While many tourists focus on popular attractions in Ohio’s Amish Country, there are several hidden gems that often go unnoticed. Here are some lesser-known experiences and places to explore:
Sweetwater Farm in Sugarcreek, Ohio
This family-run farm is open from May through November and offers fresh, organic produce, berries, hanging baskets, and quality mulch. It’s a favorite among locals but often overlooked by tourists.
Sweetwater Farm in Sugarcreek, Ohio, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a genuine taste of rural Amish Country life. This family-run farm, open from May through November, provides tourists with an authentic agricultural experience away from the more commercialized attractions in the area.
The farm is renowned for its fresh, organic produce and vibrant seasonal offerings. Visitors can explore the fields and pick their own berries when in season, providing a hands-on experience that connects them directly to the land. The farm also offers a variety of hanging baskets, perfect for those looking to bring a piece of Amish Country’s natural beauty home with them.
For tourists interested in sustainable and traditional farming practices, Sweetwater Farm is an excellent destination. The farm’s commitment to organic methods aligns with the Amish values of simplicity and harmony with nature. While not as well-known as some other attractions in Sugarcreek, Sweetwater Farm provides a more intimate and authentic experience of Amish Country agriculture, making it a worthwhile stop for those seeking to explore beyond the typical tourist routes.
The Depot at Middlefield Historical Society: This 1930s ice cream parlor, located in an old B&O Railroad depot, offers old-fashioned sodas and sundaes. It’s a great place to enjoy a treat while learning about local history.
The Depot at Middlefield Historical Society offers visitors a charming journey back in time to the 1930s. Located at 14979 South State Avenue in Middlefield, Ohio, this unique attraction is housed in a restored Baltimore & Ohio Railroad depot from 1874, providing a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich railway history.
One of the main draws of The Depot is its old-fashioned ice cream parlor, which recreates the ambiance of a bygone era. Tourists can indulge in nostalgic treats like fountain drinks, ice cream sodas, and sundaes, all served in an authentic 1930s setting. This experience allows visitors to not only satisfy their sweet tooth but also immerse themselves in the atmosphere of early 20th-century small-town America].
Beyond its culinary offerings, The Depot serves as an educational hub for those interested in local history. As part of the Middlefield Historical Society, the venue is dedicated to preservation, restoration, and education about the area’s past. Tourists can explore exhibits and artifacts that showcase the community’s heritage, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts and families looking to combine learning with leisure. The picturesque setting of the old depot, especially during evening sunsets, also provides excellent photo opportunities for visitors.
Raber’s Shoe and Saddlery: This hidden gem in Ohio’s Amish Country specializes in handcrafted leather goods and traditional Amish footwear.
Raber’s Shoe and Saddlery is a unique destination that combines the craftsmanship of traditional shoemaking with the artistry of saddlery. Located in the heart of Amish country, this family-owned business has been serving both locals and tourists for generations. Visitors can witness firsthand the meticulous process of creating custom-made shoes and leather goods, all crafted using time-honored techniques passed down through the years.
The shop offers an impressive array of handcrafted products, from sturdy work boots and comfortable everyday shoes to intricately designed saddles and horse tack. Tourists can marvel at the skill and attention to detail that goes into each item, observing as skilled artisans cut, shape, and stitch high-quality leather into functional and beautiful pieces. The store’s rustic atmosphere and the rhythmic sound of hammering and stitching transport visitors to a bygone era of craftsmanship.
Beyond shopping, Raber’s Shoe and Saddlery provides an educational experience for those interested in traditional trades. Visitors can learn about the history of shoemaking and saddlery in the region, as well as the importance of these crafts in Amish culture. The friendly staff is always eager to share their knowledge and passion for their work, making it an engaging stop for tourists seeking an authentic glimpse into local traditions and artisanal skills.
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7674dPVJ_30
End of the Commons General Store: This historic store offers a nostalgic shopping experience with a wide variety of old-fashioned goods and treats.
End of the Commons General Store, located in the heart of Amish country in Mesopotamia, Ohio, is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an authentic glimpse into America’s past. Established in 1840, it holds the distinction of being Ohio’s oldest operating general store, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and shopping experience[1][3]. The store’s charming small-town atmosphere is enhanced by the sight of horse-drawn buggies coming and going throughout the day, creating a picturesque scene that transports visitors to a simpler time[2].
Inside, the store is a treasure trove of over 1,000 bulk food products, hard-to-find housewares, and kitchen gadgets that harken back to bygone eras. Tourists can indulge their sweet tooth with an impressive selection of homemade fudge, hand-dipped ice cream, and over 150 varieties of old-fashioned soda and penny candy[3]. A particular highlight is the store’s famous Amish-made fry pies – handheld mini pies filled with delicious fruit fillings and sealed with a sweet vanilla glaze, offering a true taste of local Amish culinary tradition[3].
Beyond its retail offerings, End of the Commons General Store serves as a cultural hub, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Amish country life. The store stocks a wide array of Amish-made products, including homemade jams, sweets, flours, and fresh produce, allowing tourists to take home a piece of this unique culture[1]. For those looking to extend their visit, the Commons Cafe offers lunch and dinner options, featuring local Amish country foods. With its rich history, diverse product range, and central location just 40 minutes east of Cleveland, End of the Commons General Store is an ideal starting point for tourists exploring the fascinating world of Ohio’s Amish country[3][5].
Citations:
[1] https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g50642-d2345364-Reviews-End_of_the_Commons_General_Store-Mesopotamia_Ohio.html
[2] https://www.yelp.com/biz/end-of-the-commons-general-store-mesopotamia
[3] https://endofthecommons.com
[4] https://www.destinationgeauga.com/members/end-of-the-commons-general-store/
[5] https://ohio.org/things-to-do/destinations/end-of-the-commons-general-store
Amish Country Riding Stables: For those looking to explore the scenic countryside, horseback riding tours provide a unique perspective on the landscape.
Amish Country Riding Stables offers visitors a unique and immersive way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Ohio’s Holmes County. Located in the heart of Amish Country, this attraction provides guided horseback trail rides through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region. Guests can enjoy the serene countryside from a new perspective, atop well-trained horses, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The stables specialize in small, personalized tours, accommodating groups of two to five riders at a time. This intimate approach ensures that each guest receives individual attention and a tailored experience, regardless of their riding expertise. Both experienced equestrians and first-time riders are welcome, making it an accessible activity for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to connect with nature and experience Amish Country in a unique way.
Operating seasonally from May through October, Amish Country Riding Stables is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM. The seasonal nature of the attraction allows visitors to experience the changing beauty of the countryside throughout the warmer months. As this is a weather-dependent activity, it’s recommended that interested parties call ahead to make reservations and confirm availability. The stables’ commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring Ohio’s Amish Country.
Baltic Meats: This local butcher shop is known for its high-quality meats and traditional Amish-style products.
Baltic Meats, located in Baltic, Ohio, is a local butcher shop renowned for its high-quality meats and homemade sausages. The establishment offers a wide variety of fresh cuts and custom processing services, catering to both individual customers and food manufacturing businesses. Their product range includes an impressive selection of beef, pork, and chicken cuts, as well as specialty items like offal, feet, tails, and various types of fat.
What sets Baltic Meats apart is their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The shop features a small deli in the back, which locals consider a hidden gem. Their reputation for excellence extends beyond their retail offerings, as they also serve as a wholesale supplier of meat products. Baltic Meats sources its products from trusted suppliers across the European Union, ensuring that all their meats meet high food safety standards and are certified by relevant state authorities. This dedication to quality and variety has made Baltic Meats a go-to destination for meat enthusiasts and culinary professionals alike.
The Farm at Walnut Creek: While not entirely hidden, many tourists miss out on the behind-the-scenes look at Amish farm life that this working farm offers. My family loves this place and has visited a few times.
The Farm at Walnut Creek, located in Ohio’s Amish Country, is a unique attraction that offers visitors an extraordinary blend of exotic wildlife and traditional Amish farm life. With over 500 animals from six continents, including giraffes, camels, zebras, and kangaroos, as well as more familiar farm animals, the farm provides an unparalleled opportunity for animal encounters. Visitors can hand-feed these diverse creatures from the comfort of their own vehicles or during a horse-drawn wagon ride, creating memorable experiences for people of all ages.
Beyond its impressive animal collection, The Farm at Walnut Creek is a genuine working Amish farm, offering guests a glimpse into traditional rural life. Depending on the season, visitors may observe various farming activities such as plowing, planting, harvesting, and other daily chores. The farm also features two authentic non-electric farmhouses where guests can witness Amish folks engaged in activities like canning, quilting, and baking, providing a fascinating look into a simpler way of life.
Open seasonally from April to October, The Farm at Walnut Creek offers more than just animal encounters and cultural experiences. Visitors can purchase fresh produce from the farm stand, enjoy picnic areas, and explore playgrounds. The farm hosts special events throughout the year, including a popular Fall Festival in October and a live nativity called “The Journey to Bethlehem” in December. Its convenient location near other Amish Country attractions in Walnut Creek, Berlin, Sugarcreek, and Mt. Hope makes it an ideal stop for tourists exploring the region’s beautiful scenery and unique culture.
Scenic drives: Many visitors focus on the towns and shops, but driving through the countryside offers beautiful views and a peaceful setting that shouldn’t be missed.
- The Amish Country Byway: This 160-mile route through Holmes County, Ohio is less traveled than some of the main tourist areas. It winds through towns like Wilmot, Walnut Creek, Berlin, Millersburg, Killbuck, Loudonville, and Brinkhaven, offering views of rolling hills, farmlands, and dense forests.
- State Roads 39 and 62 in Ohio: These routes take you through some of the most prominent Amish communities, passing through quaint towns like Berlin, Millersburg, and Wilmot. You’ll see Amish farmlands, vast fields, and rolling hills along the way.
- The Holmes County Trail: While not a drive, this trail offers a unique perspective on the area. It’s used by hikers, bicyclists, and even Amish buggies, providing a more intimate experience of the landscape.
Remember, part of the charm of Amish Country lies in discovering these hidden treasures. Taking the time to explore off the beaten path can lead to unique and memorable experiences.
