospitality is at the heart of the Historic Smithton Inn experience. Our innkeepers are known for their warm and welcoming demeanors, offering personalized service that makes guests feel at home. Whether you're seeking recommendations for local attractions or need assistance with special requests, the staff is attentive and accommodating. The Historic Smithton Inn is the best choice for those seeking an authentic bed and breakfast near Lancaster. Book your stay today!