Lancaster , United States

Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour

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(501 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Many visitors to Lancaster seek out meaningful personal contact with the Amish community. Imagine visiting three Amish properties where our longstanding relationships allow you to become their guests during your stay. This exclusive tour is limited to 14 guests, and provides the rare opportunity to meet and talk to various Amish where they live and work. The three stops: Visit an Amish farm at milking time, go behind-the-scenes with an Amish craftsman, and then sit and chat with an Amish family right in their home.

Available options

Visit-in-Person Tour

VIP Tour: Amish Visit-In-Person Tour

What's included

Local guide

Transportation between locations

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1: Amish Farm

When we arrive at the farm, we enter the barn to learn about the milking process firsthand. You may be surprised to learn that the Amish do not milk cows by hand. You will also discover how milk is kept cold in the bulk tank with “Amish electricity.” Other aspects of farm life may also be included.

Stop 2: Amish “Cottage Industry”

With the price and scarcity of farmland, many Amish have started their own small enterprises, making everything from gazebos and furniture to farm equipment and quilts. These “home businesses” have become the subject of books and articles emphasizing the balance these entrepreneurs achieve between work and family. Our visit may be to a harness or carriage maker, basket weaver, greenhouse, leather or wood worker, among others. An actual demonstration is normally a part of this fascinating stop.

Stop 3: Amish Home Visit

To conclude our evening, we travel scenic backroads to a distant farm in the countryside. As we step inside the house, we find that friendly conversation awaits as we sit, chat, and visit the way the Amish do, talking informally without TVs, IPhones or computers. It comes as no surprise that strangers soon become friends.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

29 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

472 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Transportation by 14-passenger bus is provided between locations of the tour

No children under the age of 6 allowed on this tour

Please dress respectfully

We ask that no photographs be taken of our Amish hosts

Please check in at the theater box office, east parking lot, at least 15 minutes before your tour

No pets allowed.

Meeting point

Look for our mini bus right in front of the Amish Experience Theater.

Important notes

This ticket must be exchanged for a direct entry ticket at the starting point of the attraction.

About Lancaster

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a charming city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to Amish country. It offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking both cultural and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Central Market

One of the oldest continuously operating farmers' markets in the U.S., Central Market offers a variety of local produce, Amish goods, and delicious food vendors.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary by vendor

Lancaster County Amish Country

Experience the unique lifestyle of the Amish community, known for their simple living, horse-drawn buggies, and traditional crafts.

Cultural Half-day to full-day Free to explore, prices vary for tours and shops

Lancaster Arts Hotel

A unique boutique hotel featuring contemporary art and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.

Architecture Varies Expensive ($$$)

Hersheypark

A popular amusement park featuring thrilling rides, water attractions, and Hershey's chocolate-themed experiences.

Entertainment Full-day Expensive ($$$)

Lancaster County Park

A beautiful park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shoofly Pie

A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert made with molasses and a crumbly streusel topping.

Dessert Contains gluten and sugar

Scrapple

A pork-based dish made with cornmeal and flour, often served sliced and fried for breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and gluten

Chicken Pot Pie

A hearty and comforting dish made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a flaky crust.

Main Course Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in Lancaster County Park Biking on the Lancaster County Central Railroad Trail Zip-lining at Adventure Link Picnicking in Lancaster County Park Shopping at Central Market Dining at farm-to-table restaurants Visiting Amish Country Exploring historic sites in downtown Lancaster

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals. It's the best time to explore the city's parks, markets, and nearby Amish country.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Pennsylvania Dutch (among the Amish community)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5:00

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lancaster is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's always important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
• Avoid isolated areas at night

Getting there

By air

Harrisburg International Airport • 30 miles (48 km)

By train

Lancaster Amtrak Station

By bus

Lancaster Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The RRTA bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Lancaster. Buses are clean and punctual.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Lancaster Gay Street Lancaster County Amish Country

Day trips

Hershey, PA

15 miles (24 km) • Half-day to full-day

Hershey is a charming town known for its chocolate-themed attractions, including Hersheypark and Hershey's Chocolate World. The town also has a rich history and offers a variety of museums and historic sites.

Strasburg, PA

10 miles (16 km) • Half-day

Strasburg is a historic town offering a glimpse into the Amish community's lifestyle. The town is home to the Strasburg Rail Road, a historic steam train that offers scenic rides through the countryside.

Gettsburg, PA

35 miles (56 km) • Full-day

Gettsburg is a historic town known for its role in the American Civil War, particularly the Battle of Gettsburg. The town offers a variety of museums, historic sites, and guided tours.

Festivals

Lancaster Jazz Festival • June Lancaster County Farmers' Market • Year-round (Tuesdays and Saturdays) Christmas & Holiday Market • November - December

Pro tips

Visit Central Market on Tuesdays or Saturdays for the best selection of fresh produce and local goods
Explore the city's vibrant arts scene by visiting local galleries, theaters, and museums
Take a buggy ride through Amish Country for an authentic and unique experience
Try local specialties, such as shoofly pie, scrapple, and Hershey's chocolate treats
Support local businesses and farmers' markets to experience the region's farm-to-table dining scene