You’ve heard about Amish markets, but have you ever experienced one for yourself? Get ready to embark on a journey through some of the most popular Amish markets across the United States. These bustling hubs of commerce and culture offer a unique glimpse into the Amish way of life, while providing visitors with an array of handcrafted goods, fresh produce, and mouthwatering treats.
Lancaster Central Market – Lancaster, Pennsylvania
As you step into the historic Lancaster Central Market, you’re immediately transported to a world where time seems to slow down. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, this market has been a cornerstone of the community since 1730, making it the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in the United States[1].
The moment you enter, your senses are overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of over 60 vendors packed into the beautiful 19th-century red brick building. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread, pungent cheeses, and sweet fruits. You’ll find yourself weaving through narrow aisles, brushing shoulders with locals and tourists alike as you explore the diverse offerings.
At one stand, you’ll encounter an Amish farmer selling vibrant, just-picked produce. The crisp apples, juicy tomatoes, and leafy greens are a testament to the fertile soil of Lancaster County. As you chat with the vendor, you’ll learn about their sustainable farming practices and the importance of supporting local agriculture.
A few steps away, the enticing smell of cinnamon and sugar leads you to a bakery stand. Here, you’ll find an array of traditional Amish treats like shoofly pie, whoopie pies, and apple dumplings. The friendly Amish baker behind the counter offers you a sample of their famous sticky buns – still warm from the oven – and you can’t resist buying a box to take home.
As you continue your exploration, you’ll come across stands selling handcrafted furniture, intricate quilts, and homemade jams and jellies. Each item tells a story of skill, tradition, and dedication passed down through generations.
Before you leave, make sure to stop by one of the market’s iconic ice cream stands. Treat yourself to a scoop of homemade ice cream, perhaps flavored with local fruits or traditional Amish recipes[1].
Lancaster Central Market is open year-round on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. As you exit, you’ll find yourself already planning your next visit, eager to discover more of the market’s hidden treasures.
Bluegate Farm Homegrown Produce & Homestyle Bakery – Ronks, Pennsylvania
Your next stop takes you just a short drive from Lancaster to the charming town of Ronks. Here, nestled among rolling hills and picturesque farmland, you’ll find Bluegate Farm Homegrown Produce & Homestyle Bakery[1].
As you pull into the gravel parking lot, you’re greeted by the sight of a traditional Amish farm. The simplicity of the white-washed buildings and the absence of power lines remind you that you’re entering a world where things are done differently.
Walking up to the market, you’re immediately drawn to the colorful display of fresh produce arranged on wooden tables outside. The vibrant reds of ripe tomatoes, the deep purples of eggplants, and the golden hues of squash create a feast for the eyes. You can’t help but admire the care and attention that goes into growing each piece of fruit and vegetable.
Inside the market, the sweet aroma of baked goods envelops you. Your eyes are drawn to shelves lined with homemade jams, jellies, and preserves. Each jar is a work of art, filled with vibrant fruits and labeled with handwritten tags. You pick up a jar of strawberry rhubarb jam, imagining how delicious it would taste on your morning toast.
As you make your way to the bakery section, you’re overwhelmed by the variety of treats on offer. Whoopie pies in various flavors, from classic chocolate to pumpkin, tempt you from one side. On the other, you see stacks of freshly baked bread – the crusty exterior promising a soft, warm interior.
But it’s the pies that really catch your attention. Apple, cherry, peach, and the intriguing shoofly pie – a molasses-based dessert unique to Pennsylvania Dutch country. The friendly Amish woman behind the counter explains that each pie is made from scratch using recipes passed down through generations.
Before you leave, don’t forget to try their homemade root beer. This isn’t your typical store-bought soda – it’s a rich, complex beverage with notes of vanilla and wintergreen that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Amish craftsmanship.
Bluegate Farm is open from the first week of April through the end of December, Monday through Saturday[1]. As you load your car with fresh produce, baked goods, and preserves, you feel a sense of connection to the land and the people who work it.
Amish Country Coop Farmers Market – Bertha, Minnesota
Your journey now takes you to the heartland of America, where you’ll discover the Amish Country Coop Farmers Market in Bertha, Minnesota[1]. This market offers a unique glimpse into the Amish community of Todd County, showcasing the work of over 40 Amish families.
As you arrive, you’re struck by the simplicity of the surroundings. The market is housed in a large, unassuming building, but don’t let its exterior fool you – inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of Amish-made goods.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by the rich smell of freshly cut wood. To your right, you see an impressive display of handcrafted furniture. Rocking chairs, dining tables, and intricately designed cabinets showcase the exceptional woodworking skills of the Amish craftsmen. You run your hand along the smooth surface of a cherry wood dresser, marveling at the attention to detail and quality of workmanship.
Moving deeper into the market, you come across a section dedicated to handmade quilts. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns tell stories of tradition and creativity. Each quilt is a work of art, representing hours of painstaking work. You can’t help but admire the skill and patience that goes into creating these beautiful pieces.
As you continue your exploration, you find yourself in the food section. Here, you’ll discover an array of homemade jams, jellies, and pickles. The shelves are lined with jars of every size and color, each containing a different delicious treat. You pick up a jar of dill pickles, imagining the satisfying crunch they’ll add to your next sandwich.
Don’t miss the baked goods section, where you’ll find an assortment of breads, pies, and cookies. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla fills the air, making your mouth water. You decide to try a loaf of their famous Amish friendship bread – a sweet, cinnamon-flavored bread that’s perfect for sharing.
Before you leave, make sure to check out the seasonal produce section. Depending on the time of year, you might find crisp apples, juicy strawberries, or plump tomatoes. The Amish farmers take pride in their organic growing methods, resulting in fruits and vegetables bursting with flavor.
The Amish Country Coop Farmers Market is open year-round, Monday through Saturday[1]. As you leave with your arms full of handcrafted goods and fresh produce, you feel a deep appreciation for the Amish way of life and their commitment to quality and tradition.
Yoder’s Country Market – Blanch, North Carolina
Your Amish market tour now takes you south to Yoder’s Country Market in Blanch, North Carolina[1]. This market offers a taste of Amish country in the heart of the South, providing a unique blend of traditional Amish goods and Southern hospitality. 90 County Home Rd Blanch, NC 27212
As you pull into the parking lot, you’re greeted by the sight of a charming country store. The wooden building, complete with a covered porch, looks like it could have been plucked straight from a Norman Rockwell painting.
Stepping inside, you’re immediately struck by the variety of goods on offer. To your left, you see shelves stocked with an impressive array of jarred foods. Pickles, relishes, jams, and jellies in every flavor imaginable line the shelves. You pick up a jar of peach preserves, thinking how perfect it would be on a warm biscuit.
Moving further into the store, you come across the bakery section. The smell of fresh bread and sweet pastries fills the air. You watch as an Amish baker pulls a tray of golden-brown cinnamon rolls from the oven, the icing melting enticingly over the top. Unable to resist, you purchase one to enjoy as you continue your exploration.
The deli counter catches your eye next. Here, you’ll find a selection of meats and cheeses, many made using traditional Amish methods. The friendly staff offers you a sample of their homemade bologna – a far cry from the mass-produced variety you’re used to. The rich, savory flavor convinces you to take some home.
As you wander through the aisles, you’ll discover a wide range of baking supplies, bulk foods, and candy. From flour and sugar to homemade noodles and chocolate-covered pretzels, Yoder’s seems to have everything you could need for your pantry.
Don’t miss the small gift section near the front of the store. Here, you’ll find handcrafted items like candles, soaps, and small wooden toys. These make perfect souvenirs or gifts for friends back home.
Before you leave, make sure to check out their selection of seasonal items. Depending on the time of year, you might find pumpkins and gourds in the fall, or fresh flowers and plants in the spring.
Yoder’s Country Market is open year-round, Monday through Saturday, with slightly shorter hours during the winter months[1]. As you load your purchases into your car, you feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you’re taking home a piece of Amish tradition and quality.
Millport Dairy – New York City, New York
For the final stop on your Amish market tour, you find yourself in an unexpected location – the bustling streets of New York City. Tucked away on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, you’ll discover Millport Dairy, the first authentic Amish-owned brick-and-mortar store in the five boroughs[2].
As you approach the store, located between Broadway and 97th and 98th Streets, you might wonder if you’ve taken a wrong turn. The sight of an Amish market seems incongruous with the surrounding urban landscape. But as you step inside, you’re immediately transported to the heart of Amish country.
The store is run by John Stoltzfoos, an Amish farmer who makes a grueling six-hour daily commute from his family’s farm in Lititz, Pennsylvania[2]. As you browse the store, you might catch a glimpse of John, easily recognizable with his impressive beard, suspenders, and broad-brimmed hat.
The first thing you notice is the incredible variety of fresh produce. Vibrant vegetables and fruits, all sourced from Stoltzfoos’s farm, fill baskets and crates. The quality is evident – these aren’t your average supermarket offerings. You pick up a basket of strawberries, marveling at their deep red color and sweet aroma.
Moving to the dairy section, you’ll find an array of cheeses and butter that Millport Farm is renowned for. From sharp Colby to creamy parmesan and unique horseradish cheese, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t forget to pick up some of their famous butter – customers swear it’s the best they’ve ever tasted.
The meat counter offers a selection of ethically raised, farm-fresh meats. You might find smoked pork chops, kielbasa, and even chorizo – a testament to the fact that, as Stoltzfoos says with a grin, “the Amish enjoy a little spice, too”[2].
No Amish market would be complete without baked goods, and Millport Dairy doesn’t disappoint. Shelves are lined with homemade treats like oatmeal bars, ginger cookies, and zucchini bread. The shoofly pies and whoopie pies are particularly popular among city dwellers looking for an authentic taste of Amish country.
Before you leave, make sure to check out their selection of preserves and pickled goods. From tangy pickled okra to sweet strawberry jam, these jars are filled with the flavors of Lancaster County.
Millport Dairy is typically open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., but it’s worth noting that hours can be unpredictable[2]. As you exit the store, arms laden with farm-fresh goods, you can’t help but marvel at this little piece of Amish country thriving in the heart of the big city.
As your tour of Amish markets comes to an end, you reflect on the incredible variety and quality of goods you’ve encountered. From the historic Lancaster Central Market to the unexpected urban oasis of Millport Dairy, each market offered a unique glimpse into the Amish way of life. You’ve tasted incredible foods, admired beautiful craftsmanship, and gained a deeper appreciation for the traditions and values of the Amish community. These markets aren’t just places to shop – they’re gateways to a different world, one that values simplicity, quality, and connection to the land. As you plan your next trip, you know that Amish markets will be high on your list of must-visit destinations.
Citations:
[1] https://www.wideopencountry.com/best-amish-markets/
[2] https://nypost.com/2024/05/18/us-news/amish-farmer-commutes-each-day-to-bring-products-to-his-nyc-store/
[3] https://www.jerseysbest.com/community/taste-homemade-goods-from-the-heart-of-amish-country-at-n-j-markets/
[4] https://abundantmontana.com/amt-lister/amish-farm-to-market/
[5] https://www.dutchcrafters.com/blog/everything-you-want-to-know-about-amish-businesses/
