Venturing into Pennsylvania’s Amish Country, you’ll find a world that seems frozen in time – horse-drawn buggies clip-clopping down country roads, farmers working the fields with teams of horses, and families traveling by scooter or on foot. But amidst this traditional landscape, you can also discover some surprisingly unique Amish-run businesses that offer a fascinating glimpse into their culture and craftsmanship. Here are 7 unusual Amish stores in Pennsylvania that are well worth a visit:
1. The Amish Hat Shop, 2857B Lincoln Highway E. (U.S. Rt. 30), Ronks, PA 17572
As you step into this small, unassuming shop in the heart of Lancaster County, you’re immediately transported to another era. Rows of handcrafted straw hats and bonnets line the walls, each one meticulously woven using techniques passed down through generations. The friendly Amish proprietor greets you warmly, eager to share his craft.
You’ll find an impressive array of traditional Amish headwear here – from the iconic wide-brimmed straw hats worn by Amish men to the delicate prayer caps donned by women and girls. But what makes this shop truly unique is the proprietor’s willingness to create custom designs. With advance notice, he can weave personalized hats incorporating your choice of ribbons, flowers, or other embellishments.
As you browse, the shopkeeper explains the cultural significance of different hat styles. You learn that the width of a man’s hat brim or the pleats in a woman’s bonnet can indicate which specific Amish group they belong to. It’s a fascinating lesson in how clothing and accessories reflect identity and tradition.
Before you leave, be sure to watch the proprietor demonstrate his hat-weaving technique using antique equipment. The rhythmic motions and his deft handiwork are mesmerizing. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the time and skill that goes into each handmade piece.
2. The Amish Clockmaker
Tucked away on a quiet country lane, you’ll find a small workshop that seems to exist outside of time itself. This is the domain of one of the last Amish clockmakers in the region, carrying on a tradition that stretches back centuries.
As you enter the dimly lit space, the gentle ticking of dozens of clocks creates a soothing ambiance. The wizened craftsman greets you from his workbench, surrounded by tools and clock parts. His weathered hands move with practiced precision as he demonstrates how to assemble the intricate gears and mechanisms.
What sets this shop apart is the clockmaker’s dedication to creating timepieces using only traditional, non-electric methods. You won’t find any battery-operated clocks here. Instead, each piece is powered by weights, springs, or even falling marbles in the case of the mesmerizing marble clocks.
The clockmaker takes pride in sourcing local materials whenever possible. Many of his wooden clock cases are crafted from trees felled right on his property. He’ll happily recount the history of each unique piece of wood as he shows you the finished clocks.
Don’t miss the opportunity to commission a custom clock during your visit. Whether you prefer a classic grandfather clock or a whimsical cuckoo design, the clockmaker can bring your vision to life using time-honored techniques. It’s a chance to own a functional piece of art that will be treasured for generations.
3. The Amish Toy Emporium, 2220 Horseshoe Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601
Prepare for a healthy dose of nostalgia as you step into this charming toy shop filled with handcrafted wooden playthings. In an age of plastic and electronics, it’s refreshing to see toys made the old-fashioned way – with loving care and attention to detail.
The shelves are lined with beautifully crafted dollhouses, rocking horses, train sets, and more. Each item is made by local Amish craftsmen using sustainably harvested wood. You won’t find any batteries or blinking lights here, just good old-fashioned fun that sparks the imagination.
What makes this shop stand out is its focus on interactive, educational toys. Many pieces are designed to teach children about farm life, nature, or practical skills. You’ll find miniature barns complete with tiny animals, bird identification puzzles, and even child-sized tools for budding carpenters.
The friendly shopkeeper is always happy to demonstrate how the toys work. Watch in delight as he sets up an elaborate marble run or shows off the smooth action of a hand-carved Jacob’s Ladder. It’s impossible not to be charmed by the simple yet ingenious designs.
Before you leave, be sure to check out the make-your-own-toy station. Here, children (or the young at heart) can assemble their own wooden cars, planes, or animals under the guidance of skilled craftsmen. It’s a unique hands-on experience that lets you take home a personalized souvenir.
4. The Amish Candle Maker, 3551 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534
As you approach this quaint shop, your senses are immediately awakened by the warm, inviting scents wafting through the air. Inside, you’ll discover a cornucopia of handmade candles in every shape, size, and fragrance imaginable.
What sets this candle maker apart is his commitment to using all-natural, locally-sourced ingredients. The wax comes from bees kept on nearby Amish farms, while many of the scents are derived from herbs and flowers grown in the shop’s own gardens. You won’t find any artificial dyes or petroleum-based products here.
The proprietor is eager to share his craft, offering demonstrations throughout the day. You can watch as he carefully pours molten wax into molds or hand-dips tapered candles using traditional methods. The level of skill and patience required is truly impressive.
Don’t miss the shop’s signature “storytelling candles.” These unique creations are designed to burn in stages, releasing different scents that correspond to elements of a tale. As the candle burns, you’re taken on an olfactory journey through a forest, a bakery, or even the changing seasons.
Before you leave, try your hand at candle making yourself. The shop offers workshops where you can create your own scented candles or even carve intricate designs into pillar candles. It’s a fun, hands-on way to take home a personalized piece of Amish craftsmanship.
5. The Amish Leather Works
The Amish Leather Works 225 Forest Hill Road, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
Stepping into this workshop is like traveling back in time to a medieval guild. The rich smell of leather permeates the air as skilled craftsmen work diligently at their benches, transforming raw hides into beautiful and functional pieces.
What makes this shop unique is its dedication to preserving traditional leatherworking techniques. You won’t find any modern machinery here – just simple hand tools and a wealth of generational knowledge. The craftsmen take pride in using only the highest quality, ethically-sourced leather.
As you browse the shop, you’ll find an impressive array of handcrafted goods. From sturdy work boots and intricate horse tack to delicate wallets and bound journals, the level of craftsmanship is evident in every stitch. The proprietor is always happy to explain the different techniques used for each item.
Don’t miss the opportunity to have a custom piece made during your visit. Whether you need a perfectly fitted belt or a one-of-a-kind saddle, the skilled leatherworkers can bring your vision to life. They’ll even let you choose the exact piece of leather to be used, ensuring a truly personalized item.
Before you leave, be sure to try your hand at some basic leatherworking. The shop offers short workshops where you can stamp designs into a leather keychain or bracelet. It’s a fun way to gain appreciation for the skill involved in this time-honored craft.
6. The Amish Herbalist
The Amish Herbalist, 246 N Ronks Rd, Ronks, PA 17572
Tucked away down a winding country road, you’ll discover a treasure trove of natural remedies and folk wisdom. This small shop, run by a knowledgeable Amish herbalist, is dedicated to preserving traditional healing practices passed down through generations.
As you enter, you’re greeted by the earthy aroma of dried herbs hanging from the rafters. Shelves are lined with jars of tinctures, salves, and teas, each carefully labeled with its intended use. The herbalist herself is a wealth of information, happy to explain the properties of each plant and how it can be used to promote health and wellness.
What sets this shop apart is its focus on locally foraged and cultivated herbs. Many of the plants used in the remedies are grown in the herbalist’s own gardens or ethically wildcrafted from the surrounding countryside. You won’t find any imported or synthetic ingredients here.
Don’t miss the opportunity to create your own custom herbal blend. Whether you’re looking for a soothing tea to aid sleep or a salve to soothe sore muscles, the herbalist can help you choose the perfect combination of herbs for your needs. She’ll even walk you through the process of making your own tinctures or infused oils.
Before you leave, take a stroll through the shop’s medicinal herb garden. Here, you can see many of the plants used in the remedies growing in their natural state. The herbalist offers guided tours, sharing fascinating tidbits about each plant’s history and traditional uses.
7. The Amish Recycled Art Gallery
The Amish Recycled Art Gallery, 3526 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534
Prepare to have your preconceptions challenged as you step into this truly unique Amish-run business. Here, traditional craftsmanship meets eco-conscious creativity in a dazzling display of art made entirely from reclaimed and repurposed materials.
As you wander through the gallery, you’ll be amazed by the ingenuity on display. Old barn wood is transformed into intricate wall sculptures, discarded metal parts become whimsical animal figures, and even broken dishes find new life as colorful mosaics. Each piece tells a story of renewal and resourcefulness.
What makes this gallery stand out is its commitment to sustainability within the context of Amish values. The artists view their work as a way to practice good stewardship of the earth’s resources while still creating beauty. They’re happy to explain how their faith informs their artistic choices.
Don’t miss the interactive exhibits scattered throughout the gallery. You can try your hand at weaving with recycled fabric strips or assembling a small sculpture from a bin of assorted salvaged objects. It’s a fun way to engage with the artistic process and gain appreciation for the skill involved.
Before you leave, check out the gallery’s workshop schedule. They offer classes where you can learn to create your own recycled art pieces under the guidance of skilled Amish artisans. It’s a unique opportunity to tap into your creativity while learning about Amish culture and environmental stewardship.
As you explore these seven unusual Amish stores in Pennsylvania, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions and innovative spirit of this often-misunderstood community. Each shop offers a unique window into Amish culture, showcasing their commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and preserving traditional ways of life. Whether you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind souvenir or simply a memorable experience, these businesses are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Citations:
[1] https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1019&context=amishstudies
[2] https://www.historicsmithtoninn.com/blog/15-best-amish-shops-in-lancaster-pa
[3] http://www.welcome-to-lancaster-county.com/amish-stores.html
[4] https://www.travelawaits.com/2478141/best-amish-markets-in-lancaster-pennsylvania/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amish
[6] https://www.dutchcrafters.com/blog/unusual-amish-communities/
[7] https://www.discoverlancaster.com/amish/lifestyle/
[8] https://www.amishviewinn.com/blog/7-weirdly-named-amish-and-pa-dutch-foods-youll-love/